Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Before you continue onward, there are several things you should take note of.

For one thing, this story will contain several species that me and my friend have developed together and do not exist in Star Wars. I would strongly recommend going to the fic labeled Paxxie’s Guide to Shadows of the Republic on my profile, which I have written to explain the appearances, culture, and abilities of these races. Given they will be heavily featured throughout the story, it’ll make things easier to understand if you read this first. If you choose not to, though, I do not want to hear complaints of it being confusing, you have been warned.

Several characters from the original Star Wars canon have had massive overhauls in personality and some of them have even had their species changed. (Anakin and Padme’s relationship is actually healthy, let's goooo!) The most obvious and probably important part of the cast that this has happened to is the clones themselves, as they’ve been changed into a hybrid of Ilfirin and Kashgar, a couple of the species my friend and I created. Additionally, several Star Wars characters have been cut from the cast for varying reasons.

Yoda has been cut, for many reasons, but the main one being he was too difficult to write. A fair number of supporting bounty hunters or one off characters have been cut, and a few of the other Jedi Council members who didn’t make enough appearances or have enough personality to be relevant. However, this makes room for people like Plo Koon and Kit Fisto who really deserved much more screen time than they got.

Which brings me to another point, with that being that this is not a Jedi bashing fic, and I don’t want to hear it. There’s plenty of other places for it, and this is not one of them.

Over time, I will be incorporating other fandoms into the story as well, namely Transformers and The Avengers, but they will be adjusted and rewritten to fit into the Star Wars universe. There have been some alterations to the Star Wars canon as well aside from just the character overhauls, with some modifications to the Jedi Code and such.

With all that out of the way, this has been a long time in development, so I hope you enjoy it.

- PaxxieLovesDinosaurs

Chapter Text

“Are you ready, Aurora?” Kezu asked, the yellow-green skinned Mirialan waiting for her Padawan to finish packing her bag. The child looked up at her, a small frown on her face.

“I guess so.” Aurora answered reluctantly, as she placed the last couple items in. “I’m nervous.”

“That is natural, but despite his admittedly intimidating nature, Master Windu will take very good care of you.” Kezu acknowledged calmly. “As though you are his own Padawan.”

“Will it be for very long?”

Kezu hummed a bit, carefully picking her answer to that. “I don’t know quite how long it’ll be, Aurora.” She admitted thoughtfully. “All we can do is take every day as it comes, and trust in the Force that everything plays out in the best way possible.”

Aurora seemed to mull that over, a thoughtful look on her young face, before looking up at Kezu again. “I’ll miss you.”

Kezu knelt down, grasping Aurora’s shoulders gently. “You can always reach out either via comms or through the Force if you need guidance, Padawan.” She murmured softly. “We’ll still see each other, just not as often, and this is a great opportunity for you to develop further as a Jedi.”

Determination brightened Aurora’s eyes as she nodded. “I’ll make you proud.” She promised earnestly. Kezu smiled.

“I know you will. You always do.” She said as she let go of Aurora’s shoulders, standing again.

“I’m ready now.” Aurora declared, picking up her bag and following Kezu out of the room. The two of them made their way through the Temple, soon reaching the landing bay where a shuttle was waiting, a clone pilot standing beside it.

“Ready to go, General?” The pilot addressed Kezu, standing stiffly at attention.

“We are.” Kezu confirmed calmly, the pilot then turning and leading them onboard. Kezu nudged Aurora towards one of the seats. “Buckle yourself in, Padawan.” She instructed after pressing the button to lift the ramp, taking a seat herself as Aurora followed her instructions. Kezu placed her bag between her feet, buckling herself in as well as she addressed the pilot.

“May I ask your name?”

There was a split second of silence as the clone seemed to internally debate his answer to that before speaking. “It’s Kava, General.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Kava.”

“You too, General. We should reach the rendezvous with the 187th Legion in just under two hours.”

With a nod, Kezu turned her attention back to Aurora. “I do believe, Padawan, that Master Windu’s Padawan’s family situation is like yours.” She noted. “That is something you will both have in common. Her name is Naida Bluefin, from what I recall.”

“Oh, okay.” Aurora smiled. “Is she my age?”

“Roughly so, I believe.”

“Maybe we’ll be friends, then!”

“Let’s hope so.” Kezu agreed. “Try to get to know the troopers as well.”

“Okay, Master.” Aurora nodded.

After a few hours of talking, the shuttle landed, the two Jedi getting up and walking down the ramp, where a tall, dark skinned Jedi was waiting for them.

“Master Windu.” Kezu murmured politely when they reached him.

“Knight Adama.” Windu nodded in response. “Always good to see you.”

“This is my Padawan, Aurora Pax.” Kezu tilted her head down towards Aurora, squeezing the girl’s shoulder gently.

“Hi.” Aurora piped up shyly, still rather nervous as she looked up at the stern faced Master.

“Hello!” A more energetic voice chirped, a small, blue haired girl bouncing up to them, followed by a clone commander, silver eyes landing on Aurora. “Sorry I’m late, Master Windu!” The Jedi Master merely shook his head before gesturing to the other two.

“These are Knight Adama and Padawan Aurora Pax, Naida.”

“It’s nice to meet you!” Naida stuck her hand out to Aurora. “That’s Commander Ponds!” She added, looking up at the massive clone.

“It’s nice to meet you too!” Aurora answered enthusiastically, easily matching the other girl’s energy as she shook her hand, glancing up at Commander Ponds curiously before she was tugged away by Naida.

“I’ll show you around!”

“Oh- bye Master!” Aurora managed to call over her shoulder before being dragged off by the other Padawan, leaving the adults behind. Kezu’s lips twitched slightly, amusement in her eyes.

“She’ll need some time to settle in, but I’m certain she’ll be a good fit here, Master Windu.”

“Of course. We’ll look out for her.” Windu promised with a nod. “I intend to keep them both out of the action as much as possible.”

“Good. I’m afraid a frontline medical station is no place for a child her age, and as much as I would like for her to not be involved in this at all…” Kezu pursed her lips.

“I know, none of us are happy about it.” Windu agreed. “But we must work with the circumstances we’re landed in, and she’ll be safe enough for now. If that should change, we will find another solution.”

“We should get going, General Adama, if we’re going to stay on schedule.” Kava spoke up, standing at the base of the shuttle ramp.

“Of course, I’m coming.” Kezu nodded. “May the Force be with you, Master Windu.”

“You as well, Knight Adama.”

___________________

“So, these are the rooms where the troopers sleep!” Naida declared as she tugged Aurora down the hall, showing the other twelve year old around, stopping in the doorway of one of the open bunkrooms. “The rest of the rooms in this hallway are mostly the same, so onto the next one we go!”

Aurora giggled a little bit, hurrying after Naida as she was pulled along. “There’s the ‘fresher.” Naida pointed to it as they passed. “And the rest of the rooms down this hall are meeting rooms.”

“Why do we need so many?” Aurora wondered, taking a peek into a couple of the opened ones. They were pretty much all the same, nothing interesting, and she couldn’t imagine there could possibly be more than two or three meetings going at once, right?

“Ask the people who designed the warships.” Naida giggled as they continued down the next hallway.

“What else is there?”

“There’s the rec room, which is pretty big.” Naida answered. “Then the medbay, weapons room, and the command deck. I’m not allowed in the weapons room, so you won’t be either, but there’s also the docking bay, where you came in.”

“Is there anything cool in the rec room?”

“Not really… you can get hot drinks!” Naida paused. “Which is really only coffee, and that stuff tastes awful.”

“Oh, yuck.” Aurora wrinkled her nose. “I dunno how the grownups drink that.”

“I’ve brought some stuff from the Temple, games and such, so we can do those if we get bored. And Naneth* would always be happy to send us new ones if we run out.” Naida added.

Aurora nodded. “I brought some board games too, and I’ve got some drawing stuff and coloring books.”

“I’ll take you down to the flight deck.” Naida decided. “We could go to medbay, but the medics are kind of snappy right now. No CMO was assigned here, so one of the normal troopers has to take over that position and they haven’t decided who it is yet.”

“That’s not good.” Aurora frowned. “Master Kezu was teaching me to be a healer, can I help?”

“You’ll have to ask, but you should probably wait until later.”

“Okay.” Aurora agreed, following Naida along back to the flight deck, the two of them stopping to the side of the entryway and looking around, trying to spot a group of clones that weren’t busy. Their arrival was soon noticed by one of the clones working on the starfighters, who pointed it out to his companion.

There’s the newest Commander. He remarked softly through his bond with his brother, keeping an eye on the fighter’s fuel gauge. His brother looked up, following his gaze and grunting.

“Another hatchling in the danger zone, don’t know why they can’t stay back where it’s safe.”

Hatchlings don’t have much sense at that age. The first clone answered, believing him to be referring to the flight deck. They might be bored.

“Not here, Bor, I mean in general. The war. They shouldn’t be sending hatchlings into a war zone.”

‘Bor’ shrugged a shoulder slightly, holding the tube steady as fuel pumped through it. They shouldn’t, but at least the General won’t let them out actually onto the battlefield. The second clone grumbled under his breath again, clearly not satisfied by that but unable to come up with any further arguments. *Nacre, switch that off!* ‘Bor’ told the clone by the fuel station once the tank was full, disconnecting the tube once that was done. As he put it away, the little girl skipped up to them, waving.

“Hi!”

Pausing, the Commander looked down at her, cocking his head to the side as he signed an answer. 'Hello.'

“I’m Aurora Pax.” She introduced herself cheerfully. “What’s your name?”

Faint humor brightened the Commander’s eyes as the name registered. 'I’m Borealis.'

Instantly, Aurora’s face lit up, the child giggling. “Our names match!”

'They do.' Borealis agreed with a small smile.

“Are you a pilot?”

'I am.' Borealis confirmed as his twin came back over to them.

“I wanna learn to fly.” Aurora declared, seemingly not noticing the rather sour expression of the other clone as she immediately turned to introduce herself. “Hi, I’m Aurora!”

“Commander Viper.”

'He’s my twin.' Borealis explained, nudging Viper pointedly. 'He can be a bit of a grump sometimes. It’s his nature.' Viper snorted at that statement, but didn’t argue the point.

“It’s nice to meet you too!” Aurora declared enthusiastically.

'How are you finding the warship so far?' Borealis asked her.

“It’s really big. Naida’s been showing me around- do you know why there’s so many meeting rooms?”

'Natborns like having it looking like there is a lot of productivity going on, I suppose.'

“Seems like a silly way to use the space.”

Borealis nodded in agreement. 'Is there anywhere on the ship you haven’t been?'

“Medbay. Naida said things are kinda tense up there.”

'Yeah, they are.' Borealis hummed. 'Medics aren’t happy there wasn’t an assigned CMO.'

“Why wasn’t there?”

“Someone fu-” Viper started, immediately being smacked sharply by Borealis.

'A mistake was made.' He told Aurora, as Viper rubbed his arm crankily.

“That seems like a pretty big mistake to make.” Aurora scrunched up her face in confusion.

'It does.' Borealis agreed, leading Aurora out of the flight deck. 'Have you met Commanders Ponds, Kukui, Neyo, and Kitsune?'

Aurora’s gaze lifted towards the ceiling in thought for a minute. "I think Ponds was the one who met us at the landing pad, but I didn’t really meet him, Naida took me to explore right away."

'Me and Viper will take you to meet him, then.' Borealis nodded.

“We will?” Viper raised an eyebrow at being volunteered, immediately being elbowed by his brother, pointedly. “Fine, we will.”

After walking a few corridors, Aurora squeaked as Borealis pulled her back suddenly, stopping her from bumping straight into a human admiral who seemed to have come out of nowhere. “Sorry!”

The admiral’s gaze swept over the child, seeming to focus on the glint of exposed metal on the side of her neck, partially covered by her braids; his expression growing more disdainful. “Watch where you are going.” He grunted.

'Admiral, she apologized.' Borealis pointed out, nudging Aurora to move behind him, which she did without protest. The admiral’s gaze switched to Borealis, darkening further.

“It should not have happened in the first place.” He scorned, the disdainful tone directed at Borealis provoking a low growl out of Viper. Borealis threw him a warning look, then turned his attention back to the admiral.

'Accidents do happen, and she’s just a hatchling.'

“‘Hatchling?’” The admiral repeated with a sneer. “Don’t go calling her that, Commander, she’s not one of yours.”

“What are you doing?” Another voice interrupted before Borealis or Viper could respond to this, Naida standing behind the admiral with another clone trooper behind her.

“Nothing, Commander.” The Admiral’s tone changed instantly, as if a switch had been flipped.

“Don’t be rude to them.” Naida glared up at him sternly.

“I wasn’t.”

“I heard you.” Naida protested immediately. “Do it again, and I’ll tell Master Windu.”

“Oh, it was merely a misunderstanding.” The admiral lied, not impressing Naida.

“I know when you’re lying to me.” She huffed, staring up at him. “Don't do that again.”

“Of course, Commander.”

“You ok?” Naida asked the three, once the Admiral had moved on. Aurora nodded, peeking out from behind Borealis again.

“He’s one of those ones, I guess.”

“Tell Master Windu if anyone gives you trouble.” Naida told her seriously.

“I will.” Aurora promised. “Nothing I’m not used to, though.”

“This is Uni!” Naida introduced the clone who had accompanied her, grabbing onto his hand again, changing the subject before either of the Commanders had time to focus on Aurora’s rather alarming statement.

“Hello.” Uni smiled at Aurora, nodding to the other two clones. “Commanders.”

“Let’s keep going, I wanna meet the others.” Aurora declared, the two groups resuming moving down the hall, leaving the tense encounter behind.

“Commander Kitsune!” Uni called as they came around the corner, spotting the female Commander up ahead, holding a box of files. “Come meet the new Padawan!”

Turning around at the call of her name, Kitsune cocked her head to the side, studying the group before making her way over briskly. Uni gestured to her, looking down at Aurora. “Aurora, this is Commander Kitsune.”

“Hi!” Aurora smiled brightly, waving.

“Hello. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Commander.” Kitsune nodded, looking down at the girl with a faint smile before looking to the others. “Has she been to medbay? If not, I’d suggest you take her now. With how on edge the medics are, you wouldn’t want them hunting you down.”

“She hasn’t yet.” Viper answered. “We’ll take her over.”

Kitsune nodded, looking down at the newest baby Jedi again. “I hope you have a good time here, Commander.. Pax.”

“Thank you!”

When Aurora and the two Commanders reached the medbay, shouting could be heard, furious arguments going on with the sounds of things being angrily put away. Aurora looked up at them with wide eyes.

“Should we come back later-?”

'No, it’ll just make them angrier if we delay.' Borealis sighed, holding the hatchling’s shoulder as he stepped into medbay, guiding her along. Viper cleared his throat loudly, grinding the arguing to a halt.

“What is it?” One medic demanded sharply, pushing past her taller brothers.

“This is Aurora Pax, the Padawan that General Windu’s taken in.” Viper explained. “We were told to bring her in for a checkup.”

After a couple of seconds of looking around at each other indecisively, the medic who had spoken first grunted. “I’ll handle it.” She declared, gesturing for Aurora to follow her over to one of the exam beds. “I’m Syringe.” She told the girl after retrieving a datapad, pulling up her file.

“Hi, Syringe.” Aurora chirped cheerfully, swinging her legs back and forth as she sat on the edge of the bed.

“You’re…” Syringe glanced down at the file. “A mix of Togruta, Ebbirenan and Koraduran Ilfirin, correct?”

“That’s right.”

Running down the list of typical questions, Syringe looked at the next bit of information on the file. “It says that you have brain cybernetics?”

Aurora nodded. “And some other internal stuff. There was a big fire at the Temple when I was little, and I got caught in the middle of it. They had to repair a lot of the damage that way.”

Resisting the instinctual urge to retort that the Commander was still very much ‘little’, Syringe typed that down. “When was the last time you had them checked?”

“Couple days ago. Master Kezu had me get them checked before I came here.”

“How often do they need to be checked?”

“Every month or so. The doctors back home say that because I’m still growing so fast we need to keep a closer eye on them so that nothing gets broken or displaced as my body develops.”

Syringe frowned a bit as the girl chattered on, pointing out the access panel on her neck and talking about the upgrades that were planned for later on, silently noting to herself that they’d have to find someone who specialized more in cybernetics. When Aurora’s chatter died down, Syringe managed a small smile for her. “I just need to check your height and weight, now.”

“Okay!” Aurora agreed cheerfully, hopping down from the bed and following her. “Do you think I’ll be taller?”

“You may be.” Syringe nodded, adjusting the measurements on Aurora’s file once they were checked. “I believe that’s all for the checkup.”

“Okay. I have a question for you, though.” Aurora looked up at her. “Master Kezu was teaching me to be a healer, is there anything I can help with?”

Syringe hummed a bit, considering that. “You can help with minor injuries.” She told her after a moment. “And learning to do datawork, fill out charts and such. That’ll be important later. If there’s anything you can do, we’ll come get you.”

“Okay, thank you!” Aurora lit up, waving as she ran back to Viper and Borealis. “I’ll see you later!”

“Why are baby Jedi so cute?” Bandage wondered, once the three had left.

“They’re hatchlings, all hatchlings are cute.” Suture shrugged.

“Anyway- what the fuck?!” Syringe demanded, glaring at Bandaid. “Why would you put those supplies all the way over there?!”

“Why wouldn’t I?!” Bandaid immediately protested, the arguing resuming once more as the two Commanders and Padawan walked away from the medbay.

“Wonder how long that’ll go on for before something gets sorted out.” Viper noted dryly.

'Which Commander do you think will snap first?' Borealis asked. 'Kukui, Ponds, or Neyo?'

“My bet’s on Neyo, Ponds has too much else to worry about.”

'True. And Kukui would probably end up temporarily killing them all if she ends up snapping.'

“Exactly.” Viper shook his head ruefully. “Anyway, I have work to get back to. You have fun with the hatchling.”

'I’ll see you later.' Borealis agreed, Aurora waving after him as Viper walked off.

___________

When Viper returned to the bunkroom that night, he opened the door to find his brother already asleep in his nest, a quiet snore drawing Viper’s attention to the tiny girl curled up beneath Borealis’s wing. Viper shook his head with a slight sigh, allowing a bit of a smile to creep onto his face before going over to his own nest.

“Goodnight, Bor.”

Chapter Text

Kezu followed Kava into the interior of the medical station as they left the shuttle, studying the new surroundings as he spoke to her. “Barracks are this way, General, there’s been a room set aside for you.”

“Thank you.” Kezu nodded politely, still looking around. An odd feeling settled in her chest as she took in the white walls, ideally perfect for a medical station, she knew, but not what she was used to and making her already miss the Temple.

“You can get settled in, and General Blackburn will come meet you when you’re ready to finish showing you around. I’ve gotta get back and tend to my ship.” Kava told her once they reached her new room.

“Thank you.” Kezu repeated as she stepped inside, locking the door behind herself and taking a seat on the bed, beginning to meditate. After a little while of this, Kezu was shaken out of the peaceful trance by a voice reaching out to her through the Force.

Knight Adama? Sorry to bother, but I’m ready for you whenever you want to take the tour.

Kezu shook herself, brushing her clothes off as she stood, making her way towards the door and unbolting it, looking up at the tall, Ilfirin man who had been waiting for her. “I’m ready to take it now, Master Blackburn.”

Kieran Blackburn smiled, the expression softening his sharp, stern looking features considerably. “Right, just follow me then. Everything’s pretty self explanatory for the most part.” He told her before the two of them headed off down the hall.

“There aren’t a lot of patients as of yet, but I expect that’ll change as things pick up on the front. As it stands, we’re pretty well supplied.” Kieran told her. “But knowing the Senate, it’ll likely be a battle to keep it that way.”

“Most likely, yes.” Kezu nodded understandingly.

“Patient recovery rooms are down this hall.” Kieran gestured to the closed doors as they passed them. “They’re quite spartan at the moment, but we’re working on making it a little more comfortable before we’re hit with patients who actually need them.”

The two of them continued on, soon entering a large room full of currently empty beds and emergency equipment. “The operating rooms are upstairs, and this is our triage center.”

“This will be a very busy room, eventually.” Kezu remarked quietly, looking around and taking note of where everything was located.

“It will.” Kieran agreed. “My office is attached onto here so I can run back and forth easily. There’s another vacant one you can set up in as well, and Commander Daikon’s is on the other side.”

Kezu nodded in acknowledgement, continuing to study the layout of the center as Kieran hummed. “What else… ah, station operations is upstairs as well, and we have supply rooms on every level.”

“The dining hall?” Kezu asked.

“This way.” Kieran nodded, leading her out through the other side of the triage center. “I believe some of the team are there currently anyway, it’ll be good for you to meet them.”

When they reached the dining hall, a few tables were filled with Kashgar, all talking as they ate, a mix of medics and troopers with shoulder pauldrons on. One tiny, female medic nudged one of the larger troopers as Kieran and Kezu approached, drawing his attention to them.

“Hello all.” Kieran greeted them. “This is Kezu Adama, she’s going to be working with us as well.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you all.” Kezu nodded to them politely.

“You too, General.” One of the clones nodded, standing. “I’m Commander Daikon, apologies for not meeting you sooner.”

“It’s no trouble, Commander Daikon.” Kezu shook her head, the other clones offering her similar polite greetings but not much else, seeming rather reserved still. After a couple minutes the two Jedi left, leaving the clones to finish their meal in peace.

“They’re a good lot.” Kieran remarked as they left. “All hardworking, and good medics from what I’ve seen thus far. But they all seem rather scared of me, for some reason. I can’t imagine why.”

That remark got Kezu to crack a small smile, giggling quietly.

“What?”

“With no offense intended, Master Blackburn, you don’t exactly look like the friendliest person.”

Kieran raised an eyebrow slightly before catching a glimpse of his own reflection as they passed a window. “Oh. Yes, I suppose that would affect first impressions somewhat.”

“I’m sure they’ll learn not to judge your personality on how you look soon.” Kezu added.

“Of course.” Kieran chuckled slightly, before looking over his shoulder as an ARC trooper called his name.”Yes- Evo, was it? What can I do for you?”

Straightening up as he stopped, Evo stood at attention as he answered Kieran. “I’ve been temporarily assigned to Coruscant, sir, to the Guard.”

“Odd.” Kieran frowned slightly. “I wasn’t informed of any pending transfers… do you have the paperwork with you, do you mind if I look it over?” Evo held out a datapad in response, and waited patiently while the Jedi looked it over.

“Well… I suppose we’ll manage in the meantime, then.” Kieran handed it back, none too happy with this arrangement. “I’ll have to see if they intend to send us someone to cover your absence.”

Evo nodded. “I’ll ask how long this assignment is when I arrive, General.”

“Very good.” Kieran nodded back. “Thank you for letting me know.”
__________________

Stepping off the shuttle, Evo saluted when he reached the waiting Guard Commander. “Commander Fox.”

“Trooper Evo.” Fox nodded sharply. “If you follow me I’ll show you through the base.”

“Thank you, sir.” Evo answered, following after the Commander. Partway through the tour, he spoke up again carefully. “Commander, how long am I to be assigned here? I’m sure it was an oversight, but there was no mention of how long this assignment would be.”

“Yes, that is an unfortunate oversight.” Fox’s frown could be heard in his voice. “We were told the transfer would be permanent, as well as any other transfers we receive in the near future.”

Evo thought about that, helmet cocking to the side as he frowned, trying to recall if there was any indication the transfer would be permanent. “I’ll double check the paperwork.” Fox added as they continued with the tour. Evo’s mind remained on the seemingly oversight, wondering if that was truly all it was and, if so, what his General would say when told. But that was for the future, and he supposed they would just have to wait and see.

A day or two later, Evo was stationed along one of the hallways of the massive Senate building, keeping an eye on a group of chatting Senators, looking up at seeing Fox approaching and nodding to him, wondering if the confusion of his assignment had been figured out as the Commander stopped beside him.

“The transfer was indeed supposed to be permanent.” Fox told him. “You and your General weren’t informed of this at all?”

“No.” Evo shook his head. “General Blackburn wasn’t even aware there was an assignment or transfer until I informed him of it before leaving.”

“Odd.” Fox frowned beneath his helmet. “I’ll cover your post. I think you’d better reach out to him and see if he’ll get this sorted.”

“Yes sir.” Evo nodded, heading off to find an empty room to make the call.

“Yes?” Daikon’s form appeared on the hologram as he answered, after the comm had buzzed a few times. “Evo, what can I do for you?”

“We’ve got an issue, Commander Daikon.” Evo answered. “Apparently my assignment is meant to be permanent.”

“What? No!” Daikon immediately sounded angry. “We barely have enough defenses here as it is!”

“Can you tell General Blackburn so he can get this sorted out with the Senate?” Evo asked him. “Commander Fox had no clue I didn’t know it was apparently permanent until I asked how long I would be here.”

“Yes, I’ll let him know immediately.” Daikon agreed. “We can spare you temporarily, but as things pick up on the front we will need all the defensive power we can get. I’ll get back to you when I know more.”

“Thank you, Commander.” Evo agreed as the call ended, sighing to himself afterwards. “This is a mess.”
_______________

Daikon knocked on the door of Kieran’s office sharply, scowling as he entered at the Jedi’s call. Kieran looked up and set aside the datapad he’d been working with.

“Commander, what can I do for you?”

“I’ve got a call from Evo.” Daikon informed him. “Apparently, the reassignment is meant to be permanent.”

“What?” Kieran’s brow pinched in frustration. “That can’t be right!”

“That’s what he said Commander Fox was told, General.”

“Damn Senate.” Kieran pinched the bridge of his nose, taking a deep breath as he wondered in what world anyone believed having the Senators running the military at the top was a good idea. “Been dealing with their crap for fifty years and they still think they can pull one over on me. Right, thank you Commander, I’ll take care of this.”

“Yes, sir.” Daikon nodded, closing the door behind him as he left.

“Politicians.” Kieran muttered under his breath, releasing his frustration into the Force before typing in a comm number. “Right, Vaeril, I need a favor…”
______________

A slim, blue eyed woman strode down the hallway, her expression neutral aside from her lips pursing together slightly as she approached the Grand Convocation Chamber, settling down in the empty pod reserved for the Jedi when she reached it, followed by a clone Commander who remained standing close behind her. She waited, hands clasped in her lap, offering a small smile to a young Ilfirin woman who had just entered the Chamber, who returned the gesture as she entered the pod reserved for the Ebbirenan party.

Watching more Senators arrive, the Jedi looked up at her Commander, opening her mouth with intent to say something, but pausing as she noticed he was asleep. Carefully, she tugged him down to sit instead, so that he would not fall and hurt himself. Though this went unnoticed by the Senators and their entourages, the red and white armored trooper stationed by the entrance to the chamber did catch this, observing the Jedi silently.

Watching the sleeping Commander, Vaeril’s lips twisted into a frown, a faint suspicion creeping up on her before she shook her head, dismissing it, reasoning that surely she would have been told should her Commander have a problem beyond the odd quirk her troopers had described to her previously. Before she could dwell on the matter further, though, the Chancellor’s pod rose to the center of the chamber, marking the beginning of the session and banishing the thought from her mind as she turned her attention to that, waiting for her chance to speak.

The session dragged on for what felt like an eternity, most of the matters discussed being of little relevance or interest to the Jedi, until finally an opportunity opened up, and Vaeril pressed the button to move the pod forward and up. As it ascended, the Chancellor’s attention turned to her, and it could’ve been her imagination but the corners of his eyes seemed to pinch in annoyance upon seeing her, though there was no trace of it in his voice when he spoke.

“Master Jedi, what brings you to us today?”

Vaeril stood up straight, silver-blue eyes locking with the Chancellor’s as she answered him. “I am here on the behalf of Master Blackburn, on the matter of one of his ARC troopers, Evo. A few days ago, he was transferred to the Coruscant Guard on what was assumed to be a temporary assignment, but instead was told it was to be permanent. Trooper Evo will return to his previous post, due to Master Blackburn having not known of the ‘assignment’ until the trooper himself told him. This means that whoever arranged it did not go through the proper channels, and as such, has deprived the medical station of a trooper who is able to defend it, when such troopers are stretched thin there as is.”

“I see.” The Chancellor responded. “Merely an administrative oversight, I’m sure.”

“Master Blackburn would ask for it to be amended, so the assignment is only temporary.”

“Certainly. We would not want to deprive our medical stations of their valuable resources.”

Mentally shaking off the odd feeling the phrasing of that gave her, Vaeril nodded politely, directing the pod back to its place. “Thank you, Chancellor.”

Little else arose to be of any consequence to the Jedi, and Vaeril soon rose again, turning to the Commander. “Ready to go, Commander Sleepy?”

“Yes, General.” Sleepy nodded in response, following her out of the Chamber, offering the trooper at the entrance a slight nod as they passed. On their way down the corridor, to return to the Temple, Vaeril pulled out her commlink, pressing Kieran’s contact. The Jedi Master answered quickly, having apparently been waiting for her call.

“Vaeril? How’d it go?”

“The Chancellor said he’ll ensure the assignment is temporary, so you’ll get your trooper back.”

“Good.” Kieran sighed. “Thank you for sorting that out. Claimed it was an administrative error, I assume?”

“They did.” Vaeril confirmed. “Seems they are already getting daring with what they try here.”

“Looks that way. We’ll have to make sure they don’t get ahead of themselves, or who knows what tricks they’ll try to pull next.”

Chapter Text

Lohsa rested her head on Ahsoka’s shoulder, the two small, almost identical Togrutas curled together on the seat as their shuttle descended through the clouds. Ahsoka wrinkled her nose slightly, starting to hear the sounds of explosions and blaster fire down below, steadily getting closer. “That doesn’t sound very safe…”

“No…” Lohsa agreed hesitantly, looking towards their pilot. “Are you sure this is where we’re meant to go, Racket?”

“Positive.” Racket answered, though he didn’t sound absolutely certain anymore. “These are the coordinates we were given- you may want to hold on, little Commanders.”

Another explosion echoed, closer this time, and the two sisters clung to each other tightly. “The ride might get a little bumpy for a minute here, but it’ll be alright.” Racket reassured them calmly, the clone’s fingers tightening just slightly around the controls as the ship jostled. Steadily descending, the sound of metal crushing beneath them as they landed was heard, crushing a handful of battle droids that hadn’t quite moved out of the way fast enough. He shut down the engines and got up, crossing over to the two Padawans and tapping their shoulders gently. “Hey, you’re okay now, we’ve landed.”

The two clambered to their feet as Racket lowered the ramp, checking the area cautiously before gesturing for them to follow him down. Lohsa’s eyes got slightly bigger at the battlefield they’d just entered, glancing at Ahsoka nervously. The group only got a dozen feet away from the shuttle before Racket suddenly grabbed them both, pulling the two cubs against his chest as a massive explosion sent them flying, shielding the two from the brunt of it and landing on top of them with a heavy thud.

Ahsoka and Lohsa wriggled out from underneath him, Lohsa immediately whining at seeing the injuries the pilot had sustained, with him now being unconscious. Ahsoka looked rather ill as well, looking at her twin. “What do we do now?!”

“F-find Masters Kenobi and Skywalker?” Lohsa’s voice trembled, the two Padawans working together to lift Racket’s body off the ground via the Force. Ahsoka nodded shakily.

“Yeah. Y-yeah, I guess so.”

Once they’d gotten a little bit away from the destroyed shuttle, the two Togrutas were spotted by Captain Rex, who was currently scouting for weaknesses in the Separatists’ defenses. Immediately alarmed by the presence of two children in the heart of a battle zone, Rex abandoned his current task, going towards them instead. “What’re you two hatchlings doing out here?!”

“W-We were told this is where we were to meet Masters Skywalker and Kenobi.” Ahsoka explained shakily, flinching when the vibrations of another explosion reached her montrals.

“You’re the Padawans?” Rex realized, frowning more beneath his helmet. “Follow me, I’ll call them on the way- Jesse! Hardcase! Help move our brother!” He yelled at two of the troopers from his group.

“Will he be ok?” Lohsa piped up quietly as the two aforementioned troopers came over, lifting the wounded, unconscious pilot.

“Unfortunately, there’s really no way to know that yet. The medics will look him over when we get there.” Rex answered, taking the children’s hands. “Let’s get moving, I don’t like that they just dropped you two in the middle of a battle zone.”

Meanwhile, Anakin answered his commlink, the Garavian Jedi in the middle of dismantling droids. “What is it, Captain?”

“We’ve got a problem.” Rex growled. “Some genius decided to send your baby Jedi directly into the middle of the battle zone. We’re headed back towards you now, their pilot is severely injured.”

“What-?” Anakin’s ears flattened in alarm. “Ahsoka and Lohsa are here?!” He demanded, immediately catching Obi-Wan’s attention.

“Anakin, that better not have been what I thought I just heard.”

Looking up from the comm, Anakin scowled. “Someone made the decision to drop Ahsoka and Lohsa here.”

“Are they alright? Who the Force made that decision?!”

Anakin shook his head. “I don’t know who made the decision, and they’re alright, but the pilot who brought them is injured.”

“Where are they?”

“Rex is just escorting them over.”

“We’d better focus on clearing a path for them.” Obi-Wan frowned. “Give them a safe spot to retreat to- Commander!”

“Yes, sir?” Cody turned his attention to him. 

“The Padawans have been dropped off, and need a safe space for Captain Rex to escort them to. We need to clear a path and hold the line until they’re safe.”

“Aye, sir, but did I hear that correctly??” Cody questioned, staring at him in surprise. 

“You did.” 

“Understood, General.” He turned to the others. “You heard the orders, let’s clear a path for them!”

Rex soon managed to get the Padawans out of the line of fire and into the temporary command center, leaving the two with Jesse before returning to the field. A few minutes after Rex had left, another clone, from the 212th, appeared in the middle of the tent. 

“I’m Boil.” The new clone stated. “Commander Cody sent me to look after General Kenobi’s Padawan until the battle’s over.”

“This one yours, then.” Jesse answered, nodding to Lohsa, the little blue skinned Togruta curled up on his lap. Boil plucked her up gently, bouncing her slightly as she sniffled. 

“Hey, you’re okay now. You’re safe.”

By the time the battle was over, both twelve year olds were asleep, curled up against their respective Kashgar, clothes torn and dirty as the older two Jedi entered the tent. 

“Doesn’t look like they’re injured, Generals, but they’re pretty emotionally torn up.” Boil told them with a frown, cradling Lohsa carefully as she slept. Anakin’s ears flicked in concern, looking at Obi-Wan. 

“Who could have sent them here?”

“I don’t know, I certainly didn’t give the order.” Obi-Wan frowned. “I doubt Master Windu or anyone on the Council would do something so careless and foolish. It must have been someone in the Senate.”

Anakin blew out a breath, shaking his head. “We need to inform the Council of this.” He said, gesturing for the clones to stand. Obi-Wan nodded.

“Agreed. I’ll contact them immediately.”

“As for us, we need to pack up the warships in preparation to leave.” Anakin added, picking up the bags of the two Padawans, which had miraculously survived their perilous journey. 

“Yes, we’ll need to head to the nearest medical station. We have some resources onboard but a lot of our wounded are going to need more intensive care.” 

The group soon reached the warships, Boil heading onboard the 212th one with Lohsa. “Should we keep them together for now, sir?” Jesse asked, glancing down at Ahsoka. “Might upset them to wake up separated.”

“Good idea, Jesse.” Anakin nodded. “Stay with the 212th until we get everything sorted out.”

“Aye, sir.”

Boil sat beside the bed the two Togruta cubs were curled up on, keeping an eye on them and waiting for them to wake up. He’d figured they’d be hungry when they did, so he had sent Jesse to hunt something before the warships left the planet. Those ration packs weren’t worthy to be fed to a cockroach, let alone a Jedi hatchling. 

At some point, the two had started suckling on the ends of each others’ lekku, which Boil had been told was normal for Togrutas their age, and something they’d grow out of in the next couple years. It seemed to comfort them both, so Boil didn’t question it further. He looked up when he heard one of them stirring, smiling slightly when Lohsa looked up at him sleepily. 

“Hey, hatchling. Jesse’s gone to catch you something before we leave the planet.”

Lohsa nodded groggily, voice muffled by her twin’s lek when she spoke. “Where’s Master Kenobi?”

“He’s on the comm with the Council,. Trying to figure out who gave the order for you to be sent here when we were supposed to pick you up at the end of the campaign.”

“Chancellor.” Lohsa yawned, voice still muffled. Boil furrowed his brow, certain he must’ve misheard that. 

“What?”

“It was the Chancellor.”

“Why would he-” Boil cut himself off, frowning. “Alright, soon as Jesse gets back, I’ll go tell them.”

Jesse returned shortly after, just as Ahsoka was stirring, holding the body of some kind of small deer. “Finally managed to find something.” He complained, wings twitching in irritation. “Stupid droids scared off all the decent prey.”

Boil nodded in acknowledgement, getting to his feet. “Stay here and feed them, will you? I need to go tell the General that apparently the Chancellor sent them here, according to Lohsa.”

“Now why on Kanerth would he do that?” Jesse sounded baffled, but nodded. “I’ll stay. You two hungry?” He turned his attention to the two cubs, who both nodded as Boil left the room. “Right, let me get this cut up for you.”

Boil entered the meeting room, going over to where Obi-Wan was standing at the holoprojector. “General?”

“Yes, Boil, what is it?” Obi-Wan answered, looking up from the meeting he was in, Anakin and Windu both visible on the hologram. 

“Lohsa told me who sent her and Ahsoka to us, sir.” Boil explained. “She said apparently it was the Chancellor.”

“Now why the hell would he make a call like that without consulting us?!” Anakin immediately demanded, practically bristling. “They could have been killed!”

“Beats me, General Skywalker.” Boil shook his head. Obi-Wan sighed.

“Well, I suppose that answers our first question. Now we need to find out why in the heavens he thought this was a wise decision, and make sure he doesn’t pull a stunt like this again.”

“Agreed.” Windu frowned, shaking his head. “He can’t be allowed such authority over our Padawans, no matter if he controls the army at this time. I will meet with him at once.”

“We are en route to the nearest medical base to drop off our more severely injured.” Obi-Wan told them. “Please let me know what your meeting with the Chancellor brings.”

“I certainly will. May the Force be with you, Master Kenobi.”

Chapter Text

Scalpel trudged onto the command deck, holding a datapad containing a report on what was needed, the echoes of the other medics arguing still being heard throughout the ship as the doors slid open to let him through. Neyo looked up from his station, going over to meet the medic halfway. “Scalpel.”

Scalpel glanced down at the datapad, then cleared his throat slightly. “We need to get a new scanner, Commander.” 

“Broken already?” Neyo sounded bemused. “I was certain we replaced that a few weeks ago.”

Scalpel grimaced slightly at this, glancing down at his feet uncomfortably, which Neyo immediately picked up on. “Is there something you’re not telling me?”

“It was broken by Bandaid hitting it over Suture’s head.” Scalpel mumbled. Neyo narrowed his eyes.

“I hope you’re joking, Scalpel.”

Scalpel couldn’t quite make himself make eye contact with the Commander, wings ruffling in clear discomfort as he looked to the side. “Dear Kanerth, you’re serious.” Neyo growled, grasping Scalpel’s arm and starting to stalk out of the command deck. “This has gone on long enough. Come on!”

Neyo stalked down the hall to the medbay, dragging Scalpel after him, slamming through the doors and snarling loudly, immediately silencing the arguments inside as the medics turned their attention to the Commander.

“This nonsense needs to stop.” Neyo growled. “The cadets on Kamino are better behaved than you lot. I cannot have you damaging valuable medical equipment in the course of your petty feuds!”

Bandaid opened his mouth to argue, stopping as Neyo’s attention snapped to him.

“Whatever you’re going to say, reconsider it.”

Slowly, Bandaid shut his mouth again, as Neyo tugged Scalpel forward. “I am appointing Scalpel as CMO, seeing as he seems to be the only one of you who retained a brain cell past deployment.” He announced, causing Scalpel to startle slightly before the Commander turned his attention to him. “I will order the replacement scanner for you. But I better not be needing to get another one for a few months, at least -” He directed a glare at Bandaid and Suture. “-this time. And I will put in the necessary paperwork for your new position.”

“Yes, Commander.” Scalpel nodded quietly, as Bandaid and Suture looked away from each other. 

“And furthermore-” Neyo addressed the medics again. If any of you give Scalpel a single ounce of trouble, I will unleash Kukui on you all. Understood?”

“Yes sir!” The medics agreed quickly. 

A few minutes after Neyo had left, the medics’ attention turned to Aurora as the Padawan trotted into the medbay. “What’s the matter, little Commander?” Syringe asked her, immediately picking up on the child’s distress. 

“I’ve got a bad headache.” Aurora answered unhappily. “Borealis gave me a pill for it, but it’s been two hours now and it’s not working.”

Syringe frowned slightly, mind immediately jumping to the notes in Aurora’s file regarding her cybernetics. “..Normally the handheld scanner would be used, but it’s unavailable right now.” She answered slowly. “So we’ll have to do a full body scan to see what’s up.” Aurora nodded miserably, quietly trotting after the medic. 

Syringe lifted Aurora up onto the scanner pull out, gently pushing her to lay down and pushing her inside as Bandage started the scan. Once they’d gotten what they needed off of it, he shut it off, Syringe pulling out the bed again and lifting Aurora off it, setting her on her feet. “What’s the issue, Bandage?”

“Well… I’m not one hundred percent certain.” Bandage answered, squinting at the scan as he studied it. “But it looks like something’s going on with one of her cybernetics. Like it’s been just slightly displaced, maybe.”

“Well, f-” Syringe started, immediately being silenced by the others before she could complete that sentence in the hearing of their baby Jedi. She scowled a bit, shaking her head. “I’ll go inform the General.” 

“We’ll make her comfortable.” Suture agreed, plucking up Aurora gently. “Come on, little Commander, let’s go make you a nest.”

Looking down at the scan print, Syringe circled where the issue was before striding out of the medbay, heading straight to the command deck, where Neyo had returned to by now and was looking over a map with Ponds and Master Windu. “General?” She spoke up, getting his attention.

“Yes?”

“There is something up with one of Aurora’s cybernetics.” Syringe held out the print for the Jedi to examine. Windu frowned.

“Are you able to repair it?”

“No, General.” Syringe shook her head, Ponds breaking in to answer the inevitable follow up question.

“Considering our kind’s regenerative abilities, the Kaminoans felt cybernetics to be an obsolete matter for us.” The Commander explained. “Didn’t bother to train us on it beyond telling us it was a thing that existed.”

“Is there anyone who can treat it, General?” Syringe added.

“I can get someone.” Windu confirmed. “But arranging it may take a couple hours. Can you make her comfortable until then?”

“We can.” Syringe nodded, taking back the print.

“Good. Do so then, I’ll see about the arrangements. If you’ll excuse me, Commanders, we can resume this shortly.” Windu nodded to Ponds and Neyo, crossing over to the comms station as Syringe left the command deck. After thirty seconds of waiting, a female voice was heard leaving the comms station. 

“What can I help you with, Mace? Is Aurora alright?”

“That’s what I’m calling about.” Windu answered, not noticing the two Commanders startle at overhearing the use of his first name. “It’s nothing life threatening, but she’s having a minor issue with her cybernetics that is causing her some discomfort, and the trainers of our medics neglected to cover even the basics.”

“I’ll see if Doctor Ratchet Merkoh is available to help, he’s by far the expert on cybernetics.” The woman answered after a second of thought. “If he can’t, I’ll ask doctor Amalia Cadenza. She specializes in pediatric cybernetics specifically. I’ll get back to you soon on that.”

Windu nodded. “We will alter our course and head towards Cybertron, we should be able to get there in a couple hours from our current position.”

“It should only take me an hour to get back to you.” The woman agreed. “You should know who you’re picking up by then.” 

“Very well, thank you.”

Meanwhile, Syringe strode down the hallway towards the medbay, grabbing a random trooper by the arm as she passed and dragging him after her, ignoring his startled protest. “What’s your name?”

“Jazz. What gives??” The trooper yelped, stumbling after her.

“You’re needed for something.” Syringe answered cryptically, ignoring Jazz’s grumble of protest as she dragged him into medbay, pulling him over to the curtained off area. “Aurora?” She lowered her voice, poking her head past the curtain. Aurora looked up, curled into a ball with pillows and blankets piled around her. 

“Yeah?”

“This is Jazz. He’s volunteered to cuddle you.” Syringe shoved Jazz inside the curtained area. 

“Oh, is that what you dragged me over here for?” Jazz asked, scooping Aurora up gently without further protest.

“Be very quiet or I’ll neuter you.” Syringe warned, Jazz quickly nodding his understanding. “We’re picking someone up to help you, little Commander, just hang in there for a couple hours.”

“Okay.” Aurora agreed quietly, curling up in Jazz’s arms as Syringe pulled the curtains closed, returning to her workstation. 

An orange skinned Togruta man stood at the edge of the landing platform as the shuttle landed, sharp teal eyes tracking its movements, bending down to pick up his bag as the ramp lowered and Borealis appeared at the top of it. “Doctor Merkoh?”

“That’s right.” The Togruta nodded. Borealis nodded back slightly, gesturing for him to come onboard. 

“I’m here to take you to the warship that’s in orbit.”

“Let’s go, then.” Ratchet agreed, striding up the ramp and into the small ship. Borealis sat in the pilot’s seat again, starting up the engines as the doctor took a seat on the passengers’ side. Ratchet waited until they’d lifted off, letting the pilot concentrate, before speaking again. “I don’t think I got your name?”

“Commander Borealis.” The clone answered after a second. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“You as well, Commander.”

When the shuttle landed in the flight deck of the warship, Borealis ensured it was powered down before leading Ratchet down the ramp and into the ship. “I’ll take you to meet General Windu, and Commanders Ponds and Neyo.” He told him. “As well as Admiral Shiroke.”

“Lead the way, then.” Ratchet agreed, shouldering his bag. Borealis led Ratchet down the hallway, towards the command deck, pausing on the way there upon spotting the Admiral. 

“Admiral Shiroke?” He called, getting the human’s attention. 

“Yes, Commander?”

“This is Doctor Ratchet Merkoh.” Borealis introduced the Togruta, who nodded in acknowledgement. 

“Admiral.”

“I see.” The admiral’s tone was rather stiff, glancing down at Ratchet’s cybernetic hand with faint disdain. “You’d better show him to medbay, then, Commander.”

“I was planning on introducing him to the General and other Commanders first, Admiral.”

“Hm. They’re on the command deck.” Shiroke answered curtly, starting to leave without much further acknowledgement of Ratchet, who looked rather annoyed but not surprised.

“Apologies, Doctor Merkoh.” Borealis sighed quietly, looking at him. Ratchet shook his head.

“Not your fault. I’m used to it.”

“..That’s what the little Commander said as well.” Borealis frowned. “This is common?”

Ratchet nodded, absentmindedly pulling the sleeve of his coat more over his metallic wrist. “Been this way for centuries. Cybertron started out as a dumping ground for the Republic’s cyborgs, at the start. Was probably meant to turn into a mining center or something along those lines, it wasn’t ever really meant to evolve into a haven for us the way it did, now that the war’s over. The general attitude towards us away from there and a couple other places is unwelcoming at best.”

Borealis’s frown deepened slightly, mulling over that information as he led Ratchet into the command deck. “General? Doctor Ratchet is here.”

“Master Windu.” Ratchet nodded to him as the Jedi looked up. “Holding up alright?”

“I am, yes.” Windu confirmed. “It is a pleasure to see you again. These two are Commanders Ponds and Neyo.”

“Commanders.” Ratchet nodded. “I’m sure we’ll talk later, but I believe there’s a child in need of my attention currently.”

“The medbay is this way.” Borealis nodded as he led Ratchet out of the command deck. “You’ll be able to meet the medics once you’re done with the little Commander. If any of them give you trouble, tell Commander Neyo, not that they should.”

“I’d better get to work, then.” Ratchet nodded as they reached it. “Thank you, Commander.”

The group of medics looked over as the doors whizzed open, seeing the Togruta cyborg standing there. He nodded to them, setting his bag down at an empty workspace as he entered. “I’m Ratchet, I’m the cybernetics specialist.”

“I’m Syringe, I’m the CMO’s second in command.” Syringe nodded, much to the annoyance of the others. 

“We never decided that-” Suture tried to protest, immediately being interrupted. 

“I’m Scalpel’s twin, I’m second in command.” Syringe insisted, stirring further outrage. 

“You can’t just claim the position!” Bandaid argued. Ratchet cleared his throat, interrupting the bickering before it could go on any longer.

“Pardon my interruption, but I need to know where my patient is.”

Syringe scowled slightly at the interruption, eyeing Ratchet, but pointed to the curtained off bed. “Thank you.” He nodded, promptly heading over there, leaving them to resume what they had been doing previously. A while later, the Togruta stepped out again, going over to them. 

“She’s all fixed up.” Ratchet informed them. “I’ll teach you how to repair it for next time there’s an issue.”

“Thank you.” Bandage answered.

“I’ve just got a couple things to clarify with you all, then I’ll get out of your way.”

“What are they, then?” Suture asked, as Scalpel was tugged out of his office by Caster.

“I am primarily here to ensure Aurora’s wellbeing, as a favor to her parents. I will be staying until you all feel comfortable handling her cybernetics yourselves.” Ratchet explained. “I will help with other things here as well if you want or need me to, but I will not be participating in frontline missions as I am now, technically, a civilian.”

Scalpel thought that over, his voice quiet when he did speak. “We’ll welcome any advice you have for us.” He told Ratchet. “I’m Scalpel, the CMO.”

“Pleasure to meet you, Scalpel.” Ratchet nodded. “Just let me know wherever you want me, I’m willing to help with whatever is needed.”

Scalpel nodded quietly, glancing to the rest. “If they do anything that bothers you, just tell Commander Neyo.” He advised quietly. “Not that they should, I think, since you’re a guest.”

“Right, thank you. Is there anything else you need from me for now?”

“No, there isn’t.” Scalpel shook his head. “Other than maybe report to the General that the little Commander’s issue has been sorted out.”

“Right, I’ll get on that.” Ratchet nodded. “I will speak to you later, then.” He added before turning around, leaving the medbay for now. 

Chapter Text

“Ready or not, here I come!” Aurora declared as Windu strode onto the flight deck, the child running past him in search of Naida, presumably. A small giggle from behind a stack of crates confirmed this as Aurora raced right past, not noticing. “I’m gonna find you!” She declared, provoking another giggle from the other child. A second after that, one of the clones walked past, carrying a piece of equipment and bumping against the crates by mistake.

Attention temporarily diverted by someone asking him a question, Windu looked over his shoulder sharply when he heard a shriek behind him, immediately using the Force to throw the falling crates aside as Naida scrambled out of the way. “Naida!”

The Padawan skidded to a halt once clear, eyes wide and face slightly pale as Windu strode over to her quickly. “Are you alright?”

Naida nodded, looking up at her Master and hugging herself. “Aurora!” Windu called the other girl back. “I don’t think you two should play on the flight deck anymore. We don’t want a repeat of that when I’m not here to stop it.”

“But there’s nowhere else to play!” Naida protested, sounding disappointed, apparently over her near escape.

“You can play in the barracks and in the rec room.” Windu answered. “But the clones have work to do, they can’t always be supervising you. And you could’ve been seriously hurt just now, Naida. There are too many hazards.”

Looking disappointed still, Naida nodded reluctantly. Aurora tugged on her arm slightly. “Come on, Naida, let’s go play with our toys instead.” 

Windu sighed a bit as the two Padawans left quietly, simply relieved that neither of them got hurt, turning to make sure nothing vital had been damaged. A couple of clones were already gathering up the fallen crates, restacking and securing them fully this time. 

“General?” Borealis’s voice behind him prompted Windu to look over his shoulder again.

“Commander, what can I do for you?”

“Me and Viper have an idea for the little Commanders.” Borealis explained. “We could make a playroom in one of the meeting rooms.”

“I think that’s a good idea.” Windu agreed, barely needing to consider it. “We can spare one of the larger ones for it. You can get materials for it from the Temple when we get back to Coruscant.”

Borealis hauled up the box of spray paints, carrying it out of the large Temple supply room along with a few large bags of plastic balls, making his way along as he hummed quietly, being spotted by his twin further down the hall.

“Do you need any help with that, Bor?” Viper asked, breaking off mid conversation with Cody as Borealis approached them.

“I’m good.” Borealis shook his head. “Neyo does want more wood brought in, though.”

“I’ll grab that.” Viper agreed. Cody raised an eyebrow slightly.

“What’s all this for?” He asked.

“We’re making a playroom for Aurora and Naida.” Borealis answered. Cody hummed, nodding.

“Not a bad idea… Lohsa might benefit from something similar, thinking about it.”

Borealis’s comm buzzed before he could continue the conversation, using one of his tendrils to answer it since his hands were full. “Hello?”

“Borealis, where are you?” Neyo demanded. “We’re waiting on that paint.”

Grimacing, Borealis resumed walking along quickly. “I’m coming, I’m coming.”

Neyo was waiting for him impatiently when Borealis made it back to where the warship was docked, arms crossed. “There you are!” He exclaimed. “The others are nearly done with the structures, we need to paint everything so it’ll be dry in time.” After the other Commander had taken the paint, Borealis rolled his eyes slightly, following Neyo back onboard. 

Neyo led him into the large meeting room they’d commandeered for the project, one of the ones they barely ever used, a bunch of the others already in there working. “Borealis, why don’t you go help Nacre and Alpen finish off the ball pit?” He instructed before calling one of the other pilots over. “Bubbles! Get started on the door, would you? And the rest of you who aren’t already doing something, let’s get started on the walls. All goes well, we can have this project finished by the end of the day.”

“Where are we going?” Naida asked, sounding a bit confused as she and Aurora followed Ponds down the hall of the warship.

“We’ve got a surprise for you.” Ponds answered, leading them towards a brightly colored door that definitely hadn’t been there the last time they were onboard.

“Where’d that come from?” Naida blinked, looking at Aurora. The other girl shook her head.

“I dunno.” She answered. Ponds chuckled slightly, opening the door for them.

“Go have a look.”

The two Padawans peeked into the room curiously as Ponds stepped out of the way, their eyes immediately widening in surprise and excitement.

“There’s a slide!” Aurora gasped, pointing at it.

“And a ball pit!” Naida added. 

“And a sandbox!” Aurora sounded thrilled, looking up at Ponds. “You built this for us?”

Ponds nodded, chuckling again. “The men all pitched in, managed to pull it together over the weekend. Now you won’t have to play on the flight deck anymore.”

“Thank you!” Naida declared, both Padawans hugging the Commander tightly. Ponds patted their heads with a smile.

“Why don’t you two go try it out?”

Naida dashed into the playroom, the blue haired child immediately throwing herself into the ball pit with Aurora close on her heels, the two children immediately starting to throw the balls at each other with furious giggles. Ponds stood in the doorway and watched with a smile. “Good call, Borealis.” He murmured to himself.

“Right, with that out of the way…” Windu looked over the agenda for the day’s meeting to see what was next. “Knight Chi Trite has a report for us on her current assignment.” He said, reaching over to pull up the communication on the rather full cue of waiting calls. Pressing one of the calls, a hologram that was definitely not the Knight they needed to speak to appeared in the middle of the room. 

“Master Windu, can the Council comment on-” The obvious reporter was cut off mid sentence as Windu immediately ended the call. Even Jedi Masters only had so much patience, and Windu’s allotment for the media and politicians was wearing rather thin as of late.

“Been quite a lot of those calls recently, haven’t there?” Obi-Wan observed. 

“Too many.” Kit Fisto agreed. “Becoming rather a nuisance, isn’t it? I understand they’re just doing their jobs but we really don’t have time to deal with them.”

“I may have a solution in mind for this issue.” Windu glared at the communications panel. “But unfortunately I can’t implement it until later. This should be Knight Trite’s report.”

A few hours after the meeting had ended, Windu walked onto the command deck of the warship, approaching one of the clones working the communications panel and clearing his throat slightly to get his attention. The clone looked up, turning around in his seat slightly. “Can I help you, General?”

“I think you can, actually.” Windu answered. “What’s your name, trooper?”

“Holdup, General.”

“I’d like to speak to you about an assignment.” Windu told him. “With the changes the war has brought about, myself and the Council have found ourselves in need of someone to filter through communications for us. I was wondering if you would accept the assignment- it would keep you at the Temple full time, rather than traveling with the legion.”

Holdup hesitated, looking slightly uncertain as he thought the offer over. “You can take some time to consider it if you need to.” Windu added. “But I will need an answer either way soon.”

“Understood, General.”

That night, Holdup sat in his nest, wings twitching and ruffling as he pressed the number on his comm to call his twin and waiting. A moment later, the other clone’s hologram appeared over the small device. 

“Hey Holdup.” He greeted with a smile.

“Hey, Dispatch.” Holdup smiled back slightly. “How are you?”

“Oh, you know, same old. You?”

Holdup hummed slightly, thinking over how to phrase his answer before speaking. “General Windu offered me a permanent transfer to the Jedi Temple, to manage their communications as apparently the lines are getting very clogged up.”

“Sounds like a pretty good deal.” Dispatch remarked. “What’s holding you back?”

“We’ll see each other much less.” Holdup pointed out.

“Easily fixed.” Dispatch dismissed. “I’ll request a transfer to the Coruscant Guard- we’ll probably see each other more that way than we do now. You’d be silly to let this opportunity run away, Holdup.”

“I know, I know.” Holdup shook his head. “I just wasn’t sure.”

“Tell him you’ll accept, then! I’ll put in my request first thing.”

“Alright, Dispatch.”

Chapter Text

Whiplash exhaled quietly, looking to her sister as the two Kashgar watched the cadets down below. “Dear Kanerth.” The sergeant trainer mumbled, rubbing her face. “Are we sure there’s no bad history causing this problem, Meadow?”

“Nothing I’m aware of.” Meadow frowned. “But maybe we should check again.” 

“Rancor Battalion is coming to Kamino tomorrow, and the Commanders will no doubt want to see the progress of the cadets.” Whiplash rubbed her face again. “Can you imagine showing them that disgrace?”

Meadow groaned at the thought. “No, no… we have to do something to whip them into shape before then.”

“Why can’t they be more like the Bravo Squad?” Whiplash wondered. “ Those cadets get along perfectly, and complete everything exactly as they should.”

Meadow’s frown deepened, observing the cadets still. “Any ideas?”

“No. No, I have nothing.” Whiplash exhaled, her wings drooping. “What even is left to try?”

“I don’t know, but if we can’t whip them into shape somehow, they’ll never see deployment.” Meadow growled, bristling slightly. “Especially if the Longnecks witness this performance.”

“Gods, they’d have all killed themselves by now if this was a real battle.” Whiplash muttered, smacking the button to end the simulation. “They know the consequences of this kind of failure, why aren’t they working together?” Meadow simply growled in frustration, not really knowing what else to tell her sister. Whiplash disappeared, reappearing in front of the cadets as they scrambled to line up. 

“What on Kamino was that, cadets?” She demanded sharply, looking them over. To their credit, they looked rather ashamed of themselves now faced with their trainer, shifting uncomfortably. “Tomorrow is your last chance to succeed!” Whiplash sighed, shaking her head. “As much as I wish it wasn’t so, we know what’ll happen if you fail! You need to be at the top of your game tomorrow, Domino Squad!”

Meadow appeared alongside her sister. “Failing isn’t an option this time, cadets, not if you ever want to leave this place.” She added.

“Return to your bunks.” Whiplash instructed tiredly, after another glance at her sister.

“Yes, Sergeant.” The cadets muttered, filing past the two as they left the training grounds.

“One last chance.” Whiplash sighed, once they were gone. “Kanerth help us…”

The next day, Whiplash stood beside Meadow, arms folded behind her back as they both stood off to the side, watching the four Commanders come down the ramp of the ship that had just landed, their four squads of cadets all standing at attention. Meadow stepped forward, clearing her throat as one of the Commanders walked to the front.

“Cadets, we want you to meet Commander Colt of the Rancor Battalion.” She announced as Colt stopped in front of the assembled squadrons.

“I want you troopers to remember, we’re shoulder-to-shoulder on those frontlines. Brothers! And sometimes we may quarrel, but no matter what, we are united.” Colt instructed sternly. “Rule one: we fight together. So who's ready to step up first?” He walked forward, stopping in front of one of the groups. “Let’s start with the unit who ran the practice test in record time- ARC trooper time. Bravo Unit, step up!”

Let’s be thankful he hasn’t chosen the Dominoes. Whiplash remarked to her sister dryly through the bond. Maybe they’ll be passed over this time. 

Maybe. Give us a bit more time. Meadow agreed semi hopefully.

Once in the simulation room, the Commanders, General Shaak Ti, and a mix of clone and natborn trainers stood above the training grounds, along with, Whiplash noted with some despair, the Domino Squad. Apparently our hopes were for nothing. She sighed mentally to her twin as the simulation began for Bravo Squad, the group of cadets moving through it with ease. Whiplash managed a faint smile when they passed, cadet Kelpie having retrieved the ‘trophy’, finishing the course in record time once more, though her mind was still preoccupied with the Dominoes.

Maybe they’ll have listened this time. Meadow suggested half optimistically as the Domino Squad made their way down to the training area.

We’ll just have to hope. Whiplash agreed glumly. Meadow nodded faintly, watching like a hawk as the simulation began. The cadets started out strong, working together for once, making it a quarter of the way through before once again starting to argue amongst themselves, getting sloppier.

I can’t watch… Whiplash placed her head, covered by her helmet, in her hands. I thought they understood. Meadow squeezed her sister’s shoulder slightly, continuing to watch in despair. 

The door to the room slid open, Whiplash making her way inside briskly, helmet held under her arm. “General Ti?” She addressed the Togruta, interrupting Commander Colt mid sentence. Shaak looked up, tilting her head slightly.

“Yes, Sergeant Whiplash?”

“I would like to request that the Domino Squad be given a second attempt at taking and completing the simulation.” Whiplash requested, her calm tone belying her slightly pinched expression as she gripped her helmet tightly.

“Are you certain, Sergeant?” Shaak asked her. “It seemed to me that they are not ready.”

“I am.” Whiplash nodded. “I’m certain they’ll complete it if given a second chance.” They better, at least. She added mentally. With how I’m sticking out my neck for a bunch of cadets who have made practically no progress. 

Shaak hummed thoughtfully as she considered Whiplash’s request. “Very well.” She agreed. “They will receive one more chance.”

Twenty minutes later, Whiplash had set up another practice run, and now led the half asleep cadets into the training grounds. “Line up, cadets.” She ordered sharply, unaware of the Commanders observing up above.

“What’s going on?” Echo asked her, seeming slightly more awake than the others. Whiplash took a deep breath.

“You lot are disorganized, argumentative, and completely out of tune with each other.” She told the cadets bluntly. “You are somehow the worst cadets I’ve ever taught, with nothing ever sticking, and you have wasted every chance you have been given to prove you are ready to graduate, all by your own fault.”

“We could have done it this time if Echo hadn’t distracted us.” Hevy muttered, fuming.

“Me?! You’re the one who deviated from the plan!” Echo protested. Whiplash’s wings ruffled in frustration, though her expression remained outwardly neutral as she interrupted them harshly.

“ Enough. This is exactly what I mean. Somehow, I keep wasting my time trying to help you, when none of you seem to wish to help yourselves!” 

The cadets fell silent, shifting uncomfortably as a couple of them looked down at the floor. Whiplash held up a finger, closing her eyes as she took a deep breath to calm herself, before looking at them again. “Normally, yesterday’s test would have been the last opportunity for you. But as it stands, I have asked General Ti to give you one more try. You have one, final this time, last chance to complete it at 1200 hours tomorrow. And to see how well you can work together, I have decided to add some motivation to this practice session.” She pointed to a box suspended over the top of the structure. “See that?”

The cadets all nodded in confirmation as Whiplash continued. “There’s a hatchling in there. And once this starts, you have three minutes to save him. All of you. If you wake him up by being too loud, your time reduces by thirty seconds.”

“Three minutes?” Fives balked.

“It should not be an issue if you work together.” The cadets glanced at each other, reluctantly realizing they didn’t have any other choice. “The practice run begins in ten seconds. You better figure it out.” And with that, Whiplash disappeared, reappearing in the trainers box.

“What do we do?!” Hevy hissed at the others, though keeping quiet enough to not disturb the sleeping hatchling. Fives cleared his throat, straightening up.

“We stick together this time, and watch each others’ backs.” He instructed, raising the stun blaster as the simulation formed. “On my lead.”

“And quietly.” Echo added, looking apprehensively at the hanging box again before the cadets charged forward.

The next morning, Whiplash grunted tiredly as she was shaken awake, grunting tiredly as she batted Meadow’s hand away, her sister practically vibrating with impatience. 

“Whiplash! Wake up and tell me what happened last night!”

“Ugh…”

“Whiplash!”

“The fuck you want?” Whiplash grumbled sleepily, glaring at her sister out of the corner of her eye. 

“What happened with the Dominoes last night?!”

“Come back later.”

“Whiplash!”

“Get. Out.”

“Whiplash, come on, you’ve gotta tell me.” Meadow pleaded one more time, provoking a growl out of her sister. Kashgar were not morning creatures in the first place, and something in the clones’ development had amplified that trait extensively, resulting in their current predicament. “Oh, fine, but I’ll be back.” Meadow grumbled, disappearing from the room. Whiplash closed her eyes, curling back up and immediately dropping off to sleep again now that it was quiet.

A couple hours later, Meadow was lying in wait for her sister, immediately pouncing when she saw Whiplash leave the room. “Alright, you’re up, please tell me what’s going on.”

“Coffee first.” Whiplash mumbled in response, trudging towards the rec room where the coffee machine was.

“Come on , Whiplash, I’ve waited all morning!” Meadow protested, chasing after her. Finally, just as they entered the rec room, Whiplash stopped and turned around, immediately punching Meadow in the face before she could say anything further, wings arching in annoyance as she growled. “Dammit!” Meadow swore, stumbling back a few steps with a groan, rubbing her face. “..I suppose I deserved that, a little, but dear Kanerth! You’re mean in the morning!” She grumbled, now retreating to the other side of the room as Whiplash stalked over to the coffee machine.

Immediately starting on her coffee when it was done, not caring it was piping hot, Whiplash trudged over to her waiting twin, plopping down beside her. Meadow eyed her warily. 

“Are you awake yet, or are you still going to punch me?” 

Whiplash’s wings ruffled in response to this, a warning rumble leaving her as she sipped her coffee, immediately prompting Meadow to scoot further down the bench away from her, out of punching range. When Whiplash had finished her coffee, she set the cup down, seeming more awake and less sluggish as Meadow looked at her cautiously. 

“Better?” Whiplash nodded in confirmation, yawning. “Right. Now will you tell me what’s going on? I haven’t been able to get a straight answer out of anyone.”

“I asked General Ti to give Domino Squad a second try.” Whiplash answered.

“And?”

“They’re going to try it again at 1200. I stayed up late last night to force them through a practice run, with some extra motivation.”

“Oh?” Meadow raised an eyebrow. “What’s that?”

“Careful wording meant they believed one of the hatchlings would be in danger if they didn’t make it across in three minutes.”

Meadow hummed. “Did it work?”

“They got across in two.”

“I knew they could do it!” Meadow grinned, her wings puffing up in excitement. “You finally got through to them!”

Whiplash nodded, grinning as well. “I had to yell at them a bit before the exercise started.”

“Oh, if they can do that well on attempt two…” Meadow closed her eyes for a moment, a relieved laugh escaping her. “They might graduate after all!”

At 1200 hours, Commander Colt, the clone and natborn trainers, and Shaak were gathered on the platforms above, watching as the second test began for the Dominoes. Meadow’s hopes increased as the cadets made their way across the course, glancing at her sister. “They’re doing very well.” She murmured.

Whiplash nodded, attention focused on the cadets, though getting the sense that something was off as they approached the Citadel, spotting it after a second of intensely studying the cadets. “Where are their ascension cables?” She asked, straightening up.

“Must have gotten lost.” Bric, one of the natborn trainers, claimed nonchalantly. Whiplash paused, digesting that along with her own knowledge that for all their faults, the Dominoes had never lost a single piece of their equipment. Her wings arched, going to lunge at him.

“You sabotaged them?!” She snarled as Colt grabbed her shoulder, stopping her mid-lunge. 

“Sergeant, that’s not going to help.”

“We need to stop the simulation, this isn’t fair to the cadets!” Meadow insisted to Shaak. The Jedi was silent, expression inscrutable as she looked at Bric.

“Trainer Bric, you are not to do that again, or you will be dismissed with no pay.” She warned sternly, the trainer scoffing quietly and looking down at the cadets with obvious dislike. “As for stopping this, no.” Shaak decided. “I wish to see how they might possibly overcome it. However, I am impressed with the improvement their performance has shown so far, and should it happen that they fail on no fault of their own, they will be allocated a third chance.”

Meadow nodded in reluctant acceptance of the Jedi’s solution, glancing at her sister worriedly before turning her attention back to the cadets.

“Where are our ascension cables?!” Hive hissed, the cadets hiding from the lasers, having now reached the point where they should have been climbing. 

“They’re not on our belts!” Echo scowled. 

“What do we do now?!” Cutup demanded.

Mimic looked up, pointing after a second. “If I draw their fire, you can then take out the turrets, and use them to climb up!” He whispered, dashing out from behind their cover, now ensuring the lasers were focused on him.

“Brilliant!” Hevy waited a couple seconds before he and the rest dashed out, firing their stun blasters at the lasers and shorting them out before starting to climb up them. Hive reached the top first, dashing towards the pole and yanking it up, the light switching from red to green as the others caught up to her. The cadets cheered loudly in their triumph, embracing and celebrating.

“No other squadron has shown such ingenuity.” Shakk remarked approvingly, nodding to Whiplash and Meadow. “You have trained them well.”

“Thank you, General.” Whiplash smiled slightly, though it was hidden by her helmet. “We need to go apologize to them about the missing equipment.”

“Of course.” Shaak nodded. “And I reiterate, Trainer Bric, if this happens again you will be dismissed.”

Whiplash appeared in front of the celebrating cadets, clearing her throat as she removed her helmet. “You did an excellent job.” She told them with a small smile. “But I would like to apologize for the missing ascension cables. Bric took it upon himself to sabotage you, and has been reprimanded by the General for it.”

“He got in trouble for it?” Cutup sounded slightly startled. Whiplash tilted her head.

“Of course he did. Actively sabotaging you is not what a trainer’s job is.”

The cadets looked at each other, seeming to have a wordless conversation, before Hevy spoke up. “I suppose we should’ve reported some of what we’re about to tell you before, General, but he had us convinced that nothing would happen to him for it.”

“Has he done that before?” Whiplash straightened up slightly, tossing a glare back towards Bric. Hevy shook his head.

“No, not exactly.”

“He called Cutup to one of the supply rooms last night, Sergeant, before you came to get us.” Echo told her. “Tried to goad him into fighting him, called him a failure and such. Cutup picked his name out of it, but the beating slowed him down a bit during our practice test last night.”

After a second Whiplash, slowly, looked in Bric’s direction with murder in her eyes, disappearing from in front of the cadets and launching herself at the trainer as she reappeared on the platform, fist colliding with Bric’s face before anyone else could stop her. “You tried provoking one of my cadets into fighting you?!” She snarled, held back from attacking him again by Colt grabbing her.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Bric scoffed as Whiplash struggled against Colt’s grip. “Why in the world would I want to goad Cutup into fighting me?”

“Trainer Bric, the Sergeant never mentioned anyone by name.” Shaak’s tone was inscrutable, the Jedi standing behind him.

“Didn’t she?!” 

“No. She only mentioned ‘one of her cadets.’”

Bric scowled, seeming to realize he was caught. “So? What about it, then?”

“I would suggest you pack your things and leave Kamino. You are dismissed as a trainer.”

“You can’t do that!”

“Being harsh with your training is one thing, sir, straight up abusing our cadets is another.” Colt growled, his hold on Whiplash loosening pointedly. “You’d better get out before I decide I don’t mind a little mess up here after all.”

Bric scowled, glaring around at them all before turning and stalking out of the room. “I’ll have Commanders Blitz and Hammer ensure he leaves, General.” 

“Very good, Commander, thank you.”

“I can’t believe we did it!” Mimic exclaimed, the group of six cadets walking back to their bunkroom.

“Even without our cables.” Hevy grinned. “That was brilliant, Mimic.” 

As they entered the bunkroom, an excited squeal was heard as a tiny hatchling zoomed up to them and grabbed onto the closest leg, happening to be Echo’s, and starting to clamber up it. Echo bent down with a chuckle, plucking up the hatchling.

“Hey, Little Brother.” Fives laughed, tussling the hatchling’s hair as he clung to Echo. “Gonna miss him when we ship out, now.”

“Shame we can’t bring him.” Hive sighed, plucking the hatchling away from Echo and bouncing him, provoking a squeal of delight out of the tiny cadet.

“Maybe when he eventually ships out we can ask for him to join us.” Cutup suggested.

“I hope the war doesn’t last that long.” Mimic frowned. “That won’t be for seven more years.”

“True.”

“Let’s not think of Little Brother as a soldier now.” Hive interrupted, stroking the hatchling’s wings. Fives nodded. 

“Yeah, plenty of time for that.”

“We’re gonna be soldiers, Little Brother!” Mimic told the hatchling cheerfully. Little Brother giggled in response, leaning over Hive’s arm and making grabbing motions until Mimic took him. 

“Couldn’t have done it without you.” Echo told the hatchling fondly as he snuggled into Mimic’s arms, yawning.

“I think he’s sleepy.” Mimic noted. 

“Looks that way.” Fives agreed. “Let’s get him bundled up and let him nap.”

The hatchling curled up when he was set on one of their bunks, bundled up in their blankets, almost immediately dozing off while his older siblings fawned over him quietly. “I’ll miss him.” Hive sighed wistfully.

“Maybe we can use our leave to come back and visit him.” Hevy suggested quietly. 

“That would be nice.” Mimic agreed. “Sweet dreams, Little Brother.”

A few days later, the Domino Squad stood in formation alongside their brothers, as Shaak stood at the front of the large room, addressing them.

“Today is your graduation. From here, you ship out to fight against the Separatists and restore peace to the galaxy. Congratulations. You are no longer cadets. You are troopers.” Shaak smiled, nodding her head to them. “May the Force be with you.”

Chapter Text

“Now onto the next batch of cadets.” Whiplash exhaled. “At least these new fledglings will be cute, I won’t want to wring their necks then.” She joked to Meadow.

Meadow laughed, nodding. “Yeah, that’ll help.”

The two female Kashgar walked down the hallway, holding their helmets under their arms. “What did you think of the Commanders?” Whiplash wondered curiously.

“They seemed nice enough.” Meadow shrugged. “Haven’t really interacted with any of them aside from Commander Colt.”

Whiplash nodded in acknowledgement. “Maybe we should?” She suggested. “Wouldn’t hurt to have ‘em on our side, just in case.”

“Good idea.” Meadow agreed. “Commander Colt seems to be pretty firmly behind us, I think, after the situation with Trainer Bric.”

“Who to introduce ourselves to first…?”

“I think Commander Hammer’s in the dining hall.”

“Let’s go find him.” Whiplash decided, Meadow nodding agreement as she followed her sister. The two made their way towards the dining hall, making idle chatter with each other and looking around when they reached it, trying to spot the Commander among their brothers.

“Over there.” Whiplash pointed after a minute, catching a glimpse of the ARC Commander’s blue armor amongst the sea of regulation white.

“Right on.” Meadow nodded, the sisters heading towards him. Hammer looked up, nodding when they reached him.

“Sergeants.”

“Commander.” Whiplash nodded back, settling into one of the empty seats across from him, raising an eyebrow slightly at the tray full of rations in front of him. “Are you going to eat that, Commander?”

“Not all of it, I’m waiting for Blitz.” Hammer shook his head, tone slightly dry. “Not like there’s anything else to eat around here, is there?”

Whiplash glanced at Meadow briefly, half uncertain if that was a serious question before answering slowly. “No, Commander.”

“Right, then.” Hammer went to take a bite of the soggy looking nutri-mush on his tray, only to immediately gag and spit it back out. “Kanerth, that’s worse than I remembered!”

Whiplash blinked, rather taken aback by him actually spitting it out. “It’s… awful, Commander, but not bad enough you should spit it out.” 

Hammer shook his head, clearing his throat. “You two haven’t left Kamino yet, have you?”

“No.” Whiplash answered after a second. “We were selected as trainers right after graduation.”

“Then you haven’t been able to go properly hunting yet.” Hammer shook his head again. “Once you’ve had proper food, these are even worse.” He stood up. “If you’ll excuse me, I need to go talk to the other Commanders.”

“That didn’t go as planned.” Whiplash remarked to Meadow quietly as they left the dining hall, shaking her head slightly. Meadow giggled in spite of herself.

“Did you see his face, though?”

Whiplash’s lips twitched a bit, inclining her head in acknowledgement. “I wish we’d got a picture of that.”

“That would’ve been great.” Meadow agreed with a laugh.

“General?” Hammer approached Shaak, the Togruta Jedi standing in conversation with a couple of the Kaminoans. She looked up, inclining her head to him slightly.

“Yes, Commander, what can I do for you?”

“Would you allow me and the other Commanders to go out and hunt?” Hammer asked. “So that we, and our siblings, can eat actual food?”

“The rations provided contain all the required nutrients.” One of the Kaminoans dismissed before Shaak could answer. “Such action is unnecessary.”

“Maybe, but bad food is bad for morale.” Hammer retorted. “And I wasn’t talking to you.” He added before looking at Shaak again. 

“The rations may contain the necessary nutrients, but especially for a carnivorous race like the Kashgar, nothing can really replace real meat.” Shaak admonished the Kaminoans mildly before turning her attention back to Hammer. “I agree, Commander, this would benefit our cadets and troopers. You have my authorization.”

“Thank you, General.” Hammer nodded, turning and walking away, rejoining the other Commanders. “She’s given us permission.”

“Oh, good!” Blitz nodded. “I say we go on a trip now.”

Talking to Meadow quietly, Whiplash glanced up as she heard someone approaching, seeing Commander Colt walking towards them.

“Sergeant.” Colt addressed Whiplash, giving Meadow a slight nod of acknowledgement but mostly focused on her. “I brought you some of the meat from our expedition.”

“Thank you, Commander.” Whiplash nodded, accepting it after a quick glance at Meadow.

“You’re welcome.” Colt nodded. “Hammer and Blitz will be bringing back more as well soon.”

“Is that what I thought it was?” Whiplash murmured to Meadow after Colt had walked away, looking down at the meat she held.

“I’d definitely say so. If it wasn’t, he would’ve offered it to both of us.” Meadow answered. Whiplash eyed her sister upon seeing the gleam in her eyes, even as she bit into the meat she held. “He likes you.” Meadow declared with a grin, not noticing their General enter the room.

“Pipe down.” Whiplash muttered, taking another bite.

“No way. I’ve been waiting my whole life for this to happen.” Meadow laughed.

“Are you trying to set yourself up for payback when you get a mate?”

“That’s Future Meadow’s problem.” Meadow immediately dismissed. 

“If you keep going with this, Future Whiplash will make it one hundred times worse for Future Meadow.”

“I’m not scared.” Meadow snorted, pressing on. “You must’ve attracted his attention when you punched Bric.”

“Meadow.”

“What? I’m just saying.”

“Maybe you should stop saying.”

“Or what?”

“Are you really trying to find out?”

“Yeah, why not?”

Whiplash’s wings arched, though Shaak’s voice cut through before anything further could happen. “If you two are going to start wrestling, please take it to one of the gymnasiums or someplace more well suited to it.”

Reluctantly, Whiplash’s wings flattened back down. “Sorry, General.”

Shaak shook her head with a small chuckle. “Don’t worry about it, Sergeant. Though if you don’t mind my curiosity, what is it that has you two so excited?”

“Commander Colt gave me a courting gift.” Whiplash told her. Shaak tilted her head slightly.

“Courting gift? Forgive me- but are you not all siblings?”

“Oh, no, the Commanders aren’t related to us.” Meadow shook her head.

“They’re natural Kashgar.” Whiplash agreed. “Honorary clones.”

“Longnecks never could figure out how to clone Alphas.” Meadow added. Shaak nodded, smiling slightly again, though something about that fact nagged at her slightly…

“I see. That is exciting news, then, Sergeant.”

“Thank you, General.” Whiplash smiled slightly. Shaak nodded before walking away, leaving the two sisters alone again.

Chapter Text

The dark skinned, fifteen year old Ilfirin looked up at the Kel’Dor she was standing by, shifting on her feet slightly as they both supervised the clones on the command deck, looking over their shoulders at hearing footsteps approaching and seeing Commander Wolffe coming towards them.

“Enemy ship is coming into range, General.” Wolffe informed them, nodding slightly to Rela in acknowledgement. 

“I think it wise to report our position before we attack.” The Kel’Dor Master rumbled, making his way towards the communications projector. 

“General Skywalker’s fleet is the closest, in the Bith system.” Wolffe told him, following him over.

“Perhaps he can lend us reinforcements, then.” Plo agreed, tapping on the panel, the small holoprojection of Anakin appearing.

“Master Koon.” The Garavian Knight nodded. “How goes the search?”

“We have tracked the ship to the Abregado system, and we now require backup.” Plo answered, nodding back to him.

“I’ll check with the Council and see if we can be spared from our current posting. How urgently do you need us?” Anakin asked, the signal starting to flicker as Wolffe tried to strengthen it, only for the hologram to vanish entirely. 

“We’ve lost their signal, Master Plo.” Rela spoke up anxiously, the Padawan shifting on her feet as Wolffe tried to get it back.

“There’s too much interference. I can’t get the signal up again.” Wolffe frowned.

“The enemy ship is closing in!” One of the clones working the scanners suddenly alerted.

“Open fire!” Plo ordered, immediately turning his attention to the situation.

“We’re not in range yet, General!” Wolffe answered quickly. Before they could react further, the enemy ship’s cannons fired, a wave of energy blasting towards them.

“Brace for impact!” Plo shouted before it hit them, the warship rocking under the hit, lights flickering and alarms blaring. Rela stumbled and almost lost her balance, Plo catching her shoulder to steady her.

“The blast knocked our shields out!” One of the clones at the controls yelled as the Separatist ship started firing at them.

“To the escape pods, quickly!” Plo ordered, ushering his Padawan along ahead of him.

“You heard him, move!” Wolffe yelled, herding the other clones along ahead of them as they followed their Jedi towards the escape pods.

Rela dashed into a pod quickly, three clones following in after her before the door to the pod shut, disconnecting and launching away from the warship seconds before it exploded under the Separatists’ fire, the pod being launched further away into the debris field.

“You alright, Commander?” One of the clones, who seemed to be one of the Commanders, asked Rela a few minutes later as the pod’s movement finally slowed.

Rela nodded after a tense second, holding her lightsaber tightly as the pod drifted amongst the debris of their fleet, managing a faint, strained smile. “Yeah, thank you.”

Anakin stood in front of the communications console, frowning as the holoprojections of Windu, Kenobi, and Chancellor Palpatine appeared. “We have lost contact with Master Plo and his fleet.” He reported.

“Where were they when you lost contact?” Windu asked, frowning. 

“They were in the Abregado system, Master Windu.”

“It would be safe to assume that his fleet was destroyed like the others.” The Chancellor stated sadly. Windu’s expression tightened, just slightly, but Obi-Wan spoke first. 

“Perhaps, but Master Koon is one of the most powerful Jedi on this Council. If anyone could survive this, he could. I think we should send a rescue mission.”

“That may not be the wisest-” The Chancellor started with a pitying look, but Windu interrupted him.

“I agree with Master Kenobi. I would rather be safe than sorry. Master Koon and his Padawan are very capable, and if they’ve survived they will have highly valuable information.”

“Of course.” Palpatine agreed after a second, nodding. “Might I suggest, Anakin, that you undertake the task, and bring along-” 

“Kicker?” Anakin interrupted him, the trooper straightening up as her name was mentioned. Anakin stared the Chancellor’s hologram in the eye, seeming to challenge him to contradict it. “Splendid idea, Chancellor, I’m sure any of my troopers would be more than qualified for this task.”

“Knight Hanako and her squadron can be spared from my legion as well.” Windu added. “They will deploy to help you, Knight Skywalker.”

“Understood.” Anakin nodded. “I will meet Knight Hanako in the Abregado system.”

“Be careful, Anakin.” Obi-Wan cautioned. “Report back as soon as possible.”

A sinking feeling of dread suddenly dawned on Rela, the Padawan shifting slightly in her seat, clasping her hands together and squeezing her eyes closed, starting to pray for… safety, she thought, which was silly- there was nothing to be worried about outside of this. But still, the Koraduran kept praying silently, her shoulders tense and cold still gripping her insides.

“You alright, Commander?” The female clone, Yuna, asked her quietly, helmet balanced against her knee. 

“Turn off the power.”

Yuna furrowed her brow slightly but nodded, reaching over to the controls. “Yes, Commander.”

Barely a minute after the power was shut off, their pod drifted, seemingly, into view of another one that had Separatist droids swarming it. Opening one eye, Rela immediately closed it again, instant nausea bubbling up inside her at the sight of what the droids were doing to the clearly dead clones from the other pod, doubling her focus on her silent prayers and trying to ignore the way her chest tightened, tears prickling behind her closed eyes. Commander Cricket swore quietly, extending one wing to shield Rela’s view but keeping his own gaze on what was happening outside.

“Fuck…” Squirrel breathed, the CMO’s wings ruffling, eyes locked on the scene as well.

“They’re going to see us.” Yuna whispered tensely, as they all waited.

“...They aren’t seeing us.” Squirrel realized after the droids looked in their direction, then away as if there was nothing there, all three clones looking to the Padawan after a moment. Cricket shushed Yuna when she went to speak, shaking his head. 

“If she’s shielding us, let her concentrate.”

At that moment, another pod drifted into view, this one intact; Plo Koon and three fully armored clones standing on the outside of it as their pod was spotted by the Separatists. The destroyer moved towards the second pod, still seeming to ignore Rela’s group entirely, latching onto it. To the watching clones’ relief, the droids and destroyer were dispatched with only minor difficulty on the part of Plo and his three.

“Dear Kanerth.” Squirrel exhaled in relief, waving frantically to the group of four now resting against their pod, leaning against Yuna. This attracted Plo’s attention after a moment, the Jedi waving back in response to let them know he saw them, before his voice reached out to his Padawan through the Force.

Rela, are you alright?

Hands still clasped together tightly, Rela cleared her throat quietly, still unnerved and rather ill over what she’d just witnessed, leaning forward to switch the power back on in the dark escape pod. None of us here are hurt, Master. 

Keep your distress signal alive, it is our only chance that someone will find us. 

Rela nodded silently, realizing a second after that he probably couldn’t see that. Understood, Master Plo. 

You are distressed, Padawan. Is there something more on your mind? 

Rela hesitated, swallowing. The rest of the clones are most likely dead, Master. 

We’ll ensure they are brought back. Plo reassured her, not yet realizing her meaning. The cold of space will keep them in stasis until retrieved. 

No, Master… the droids, they… Rela faltered. I caught a glimpse of one droid destroying a heart, I think. 

Silence followed this statement as Plo strangled his own emotions, preventing them from leaking out to his already upset Padawan, sending a wave of comfort towards her instead. I’m sorry, Rela.

Rela’s eyes flickered towards the comm of the pod when it made a sound. Squirrel answered it, being the closest one as Rela spoke into it softly. “Who is this?”

“This is Knight Skywalker. Can you read me? I’m on my way to your signal.”

“We read you.” Rela confirmed. 

“Hang tight, I’m nearly there.”

Soon seeing an approaching ship, the three clones and Padawan watched the other pod be drawn inside, only for the smaller ship to seconds afterwards be dwarfed by a massive warship as it slowly flew out from behind the large sun. The small ship’s lights went out as they shut off the power, drifting amongst the debris and waiting.

For a minute, it looked as if the Separatist ship would pass them over… only for it to turn around, weapons targeting the small ship. Something inside hadn’t been switched off in time.

Switching the power back on and taking off as fast as he safely could, Anakin muttered a curse, comming Hanako’s ship. “Knight Mulan?”

“Yes, Knight Skywalker?” The Pantoran Jedi answered, her small hologram appearing on the dashboard.

“You need to go retrieve Padawan Windu’s pod.” Anakin informed her hastily. “I’ve rescued Master Koon, but the Separatists have spotted us.”

“Understood, we will move there at once. Take care, Knight Skywalker.”

Floating in between the debris, trying to keep out of sight of the warship, the four still trapped in their escape pod suddenly felt a cable attach to the outside of it, pulling them slowly back.

“Really hope that’s the rescue team.” Yuna muttered, picking up her blaster just in case. Rela closed her eyes, cautiously reaching out through the Force and relaxing after a second.

“It is.” She confirmed before the two Commanders could pick up their blasters as well. Cricket nodded, relaxing.

“Some good news for once.”

When the pod came to a stop inside the ship, the glass window was lifted off, a Pantoran Jedi reaching in to help them out. “Is anyone hurt?”

“We’re all uninjured.” Squirrel answered, him and the other two jumping out of the pod once Rela had been helped out.

“Good.” Hanako pulled out a blanket, wrapping it around Rela tightly. “You’re free to take us out of here, Phoenix!” She called back to the pilot.

“Aye, General.” Phoenix nodded sharply as Hanako guided Rela over to the seats, keeping an arm around her as Phoenix expertly flew them out of the debris field.

“We’ll be returning to the 187th.” Hanako murmured. “You’ll be safe there until your fleet is rebuilt.”

The ship landed in the docking bay of the 187th warship, where Master Windu was waiting, almost seeming impatient as the ramp lowered and Hanako led Rela down, immediately guiding her over to him. “Safe and sound, Master Windu.”

Almost immediately, Rela buried her face in Windu’s chest, hugging the Jedi Master tightly. He returned the hug, resting one hand on the teenager’s head as he nodded to Hanako in thanks. “You’re safe, Rela.” He murmured as he led her out of the docking bay, the girl holding tightly to his robes. “Master Koon is safe, he’s staying to help Knight Skywalker destroy the weapon once and for all.” He continued.

“Ok, Adar.*” Rela answered quietly, the Koraduran girl’s words being heard by the two Commanders as she was led onto the command deck. Windu squeezed her shoulder gently, nodding to Ponds and Neyo. 

“Commanders, this is Rela. She will be staying with us until Master Koon’s fleet is rebuilt.”

Ponds nodded. “She’s your niece, isn’t she?” He asked. Windu’s lips twitched slightly.

“No, Commander, Rela is my daughter, though most of the general public has been allowed to believe as you did.”

Neyo furrowed his brow, seeming puzzled. “Apologies if I’m being overly forward, sir, but aren’t Jedi not allowed to marry or have children?”

“You’re not.” Windu reassured him. “It used to be that way in the days of the Old Republic. But then Aearians and Garavians, and other soulmate oriented species, entered the picture, and the rules had to change. It is a common misconception nowadays, unfortunately perpetuated by misinformed reporters despite efforts to correct it.”

“That makes sense.” Neyo nodded. “Thank you, sir.”

Ponds, ever observant, seemed to connect the dots on something. “Is Valka Plantagenet her mother, then?” He asked, recalling the way the two had interacted the last time they’d met. 

“I can’t imagine how you would’ve guessed that.” Windu said dryly. “But yes, she is.”

Ponds chuckled. “It was obvious something was going on, sir.”

Before Windu got a chance to respond to Ponds’s tease, the Commander’s attention was drawn away by one of the clones calling to him. “Captain Soren’s ready to present his report, Commander.”

“Right.” Ponds nodded, looking back at Rela. “You’ll have to excuse us, I’m afraid. It was nice to meet you, Commander.”

“You too.” Rela nodded quietly as they walked away.

Evo jammed his helmet on as he bolted towards where the ships were, dodging around shouting medics, the station currently in chaos as they scrambled to evacuate before the Separatists reached them. Evo leapt into one of the fighters, settling quickly into the seat and pulling down the glass cover, starting up the jet as the other ARCs followed suit, the starfighters flying out of the station as Sergeant Farsight’s voice came over the radios.

“Alright, let’s try and buy them some time!” He instructed them briskly. “Stay in formation and don’t do anything risky, we need to keep the Separatists busy long enough for the evacuation to complete.”

“Sir, yes sir!” The ARCs all responded, the squadron staying in near perfect formation as they flew out to join in the fight. 

“General Koon, General Skywalker, this is Sergeant Farsight. We’re here to assist.”

“Very good, Sergeant.” Anakin answered. “Welcome to the party.”

“Thank you, General.”  

After a battle that seemed to last forever, a critical shot was landed on one of the warship’s massive engines, setting off a chain reaction as the other engines exploded one by one, to cheers from the clones.

“Good work, men!” Farsight praised his squadron proudly as they flew back towards the station, landing in the docking bay again. The troopers climbed out of the fighters, all laughing and congratulating each other, removing their helmets. Commander Daikon entered the docking bay with their Jedi close behind him, crossing over to the ARCs.

“Excellent job out there, troopers.” Daikon praised them. “Your ARC status is well earned.”

Later, once things had settled down again on the station, Plo approached Kieran, the Kel’Dor seeming more somber than usual, as though something was troubling him, with Anakin and Obi-Wan close behind. “Master Plo.” Kieran greeted as he turned around to face them, cheerful expression immediately vanishing at noticing his somber air. “Alright, what’s happened now?”

“While me, my Padawan, and the remaining members of my legion were in the two pods, I was told deeply disturbing information by Rela.” Plo started, once the four Jedi were sure they were alone.

“You’ve got my attention.” Kieran nodded with a frown.

“She believed she saw, after a brief look, droids destroying the hearts of my troopers.” Plo shared quietly, provoking immediate reactions from the other Jedi.

“What?!” Anakin’s ears flattened in anger.

“How could they have possibly learned to do that?” Kieran hissed quietly. “I don’t think the Ilfirin have kept such a tight lid on a piece of information in history. How did it leak?”

“That, I do not know.” Plo rumbled. “But I trust in what my Padawan believes she saw.”

“Poor Rela, that must have been traumatizing to witness.” Obi-Wan frowned.

“I can’t imagine the Kashgar would sabotage themselves by spreading the information after asking us to keep it quiet.” Kieran sounded thoughtful. “Everyone in the know on the Ilfirin side swore an Unbreakable Vow not to spread the information to those who would wish the Kashgar harm. Unfortunately, I think that means the information could only have come from someone within our ranks.”

“We’ll have to investigate.” Obi-Wan agreed. “And let’s hope the leak turns up soon, or who knows what else the Separatists will learn.”

Chapter Text

Squirrel walked down the Temple corridor, pausing and looking into one of the open classrooms as he passed it. A painting class was going on inside, and he lingered for a moment, watching in fascination until one of the Younglings spotted him. The small, yellow skinned Twi’lek girl immediately waved at him, drawing the teacher’s attention to the clone as well. 

“Um, sorry-” Squirrel started, realizing how weird his standing there and staring might come across. 

“Oh, it’s alright, trooper.” The Jedi teaching the class shook her head, smiling at him. “Would you like to come in and join us?”

After a second, Squirrel nodded, making his way inside and lowering himself to sit at one of the tables. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Feel free to take a canvas and palette.” The teacher told him before continuing with the lesson. 

A few minutes later, Plo stopped by the classroom, spotting Squirrel inside as the clone painted, the Younglings chattering at him happily as they worked on their projects too. The Kel’Dor observed for a moment, seeming to smile before he continued on his way, leaving Squirrel to enjoy it. 

A couple hours later, Squirrel trotted into the room the remaining members of the 104th had been sharing, holding his finished painting carefully in his hands and his clothes lightly splattered with paint.

“Oh, there you are.” Boost poked his head over the edge of his bunk. “Where’d you run off to?”

“I was in a painting class with the Jedi hatchlings.” Squirrel answered.

“Oh, that sounds cute.” Boost noted, sitting up as Squirrel sat in the lower book, carefully setting his canvas against the wall. “Me, Sinker, and Aim are gonna go out in a bit. Do you want to come with us?”

Squirrel considered that, then nodded. “Sure.” He agreed, wings ruffling slightly as he leaned back in the bunk.

“Great. The other two are tracking down Yuna to see if she wants to come too.”

A few minutes later, Squirrel looked up as Yuna was dragged into the room by Sinker and Aim, the smaller female Kashgar trapped between them. “I was going to come, you didn’t have to drag me.” Yuna grumbled, clutching a book from the Temple library under her arm.

“Course we did!” Aim laughed, plucking the book away from her and tossing it into her bunk. 

“Careful with that!” Yuna protested, prying herself free of them and hurrying over to her bunk, picking up the book again and dusting it off. “It’s the Jedi’s!”

“Ready?” Aim asked.

“Yeah, yeah I suppose so.” Yuna huffed, setting it neatly by her pillow again. 

“So, where are we going?” Squirrel asked as the five left the room. 

“There’s a bar a few blocks down.” Boost answered. “We’ve gone a couple times since we got here.” Squirrel nodded, looking at Yuna as they were led along by the triplets. She just shrugged.

“Oughta be fun.”

Squirrel plucked up the bag of credits he’d won from the natborn, standing up and turning away with the intention of returning to where the other four were seated, not noticing the now seething natborn stand up and go for a punch at the back of Squirrel’s head. This attracted his brothers’ attention, though they were too late to do anything about it, the punch connecting and causing Squirrel to stumble forward, tripping over a chair and knocking both it and himself to the ground. 

“Hey, no!” Sinker fumed, immediately leaping to his feet and rushing to his younger brother’s defense, with Boost and Aim inevitably following suit. Squirrel grimaced as he pushed himself to his feet, looking at Yuna and rolling his eyes as he made his way back over to her.

“You alright?” Yuna asked, calmly sipping her drink as if there wasn’t a full on brawl going on behind them.

“Yep.” Squirrel nodded, setting the small bag of credits on the table and picking up his own drink.

“Sore loser, huh?”

Squirrel snorted, nodding in agreement. “Definitely.”

Yuna looked over at the brawl behind them, sipping her drink again. “Ah, well, looks like they’re sorting it.”

A few minutes later, barely two minutes, Squirrel looked over his shoulder as members of the Guard hurried into the bar. “Oh, are they here because of us??” Yuna realized belatedly, sitting up straighter as the Guards moved to break up the fight.

“Well, shit. I’ll call Wolffe.” Squirrel sighed, already pulling out his commlink, about to dial Wolffe’s number when one of the Guards stalked over to them. 

“Are you two involved with this?” The Guard questioned, sounding fed up.

“Technically, we did nothing-” Squirrel started, raising one hand in slight defense, holding his drink in the other.

“There’s the issue. You’re with those three, aren't you? You could’ve tried to reign them in.”

“Technically, the natborn started it.” Yuna muttered.

“Getting punched in the head once was enough for me.” Squirrel agreed. “Maybe the natborn will learn his lesson next time.”

“Right, come on you two.” The Guard sighed, gesturing for them to get up. Squirrel put down his drink, grabbing his bag of credits before the two 104th clones followed the Guard out of the bar. “You’re both coming back to the station with your brothers.”

“This is a slight overreaction.” Squirrel murmured to Yuna. 

“I heard that.” The Guard seemed to glare at them from behind his helmet. “You’re a victim, she’s a witness, you’re both coming.”

Silently, Squirrel mocked him when he looked away again, hurriedly stopping when Yuna’s giggle caused their Guard brother’s head to whip back around. He scrutinized them both suspiciously, Yuna struggling to keep a straight face as he looked ahead again. Squirrel’s lips twitched a bit, wrapping one arm around Yuna’s shoulders as the Guard opened the front of the van.

“Just get in.”

“Hey you three!” Squirrel called to their brothers in the back as he climbed in after Yuna.

“This is your fault!” Boost immediately complained. 

“I didn’t tell you to do that.” Squirrel pointed out.

“We couldn’t not defend you.”

“Quiet down!” Another one of the Guards snapped, sounding irritated and cranky. Boost grumbled, falling silent and crossing his arms. “Thire, call the prison, tell them we have those three 104th clones inbound.”

“Fox is going to be thrilled.” Thire remarked wryly, reaching for the comms. “Fox?”

“Yes, Lieutenant?” Fox answered. 

“We’ve got those three 104th clones this time, as well as two more this time, as a victim and a witness.”

“Again? That’s the third time since they got here!”

“Yeah.” Thire sighed. “Heads up, the new two are just as bad as those three, even if they didn’t get involved. Which is exactly the issue, they just sat and watched.”

“Good grief, I may as well have General Koon on speed-dial at this point. I’ll be waiting for you.”

When the transport van stopped, Squirrel climbed down after Yuna, seeing a taller clone waiting outside, his arms folded. “You two come with me.” Fox informed them, sounding mildly fed up. “Thire, put the other three in holding until Koon gets here, I’ll deal with them in a minute.” The two followed after Fox, into the prison building. “I’ll need you two to file a report.”

“Ok.” Squirrel nodded. Fox led them into the cramped office, passing a datapad to each of them before taking a seat at the desk. Both of them started silently filling out their reports, avoiding looking at each other so as to not burst out laughing. They set their completed reports on the desk and Fox looked between them, appearing unimpressed. 

“General Koon will be here to collect you shortly.” He said, in the tone one would use with a disobedient child, getting up and leaving to speak to the other three down in holding. After he’d left the room, Squirrel snorted quietly, his shoulders shaking.

“They’re so mad about it.” Yuna whispered, quivering with laughter. Squirrel nodded quickly in agreement, covering his mouth so he didn’t laugh out loud. “I’m sorry, it’s a little funny.” Yuna giggled.

“It is.” Squirrel whispered back.

“Did Thire say this is the third time the triplets have been arrested since we got here?”

“He did.”

“Now how have they managed that?” Yuna snorted.

“We’ll have to ask them later.” Squirrel shook his head, humming a bit. “Wanna go with me to buy art supplies tomorrow? I’ll buy you a book if there’s any credits left over.”

“That sounds good.” Yuna agreed. “And let’s not take the triplets, they’re going to sully our good names.”

Squirrel broke down laughing, unable to hold it back anymore, and immediately setting Yuna off as well, the two clones howling with laughter even as Fox led Plo into the small office. Fox cleared his throat, loudly, irritation seeming to radiate off him. Tears streaming down his face, sniggering, Squirrel looked up, hastily attempting to get himself under control at seeing Plo.

“I’m glad you two seem to be having fun.” Plo sounded faintly amused. “Apologies for the trouble, Commander Fox, I will attempt to reign in the other three.”

“If I end up arresting those three again, General, they’ll be spending the night in holding before I contact you.” Fox added in warning before waving them out, the two following Plo out of the office, leaning on each other and still snickering.

“This wasn’t mine and Yuna’s fault, General.” Squirrel said, managing to get himself under control.

“I’m aware.” Plo nodded. “Fox sent me the report.”

After collecting the triplets, who received a mild scolding from Plo for getting into trouble yet again, the group left the prison, where a very unimpressed Wolffe was waiting for them outside. “Again, you three?” He immediately demanded, glaring at them.

“It’s Squirrel’s fault!” Boost immediately protested.

“Did Squirrel punch the natborn?” Boost fell silent at that, grumbling. “That’s what I thought. Get on the speeder.” Boost continued to grumble as they all piled on, Wolffe rolling his eyes. “You’re all going to give me gray feathers before I’ve even lived thirty years.”

When the group returned to their room later that night, Squirrel went to lay down in his bunk but paused, finding a neatly wrapped package by his pillow, a small card attached to it via a string. All that was written on it was his name, but the neat, blocky handwriting was quickly identifiable as his General’s. Curious now, Squirrel opened the package, finding inside a small sketchbook and a set of colored pencils. Inside the cover of the book was an inscription, again in Plo’s handwriting.

Put them to good use, son.

Chapter Text

The group of six cadets- troopers, now- sat in the back of the shuttle as it flew along, taking them to their new posting. “So, what do you think it’ll be like?” Hive asked her batchmates curiously.

“Not very populated, I’d imagine. Never heard of Rishi before this.” Echo answered. 

“You? Never having heard of something?” Mimic laughed. “That’s new.”

“Oh, quiet.” Echo grunted. Mimic snickered again, looking pleased with himself for getting that in, high fiving Cutup.

“Think we’ll see a lot of action?” Hevy mused.

“Let’s hope-” Hive paused, tilting her head, hearing a scuffling sound from inside the ceiling above them. “..Huh.” She muttered, reaching up and tugging off the vent cover to look inside, immediately being knocked back into Echo by a little blur latching onto her face. 

“Watch it!” Echo protested as he was knocked over. 

“Little Brother?!” Fives stared in surprise at the tiny hatchling clinging to Hive’s face. Hive was caught by Hevy as she stumbled again, Mimic reaching over and prying the hatchling off her face. Little Brother squeaked happily, looking up at his older siblings adoringly and apparently oblivious to the chaos his presence caused.

“Little Brother, what are you doing here?” Mimic asked worriedly. 

“How did he get onboard?” Cutup added.

“And furthermore, how do we get him back?” Hive asked. Little Brother giggled innocently, the hatchling clearly enjoying all the attention he was getting, little wings puffed up in excitement.

“Should we, even?” Echo pointed out quietly after a minute. “We all know how much the Longnecks love deviance…”

“Echo’s got a point. Best case they’ll just make him forget about us, worst case…” Fives trailed off, looking around. He didn’t need to finish that sentence, they all knew what he meant.

“We should call Sergeant Whiplash.” Cutup suggested, pulling out a slip of paper with her comm number written on it, which she’d given to them before they deployed. “She’ll know what the best course of action is.”

“This is Sergeant Whiplash, who is this and what do you want?” Whiplash asked, when she answered their call. 

“It’s the Dominoes, Sergeant.” Fives cleared his throat. “We’ve got a minor issue.”

“What’s the issue?”

“Little Brother stowed away on our shuttle.”

A couple seconds of silence followed this statement, and Fives was about to check he hadn’t lost the signal when Whiplash spoke again. “No, he didn’t.” Fives blinked in confusion.

“Yeah, he did- he’s sitting right next to me.”

“No hatchling stowed away on your ship.” 

“Sergeant-?”

“Should a hatchling have done so, it would be required that he be returned immediately.” 

Starting to catch on now, Fives nodded slowly. “Right…” 

“A prank call such as this is not funny, and I wish to hear no more of it, troopers.” 

“Right. Sorry, Sergeant.” Whiplash cut the comm call, leaving the troopers looking at each other until Fives spoke again. “I guess he’s staying with us, then.”

“Apparently so.” Hive nodded. “Hopefully whoever is in charge won’t mind that.”

“I really hope it’s not boring.” Mimic muttered, changing the subject.

“I don’t know that we want it to be too interesting now that we’ve got Little Brother along for the ride.” Cutup pointed out. 

“Well, no, but being completely boring would be even worse.”

“True.” 

“Ughhh!” Hive groaned, spinning around on her chair.

“What now?” Hevy looked over at her.

“What do you think ?” 

“Whole load of nothing?”

“Got it in one.” Hive huffed, annoyed. Hevy rolled his eyes, leaning back in his seat. 

“Joy.”

“Rock, rock, and more rock…” Hive muttered, spinning her chair more. 

“Kamino was more interesting than this.” Cutup sighed. “Why were we so eager to get deployed again?”

“We were stupid, apparently.” Echo shook his head, idly leafing through one of the manuals. He must’ve read them all twice by now. 

“At least Little Brother’s having fun.” Fives remarked, supervising the hatchling as he climbed up the makeshift trellis frame they’d put together for him, using pieces of scrap metal from around the outpost. 

“Troopers, mind your posts.” The group of troopers immediately straightened up as Sergeant O’Niner entered the control center, his tone sharp as he scolded them.

“Sorry, Sergeant.” Echo apologized.

“Marshal Commander Cody is on his way to inspect our outpost.” O’Niner reminded him. “Even without the impending inspection, our outpost is vital to Kamino’s defense. No matter how boring it may be at the moment, we need to stay alert.”

“What do we do about Little Brother, Sergeant?” Cutup asked.

“I’ve already explained the circumstances to him.” O’Niner answered. “He had a similar response to that of your sergeant. Little Brother is on Kamino where he belongs.” Suddenly, O’Niner’s comm crackled, Mimic’s voice coming through, though it was breaking up. 

“-There?- Droids-” was all that made it through before the comm cut off, going dead. 

“Mimic? Trooper, do you copy!” O’Niner said into the comm sharply, looking at the others when there was no response. “Guard your posts and keep Little Brother close. I’ll be back.”

Pushing herself to her feet, Hive plucked Little Brother off his climbing frame, the hatchling immediately snuggling into her arms instead as she returned to her seat, their Sergeant striding out of the room with a hand on his pistol.

“Can’t reach Mimic.” Fives frowned, poking inquisitively at their sibling bond and hitting a wall. “Maybe you’ll see some action after all, you two.” He directed this at Hevy and Hive wryly.

“I did not mean this kind of action.” Hive muttered, peering out through her telescope in an attempt to spot anything out of the ordinary.

“I’m not seeing anything on my scope.” Hevy frowned, after a few tense minutes of waiting. “Should we call the Sergeant?”

“He said he’ll be back…” Echo sounded a bit doubtful.

“But what if something happened?” Cutup asked.

“Sergeant said to wait, and stay at our posts.” Echo insisted. “We just have to wait.” 

As Cody and Rex spoke to the ‘troopers’, something caught Cody’s attention- something tan colored, sticking out from behind a stack of boxes on the landing pad, utterly still and seeming to resemble a hand. “Rex.” Cody muttered, just barely audible to the other trooper, tilting his helmet the smallest bit in that direction to draw his attention to it. Rex glanced subtly to the side, pretending he didn’t hear Cody.

“Is everything alright here, then?” He asked the trooper speaking to them. “We are meant to do an inspection.”

“Yes, everything’s fine, sir, the outpost is in perfect condition.” Something seemed off about the way the clone spoke, a note too monotone to be normal. Suddenly, Rex punched him, sending him crumpling to the ground and catching Cody completely off guard.

“Rex!”

Rex held up a hand in response, kneeling down and yanking off the helmet to reveal a battle droid’s faceplate. Cody grimaced. “Great.” He muttered, going over to the stack of boxes and pushing them aside slightly. The slumped form of a trooper was laying there, left only in his blacks with his armor presumably stolen, head twisted at an awkward angle and an open wound on his chest, as though it had been dug into.

“Damn droids.” Cody muttered, kneeling down by the dead trooper. “Rex, keep a lookout for a moment.” He instructed, unfurling his tendrils from beneath his wings, pulses of orange light running down them as they ran carefully over the wound, speeding along the regenerative process until the wound had closed. Cody scooped up the younger Kashgar after, standing up. “We’ll have to assume the rest of the troopers stationed here are in similar condition.” He predicted grimly. Just as he finished that sentence, the doors slid open, more droids appearing. 

Already holding his pistols, Rex opened fire as Cody retrieved his own blaster, several shots being exchanged on both sides before a signal flare shot into the sky behind them, exploding in a burst of red sparks. Cody and Rex looked at each other, still exchanging fire with the droids, before Cody started to back towards the edge of the platform, still holding the temporarily killed trooper as Rex moved to cover him. 

Getting a couple more shots in and taking out a couple of the droids, Cody stepped back off the edge of the platform, letting himself fall a couple feet out of the droids’ range before beating his wings, catching himself and stopping his descent. He hovered underneath the platform, waiting until Rex joined him.

“Right, now where’d that flare come from?” Cody muttered, looking around as he and Rex landed on the rocky trail.

After a while of walking, looking for the source of the flare, the shadowy forms of what appeared to be five troopers appeared. “That must be them.” Rex muttered as they approached, the group of shinies soon coming into their view and immediately noticing the clone slumped in Cody’s arms. 

“Mimic!” One of them immediately exclaimed, dashing towards them. Rex held up a hand, stopping him. 

“Hold on. Helmets off first.”

The troopers complied, removing their helmets, proving they were not in fact droids. Rex relaxed slightly, nodding acknowledgement as Cody spoke up. 

“What are your names, troopers?”

“Echo, sir. And these are Fives, Hevy, Hive, and Cutup.” Echo pointed around at his siblings. “And Little Brother doesn’t have a name yet.” Cody nodded, glancing down at the Kashgar he held.

“And this one’s name is Mimic?”

“Yes, sir.” Echo confirmed.

“What happened?” Rex asked.

“The droids managed to avoid our scopes long enough to infiltrate the base, sir.” Fives answered. “Mimic tried to call to warn us, he spotted them on patrol, but I guess they shot him. Sergeant O’Niner went to investigate and they shot him as well- we were outnumbered, so we had to retreat.”

“We need to retake that tower.” Rex grimaced after sharing a look with Cody. “If the Separatists control this place they have a straight shot to Kamino.”

“You two-” Cody pointed to Hive, who was holding Little Brother, and to Cutup. “-stay here, look after the hatchling and Mimic.”

“Yes sir.”

“The rest of you, follow me and Captain Rex.” Cody instructed. The troopers nodded affirmatively, placing their helmets back on. Just before they could move, though, a massive eel leapt out of one of the cave tunnels, aiming for Hive and Little Brother- for what was, the Commander and Captain didn’t know, the second time that day. Rex whipped out a pistol, firing once and hitting it right between the eyes, a cut off screech being heard as it hit the ground. Rex lowered his pistol. 

“Right, you two going to be okay out here on your own?”

“Yes sir.” Hive nodded as Cutup took Mimic’s body from Cody.

“If things get dire, fire off another signal flare.” 

Rex strode towards the door of the base, fully armored with the others hiding out of sight, stopping once he was in front of the camera. 

“Unit 2-6, is that you?” A droid’s voice came through the camera microphone.

“Roger roger.” Rex answered.

“You sound strange. Is something wrong with your vocoder?” The droid questioned.

“Roger roger.”

“Take off your helmet, let me see your faceplate.” The droid ordered. Rex moved as if to remove his helmet, then ducked down, holding the head of one of the destroyed droids up in view of the camera. Cody put his hand over the visor of his helmet, groaning quietly. 

“This is never gonna work.”

Despite Cody’s words, the doors started to open, the droids startling at seeing Rex standing there. “Clones!”

“Roger. Roger.” Rex responded, immediately shooting the droid in the head, the remaining ones in the doorway quickly being taken out by Cody and the shinies as they joined him.

The group moved quickly into the outpost, making it a little down the hallway before spotting another clone body. “There’s the Sergeant.” Echo muttered. 

“Take him down to the other two, then rejoin us.” Cody instructed. “Fly, don’t teleport. You don’t want to end up in the middle of an ambush.”

“Yes, sir.” Echo nodded, pausing to gather up some of the scattered pieces of clone armor as well, before lifting O’Niner up with a grunt. Fives placed a helmet on top of the other armor pieces, which neither of them needed any help identifying. Echo nodded to him slightly before continuing on to the door, launching himself into the air once he reached the platform and flying back to where they’d left Hive and Cutup as the others continued further into the outpost.

Barely a few minutes later, Echo came hurrying back to them, having flown as fast as he could. “There’s a droid ship approaching!”

“Great.” Rex scowled, looking at Cody. “We need to alert the Republic, so what now?”

“We won’t be able to turn the signal off, between the droids still here and more on the way.” Cody responded. “At this point, we’ll have to destroy the base to prevent them keeping control of it.”

“There’s stuff we can use to make explosives downstairs.” Hevy told them. 

“Let’s move quickly, then.” Cody decided. 

“Where’s Hevy?” Hive immediately demanded when the four Kashgar crawled out of the tunnel. 

“He was right behind me!” Fives looked back in alarm, wings ruffling slightly. Hive’s lips pressed together behind her helmet, starting towards the tunnel.

“Hive, you can’t-” Echo tried to stop her and was immediately cut off by a warning rumble. 

“Stay put!” Cody ordered her sharply. “I will go back-” He started to say, heading towards the tunnel, only to be cut off by the tower erupting in a massive explosion. For a second, Hive was still, before she had to be grabbed by Rex to prevent her from making an attempt at dashing towards it, the female Kashgar immediately erupting into loud snarling as she fought against him. 

“Hive, enough!” Rex ordered, pulling her back towards the group. “Do not get yourself killed!” Hive only continued to kick and thrash, her helmet being knocked off in her struggle, twisting around and trying to bite Rex.

“Hive!” Another, scolding voice broke through the clamor. “Don’t bite Captain Rex!”

Fives jumped, fist connecting with Hevy’s stomach on reflex, wings arching in surprise at hearing his voice beside him as Hive immediately stopped. “Ow! Fives!” Hevy wheezed, beating his wings to catch his balance as he stumbled back, the clone’s armor covered in soot and ashes from the explosion.

“Sorry.” Fives apologized sheepishly. “You startled me.”

Hevy grumbled, straightening up slightly as he realized Cody and Rex’s attention was now fully on him. “Erm- mission successful, sirs.” He said before being promptly tackled by Hive. 

“... I’m taking that one.” Cody told Rex.

“We haven’t even left Rishi yet, Commander, don’t get carried away.” Rex muttered in response. 

“I’m not. That one-” Cody pointed to Hevy. “Is mine.”

“Guess you’re taking Hive too then, Commander, they’re a set.” Fives informed him cheekily, overhearing this exchange. Rex just shook his head, looking at Hevy.

“How did you make it out?”

“Pure dumb luck, sir.” Hevy answered. “I just barely managed to teleport out before the explosion could injure me too badly.”

Rex nodded, looking at Cody again. “Now that signal is turned off, we can call for a ship to pick us up.”

“Good idea.” Cody agreed, glancing at Mimic and O’Niner’s bodies. “The sooner we get them into a medbay, the sooner they’ll be back.” 

Mimic grunted a bit, wings twitching as he came to, feeling a small, warm weight on his chest and tiny claws curled into his fur, opening his eyes to see Little Brother sound asleep on top of him and purring away contently. The rest of the Dominoes were gathered in chairs around Mimic’s bed, occupying themselves relatively quietly- as quiet as their lot could be, anyway. Settling one hand on Little Brother’s back, Mimic moved to push himself up with a grunt, immediately attracting their attention.

“Hey, hey!” Echo immediately protested. “Stay put, Mimic, you have no idea how hard we had to fight that medic to let us in here, and if you move he’ll kick us out!”

“It can’t be the-” Mimic started, yawning, just as said medic seemed to spawn out of nowhere. 

“I told you lot not to disturb him.” Kix said sternly, hurrying over and pushing Mimic back into a lying position. Startled, Mimic stared up at him for a second before his eyes flicked to the other Dominoes.

“We didn’t, I swear!” Fives immediately argued. “He just woke up!”

“Mm hm.” Kix eyed the rookies with suspicion, with them having clearly already done something to earn the Distrust of the Medics, before turning his attention back to Mimic. “How are you feeling?”

After Mimic had answered all of Kix’s standard questions, the medic now looking at other things, a slight mischievous gleam entered his eyes, glancing at Cutup as he opened his mouth. “Is he good to get up now, sir?” Cutup’s voice asked. Kix whipped around like someone had fired a gun at him, bristling. 

“I warned you. All of you, out.”

“But I didn’t-” Cutup tried to protest.

“Out!”

Mimic’s shoulders shook with quiet giggles as the rookies were chased out, Cody and Rex arriving a moment later. “Glad to see you’re in high spirits.” Cody remarked, walking over to him while Kix was distracted. Mimic continued to giggle quietly, unable to help himself, voice shifting rapidly as he managed to splutter out a sentence.

“It’s good to meet you, sirs.”

“You too.” Cody nodded. “I’m guessing since Kix just chased them out, your squad haven’t had a chance to bring you up to speed yet.” Mimic shook his head, managing to stifle his quiet giggles. “Right, I’ll give you a brief summary then.”

Mimic listened as Cody explained, one hand stroking through Little Brother’s wings. Cody looked at Rex once he was finished. “See if you can convince Kix to let the others back in, yeah? I think we should tell them about their new assignments.”

Rex nodded, going to negotiate with the medic. A couple minutes later the Dominoes were all gathered around Mimic’s bed again, Rex clearing his throat slightly. “Your new assignments have been figured out.” He told them. The troopers straightened up slightly, full attention on the Captain and Commander. “Fives, Echo, and Cutup, you three will be joining me in the 501st. Mimic, Hevy, and Hive will be going to the 212th with Commander Cody.”

“You’re splitting us up?” Fives asked in dismay. 

“Generals Skywalker and Kenobi are, as you say, a set.” Rex reassured him. “You’ll see each other often enough. Most of our campaigns are joint.”

Fives nodded reluctantly after a moment, accepting that. It wasn’t perfect, but it was good enough.

“Yes sir.”

Chapter Text

“You have four hours to meet up with your packmates from the 501st and do as you will in the city.” Cody informed Hevy, Mimic, and Hive, the group gathered in the boarding deck of the warship as they waited for the ramp to finish extending. “If I hear of any of you causing trouble, you’ll be cleaning the ‘freshers for a week.”

The two legions had stopped on the planet of Neveah, a planet known for its friendly and peaceful environment, to resupply and rest before continuing on their campaign. Neveah was said to be a haven for all races, with a low crime rate and no tolerance for the sort of bounty hunters and smugglers you would find on Coruscant. The rest stop now provided the Domino Squad with an opportunity to meet up properly for the first time since their reassignments.

“We’re not Mimic!” Hive protested, holding Little Brother, earning an immediate glare and yell of protest from her squadmate.

“No trouble, any of you.” Cody repeated warningly, unamused, before glancing over his shoulder as another group of three entered the boarding deck. “Boil. If you’ll excuse me.” He muttered before striding away, apparently intending on issuing the same words of warning to them. Hive huffed, rolling her eyes a bit before starting to make her way down the ramp, followed by her brothers.

“Echo says that there are natborn Kashgar living here.” Hevy remarked curiously. Looking around, Mimic’s eyes brightened slightly. 

“Yeah, see?” He gestured ahead of them to the massive trees that grew around them, a bit of examination revealing the wooden houses built within their branches and against the trunks.

“Huh. Imagine living in a tree like that.” Hevy mused before looking around the landing pad. “Now where are the other three?”

Suddenly, Mimic was tackled, stumbling back a couple feet as Cutup practically hung off him. “It’s been five weeks too many!” He complained, hugging Mimic tightly as Fives and Echo followed him at a slightly calmer pace. Mimic snickered a bit but hugged Cutup back, resting his forehead against his brother’s.

“I missed you too.”

Cutup let go after a minute, pulling Mimic back to his feet and slinging an arm over his shoulder. “Alright, let’s go. I’m dying to see what an actual city looks like outside of the training holos.”

“Oh, that’s cool.” Hive remarked after they’d been walking for a while, spotting a stall with wooden statues and falling behind her brothers, going over to have a look. Little Brother cooed curiously, looking at the sculptures with wide eyes as another, natural Kashgar walked up to the stall beside them. “You like it?” Hive asked the hatchling, picking up one of the sculptures- a small, wooden phoenix- and holding it up for him to study as the Kashgar running the stall attended to other customers. Little Brother cooed again, reaching out to touch the statue curiously.

“Yeah?” Hive smiled slightly, before looking over her shoulder when she heard the unfamiliar Kashgar beside her speak. 

“Curious little fellow.” He offered the hatchling a friendly smile before returning his attention to Hive. “I don’t think I’ve seen you around here before.”

“Oh no, we’re only here a few hours.” Hive shook her head. “I’m Hive.”

“Goji.” The male Kashgar answered with a nod. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“You as well.” Hive agreed, setting the statue back down.

“Is this your first time visiting?” Goji asked.

“It is.”

Goji smiled. “It’s a lovely city.” He told her. “Everyone’s very welcoming. It’s a shame you don’t have longer.”

“I’ll have to come back someday and explore more.” Hive noted. “I think this planet has more levels than I can actually see in that time.”

“Definitely.” Goji agreed. “I’ve lived here for almost a year and still haven’t seen all there is to see.” He looked down at Little Brother again, who was still fixated on the phoenix statue, pointing and babbling. “He really likes that, huh?”

“He does.” Hive sounded slightly rueful. “I can’t exactly buy it for him, though.”

Goji hummed thoughtfully, opening his bag and pulling out a piece of prey after a moment, stepping into the queue of customers and speaking to the stall owner briefly before handing it over, picking up the small phoenix statue and going back over, offering it to Hive. “Here.”

Hive smiled after a moment of slight surprise, accepting it. “Thank you.” She told him cheerfully, handing it to Little Brother. Unbeknownst to her, the gift had activated her squad’s Big Brother Senses.

“You’re welcome.” Goji answered, startling slightly as Hevy seemed to appear out of nowhere beside Hive.

“Hevy-?” Hive blinked, looking up at him. 

“What’s this?” Hevy demanded, eyeing the unfamiliar Kashgar suspiciously. Goji raised his hands slightly.

“Guess you’re her brother. Just chatting.”

“Yes, we’re just chatting.” Hive glared at Hevy, tone gaining a slight edge. “You don’t need to interfere, Hevy. ”

“What’s that, then?” Hevy raised an eyebrow, looking at the statue as the rest of their brothers joined them. Hive’s wings twitched in irritation.

“It’s something for Little Brother, so how about the rest of you all fuck off?”

“I don’t think we’re going anywhere.” Hevy decided with a grumble, settling his arm around her shoulders. Hive smacked at him, starting to shove her brothers away.

“No, you are. Fuck off.” She bit out.

Goji laughed, shaking his head. “Don’t worry about it, I’ve got more trading I need to do anyway. I’ll see you some other time, Hive.”

“I’m going to disown all of you. Except Little Brother. He can stay.” Hive threatened, stomping away from them after Goji left.

“Hive!” Hevy protested, following her.

“You are an embarrassment that was dropped on his head as a tubie!”

“Now that’s just mean!” 

Hive snarled in response to that, still stroking Little Brother’s wings. Hevy huffed, looking around and diverting into an alleyway after a moment, disappearing from her view. “Do not be like those idiots, Little Brother.” She told the hatchling as she sat down on a bench. Little Brother cooed at her innocently in response, hugging his little wooden statue contently.

A few minutes later, Hive glanced to the side as Hevy appeared, holding a couple bags that had a delicious smell coming from them. “Not entirely sure what all is in these.” He said as he plopped down beside her, opening one of the bags to take out some kind of pastry. “But they smelled pretty damn good.”

Hive accepted the pastry after a second, studying it. “This is called a cannoli.” She muttered. At the last word, Little Brother squealed abruptly in excitement, looking up at Hive in utter delight. She blinked, startled, the pastry halfway to her mouth as she stared at the hatchling in surprise. While she was distracted by his reaction, Little Brother reached up, managing to grab half the pastry before she could stop him.

“One- you are now on thin fucking ice for that.” Hive shook her finger at the hatchling as he gobbled it down. “Two… Cannoli?” 

Little Brother gave another muffled squeal, cream from the pastry smeared all over his face now, his tiny wings twitching in delight. Hive’s lips twitched after a second, eating her half of the treat before starting to clean the hatchling’s face. “Looks like Little Brother picked his name.” She muttered to herself as the rest came towards them, holding more food bags.

“Looks like it.” Hevy laughed.

“Looks like what?” Mimic blinked. 

“Little Brother picked his name.” Hive answered. 

“Oh, what is it then?” Cutup asked excitedly. Hive just smiled, standing up and walking away. 

“Hive, you can’t leave us in suspense like that!” Echo protested, Hive simply continuing to walk away, looking slightly smug as she bounced Cannoli.

“Hive!” Fives argued, all of them dashing after her now.

“Where should we go next?” Hive asked, ignoring their pleas.

“Maybe just the next level down.” Hevy suggested. “Should have just enough time to explore that before we have to head back.”

“Let’s go, then.” Mimic nodded. 

“Are you going to tell us Little Brother’s name?” Fives tried again as the group approached the elevator. 

“Not yet.” Hive answered.

“Why not?” Echo protested.

“Payback.” Hive stepped into the elevator.

“We’re just looking out for you.” Cutup argued as they all filed inside. Hive didn’t acknowledge that, hitting the button that would take them down to the next level. 

The levels of Neveah had been modified to create suitable habitats for each of the races that inhabited the planet. The uppermost one was comprised mostly of Kashgar, allowing for the large trees they inhabited, along with being the hub for most of the planet’s space travel. According to what they had read, the second level and a couple below it were designed to mimic the four planets the Ilfirin inhabited, though naturally there was no real, strict segregation.

“Speaking of Little Brother, though, have any of you noticed he hasn’t seemed to grow much since we left Kamino?” Echo ventured after a minute. “With how fast the cadets grow, you’d think he’d have sprouted a little in the past few months.”

Mimic hummed slightly. “Commander Cody said he’s stopped the fast aging.” He answered. “That’s a thing, apparently, that we can do.” 

“We can just stop it?” Fives blinked.

“Apparently.” Mimic nodded as the elevator doors opened. The groups made their way out of the elevator into the Ilfirin level. The air seemed to hum with magic, and the area immediately surrounding the elevators seemed to be their marketplace. The area absolutely bustled with activity, and bright flashes and puffs of smoke caught their attention from further down the rows of colorful stalls. 

“Looks like some kind of performance. Let’s go check it out.” Fives suggested. Agreeing to this idea, the group of six, plus hatchling, soon reached the correct stage, joining the crowd surrounding it. 

An Ilfirin woman stood in the middle of the stage, clouds of colorful, sparkling mist forming beneath her hands as she gestured, the cloud taking the shape of a massiff as the crowd watched, the cloud creature leaping off the stage and bounding between the watchers before leaping into the air and vanishing, little wisps of mist falling away above them. Cannoli cooed in excitement, trying to grab at the wisps.

“You like that, Little Brother?” Hive asked him, lips twitching slightly. The show continued for a few more minutes, conjured birds and bunnies spreading through the crowd, before the woman took a bow to signal the end of the show. The group moved on, walking down the market street again. Soon, another performance caught Hevy’s eye- or, more specifically, the performer herself, a young Koraduran woman who was doing an elaborate dance routine alongside her pet tiger. Hive grasped his arm immediately when he started to move in that direction, stopping him, immediately noticing what caught his eye and seizing her chance for payback.

“Hive-” Hevy started to protest.

“Nope.”

Hevy just groaned after a second, realizing he’d completely set himself up for this. The Koraduran woman finished her routine, taking a bow to the audience before she and her tiger jumped down off the stage, clearing the way for an Elikalan woman and her bear to take her place. Passing the hatchling to Fives, Hive grabbed Cutup’s wrist when he perked up, trying to go that way too. 

“Come on, Hive, now you’re just being petty.” Hevy argued with her, Cutup making a noise of indignant protest.

“It’s almost time for us to head back.” Hive declared as she dragged them away, provoking further protests which she ignored. The two grumbled but reluctantly followed her with the others close behind, the hatchling clinging to Fives and looking rather sleepy. 

“By the way, his name is Cannoli.” Hive mentioned casually a while later, when they were approaching where the warships were docked.

“Oh, now you’ll tell us.” Fives huffed, looking down at the sleepy hatchling. “But that’s adorable.” Hive snickered, plucking Cannoli out of his arms and cradling him again. 

“Hi, Cannoli.” Cutup smiled, tussling his hair, a sleepy squeal of excitement leaving Cannoli at hearing his name. 

“We’ll see you whenever our Generals team up again.” Mimic said when they finally reached the warships.. 

“See you around.” Fives agreed. 

“Take care.” Echo added on, the group of siblings exchanging well wishes and embraces before splitting off to their two legions, to continue their adventures. 

Chapter Text

“Keep firing, take out the engines and employ a tractor beam!” 

A tall Aearian woman stood in the middle of the Tranquility command deck, blue eyes locked on the Separatist ship that was attempting to escape them. Commander Gree nodded sharply, observing as Atlanta’s orders were carried out. The Jedi reached out through the Force as she watched the tractor beam lock on to the fleeing ship.

At the hangar bay, Lumi? 

I am. Luminara confirmed. I’m ready and waiting. 

We’ve got him, he’s coming in now.

Good.

“Good job, troopers.” Atlanta declared, turning and making her way out of the command deck with Gree close behind her. When they reached the hangar bay, Luminara had arrested their target- a human man with graying hair and a cold, calculating look in his eyes. 

“Excellent work Commander Gree, Master Nero.” Luminara murmured, nodding to them both calmly. Her lightsaber remained loosely held in her hand, the remains of several droids surrounding the captured Separatist ship. “Commander, please ensure additional security is placed around the cell block.”

Atlanta turned her attention to the Separatist, lips pursing slightly. “And take General Tremaine to the highest cell in the block.” She added. 

“I’ll see to it personally, Generals.” Gree nodded, gesturing for the troopers restraining the Separatist General to follow him. 

“Now, just to get him to Coruscant.” Atlanta murmured to Luminara, once they were alone in the hangar bay. The Mirialan nodded.

“I fully anticipate that some sort of attempt to free him will be made. He is too important to the Separatists for them to allow his capture easily.” She stated. “When, and how, remains to be seen.”

“All we can do is stay on our guards.” Atlanta agreed.

“We should make contact with the Council and inform them of our momentary success.” Luminara nodded, starting to walk out of the docking bay as a few of the clones passed them, going to clean up the droid debris. “I trust Commander Gree can handle our captive for the moment.” 

The two Jedi made their way down the corridor, entering Luminara’s office to call the Council. Starting the call, a hologram of a clone appeared first, causing Luminara’s lips to twitch faintly. She’d nearly forgotten about Windu’s new policy. “Holdup.”

“General Unduli, General Nero.” Holdup greeted. “Session’s just started, I’ll put you through.” 

“Thank you, Holdup.” Luminara nodded with a small smile as the clone disappeared, being replaced by the holograms of the other Council members. 

“Master Unduli, Master Nero.” Windu nodded to them both. 

“Master Windu.” Atlanta acknowledged before Luminara spoke.

“We are calling to inform you that our mission to capture General Tremaine has been successful.” She informed them. “He is being held in our highest security cell until we can arrange transport to Coruscant.”

“Good.” Windu nodded. “The Senate Guard will be alerted, then, and be ready for his detainment.” 

“We are anticipating that an attempt to free him will be made before we reach Coruscant.” Luminara stated calmly. “In light of this, I would request that a cruiser with the Senate Guards be dispatched to meet us, and my fleet to remain in position here until our return. I do not wish to put our young Padawans and our wounded in unnecessary danger should I be able to help it.”

Holding his blaster, Gree stood at attention outside the cell, keeping a sharp eye out when he heard the Separatist General speak. “Must not be easy, trying to work with the Senate breathing down your neck, is it, Commander?” Gree ignored him easily, not moving even as the Separatist continued talking.

“I know how they treat you. Like you and your brothers are as expendable as the droids I command. Surely there’s better things out there for you than serving a Republic that simply sends you out to die, over and over.”

“Despite such a tempting offer, General Tremaine, might I suggest that you do not waste your breath?” Gree interrupted. “While what you say may be true, my Jedi protect us. You will not shake my loyalty.”

Tremaine chuckled quietly to himself. “Yes, your Jedi… I’m sure you’ll find out the truth soon enough, and we’ll see where your loyalty gets you.” 

Gree ignored him again, seeing his Generals approaching a couple minutes after. 

“Commander.” Luminara nodded. “We intend to interrogate him, will you allow us into the cell?’

“Yes, Generals.” Gree nodded, stepping aside and pressing the button to let them through.

“Thank you.” Luminara entered the cell alongside Atlanta, Gree closing the energy barrier behind them. Atlanta leaned against the wall, watching as Luminara started to address the prisoner. “As I’m certain you have guessed, General Tremaine, we will be transporting you to Coruscant.” She stated calmly. “Once there, you will stand trial for the crimes you have committed against the Republic on behalf of the Separatist alliance. However, you have the opportunity to make things easier on yourself now by telling us what we want to know.”

After a while of silence from Tremaine, Atlanta cleared her throat, making her way forward as she drew out a knife, leaning towards him. “If you do not start talkin-” The Aearian’s words were abruptly cut off when her throat was grasped, Tremaine yanking her across the table.

“I’m not telling you anything, mermaid.”

Reacting quickly, Atlanta stabbed him straight in the shoulder, scrambling back and yanking the knife free when he released her, trying to catch her breath. “Commander, cuff him.” Luminara ordered as Gree quickly entered the cell. “And keep him restrained from now on.”

Atlanta rubbed her throat, a handprint already starting to darken the pale skin of it as she held the bloody knife. Are you alright? Luminara asked her silently as Gree cuffed Tremaine’s hands behind his back, preventing him from pulling anything of the sort again. 

Throat hurts, but it won’t kill me. 

I don’t think anything further will result of this. 

No. Let’s go inform the Council.

Gree followed them out of the cell, securing it again and resuming his post outside. “I will stay here until you are ready to transport him, Generals.”

“Well done.” Luminara nodded, leading Atlanta away to make their second call to the Council. Their call was put straight through this time, being expected, and Windu’s hologram appeared in front of them again. “Interrogating General Tremaine will not be feasible.” She stated, tone seemingly calm, Atlanta’s bruised neck quickly drawing attention. 

Windu frowned. “Understood. Are you alright, Master Nero?” 

“I am, thank you.” Atlanta confirmed with a nod.

“A cruiser has been dispatched as you requested, they should reach you in a couple of hours.” Just as Windu finished speaking, alarms started blaring loudly. Atlanta and Luminara looked at each other quickly.

“We had better go see what’s happening. We will contact you later, Master Windu.” Luminara said briskly before ending the call, the two Jedi Masters striding out of the room as Atlanta commed Gree.

“Commander, what is happening?”

“Looks like that rescue attempt you predicted, General.” Gree answered. “Droids managed to dock and get inside, Commander Legion has taken a couple of squadrons to intercept.”

Atlanta nodded sharply, lips pursing. “Request more troopers to your location as well. I suspect there must be more than just droids.”

As Gree waited tensely, watching out as more of his men patrolled the other ends of the hallway, the Commander about to call out to them when he was grasped by an unseen force, slammed harshly into the wall opposite. The Commander scrambled to recover himself as a slim, blue-gray skinned woman dropped down from the vents, activating two red lightsabers.

“Stop!” Gree yelled once he’d gotten his breath back, raising his blaster, more to get his men’s attention than with any hope of her actually listening. The Assassin’s lip curled, driving one of her lightsabers into the control panel, the force field falling.

“Or what?”

Gree didn’t bother wasting his breath further, immediately opening fire on the Sith Assassin. She deflected his shots back at him, snapping at Tremaine, “Do you wish to be rescued, or not?”

“I’m coming.” The Separatist General answered curtly as he stepped out of the cell, attempting to free himself from his cuffs. The Assassin rolled her eyes, continuing to deflect blaster-fire from Gree and his troopers as she cut through Tremaine’s cuffs with her other lightsaber, one of the returned shots catching Gree in the shoulder and sending him skidding back with a pained snarl. “Leave him, let’s go before those blasted Jedi show up.” Tremaine hissed. The assassin tossed a glare at him before the two retreated down the hall.

“General Unduli, there’s a Sith involved.” Gree growled into his commlink, disregarding his injury as he chased after them. 

The two Separatists only made it down a couple of corridors, Gree still hard in pursuit, before their path was blocked by the Mirialan Jedi. Hissing out a frustrated curse, the assassin veered sharply in another direction, splitting from Tremaine. 

“Pursue the General, Commander!” Luminara commanded Gree sharply, breaking off in pursuit of the Sith Assassin. 

When Luminara turned the corner, the Assassin seemed to be gone. She slowed, lightsaber grasped in her hand as she looked around warily, trying to decipher whether her opponent had gone down a side hall when a pair of boots connected harshly with her chest, the Assassin swinging herself down from the ceiling. Luminara caught herself against the wall, taken off guard but quickly pushing herself back to her feet, reactivating her lightsaber even as she noted this Assassin’s presence seemed… different, from the others they had encountered so far. However, she only just had time to dismiss that thought for later before the Assassin lunged at her, beginning their duel. 

Meanwhile, Barriss was reading a story to Rala, the two Padawans curled up together in their partially finished play room, looking up with wide eyes as the door slammed open. Rala squeaked in fright, the five year old Mirialan being clutched to Barriss as the older girl stood up, reaching for her lightsaber as Tremaine stood in the doorway, pointing his blaster at them. 

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.”

“Gree? Gree?!” Barriss called in slight panic, backing away from the man as he approached. Rala screamed as he lunged at them, grabbing her out of Barriss’s arms just as Gree skidded to a halt in the doorway. “No!” Barriss protested, trying to snatch Rala back, only for Tremaine to grab her throat, flinging the teenager against the wall. Barriss landed against her arm at an awkward angle, a resulting crack being heard as she crumpled to the ground with a pained cry. This enraged Gree, the Commander stalking towards Tremaine slowly after quickly signaling on his comm for a medic to come get Barriss, stopping when the man held his blaster against little Rala’s head. 

“I wouldn’t come any closer, Commander, not unless you want tragedy to follow.”

Gree snarled, bristling as he glared at Tremaine, reaching out mentally to Commander Fireside. Get up here, to behind where Tremaine is in the Jedi quarters. He told him silently. He has a blaster to Rala’s head. 

Keep him distracted, I’ll be right there. 

Gree’s wings arched threateningly, a growl rumbling low in his chest, eyes locked on the Separatist. “Now now, Commander.” Tremaine scolded mockingly, not noticing the other Alpha silently appear in the shadows behind him. “Wouldn’t want my finger to slip, now would we?”

Suddenly, Fireside threw himself forward, wrenching the blaster away from Rala’s head with a snarl. The General yelled out in anger, dropping the small Mirialan as he was knocked forward. Rala immediately scrambled to her feet, rushing to latch onto Fireside’s leg, immediately being picked up by him as the Alpha disappeared. Barriss had been retrieved as well in the chaos, leaving only Gree and Tremaine in the room.

The General had made a grave mistake indeed.

Kicking back Luminara again, the Assassin leapt backwards, the two Force users studying each other. Luminara held a defensive stance, having already decided against a full attack at this point without knowing what to expect from her opponent. “You must be Dooku’s apprentice.” She stated calmly after a moment, deciding to see if she could glean any information from her at all.

The Assassin’s lip curled slightly but she didn’t respond, lunging towards Luminara again. The Jedi blocked the blow easily, pushing back against her blades. The two stayed locked in that position for a moment, the Assassin trying to overpower Luminara to no avail, being shoved back by the Jedi just as loud footsteps were heard down the other end of the hall. 

Tremaine came pounding around the corner with Gree hot on his trail, the General having several long, bleeding scratches going down his face. Seizing the brief distraction, the Assassin kicked Luminara back again, Tremaine practically trampling over her as he fled.

“We need to go! Forget the ship, take an escape pod!” He yelled, a thunderous snarl coming from Gree. The Assassin visibly blanched at seeing how utterly furious the Commander was, immediately pelting after Tremaine. 

“What did you do?!”

“Tried to take one of the Padawans hostage. Apparently a miscalculation on my part.” Tremaine growled, brushing blood away from his eyes as they fled with the Commander and Jedi still close behind.

“Are you a fucking idiot?!” The Assassin demanded in disbelief. Tremaine chose not to answer this remark, hastily opening an escape pod and diving into it. The Assassin followed close behind, Gree’s claws scraping against the metal as the hatch closed seconds after. The pod launched away from the ship, hurtling through space. 

“That was a disaster.” Tremaine growled. The Assassin, whose name was Kisolu if he recalled correctly, turned to glare at him. 

“Do not be such an idiot, next time!”

“I wouldn’t have had to make that call if your rescue attempt had been successful from the start.”

Kisolu’s lip curled, leaning forward. “Perhaps you should not have been so foolish as to have been captured.”

“Unfortunately, it was unavoidable.” Tremaine dismissed, turning away from her as a Separatist ship swooped in to collect the pod. “Just the same, I’m certain Count Dooku will have use of the situation yet.”

Atlanta deactivated her lightsaber when the last droid was destroyed, sighing quietly as she reached out. Do we still have the General, Lumi? 

No. Luminara’s answer was grim. He and the Sith Assassin managed to steal one of the escape pods. 

Atlanta’s lips pursed. Are the girls okay?

Gree reports that General Tremaine managed to reach them and tried to take Rala as a hostage. Fireside managed to retrieve her, she’s unharmed but very upset, and Barriss’s arm is broken from trying to defend her. 

Atlanta pursed her lips tighter in a mix of anger and concern, before sighing. I’ll report this to the Council. Have you found anything out about that Assassin?

Nothing new. She was not the talkative kind. All I have to give you is her physical description- her Force presence, as well. It didn’t seem as dark as those of the Sith we’ve encountered previously. She was quite young, it appeared. 

Atlanta nodded. Well, I’ll relay that to the Council. It’s something, at least. 

Agreed- oh, dear!

Lumi?

There was quiet for a moment before Luminara’s voice reached out again. Commander Gree was shot during the fight. It appears he’s been running off adrenaline since, he just collapsed, but he’s still conscious. 

Get him to medbay as well, I’ll manage the report.

I will. Thank you, Atlanta. 

A while later, once things had been taken care of for the moment, Atlanta settled into the seat to initiate the call. The Council session had ended a while ago at this point, but a few Jedi had hung around to wait for her and Luminara’s followup report, Windu and Kit Fisto’s holograms appearing on the projector. 

“Master Nero. Is everything alright?” Windu asked her. 

“General Tremaine was freed by Dooku’s Sith Assassin.” Atlanta answered briskly. “Both managed to escape in one of the evacuation pods.”

Windu frowned. “Have you been able to track the pod?” 

“We’re in the process of doing such. It was picked up by a Separatist ship.”

“My legion is just finishing our current assignment.” Kit Fisto spoke up. “We can come and assist in tracking down the General if you wish.” 

Attention shifting to the Nautolan, Atlanta nodded in acknowledgement. “As soon as we know the pod has reached the Separatists, the tracking coordinates will be transferred to your warship. As for us, I believe we’ll be taking a temporary break. Commander Gree was wounded trying to prevent the escape, and General Tremaine attempted to take Rala hostage, breaking Barriss’s arm when she stepped in to defend her.”

Kit scowled at this last part. “Dirty trickster. Right, we’ll be waiting for the coordinates then.” 

“Have you learned anything about this assassin?” Windu questioned her. 

“Nothing that would aid in narrowing down an identification. Master Unduli says that she is young, and does not seem quite as far gone as the others we’ve encountered.”

“We’ll have to keep an eye out, then.” Kit remarked thoughtfully. “Perhaps some of our contacts can dig up some information.” 

“Possibly.” Windu agreed. “Thank you, Master Nero. You can go, I’m certain you must be anxious to check on your Padawan.” 

Atlanta nodded, giving the two Masters a polite goodbye before ending the meeting, immediately leaving the office to go to medbay. A small blur immediately collided with her legs when she entered, Rala sniffling as she was picked up.

“Master!”

“It’s ok, Rala.” Atlanta murmured, cradling her young Padawan gently as she walked over to Luminara, who was sitting beside Barriss’s bed, the older girl’s arm now in a cast. “Master Fisto is going to take over the search for Tremaine.” She told Luminara as she sat down on the opposite side. “I’ve announced we’re taking a break.”

Luminara nodded, squeezing Barriss’s hand slightly, her Padawan’s head resting on her shoulder. “That’ll be for the best.” She agreed.

Atlanta pressed her comm, contacting Fireside. “Commander, transfer the coordinates of the Separatist ship that took in the escape pod to Master Fisto as soon as they are determined. They will be taking over the search.”

“Copy that, General.” 

Chapter Text

Aeron looked down as a tiny hand latched onto his, a small smile appearing on his face at seeing the tiny Mirialan girl beaming up at him. “Hi!” Rala chirped happily, standing on her tiptoes in order to reach the trooper’s hand, hugging a doll in her other arm. 

“Hello.” Aeron chuckled slightly, bending down to pick her up. Rala immediately snuggled into his arms.

“Master ‘Lanta said we all done with lessons today.” The five year old informed him seriously. “So now we play!”

“Is that ok?” Aeron asked with a small smile. Rala nodded happily.

“Yep!”

Rala continued to chatter at him happily as she was carried down the hallway, heading towards the now completed playroom. Though it really couldn’t be called just a playroom anymore, with how much had been added now. Their Jedi Generals had wanted it to have practical uses as well, and with little Rala learning to cook as part of her basic skill training and Barriss already knowing, a miniature kitchen setup had been installed as part of the final construction. The whole room had a nice, cozy feeling to it just from the construction and decorations, further aided by the calm, soothing presences of the Jedi often occupying it.

Barriss was already inside when they entered, curled up in one of the bean bag chairs with a book, the older child looking up. “Hi Aeron, hi Rala.”

“Hello, Commander.” Aeron nodded, setting down Rala on the floor. The little Mirialan scrutinized the toys available thoughtfully before setting her doll down on the floor, scampering over to the kitchen setup and getting out a tiny cookbook, starting to leaf through it. Aeron followed her, bending down to pick up the doll so no one would trip on it.

“Make fry rice together!” Rala declared, holding up the page for Aeron to see. He nodded after a second of studying the page, straightening up.

“I’ll go get the ingredients, then.” 

Rala nodded cheerfully as Barriss got up from her seat, coming over to help the younger girl. Aeron reentered the room a few minutes later, arms full of the needed ingredients as he walked back over to them. Barriss was already helping Rala prepare the small stove and pan, supervising the younger girl carefully. 

“Thank you!” Rala told him happily as he set the ingredients down on the counter.

“You’re welcome, Commanders.” Aeron nodded. 

“You can share it with us if you help us chop and stuff.” Barriss told him. “Since I’m down an arm.” Aeron nodded in response, bending slightly to help the two girls start preparing it. “Thank you!”

When Luminara and Atlanta came to check on their Padawans a little while later, they were just finishing serving up the fried rice with Aeron’s help, Rala beaming and waving when she saw them. “Master!”

“Hello, Rala.” Atlanta smiled. “Been cooking, have you?”

“Uh huh!” Rala nodded vigorously. “Made fry rice for Aeron and Barriss! Want some too?”

“We would, thank you.” Atlanta smiled, her and Luminara both settling down on a couple of the pillows surrounding the table in the middle of the room. Rala’s smile grew even more, somehow, the child carefully dishing some of the food onto plates for the two adult Jedi as well, handing them out. 

“Here you go!”

Atlanta took hers, gently patting the girl’s head. “Thank you, Rala.”

“You welcome.” Rala answered, settling on another one of the cushions with a bowl of her own. Atlanta started eating her portion, humming after a few bites.

“You three did a good job making it.”

“Thank you!” Rala declared proudly. Luminara looked down at Barriss with a small smile when the older Padawan got her attention.

“The troopers signed my cast, Master.” Barriss told her, turning slightly to show the older Jedi the various names and doodles now covering it. 

“I see.” Luminara smiled slightly, studying it. “That was very sweet of them.”

Barriss nodded agreement happily, resuming eating her food. Another clone entered the room a couple minutes later, giving a small salute to Atlanta and Luminara when he saw them before walking over, directing a smile at Barriss. “Hey, Commander.”

“Hi, Saffron.” Barriss smiled. 

“Doing alright?” Saffron sat on one of the cushions near her, setting his helmet on the floor next to him.

“Yeah.” Barriss nodded. “Do you want this?” She asked, offering what was left in her bowl to him.

“If you’re sure you’re finished.” Saffron agreed, accepting the bowl when she nodded in confirmation. “Thank you.”

“Master Unduli, is there a Mirialan legend you can tell us?” Barriss asked, turning around to look at her Master. Luminara smiled softly at her.

“Of course, Barriss. There’s a book of legends on your shelf over there, why don’t you go get it and I’ll read one to you?”

Barriss pushed herself to her feet with her good arm, going to retrieve the book for her Master. Rala bounced to her feet as well, starting to gather up the empty dishes while Barriss did that, immediately beaming at the approving nod her tidying got from Atlanta. 

“Here you go, Master.” Barriss told her, returning with the book. 

“Thank you, Barriss.” Luminara nodded, gesturing for her Padawan to settle in beside her as Rala scampered back over, immediately climbing on Atlanta’s lap. Atlanta wrapped her arms around her, looking to Luminara as the Mirialan opened the book.

“We’ll read about Lady Kalaraja today, I think.” Luminara murmured, turning the pages. “Do you two remember what we’ve learned about her already?”

“She’s the wife of Lord Ajel, the Celestial of death.” Barriss answered. 

“That’s right.” Luminara nodded. “We call her the Mother of all Souls because of that. Do you remember anything else?”

“She has a daughter called Aqila, who’s a minor Celestial of death. And Ajel delivers justice when cruel spirits enter his realm.”

“Good.” Luminara squeezed Barriss’s good hand approvingly. “We’ll read about how Kalaraja first became one of our Celestials today. She was once a mortal, like us.”

Barriss scooted a little bit closer, looking over Luminara’s shoulder as she opened the book to the appropriate page. “Millions of years ago…” She began. “Kalaraja lived on Mirial, and served at first as an apprentice in a cathedral dedicated to Ajel. It was during her apprenticeship that she gained his affections and eventual courtship, and after five years he chose to marry her. She was appointed a priestess a year later, and their daughter, Aqila, was born a year after that. Now, having an entire realm to care for, Ajel could not stay and live out her life in the mortal realm with her as many of our Celestials with mortal husbands or wives do, but he returned and visited them as often as he could.”

“When Aqila was five years old, unfortunately, a mob came to the Cathedral where Kalaraja served.” Luminara narrated softly. “And when she tried to calm them, they killed her with stones.”

Atlanta shushed Rala gently when she gasped, leaning down to murmur in her ear. “Keep listening, ok?”

“Kalaraja was well known in her city for her kindness and compassion, and those who killed her were harshly punished. But this was not the end of her story- after all, she was wed to the Lord of Death himself.” Luminara continued. “At Kalaraja’s funeral, those gathered to mourn and bury her witnessed Ajel appearing beside her coffin. Instead of only collecting her spirit, as was expected, her entire body was transformed by him, and he made her a Celestial as well, equal to him in every way. Little Aqila was not left alone either, but was similarly transformed, and Ajel took them back to his realm. From that day forward, Kalaraja began to be seen at the bedsides of those dying, comforting them in their final moments and then gathering their spirits beneath her cloak, leading them to her final home in Ajel’s realm.”

“Sorry to interrupt, General.” Ajel started after she paused. “But… is that actually real? Or just a legend?”

“It is real.” Luminara confirmed. “Some stories have been… embellished, over the centuries, but the Celestials at the heart of them are real. We have photographs of Kalaraja appearing at people’s bedsides.”

Having hurriedly covered Rala’s mouth when the little Mirialan appeared indignant, as if she was about to blurt something out, Atlanta chided her Padawan gently as Aeron nodded in acknowledgment. “He is allowed to ask questions, Padawan. It’s curiosity, not rudeness, and we do not shun curiosity.” 

Rala looked up at her, nodding after a second. “Okay.”

“We have videos of her daughter as well.” Luminara explained to the two listening clones. “Aqila tends to the spirits of creatures who have passed on, so we have footage of her coming to collect the spirits of beloved pets and animal companions.”

“Is that why she’s called a minor Celestial of death?” Saffron asked.

“Yes.” Luminara nodded. 

“General Nero isn’t a Mirialan.” Aeron pointed out slowly after a moment. “How come she dresses like one, General?”

“Master Nero chooses to observe Mirialan culture and traditions due to growing up alongside me. We are soulsisters- do you know what that means for Aearians?” Luminara asked.

“No, General.” Saffron answered for them both, with Atlanta clarifying this time.

“We are soulmates, to put it plainly.” She answered. “Soulmates are people picked for Aearians by the Ancestors, whether they be destined to be friends, lovers, or even parental figures. It's not all romantic, and romantic soulmates are not discovered until one is at least fifteen.”

Luminara nodded. “We have been destined best friends since we were both brought to the Temple, years ago.” She gave Atlanta a small, fond smile. “Our Masters were a pair as well, so we spent our Padawan years together, and I can’t think of a time we’ve ever truly been parted.”

“For your question, anyone can, culturally, become a Mirialan.” Atlanta explained. “It is both a species and a religion. The age at which you become so doesn’t matter either. For me, I was a Youngling when I decided on it.”

Luminara nodded again, smiling slightly at the two. “We encourage questions whenever you are curious. Sharing our culture and our traditions is how our community grows, and is always a joy.”

“Is the culture why you don’t eat meat often?” Aeron asked curiously. Barriss piped up this time, eager to join the conversation.

“We’ll eat fish, sometimes, and chicken is saved for special occasions.” She explained. “But to eat beef or pork would be going against a big part of what we believe in.”

Luminara squeezed Barriss’s hand approvingly, the teenager seeming to perk up slightly at that. “That’s right, Barriss.” She murmured, continuing to explain further. “Cows are seen as companions, in the same way the Ilfirin view their Souleaters, almost. The only thing we take from them is their milk. As for pigs, not only can they not live comfortably on our cold homeworlds, they are seen as being too dirty of animals to be fit for consumption.”

“There are exceptions for special circumstances.” Atlanta added. “For example, someone may not realize they ate beef or pork, either through being tricked or not being careful enough. That is an exception, as long as they repent through prayer. Or, alternatively, some species depend on those types of meat for a massive portion of their nutrients, as you Kashgar do. That’s an exception as well.”

“Of course.” Luminara agreed.

“That is only one of the rules that aren’t to be questioned.” Atlanta stated. “The other is that headscarves or turbans aren’t to be removed around those of the opposite gender who one isn’t related to. Women can show their hair to each other, the same for men, but the opposite gender can’t see it.”

“I see.” Saffron hummed thoughtfully. “Thanks for sharing all that, Generals.”

“Of course.” Luminara agreed. “Any time, troopers.”

“Commander?” Atlanta stopped Gree a day later, on her way to the hangar. “There is something I’ll need you to spread to the other troopers.”

“Yes, General?” Gree straightened up, looking at her. 

“I am on my way to get Barriss’s surprise birthday gift. Master Unduli has decided to let her adopt a baby highland cow from Mirial, and I would like you to warn the troopers that it is in no way for hunting.”

“Of course, General, it won’t be harmed.” Gree promised. 

“Good. Thank you.”

Another day passed before Atlanta returned, Luminara waiting in the hangar bay as the small ship landed. A small smile crossed her face as the Aearian walked down the ramp, holding a fluffy white creature securely in her arms.

“Saffron was kind enough to keep her distracted.” Luminara murmured when Atlanta reached her. “They’re in the playroom. Did the little creature do alright with the flight?”

“A bit unsettled, but there was no ship sickness.” Atlanta answered, scratching the baby cow’s head as she followed Luminara, pausing to let her fasten a collar around its neck before continuing towards the playroom. 

“Barriss?” Luminara called, entering ahead of her. 

“Yes, Master?”

“Come here, Padawan-mine, we have something for you.”

Barriss stood up, putting down her book and trotting over to Luminara just as Atlanta appeared in the doorway with the mini cow. Luminara took the baby animal from her carefully, holding it down to Barriss. “Happy birthday, Padawan.”

Barriss’s eyes lit up, immediately carefully taking the little animal, clutching it to her as she buried her face into its fur. “Thank you, Masters!”

“You’re welcome, Barriss.” Luminara smiled. “Once you decide what to name it, I’ll make a tag for its collar.”

Still hugging her new pet happily, Barriss pressed her face into Luminara’s side in lieu of a hug, practically beaming. Luminara chuckled, smoothing down Barriss’s headscarf before bending over, planting a kiss on the Padawan’s head. “Why don’t you go play with your new friend? Atlanta and I are going to make your favorites for dinner.”

Barriss nodded, expression still bright as she headed over to the play area of the room and set her pet down carefully. The baby cow bellowed happily when she started to pet it, shoving its head into her hand affectionately. Barriss giggled quietly at its bellow, grinning.

“Best birthday ever.” She murmured to herself, settling down to play with her new pet.

Chapter Text

The Aearian teenager looked around as the ship flew closer to the cloud shrouded planet, leaning forward to double check the tracker. “Tremaine is still here, Master.” She told the Nautolan. 

“Good.” Kit nodded. “We’ll take a small landing party down to the surface. Between the two of us and the clones, it shouldn’t be an issue to apprehend him.”

“I’ll alert Commander Fil and his men.” The teenager agreed, turning to leave the command deck.

“Thank you, Leena.” Kit nodded. “I will contact Outer Rim Command and let them know.”

Leena trotted out of the room, going to find FIl and looking down as an astromech rolled up, following her. “Hello, R4.” The astromech whirred in response, rolling after her. “Got a mission to go to.”

R4 beeped again inquisitively. “We’re going to retrieve Separatist General Tremaine.” Leena answered its question. R4’s dome spun, the droid beeping dramatically as they approached the group Leena was looking for. “Exactly.” She nodded, turning her attention to the clones. “Commander Fil?”

“Yes, Commander?” Fil nodded, turning to face her.

“Master Fisto says that we and your squadron will take a small landing party down to the planet.”

“Understood, we’ll be ready.”

Leena turned away, looking down at the droid. “I don’t know if Master Fisto would let you come, R4.” The astromech immediately whirred indignantly at the idea of being left behind, bumping against her leg. “Hey, no, that’s rude.” Leena scolded, only for it to bump her leg insistently again. “I’m just saying I don’t think he’ll let you come!”

R4 grumbled in binary, seeming as indignant as a droid could, rolling after her. “You are spoiled.” Leena shook her head, making her way down to the hangar bay after her comm pinged with the order to gather. The astromech trailed after her determinedly as she entered it, apparently undeterred. 

“Master Fisto, R4 wants to come on the mission.” Leena told Kit as she approached the ship.

“I suppose that’s fine.” Kit agreed after a moment. “Just don’t fight with R6.”

“Here that, R4? No fighting.” Leena told the droid. R4 beeped innocently, rolling past her onto the ship. “I’m not falling for that.” Leena muttered, patting R6’s dome as she passed the more compliant astromech. 

“Are your men all ready, Commander?” Kit asked Fil.

“Yes, General.” Fil confirmed, nodding sharply. 

“Then let’s get underway.” Kit turned to address the clones as the ship lifted off, flying out of the hangar bay and towards the planet. “Our orders have been amended. We are to bring in Tremaine alive for questioning if possible, but the Senate has judged that removing him from the equation entirely would be acceptable. He is wanted dead or alive.”

“It’ll have to be alive, sir.” Fil told him. “Commander Gree’s invoked Right of Kill, for what Tremaine did to his Padawans.”

“I don’t believe I’m familiar with that, Commander.”

“Basically, Gree gets the final shot at him.” Fil explained. “And if we kill him here, it’ll be my head on the metaphorical chopping board.”

“I see.” Kit nodded. “We will do our best to bring him in alive, then.”

“Good. Gree’s not someone I want to piss off.” Fil muttered, earning a quiet chuckle from his General.

“Land a little bit away.” Kit instructed the pilot as they approached the surface. “We don’t want him to realize we’re here yet.”

“Understood, General.” The pilot answered, doing as instructed.

“Stay on your guard when we enter his base. Tremaine may not be much of a threat in straight combat, but goodness knows what kind of traps he may have laid.”

“Yes, General.” Fil acknowledged as the ship landed, the group disboarding. Kit raised a hand, the mist dissipating before them to reveal the closed door of the base, built into the side of a rock. 

“This must be the entrance.” Kit remarked as they approached.

“Well, we know how to make an entrance.” Fil said, immediately reaching for the grenade on his belt and seeming rather enthusiastic about the idea. Leena shook her head at him, taking her lightsaber off her belt.

“This’ll be quieter.” She declared.

“Settle down, you two.” Kit chuckled, studying the door and pressing on one of the panels after a moment, the doors slowly swinging open. “A second look often pays off.”

“Oh.” Fil seemed rather disappointed, placing the grenade back on his belt.

“Leena, Commander Fil, and myself will go ahead.” Kit decided. “The rest of you, hang back and wait for our signal.”

“Yes sir.” The clones agreed. Kit led the way into the base, not hindered by the darkness as they progressed down the hallway, studying the surroundings. He held up a hand after a couple minutes, signaling for the other two to stop as they heard voices up ahead.

After a moment, they progressed forward slowly, sticking to the shadows as they approached the source of the voices. As they peered into the room at the end of the hall, they spotted a group of battle droids surrounding a large chair, seemingly talking to Tremaine. Leena looked up at Kit, tilting her head in a silent question to which he nodded in response, activating his lightsaber and moving silently into the room, the battle droids immediately starting to panic at the sight of him. Leena followed his lead, activating her lightsaber as well, taking out three droids and Kit taking out the other two before the Nautolan spun the chair around to face them. Unfortunately, it was only occupied by a hologram.

“Master Fisto.” Tremaine’s lips curled into a smirk. “I’m afraid we will have to meet some other time.” He declared before the hologram disappeared, leaving only the empty chair and the tracking device from the escape pod. Leena snatched up the device, holding it tightly.

“They knew we were coming.” Kit frowned, looking at it.

“Why were we led here, then?” Leena sounded confused, trying to puzzle it out.

“A good question.” Kit replied. “We can only assume it’s a trap of some sort.” 

“Should we keep moving through this place, General?” Fil asked.

“I believe so.” Kit nodded after a moment of consideration. “There may yet be something of use. But be on your guard.”

Before they could leave the room, however, the hologram of Count Dooku appeared in the chair instead. “I apologize for the deception, Master Jedi.” The Sith stated. Kit looked rather unimpressed, folding his arms.

“Count Dooku. You have a gift for unexpected appearances.”

“It’s a shame you came so far to be frustrated.” Dooku mused. “While the General is unavailable for capture, allow me to offer you an alternative prize.” And with that, the Count’s hologram disappeared.

“Now what the hell is that supposed to mean?” Fil muttered. 

“Who would be better to capture than Tremaine?” Leena sounded baffled. “Does this mean we’re the bait?”

“Possibly.” Kit nodded at Leena. “Though I’m not inclined to take Dooku’s words at face value. This is a trap, that much is certain, but it’s becoming harder to discern who exactly it’s for.”

“Agreed. Let’s go.”

After a while of walking, Leena, out of curiosity, pressed a button for one of the doors, startling as it opened to reveal a giant statue of a warrior holding a head. “Well, that’s an interesting choice.” Fil muttered, catching sight of this over her shoulder. Leena giggled quietly, unable to stop that from escaping. She pressed the button for the door opposite, seeing the same kind of statue.

“How many more of these things do you reckon are hidden around here?” Fil mused.

“Who even knows?” Leena shrugged, pressing another door button. “That’s three now.”

“Why would they want three of the same creepy statue?” Fil muttered.

“I bet I can find more than you.” Leena declared quietly, just as Kit called their names. 

“Leena, Fil, come here.”

“Challenge accepted.” Fil muttered back quietly as they walked over to Kit, who was standing by a glass display table, quickly drawing their attention to the rows of cut braids and chains of beads inside.

“... That’s disturbing.” Leena frowned, scooping up one severed braid carefully. Kit nodded in grim agreement. 

“I believe we have been led into the lair of General Grievous.”

Leena started gathering up the braids carefully, nudging them into the small side bag she had on her. “Is this a trap for Grievous, then?” Fil frowned. “That doesn’t make sense, why would Dooku want to trap his own General?”

“Grievous recently lost the Separatists their most deadly weapon.” Leena pointed out slowly. “This could be Dooku wanting to ‘test’ Grievous, after he caused such a loss for them.”

“And we’re the guinea pigs?” Fil did not sound thrilled with that idea. 

“That would make sense.” Kit frowned deeply. “Good thinking, Leena. We must get out of here.”

“I’ll call the ship to be on standby, sir, that way we can leave as soon as we get there.” Fil said quickly as they left the room. Just as they reached the end of the corridor, though, the doors slammed down, shutting them in. 

“Just couldn’t be that easy, could it?” Fil muttered resentfully, quickly loading his blasters. Leena pulled her lightsaber out, activating it as she looked around quickly.

“I think Grievous knows we’re here, Master.”

“It looks that way.” Kit agreed, activating his as well. “Stay close, Leena.”

Leena stuck close to Kit, fully on edge as a door opened, the group of three turning around quickly to see Grievous and a few Magna Guard droids. “Fisto.” Grievous wheezed out as he stalked towards them.

“Which Fisto?” Leena mumbled to Fil, unable to help herself. Fil snorted quietly before opening fire on the Magna Guards as they started firing at them. Leena deflected shots back at the droids, keeping one eye on Grievous as he engaged Kit, the girl slicing apart the Magna Guards.

“Commander, take Leena and go.” Kit ordered sharply once the droids were dispatched, driving Grievous back temporarily. Fil grasped Leena’s arm, the teenager stumbling slightly before finding her footing as he pulled her along, the two fleeing down the hallway.

“We’ll get back to the ship, then we’ll come pick up the General.” Fil told her quickly as they ran, keeping ahold of her arm so she didn’t fall behind. Leena shook her head after a second.

“We gotta go back to the warship. Master Fisto will steal Grievous’s one, we just need to tell R6 to go find it.”

“How did he- never mind, Jedi sh-stuff.” Fil muttered, censoring himself. “Right, copy that.”

Despite the tense situation, Leena bit back a snort as they dashed along. “I’m not a Youngling, Fil, you can swear around me.”

“Yeah, no, fledgling.”

“I’m not a fledgling! I’m fifteen! I can say shit too!”

Fil choked back a snort of laughter at that declaration, pulling her towards the doors. “Come on.” Leena yanked him to a stop suddenly, attitude shifting back to serious. 

“Wait, stop.” She whispered. “Wait here.”

“What’s the matter?” Fil’s hand drifted back to his blaster.

“Stay there.” Leena whispered again. She crept towards the doors, gripping her lightsaber tightly and waving her hand silently to clear the fog, revealing the Magna Guard droids that were watching their ship. She lunged forward, dismantling the droids as fast as she could, managing to cut them all down before they had a chance to react to her presence. After a second, looking around to make sure there weren’t anymore, she gestured for Fil to come out.

“Clear?” Fil asked as he walked back up to her.

“Clear.” Leena confirmed, heading back to the ship and knocking on the ramp a couple times before backing up to let it lower. 

“Where’s the General?” One of the clones asked upon only seeing the two of them standing there. 

“He’ll get out a different way.” Leena answered, looking at R6. “Master Fisto wants you to steal Grievous’s fighter, R6.” The astromech whirred, seeming rather pleased with the notion and immediately rolling down the ramp to carry out its mission. “Wait for him to contact you!” Leena called after it before turning her attention back to the clones. “And we’re returning to the warship.”

“Yes, Commander.” The clone nodded, heading back into the cockpit.

Leena sat down inside the ship, reaching into her small bag to pull out one of the braids, exhaling quietly. “You’ll get a proper memorial.” She promised quietly, holding it carefully as she stroked it with her thumb. Fil sat beside her, squeezing her shoulder slightly.

“Alright?”

“I’m glad I’m no longer anywhere near Grievous.” Leena answered. 

“You and me both.” Fil agreed. “Not what we signed on for today.”

Placing the braid back in her bag, Leena leaned against Fil as the shuttle flew back towards the warship. Fil took off his helmet, smiling at her reassuringly. “Soon as General Fisto gets back, we’ll be outta here.”

A while later, waiting on the command deck of the warship, Leena glanced behind her as she heard the doors whizz open, seeing Kit make his way in.

“Leena.” Kit nodded, appearing completely unharmed. “You alright?”

“I am, Master Fisto.” Leena answered.

“Good.” Kit stopped beside her, squeezing her shoulder. “The clones are disposing of Grievous’s fighter, then we’ll get out of here. Wouldn’t do to fall prey to our own tricks, now would it?”

Leena giggled slightly. “No, that wouldn’t be smart.”

“Not to worry. This’ll be the last we see of this place for a while, I hope.”

Chapter Text

After their near escape from Grievous, Kit decided it would be best for the legion to take their allotted shore leave, and had set course for the planet of Atlantis. Exploring a new place without the threat of battle hanging over their heads was always a popular decision.

“Any idea what you want to see first?” Leena asked Fil as they left the warship, looking up at him. Fil shook his head.

“You’ve been here before, you said. So whatever you think is interesting.”

“There’s this Nautolan run sushi shop.” Leena decided after a second of consideration, tugging him down the street. “I’m friends with the daughter of the couple who runs it.”

“Sounds good.” Fil agreed. The two approached a small shop a little ways down the busy market street, Leena pushing the door open when they reached it and tugging Fil inside. 

“Hello!” She called.

“Oh, Leena, you’re back!” An orange skinned Nautolan girl looked up from behind the counter, sounding delighted. “Who’s your friend?”

“This is Fil.” Leena answered, gesturing to him. “Clone Commander of the 430th.”

“Lovely to meet you! I’m Ralahe, welcome in!”

“Good to meet you too.” Fil nodded with a smile.

“Can I have about…” Leena thought, humming, counting on her fingers. “Ten boxes of what I usually get?”

“Sure thing.” Ralahe agreed. “Buying for the squad?”

“Some are for various troopers.” Leena nodded. “Two are for the medics. Gotta appease them.”

Ralahe laughed. “I’ll cut you a deal, since you’re buying so many.” She offered. Leena arched an eyebrow, tilting her head.

“What’s the deal?”

“Mama’s birthday is in a couple weeks.” Ralahe explained. “And I’m making her a necklace. If you can bring me back some pearls and seashells, I’ll trade you three of the boxes for them. Four if you find a lot of good ones.”

Leena considered that, then grinned. “Challenge accepted.” Ralahe grinned back at her.

“I’ll get started on your order, then. You wanna come pick it up in a couple hours?”

“Sounds good.” Leena confirmed. “See you then.” 

“Shops accept trading around here, then?” Fil asked Leena as they left the shop, starting to head for the beach. 

“Uh huh.” Leena nodded. “It was put in place so struggling families could still buy stuff.”

“Good to know.”

Reaching the water’s edge after a bit more walking, Leena dove in, disappearing beneath the waves, legs fusing together into a dark green tail. Fil only took a second to put on his scuba helmet before following her in. “So we’re looking for pretty shells, and pearls.” Leena stated, swimming along the sandy bottom. “Also, if at any point you see a bright blue snake, please alert me.”

“Will do.” Fil nodded before tilting his head slightly. “Why?”

“Because that would be a Taipan Krait, one of Atlantis’s most dangerous creatures. Highly poisonous and actively aggressive, can kill one in thirty minutes to an hour if an antidote isn’t administered in time. Best to avoid it.”

Fil frowned slightly. “Right… I think I can handle a snake, though.”

“A normal one, yes. These ones are freaks. Their entire body, every last part, needs to be destroyed, or they regenerate. There’s specific squads trained to deal with them, as they’re that dangerous.”

“Better safe than sorry, then.” Fil agreed.

“Any bright blue at all, we need to move on.” Leena added.

“Copy that.”

After a while of searching, the two came out onto the beach, both sitting on the sand together. Leena laid back, stretching out under the warm sun with a hum and closing her eyes while Fil stayed sitting up, watching the waves.

“It’s a gorgeous planet.” He remarked. “I see why you and General Fisto come here all the time.”

Leena nodded, smiling, feeling a small weight settle onto her bare stomach and looking up. When she opened her eyes, a tiny, shark shaped creature blinked up at her, having apparently decided that on top of her was a suitable nesting spot. “Hello.” She smiled, immediately reaching down to stroke it. 

“What’s this thing?” Fil asked curiously, studying it. 

“It’s a Shore Kitten, which is a baby Shore Cat.” Leena answered. “They’re both wild and domesticated. This must be a wild one.”

“Friendly, then?” Fil asked, immediately reaching to pet it. 

“It is.” Leena confirmed as he stroked it carefully, prompting a purr from the creature. 

“Cute little thing.” Fil looked over his shoulder, spotting a creature that resembled a crab, except it had paws. “What’s this one?” He asked, reaching towards it- it looked friendly enough- only to immediately yelp when tiny claws sank into his finger. Leena immediately burst out laughing, earning an indignant glare from him. 

“Shut up!” Fil protested, trying to shake the creature off as it clung to his finger.  “The hell- let go, you stupid crab!” He yelled at it as Leena continued to howl with laughter, legs kicking against the sand as Fil cursed and shouted. “Stop laughing, Leena!” He complained indignantly, finally managing to pry the crab off, tossing it away from himself. 

“Y-you okay?” Leena giggled. 

“I’m fine, no thanks to you.” Fil grumbled, examining where the crustacean had clawed him. Leena giggled again, unable to help it, prompting him to roll his eyes. “Oh, shut up.” He pushed himself to his feet, going back towards the water to look for more shells to add to their collection. Leena scooped the Shore Kitten off of her, placing it back on the sand as she got up, prompting it to squeak angrily and immediately claw its way back up her leg, clinging to her swim skirt. It growled, continuing to cling to her stubbornly as she reentered the water. 

“I’ve got a follower.” Leena told Fil as she dove back under, the Shore Kitten still clinging on tightly. 

“I see that.” Fil laughed, starting to search the sand below them for shells. After a bit of the two of them sifting through it, he uncovered a clam, lifting it up to examine curiously.

“That’s a clam.” Leena told him.

“Those are good to eat, aren’t they?”

“Yep.” Leena nodded. “You can also find pearls inside. I’ll show you how to do it.”

“Alright.” Fil agreed, scooping up a couple seashells to add to the net they were using to carry their finds before following her back to the shore, the two of them sitting on the sand again.

“See the middle part?” Leena showed him. “You’ve gotta get your fingers in there somewhat, and then… pull. Like this.” She demonstrated. “Before eating, we gotta see if there’s any pearls in this. You try looking in your half, by feeling around for any lumps.” Fil nodded, locating a couple in his half of it after a moment, cleaning them off and adding them to their collection.

“Wow, this clam has a lot of pearls.” Leena muttered, adding hers to the net as well. 

“Do they normally have so many?” Fil asked. 

“Normally, a clam has only one.” Leena answered. “I suppose this one is so big it can have more.” Fil nodded, double checking there weren’t any more before starting to take out his half of the meat, Leena hastily stopping him. “No, no, you eat it while it's still on the shell.” She took the clam, proceeding to do so with her half.

“Got it.” Fil chuckled, waiting for her to finish before taking it back, eating his half in the same manner while Leena turned her attention to the Shore Kitten curled up in her lap, stroking it. “You could get used to spending days like this.” Fil remarked once done, leaning back to look up at the sky. Leena nodded, smiling a bit. 

“The Consortium planets are some of the best to visit. Master Fisto brings me here all the time.”

“Are you from here?”

Leena hummed a bit quietly. “We don’t know where I’m from.” She admitted. “Master Fisto rescued me from a slaver’s ship when I was one year old. The only thing that’s certain is my first name is Leena, as Master Fisto says that’s what the Force tells him.”

“I see.” Fil nodded.

“Before the war happened, Master Fisto actually promised to take me looking for where I came from. But that’s been put on hold for now, until the war’s over.”

“I hope you can find out.”

“Thank you.” Leena smiled slightly, nodding.

“Honestly thought the General was your father.” Fil remarked. “Given the last names and the way you two interact.”

Leena’s lips twitched a bit. “Master’s Fisto’s my soulmate, a platonic one. Soul father, basically. As for the last name, Fisto is a common Nautolan name. He did adopt me, unbeknownst to the Senate, but they can’t claim he’s breaking the parent rule since Fisto is such a common name, and I am half Nautolan. As a matter of fact, Jedi can’t technically take their biological children as Padawans. But if the Padawan has, say, not got their name on the birth certificate, it’s perfectly normal to look the other way and pretend it’s not known.”

Fil chuckled. “I see.” He shook his head slightly. “Starting to think the Longnecks didn’t know anything at all, the way they carried on about the Jedi. Honestly, a lot of us expected uptight sticklers from the way they talked about you.”

Leena giggled a bit, shaking her head too. “Practically no Jedi is like that.”

“I’m glad about that.” Fil laughed. “Most of us like what we got a lot better.” 

“We’re back!” Leena called as they reentered the sushi shop, Shore Kitten perched on top of her head and the net full of shells in one hand, Fil carrying a smaller one with some they’d decided to keep for themselves.

“Oh, perfect, I’ve just finished your order!” Ralahe grinned, waving to them.

“Here you go.” Leena held out the filled net. “The Shore Kitten is mine, though.”

Ralahe laughed, taking the net and starting to look through it. “I’ve already got two, I don’t think I’d have room for another.”

“Just ensuring you knew that.” Leena giggled. “There’s plenty of pearls and shells to choose from. I hope your Mama likes her necklace.”

“Thank you, this is perfect.” Ralahe grinned. “I can definitely give you the four boxes for these.”

“How much are the other six?” Leena asked, pulling out her purse.

“Eighteen credits altogether.” Ralahe answered, bagging up the boxes for her. Leena nodded, pulling out two ten credit chips and placing them in the Nautolan girl’s hand. “You guys heading straight back to your ship, or are you gonna look around more?” Ralahe asked, entering the amount in her register and handing Leena back her change. “We’ve got some charms I can throw in the bags to keep the sushi cold while you’re walking around.”

“We’re gonna look around.” Leena decided. “So the charms are appreciated, thank you.”

“Let me grab them.” Ralahe nodded, ducking under the counter and standing up a second later, holding a couple simple, wooden tags with a rune carved in them, tossing one in each of the bags. “That should do it. You staying long this time?”

“Two weeks, I’m pretty sure.” Leena hummed. “Last mission, me and Fil had an unexpected encounter with the Jedi killer Grievous, and Master Fisto had to stay behind to face him. He decided we needed a holiday after that.”

“Oh, that sounds like entirely too much danger.” Ralahe agreed. “Come by after the shop closes one of these nights, we can go to the water park.”

“Sounds good!” Leena nodded. “I’ll swing by tomorrow.”

“Great! I’ll see you then, have fun!” 

The two left the sushi shop, resuming walking down the street towards the center of the town, before Leena brightened when the sound of music reached them. “There’s a fan dance going on, c’mon!” She exclaimed, hurrying towards the music.

“What’s that?” Fil asked, easily keeping up with her as they joined where a small crowd of people were gathered. Leena gestured towards a group of brightly dressed women, who held elaborate fans and long ribbons that floated through the air with their movements. “Oh, I see.” Fil smiled, standing just behind Leena as they stopped near the front of the crowd. 

“The square owners pay them to do this.” Leena explained to him. Fil nodded, looking half mesmerized as he watched the dancers. One of the women twirled up to them, suddenly placing a kiss on Fil’s cheek, causing him to startle slightly as she danced away again. 

“It’s part of the show.” Leena explained quietly when he looked at her. “It’s nothing personal, and doesn’t mean anything.”

Fil hummed slightly, nodding, Leena’s point being proven a moment later by another one of the dancers planting a kiss on Leena’s cheek next, the woman pausing to pat the Shore Cat sleeping on Leena’s head before twirling away again. “See?” Leena smiled slightly. “Actual touching isn’t allowed, though. It’s just part of their job.”

“Makes sense.” Fil nodded, turning his attention to the end of the performance. Leena tossed her change into the money box for the dancers, before tugging Fil along as they continued. 

“Anything else you think you’ll want to see?”

“Let’s just walk around a bit and see if anything catches our eye.” Fil suggested. “We’ve got time.” 

After a while of exploring the market, Fil and Leena returned to the warship, as the sky started to dim for sunset. Kit smiled at them when they returned, standing and talking with some of the troopers. 

“You two were gone a while. Have fun?”

“We did, General.” Fil nodded, holding the bags of sushi now.

“We got some sushi to share with the others.” Leena added.

“Sounds like a good day.” Kit smiled. “And I’m sure they’ll enjoy that.”

Head resting on Fil’s shoulder, Leena started to drift to sleep, the Shore Kitten curled into a tiny ball on her lap. Fil smiled at her fondly, adjusting position slightly to wrap his wing around the teenager, about to close his eyes and rest as well when he noticed something- a new bond, another connection that hadn’t been there before. After a moment, he mentally poked at the connection curiously, trying to figure out who was on the other side of it. Immediately after he poked it, Leena stirred, yawning and looking around sleepily. 

Fil looked down at her, raising an eyebrow slightly and poking at the connection again. Leena’s face scrunched up slightly in sleepy annoyance, a mental swat being felt back at him in response. He chuckled quietly. 

“Alright, alright, I’ll stop.”

Leena closed her eyes again, resting her head back on his shoulder. He let her doze off again, smiling slightly as he considered the new bond. It was stronger than the pack ones he had with his squadrons, and he had a faint suspicion that if he asked, he’d be the only one who had a bond with the Padawan. 

That was fine by him, though. He’d always wanted a little sister.

Chapter Text

The blue Twi’lek hummed thoughtfully, frowning deeply as she stood around the console with a few clones, not looking behind her as a second blue Twi’lek approached from behind, a small holo-recording of General Grievous projected in front of them.

“Have we decrypted the transmission?” Aayla asked, stopping alongside her near identical sister.

“Almost, General.” One of the clones answered, before the cyborg general’s image finally started moving, words coming through, first in the new Assassin’s voice. 

“All is ready, General.”

“Excellent!” Grievous rasped. “Kamino must fall if we are to win this war.”

“We will attack Tipoca City first. I have the exact locations of both the clone barracks and the DNA room.”

“Make sure you uphold your end of the plan, Assassin.” 

The young woman’s tone turned sharper at this. “We are both in charge of this mission, by order of my Master. Do not presume you can order me around.”

“I do not presume anything. My fleet will be in position.” The transmission cut out here, Grievous’s hologram flickering out of view. 

“So, Tipoca City is their goal. Presumably to steal the clone DNA.” The first Twi’lek, Shiri, mused with a frown, looking to her sister. 

“They must have something sneaky planned.” Aayla frowned thoughtfully. “I did not think Dooku was foolish enough to attempt a full assault.”

“Forgive me, General, but Kamino is where so many of our siblings still are.” Commander Bly interrupted. “If the Separatists think they can get away with this, it’s our duty to stop it.”

“I wouldn’t dream of doing otherwise, Commander.” Aayla answered with a nod. “We were assigned to investigate and I intend to follow through now that we’ve uncovered this. I will make contact with the Council and see who can be spared to assist us.”

“Understood, General.” Bly nodded.

“Come on, Shiri.” Aayla said to her sister, the two making their way out of the command deck and towards the office they shared. After Aayla had pressed the button to initiate the call, a small holoprojection of a clone appeared. 

“Hello, this is Holdup. How can I help you?”

Aayla’s lips twitched slightly, nodding to the clone. “Hello, Holdup. Is the Council in session?”

“Yes, General.” Holdup nodded. “I’ll transfer you now.”

“Thank you, trooper.” Aayla smiled before his hologram disappeared, being replaced with the forms of the Council. “Masters.”

“Knight Secura.” Windu acknowledged. “Have you discovered anything?”

“We have, Master Windu.” Aayla nodded. “We’ve succeeded in decoding the intercepted transmission, and have learned that the Separatists intend to attempt an invasion of Kamino. Our men are quite anxious to defend their siblings there, and Shiri and I intend to make our way there with all possible speed. We’re calling to ask for reinforcements, as this certainly won’t be any small attack.”

“I am near that sector.” Zeafe Fisto spoke up, her holoprojection sitting in her chair. “My legion can make their way there.” 

“Do so.” Windu nodded. “Kamino is not somewhere we can afford to lose, either from the standpoint of the war as Generals or as Jedi. The Separatists will show no mercy to the young cadets or unborn clones in that facility.”

“We will meet you there, Knights Secura.” Zeafe told the sisters, the Nautolan’s holoprojection then disappearing, presumably to give orders.

Allowing herself a moment of levity now that the serious matter had been addressed, Aayla smiled. “I see you found a solution to the influx of reporters and Senate complaints, Master Windu.”

The Koraduran’s lips twitched a slight bit at that, nodding. “Yes.” He confirmed. 

“I’m certain Holdup will do a good job.” Aayla chuckled quietly. “I will contact you again when there is more to report. Goodbye for now, Masters.”

Ladybug strode down the long, white hallway alongside her brother, the ARC trooper holding her helmet under her arm. “Feels odd to be back so soon, doesn’t it?” She mused.

“Feels just like yesterday.” Wasp agreed, keeping pace with Ladybug. “Shame it’s not under better circumstances.”

“Yeah.” Ladybug nodded, smiling at a group of young cadets as they walked past. Hearing blasters clatter to the ground, Wasp’s eyes landed on a white feathered, hunched over Kashgar. 

“Oh, Ninety-nine!” He called, making his way over to help pick up the blasters.

“Oh, hello Wasp.” 99 smiled. “I wasn’t expecting to see you two back so soon after redeploying.”

“It’s good to see you.” Wasp told him, placing the blasters back in the older Kashgar’s arms.

“You too.” 99 adjusted the blasters, making sure he wouldn’t drop them again. “What brings you back?”

“Unfortunately, nothing good.” Wasp admitted. “The Separatists are planning to invade Kamino.”

“We’re here to stop them, though.” Ladybug added.

“Exactly.” Wasp nodded. “We’ll stop them.”

“I know you will.” 99 agreed. “How can I help?”

“Oh, no- no offense, Ninety-nine, but you should probably just stay safe.” Wasp explained carefully. “Just so the Separatists don’t get a chance to kill you.”

Ladybug nodded in agreement. “Us and the Jedi will take care of things, don’t worry.” 

Zeafe frowned thoughtfully as she studied the projected map, her tendrils twisting and wriggling as she considered it, arms folded.

“What is bothering you?” Shaak asked her.

“This is what Grievous calls a full front attack?” Zeafe responded quietly, doubt evident in her tone.

“Perhaps he underestimated our defenses.” Shaak suggested optimistically.

“No.. there must be more than this.” Zeafe tilted her head. “I think I’d like to check something out.”

“Do whatever you believe is necessary.” Shaak nodded, turning her attention back to the map.

“Commander Rowan, stay here.” Zeafe instructed her Commander before turning and striding out of the command center, going to investigate the suspicion forming in her mind. 

Zeafe pulled off her cloak as she approached the doors to the outside, leaving it just inside the building before going outside, heading for the edge of the platform as debris from the space battle above continued to fall down, splashing loudly and sinking as it hit the water. Reaching it, she jumped over the side, diving into the water and swimming down. 

As she dove deeper, movement caught her eye below her, near one of the floating pieces of debris. Upon closer inspection, it appeared to be an aqua droid, assembling some form of assault craft. Zeafe’s expression tightened, reaching out through the Force. Master Ti, it’s as I thought. There will be an attack coming from underwater.

We will prepare our defenses for that, then. Thank you, Zeafe.

Turning around, Zeafe swam back up the way she had come, launching herself high out of the water when she emerged, propelling herself up with the Force to land neatly on the platform. Stepping beneath the overhang, she took a moment to wring the water out of her clothes, retrieving her cloak before striding back inside to the command center. Shaak was calmly but rapidly giving orders when she got there, dispatching Commanders, Captains, and Sergeants to various positions around the facility, trying to cover anywhere the Separatists might try to breach. Shaak turned to Zeafe once done, nodding to her.

“I’ve called the Secura sisters back down from the space battle to assist us here. When the Separatists launch their assault, we’ll be ready.”

“Good.” Zeafe nodded, studying the map. “I don’t believe the aqua droids spotted me, so they don’t know they’ve lost the element of surprise.”

“Excellent. Good work.” 

Holding his blaster tightly, Wasp stopped mid step when Commander Hammer called out to him and Ladybug, gesturing them over. “I have an assignment for you two.”

“What is it, sir?” Wasp asked, the two ARCs stopping in front of the Commander. 

“I want you both on the bridge in sniper positions.” Hammer instructed. “It’ll be dangerous, but the more of those droids we can get rid of before they get inside, the better.”

“Yes sir!” They both nodded sharply, dashing off in that direction.

“Bet I can shoot down more than you.” Ladybug muttered to her brother.

“Pfff, you wish.” Wasp snorted, shaking his head.

“Yeah? We’ll see about that.” Ladybug chuckled. 

Taking a spot on the bridge when they’d reached it, Wasp knelt behind the wall, aiming his blaster over the edge of it. Ladybug took up a similar position, looking through her scope as they waited for the droids to come into range, hearing the sounds of the assault craft drilling into buildings and the noise of battle in the distance. 

“Here they come.” Wasp murmured after ten minutes, the two immediately starting to shoot down the droids as they approached, both keeping count under their breath as they rapidly fired. 

“There aren’t enough droids here to take the city.” Aayla realized, deflecting blaster shots as she and her sister fought alongside Zeafe. “They’re distracting us.”

“The transmission said something about the DNA room!” Shiri recalled. 

“Can you handle the droids here?” Aayla asked Zeafe. 

“I can.”

“Then Shiri and I will go defend the DNA room.” Aayla determined. “Let’s go!”

Just as the two Twi’leks reached the room, they saw that the Sith Assassin had already made it there, the young woman holding a small, but incredibly valuable, vial. Aayla immediately activated her lightsaber, stopping in the doorway. “Put down the sample, Assassin.”

The Assassin turned around, pulling out her lightsaber in response. “I don’t think so.”

Aayla darted forward, her lightsaber clashing against the Assassin’s, who shoved her back, alternating quickly between the two sisters as they attacked, until she managed to switch their positions and dash from the room. 

“Stop her!” Aayla shouted, chasing after the Assassin as she fled down the hallway, Force shoving the clones who tried to stop her out of the way. Shiri, there’s a shortcut up ahead. Aayla told her sister through the Force. Loop around and cut her off. 

Got it.

This was one duel they could not afford to lose. 

Blazer gripped his blaster tightly, the Kamino Guard chasing after a group of droids that had tried to flee deeper into the facility, stepping out of the second elevator and immediately opening fire, taking them all out before finally getting a better look at his surroundings. This area of the facility was unfamiliar, through having the same bland white walls and sterile lighting as everywhere else. It seemed darker, almost, as if they wanted it to be harder to tell what was down here. 

He hesitated, realizing he must have entered one of the restricted areas of the facility, and should no doubt turn back, but…

After a second of deliberation, the trooper started forward, curiosity getting the better of him, before feeling the sudden prick of a dart in the back of his neck. Head immediately feeling fuzzy, the trooper started to sway slightly, hearing a muffled voice behind him before his vision went black. 

“Ha! Fifty-five!” Ladybug declared triumphantly, shooting down yet another droid from her hiding place. 

“Fifty-seven for me!” Wasp countered smugly, looking over his shoulder when shuffling footsteps were heard behind them, spotting 99.

“Ninety-nine, what are you doing out here?” Lady immediately exclaimed worriedly, looking up as well. 

“I brought you some more ammo.” 99 answered, hurrying over to them. Wasp started to scold him, before five small figures caught his attention.

“Fledglings-?!”

“We were told to go back to the barracks!” One of the cadets said hurriedly. “But with all the fighting and damage, we got lost.”

Wasp glanced at Ladybug, grimacing behind his helmet. “We gotta get the cadets and Ninety-nine to safety.”

Ladybug nodded. “I think we’ve cleared out enough of these that the others can handle them now.”

“This way.” Wasp instructed, gesturing for them all to follow him and Ladybug as they left their positions.

“Follow your brother, cadets.” 99 encouraged, ushering them along as Ladybug dropped back to cover them.

“What are your names?” Wasp asked as he led them into the building. “I’m Wasp, and that’s Ladybug.”

“I’m Mowgli.” The little Alpha answered. “The sisters are Ella and Yzma, and then these two are Abu and Bambi.”

“It’s nice to meet you five.” Wasp answered, smiling slightly. The cadets nodded shyly, hurrying after Wasp as Ladybug and 99 ushered them along. 

Halfway there, loud footsteps were heard, a red and gray armored trooper skidding to a stop when her eyes landed on the five cadets. “Sergeant Whiplash!” Ladybug recognized her instantly, saluting. Whiplash gave the troopers a curt nod before kneeling down, attention focused on the cadets.

“Are you five alright?”

“We’re okay!” Ella answered, the two little girls dashing over to their trainer. Whiplash caught them both, hugging them briefly before standing up.

“Let’s get you five back to the rest, and you too, Ninety-nine.”

“Right.” 99 nodded, taking Abu and Bambi’s hands. “Come on, you two, nearly there now.”

“Wasp and I will cover you.” Ladybug told Whiplash, earning another nod of acknowledgement. Mowgli grasped his sisters’ hands, tugging them along as the Sergeant led them back towards the barracks. 

Whiplash suddenly backtracked, muttering a curse as she spread her arms out, stopping the others. “Droids.” She muttered. “Dammit. Do you two have any grenades?”

“I’ve got one.” Ladybug answered, taking it off her belt. Whiplash took it and pulled out the pin, tossing it around the corner, peeking back out after it had exploded.

“Dammit. That wasn’t even close to getting all of them.” Whiplash muttered, the high pitched, panicked screams of the droids being heard in the aftermath.

“I haven’t got anymore.” Wasp stated, frowning. 

“I know a shortcut from here to the armory.” 99 offered quickly. “We can get more there.” Whiplash pursed her lips under her helmet before nodding sharply.

“Let’s go, quickly.”

“This way.” 99 shielded the cadets with his wings, holding their hands as he led the group along as quickly as he could.

“Stop-” Whiplash instructed hastily upon hearing a noise ahead as they neared the armory, moving forward and muttering a curse. “Kanerth dammit, more clankers.”

“How many?” Ladybug asked, arming her blaster.

“Six.” Whiplash answered, thinking quickly. “Us three will take them out. You cadets stay right here, and Ninety-nine, when the coast is clear, get inside the armory.”

“Got it.” 99 nodded. Whiplash and the two ARCs strode out into the hallway, immediately opening fire on the droids. After a firefight which lasted about two minutes, all six droids had been destroyed, lying in sparking pieces on the floor as Whiplash gestured sharply to 99 to move towards the armory. 99 hurried forward, leaving the cadets behind where they were relatively safe as he made his way over- only for a second, larger group of droids to come around the corner seconds after he’d left their cover.

“Fuck-” Whiplash dashed forward, spreading her wings out as she blocked 99 from sight, opening fire on the new group. 

“Hurry!” Ladybug urged 99, providing cover fire for him as well as the droids immediately started shooting back. 

Whiplash hissed loudly as one shot hit her shoulder between the armor plates, consequently dropping her blaster, yanking out a knife instead as she lunged at the droids, stabbing at the exposed parts and punching their heads back. Ladybug and Wasp continued firing, providing cover for 99, the older clone halfway to the doors when one of the droids landed another lucky shot on Whiplash.

Staggering back a step, Whiplash snarled again, redoubling her attack until her wrist was grabbed by a droid and twisted sharply, a resounding crack being heard as it broke. She shrieked angrily, her own knife being shoved into her neck by the droid a second later, the Kashgar crumpling to the floor.

“Sergeant!” Ladybug shouted, doubling her fire as Commander Colt and one of the 327th Commanders came down the hall behind them. Wasp cursed, not noticing the two yet, both still trying to cover 99 as he reached the doors, ducking inside the armory as the Commanders rushed forward to join the two ARCs.

Grabbing a bag of grenades, 99 hurried out again, tossing a couple of them down the hall into the middle of the group of droids, the combination quickly whittling down the number until there were none left standing. Ladybug lowered her blaster, rushing over to where Whiplash had collapsed, the knife still stuck into the Sergeant’s neck. She hauled her up with a grunt, starting to drag her back towards the armory as Colt went towards the cadets’ hiding place.

“Follow me, cadets.” Colt instructed, gesturing them forward. “It’s clear now.” The group of five followed Colt, all holding onto each other as they filed into the armory. “Tequila, watch the door.” He told the other Commander, who nodded in response. Taking a moment to survey the group for injuries, Colt then turned his attention to Whiplash, pulling the knife from her neck as his tendrils unfurled from his back, starting to trace over the wound and close it up. A moment later, his comm vibrated, a small holoprojection of Shaak appearing when he answered it. 

“Are you uninjured, Commander?” She asked.

“I’m fine, General.” Colt answered. “Commander Tequila and I just made it to the armory.”

Shaak nodded, studying the Commander briefly before speaking. “This battle is over.” She stated. “The DNA has been retrieved from their agent, and the Separatist forces are fleeing.”

“That’s a relief.” Colt nodded, exhaling. “Thank you, General. I’ll start organizing efforts to repair the damaged areas and tend our wounded.”

“Very good, Commander. Thank you.”

Chapter Text

Shiri broke off a biscuit from the freshly baked batch, passing one to Aayla and then one to the tiny blue and white Twi’lek sitting on Aayla’s lap, the sisters looking up at hearing a knock at the door. “Come in!” Aayla called, setting down her biscuit on her plate. The door was pushed open by Bly, with Tequila close behind him as the two Commanders entered.

“Commanders.” Aayla greeted with a smile, bouncing her Padawan on her lap gently. “Everything alright?” Little Irami giggled quietly as she was bounced, snuggled up to her Master as Bly responded.

“There’s some questions a few of the shinies had, General, that they were too shy to ask. So we’ve come to ask for them.”

“Oh, certainly!” Aayla agreed, gesturing to a couple of cushions surrounding the low table. “Come join us, we were just waiting for the tea to finish.” 

Bly sat down on one of the pillows, followed by his brother as Shiri passed biscuits to each of them. “We’re happy to answer whatever questions you have.” She told them with a smile.

“Thank you.” Tequila nodded, accepting the biscuit and setting it on the plate in front of him. When the tea was ready, Shiri retrieved two more cups and placed them in front of the Commanders before retrieving the kettle, pouring hot water into each of the tea cups before putting milk into a smaller cup for Irami. 

“What did you want to ask about?” Aayla asked, once her sister had taken a seat beside her. 

“Partly about… what happened earlier.” Bly decided on. “With those people. Is it common?”

Earlier in the day, while stopped on a city planet to resupply, Aayla and Shiri had come close to being attacked by a group of anti-war protestors. Neither of them had been hurt, thankfully, managing to deescalate the situation and flee, but it certainly wasn’t a good experience. Aayla grimaced slightly.

“Unfortunately. It wasn’t nearly so bad in the past, but the war seems to have greatly worsened opinions of the Order, on top of all the original misconceptions.”

“People fear what they can’t understand.” Shiri added. “And that fear drives them to act in foolish ways.”

“I’m only thankful that group wasn’t as violent as some.” Aayla patted her Padawan’s little head absentmindedly. 

“What are some common misconceptions?” Bly asked.

“That the Jedi are child stealers.” Shiri answered, biting into her biscuit. “Parents have a choice to give their child to us. They are warned of the dangers it could lead to if they aren’t, but should they be firm in their decision, that is accepted and we leave them be.”

Aayla chuckled wryly. “Sometimes I wonder if that particular rumor is perpetuated by slavers begrudging us for the children we’ve freed from them.”

“What kind of dangers would result if a child wasn’t given to the Jedi?” Tequila asked. Shiri hummed thoughtfully. 

“That answer ties into why we need to be mindful of our emotions.” She explained after consideration. “Children, young ones especially, are prone to tantrums. And with Force Sensitive ones, that can be dangerous. The Force is destructive if used wrong or without thinking. If Irami here-” She tapped the nose of the little girl, earning a giggle. “-Decided to throw a tantrum, it could result in serious injuries. Allow me to demonstrate.” Raising her hand, she lifted up a metal chair and then clenched her fist, causing it to crumple up into a ball of crushed metal. “Now, while it wouldn’t be my Force strength most times, imagine if that chair was a person caught up in a tantrum.”

“Right.” Tequila nodded. “Not a good situation.”

“Exactly.” Shiri confirmed. “Of course, we do get angry, more often than you would think. But letting our anger control us is disastrous. Anyway, get back to the topic of us being ‘child stealers,’ quite a lot of Jedi are allowed contact with their birth families, and getting in touch with our home cultures is encouraged. It’s even plausible the Jedi are only given partial custody instead of full.”

Bly nodded slowly, considering that. “Are there any Jedi who were rescued from slavers as Younglings?” He asked curiously. 

“Quite a few.” Aayla answered. “Knight Skywalker and his sisters were rescued from slavers on Tatooine. Master Fisto’s Padawan, Leena, was rescued when she was just an infant. I believe even Master Unduli was rescued as a child as well, among others. The Jedi have always been active in the fight against slavery.”

“There is a third category as well.” Shiri added. “Parents who can’t accept their child is Force sensitive, seeing such as a curse. They are also likely contenders for calling us child stealers.”

“Yes…” Aayla agreed with a small frown. 

“Why would anyone see it as a curse?” Tequila sounded baffled by the idea.

“Fear of the unknown.” Shiri shook her head. “It varies quite a lot. It is sad they’ll never understand, but you can only help people that want to be helped.”

“I suppose so.” Tequila agreed reluctantly.

“Any more questions?” Shiri wondered.

“Some of the shinies were puzzling over the sayings about the Jedi not allowing attachments.” Bly answered, taking a sip of his tea. “Trying to figure out what was meant by that.”

“We don’t do attachments.” Shiri confirmed. “But we do love. They are not the same thing.”

“Attachments can be unhealthy, and lead to a refusal to let go or move on.” Aayla agreed. “Which in turn can lead to the Dark Side. Rather comes back to what we were discussing about emotions, actually. We feel the anger, sadness, or whatever it may be, we acknowledge it, and then we let it go. Give it back to the Force and don’t let it fester.”

“We’re taught about it from a young age.” Shiri nodded. “Being that young, it’s in the form of toys, really. We only have three allocated personal toys, and we have to share the rest. We can’t be greedy and try keeping them to ourselves. The same goes for people.”

“Padawans have to learn to let go of their Masters, and then of their own Padawans when it comes time.” Aayla added. “We always love them, of course. But if we held on forever, they would never have any room to grow.” She smiled affectionately at little Irami as she said this. The small Padawan wriggled, clambering down off Aayla’s lap and toddling around to Bly, holding her arms up in a silent demand. Bly’s lips twitched, setting down his teacup and picking her up carefully.

“Hi there.”

“Hi!” The tiny Jedi chirped. 

“Looking for attention?” Bly chuckled slightly, bouncing the toddler gently. Irami giggled quietly, cuddling into his arms as she beamed up at the Commander. 

“Oh, that reminds me.” Aayla looked at her sister. “We’d better get a crib set up for your little Padawan, Shiri, we’ll be reaching Coruscant in the next couple days.”

“Oh, right.” Shiri nodded. “We just need to build it, I’ve already gotten one. I was thinking she’ll share Irami’s room so they’ll have each other for company.”

“That’s a good idea.” Aayla agreed. “Irami’s been quite clingy lately, she’ll like having a friend nearby.”

“You’re getting a Padawan too, General Shiri?” Tequila asked, his brother still focused on the tiny Twi’lek in his arms. 

“I am.” Shiri nodded. “A young Ilfirin girl, called Demetria Rose. She’s only just older than Irami.”

Tequila smiled. “I can’t wait to meet her, then. Do you need any help putting together the crib for her?”

“Help would be appreciated, thank you.” Shiri nodded again. 

“No problem at all.”

“It’s been a nice talk, Generals, but we need to get back to our duties.” Bly stated, passing Irami back to Aayla. 

“Of course.” Aayla agreed with a smile. “Come by any time, Commanders, and tell the shinies the same. We’re happy to answer any questions or just talk.”

“Thank you, General.”

“Hm, that’s odd.” Shiri noted quietly, starting to clear up once they were gone.

“What is it?” Aayla looked up, holding her Padawan’s little hands. 

“They didn’t eat their biscuits.” Shiri picked them up, showing her.

Aayla hummed. “Maybe they just forgot. We were pretty deep in conversation there.” 

“Possibly.” Shiri murmured, dismissing it after a second and offering one of them to Aayla. She took it, breaking off half for Irami. 

“Anyway, what were we talking about before?”

A few days later, the 327th had reached Coruscant, and Shiri made her way into the Temple to collect her new Padawan. An old, Ilfirin woman was supervising the Younglings playing inside when Shiri entered the creche, a smile crossing her face upon seeing the Twi’lek Knight. “Shiri, lovely to see you.”

“Master Laila.” Shiri smiled. “It’s lovely to see you too. I’ve come to collect Demetria.”

“Of course, her things are all packed up for you. I’ll fetch her bag.” Laila nodded before turning to the playing children. “Demetria, little one, your Master’s come.” The little girl’s head shot up, immediately dashing over towards them with a bright smile. Shiri knelt down, catching her in her arms with a smile.

“Master!” Demetria beamed, orange eyes bright with delight as she wrapped her little arms around Shiri’s neck, hugging her. 

“Hello, little one.” Shiri laughed, hugging the tiny girl back.

“She’s been waiting very patiently.” Laila chuckled as she walked back over, handing Shiri a bag. “Her three toys are packed in there, along with her blanket and clothes. She’s been starting to show hints of magical development, so keep an eye out for that.”

Shiri hummed, taking the bag as she stood up with the child in her arms. “Do you have any clue what it might be?”

“We suspect some sort of nature based magic. Her plots in the garden have been doing splendidly for this time of year.”

“Got it. We’ll watch out.” Shiri nodded.

Laila nodded back with a smile. “Let me know if you need any help. Is there anything more you need from me before you head off?”

“No, I don’t believe so.” Shiri shook her head. 

“Perfect.” Laila pressed a kiss to little Demetria’s head. “Be good for your Master, Demetria, and I’m sure we’ll see you again soon.”

“Bye bye!” Demetria babbled, clinging to Shiri happily. “Bye bye!” Shiri’s lips twitched, smiling fondly as she carried her new Padawan out, bouncing her gently. Demetria continued to wave over Shiri’s shoulder until they were out of view of the creche, looking up at her Master after. “Hi!”

“Hello.” Shiri chuckled, holding her close.

“I gonna be best Padawan.” Demetria declared determinedly. Shiri laughed again, kissing her head. 

“I know you are, sweetie.” Demetria snuggled into Shiri’s arms happily, head resting against her shoulder as she was carried out of the Temple, towards the warship. “You’ll have a friend your age. Her name is Irami Gasali.” Shiri told her, immediately causing the child to perk up more.

“Friend?”

“Friend.” Shiri confirmed.

“Wanna meet friend!”

“You will.” Shiri promised. “Patience, little one.”

“Ok.” Demetria nodded seriously after a moment. “I patient.” Shiri stroked the girl’s brown hair gently, carrying her onto the warship. 

“General.” A clone Captain nodded to her in greeting when she boarded, easily recognizable by the blue bird patterns covering his armor over top of the 327th yellow.

“Captain Bluejay.” Shiri nodded back, bouncing Demetria. “This is my new Padawan, Demetria Rose.”

“Hi!” Demetria waved. 

“Pleasure to meet you, Padawan.” Bluejay nodded, a smile in his voice even if not visible behind his helmet. Shiri continued to bounce the Padawan gently.

“This is Bluejay, Demetria. He’s one of the clones you can speak to whenever you want.”

“Friend?” Demetria wondered. 

“Friend.” Shiri confirmed with a nod. Demetria immediately beamed, reaching towards the clone.

“Hug for friend!” 

Shiri placed Demetria in Bluejay’s arms, letting him hold the tiny child. He chuckled slightly, patting Demetria’s back as she hugged his helmet after a second of trying to figure out where to put her arms. “We need to move on for now, Demetria.” Shiri took her back after a moment. “You’re going to meet Irami, remember?”

“Okay.” Demetria agreed, waving back at Bluejay as they left. “Bye bye!”

“Bye, Padawan.” Bluejay chuckled. 

Shiri knocked on the door of Irami’s nursery when they reached it, sensing her sister inside. “Come in!” Aayla called, smiling widely when the door opened, little Irami in her arms.

“This is Demetria Rose, Aayla.” Shiri told her, stepping inside. 

“Hello, Demetria.” Aayla smiled, standing up. “This is Irami, she’s going to be your friend.”

“Hi!” Irami giggled, looking excited. 

“Hi!” Demetria echoed with a grin, waving at the other toddler. “Play?”

“Play!” Irami cheered. Aayla set her Padawan down on the playmat, the two sisters sitting down to supervise the two tiny children as they immediately hugged before starting to play with their toys together. 

“Oh, I think they’ll get along fine.” Aayla chuckled, watching with a smile. Shiri nodded in agreement, the two sisters sitting there together while their little Padawans played, relishing the brief moment of peace. 

Chapter Text

“There’s an incoming transmission, General Koon.” One of the clones told the Kel’Dor Jedi. Plo nodded, crossing over to the holoprojector. 

“Put it through, Transmit.” He responded. Transmit did so, the holoprojections of the Council appearing in front of him. “Council.” Plo greeted his fellow Masters with a nod. “Something has come up?”

“Skywalker needs your help.” Zeafe answered, hands resting on her lap. “Him and his legion are boxed in by Separatists on Ciona.”

“We will head there at once, then.” Plo agreed. “The Separatists are truly foolish enough to launch such an attack on the Consortium so early into this conflict?”

“It is suspected they believe Ciona to be an easy target.” Windu nodded.

“They’re in for a surprise when they get there.” Obi-Wan added wryly. 

“Indeed.” Plo chuckled faintly at the younger Master’s statement. “Laiex intended to spend a few months there. I’m certain she’ll be able to assist us when we arrive.”

“Who is this ‘Laiex,’ sir?” Wolffe asked as the call ended, Plo turning to face him with a warm expression.

“My adoptive daughter.”

As the ramp lowered, a slim Garavian woman stood waiting for them, navy blue hair pulled up into a ponytail braid and her arms folded as she watched the warship, ears twitching slightly. “Laiex.” Plo greeted her warmly as he strode down the ramp. 

“Hey, Biur.” Laiex smiled slightly. 

“This is Yuna.” Plo gestured to the female trooper who had followed him down the ramp. “She is going to follow your lead through the forest to the Separatists, and we will follow her tracking signal.”

“She’ll have to ride on my back.” Laiex stated after a second, glancing at her. Yuna nodded.

“That’s fine.” She confirmed.

Laiex nodded before the young woman shifted, a navy blue wolf appearing where she had been standing and crouching down. “Keep your commlink on, Yuna.” Plo instructed as the trooper climbed onto the wolf’s back. 

“Aye, General.” Yuna nodded. Laiex howled loudly, stopping and tilting her head as though waiting for something before answering howls were heard in the distance. Immediately, Laiex took off, howling once more as the wolf and trooper disappeared into the trees, the warship rising into the air again and following their signal. 

Leaning against a tree, again counting the rocks she’d gathered in her boredom, Kicker straightened up when her comm buzzed, answering it. “This is Trooper Kicker.”

“This is Commander Wolffe of the one-hundred and fourth, trooper. We are enroute to the battle zone.”

“Understood, sir. I’ll signal the five hundred and first.”

“Copy that.”

Pulling out her second droid flare, Kicker climbed to her feet, firing it off before dashing away, back towards the battlefield. “Hey!” A sister’s voice called out to her after she’d gotten a short distance from her original spot, Yuna riding into view on the back of a wolf. Waiting until they were close enough, Kicker swung herself onto the wolf’s back behind Yuna, holding onto her as to not fall off. 

“You doing alright?” Yuna asked her.

“I’ll be glad to have this campaign over.” Kicker rested her head on Yuna’s shoulder. 

“You’ll be able to rest on the warship once it’s landed.” Yuna promised, holding onto Laiex’s fur with one hand as she reached up to squeeze Kicker’s hand. 

“They should know backup is here, I set off a droid flare.” Kicker sighed. “Damn Separatists.”

“General Koon seemed surprised they’re attempting this.” Yuna remarked.

“So was General Skywalker.” Kicker nodded.

“Maybe I oughta brush up on what information I have on this system.”

“Good idea.” Kicker agreed, arms still wound around her sister’s middle as the wolf abruptly skidded to a stop, hearing the sound of battle up ahead.

“Thank you, Laiex.” Yuna told her, climbing off. “We’ll wait here until the warship lands, Kicker.”

“Alright.”

Barely a few minutes later, the ground vibrated beneath their feet, the sound of the warship landing reaching them through the trees. “C’mon.” Yuna gestured for Kicker to follow her, pulling out her pistols in case they were spotted as they headed towards it, the wolf following after them. The two troopers went inside once they reached the warship, Laiex shifting back to her humanoid form and joining Plo as he oversaw the troops spreading out to assist 

“They’re scattering now, Biur.” She observed after a while. 

“We will pursue them, then.” Plo nodded. “They cannot be allowed to remain here.”

Laiex’s ears twitched, humming in acknowledgment as she watched the droids attempting to flee, still under fire from the combined 104th and 501st troopers. “Wolffe, you and the other Commanders form groups and stand by.” Plo instructed. “I must speak with General Skywalker.”

“Yes sir.” Wolffe nodded sharply as Plo walked past, heading towards where the 501st were firing after the scattering droids. 

“Master Koon.” Anakin acknowledged, the Garavian looking tired but still dismantling as many of the droids as he could reach.

“Knight Skywalker.” Plo returned with a nod, joining him. 

“Is Kicker alright?”

“She is, Yuna is getting her settled onboard our warship.”

Anakin nodded, turning his attention back to the droids. “We need to get the Separatists off Ciona.” 

“My Commanders are preparing to spread out and pursue them. You and your troops should take a moment to breathe.” Plo advised. “Tend your wounded and rest. We are prepared to continue the fight for the moment.”

“Right.” Anakin nodded again in acceptance after a second. 

“You can join us once you feel ready. My men are dismantling the communications blocker, so you should be able to get in contact with us.”

“Perfect. Thank you, Master Koon.”

“We’re ready to move out, General.” Wolffe told Plo, once the Kel’Dor had returned. 

“Good.” Plo nodded. “Your group will come with me, Commander. Commanders Cricket and Fang will take their groups and spread out to the north and south respectively, and Commander Moose will take the east.”

“Understood, sir.” Wolffe answered, pressing his comm to relay those orders. Yuna jogged down the ramp towards them just as he finished, holding her helmet under one arm and quickly saluting. 

“Kicker is settled in, Commander. I’m requesting permission to join you in pursuing the droids?”

“Permission granted.” Wolffe nodded sharply. Yuna smiled, placing her helmet back on. 

“Thank you, sir.” She answered as the triplets came over to join them. 

“All ready, General.” Wolffe stated. 

“Let’s move out, then.” Plo nodded. “The sooner we rid this planet of the droids the better.”

“Yes sir.”

Plo led the Wolfpack into the woods, starting off in search of the scattering droids. After a little while, they came across a large cluster of them, only noticing the small group when the clones opened fire. Things went smoothly at first, the clones and Jedi easily dispatching the group of startled battle droids, until the battle noise attracted even more of them, just as they were about to finish off the group.

“Dammit.” Boost muttered, pausing to reload his blaster. “Like a bloody hydra!”

“They’re separating us!” Aim called, the new wave of droids pushing them all further apart. 

“Regroup!” Wolffe barked, trying to force his way through the droids’ ranks towards them. Aim stumbled as a blaster bolt tore through his neck, crumpling to the ground and immediately being dragged away by the droids, spluttering as he spat out mouthfuls of blood. 

“AIM!” Sinker screamed, witnessing this and trying to push through the droids to his brother, only to be shot in the leg himself, disappearing behind the rows of droids. Wolffe snarled, redoubling his attacks, the Commander joined by Laiex, the two tearing through the droids together and managing to reach Sinker first. “I’m fine, I’m fine!” He growled, hauling himself up against a tree once the droids pinning him in were disposed of. “Get Aim!”

By this point, Aim had been dragged onto the droid ship that had arrived to collect the scattered troops, multiple layers of droids still blocking the way to rescuing him as Wolffe rushed forward, snarling in anger. 

“You lose, clones!” One B1 droid crowed, gripping Aim’s arm as the ship started to lift up.

“No!” Wolffe snarled again, continuing to try and fight his way through, stopping and raising his blaster when he realized it was pointless, firing a shot towards the rising ship and successfully shooting off the arm of the droid that had mocked him. “When I find you, clanker, you’re fucking scrap!”

“My arm!!” The droid’s wail was heard, just before the ship got too high to see the occupants inside. Wolffe snarled in frustration one more time before returning his attention to the droids on the ground, beginning to tear through them as if they were mere nuisances. 

Aim’s landing was shaky, his throat healed enough for the wound to be non-threatening now, the trooper looking around with a muttered curse at seeing he was in the middle of nowhere. Fortunately, there at least seemed to be no droids in this area, the only sound to be heard being the wind rustling the leaves. Even the small birds and animals had been frightened away by the racket of the droids. He sighed after a second, starting to walk, silently reasoning that he had to at least find other brothers that way. 

Finally, after a while of just walking in silence, another sound caught his attention- the bushes up ahead rustling, as if something large was moving through them. Aim stopped, looking in that direction as he removed his helmet, sniffing the air. The scent of several large animals reached him a moment afterwards, the rustling continuing. Assuming it must be either Garavians or natural wild wolves, he turned to look in that direction and waited. 

A large, black snout poked through the bushes after a moment, a pair of yellow eyes looking at him as the massive wolf stepped into view in front of him. Aim sat down slowly, so the wolf could sniff his face. It stepped towards him slowly, seeming to check him out, the creature’s cold nose bumping against Aim’s cheek as it sniffed. Apparently, the wolf seemed satisfied with whatever it smelled, stepping back and barking, other wolves filing into the clearing behind it. 

Aim relaxed slightly, reaching up to stroke the large wolf’s head. It nosed his hand in response, barking at the rest authoritatively, definitely seeming to be the Alpha of this pack. At his second bark, the other wolves trotted forward, starting to sniff and nudge Aim curiously as well. Getting eaten by wolves would be such a shitty way to go out. He thought. Thankfully, none of them seemed to have eating him on their minds though, chuffing and making other friendly noises as they checked him out before starting to meander towards the other side of the clearing. 

Picking up his helmet, Aim exhaled quietly, deciding to continue on and hope he found the rest before nightfall. A bark made him glance over his shoulder, the Alpha wolf staring at him, before he started to resume walking. Another sharp bark was heard behind him, which he ignored this time, before teeth closed carefully around his arm, dragging him backwards.

The Alpha grumbled at him, dragging Aim back towards where the pack was waiting, releasing his arm and headbutting him towards the middle of the group. 

“Look, I’m not a member of your pack.” Aim protested, holding up his hands. The wolf barked in response, tail flicking as it headbutted him again. Aim sighed, rolling his eyes. “Boost and Sinker are gonna find this hilarious.”

The other wolves joined their Alpha in nudging Aim into the middle of the group, boxing him in like a runaway pup. He sighed again quietly, accepting it as the Alpha chuffed smugly and trotted back to the front of the group, starting to grudgingly walk along with the pack as he tried to think of a way out of this situation. 

The pack kept a steady pace, continuing to move through the woods the whole day until the light started to dim. The Alpha tilted his head towards the sky, sniffing the air a couple times before leading the pack into the clearing and giving a dismissive bark, going to lay down. Thank Kanerth… my legs are killing me… Aim thought silently, slightly relieved they were finally stopping. The wolves started to spread out over the clearing, finding comfortable nooks among the tree roots to settle into. One of the male wolves trotted forward, shifting into a tall Garavian man and starting to gather branches from around the clearing, glancing at Aim as he did. After a second, Aim nodded to him slightly.

“Hello.” He said, as a Garavian woman shifted as well. 

“Hello.” The man nodded, speaking with a thick accent as he gestured to himself. “Dasha.”

“I’m Aim.” He answered. Dasha gestured to the woman.

“Alaska.” He introduced, gaze softening fondly as he looked at her before returning his gaze to Aim. The woman grunted slightly, eyeing Aim as she continued picking up sticks. 

“It’s good to meet you both.” Aim nodded.

“You are not from here.” Dasha said, stating the obvious. “Alone?”

“No.” Aim shook his head. “I got separated from my pack.”

Dasha hummed slightly, nodding in acknowledgement of that, starting to pile the sticks in the middle of the clearing. Alaska walked over, dumping her sticks into the pile as well and nuzzling her mate briefly. Dasha nuzzled her affectionately in response, taking a flint and steel from his pocket and kneeling down, starting to work at lighting a fire. Aim sat down against the trunk of a tree, leaning back against it and watching. Dasha walked over once the fire was lit, sitting down beside him and pointing towards where the Alpha was laying. 

“Ezra.” He stated, then pointing towards an obviously pregnant wolf laying beside him. “Agata. She is his mate- our Beta.”

Aim nodded, studying the two wolves as Dasha’s attention switched to the pups playing in the clearing. “Are you and Alaska the only Garavians?”

Dasha shook his head, getting up and going over to the pups, plucking up two of them before settling by Aim again. “Our pups.” He told Aim, holding the slightly larger one up first. “Alek, and Tara.” He held up the smaller one as well, the pups wriggling and yipping at having been picked up in the middle of playing. 

“They’re adorable.” Aim smiled slightly, reaching out to stroke them. The pups sniffed at his hands curiously, their little tails wagging, and immediately scrambled onto his lap when Dasha set them down again. Aim started stroking their backs gently as they curled up together, Alaska walking over and planting herself beside Dasha, watching Aim closely. 

“Have they shifted yet?” Aim wondered. Dasha shook his head, squeezing Alaska’s hand gently.

“No, not yet. Soon.” He answered before tilting his head slightly. “You separated from your pack? Why?”

“An enemy pack was responsible.” Aim answered him. “I was separated from them during a fight.” 

Dasha frowned. “Enemy pack?”

“Called the Separatists.” Aim nodded. Dasha looked puzzled by that. 

“Don’t know.” He explained. “I only speak little Basic.”

“..Enemy pack that have droids to do bad stuff.”

“Droids.” Dasha repeated, understanding appearing in his eyes. “Saw them.”

“You did?”

Dasha nodded. “Little past sunrise. Saw big group, went around to avoid.”

“My pack is trying to get them off Ciona.” Aim explained.

“Help you find your pack.” Dasha declared after a second of consideration. “Tomorrow.”

“Thank you.” Aim smiled slightly, still stroking the pups gently. Dasha nodded.

“For now, sleep. Long way to walk.” 

The next morning, Aim yawned as he woke up, feeling his face being prodded by a cold nose. Ezra chuffed at him impatiently when he opened his eyes, prodding him one more time to ensure he was awake before lowering his head, picking up something and dropping it on Aim’s chest with another chuff. Rubbing his eyes, Aim looked down to see a dead rabbit. “Thank you.” He told the wolf, pushing himself up to sit and starting to pull the fur of the small rabbit apart with his claws, starting to eat the meat. Ezra sat beside him and watched, a look almost like concern in the Alpha’s eyes. Once Aim had finished, the wolf stood up and padded forward again, nudging his chin upwards and yipping in concern as he sniffed the still healing wound on Aim’s throat. 

“It’ll heal soon enough.” Aim told the wolf, realizing what he was inspecting. “It’s no big deal.”

Ezra yipped in concern again, nosing the injury carefully as Agata lumbered over to them, a bundle of herbs held in the pregnant wolf’s jaws. Aim leaned back more, taking the bundle from her and opening it, studying the herbs inside. Ezra lowered his head, delicately plucking one of the herbs in his teeth, trying to press it against the wound. 

“Alright, okay.” Aim nodded after a second, half certain he got the wolf’s meaning. “Thank you.” He tugged off one of his shoulder pads, bending it enough it was roughly bowl-like before emptying the herbs into there, pouring in a small amount of water from his flask before pulling out his knife, using the safe side of it to start working on crushing the herbs. Ezra rumbled approvingly, watching him do this. Aim put the knife down after a minute of this, scooping up some of the now paste with his fingers, carefully rubbing it against the wound. 

Ezra gave an approving bark, walking away to check on the rest of the pack now that Aim’s wound had been taken care of. Agata laid down beside Aim, continuing to rest until it was time to move on again. Plucking up a leaf, Aim used that to wipe his shoulder pad clean, bending it back into shape and securing it again before stroking Agata’s head gently. The female wolf seemed to smile, closing her eyes as she leaned her head into his hand, tail thumping gently against the ground. 

A while later, hearing a few short barks, Aim stood up, hauling up his small bag as he did so, seeing the other wolves getting ready to leave again. Agata hauled herself to her paws with a huff, pausing to nose her swollen side slightly before lumbering slowly over to her mate, joining Ezra at the head of the pack. The pack moved on, the journey continuing for a few hours before Aim’s wrist was grabbed in Ezra’s teeth, the Alpha having fallen back to tug the trooper in another direction while the pack briefly stopped. Ezra let go of his sleeve once sure Aim was paying attention, leading him towards the sound of running water and pushing through the bushes to stop on the bank of a small, clear stream. 

“Oh!” Aim sounded slightly surprised, looking between the wolf and stream before he smiled, nodding, pulling out his flask and moving towards the water. Kneeling on the bank, he scooped up a handful of the water, testing it before determining it tasted fresh and clean enough, starting to refill his flask. Ezra rumbled approvingly, waiting for him to finish before heading back towards where they’d left the pack. 

A few hours later, Aim frowned slightly under his helmet as the familiar sounds of metal clanking and creaking were heard up ahead. Ezra growled lowly, the Alpha’s ears flattening in dislike, starting to redirect the pack as the unfortunately familiar sounds got closer. Realizing something, Aim’s wings bristled slightly, reaching behind himself and tugging his rifle off his back, squinting as he looked through the scope and his wings stiffening further as he saw droids coming from everywhere but the way they’d come. 

Ezra’s ears flattened further, continuing to growl quietly, starting to herd the pack back the way they came and nudging Agata into the middle of the group where she was more shielded. We’re not going to get far enough in time. Aim realized grimly, raising his rifle again and aiming it in preparation to fire, falling to the back of the pack as they tried to retreat. 

“It’s a clone!” The shrill voice of a B1 battle droid exclaimed, spotting them through the trees. Ezra whipped his head back, a long, sharp howl of warning leaving the Alpha’s throat and echoing over the forest as Aim opened fire on the droids. Several of the wolves snatched up the pups as Ezra barked sharply, fleeing back the way they came as the Alpha lunged forward, attacking the droids alongside him. Aim continued to fire rapidly, downing several of the droids as they shot back, seeing Ezra attack one out of the corner of his eye and tear off its head, sparks flying as it collapsed under the wolf’s weight. 

For a moment, it seemed like the two of them could take them. Half of the droids were gone now… 

Until a high pitched yip caused Aim’s head to snap around, seeing a blaster bolt collide straight with the wolf’s chest, hitting the ground and going utterly still. 

Aim’s wings arched, hissing quietly even as his heart sank, resuming firing even quicker this time, focusing on taking down the remaining droids and trying to ignore the cold, gripping feeling that had all but filled his chest, inwardly not sure what to make of it. 

The forest was quiet when all the droids had finally fallen, the commotion having once again scared away all the little birds and creatures, leaving Aim alone with the fallen wolf. 

“Fuck. Fuck…” Aim breathed, before suddenly hearing a loud squeal. Tara stumbled out of the bushes behind him as he turned to look, having been accidentally dropped in the rush to escape. She scampered up to him, pressing against his foot with a whine. He knelt down, scooping the pup up and cradling her carefully as he looked back at Ezra’s still body, taking off his helmet after a moment and placing Tara inside it, setting it down by the bush she’d stumbled out of. Turning around, he broke off the arm of one of the fallen droids, using that to start digging a hole and avoiding looking at Ezra’s body, lest he feel tempted to give in to the hunters’ instinct that urged him to eat the wolf.  

After an undetermined amount of time, having focused all his attention on digging and ignoring Ezra’s body, Aim looked up slightly upon hearing the sound of a ship and seeing a Republic shuttle overhead. It settled in a nearby clearing, the ramp lowering and 501st troopers coming down it, followed closely by their Jedi. 

Pausing in digging, Aim pushed himself to stand, eyes landing on Ezra before he smacked his own arm sharply, shoving the unwelcome thoughts back down. “You alright, trooper?” Captain Rex called as he approached, Anakin close behind. 

“Yes sir.” Aim nodded, once more glancing at the dead wolf and smacking his own arm again. Anakin frowned, quickly taking stock of the situation. 

“Why don’t you go back to the shuttle?” He told Aim. “I can take care of this. And you can report to Rex while I’m out here.”

“Understood, General.” Aim answered, dropping the dirty droid part that he held, bending down to pick up his helmet, a little wolf’s head poking out of it. The pup yawned squeakily, having just woken up, sniffing as the scents of the newcomers reached her. Aim kept his eyes on her, trudging towards the shuttle with Rex close behind. 

“Are you hurt? We’ve got a medkit onboard.”

“Only my neck, but it’s not a health risk anymore.” Aim answered. Rex nodded. 

“We can have Kix take a look when we get back.”

Aim sat down on a crate, scratching Tara’s chin gently, the tiny Garavian pup still sitting in his helmet. She yipped happily, little tail wagging, before snapping at his hand playfully, tiny sharp teeth causing him to yelp. 

“F-fu-” He started, managing to curb the instinct to swear as he looked at his thumb, a tiny little tooth sticking out of it and the pup now missing a fang. Holding the helmet in one arm, Aim lifted his thumb to his mouth, carefully biting down on the bit of tooth that was sticking out of his thumb, yanking the rest of it out. 

“What are- oh.” Rex spotted the tooth halfway through his question, Aim grimacing slightly as he dropped it into his palm, blood welling up on his thumb. “I’ll get you a bandage to cover that.”

Anakin boarded the shuttle again just as Rex finished bandaging up Aim’s thumb. “The wolf is buried.” The Garavian Jedi told him. “I left a marker so we can come back and make a proper grave header once all is over with.”

“Thank you, General.” Aim nodded. 

“Are you ready to report?”

Aim nodded again, starting to fill Anakin in on what had happened since he was separated from the others, still stroking Tara’s head as he did. Anakin listened attentively, ears flicking slightly in anger at hearing about the droids and Ezra’s death, nodding once Aim was finished. “We’ll find the rest of that pack.” He promised. “Make sure they’re alright. But for now, I’d better call Master Koon and let him know we found you.”

Anakin sat in the co-pilot's seat, pulling out his comm to contact Plo as the shuttle lifted off again. “Knight Skywalker?” Plo’s hologram appeared a moment later. 

“We’ve found your missing trooper, Master Koon.”

“Oh, thank goodness! Is he alright?” 

“He is, but there’s a bigger problem. The Separatists have most likely captured a pack.”

Plo frowned. “I would say more than one. Laiex has heard distress calls from all over the forest.” Anakin’s ears flattened, lips pressing together as the Kel’Dor stated that. “We are going to investigate the most recent one she’s heard. Perhaps we should regroup there.” 

“Agreed.” Anakin nodded. “We’ll see you there.” 

The shuttle landed in another clearing, Anakin stepping out and looking around, quickly spotting Plo and his troopers. 

“Where’s Aim?” One of the troopers immediately demanded, barging in between Plo and Wolffe. 

“Boost!” Wolffe snapped, smacking the trooper’s helmet with a glare. Boost appeared undeterred, staring at the entrance to the shuttle until Wolffe yanked him back. “I’m sorry, General Skywalker.”

“Don’t worry about it, Commander.” Anakin shook his head understandingly. “Your brother’s still onboard, Boost. He’s alright.” 

Wolffe smacked Boost’s helmet one more time for good measure before letting him go, the trooper immediately dashing up the ramp past Anakin. “Have you had any luck figuring out where the Separatists are taking the packs?” Anakin asked Plo. 

“We haven’t.” Plo shook his head. “However, Laiex has offered to be bait.”

“Has she?” Anakin looked at the Garavian woman. She nodded, ears twitching slightly. 

“If they want Garavians, they can get another one. Them taking me to wherever they’re hiding will lead you there.”

“We can put a tracker on you as well.” Rex suggested. “Just in case they manage to lose us in the trees, that way we don’t lose track of you entirely.” Laiex nodded in agreement, ears twitching again, shifting into her wolf form and rumbling, pawing at the ground. 

“I’ll follow right behind her, just in case something happens.” Yuna offered. “I can avoid detection pretty easily. The rest of you can follow at a distance.”

“Then I think all’s ready to be launched into action, Generals.” Wolffe stated, looking at the Jedi. 

“You’re certain, Laiex?” Plo double checked with slight concern. The wolf nosed his hand, rumbling as she nodded in response. “Alright. Be careful.” Plo cautioned as Rex brought over the small tracking device, hiding it beneath Laiex’s fur. Nosing Plo’s hand one more time, Laiex barked before dashing off and howling loudly, the sound echoing over the trees as Yuna hurried after her, wolf and trooper disappearing into the undergrowth. 

After a while of running, the wolf yelped as a dart hit her, immediately slowing and stumbling before crashing down as the sedative kicked in, surrounded by droids as her vision faded to black. 

Laiex’s ears flicked, rumbling as she started to come to, feeling a nose nudging her shoulder and opening her eyes to see a heavily pregnant wolf standing beside her, nosing her worriedly and panting. Laiex lumbered to her feet, rumbling again as she nosed the pregnant wolf back gently before shifting to her humanoid form. “You need to lay down.” She murmured softly, patting the ground in front of the wolf. 

The wolf slowly lowered herself to the floor of the cage they were in, continuing to pant, ears pinned back in stress. Laiex stroked her head gently, rumbling soothingly until the wolf yelped sharply, ears pinning back even further as her sides heaved. “Shhh, shhh.” Laiex murmured, looking to the side and hurriedly catching a tiny pup as it was pushed out, carefully placing it by the wolf’s side. “There you are, good girl.” She comforted, vaguely registering the sound of blasterfire starting up behind them as the clones and Jedi arrived on the scene. “Almost there, now.”

The droids were taken completely by surprise, boxed in on all sides to prevent them from scattering again this time, a massive number of them falling before they regained their senses and started to fight back. Through the chaos of the ongoing fight, one droid in particular caught Plo’s eye. 

“Wolffe!” He called, getting the Commander’s attention. “I believe that’s the one you claimed?”

Wolffe’s gaze snapped to the droid Plo was pointing at, which was stupidly trying to join the fight with only its one arm. “Yeah, it is. Thanks, General.” He growled, stalking across the field towards it. The droid screamed in panic when Wolffe reached it before the sound was abruptly cut off by Wolffe punching it’s head clean off, before resuming firing normally as if nothing happened. 

When the battle was finally over, every last droid shot down and destroyed, the clones set about freeing the trapped Garavians and wolves. Yuna hurried over to the cage Laiex was in, smashing the lock with the handle of her blaster and hauling the door open. “You alright, Laiex?”

“I’m fine.” Laiex nodded. “But this wolf is injured somehow.” She gestured to the female wolf, who was still panting heavily and seemed to be weakening. Three pups now laid by her stomach. Yuna frowned and looked over her shoulder. 

“Squirrel!”

The medic hurried over, looking over the wolf thoroughly before shaking his head solemnly. “She’s not physically hurt.” He murmured. “There’s nothing I can do. It’s something else that’s killing her.” As he said that, the wolf spotted Aim, who was leaning against Boost, immediately yipping loudly in an attempt to get his attention. 

Aim glanced over at hearing the yip, immediately stiffening slightly upon recognizing the wolf and dashing over, pushing his siblings out of the way to kneel in front of her. The female wolf nosed his hand slightly before raising her head, sniffing at the wound on his throat again. 

“I’ll get it properly seen to now.” Aim promised quietly, stroking her head. Agata gave a weak, approving chuff at that statement before lowering her head, nudging the three pups towards him gently. After a second, Aim scooped them up gently, swallowing a bit. Agata chuffed approvingly again, looking over as another wolf approached them, Aim recognizing her as Alaska. 

Alaska squeezed past them, whining a bit as she nosed Agata, ears drooping. Agata nuzzled her gently, lowering her head again after a moment as her breathing grew shallower. Alaska whined more, squeezing further in and shoving her head under Agata’s, tail pinned between her legs as Agata nuzzled her again gently, resting her head on Alaska’s scruff before closing her eyes, drawing one more breath before going still. 

She looked almost peaceful.  

The female wolf’s body was carefully lowered into the ground beside her mate’s, Anakin using the Force to lower dirt over them both afterwards. Boost drove a stake into the ground behind the grave, removing the temporary marker. 

“Here, Aim, you can put their memorial plate here.” He told his brother quietly. Aim hesitated for a moment before placing the engraved metal onto the stake, stepping back afterwards. 

For a few minutes, there was nothing, the group starting to turn away to return to the shuttle before a faint glow caught their eyes. A small, glowing Garavian looking girl appeared beside the grave, bending down to touch the dirt. When she touched it, two more forms appeared, of the wolves they had just buried. The two yipped in excitement upon seeing each other, nuzzling each other with wagging tails. 

Leaning against Boost, holding his helmet with the three sleeping pups in it, Tara long since returned to her parents, Aim watched, unable to find words. After a moment of chasing each other around in joy, the figures of the two wolves trotted up to him. Ezra peered into the helmet, a soft chuff leaving the glowing wolf upon seeing the three pups, lowering his snout into it to nuzzle them gently before backing up a couple steps, intelligent eyes resting on Aim. Shifting the helmet carefully to one arm, he raised his hand, resting it briefly on the translucent wolf as Ezra’s tail wagged, the wolf raising his head to nose Aim’s face, the sensation of warm air pressing against his cheek following the spirit’s movement. 

Agata trotted up alongside her mate, wagging her tail as Aim stroked her as well and lowered the helmet for her to look inside, the female wolf nuzzling the pups with an affectionate rumble before turning her attention towards Alaska, padding over to her. Alaska rumbled quietly, holding her two pups and pulled into her mate’s side, leaning forward to rest her head against Agata’s. The spirit wolf nosed Alaska’s face gently, tail wagging again, Ezra padding forward to do the same before they both trotted back towards the glowing young girl. 

The girl patted both their heads with a smile, lifting her hand to wave to the watching group, before turning and trotting away with the two wolves on either side of her, all three fading after a few steps. Silence hung after the clearing after they’d disappeared, everyone still grasping to find words to react to what they’d just seen. 

It wasn’t every day one saw a spirit, let alone a Celestial. 

Chapter Text

“Good luck.” Aim told the Garavian couple, the three standing at the top of the ramp, offering a small smile to them. The couple had requested transportation to Neveah, with their pack having scattered after Ezra and Agata’s deaths. After everything, the Wolfpack was happy to comply with that. 

“Oh, before I forget-” He reached into his pocket, pulling out a small fang. “This is Tara’s.” He explained, holding it out to them. Dasha closed his fingers around it after a second. 

“Keep it.” He stated. “To remember us.”

After a second, Aim nodded, smiling faintly as he put it back in his pocket. “Pretty sure I can’t forget.” He murmured.

Dasha smiled back slightly. “Thank you. You were good packmate.”

Aim bent down slightly, scratching the ears of the two pups. “You two behave.” He told them, the pups yipping in response, tails wagging as they licked his fingers. Aim stepped back, watching the Garavians go down the ramp, touching the tooth in his pocket. Dasha scooped up his pups as they left, wrapping his other arm around Alaska. Aim pressed the button to lift the ramp once they were down, eyes staying on the Garavian family until the ramp had fully closed, turning away afterwards. 

“You alright?” Boost asked him. Aim hummed in response, leaning against him slightly. 

“Let’s go kidnap Sinker for cuddles.”

“Sounds like a plan to me.” Boost agreed. “General Koon’s gonna announce where we’re spending the rest of our leave in an hour, once everyone’s had a chance to vote on the location.”

Sinker was easily tracked down, the two immediately lifting him up and quickly dashing off down the hallway. “Boost! Aim!” He screeched in protest. “I was busy!”

“Even better!” Boost declared as Aim snickered, the two carrying their protesting brother back towards the barracks. They put Sinker down when they reached their nest, hugging him tightly to make sure he didn’t just run off. Sinker gave a final grumble of protest before nuzzling his siblings begrudgingly, giving in. Aim rumbled smugly, nuzzling Sinker back with a grin as Boost started combing his claws through their brother’s wings, purring smugly as well as he groomed out any loose or broken feathers. 

The trio snuggled together for a while, grooming each other and enjoying the peace, before Plo’s voice coming over the intercom caused them to look up. 

“After counting all of your votes, it has been decided that the rest of our leave will be spent on Elikala.” Plo informed them. “We will leave in just under four hours, but I would suggest taking the time to acquire suitable winter clothes before we do.” 

“We should go get some.” Aim noted, pushing himself up. 

“Oh, does that mean you’re releasing me?” Sinker laughed, rolling out of the nest. 

“To go get appropriate clothes, yes.”

“Works for me, let’s go.”

The three Kashgar made their way down the hallway, intending to go trade for the necessary snow clothes, when they were stopped partway by their General. “Before you go to trade, you three, I have something for you.”

“What is it, General?” Aim wondered. 

“I made these for you three.” Plo held out three neatly folded knitted scarves to them. They were very soft, all similar looking in big stripes of dark and light gray and a soft, rusty red color. “They should help keep you warm during our visit.”

Aim’s wings perked up slightly, taking one from Plo. “Thank you, General Koon.”

“You’re welcome.” Plo answered warmly as Boost and Sinker took the other two scarves. Aim unfolded the scarf, studying it for a moment before wrapping it around his neck. “I’ll let you three go now, I just wanted to give you those.” Plo stepped aside to let them continue. “Have a good time.”

Aim knocked on Plo’s door and waited outside for the Jedi to answer, the trooper now having the small wolf tooth dangling from his ear. Plo opened the door after a moment, the Kel’Dor currently without his mask and goggles, a force field fizzling into place to prevent the oxygen from the rest of the ship from seeping in. “Aim.” He greeted warmly. “What can I do for you?”

Aim shifted slightly on his feet, feathers ruffling. “I’m not too sure about something.” He admitted. 

Plo hummed. “If you want to shift forms to something that can tolerate the air in here, you can join me for tea, and we can talk.” He offered kindly. After a moment of consideration, Aim’s appearance shifted, taking on the form of a Fae with canine features, appearing almost wolf-like. Plo nodded slightly in approval, stepping back to admit him and gesturing to the low table in the middle of the room. “Take a seat.”

Aim sat down on one of the pillows, adjusting it slightly to make himself comfortable as Plo closed the door again, crossing the room to him. 

“What’s troubling you?” Plo asked, setting a cup in front of him. 

“I don’t know how to describe it very well.” Aim admitted. 

“There is no rush.” Plo reassured him, starting to pour the freshly brewed tea into Aim’s cup, an aromatic, slightly spicy smell rising up on the steam. Aim nodded after a second, lifting the cup to take a careful sip. “Are you hungry?” Plo asked after filling his own cup, setting the teapot down in the middle of the table. 

“A bit, General.” Aim answered. Plo held out a plate containing slices of a colorful fruit. 

“It’s kand fruit, from my homeworld. Help yourself.”

Aim picked up two slices, taking a bite of one to get a feel for the taste. Plo set down the plate, taking a couple slices for himself. “How is your wound healing?”

“It’s almost completely healed, General.” Aim answered, eating the other slice once he decided he liked it. 

“Good.” Plo nodded. “I’m glad to hear it.”

After a few more slices, Aim finally spoke. “Why did it feel worse to have two wolves I only knew less than two days die, than it does for my actual siblings?”

Plo hummed thoughtfully, leaning back slightly as he considered how to answer that. “..As unfortunate and tragic as it is, death is a part of war.” He said slowly. “Especially for those who fight it. You and your brothers are soldiers. It is what you have been brought up to do your whole lives. Death is expected, as much as it may hurt when it does occur. With the wolves… Ezra and Agata, you said their names were?” Plo continued after Aim nodded in confirmation. “There was no such expectation. They were innocent creatures simply trying to live their lives, and the fact that they met such a cruel end hurts deeply.”

Aim’s wings ruffled as he considered that silently. “You are not wrong to feel this way.” Plo reassured him gently. 

“It’s a really strange feeling.” Aim said quietly. “It was what let me fight the instinct to eat Ezra, because it felt wrong.”

Plo nodded. “You did right, and I know it wasn’t easy.” Aim considered that silently for a moment before Plo pulled him gently into a hug. “You did well, son.” He repeated quietly. Aim rested his head on the Kel’Dor’s shoulder after a split second of hesitation, hugging him back. 

“How are the pups settling?” Plo asked, letting go. 

“They’re doing well.” Aim answered. “They’re getting a lot of attention from everyone, and Laiex is keeping them fed.” 

“Good.” Plo nodded. “Have you decided on names for them yet?”

“Boost is calling one Biter, as it’s constantly trying to eat him.”

Plo chuckled. “And the other two?”

“The little female one is called Princess, as she’s the apparent leader.” 

“Fitting.” Plo agreed. 

“And Sinker called the third one Chip at least once, and now it won’t respond to any other name.” 

Plo chuckled again. “Chip is a cute name.” He acknowledged. Aim looked slightly indignant at hearing that, huffing a bit. “What’s the matter?” Plo’s eyes sparkled with amusement at his reaction. 

“Chip doesn’t match the other names at all.” Aim complained. Plo laughed, shaking his head. 

“Perhaps not, but it is still cute.”

“Sinker?” A voice was heard behind the trooper, Rela standing there when he turned around, the teenager bundled up in warm clothing and with her hair tucked away under her hat. 

“Yeah, what’s up?” Sinker asked her with a smile, wings twitching. 

“I thought your wings were black.” Rela studied them curiously. 

“What?” Sinker looked over his shoulder. “Oh. No. I just forgot to change it.” His wings twitched again, black spreading across the fluffy white feathers as if someone had spilled a pot of ink on them. 

“Why do you keep them black?” Rela asked after a second. 

“White feathers or fur on a Kashgar are one in a million.” Boost answered for him. “Got him a lot of unwanted attention back on Kamino, can only imagine what it’d be like on Coruscant.”

“It’s easier to just blend in with the rest.” Sinker agreed. 

Rela nodded, humming slightly. “It’s a pretty color.”

“Thank you.” Sinker smiled slightly. 

“Are you sure that’s all you’re wearing, though?” Rela sounded slightly doubtful, surveying the civilian winter outfits they’d managed to put together. “You’ll catch a cold.”

“Our fur will keep us warm.” Boost shrugged. “We’ll be fine.”

Rela still looked doubtful, but nodded. “Well, if you insist.”

“Let’s go.” Sinker insisted. “I want to see snow.”

Rela’s lips twitched as she followed them out, immediately laughing at seeing some of the clones who had left earlier up to their necks in the snow. Which, considering their height, was an impressive amount of snow. “No, Boost, don’t step there-” Wolffe started to warn him, only for the trooper to curse wildly as his leg instantly sank into the snowdrift. Rela laughed harder, doubling over as Aim glanced at Sinker, arching an eyebrow. 

“You’re all idiots.” Sinker scoffed, beating his wings to launch himself into the air, skimming just above the snow. 

“Complete idiots.” Aim agreed, following Sinker’s lead. Wolffe glowered at them, two tendrils shooting out of the snow and grasping their ankles, yanking them both down into the snowdrift. Aim yelped, flailing with a choked gasp as he resurfaced. “Wolffe!”

“Fucking deserved it.” Wolffe grumbled in response, hauling himself up out of the snowbank. Aim spat out more snow, grimacing a bit, grasping Wolffe’s ankle suddenly and tossing the Commander back into the snowdrift, hastily clambering out. Wolffe burst back out a second later, yanking Aim back into the snow before shooting up into the air, snow shedding off of his wings and back onto Aim’s head. 

“Gah- yack-” Aim spluttered, flailing as his eyes widened suddenly. 

“You’re not gonna win against the Commander, Aim.” Sinker told him with a laugh. Aim was still spluttering, trying to claw his way out and jabbing a finger desperately at something behind them. 

“I’m not a cadet, Aim, I’m not falling for that trick.” Wolffe snorted. 

“Wolffe, he’s not joking! Look behind you!” Rela yelled. Wolffe looked over his shoulder, cursing sharply at seeing a massive white bear standing behind him, the creature snarling loudly when he looked at it. “Kill it! You can kill this kind of bear!” Rela called quickly, retreating back into the ship so she wouldn’t be an easy target. 

Wolffe didn’t wait to be told twice, lunged towards the bear as it swiped at him. Fang, Cricket, and Moose quickly followed his lead, the four of them managing to bring it down after a couple minutes of fighting with it, Moose managing to cut its throat. 

“So much for a week without anything trying to kill us.” Cricket joked. 

“White bears are the only bears you can kill on this planet.” Rela explained to them, coming back down the ramp. “They’re completely aggressive. Usually, there’s a wolf pack following one, but this one must’ve not attracted one yet.”

“Why do the wolves follow them if they’re so aggressive?” Sinker asked. 

“The bears mostly attack Elikalans.” Rela answered. “Small children, most times. The wolves kill the bear, save the Elikalans, and they get a large chunk of the meat for their pack to share.”

“Why don’t they just kill the bear before that?” Boost asked. 

“There’s no actual answer to that.” Rela admitted. “One common theory is that a whole white bear is simply too large for an entire pack to eat all at one time.” 

“It is a pretty big creature.” Yuna agreed, looking up and waving when Plo appeared at the top of the ship’s ramp, the Jedi having fashioned a few blankets into a makeshift carrier for the three wolf pups, partially hidden under his cloak to keep them warm. 

“I seem to have missed something.” Plo remarked after a second, upon spotting the dead bear. Rela giggled, starting to laugh at her Master’s calm comment. 

“You could put it that way, General.” Wolffe agreed. 

“So, we can eat the meat, but what about the fur?” Moose wondered, looking down at it. 

“You can sell it at one of the shops in the village.” Plo answered. Moose perked up slightly, looking at the other Commanders. 

“We could probably get quite a lot for this.”

Fang nodded in agreement. “Let’s take care of that now. Get the meat into storage then head into the village.”

Moose tried lifting it up, grunting. “Damn- I think all five of us are gonna have to carry this.”

“You lot run off.” Wolffe told the troopers as Squirrel came over to help them. “We’ll take care of this and meet back with you later.”

“Copy that, Commander.” Yuna nodded, following the others off to explore. 

Squirrel took hold of the bear’s head, grunting as the five of them lifted it up. “How is it this heavy?” The CMO questioned as they carried it onto the ship. 

“Kanerth knows, but this’ll keep the troopers fed for a minute.” Cricket said. When they reached one of the empty chilled storage rooms, Moose went and got them the needed supplies, the five getting to work. 

“What should we get when we go to the village?” Cricket asked. “I don’t think there’s anything we’re in dire need of currently, unless Squirrel needs medical supplies.”

“No, I’m all good.” Squirrel shook his head. 

“We could get fluffy blankets, and maybe hot cocoa for the troopers and our Jedi.” Moose suggested. “Rela seems to have a particular liking for it, so it must be good.”

“That sounds good.” Fang agreed.

“We can use whatever’s left after that to get some additional food supplies.” Wolffe added. “Can’t hurt.” 

Holding the rolled up fur, Moose ducked into a shop, looking around and seeing an employee at the counter. “Excuse me?” He called. 

“Yes?” The Ilfirin woman looked up. “Can I help you?”

“We would like to sell this white bear fur to you.” Moose told her. 

“Bring it over, I’ll have a look.” 

Moose carried it over, placing it on the counter. The woman put on a pair of spectacles, starting to examine the fur. After a minute of this she hummed, glancing up at the group. “I’ll give you five hundred for it.”

Just as Moose was about to accept it, a young voice piped up. “You can’t give them that amount!” A twelve year old Elikalan girl said indignantly, glaring at the woman. 

“It’s none of your business, child.” The woman scoffed, taking off her glasses as the Commanders glanced down at the girl. 

“You can’t give them that amount!” The girl insisted. “That’s worth more than five hundred credits!”

“And what could you possibly know? Run along, girl.” The woman scoffed, turning back to the Commanders. “Five hundred, take it or leave it.”

The little girl tugged on Wolffe’s arm to get his attention, looking up at him. “I can take you to my Naneth’s fabric shop!” She offered. “ She won’t try to underprice this!” 

Wolffe tilted his head, considering that for a moment before looking at the shopkeeper. “I think we’ll leave it, then.” 

The little girl looked smug, sticking her tongue out at the woman. “Little brat.” The shopkeeper scowled at her. “You can’t just come in here and steal my customers!” 

“Not your customers anymore.” The girl still sounded smug, as Moose picked the fur back up. 

“You little-”

“Whatever you’re about to say, don’t.” Fang interrupted warningly. Sticking her tongue out at the woman one more time, the girl tugged Wolffe out of the shop, the others following. 

“I’m Fekla Maximovna!” She declared, leading them towards another shop down the street.

“Wolffe.” He answered. “And that’s Moose, Fang, Cricket, and Squirrel.”

Fekla tugged Wolffe into the other shop. “Naneth?” She called, getting the attention of the woman behind the counter. 

“Yes, Fekla?”

“These men want to sell this bear fur!”

“Oh, let’s see it then.” The woman stood up, putting aside the piece of embroidery she’d been working on. Moose unrolled the fur on the counter, the girl’s mother starting to examine it. “Goodness, this is a lovely one.” She murmured as her daughter ran up beside her. 

“The lady at the other shop tried giving them five hundred, Naneth.”

“Five hundred, for this?” The woman looked downright scandalized. “No, no, that’s downright robbery! A full fur like this is worth at least a thousand, and that’s with only a preliminary inspection!”

“Ma’am, a thousand credits is fine, really.” Moose interrupted quickly. “We really don’t need more than that.”

“Are you absolutely certain?”

“Really, we’re happy with that amount, ma’am.” Moose confirmed. “A thousand would be enough for us.”

“Alright, then, I’ll go get the credits.”

Squirrel took the credits when the woman returned, Moose carefully handing over the fur pelt to her. “Thank you very much.” The woman smiled. “You’re welcome back any time.”

When they were halfway down the street, after leaving the fabric shop, a voice called out. “Misters? Misters!” Fekla called, dashing up to them. Wolffe looked back, smiling slightly. 

“Yes?”

“I’m gonna show you the best shops to go to!” Fekla declared. 

“Lead the way, then.” Cricket agreed with a chuckle after a second. 

In the middle of trotting back towards her mother’s shop, Fekla looked over her shoulder when she heard Cricket call out. “Just a moment, Fekla, we’ve got something for you.” 

“What is it?” Fekla wondered curiously. 

Cricket pulled a fluff teddy bear out of the bundle of things they’d gathered, holding it out to her. “Thanks for all your help.”

Fekla blinked at it for a second, before her expression brightened, taking it. “Thank you!”

“You’re welcome. Take care.”

Holding the large teddy bear, Fekla dashed back towards her Naneth’s shop, skirts swishing around her legs. “Naneth, Naneth!”

“What is it, dear?”

“Look what they bought me!” Fekla held up the large teddy bear. The girl’s mother smiled, chuckling. 

“I see! Did you tell them thank you?”

“Uh huh!” Fekla nodded. “I hope I see them again.” 

“Maybe you will, dear. Maybe you will.”  

When the five Commanders approached where the ship was landed, an all out war had broken out, snowballs flying every which way and breaking against massive fortresses of snow and ice. “I think they’ll appreciate the hot cocoa.” Moose noted in amusement, holding the multiple containers of it. 

“I think so.” Fang agreed with a laugh. 

After a large pot of it was bubbling, Squirrel now being in charge of watching it and dishing it out, Moose lifted his fingers to his mouth, whistling loudly to bring the snow war to a screeching halt. “Alright, men, inside!” Wolffe called once Moose had gotten their attention. “Kanerth knows you’ll go at this all night if we let you!” 

“Once you are inside, the other Commanders are in the dining hall, with hot cocoa and food to eat!” Moose added. “You all only- Trooper Yuna!”

“Commander Wolffe only addressed the men, sir!” Yuna responded mischievously, nailing Boost on the head with a snowball. 

“You know full well he meant you as well, trooper!” Moose folded his arms. “But should you really wish to play by that technicality, I’m sure I can make that distinction official!” 

“I’m coming.” Yuna laughed, pushing herself up to follow the others in. 

In the dining hall, Squirrel filled the cups as Fang passed them to him, handing them out to the troopers as they filed in from outside. Cricket had been placed in charge of cutting up and distributing meat from the bear, handing that out as well. 

“Hey, no refills.” Squirrel scolded the trooper in front of him, pausing for a moment. “You’ve already had your cocoa, you do not get a second one.”

“Gotta make sure there’s enough for everyone to get some.” Fang agreed, shooing him back towards the tables. 

“Attention, troopers! You will only be getting one cup of hot cocoa!” Moose called, witnessing that from where he was now leaning against the wall. Faint grumbles of complaint greeted that announcement, a few troopers sheepishly trudging from the line. Wolffe chuckled slightly, shaking his head. 

Still watching over the troopers, Moose’s tendrils extended, reaching over the line to hover in front of Cricket, curling in silent demand. “Wait your turn, Moose, I’m not done cutting.” Cricket grunted, swatting at his tendrils with his wing. Moose’s tendrils smacked Cricket’s head in response to that, pointing towards the meat again. “Do you want me to chop off a finger, Moose?” Cricket demanded, his own tendrils smacking at Moose’s now. 

“It’ll grow back!” Moose called, the two swatting at each other with their tendrils like a pair of children flailing their hands at each other. 

“Fuck you! Keep that up and you won’t get any!”

Hitting Cricket’s head one more time, Moose’s tendrils then retreated. Cricket grumbled, glaring at him, passing pieces over to Fang and Squirrel instead, maintaining eye contact with his larger brother the whole time. Just as he was about to pass one to Wolffe, Moose’s tendril shot out, curling around it and snatching it away.

“Moose!” Wolffe protested this time. “That was mine!” 

Taking a hold of the meat, Moose deliberately took a large bite out of it, not saying a word. Wolffe grumbled at him, sullenly accepting another piece when Cricket handed it to him. 

“Wolffe, do you not want hot cocoa?” Rela asked, noticing he hadn’t taken any- that none of the Commanders had, for that matter. Wolffe shook his head. 

“No, I’m fine.”

“You should have some, to warm up.” Rela pushed. 

“I’m fine, Rela.” Wolffe repeated, smiling slightly. “You go ahead. I prefer tea anyway.”

“I’ll ask Master Plo to make you some, then.” Rela decided. 

“Thank you.” Wolffe agreed after a second, nodding. Ten minutes later, Rela returned with five cups of tea, handing them out to the Commanders, who accepted them with thanks. Once the last of the meat and hot cocoa had been distributed, the five went to settle at the smaller table they usually occupied. 

“Wolffe?” Squirrel glanced at him, taking a sip of his tea, a datapad on the table in front of him. The datawork never ended, even on leave. 

“Yeah?” Wolffe looked at him. Squirrel reached into his bag, tugging something out, then holding a small stuffed wolf out to the other Commander. “..Oh, Squirrel.” Wolffe chuckled after staring at it in surprise for a second. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“It’s fine.” Squirrel dismissed, handing it to him. 

“Thank you.” 

Aim sat on the snow outside, slowly drinking his hot cocoa and eating his piece of the meat, watching the setting sun. A soft snort was heard a few feet away, a group of white furred wolves standing there and watching him curiously when he turned his head towards the sound. He startled slightly, staring at them in surprise. 

“Hello.” He offered after a second. The wolves seemed to take that as an invitation to join him, padding over and laying in the snow around him, one of them resting its head in his lap. Aim looked back up at the sunset, absentmindedly stroking its head and not hearing the soft click of a camera from the ramp behind him as Plo captured the moment before going back inside, leaving Aim to enjoy the quiet. 

Chapter Text

The light purple Twi’lek was sitting on the lap of the taller, golden yellow skinned male Twi’lek sitting on the throne in the middle of the large, mostly empty room. He smiled at her, kissing her forehead gently as the doors opened. “Alright, Liru, I have to take this report.” He murmured, starting to move her off his lap and into the smaller throne beside his so he could stand. “After that, we’ll go have lunch.” 

“Alright, Teldan.”

As the Twi’lek man stood up, going to address the security official who had just entered, a holoprojection of a human man appeared in the middle of the throne room, his arms folded and an arrogant, smug expression on his face. Teldan narrowed his eyes slightly, studying the hologram suspiciously. 

“Who are you?”

Liru sat up straighter in her seat, lekku stiffening as the man responded. “I am General Tremaine of the Separatists. And you are going to follow my every order, Emperor. ”

“And why, exactly, would I do that?” 

“Bring the tailhead here!” Tremaine snapped, looking offscreen. Teldan’s eyes narrowed further at the slur, folding his arms. A B1 droid shoved a light purple Twi’lek into view, the young woman bearing an exact resemblance to Liru, her face bruised where she had obviously been hit. Tremaine grabbed one of her lekku, shoving her down to kneel down in front of him as he pressed a blaster against the back of her head. “I’m sure you recognize your precious daughter, Emperor Devereaux.” 

“What do you want?” Teldan practically growled, stiffening. 

“You are not going to resist our invasion of Ryloth.” 

“What the hell do the Separatists want with Ryloth?”

Ignoring the question, Tremaine continued. “Should your forces fight back, you will be down one daughter. But seeing as you have two more, I don’t imagine that should bother you. The choice is all yours.”

Teldan fought back the urge to make a scathing response, mind already racing, trying to figure out how to get ahead of this as Liru came up beside him to grasp his hand, the Queen staring up at him. “Teldan, please.” She said softly. “That’s our daughter.”

“Fine.” Teldan agreed reluctantly, still glaring at the General, choosing his next words carefully. “My military will not fight against you.”

“Good. Should anything be done, you can say goodbye to your daughter.” 

“And should we cooperate, she will be returned to us?”

“ If you cooperate, yes.”

“Fine.”

Liru buried her face in her hands after the holoprojection disappeared, being scooped into Teldan’s arms. “Don’t worry, Liru, we’ll get her back.” He promised quietly, turning to the waiting security officer. “Get a secure channel directly to the Jedi Council. Make certain it is secure, I want no chances taken.” He instructed sharply. 

“Yes, Emperor.” The officer nodded, turning and striding out of the room briskly. Teldan sat down again, cradling Liru. 

“We’ll get her back.” He promised again softly. 

It took a little bit of time to get a secure enough connection to Coruscant without the Separatists detecting it, but it was soon achieved, and allowed Teldan more time to collect information before making contact. When the call was put through, he set Liru gently on her throne again, he stood up as the holograms of the Council appeared in front of him. 

“Masters. I’m afraid I must dispense with the pleasantries, I have little time to spare. The Separatists are invading Ryloth, and they have taken my daughter, Princess Marde, hostage. Among others, my scouts tell me. Should my military make a move against them, he will execute Marde and all the others.” 

Master Windu frowned, nodding. “We will send a legion at once, then.” 

“A legion may not be enough, from what we’ve discovered. Their numbers are massive, and General Tremaine is leading the assault.” Teldan grimaced slightly. “There is little I can do except evacuate my cities as quickly and quietly as I can, to prevent him taking more hostages. At the slightest breath of my doing anything else, he will execute them all, and this is not a small number of people we are talking about.”

Windu nodded again after a moment. “The one hundred and eighty-seventh, the two hundred and twelfth, and the three hundred and twenty-seventh-” Windu was interrupted before he could finish that sentence, Teldan shaking his head adamantly. 

“No. Do not send Aayla and Shiri. Neither as a ruler, nor as a father can I risk Tremaine gaining any more leverage than he already has.”

“The five hundred and first, then.” Windu decided. 

“That will be fine.” Teldan nodded sharply. “Thank you, Master Windu.” 

The light lavender colored Twi’lek poked her head out, clutching a twelve year old boy to her tightly, looking around warily for the droids that had ransacked their village before stepping out of her hiding place. “Are you alright, numa* ?” Another, darker purple Twi’lek called softly upon seeing her, slowly emerging from one of the destroyed huts. 

Shoulders easing slightly at seeing her, the first Twi’lek nodded. “We’re both okay. Are you hurt, numa ?”

“I don’t think so.” The dark purple one shook her head, taking a deep breath. “I’m Lunae.”

“I’m Jikan.” She looked around again. “And this is my nephew, Pel.”

“We should get out of here.” Lunae murmured, going over to the two, standing beside them. 

“Where do we go?” Jikan looked around at the destroyed village again. It seemed they were the only three who had escaped… possibly survived. 

“The city? It must be safer there.”

Jikan nodded after a second, bracing herself. “Then let’s go.”

“We’d better gather what water we can, it’s a long walk.” Lunae said practically after a moment, dusting herself off and going to start looking for any supplies that might have survived the destruction. 

After they’d found every last bit of water there was, now packed into large containers in backs strapped to their backs, the two women started their trek, Jikan still holding Pel tightly as they started towards the city. 

“I hope no more of those droids are nearby.” Jikan murmured as they trudged along. 

“So do I.” Lunae grimaced. “I’m certain help will arrive soon, though.”

Jikan bounced her small nephew, the boy’s head resting on her shoulder. “Why would they come here?” She sounded lost. “There’s nothing we have they should be interested in.”

“I don’t know.” Lunae shook her head. “Ourselves, I suppose. But I really don’t know.”

After several hours of trekking through the desert, Lunae stopped abruptly. Jikan looked at her, tilting her head slightly in question. “You hear something?” She asked quietly. 

“Voices. Someone’s coming” Lunae answered, looking around and spotting a couple of large boulders. “We’d better hide until we see who it is. Over there.”

The two Twi’lek women hurriedly dashed over, ducking down behind the rocks. Jikan peeked out slightly, squinting ahead to see who was approaching. 

“Stay quiet, Pel.” Lunae whispered to the young boy, who hid his face in his aunt’s shoulder, clinging to her tightly. 

“...I think it’s people?” Jikan breathed. “They could be droids… I don’t think it’s droids, though.” She squinted at the group as they got closer, one of the white and purple armored figures looking over briefly and startling slightly, having spotted her. 

“Hey, there’s civilians over there.” The armored figure called to his companions. One of them, in a different set of armor than the rest, held up a hand, clearly saying something to them that the two couldn’t make out before starting towards them, taking off her helmet to reveal a woman’s face underneath. Lunae peeked over the rock, standing up cautiously after a moment. 

“You two hurt?” The female trooper asked. 

“No.” Lunae shook her head. “You’re Republic troopers, aren’t you?”

“We are.” She confirmed. “I’m Major Kukui. We’ll get you to safety.”

Lunae nodded, relief flickering through her expression. “Thank you.” 

Kukui put her helmet back on, striding back over to the group of troopers, leading the Twi’leks after her. “Do we go back, Comman- Major?” One of them asked, correcting himself midsentence. 

“We do.” Kukui confirmed with a sharp nod, looking over her shoulder when the young Twi’lek boy piped up quietly. 

“Why’d he call you Commander?”

“Pel, don’t pester them.” Lunae admonished quietly. After a second, head tilted, Kukui hummed. 

“That’s because I was a Commander, before I chose to be demoted for personal reasons.” She answered, taking the boy in her arms after he reached out. 

“Still getting used to the change.” One of the other troopers chuckled. 

“You two should stay between us.” Kukui instructed the two women, holding the boy still as they started walking. The two complied without complaint, grateful for some sense of safety. After a while of walking again, the group approached a temporary camp, filled with troopers in three different colors of armor hurrying around, doing various tasks. 

“I’ll go put in our report, Kukui, if you want to take them over to the tents and get them settled.” The other Major told her.

“Sounds good.” Kukui confirmed. “You lot, stick with Lazer.” She instructed the troopers before leading the Twi’leks towards one of the large tents. “I’ll have the medics look you three over.” She explained. “You’ll be given fresher water and some food as well.”

“Thank you.” Lunae nodded gratefully. Kukui cleared her throat, stopping in the entrance of the tent, then gesturing to the Twi’leks. 

“These civilians need a check up.” She stated, setting Pel down and nudging him forward gently. 

“I’ll take them.” An orange skinned Togruta beckoned them over, standing by one of the makeshift beds. “My name is Ratchet.” He told the trio when they approached, gesturing for them to sit down. “Any injuries?”

“No, I don’t think we have any.” Jikan answered, pulling Pel onto her lap. “I’m Jikan, and this is my nephew, Pel. And that’s Lunae.” 

Ratchet nodded. “Any symptoms of heat sickness? Headache, blurry vision, dizziness?”

Jikan shook her head. “No, we took the chance to dunk ourselves in the water for an hour when we passed the river.”

“Good.” Ratchet nodded. “I’m just going to check all your vitals, and then I’ll bring you some water and something to eat.”

Jikan bounced her nephew on her lap as the Togruta walked away, holding him close. “You feeling alright?” Lunae asked her quietly. 

“I think what happened is finally sinking in.” Jikan admitted softly. “I don’t know where me and Pel would go after this is over.”

“Me neither.” Lunae agreed quietly, exhaling. “Maybe we should stick together.”

Jikan nodded, reaching out to squeeze Lunae’s hand, the two sitting together quietly. 

“That’s another group of the hostages out, General.” The Commander told Windu briskly, holding her blaster tightly. “Almost all of them now.”

“Good, Kitsune.” Windu nodded. Kitsune answered her comm as it buzzed. 

“What is it, Stak?”

“You played well, Commander.” Tremaine’s voice came through the comm, Windu’s eyes immediately narrowing. “I almost didn’t suspect. But you should really teach your rookies to be quieter.” 

Kitsune stiffened, eyes narrowing under her helmet. “General Tremaine.” 

“I will give you all one opportunity to surrender. Otherwise, your troopers die along with the hostages.” 

Kitsune looked at Windu, tilting her head in a silent, evident question. He gave a sharp nod in response. “Fine. We’re surrendering, General.” Kitsune’s tone was short. 

“A wise decision, Commander.” 

Kitsune ended the call before snorting quietly. “Idiot.”

Windu’s lips twitched faintly at that before his expression neutralized again. “Come, Commander.” He said calmly, striding out of the tunnel, the two of them being greeted by a large group of battle droids. Both of them dropped their weapons, raising their hands in surrender, arms immediately being cuffed behind their backs. 

Tremaine stood on top of a makeshift platform in the middle of the droids perimeter, his blaster pressed against the head of the Twi’lek woman forced to kneel beside him, a cruel smirk twisting his expression as they were brought forward alongside their troopers. “Well, well, Master Windu! If this isn’t a lucky catch.” He sneered, before his attention shifted to Kitsune, one eyebrow raising slightly. A droid took his place on the platform, holding a blaster to the woman’s head again, Kitsune’s wings stiffening as Tremaine strode towards her. 

“Well, aren’t you interesting?” Tremaine remarked, Kitsune hissing and arching her wings as he yanked off her helmet, grasping her chin. 

“Get your hands off her, Tremaine.” Windu said sharply, the Jedi’s expression darkening. 

“Or what?” Tremaine sneered, glancing briefly at him before looking back at Kitsune. “I must say, Commander… you’re very pretty, despite the issue of you being a flesh droid. ” 

Kitsune’s wings arched more, eyes blazing at the backhanded compliment. “Those are very fitting scars, General.” She bit out. “Perhaps Commander Gree should have left you some more.” 

Tremaine scowled, letting go of her chin and taking out a dagger, slashing it diagonally across her face before she or Windu had a chance to react. 

“Since you like them so much.” He growled. Kitsune stumbled back, a screech escaping her as the pain set in, blood starting to trickle down her face and blinding her. “Ah, ah, Master Windu.” Tremaine scolded, tone mocking, when the Jedi took a step towards him, pointing his dagger back towards the Twi’lek woman kneeling on the platform. “I’m the one in charge, here. Don’t do anything foolish.”

After a second, forcing his eyes away from Kitsune, Windu responded. “Never show all your cards, General, you’ll lose the game.”

Tremaine laughed. “I seem to have won here, haven’t I?” He challenged, not noticing the clone commander dive down from the cliff above the perimeter, a panicked scream being heard from the droid with the blaster a second later as Ponds swooped past, snatching the Twi’lek woman into his arms and turning upwards sharply, flying away from the scene just as Tremaine whipped around. 

“I think, General, you’re mistaken.” Windu answered, lunging towards Tremaine with his hands still bound behind his back, kicking the Separatist off his feet and sending him flying with the Force. Following their Jedi’s lead, the clones started fighting back as well, reclaiming their weapons from the droids. 

“General!” Stak called, having retrieved Windu’s lightsaber for him, tossing it across the field to him. Windu caught it in one hand, activating it and cutting through his restraints before starting to cut down droids, keeping near Kitsune to defend the currently defenseless Commander. In the middle of the chaos of the battle, though, Tremaine managed to slip away, proven by the clones spotting a fighter take off a couple minutes later. 

“Fuck!” Stak swore, bristling as he stared after the fighter. 

“We’ll get him another time.” Razor told him, shooting down another droid. “Come on, let’s finish this!”

When the battle died down, the droid forces destroyed, Windu spoke into his comm. “This is General Windu to Commanders Borealis and Viper. The hostages are freed, you are clear to launch the next phase of the defenses.”

“Understood, General.” 

Kitsune leaned heavily on Windu, her face covered in blood as her General helped her back into the camp, following the troopers escorting the rescued Twi’lek hostages. “Come on.” Windu murmured, helping her towards the medical tent. Sitting down on one of the beds, Kitsune winced as Windu took a damp cloth, starting to carefully wipe the blood away. 

“I’m sorry about that.” Windu grimaced. “It shouldn’t have happened.”

“It’s not your fault, General.” Kitsune answered, sitting still while he cleaned up her face. 

“I will make sure he doesn’t get near you again, if I can do anything to prevent it.” Windu promised her. 

“It’s not… that big of a deal, General.” Kitsune sounded slightly confused. Windu paused, frowning slightly. 

“Your safety is of the utmost importance to me, Commander, and the particular risk that Tremaine now poses to you is not one you signed up for when you began fighting this war.”

“I don’t think I follow.” Kitsune admitted after a second, no less confused. 

“Do you understand why, exactly, he was so interested in you, Kitsune?” Windu asked carefully. 

“Because I’m a Commander?” 

Windu exhaled slowly after a moment, considering how to best approach this. It had been hard enough having this discussion with his daughters, when his wife was there to help. “No. No, I’m afraid that wasn’t it.” Kitsune listened as Windu started to explain, head tilted to the side as she took in his words, nodding slowly once he had finished. Windu let her process it, finishing bandaging her wound. 

“...Is feeling like you’re prey common during that, then?”

Windu nodded. “It is, from what my sisters have told me.” 

“How many sisters do you have, General?” Kitsune asked after a moment, ready to change the subject for now. 

“Four.” Windu answered. “All younger.” 

“What are they like?” 

A small smile crossed Windu’s face at the question. “Veda is the eldest after me. She has children of her own as well, and she’s very responsible. Still knows how to have fun, though.” He answered. “Esha is a designer, very creative and artistic.” Kitsune nodded, listening to the Koraduran Jedi as he continued. “Nithya is full of mischief. She’s always up to something.” His lips twitched slightly. “Very good with animals, though, she plans to become a ranger. And Ila is the youngest. She’s still just a teenager, but I can’t believe how fast she’s grown up.”

“How old is your youngest sister?” Kitsune wondered.

“Sixteen.” Windu answered, smiling slightly. “You seem in better spirits now. Are you feeling better?”

“I think so, sir. Thank you.”

“Good.” Windu nodded. “Should anything ever trouble you, Commander, I am happy to listen.” 

An air battle waged overhead as the three 212th troopers made their way through one of the destroyed villages, blasters at the ready in case any droids remained present. The silence was eerie, even with the battle above them. 

“Do you think there’s anyone left here?” Waxer asked quietly, sounding rather subdued. Tinker shifted her blaster to one hand, squeezing his arm slightly. 

“If there is, we’ll help them.” She reassured, elbowing Boil so he’d keep his mouth shut. Boil grunted slightly, rolling his eyes at her behind his helmet as they continued on, looking for anyone who could’ve survived. 

After a couple minutes, the sound of something moving broke the silence, a little Twi’lek girl freezing in the middle of the ruined alleyway when the troopers spotted her. “She might think we’re droids.” Tinker realized, shoving her blaster into Boil’s arms before taking her helmet off, passing it to Waxer. “Boil, behave.” She hissed quietly to her more outspoken, abrasive brother before approaching the girl, kneeling down once a few feet away. “It’s ok, we’re here to help you.” She promised quietly. 

The girl still seemed nervous, tilting her head up to study Tinker for a moment before launching forward, latching onto her. “Numa!” Tinker blinked, wrapping her arms gently around the child after a second, holding her as her brothers approached. 

“Is she okay?” Waxer frowned, taking off his helmet as well, kneeling beside her. 

“Pass me a ration bar.” Tinker held her out her hand after looking the girl over. Boil complied, handing one over to her, Tinker breaking off a piece and holding it up to the little Twi’lek’s mouth. “It’s nasty, but it’ll help how hungry you are.” 

The girl tilted her head slightly, taking the piece of the ration bar after a moment and slowly putting it in her mouth while Tinker reached into her pack, taking out the small bottle of water and unscrewing the lid, letting the little girl drink her fill once she’d finished the ration bar. 

“I’ll bet her family’s with the group the ‘eighty seventh’s just rescued.” Boil said upon noticing the faintly distressed look in Waxer’s eyes as he surveyed the destruction, softening briefly. “We should try and get her back to camp.” 

“We need to get her to safety.” Tinker agreed, shifting the girl to one arm as she stood up, taking her helmet back from Waxer. “Let’s get back.”

Once the three reached the camp, a call in Twi’leki was heard from further in as the little girl was spotted, a teenage Twi’lek boy dashing up, eyes locked on her. “Numa!” 

**“Nerra!” The little girl wriggled free of Tinker’s arms, immediately dashing towards the boy and being scooped up, the two chattering at each other in Twi’leki as they hugged each other tightly. 

“See? Told ya. You can relax now.” Boil told Waxer, nudging him slightly. Waxer’s wings twitched in response, watching the two children with a faint smile. The teenager glanced at them, looking around after a moment and pointing to the darker purple Twi’lek woman he’d seen speaking Basic to a few of the soldiers. 

“Numa? Numa!” He called, catching her attention, the woman walking over briskly. 

“Yes, little one?” 

“Can you tell them thank you for finding Numa?” 

Lunae smiled, nodding, turning her attention to the triplets. “He wants to thank you for finding his little sister.”

“Numa. Her name is Numa.” 

“For finding Numa.” Lunae amended. “That’s her name.”

The boy hugged Numa closer, pointing to himself. “Vek. I’m Vek.” 

“Nice to meet you, Vek.” Waxer answered without needing Lunae to translate, kneeling down. “I’m Waxer.” 

The boy’s face scrunched up slightly, carefully pronouncing a few words in broken Basic. “What your name?”

“Waxer.” He repeated. 

“... That no name?” Vek asked after a second. “Wax is…” He made a few motions, as if he was polishing something. Lunae chuckled, stepping in to explain. 

“These soldiers have different customs, Vek. It is a name to them.”

Vek considered that, lekku twitching slightly as he nodded, pointing to the other two. “Who you?”

“My name is Boil.” Boil answered, then gestured to his sister. “And hers is Tinker.” 

After a second, Vek looked back at Lunae. “Boil isn’t a name either. These soldiers are odd.” 

“I know, but we must be polite, Vek.” Lunae chided gently. 

“Sorry, sorry…” Vek mumbled before looking up at Waxer when he spoke again. 

“Where are your parents, Vek?”

“Gutkurrs eat them. When Numa infant.”

Waxer frowned. “I’m sorry.” 

“We’re packing up, you three.” A voice interrupted, a blue and white trooper appearing by them, Kicker glancing briefly at the Twi’leks before looking back at her siblings. “Generals say we’re dropping the Twi’leks off at the capital city, so housing can be found for them.”

Waxer stood up. “These two don’t have any family.” He explained worriedly. “What’ll happen to them?”

Jikan walked up beside Lunae in time to hear this question, holding her nephew’s hand, Pel having a 212th helmet on his head and giggling quietly in glee. “That’s hard to say.” Jikan answered. “Likely they’ll be placed in homes, probably split up so it’s more manageable and less expensive for their chosen carers.”

“Split up?” Waxer frowned slightly, wings twitching. 

“I’ll take them.” Lunae interrupted firmly, Jikan glancing at her. “I have no one else, and I’ve grown rather fond of Vek. I would hate to see them parted again after all of this.”

Jikan nodded in acknowledgement, then looked back at Waxer. “Ryloth is still recovering, and our royals are still quite new. The rulers before that made our people slaves, and drained everything we had. It’s unwise financially to have more than a few children, as it’s difficult to support them.” Waxer nodded in reluctant understanding, before going to help the others finish packing up the camp. 

Suddenly, just as everything was prepared to leave, a Twi’lek’s scream was heard. 

“GUTKURRS!” 

“Just couldn’t be simple!” Boil growled, snatching his blaster from his side as he whipped around to see the massive, insect-like creatures swarming towards them. Screams erupted from the Twi’leks, Jikan sweeping up Pel into her arms before bolting towards the waiting warships, followed closely by her newfound friend as she ushered Vek and Numa along quickly. 

The clones quickly lunged forward to deal with the creatures, the Jedi swiftly joining in the defense while the Twi’leks retreated. The creatures were fierce, but ultimately no match for the hunting prowess of the Kashgar, and after a swift but tough fight all of them had been killed. The clones started to gather up the dead Gutkurrs afterwards, to use for food. 

No point letting meat go to waste, even if these weren’t the most amazing prey in the galaxy. 

Once the Twi’leks had been taken to where they’d been situated for now, a fourth warship approaching was heard. “That must be Padawan Vran returning with the permanent brigade.” Obi-Wan remarked, looking up from discussing the events of the campaign with Anakin and Windu. 

“We’d better go meet them.” Anakin agreed, the three heading towards where it would land. The ramp lowered once it had settled, Padawan Razee Vran striding down it briskly. Strangely, though, she was pulling the two Ti Padawans through the air via the Force and a lasso, followed by Aurora, who was doing the same to a sulking Naida. 

The three adult Jedi just looked at each other for a moment, Anakin visibly trying not to laugh as Windu addressed the Mikkian teenager. “Do I even want to ask what happened to warrant this, Padawan Vran?”

“Padawans Ti and Padawan Bluefin immediately dashed off as soon as we were inside Kamino.” 

“Naida.” Windu sighed, directing a stern look at his Padawan. Naida’s sulky look only increased, her arms folded, sat cross legged midair.

“Padawan Pax got snatched up by shinies, so her disappearance wasn’t entirely her fault.” Razee added. 

“I didn’t mean to.” Aurora huffed. “I promised I’d be good.” 

“Can we get put down now?” Lohsa sounded slightly petulant, glaring at Razee. 

“No, not yet.” Rex interrupted, hurrying towards them with Cody in tow, the two of them having gotten a camera from… somewhere. 

“No!” Lohsa immediately protested, going a darker blue. 

“Rex!” Ahsoka whined, looking slightly betrayed. Naida didn’t speak, simply burying her head in her arms. 

“Sorry, Commander.” Rex laughed a bit, Ponds joining them and nudging Naida’s chin up. 

“At least look at them, Naida.” He chuckled, before diving out of the shot as Rex snapped the picture. Razee set the three Padawans down afterwards, Lohsa immediately yanking the lasso off and dashing towards the 212th warship. Obi-Wan shook his head, chuckling slightly as he looked at Cody. 

“Do make sure Master Ti gets a copy of that photo, Commander.” 

“I will, sir.” Cody nodded. “But we should probably brief the shinies now.”

“Of course. Proceed, Commander.”

Chapter Text

“You wanted to see me, Master Windu?” Razee asked, stopping a few feet away from the Jedi Master. 

“Yes.” Windu nodded, turning to face the Mikkian Padawan. “Even once we’ve routed the Separatists from Ryloth, it is likely they will try to take another shot at it. With that in mind, we’ve judged it best to station a brigade here, at least temporarily. I would like you to go to Kamino and collect them.”

“Ok, Master Windu.” Razee answered with a nod. 

“Master Ti should have things mostly ready by the time you get there.”

“I’ll go to Kamino now, then.” 

“Good.” Windu nodded, about to turn back to the mission plan when a small voice piped up, Naida standing beside him. 

“Can me and Aurora go with Razee, Master?”

Windu considered that, glancing at Razee. “Are you comfortable supervising them, Padawan Vran?”

“I am, Master.” Razee nodded. 

“You may go, then.” Windu nodded. “But you must be on your best behavior, you two.”

“Can Ahsoka and Lohsa come too?” Aurora wondered. 

“...If Master Kenobi and Knight Skywalker are okay with that.” Razee agreed after a second. 

“Go ask them.” Windu agreed with another nod, turning back to the plan. Razee led the two younger Padawans out, pulling out her comm to call Obi-Wan. 

“Yes?” The Master answered after a moment. 

“Master Windu asked me to go to Kamino to get a Brigade, and Pax and Bluefin wanted to come, so does Ti want to as well, Master?”

“I’ll ask her.” Obi-Wan replied. “Lohsa!” 

“Yeah, Master?” Lohsa’s voice came through faintly. 

“Padawan Vran is going to Kamino. She’s taking Bluefin and Pax, do you want to go as well?” 

“Yes please!”

“You can come collect her then, Razee.” Obi-Wan told her. 

“We’ll be there shortly, Master Kenobi.”

“Thank you.” 

After collecting Ahsoka first, Razee landed their small shuttle in the landing bay of the 212th warship, leading the three Padawans down after her before Ahsoka suddenly zoomed off, dragging the other two after her. 

“You two have gotta see the hatchling!” 

“We’re meant to be going to Kamino!” Razee called after them in protest. 

“It’ll only be a second!” Ahsoka called back as they disappeared around the corner. Razee grunted, folding her arms and sitting down on the ramp to wait. 

Ahsoka led the other two along quickly, soon locating Hive and waving at her quickly. “Hi!”

Hive paused to stare at them, arching an eyebrow. “Since when did we gain three more Padawans?” 

Ahsoka giggled. “No, we’re just visiting for a second. I wanted Aurora and Naida to meet little Cannoli.”

“Alright, this way.” Hive agreed, turning and leading them down the hall. 

“You’re not gonna believe how cute he is.” Ahsoka whispered to the other two as Hive led them into one of the rec rooms. Naida immediately squealed when she saw the hatchling, eyes lighting up, snatching up the tiny Kashgar and hugging him. Cannoli squeaked in surprise at the sudden hug, looking up at Naida with wide eyes before a curious babble left him, the little hatchling sniffing at her inquisitively.

“He’s so cute!” Naida declared, showing him to Aurora. 

“Awww!” Aurora giggled, stroking the hatchling’s fluffy wings as he blinked at them innocently. 

Back at the shuttle, Razee was still waiting, looking rather annoyed and bored now. “Commander Cody?” She called, stopping him when he passed by. 

“Yes, Commander Vran?” Cody looked back at her. 

“Please call the other Padawans and remind them we do need to get to Kamino.” 

Cody nodded. “I’ll do that. How long have you been waiting?”

“Fifteen minutes.”

“..I’ll just go get them.” Cody decided. “That’ll be more effective, since I’m guessing they went to play with Cannoli.” 

Finding them exactly where he’d predicted they’d be, Cody’s tendrils unfurled, extending and plucking Cannoli out of Lohsa’s arms, causing her to whine in protest. “If you four still want to go to Kamino you’d better get moving, you have two minutes before Commander Vran leaves without you.”

Naida squeaked, immediately bolting towards the hangar with Aurora and the two Togrutas quickly following her, all of them skidding to a stop in front of Razee a minute later. “Get on the ship.” She sighed, standing up. 

“Sorry.” Aurora told her sheepishly. “The baby was really cute.” 

Razee landed the shuttle on one of the landing platforms of the Kamino facility, unbuckling herself and making her way towards the exit, pausing just before pressing the button to lower the ramp. “You four better be on your best behavior.” She told them. 

“I will!” Aurora promised earnestly, trotting up beside her. Ahsoka, however, made no such promise. 

Razee eyed Ahsoka slightly skeptically, but pressed the button. “Right, stick by-” She started to instruct, cut off by three blurs dashing by her as the two Togrutas and Naida scattered, darting into the facility to explore. 

“Guys!” Aurora yelped, sticking by Razee’s side, looking up at the older Padawan guiltily, as if she’d been the one to make them scatter. Razee sighed after a second, rubbing her face in exasperation. 

Now she had to go round them up. 

Lohsa pelted through the facility, sniffing the air as she dodged around groups of clones traversing the hallways, determined to find her mother. Her efforts paid off after a little while, the Padawan brightening as she caught the older Togruta’s scent, beelining towards the closed door at the end of the hallway that the scent led towards. It slid open easily at her approach, allowing her access to a balcony area overlooking a large room. Shaak was facing away from the door, standing beside two other clones. 

“Mama!” Lohsa exclaimed excitedly, practically tackling her. 

“Oh, goodness, Lohsa!” Shaak exclaimed in surprise. “What are you doing here?”

Hugging Shaak’s waist, Lohsa beamed up at her mother. “We came with Razee!” 

“I see.” Shaak chuckled. “Does that include your sister, then?” Lohsa nodded, still hugging her. “Where is she?” 

“Gone to see the babies!”

Shaak nodded, looking at Colt and Whiplash. “Do you two mind overseeing this exercise yourselves?”

“We don’t, General.” Whiplash shook her head. 

“Let’s find your sister, Lohsa.” Shaak plucked up her daughter, walking out of the training room. Lohsa snuggled into her happily, head resting on Shaak’s shoulder and arms wrapped around Shaak’s neck. Shaak pressed a kiss to Lohsa’s montrals, carrying her towards the nurseries to find Ahsoka. 

Naida scurried through the long white hallways, giggling quietly to herself, silver eyes sparkling with mischief. When she turned the corner, a group of young cadets were huddled together up ahead, whispering conspiratorially as she scurried towards them. 

“Hello!” She called enthusiastically, getting them to look up. 

“Hi!” They answered with equal excitement. 

“What are you doing?” Naida wondered curiously. 

“We’re setting a trap.” One of them declared, showing her a bucket. 

“Can I help?” Naida asked. 

“Yeah!”

Naida grinned eagerly, joining their little huddle. “We’re gonna fill the bucket with water, and position it over Commander Havoc’s door.” One of them told her in a whisper. “But we’ve gotta do it without him hearing or seeing us.”

“I can help with that.” Naida whispered back, lifting the bucket with the Force. One of the cadets scrunched up his face slightly. 

“Isn’t that a little cheaty?” 

“There’s no other way to do it without being noticed.” One of the other cadets pointed out. 

“Okay, I guess so then.”

A few minutes later, Naida lifted the bucket up to balance just right on the ledge above the door, two of the cadets hiding to the sides of it and securing the rope so that the Commander would trigger the trap. 

“It’s ready!” One of them whispered. “Let’s hide!”

The group of six split up, three of them going to each end of the hallway, peeking around the corners and waiting. After a couple minutes, their patience paid off, the door opening and a yelp of surprise being heard from the Commander as the bucket dumped on his head. Immediately, the cadets burst out into giggles, drawing his attention to them. 

“I suppose this is your doing, eh?” Havoc shook his head, wiping the water out of his eyes. 

“Uh huh!” One cadet nodded, giggling. 

“You’d better run, then, before I get you!” Havoc answered, arching his wings with a playful growl. Immediately, screams erupted from the cadets, Naida being dragged after two of them as they scattered. 

“Run!” Click urged her hurriedly, him and his twin pulling her along down the hall as fast as they could, Havoc laughing as they scattered. Catching her balance, Naida pushed herself to dash along faster, following them. 

“Do you think we lost him?” Clank whispered, slowing down after they’d dashed down a couple corridors. Before either of them could answer, Click shrieked as he was suddenly scooped up, Havoc having snuck up behind the trio. 

“Gotcha.” Havoc laughed, looking down as Clank immediately screeched and tackled Havoc’s leg in an attempt to free his brother, the Commander easily scooping him up as well, nuzzling both squirming cadets. 

“No!” Click complained, trying to wriggle free. 

“You knew what you were getting into.” Havoc chuckled, nuzzling the cadet as he tried to escape. Naida squeaked as she was plucked up next by the Commander, having been backing up slowly. “And where do you think you’re going? You’re not getting out of this either.”

Naida squirmed, pushing against Havoc’s armor, though giggling slightly when she was nuzzled as well. “Let’s go find where the rest of your co-conspirators ran off to.” Havoc chuckled, carrying the three children down the hall, coming across Colt and Hammer a couple corridors. 

“Take a dip in the ocean, Havoc?” Hammer asked, gesturing to the water dripping off the other Commander’s wings. 

“Nope. I was caught in a prank by five cadets and a baby Jedi.” 

“Quite a few of them running around today, aren’t there?” Colt cast an amused glance at Naida. “General Ti’s daughters are here too.”

Just as Colt said that, a small red Togruta dashed past, stood on two mouse droids that were carrying her along, cackling the whole way. 

“Should we be stopping that?” Hammer asked after that clicked. Colt swore, immediately bolting after the Togruta as Ahsoka’s cackling got further away. 

“Commander Ti, please don’t!” Colt chased after Ahsoka, skidding around the corner as she continued to cackle, maintaining her balance on the two mouse droids before Colt’s tendrils wound around her, lifting her up off of them as they raced ahead without her. Immediately, Ahsoka wriggled and twisted her way free, dashing on again. 

“Commander Ti-!” Colt rushed after her, Hammer now close behind them as they pursued the cackling Padawan. The two Commanders continued chasing her through the facility for nearly ten minutes, nearly smashing into each other when she just abruptly stopped. 

Ahsoka yawned, turning around and trudging towards them, holding up her arms. Colt eyed her suspiciously, not certain this wasn’t some kind of prank trap, before reaching down slowly to pick her up. Hammer backed away a couple feet, just to be safe. Apparently whatever fit of mischief had possessed the Padawan had passed, though, Ahsoka immediately snuggling into Colt’s arms with a purr and falling asleep. 

“..what the hell was that?” Hammer whispered. 

“I don’t know.” Colt admitted faintly. 

“Maybe we’d better just take her back to General Ti before she wakes up.”

Colt located Shaak near the nurseries, quickly going up to her. “General Ti?”

“Commander.” Shaak looked up with a smile. “Oh, you found Ahsoka!” 

“You could say that, General.” Colt sighed, holding out the sleeping Togruta as if she were a bomb waiting to go off. “Please take her before she wakes up.”

Shaak chuckled slightly, taking Ahsoka from him. “Caught her in one of her bursts of mischief, did you? I’m sorry, I hope she didn’t cause too much trouble.” 

“Could’ve been worse, General.” 

“There you are!” Razee huffed, spotting a Commander holding Naida. Aurora giggled slightly, trotting after the older girl as his attention turned to them. “Can we have Bluefin back?” Razee asked him. 

“Sure.” Havoc agreed reluctantly, extracting the Padawan from the pile of cadets in his arms, using his tendrils to set her down in front of Razee. Just as she grasped the Aearian’s wrist, Razee’s head snapped around when she heard Aurora squeak, the girl having been scooped up by a young clone in training armor, the cadet bolting before Havoc could stop them. 

“Sorry, Razee!” Aurora squeaked as she was carried off, Razee taking a deep breath and closing her eyes, pinching the bridge of her nose. 

At least Aurora could be trusted to stay out of trouble long enough for Razee to accomplish what she was actually sent here to do. 

“Who’s this?” Dove asked as her brother carried Aurora in. 

“Baby Jedi.” Cesar answered, the child looking a mix of excited and disgruntled at the same time. 

“Alright, guys, make room.” Dove scolded the other cadets, shoving them over to make room in the nest. 

“I’m gonna get in trouble!” Aurora protested as she was carried over. 

“We’ll take the blame.” Dove dismissed. 

“..Okay.” Aurora agreed after a second of considering that, immediately being wrapped in a blanket as she was plopped down in the middle of the nest, the cadets piling around her with content purrs and rumbles. Aurora giggled slightly, snuggling into the nest happily. She wasn’t gonna turn down an opportunity for cuddles and a nap.  

“Pax? Pax!” Razee shook Aurora awake, kneeling beside the nest. Aurora yawned, blinking groggily. 

“Hi…” She mumbled sleepily. 

“Come on, we need to return to Ryloth.” Razee’s tone softened slightly, lifting the sleepy twelve year old up into her arms. 

“Ok.” Aurora agreed, snuggling into her contently.

“Right, let’s- no, no you don’t.” Razee’s tone went flat, pulling Ahsoka and Naida back towards her. Ahsoka yelped indignantly. 

“But the clones wanna play!”

“And we have to get back to Ryloth.” Razee carried Aurora down the corridor, dragging the other Padawans after her, a plan forming in her mind. Setting Aurora down on the floor in a sitting position, Razee opened a storage closet door, pulling out some rope after hunting around for a moment before cutting it into three equal pieces. 

“...What is that for?” Ahsoka asked suspiciously. 

“You three are going in air jail.”

“Air jail? What’s that supposed to mean?” 

Razee tied one of the now three ropes around Lohsa, the Togruta immediately protesting as she was lifted up into the air via the Force, before the same was done to Ahsoka and Naida. Ahsoka giggled slightly, finding it rather funny at first. 

“Why are you laughing?!” Lohsa demanded. “You realize we can’t escape now?!” Ahsoka instantly went silent, the realization hitting her like a brick. 

Lohsa scowled as Razee picked Aurora back up, pulling the three along by the ropes as they floated behind her, walking back towards the ship. 

They weren’t getting away from her this time.

Chapter Text

The door to the command deck opened, Lohsa trotting inside and making her way over to where Obi-Wan and Cody were looking over a map, planning their next mission. “Lohsa.” Obi-Wan nodded to her slightly. 

“Master Kenobi, I don’t feel good.” Lohsa told him. The small Togruta admittedly didn’t look well, her dark blue skin a few shades lighter than what was normal. Obi-Wan frowned slightly, studying her. 

“Have you been to see Helix?”

Lohsa shook her head, a rush of dizziness sweeping through her with that, causing the child to briefly lose her balance and stumble. Obi-Wan caught her, scooping her up. “Alright, we’re going now.”

“Don’t feel good…” Lohsa mumbled as Obi-Wan carried her out of the command deck. 

“I know, we’re going.” Obi-Wan soothed, hurrying down the hall towards medbay. Helix looked up when Obi-Wan strode in, immediately putting down what he was doing. 

“General?”

“Lohsa’s unwell.” Obi-Wan set her on one of the beds gently, backing away and lingering worriedly. Helix made his way over quickly, checking the Togruta’s temperature first, wings ruffling in alarm after.

“Lohsa’s temperature is way too high, General, this isn’t just a normal bug.”

“Should we reroute to a medical facility?”

“Yes.” Helix nodded after a second. “I would suggest putting the ship in lockdown as well. Order anyone who’s touched Lohsa to come to medbay, we’ll go from there to see who needs to be quarantined.”

“I suppose that includes myself, then.” Obi-Wan frowned. “I will tell Commander Cody to redirect us. Do you know what it may be?”

“No.” Helix admitted. “But this is a dangerous temperature for a Togruta.”

Obi-Wan nodded, pressing his comm. “Cody, instruct the pilots to set course for the nearest medical facility. Lohsa is dangerously ill.”

“Yes sir.” Cody responded, almost immediately. “Is there anything else I should do?” 

“Helix has ordered that anyone who has come into contact with Lohsa recently report to medbay. The ship is to be put into lockdown until we know what we’re dealing with.” 

“Right.” A grimace was audible in Cody’s voice. “Understood. Take care of Lohsa.”

After an hour of trying to figure out what was wrong with the Padawan, Helix’s legs buckled, cursing quietly as a wave of dizziness rushed through him. Gritting his teeth, Helix forced himself back to his feet, stumbling over to the door and pressing the button that would put that section of the medbay into lockdown. A minute after that, Cody’s voice crackled over the intercom. 

“Medical, report in.” 

Helix dialed Cody’s number into his comm, all but collapsing onto a medical bed. “Helix, what’s going on?” Cody’s voice came through a second later. 

“Whatever Lohsa has, I’m infected as well. Tell everyone to stay away from medbay. For food and drink for us, have it left right outside the door, then immediately leave again.”

“Understood. We’ll reach a medical station in a couple hours.” 

Kieran looked up from his datawork when he heard a knock on the office door, sensing Daikon outside. “Come in!” Daikon pushed open the door, the Commander already dressed in hazmat gear, holding a set for Kieran. “They’re here, then?” Kieran asked, standing up. 

“Yes sir.” Daikon nodded, passing the gear over to him. “General Adama has gone to oversee the patients’ admittal.”

“Do we have any idea what we’re dealing with yet?”

“No, sir. CMO Helix has no clue.”

Kezu strode onto the warship, the Mirialan dressed in a protective suit as well, making her way briskly towards the medbay as Cody fell into step beside her.

“Medbay’s been sealed off since Helix fell ill.” Cody told her. “The other patients and medics were relocated to another, quarantined area to try and minimize exposure. Helix, Commander Ti, and General Kenobi are the only ones inside and so far, the only ones showing symptoms.”

Kezu nodded, frowning. “I’ll need three troopers to volunteer to bring them into the station, at which point they’ll be quarantined as well until we’re confident they didn’t contract the illness.”

“I’ll ask.” Cody nodded. “If nothing else, I’ll help.”

Reaching the medbay, Kezu stepped through the force field, waving for Cody to remain outside, going to inspect the three. “Kezu.” Obi-Wan managed a faint smile, coughing afterwards, sitting beside Lohsa’s bed. 

“Why are you up?” Kezu questioned, immediately pulling him to his feet and pushing him into the medical bed beside Lohsa’s.

“Someone had to look after them.”

Checking all three over, Kezu looked up when three troopers entered the medbay. “Commander Cody said you needed help transporting them.” Waxer said. 

“That’s right.” Kezu confirmed. “Into the medical station.” 

“The Commander’s clearing the hallways and then we’ll move them out.”

After ten minutes of waiting, with the Mirialan constantly checking the three sick ones over, Kezu looked up as Cody’s voice crackled over the intercom. “The hallways are clear, General Adama, you can move them.” 

“Let’s go.” Kezu instructed the three, deactivating the force field so they could leave and leading them out, the three troopers pushing the beds along ahead of them. She led the way into the station and then into the ward that had been set up specifically in preparation for this. “Put Padawan Ti and CMO Helix seven feet apart on this side, and Master Kenobi opposite.” She directed the troopers calmly. Once that was done, she nodded, gesturing for them to follow her. 

“Right, I’ll take you three to decontamination now. You’ll be quarantined separately for twenty-four hours, then you’ll be allowed to return to your warship.”

“Yes, General.” The troopers followed her out of the room, the group passing Kieran and Daikon on their way in. Daikon made his way over to Obi-Wan once they’d entered the ward, starting to check him over and pausing after a second. 

“General Blackburn?” 

“Yes?” Kieran looked up from examining Helix. “What is it?” 

“General Kenobi’s hands are slightly purple.” 

Kieran seemed to freeze for a second before hurrying over to him, cursing quietly once he’d gotten a better look. 

“General?” 

“Violet Fever.”

“...What’s that, General?” Daikon asked slowly, the name not ringing any bells.

“Nasty virus trademarked by those infected gaining a purple discoloration on their skin. It’s not a very common one in most of the galaxy, but one I’m quite familiar with nonetheless. The bad news is that there is currently no real cure.” Kieran exhaled slowly, letting Daikon digest that information. “However… I do have a way to buy us time.”

“What is, General?” Daikon asked. 

“I’m going to need you to trust me for a moment- and do not follow my lead.” Kieran warned him, reaching up towards the helmet of his hazmat suit. Daikon bit back his initial protests, watching his General remove it. Kieran reached beneath the collar of the hazmat suit, finding the latch of the amulet he always wore and undoing it, pulling it off. Setting that and the helmet aside, he pulled off one of his gloves, a splotchy, violet mist forming around his hand instantly. 

“General-?”

“My magic gives me the ability to manipulate this particular disease.” Kieran explained. “I can’t get rid of it entirely, it has to have somewhere else to go, and previous endeavors to simply absorb it into myself have… not gone well. But I can slow it down, prevent it from becoming lethal. Buy us time until either their immune systems fight it off on their own or we discover a cure, whichever comes first.”

Daikon nodded, frowning. “I’ll get as many medics on that as I can.”

“Any other legion that has been in contact with two-hundred and twelfth in the last forty-eight hours needs to go into quarantine as well. Violet Fever spreads extremely fast if not contained quickly.”

“If I remember right, that’s the hundred and eighty-seventh and five-hundred and first.” Daikon nodded. “I’ll call the Commanders for those legions.”

“Have them stay in the area nearby.” Kieran advised. “If they do end up with infections, we want to contain as many to here as possible.”

“Yes sir.” Daikon nodded, leaving to use one of the larger comms arrays. He put in the number for the 501st first, Rex’s hologram appearing a moment later. “This is Commander Daikon of the medical station. You need to put the five hundred and first under immediate quarantine, and stay in the nearby vicinity until further notice.”

Rex blinked, slightly taken aback. “Yes, sir. Is there something we should be looking out for?”

“Look out for fever, and anyone collapsing.” Daikon answered. “A better list of what to watch out for will be sent over to you shortly.”

“Understood.” 

Daikon cut the call, entering the number for the 187th next. Ponds responded equally promptly, recognizing him faster than Rex had. “Daikon. What’s going on?” 

“The hundred and eighty-seventh needs to be put in immediate quarantine, and needs to stay near the medical station. The symptoms to watch out for are fevers or collapses, most importantly. A full list will be sent over shortly.”

“Right. I’ll alert General Windu.” 

“Good.” Daikon nodded before ending that call as well, typing out a list of symptoms to send off to the two legions, along with directions on how to proceed if there were confirmed infections, sending it off before returning to the quarantine ward. 

Kieran was standing beside Lohsa’s bed when Daikon reentered the room, his hand resting gently on her forehead and his brow furrowed in concentration as the purple mist twisted around his hand. Daikon stayed quiet as to not interrupt his focus, watching closely as the mist then dissipated, a small amount of the color returning to Lohsa’s face, Kieran turning his attention to Helix next.

“Commander Ponds and Captain Rex have been informed, General.” Daikon told him quietly. 

“Good.” Kieran nodded, pausing for a moment to take a key out of the pocket of his robes, having discarded the hazmat suit at this point. “This opens the locked drawer of the filing cabinet in my office. In there you’ll find my notes detailing everything I’ve tried for curing this so far. Give those to Knight Adama. If I’m going to buy us time this way, I’m going to have to be here around the clock.”

“Yes sir.” Daikon nodded, taking the key and hurrying off again. Kieran sighed quietly, resting his hand on Helix’s forehead. 

“Let’s hope they can do in a couple weeks what I couldn’t do in twenty years.” He muttered quietly, before concentrating on his magic again as the mist reappeared.

Giving out orders sharply, Kezu glanced over her shoulder as Daikon walked up behind her. “General Blackburn’s instructed that we work on searching for a cure while he remains in the quarantine ward.” He explained. 

“Understood.” Kezu nodded. “I’ll get a group started on that.”

“He gave me the key to the drawer in his office, said he has research there that may be useful.” 

Kezu blinked slightly but nodded again. “I will go retrieve it, then.” She agreed, holding out her hand. Daikon handed her the key. 

“Do you have any directions for me, General?”

“Take a group of medics to scrub out the two-hundred and twelfth medbay.” Kezu decided. “So that it can be used again free of the infection.” 

“Copy that.” 

Three days later, Tinker barged into the command deck of the warship. “Commander Cody, Waxer’s collapsed!” 

Cody cursed quietly. “Don’t touch him, I’ll contact the station medics.”

“This is Basil.” One of the medics answered Cody’s call. 

“I think we may have another infection, Trooper Waxer just collapsed.” 

“How?” Basil frowned. “There’s been no contact with the infected since they were cleared.” 

“I don’t know.” Cody admitted. “There must be a carrier we haven’t identified.” 

“What’s changed on your warship, exactly?” 

Cody frowned, thinking. “There’s the Gutkurr meat we brought from Ryloth.”

“How long have you had it?” 

“Only since we left. We caught the things just as we were packing up camp.”

“It’s not the meat, then. More of you would be sick. Anything else?”

“We’re giving a lift to some of the refugees from Ryloth who lost their homes. Waxer basically adopted a couple kids.” 

“Twi’leks, I’m guessing?” Basil’s question was rhetorical, thinking. “They might be the carriers.” 

“Possibly.” Cody acknowledged. “But we’ve interacted with Twi’leks hundreds of times before, and we’ve never gotten sick.” 

“Can you provide any other reason?” 

“No.” Cody said finally, after considering that further. “Nothing else has changed.” 

“We’ll send some medics to retrieve your trooper, and talk to the Twi’leks as well.”

“Understood… I’ll have Tinker and Boil go into isolation, considering how close of contact they’ve been in.” 

“Good choice. Some medics will be there shortly.”

“We’ll be waiting.” 

Not like there’s much else I can do here. Cody thought to himself in slight frustration as Basil ended the call. 

Lavender knocked on the door to the room the Twi’leks were staying in, dressed in her hazmat gear. “Come in!” One of them called a moment later, Lavender pushing open the door and trotting inside. 

“I’m Lavender.” She explained quietly. “One of the station medics.”

“Lunae.” The purple Twi’lek nodded, straightening up from tucking in the little girl. “Is there anything we can do for you?”

“Do you know anything of an illness called Violet Fever?” Lavender asked carefully. Lunae nodded again after a moment of thought. 

“Yes, yes I believe so. Before the slavers were driven off of Ryloth, it was rampant among them. Haven’t seen many cases of it since, though, according to the medical literature.”

Lavender considered that, noting it down in her datapad before looking up again. “None of your people have had it?”

“Not to my knowledge. Only cases I found were hybrids- but I’m not a professional.” Lunae added hastily. “I’ve only studied textbooks so far.”

Lavender nodded thoughtfully, typing that in as well. “Can I ask you or that one-” She gestured to Jikan, who was sleeping. “To come into the medical station? There is a chance that Twi’leks may be carriers of Violet Fever, without being infected by it.”

Lunae nodded. “Let me wake Jikan up and talk to her.” 

“I’ll let you discuss it privately.” Lavender nodded, stepping out of the room and closing the door behind her, coming face to face with a female 212th trooper. 

“Hey, Lav.” Parrot smiled. “Thought that was you I saw.”

“Hello, Parrot.” Lavender answered, a small smile on her face behind the hazmat helmet.

“Oh! Did you accept the cybernetic, then?” Parrot asked her excitedly. Lavender shook her head.

“I’ve temporarily altered my voice box. I can’t hold it for long.”

“Got it.” Parrot nodded. “It’s a shame we’re only seeing each other under such intense circumstances. Missed you a lot.” 

“I missed you too.” Lavender answered, looking back into the room as her name was called. “You should move on, so you aren’t potentially infected.” She told Parrot. 

“Alright.” Parrot frowned. “Maybe we can hang out when this is over.” 

“That’ll be nice.” Lavender nodded. “I’ll see you later.”

Parrot offered her a small smile before hurrying away, resuming what she’d been doing previously as Lavender reentered the Twi’leks’ room. “You’ve decided who’ll be going?” She asked. Lunae nodded.

“I’ll go, Jikan’s going to stay here with the children.”

“I’ll take you there, then.” 

“Thank you.” 

Lavender led Lunae through the warship, calling to a taller medic waiting at the top of the ramp. “Nettle?”

“Yeah?” Nettle looked up. 

“Can you take Lunae here into the station?” Lavender tilted her head towards the Twi’lek. 

“Right away.” Nettle nodded. “Are you coming back in?”

Lavender shook her head, switching to signing as she let her alteration fade. ‘Going to get a rest.’  

“Alright, I’ll let the Commander know. Sleep well.” 

Lavender turned and trudged back into the warship. By this point, most of the warship had been cleared as infection free, other than the medical areas and now the areas the Twi’leks occupied, meaning that it was fine for her to go and find her sister. Leaving the hazmat gear in a storage room to return for later, she started towards the barracks, locating the room Parrot occupied after a couple minutes. The trooper looked up when the door opened, immediately brightening at seeing Lavender. “Hey!”

Lavender waved in response, trudging over to her sister with a yawn and instantly being tugged into a hug. She purred quietly, resting her head on Parrot’s shoulder as she closed her eyes, quickly dozing off in her sister’s arms. 

“Hm, there it is.” Kezu murmured, looking through her microscope at the sample taken of Lunae’s blood, with a sample of the Fever virus introduced into it. 

“Got anything?” Daikon asked, the Commander sounding just faintly tired. 

“Interestingly enough, there’s an antibody in her blood that seems to be… eliminating the harmful effects of the virus.” Kezu murmured, sounding slightly intrigued. Pulling out the petri dish holding the blood and virus samples, she replaced it with another just blood sample. “And the antibodies seem to be multiplying quite rapidly to deal with the threat.”

Daikon straightened slightly. “Can we use that?” 

“We could.” Kezu nodded. “However, it may still take time to find a mixture these antibodies work with. I shall work on making multiple samples, so we don’t lose any in our attempts.”

“I’ll let General Blackburn know, he’ll be relieved to hear we’re making progress.” 

Kezu nodded absently, the Mirialan focused on her next task as the Commander left the room. When Daikon entered the quarantine ward, Kieran was standing beside Lohsa, having just run the course of her illness back yet again, checking to make sure she was stable. He seemed much more weary, more strained than he had at the start of this. 

“General Blackburn, General Adama has found antibodies in the blood of the Twi’leks that could potentially be used in a cure.” Daikon reported. 

“She has?” Kieran looked up sharply.

Daikon nodded. “From what she said, the antibodies neutralize the virus and multiply quite rapidly to overcome it.”

Kieran exhaled, sitting down after a moment. “Thank you, Commander, this is very good news.”

“She’s working on making multiple samples now, so hopefully cures should be produced very soon.” 

“Good. Good…” Kieran nodded. “I can keep them stable until then.” 

“Are you okay, General?” Daikon asked. 

“Just tired, Daikon.” Kieran shook his head. “I haven’t used my magic to this extent for a long, long time.”

“Why not, General?”

“Not exactly the kind of thing that comes up in everyday life.” Kieran pointed out with a wry chuckle. “Only this one specific virus and I can’t even cure it.”

“It came in useful this time.” Daikon answered.

“For the first time in my life, yes.” This remark seemed half directed at himself, the Jedi’s focus on his patients rather than Daikon. 

“General?” Daikon asked, watching Kieran with slight concern. 

“Yes, Commander?” Kieran looked back at him. 

“Do you… want to get anything off your chest, General?” 

Kieran seemed to hesitate for a moment, something unreadable flashing through his eyes before responding with his usual lightly humorous tone. “I’ve had an… interesting life, Commander, you sure that’s a can of worms you want to open right now?”

“You always say keeping things bottled up isn’t healthy, sir.” Daikon persisted. 

“True.” Kieran sighed. “I suppose it’ll all come up sooner or later.”

Daikon pulled over a chair, sitting down and leaning back slightly, waiting expectantly. 

“When my magic first revealed itself, I honestly thought I’d been cursed.” Kieran started ruefully. “I’d been preparing to become a healer for five or six years at that point, and my teenage self failed to see the use in such an ability. We didn’t know nearly as much about the Fever then as we do now, and for all I knew at that moment, it could’ve been some previously extinct disease that now resided in my very veins. Master Koon managed to mostly talk the notion of being cursed out of my head, though… for a while, at least.”

“In my family, there’s a tradition where when you reach a certain age, you take an excursion out into the Unknown Regions and Wild Space to explore. Many of the allies of the Ilfirin Consortium have been found this way. Mine was delayed by my Jedi training, so it was decided that my little sister and I would go together.” Kieran continued, grimacing slightly. “Farie and I… we found the Kree. They seemed to know a lot about us, considering we’d never heard of them before, but we didn’t take that as the red flag it should’ve been, considering our older sister Arwen had found the Fae a couple years prior. They lured us in with false hospitality, and…” He inhaled, seeming to steel himself. “They killed all of our party, except me and Farie.” 

Daikon’s wings twitched, a faint growl rumbling deep in his throat. 

“I don’t… everything after that is rather hazy. I was too drugged up to remember most of it with any detail. But I remember the pain, and the needles. And the utter, deafening silence when they finally left me alone.” Kieran shuddered slightly. “A ‘biological weapon’, they called me. How they discovered my magic, I don’t know. But even with all of that, I got the lighter end of the stick than Farie did.”

“...What did they do to her, sir?” 

“She was pregnant when we escaped.” Kieran’s voice was very quiet, closing his eyes for a moment. “Revenge isn’t the Jedi way, but I’ll be damned if I didn’t want to go back and kill them all for doing that to her.”

Daikon’s wings bristled, though keeping his voice relatively calm. “Is she alright now, General?”

“Mostly. This was a long time ago, her daughters are adults now… but she used to want to be an explorer. She’s barely left Ebbirene since it happened.”

Daikon grimaced, feathers ruffling as that sank in. 

“I don’t think there’s ever been a time, before or since, I’ve seen our father so angry.”

“Is he generally very calm, then?”

“Very much so. He has a similar temperament to Master Unduli.” Kieran nodded. “He was Ebbirene’s King at the time, and in retaliation for what was done to us, he issued an edict that any Kree that set foot on our planet was to be killed on sight.”

Daiko’s eyes widened slightly, trying to imagine Luminara ever being that angry. Kieran shook his head slightly. 

“It’s a part of my life I try not to think about.” He admitted. “I don’t think I’ve talked to anyone but my wife about it in decades.”

“I’m sorry that happened to you, sir.” Daikon frowned. 

“It’s long past now.” Kieran dismissed. 

“...Have you ever encountered them again, sir?”

“Not personally, but others in my family. However, that’s a story for another time.”

Kezu held the tray of vials, holding them carefully as she hurried down the corridor towards the quarantine ward. Kieran looked up. “It’s ready?”

“It is.” Kezu nodded. 

“Thank goodness for that, then.” Kieran looked even more tired and drained than he had when Daikon talked to him just a couple days prior. Kezu frowned at his appearance, tilting her head. 

“Go take a rest, Master Blackburn.”

Kieran shook his head. “Once they start improving. I won’t be able to rest until I know for sure, no matter how tired I am.”

Kezu pursed her lips but reluctantly nodded, stopping beside Lohsa and helping the young Togruta sit up, tipping the cure into her mouth and helping the near unconscious girl swallow it. Kieran took another, doing the same for Helix, and then for Waxer while Kezu helped Obi-Wan. After a couple hours, all four started to show signs of stabilizing, at which point Kezu turned to Kieran again. 

“It will take a few days to fully take effect, so please try to get some sleep, Master Blackburn.”

“Alright.” Kieran agreed with a reluctant sigh. “Please wake me if anything happens.”

“I will. Have a good sleep, Master Blackburn.” 

“Thank you, Kezu.” Kieran nodded, retrieving his amulet off the table as he left the ward. 

Chapter Text

“The patients are improving steadily, are starting to grow antsy to be discharged- Helix especially.” Daikon reported. “I imagine you’ll want to keep them a couple days longer though.” 

“Yes, definitely.” Kieran agreed. “Brand new cure, it’s proved effective thus far but we want to make sure there’s no side effects. Still no illness from either of the other quarantined legions?”

“No, General.” Daikon shook his head, just as Kezu entered the room. 

“You can release them, then, if they were going to get it then they would’ve by now.” Kieran nodded before looking to the other Jedi. “Kezu, what brings you in?”

Kezu sighed slightly after a minute. “I have gotten word from the Senate that I’m being transferred.”

“Transferred?” Kieran repeated, frowning. “Where to?” 

“To be in charge of troopers on Ryloth.” 

“..Are you sure?” Kieran asked slowly, incredulous. “There’s not been a mistake?” 

“There hasn’t, I checked.” Kezu shook her head. 

“Oh for- as if we didn’t have enough going on already.” Kieran pinched the bridge of his nose, taking a deep breath. “How long do we have until you have to leave?” 

“I can delay it for a few days.” Kezu answered. “You should call Master Elmsong, and ask her to help you here.” 

Kieran nodded. “I will.” He sighed. 

“In the meantime, why aren’t you resting?” Kezu frowned at him. 

“I slept for twelve hours straight.” Kieran shook his head. “I’m fine.” 

“You are not fine. Do not make me call Healer Vidur up here.” 

“Kezu, I’m alright. Really. I’m going to finish up these charts and then I will go to rest again.”

Kezu pursed her lips, watching him, just as a massive, green skinned Togruta strode into the office, immediately picking his former Master up. Which was no small feat, considering Kieran was by no means a short man. 

“What the hell- when did you get here?!” Kieran protested. 

“Healer Adama called me a couple days ago.”

Kieran groaned. “Adetta, put me down.” 

“You need to rest, Master.” The Togruta answered, starting to carry Kieran out of the office. 

“Adetta-”

“No, Master. You are resting.” Adetta glanced over his shoulder at Daikon. “Please call Master Nikolayovna, Commander.” 

“Yes sir.” Daikon nodded. 

“No, Adetta, don’t you bring Vaeril into this.” Kieran argued, internally cursing the day his former Padawan grew taller than him. 

“Please tell her that Master Blackburn is not caring for himself as he should.” Adetta added. 

“Yes sir.” Daikon repeated before ducking back into the office. 

A day later, a blonde woman made her way briskly off the ship now landed in the station docking bay, followed closely by seven troopers and a young cadet. “General Nikolayovna.” Daikon greeted with a nod, waiting for her. “Commander Sleepy.” He added, addressing the Alpha following close behind her. 

“Where is Master Blackburn?” Vaeril asked politely.

“In his room, resting.” Daikon answered. “Lavender’s keeping an eye on him.” 

Vaeril’s lips twitched slightly, nodding. “You eight behave.” She told her troopers.

“We will, General.” Sleepy nodded.

Vaeril made her way deeper into the medical station, intending on chewing out her stupidly reckless husband. The door was partially open when she reached his room in the barracks, and Kieran was in bed like Daikon had said he would be, an absolutely tiny Kashgar sitting on a cushion nearby. She knocked politely on the doorframe, getting his attention. 

“Come in, Vaeril.” Kieran told her, immediately sensing her there without needing to look. 

“I’m not disturbing anything, am I?” 

“No.” Kieran shook his head, smiling faintly. “Always happy to see you, love, but I get the distinct impression you’re here to scold me.” 

Lavender pushed herself up off the cushion, deciding to leave them to it as Vaeril properly entered the room. 

“Why aren’t you being more careful with yourself?” Vaeril questioned, sitting down. 

“I’ve been careful.” Kieran protested. “Desk work isn’t exactly pushing my physical limits. And I’ve slept plenty.”

Vaeril arched an eyebrow, folding her arms. Kieran sighed, leaning his head back against the wall. “I couldn’t just leave everything on Daikon. Especially not now that the Celestials-damned Senate has transferred Kezu. ‘Course, that’s not an issue now that Adetta’s here, but…”

“You need a holiday.” Vaeril decided suddenly. “We are going to Ebbirene.” 

Kieran looked like he was on the verge of trying to argue with her before stopping and reconsidering, nodding after a second in compliance. Vaeril started packing Kieran’s things, deliberately leaving out any work related items. 

“Oh, you meant now.” Kieran realized, starting to get up to help. 

“No, you stay there.” Vaeril immediately ordered, stopping him mid-movement. 

“Alright, alright.”

Once deeming enough of his items packed, Vaeril picked up the bags. “Let’s go, * nin mel.”

Kieran stayed put for a second, making sure she actually wanted him to get up this time, before standing slowly. “Do Adetta and Daikon know we’re leaving or should we let them know first?” 

“We can call them once we’ve left.” Vaeril answered, taking his hand. 

“Alright.” Kieran agreed, following her out of the room. Vaeril shifted one of the bags she was holding, pulling out her comm. 

“Commander, please gather the others to the ship if they’re not there already.”

“Aye, General.” 

When they reached the ship, Vaeril gestured to the waiting clones. “You already know my troopers.” She told her husband. Kieran nodded to them, smiling slightly. 

“Good to see you all.”

“This one-” Vaeril gestured to the young cadet Sleepy was holding. “Is Snow.”

“Hello, Snow.” Kieran offered the little girl a smile before addressing Sleepy. “Better keep an eye on her around here, Basil and the others might try to run off with her.” He chuckled. 

“We’ll be going now, so that won’t be an issue.” Vaeril interjected. “Come along, all of you.”

Vaeril stood up as the ship landed. “Me and Kieran just need to retrieve food from the market.” She explained to the troopers. “While we do that, why don’t you look around? Here are some credits if you want to buy anything.” She handed a good sized pouch to Sleepy. 

“Oh- thank you, General.” Sleepy nodded. Vaeril offered him a small smile before taking Kieran’s hand, leading her husband off the ship.”

“When was the last time we were back here?” Kieran mused, squeezing her hand slightly as they walked into the bustling marketplace. 

“It’s been quite a while.” Vaeril smiled. 

“Makes you realize how fast time’s gone by.” 

Vaeril nodded, squeezing his hand again as she picked up one of the free crates that could be used to carry the items you bought. “How’d you end up with Snow, anyway?” Kieran asked as they started making their way through. “Still a cadet, isn’t she?”

Vaeril’s lips twitched slightly. “My squadron discovered the story of Snow White. They then decided they wanted a little sister to fill in the Snow role.”

Kieran laughed. “That’s sweet.” 

“So they stole one off Kamino, last time we were there.” 

Kieran snorted after a second, after that sank in. “I’m sure Colt was thrilled about that.”

“I don’t quite know if the Commander knows yet.”

“I see.” Kieran chuckled. 

“I do have to remind them not to spoil her.” Vaeril mused. “Thankfully, Sneezy is on top of that. After what happened last time, he personally approves anything that’s bought for her.”

“What happened last time?” Kieran raised an eyebrow. 

“All apart from Sneezy bought Snow at least three items each.” 

Kieran hummed. “Yeah, that’s a lot.”

“I suggested they put a reward system in place so she can earn toys, then gave what Snow didn’t pick to the creche.” Vaeril shook her head. 

“I’m sure the Younglings enjoyed that.” Kieran smiled slightly. “They’ll figure it out, it can be hard to know where to draw the line. Least they’ve got you to help them with that.” 

After they’d gotten enough food and necessities, Vaeril started carrying the crate back to the ship. Kieran followed her, the two of them making it halfway back to the ship before he suddenly slowed down as exhaustion hit him like a brick. 

“See why you need to rest, now?” Vaeril asked, tone patient as she turned to look at him. Kieran sighed after a second, nodding.

“Yes.” 

“Come on, let’s head back to the ship.” Vaeril kissed his cheek. “We’ll be at the cottage soon enough.”

Kieran smiled slightly, nodding again before following her. The clones were already back and waiting for them when they reached the ship, Vaeril setting down the crate. “Did you buy anything you liked the look of?” She asked them. 

“Couple things.” Sleepy nodded. “I think we’d definitely like to come back and look around again another time.”

“I’ll bring you lot back next week, then.” Vaeril nodded.

“Thank you, General.”

Once halfway up the mountain, Vaeril looked at Doc when the medic spoke, her now sleeping husband resting his head on her shoulder. 

“Forgive me, General, if I missed something- but what exactly is going on?” The medic asked quietly. 

“My husband overused his magic.” Vaeril answered. “Which, admittedly, I never thought I’d say- but he has strained his magical core, and now the effects of it are finally hitting him.”

“..That’s something that can happen?” Doc frowned. 

“It can.” Vaeril nodded. “And it can be extremely dangerous as well.”

“The Kaminoans never told us that was a possibility.”

Vaeril hummed, thinking. “Nearly every bookshop has material on it, there’s one in the market you can go to when we come back on Saturday.”

Doc nodded. “That’ll be good information to distribute to the other medics.”

Once the ship landed, Vaeril shook Kieran awake, looking at the troopers. “Can one of you get the crate?” She requested. 

“I’ve got it.” Dopey volunteered, going to pick it up. Vaeril shook Kieran again gently, helping her husband to his feet once he was semi-awake and helping him down the ramp, pulling the key to the cottage out of her pocket as the crisp mountain air greeted them. A thin layer of snow covered the ground surrounding the large cottage, and more flakes floated down around them as they walked up the path towards it. Unlocking the door, Vaeril pushed it open, leading Kieran inside and starting towards their bedroom. 

“Choose whichever of the other three bedrooms you like.” She called over her shoulder. 

“Thank you, General.” Sleepy nodded. 

After putting her husband back to bed, Vaeril strode back to where the other clones were. “There’s also a bookshop in the village nearby, Doc, if you want to look for the books there.” She told him. Doc nodded. 

“I’ll do that later, then.”

Vaeril started to put the food away, humming a bit, using the Force to open the windows to air out the cottage. “This is a nice spot.” Bashful remarked quietly, looking out at the snow. 

“It is.” Vaeril nodded with a smile. “It’s nice and peaceful, up here. The local villagers are nice as well.”

“It’ll be fun to explore.” Sleepy nodded. “But let’s go get settled in for now, men, there'll be time for that later.”

“Did that sleep help?” Vaeril asked, scooping up a forkful of her fruit pie, sat next to her husband by the fire. Kieran nodded, leaning back in his chair. 

“It did, I feel better.”

“Good.” Vaeril smiled, squeezing his hand. 

“How’s your squadron settling?” 

Vaeril hummed, swallowing another bite of her pie before answering. “They want to go explore the village tomorrow. Doc is especially interested in learning more of magical exhaustion.” 

Kieran nodded. “It’s an intriguing subject, though I must ask if he knew what it was already? There have been some rather concerning gaps I’ve noticed in our medics’ training.”

“No, he didn’t.” Vaeril shook her head. “To no one’s surprise, the Kaminoans didn’t care to teach them about that.”

“Great.” Kieran sighed. “Something else to add to the roster. Healer Elmsong’s already spoken to us about training them on handling emotional shock. Kaminoans didn’t bother to teach them that either.” 

Vaeril frowned a bit, finishing off her slice of pie. “It makes you wonder how else, exactly, they were raised in that facility.”

“I certainly have some questions.” Kieran agreed.

“Well, hopefully Master Ti and your former Padawan should find something out.” Vaeril concluded. “We can only wait and see.”

Chapter Text

“Masters.” Vaeril tilted her head to them politely as the holograms appeared, currently alone in her and Kieran’s room at the cottage. 

“Master Nikolayovna.” Windu nodded to her. “There’s an assignment we’d like you to take on.”

“What’s the assignment?” Vaeril asked. 

“We have lost all contact with our outpost on Orto Plutonia.” Windu explained. “We need you and your squadron to go out and investigate what happened.”

“Understood.” Vaeril nodded. “We’ll head there immediately.”

“Master Trite’s Padawan will be joining you.” Windu added. “She is training for search and rescue, and this will be a good field opportunity for her.” 

“Where am I picking her up?”

“She and one of Master Trite’s squadrons will meet you in orbit.”

“Understood. We’ll move out shortly.” Vaeril nodded. 

“How is Kieran faring?” Plo asked her. 

“He’s improving.” Vaeril nodded. “I will pay one of the villagers to come check in every so often while we’re gone, just in case.”

“Good.” Plo seemed to smile. “I’m glad to hear it.”

Vaeril frowned, eyebrows knitting together as she looked out the window of the shuttle. “Grumpy, can you contact that third ship?” She asked, looking at the clone sitting in the pilot’s seat. “I can’t think of who might be in there.”

“Aye, General.” Grumpy nodded, turning his attention to that. A moment after contact was made, the hologram of a stern faced Pantoran woman appeared.

“This is Jedi Master Vaeril Nikolayovna.” Vaeril stated calmly. “May I ask why you are following us to this outpost?”

“This planet is under Pantora’s jurisdiction. By rule of our treaty with the Republic, we have the right to a representative present during any official occupation. I, Senator Kozzemi Chuchi, am that representative.”

“Of course.” Vaeril agreed after a minute. 

“We will be joining your party on the planet.” 

“We will see you down there, then.” 

The woman nodded curtly before cutting the transmission. Grumpy snorted. “Great, now we’ve got a politician tailing us around.”

“You lot, please try to avoid talking to her.” Vaeril sighed. “Senator Chuchi is very… trying.”

“Understood, General.” Sleepy nodded.

“Padawan Lebedev.” Vaeril offered a small smile to Freya once the ships had landed on the snowy planet, the Padawan coming down the ramp. 

“Master Nikolayovna!” Freya greeted with a smile, the blonde haired Ilfirin followed by a group of snowtroopers.

“As it turns out, Padawan-” Vaeril lowered her voice. “Senator Chuchi has seen fit to accompany us, so please leave dealing with her to me.”

Freya nodded. “Alright, Master.” 

Vaeril straightened up, turning to face Kozzemi as she approached, followed by two more Pantoran women tailing after her. “Senator Chuchi, it’s a pleasure to have you with us.”

“I wish I could say the same.” The Senator’s tone was disdainful. “Do hurry up and finish your little investigation.”

Vaeril’s expression tightened slightly, starting to turn away before her hand abruptly shot out, gripping the Senator’s wrist painfully tight to stop her from hitting the Padawan. “Let go of me!” Kozzemi growled. Vaeril’s grip only tightened, eyes cold as she yanked Kozzemi closer to herself. 

“You forget yourself, Senator. Are you forgetting exactly what positions Padawan Lebedev and myself hold, outside of being Jedi?”

“Then tell your Padawan that it is rude to make faces at someone when they are speaking.” 

Freya’s expression appeared perfectly composed, though a faint spark of mischief danced through her blue eyes. 

“Should you dare strike Padawan Lebedev, I will ensure that both Elikala and Ebbirene break off their alliances with Pantora.” Vaeril hissed quietly. “And I’ll make sure your royal family knows exactly who's fault it is.”

Kozzemi scowled, yanking her hand free of Vaeril’s grasp. “Fine. Get on with your investigation.” Sweeping past the Senator, Vaeril deliberately sent her stumbling by shouldering her out of the way, gesturing for Freya to follow her. 

“Where do we start, Master?” Freya asked, now ignoring the Senator entirely. 

“First, let’s check the outpost itself.” Vaeril decided. Freya nodded. 

“I’ll have the men ready snowspeeders, that’ll be the most efficient way to get there.” 

Once they’d reached the outpost, Vaeril dismounted her speeder, briskly making her way towards it and pulling open the large doors when she reached it. Freya followed her inside, Commanders Sleepy and Rudolph close behind her and both carrying their blasters. As light filled the room, a large pile of blankets could be seen in front of the broken heater, and a figure sitting by the pile, bundled up in as many layers of clothes as possible. 

“Knight Fichur?” Freya called after a second, cautiously. The figure looked up after a moment of seemingly processing what she’d heard, the Nautolan’s black eyes landing on them. Freya hurried over, kneeling by her. “Are you hurt?”

“What?” The Nautolan mumbled sleepily, just as the Pantoran Senator stormed over with a thunderous expression. 

“How could you let the outpost get overrun like this?!” Kozzemi demanded. “It was your job to protect-” 

“Senator!” Freya interrupted. “Be quiet!”

The Nautolan blinked up at the Pantoran, none of her words seeming to register at all, as she was lifted gently to her feet by two of the Kashgar. “Senator, Padawan Lebedev will handle this.” Vaeril told Kozzemi sharply. “Continue to hinder us, and I will contact your royals to have you recalled!” 

“I apologize.” Kozzemi bit out grudgingly. 

“Rudolph!” Freya called. “Get some of the men on fixing the heater. Dasher, I want to go back to the ships and bring back blankets, as many as you can find. We’ve gotta get her warm. Vyxen, Comet-” She pointed to the two who had helped Rhilet up. “Sit with her. Let her hide under your wings or something, just keep her warm until Dasher gets back.”

“Is there anything we can do, Padawan Lebedev?” One of Kozzemi’s assistants, a woman with magenta hair, asked.

“If you happen to have a spare cloak or two, that’ll help, otherwise I don’t think so.” Freya shook her head. “Most of what needs to be done is down to the mechanics.”

The assistant appeared to think about that, then pulled her cloak off, wrapping it around the Nautolan. “Thank you.” Freya nodded. “I don’t think I got your names.” She tilted her head slightly, including the other, younger assistant in that statement. 

“I’m Ierra Varo, and that is my sister, Riyo Chuchi.” The woman answered, wrapping her arm around the younger Pantoran. 

“Are you two related to the Senator?” Freya asked, keeping one eye on the repair effort as she talked to them. 

“No.” Ierra shook her head. “She’s our stepmother. Married my father first after my mother died suddenly, then my father died and she married Riyo’s after her mother died suddenly.” She arched an eyebrow slightly, her implication clear. Freya hummed, nodding. 

“I see.”

“How long have you been a Padawan?” Ierra wondered. 

“Since I was six.” Freya answered. “Master’s said that if all goes well, I’ll be ready to be Knighted in a few years, provided the war doesn’t interfere.”

Ierra nodded in understanding as Dasher returned, absolutely laden with blankets. “Pile them all on her, Dasher.” Freya instructed with a nod. “Thank you.”

“Yes sir.” Dasher agreed, going over to the Nautolan. 

“How’s the heater coming?” Freya called to the others, turning to face them. 

“It’s halfway fixed, Commander.” Rudolph answered, supervising the others. 

“Good.” Freya nodded, going to check on the Nautolan Jedi, whose head now rested on Vyxen’s shoulder, wrapped up in the blankets and covered by the two clones’ wings. “She’s warming up.” Freya murmured after checking Rhilet’s hand, tucking it back under the blankets. “She’s halfway into hibernation, she’ll wake up once we have the heater on.”

“Yes sir.” Comet nodded, adjusting his wing over the Knight, glancing at the other pile of blankets. “What’s under there, Commander?” He asked after a second. Freya looked over, frowning slightly. 

“Good question.” She answered, kneeling down to lift up the edge of the blankets. “Oh- Master Nikolayovna!”

“Yes, Padawan Lebedev?” Vaeril turned to look at her. 

“Knight Etalra is here too. I think she’s fully in hibernation.”

Vaeril pursed her lips. “Leave her there. She should wake up once the heater is back as well.”

Freya nodded, tucking the blankets back over the Nautolan as she stood up. “Does beg the question… where are their clones?” She frowned.

“A good question, and unfortunately one only the Fichur twins can answer.”

“I can take my men and search the rest of the outpost in the meantime, General.” Sleepy offered. 

“Good idea, Commander.” Vaeril nodded, just as a faint mumble sounded from Rhilet. 

“Don’t harm them…”

Freya looked back at her, frowning slightly. “Who?” She prompted gently. 

“Talz… don’t harm them…” Rhilet still sounded half asleep, eyes barely open. 

“Alright, just rest.” Freya soothed. “We’ll have the heat back soon.” 

“I can go with the troopers.” Ierra offered. “To see what these Talz things are.” 

“You’ll probably want your cloak back, it only gets colder further in.” Freya advised. Ierra nodded, taking it from Comet with a murmured thanks and securing it around herself again. “You could go too, Master, I can supervise the repairs and the Fichur twins’ care.” 

Vaeril nodded after a second, offering a small smile to Freya. “Keep up the good work, Padawan.” 

Freya’s eyes brightened slightly, giving a determined nod. “I will, Master.”

“Let’s look deeper inside the outpost first.” Vaeril instructed. 

“Aye, General.” Sleepy nodded. “Come on, men.”

Vaeril led the group deeper inside, mentally reaching out and searching as they looked for any sign of the clones. “Looks pretty deserted.” Happy muttered, switching on his flashlight.

“It does.” Bashful frowned, as the rest followed suit. 

“Hold up, is that a droid part?” Happy stopped abruptly. 

“What?” Bashful blinked, swinging his flashlight to see what Happy had seen as he bent down, picking up what appeared to be the arm of a B1 battle droid. Vaeril hummed in acknowledgement, using her lightsaber as a light source as she strode further inside. 

When they entered the next room, they were greeted by a row of droid heads on pikes, stuck in between the floor tiles. Broken feathers and blood splatters littered the room, along with more broken droid pieces. “Dear Ancestors.” Vaeril murmured, striding towards the opened back doors, peering out into the snow to try and see anything. 

“There’s gotta be a third party involved.” Sleepy frowned. “We don’t do… that.” He gestured towards the row of heads. 

“Whoever it was, they came and left through here.” Vaeril declared, picking up a broken feather out of the snow. 

“And took our brothers with them, I’d guess.” Grumpy muttered. “They’re certainly not here.”

“Let’s get the speeders, and see where we can track them to.” Vaeril decided. 

“Could these things be the ‘Talz’ that General Fichur mentioned?” Happy wondered. “The ones she doesn’t want hurt.”

“Possibly.” Sleepy nodded. “I’m not inclined to think our brothers were permanently killed, there’s nothing to indicate that.”

“We don’t go in with aggression.” Vaeril decided. “We will try for a peaceful approach.”

“Copy that, General.”

Vaeril led the way back through the building, so they could retrieve the speeders, immediately being waylaid by Kozzemi. “Where are you going?” The Senator demanded coldly. 

“We are going to follow the trail of the missing troopers.” Vaeril answered calmly.

“Then I will be going with you. I wish to know what hostile party believes it can take up residence on a Pantoran world.”

“There is no reason to think this third party is hostile.” Vaeril responded evenly. “And I have to decline. We cannot have you hindering us by being unnecessarily aggressive.”

“I have very right to-”

“You do not.” Vaeril’s tone sharpened. “This is a mission for the Republic. We were not warned in advance of your involvement, and I am doubting that you were even appointed by the Pantoran King and Queen. You will stay here, Senator.”

“Fine.” Kozzemi bit out, still scowling. Vaeril turned away, making her way over to one of the speeders and climbing on. 

“Let’s move out.”

“Right behind you, General.” Sleepy nodded. 

Pressing down on the peddle, Vaeril’s speeder shot off, doing a u-turn and racing across the snowy landscape, following the evidence of where the third party had gone as the others fell into formation behind her.

“Over there!” Doc called after they’d traveled a little ways from the outpost, spotting movement out of the corner of his eye. Vaeril turned her head, slowing down and just making out the blur of something moving across the snow. She pulled her speeder to a stop entirely, hopping off of it as the others stopped behind her. 

“Hello?” She called. Sleepy followed her, wings twitching as he squinted at the area where they’d seen the movement. “We come in peace.” Vaeril called again, looking around. 

A moment of silence passed, before heavy but muffled footsteps were heard coming towards them and a tall, white furred creature with four eyes came into view, loosely carrying a large spear. “Are you the Talz?” Vaeril asked, raising her hands to show she wasn’t holding a weapon. 

The creature nodded after a moment, saying something in a language that none of them could understand, though clearly understanding them. 

“Do you know what happened to any men that look like this?” Vaeril gestured to her troopers. The Talz nodded vigorously after a moment, making gestures as if telling them to follow it. Vaeril grasped her speeder handles, pulling it along behind her as she started to follow it. The Talz led them along, the group soon reaching what appeared to be their camp. Before the Jedi and clones could proceed into it, however, a shrill voice split the silence behind them. 

“Filthy savages!” Kozzemi snarled, the Pantoran Senator storming towards them, having evidently followed them from the outpost. “How dare-” 

“Mother!” A sharp voice interrupted her, Ierra leaping off her speeder as it stopped, briefly making a face at what word had escaped her as she chased after Kozzemi, having decided to trail her to stop her from making things worse. “That is enough!”

Kozzemi turned to glare at her. “You do not command me, Ierra.” 

Ierra squared her shoulders, pulling herself up taller. “You are not making this into a war for Pantora.”

“They are trespassers, this is Pantora’s domain.”

“You were not given authorization to do this. Riyo is currently contacting the royals to inform them of your actions.”

“You have no right to go behind my back in such a way. After everything I’ve done for you-” Kozzemi’s angry rant was cut short by a loud growl as one of the Talz planted itself firmly in front of Ierra. Kozzemi sputtered, not expecting that, stumbling back a couple steps as Ierra stared at the Talz’s back in surprise. 

Another one grasped Ierra’s wrist gently, tugging her back further away from the apparently hostile woman before joining the one who had jumped in front of her, the Talz lining up to block Kozzemi from getting any closer to their camp. Before the situation could get any more tense, two more speeders were heard approaching, skidding to a stop ten feet away and revealing Riyo and Rhilet. Riyo strode towards them, the young woman looking rather terrified but resolved, taking a deep breath. 

“Mother, the King and Queen have ordered that you are to return to Pantora immediately, and to cease any efforts to hinder the Jedi in their work.”

“Grumpy, escort the Senator back.” Vaeril murmured as Rhilet climbed off her speeder, immediately hurrying towards the Talz.

Grumpy sighed but nodded. “Aye, General.” He agreed grudgingly. The Talz greeted Rhilet enthusiastically, clearly recognizing her, the Nautolan soon disappearing into the fluffy embrace of one of the largest ones. Rhilet hugged him back, managing a small smile, still sluggish from coming out of hibernation. 

“It’s good to see you too, Thi-Sen.” The Talz rumbled something to her in his language, clearly happy to see her, before looking back at Vaeril. Rhilet stepped a bit away from the Talz, gesturing to him. “This is Thi-Sen, the current Chieftain.” She explained. 

“You’re able to understand them?” Vaeril asked, to which Rhilet nodded. 

“Me, Alra, and our troopers have known them for nearly all the time we’ve been here.”

“Would you be able to translate for me, then?” Riyo requested quietly. 

“I can.” Rhilet nodded in confirmation. 

“Tell them that our King and Queen have decreed that they are to be left in peace, to continue as they have been.”

Rhilet cleared her throat as she turned to Thi-Sen, rough, rumbling growls escaping her as she translated what Riyo had said. Thi-Sen nodded in understanding once she had finished, looking at Riyo as he rumbled a response. “Thi-Sen says that his people accept that, and that they thank your King and Queen.” Rhilet translated. Riyo nodded, bowing politely to the Chieftain before backing away, looking relieved. 

Rhilet glanced up at Thi-Sen as he rumbled something more, before speaking. “Thi-Sen would like to invite you to have some food in the camp.”

“Does he know where the missing troopers are?” Sleepy asked. 

Switching to that language again, Rhilet asked Thi-Sen. The Chieftain rumbled, nodding and gesturing for the Jedi and troopers to follow him as he let go of Rhilet, leading them into the camp. He led them to one of the larger huts, pulling back the fur over the door to show the missing clones laying on the ground, wings spread out over each other and blankets covering them all. Some had signs of still healing wounds, but all seemed to be alive- though not showing any signs of waking. 

“They’re in hibernation.” Rhilet realized. “They need to be properly warmed up.”

“We can achieve that easily back on the ship.” Doc nodded. 

Vaeril pressed her comm, waiting for it to connect before speaking. “Grumpy, can you bring the ship back to the Talz camp? We need to warm the missing troopers up.”

“Yes, General. Senator Chuchi’s ship is gone- we’ll have to give the two assistants a lift back.” 

“That’s no trouble.” Vaeril nodded. 

“I’ll be there shortly.” 

Vaeril strode towards the fire in the middle of the camp, taking a seat on a log, her clones sitting on either side of her. “Glad they’re all okay.” Sneezy remarked. 

“Most definitely.” Vaeril nodded, thoughtful, watching Rhilet and the Talz Chieftain. 

“Something wrong, General?” Sleepy asked her after a moment. 

“Nothing is wrong.” Vaeril answered. “However, I do wonder if I’m seeing something that isn’t there.” She continued to watch the two. Sleepy tilted his head slightly, not quite understanding what she was getting at, but decided to leave it alone since there was nothing to worry about.  

Vaeril looked up at the sound of a ship approaching. “That would be Grumpy.” She noted. 

“Let’s go get the troopers ready to move.” Sleepy nodded, pushing himself up. “C’mon, boys.”

Rhilet squeezed Thi-Sen’s arm, turning to look up at him as the hibernating troopers were carried into the ship. “We’ll be back soon.” She told him. The Talz Chieftain rumbled something in response, hugging her again before letting her go. Rhilet strode up the ramp of the ship, taking a seat and leaning back into it once inside. 

“It shouldn’t take long for them to wake up once they’re warm.” Doc told the others as they settled the hibernating troopers down. “We’d better go and collect General Etalra as well.”

“Aren’t we heading back to the outpost for a debriefing?” Rhilet asked after a second.

“Heater’s not quite operational yet, and there’s still damage to the entrances that’ll let the cold in. Better to keep all of you on the ship until we can get the outpost properly repaired and heated again.”

Rhilet nodded, accepting that after a moment of consideration. “Everyone’s onboard.” Sleepy reported after a final headcount. “Take us back, Grumpy.”

“Yes sir.” Grumpy nodded, the ship lifting up and flying back towards the outpost. 

A few hours later, the hibernating clones were starting to wake up, along with Etalra, and repairs on the outpost were proceeding steadily. “Are you ready to give your report?” Vaeril asked Rhilet, once the sisters had gotten a chance to reunite and talk.

“We are.” Rhilet nodded, holding her sister’s hand. 

“What exactly are these Talz?”

“They’re the natives that live here.” Etalra answered. “Rather similar to the Kashgar in their behaviors and customs, from what we’ve seen so far.”

Vaeril nodded thoughtfully. “And they aren’t aggressive?”

“Not unless you shoot first. We’ve been working on befriending them pretty much since we were stationed here. They came in to defend us when the droids attacked.”

“Would you and your squad like a transfer?” Vaeril asked, once she’d noted that down. 

“We’ll have to ask the men- but for our part, no.” Etalra shook her head after sharing a look with her sister. “We’d like to stay here.”

“I’ll tell the Council that, then.” Vaeril agreed.

“We’ll go ask the squad. They’re all awake now.” Etalra decided. The two sisters left Vaeril to finalize her report, going over to where their clones were gathered, some of them still looking rather sleepy. 

“Would any of you like a transfer?” Rhilet asked. Commander Salvo immediately shook his head. 

“Leave the Talz? Absolutely not.”

“We all wish to stay here.” The female trooper, Storm, added on as she looked at Etalra. The Knight nodded, tendrils twitching slightly. 

“Thought so, just needed to confirm. We’ll let Master Nikolayovna know.”

“Have they decided?” Vaeril asked when the sisters approached her again. 

“All want to stay.” Etalra confirmed. “We want to continue our efforts to learn about and befriend the Talz.”

“I’ll inform the Council of that as well, then.”

“How long do you think it’ll take to finish the repairs on the outpost?”

“You’ll have to ask Padawan Lebedev and her troopers about that.”

Etalra nodded. “Do you wanna check up on that, Rhilet? I can finish up anything official here.”

“Sounds good.” Rhilet agreed, making her way off the ship to check on the Padawan’s progress. 

“Is everyone on the ship?” Vaeril asked, looking around with a hum. 

“Yes, General.” Sleepy confirmed. “Including the Senator’s assistants.” 

“We’re ready to go, Grumpy.” Vaeril called to him. 

“Don’t need to tell me twice.” Grumpy muttered as the ship lifted off, more than done with the snow and ice. Freya walked up to Vaeril, having chosen to fly back to Pantora with them and rejoin her squad there. 

“How did I do, Master?”

“You did excellently, Padawan.” Vaeril smiled. “You’ve displayed your teachings well.” 

Freya’s eyes lit up, the girl beaming. “Thank you!”

Chapter Text

“We’re back, nin mel.” Vaeril called as she and her troopers reentered the cottage. 

“Welcome back.” Kieran answered as he looked up from what he was doing, sitting in the rocking chair by the fireplace while Snow played with her toys on the floor. “How did it go?”

“Well, no one died.” Vaeril’s lips twitched slightly. “The Fichur sisters and their troopers were all alive. The Knights themselves were both respectively in hibernation and halfway there. Droids knocked out the power of the industrial heater they used.”

Kieran grimaced sympathetically. “Well, glad no one was too badly hurt.”

“It also turns out a group of Wookiee-like creatures live on the moon, which the clones and Knights managed to befriend.” Vaeril continued as Snow all but tackled Sleepy in a hug. The Commander chuckled, returning the hug. 

“Sounds interesting.” Kieran nodded. 

“Go get settled back in, men.” Sleepy directed the others, sitting down with Snow as she snuggled into him happily. 

“Should we go down to that village the General mentioned?” Happy wondered as the group went to change into more casual clothes. 

“Sounds fun.” Sneezy agreed. “Let’s meet at the door in ten minutes.”

“Works for me.”

“Dinner’s ready, you lot!” Vaeril called, hearing the door of the cottage open hours later. “Leave your shoes by the door, please!”

“Okay, General!” Doc called back. 

“Here you go.” Vaeril told them when they walked into the dining room a couple minutes later. “It’s all the same, so just pick a seat.”

“Thank you.” Sleepy nodded, setting Snow down in one of the seats, having ended up carrying her back after she got tired. 

“Afterwards, there's a choice of fruit pies for dessert, and cream to go on them.” Vaeril told them, taking a seat beside her husband. 

“Sounds great.” Bashful agreed quietly, smiling. After dinner had been eaten, Vaeril gathered the plates and cutlery up, carrying it into the kitchen and returning with a couple boxes of pie, cream, and clean plates; along with another plate containing long skewers of fruit. Setting everything down, Vaeril picked up that plate, holding it out to Sleepy. 

“Thank you.” Sleepy smiled slightly, taking it as the others all but descended on the pies. 

“You don’t have to eat it all, but please try a few pieces?” Vaeril requested. 

Sleepy nodded. “I will.”

Once everyone else had taken their pick of the pies, Vaeril chose a slice of apple pie for herself, pouring some cream over it before starting to eat. “We should go to the village again tomorrow.” Happy suggested. “I think I saw the bookshop the General mentioned as we were passing through.”

“Is there anything else here we should check out, General?” Dopey asked. Vaeril hummed a bit, considering that. 

“There’s an art shop, and a mechanics one. The mechanics has a starter kit where you can build a functional toy ship out of the pieces provided.” 

Dopey’s eyes brightened slightly. “That sounds interesting.” Vaeril nodded with a smile, continuing. 

“In the art shop, there are all kinds of things. I need to go there myself, and get more yarn.”

“What for?” Bashful wondered quietly. 

“I’m in the middle of knitting a blanket.” Vaeril answered. 

“Could you show me how to do that?”

“I can tomorrow.” Vaeril nodded, still smiling. “I’m out of yarn, currently.”

“Okay.” Bashful smiled. 

Once everyone had finished their pie, Vaeril stacked the boxes back up, gathering the now empty plates, looking over to Sleepy’s fruit and smiling slightly at seeing the raspberries and strawberries all gone, picking up the plate with a mental note to get more for tomorrow. 

“I can help you tidy up, General.” Doc offered. 

“Thank you, Doc.”

“I’ll put Snow to bed.” Happy volunteered as Doc started helping clear up the plates, noticing the fledgling yawn. “C’mon, Snow, let’s go pick out a bedtime story.” He scooped up his sleepy little sister gently, bouncing her a bit as he carried her out of the dining room. Snow snuggled into him with a sleepy purr, claws curling into his shirt as he carried her upstairs and into one of the bedrooms. He set her down on the bed gently, tucking the blankets over her before going to get one of her picture books out of her bag. 

“How about this one tonight?” Happy suggested, choosing one of her fairy tales. 

“Ok!” Snow nodded happily as Happy sat beside her, nuzzling his little sister affectionately and wrapping an arm around her, starting to read. By the time he was finished, the fledgling was already half asleep, cuddled into his arm happily. Happy set down the book, kissing her head. 

“Sweet dreams, Snow.” 

“This is nice.” Vaeril murmured, sat by the fireplace after all the troopers had gone to bed, watching the flames dance and crackle over the logs. 

“It is.” Kieran agreed quietly. “I can’t remember the last time we got a quiet moment together.”

Vaeril rested her head on his shoulder, squeezing his hands. “It’s nice to have the bedrooms actually be used.”

Kieran smiled slightly, squeezing hers back. “They seem to like it here. I look forward to getting to know them better.”

“They’re good young men.” Vaeril nodded. “And Snow is a sweetheart.”

Kieran nodded, humming quietly. “Not to change the subject, but I noticed Sleepy only had fruit during dessert rather than taking part in the pie. Is there something I should be aware of, while they’re staying with us?”

“Sleepy has an eating disorder, I believe.” Vaeril answered. “He claims he doesn’t like sweet food, and is very picky about what and how much he eats. I haven’t addressed it directly, yet.”

“Understood.” Kieran nodded. 

“I have suspicions for something else as well.” Vaeril noted more quietly after a second. “I don’t know what it is, but there is something about Sleepy that the rest are working together to hide. 

“Do you have any idea as to the nature of it?”

“...While we were at the Senate, that time they tried transferring your ARC to the Guard, Sleepy fell asleep while standing up.”

“That is odd.” Kieran agreed thoughtfully. “Though not necessarily indicative of anything on its own. Is there anything else?”

“There’s times he almost seems to fall asleep before being shaken awake by the others.” 

Kieran nodded, considering that. “..I’ll keep an eye out while we’re here.” He decided. Immediately, Vaeril smacked his arm, looking up at him sternly. “What?” He protested. 

“We are here for you to rest.” Vaeril reminded sharply. 

“Observing from my chair isn’t exerting myself.” Kieran snorted. “Don’t worry, love, I’m aware.”

“No, there will be no observing.”

“Alright, alright.” Kieran closed his eyes. “Better?”

“You know that isn’t what I mean.”

Kieran chuckled, opening them again. “I know. You don’t need to worry so much, Vaeril. I won’t exert myself until I've recovered.” 

Vaeril shook her head at him, getting to her feet. “We should get to bed.”

“Sounds good to me.” Kieran agreed, standing as well and taking her hand as they went upstairs. 

“Here’s some spending money, you lot.” Vaeril told them, handing them a large pouch. 

“Are you sure, General?” Sneezy blinked. “We’ve barely spent what you gave us last time.”

“It’s fine, go ahead.” Vaeril smiled. 

“Can I ask a question, General?” Sneezy wondered after a second.

“Of course.”

“Where does all this come from? You’ve given us so much at almost every stop we’ve made.”

“From my bank account. There’s quite a lot of credits in it.” Vaeril answered. Sneezy tilted his head slightly as he considered that answer, trying to decide if that was her serious answer or if she was messing with him. “I once wrote a few books, so it’s passive income.” Vaeril elaborated. 

“Oh, I see.” Sneezy nodded. Happy suddenly looked more interested.

“What kind of books, General?”

“It’s about a Jedi and an Ilfirin prince.” Vaeril answered. “In the fairytale style.”

“Sounds like the kind of stuff Happy reads.” Doc remarked. 

“You’ll most likely find copies of it in the village bookstore.” Vaeril told Happy. 

“Is it under your name, General?”

“No.” Vaeril shook her head. “It’s under Valeriya Blackburn.”

“Got it.”

Snow looked around with wide eyes as the group entered the village, trying to tug her hand free of Sneezy’s. “Hey.” Sneezy scolded, pulling her back to his side. “You’ve gotta stick with one of us, Snow, we don’t know this area yet. I think you’re due for another reward, though, so why don’t we go find the toy shop?”

Snow immediately brightened, practically bouncing as she followed her older brother down the street, earning a chuckle from him. The two located the toy shop after a little while of exploring and went inside, Snow immediately zeroing in on a fluffy plush pegasus. 

“What, spotted something already?” Sneezy asked, looking down at her when she tugged on his hand, letting him pull her over towards it. Snow immediately snatched up the plush, hugging it. “You like that one?”

“Uh huh!”

“Okay. Why don’t we look around a little more before you make your final choice?” Sneezy suggested. “Make sure there’s nothing else you like better. You can carry it while we look.” 

Snow nodded reluctantly, still hugging the plush pegasus tightly as they walked around the shop, nothing else seeming to catch her interest. Sneezy led her over to the counter to purchase it after a couple minutes, satisfied that was her final choice. 

“Four credits, please.” The man at the counter told him. Sneezy took them out of the pouch, handing them over to the shopkeeper. 

“Alright, Snow, let’s go find the others again.”

Snow nodded, humming cheerfully as the fledgling followed Sneezy out of the toy shop, hugging her new plush tightly. Sneezy looked around, spotting the others going into another shop down the street. “There they are. Come on.”

The two followed their siblings inside the bookshop, Snow immediately starting to giggle when the dust inside caused Sneezy to erupt into a loud series of, well, sneezes. “Dust.” Sneezy sniffled when his brothers looked at him, immediately sneezing again. 

“I’ll take Snow, Sneezy, why don’t you go sit outside?” Bashful suggested when the fit of allergies didn’t seem to be letting up anytime soon. Sneezy grimaced, letting go of Snow’s hand as Bashful took it instead, going to wait for them outside. 

Happy had wandered off on his own, disappearing further into the shop as he browsed down the aisles, looking for Vaeril’s books along with anything else that appeared interesting. “Can I help you with something?” A voice asked him after a couple minutes, Happy looking over his shoulder to see a young woman standing there. 

“I’m browsing, mostly, but there are a couple I’m looking for specifically.” Happy answered with a smile. 

“What are you looking for? I can help you find them.” The young woman offered. 

“I’m looking for the books by Valeriya Blackburn.”

The young woman hummed after a second. “They’re this way.”

“Thank you.” Happy followed her down the aisles, the young woman stopping at one shelf and running her finger along the spines of eight books. 

“Here you are.” She told him. “That’s a really good choice, it’s an excellent read.”

“Is there anything else similar you’d recommend?” Happy wondered. 

“There’s quite a few, but I’d have to make a list.” She answered after a moment of consideration.

“I’ve got time to wait- my name’s Happy, by the way.”

“I’m Klava Danilovna, it’s nice to meet you.”

“You too!” Happy’s feathers ruffled enthusiastically, a wide smile still on his face. Klava retrieved a pen and a piece of paper, quickly writing out a list of similar books to give him. 

“Here you go. These are all fairytales as well.”

“Thank you.” Happy smiled. “I’ll check these out.”

“You’re welcome. Let me know if you have any more questions.” 

“You lot?” Vaeril addressed them once they’d returned home, clearing her throat slightly. 

“Yeah, General?” Dopey looked up, working on assembling the small plane kit he’d gotten. Vaeril reached into her cloak pocket, pulling out eight cards. 

“I have opened accounts for all of you, with ten percent each of the money I earn from my books going into it, so you can spend it however you like.”

“Oh, General, you didn’t have to do that!” Sneezy sounded slightly startled. Vaeril’s lips twitched, holding the cards out to him. 

“You should probably look after them.”

Sneezy hesitated, studying the cards, before nodding and accepting them. “Thank you, General.”

“It’s no trouble.” Vaeril smiled. Happy got up after a second, walking over and giving her a hug. She returned the gesture, resting her head against his briefly. 

“Thanks, General.”

“No need to thank me.” Vaeril murmured, squeezing his shoulders. Happy stepped back after a moment longer, smiling brightly at her before going back to his seat, picking up his book again. “I’ll go start on dinner, it’ll be ready in an hour.” She informed the group. 

“Do you want help?” Doc asked, looking up from his datapad. 

Vaeril shook her head. “You all continue what you’re doing.” She stated, making her way into the kitchen. As she started making the food, a stray thought popped into her head. 

If this is what it’s like to have a home full of children, I wish I’d had more here sooner.

Chapter Text

Nickel arched an eyebrow as he heard shouting up ahead, the Guard Captain turning the corner to see a Pantoran Senator berating a bunch of shinies. Another Pantoran woman stood a couple feet away, seeming rather uncomfortable with the situation. The pair of shinies immediately waved him over half desperately when they saw him, clearly in way over their heads. “Ma’am, what’s the matter?” Nickel asked when he reached them, drawing the woman’s attention. 

“These two fools will not watch where they’re going.” Kozzemi Chuchi snapped, gesturing towards them angrily. “Crashed straight into me.”

“That’s not what-” One of the shinies started to object before falling silent when the Senator’s glare landed on him. 

Please keep your mouth shut, shiny. Nickel thought, clearing his throat so the Senator would look at him again. “I’m sorry for them, ma’am. It’s unacceptable that they did that.”

“Indeed!”

“They’ll be reprimanded for this.” Nickel continued. “They shouldn’t do it again.”

“See to it they don’t.” Kozzemi scowled, though seeming somewhat placated now. The young woman standing behind her sighed quietly, shifting the files in her arms.

“With me, you two.” Nickel instructed. “I hope you have a good day, Senator.” He added as he turned away. The two shinies followed him silently, though one twitched his wings in obvious frustration. 

“Right, what actually happened?” Nickel asked, once they were a few corridors away. 

“We were at our posts, sir.” The calmer one answered. “Where we’re supposed to be. The Senator was berating that assistant of hers, wasn’t looking where she was going, and slammed into Pip before we had a chance to move.”

“Yeah, that sounds more correct.” Nickel sighed. 

“Started screaming like a bloody seagull.” Pip muttered sullenly. 

“Right, in the future, try not to argue. Just act remorseful.” Nickel told them. 

“Yes sir.” Mer nodded. 

“Head back to the barracks for today. Tell the Commanders you’re being ‘punished.’”

Pip’s feathers ruffled uncertainly. “..Are we actually?”

“Fuck no.” Nickel snorted. “But it needs to go on your files that you were.”

“Yes sir.”

“What are your names?” Nickel asked them before they could leave. 

“I’m Mer, sir. And that’s Pip.”

Nickel nodded. “Right, get back to the barracks.”

“Thank you, Captain.” Pip added before the two shinies hurried off. 

Once they were gone, Nickel tapped at his comm, entering a specific frequency for the higher ranks and clearing his throat. “The two troopers called Pip and Mer are mine.” He announced. “Anyone tries claiming them, I’ll break your wings.”

“Now that’s unfair, you’re the only one who’s gotten to work with any of the new ones.” Thire complained.

“Maybe you should try harder, then.” 

“Don’t tease him, Nickel, you know he’s stuck on prison duty for the next month.” Thorn laughed. 

“Would it be legal to let a prisoner loose in the Senate?” Thire wondered after a brief pause. 

“Thire, no.” Fox answered tiredly, joining the call in time to hear this. 

“It’s not fair that Nickel is stealing all the shinies!”

“And what the hell does that have to do with releasing a prisoner in the Senate?!” 

Nickel’s wheezing became audible over the comm as he ducked into a closet, shoulders shaking with laughter as he listened. 

“Not just any prisoner.” Thire grumbled sullenly. “Would’ve grabbed Boost or one of his twins, it’s only a matter of fucking time before they end up over here again anyway.” 

“I still don’t see what that has to do with Nickel stealing shinies?!” Fox demanded, only growing more confused. 

“Thire wants to adopt some shinies as well.” Thorn filled in. “So he wants a chance to go to the Senate.” 

“Careful what you wish for, Thire.” Fox said after a moment of silence. “I start on next month’s rotations tomorrow.” 

“Sign him up for a year of it!” Nickel wheezed, finding his voice. 

“No, no, I’m good!” Thire backpedaled hastily, this statement being greeted with more laughter from the others. 

Nickel was silent now as he stood at his post in the hallway, back against the wall and his shoulders straight, noting the younger Pantoran woman from earlier approaching out of the corner of his eye. 

“Excuse me?” She said quietly, stopping when she reached him. 

“Can I help you, ma’am?” Nickel asked politely, turning to look at her. Riyo shook her head. 

“No, I just wanted to apologize for Senator Chuchi’s behavior earlier.” She murmured. “Your men weren’t at fault, and I didn’t want them to get in trouble because of my stepmother’s temper tantrum.”

“They didn’t get in trouble.” Nickel reassured her. “It just had to seem that way in front of the Senator.”

“Oh, good.” She exhaled. “Again, I’m so sorry about all that…”

“It’s no trouble, ma’am.”

“I’ll let you get back to work. Thank you.”

After the assistant was gone, Nickel tapped on his comm, rejoining the higher ups’ channel and grinning behind his helmet at seeing Fox was on the line. “Where did you say you wanted me to hide the body, Commander Stone?” He asked. 

“What the fuck-” Fox started, Stone immediately rolling with it, talking over him. 

“Senators’ cargo crates. They won’t let us inspect ‘em, it’s their own fault if a body turns up in there.” 

“I’ll get right on it, sir.” Nickel nodded, keeping his tone serious despite the grin on his face. 

“Stone, I swear to Kanerth, if you corrupt him…” Fox started. Thorn’s snort was heard shortly after that, followed by a stifled snicker. “I don’t care who the fuck died but leave Nickel out of it.” 

That set Thorn off, the other Commander laughing loudly and setting off a chain reaction with everyone else, all those listening absolutely losing it. Except Fox, that is, who maintained his composure. 

“You’re all idiots.” Fox grunted.

“Aw, c’mon Fox, you know we’re entertaining.” Thorn snickered. 

“Get back to work.” 

“Do you need help, ma’am?” Nickel asked, seeing the same Pantoran assistant the next day, struggling with a load of datapads. She looked up, shaking her head. 

“Oh, no, thank you. I’m fine- oh!” She sighed in frustration as a few of them slid from her arms, clattering to the floor at her lapse in concentration. Nickel grimaced, bending down and picking them up for her. “Thank you, I’m sorry.” Riyo adjusted the ones still in her arms, reaching out to take back the ones she’d dropped. 

“I’ll help you carry them, ma’am.” Nickel told her. 

“Oh, would you? Thank you so much.” Riyo smiled gratefully, nodding. “I’m just going back to the Pantoran suite.”

Nickel nodded, taking a few more datapads from her and starting to make his way towards the Pantoran suite, keeping pace with the young woman. “How is the day treating you?” She asked him quietly, tone friendly. 

“No different than any other day.” Nickel answered politely. 

“I hope the rest of it goes well for you.”

“You as well, ma’am.” 

Riyo stopped when they reached the door of the suite, turning back to him. “I can take it from here, thank you. No sense unnecessarily subjecting you to my stepmother’s bad mood.”

Nickel nodded in understanding, passing the datapads back to her. “Have a good day, ma’am.”

“You too, Captain.” She answered with a small smile before pushing the door open, going inside. Turning away, Nickel blanched, eyes widening under his helmet at seeing a large reptile plod around the corner. 

“Holy shit…”

The crocodile up ahead paused, staring straight at him, before plodding on as if it simply did not care. After a second, Nickel tapped at his comm, entering the command frequency. “So, there’s a crocodile loose in the Senate…” He said slowly, trailing the creature at a distance. 

“Fox isn’t on the line, Nickel.” His sister, Penny, told him. 

“I’m not joking, there’s a crocodile loose in the Senate.”

“Why the hell would there be a crocodile?” Thorn asked. 

“I don’t know, but I’m currently following it.”

“I’ll grab Hound and Beetle, this sounds like an ARF trooper job.” Penny decided. “We’ll meet you shortly.”

Nickel continued to trail the crocodile as it plodded along lazily, not seeming aggressive at least. It paused to stare at a hallway decoration, and Nickel could’ve sworn he saw disgust in the creature’s eyes before its large tail swept the table out from under it, sending the decoration to the floor with a crash and continuing lazily down the hall. It moved so slowly, they’d barely made it three corridors away from the Pantoran suite when Penny, Hound, and Beetle arrived. 

“You weren’t kidding. Where did that come from?!” Hound demanded, hurrying up to him. 

“I have no clue.” Nickel shook his head. “Let’s just get it before it decides it's hungry.”

“Will animal control even take a crocodile?” Beetle muttered. “Where do we put the thing?”

“You two deal with it, I’ll comm Fox.” Nickel told them. “Maybe it’s a Senator’s pet.”

“Right.” Hound nodded, taking out a rope and starting towards it. Nickel stood next to Penny, dialing Fox’s number into his comm as the two ARFs cautiously approached the reptile. 

“Yes?”

“Fox, which Senator has a crocodile as a pet?”

“I beg your pardon?” Fox clearly hadn’t been brought up to speed.

“Which Senator has a crocodile as a pet?” Nickel repeated. 

“..I’ll have to check. Why?” Fox sounded as if he almost didn’t want to know the answer to that. 

“There’s one loose in the Senate, Commander.”

“Of course there is.”

Nickel felt around his helmet for a second before inputting the code that would send the live feed from his helmcam to Fox’s datapad. The Commander sighed a bit in disbelief. “Right. I’ll see if I can find a crocodile on the Senate’s registry…” 

“Yes sir.” Nickel nodded, watching Hound and Beetle tie the rope into a makeshift leash around the reptile’s body. The crocodile, surprisingly, didn’t seem to mind this, blinking at the two ARF troopers lazily. 

“Right, found it.” Fox said a couple minutes later. “Belongs to the Pialaran delegation.” 

“I’ll return it to them, then.” Nickel nodded. “Thank you, sir.”

“Good luck.” Fox answered before hanging up. Nickel made his way over, taking the rope from Beetle. 

“This one belongs to the Pialaran delegation. I’ll take it back.”

“Got it.” Beetle nodded. 

“Do you need help?” Hound asked. 

“No, I think this one is friendly enough.”

“We’ll stick around for a little bit anyways, not like we’re currently needed elsewhere. Just shout if you do end up needing us.” Beetle said. Nickel nodded, tugging on the rope and starting to lead the crocodile along. 

It waddled after him at the same leisurely pace as before, giant tail swishing and knocking over another decorative table holding a rather ugly vase, the poor choice in decoration shattering on the floor. “Eh, not too big a loss.” Nickel mumbled. “Maybe they’ll get something actually nicer to look at.” 

If crocodiles could look smug, this one did. Nickel led it down a few more corridors, reaching the suite and knocking on the door. A force field fizzled into place as it opened, a teenage Fae boy standing in the doorway. “You found him!” He declared in heavily accented Basic upon spotting the crocodile. Nickel nodded, passing the rope to him. 

“I don’t know how he escaped you, but please try to keep him from doing it again?” He requested politely. “The other Senators might claim he tried attacking them, next time, which is more of a headache than it’s worth.”

The boy shook his head. “Snuck out while we were bringing food.” He explained. “Sorry for trouble.”

“It’s no trouble.” Nickel shook his head. 

“Snapper, naughty.” The teenager scolded the crocodile, wagging a finger at it as he nudged it back into the room, before turning back to Nickel. “Join us for food?” He offered. “For bringing back Snapper.”

“Thank you.” Nickel accepted after a second of consideration, appearance shifting to resemble that of aFae as he stepped inside, removing his helmet. 

“Pyro.” The teenager gestured to himself as he closed the door, bending down to untie the rope from around Snapper.

“I’m Nickel.” He nodded, looking around. The suite was barely recognizable with how it had been adapted, large jungle plants covering the whole room. A cooking fire was set up where the kitchen and dining room would normally be, with mossy logs positioned around it for seating. None of the original flooring was visible, instead replaced with a soft layer of moss and leaves from the plants, and despite the objectively “polluted” air that the Fae required to breathe, it smelled cleaner than anywhere else in the Senate- or on Coruscant, for that matter.

“Thank you, Nickel.” Pyro told him, nudging the crocodile and saying something to it in Fae, the reptile trudging further into the suite after, going towards a tiny Fae woman on the other side of the room, with wings that resembled a pair of leaves. 

Taking a couple more steps in, Nickel startled, wings arching when he saw an odd, snail resembling creature slightly larger than his hand sprinting towards him. “Is okay!” Pyro reassured him, noticing his reaction. “Just snail-dog!”

Nickel held very still, battling the urge to punt the weird thing across the room as it climbed up his leg and torso, perching itself on his shoulder. The creature squeaked happily, nuzzling his face, the odd little stump poking out the back of its shell wagging like a tail. “...Huh.” He muttered, gingerly petting it with one finger. Was kinda cute, now he was looking at it. 

“Very friendly.” Pyro told him. “Eat pests, keep plants healthy.”

Nickel nodded, sitting down on a log when Pyro gestured towards it, more of the creatures immediately clambering over him with excited squeaks and squeals. A much taller, light orange skinned male Fae entered the room a moment later, a small smile appearing on his face at seeing the crocodile returned to its place, turning to Pyro and asking him a question in their language. Pyro answered him, pointing at Nickel. The male nodded, turning to face the clone. 

“Thank you for finding Snapper.”

“It’s no trouble.” Nickel shook his head. 

“I am Flame.” The tall man said, then gesturing to the tiny Fae woman the crocodile had gone over to her. “My mate, Grove.”

Nickel smiled slightly, nodding in acknowledgement as a tiny Fae girl poked her head out from behind Grove, absolutely dwarfed by him. “Fiery.” Pyro told him, pointing at her. “Tiny sister.”

The small Fae asked something, tilting her head slightly as she watched Nickel, earning her a sharp tap on her head from her father. “Be polite, Fiery.” He admonished. “Go help Pyro with food.”

The small Fae mumbled something else grumpily, trudging over to her larger brother as Flame turned his attention back to the Captain. “Your name Nickel?” He inquired. 

“It is, Senator.”

“Good to meet you.” Flame nodded. “No need call me ‘Senator.’ Chief, if insist on title. Flame is fine.”

“It’s good to meet you too.” Nickel answered. 

“Food ready soon.” Flame told him. “Tea, while you wait?”

“Yes please.” Nickel nodded.

Flame walked away, returning a moment later with two carved wooden cups, offering one of them to Nickel. He studied the contents briefly before taking a small sip, Flame sitting on one of the logs opposite. Pyro passed him a wooden bowl of some sort of stew a few minutes later, handing out bowls to his family members as well. 

About to start eating, Nickel hissed suddenly as small, sharp teeth sank into the exposed part of his wrist, looking down to see what appeared to be a sentient blackberry with tiny, useless looking wings hanging off of him. 

“No!” Pyro glared at the creature, grabbing it and easily prying it free. “How you get out?” He grumbled, putting aside his bowl. 

“...Is that a sentient fruit?” Nickel asked slowly. 

“Fruit dragon.” Flame answered as Pyro carried the creature over to a corral on the other side of the room. 

“I got bitten by a fucking sentient fruit.” Nickel complained into his comm once he’d left the Fae, with promises to visit later. 

“That’s a good one, that’ll make Fox blink.” Penny told him. 

“Again, I’m not joking.” Nickel insisted. 

“Where the hell did you find a sentient fruit?” Thire asked after a second as Penny started cracking up on her end.

“The Pialaran suite.”

“Oh, that checks out then.” Stone laughed, having overseen some of the modifications to the suite before he was placed in charge of the prison. 

“Also, have any of you ever seen snails run? It’s vaguely terrifying.”

“You’re just having all kinds of wacky adventures today.” Penny laughed. 

“Tell me about it.” Nickel muttered. “I never want to see a snail sprinting at me ever again.”

“What were the Fae like?” Thorn asked. 

“They were polite enough, if a bit strange.” Nickel answered. “And whatever the Fae hatchling said about me earned her a tap on the head.”

“Nice to know there’s somebody in that building who’s not an asshole.” Stone said wryly, the young assistant from earlier approaching Nickel quietly while he was talking to the others. Noticing her, Nickel muted his comm, turning to face her. 

“Can I help you, ma’am?”

“I just wanted to thank you for your help earlier.” She explained quietly, holding out a cup of coffee. “So I thought I’d bring you this.”

“Oh, thank you.” Nickel nodded, hesitating for a moment before accepting it. 

“My name is Riyo, by the way.”

“I’m Nickel, ma’am. It’s nice to meet you.”

“You as well.” Riyo smiled, before her gaze was drawn to something behind him. “..Forgive me if you’re already aware, Captain, but you seem to have a little ride-along.”

“Sorry?” Nickel sounded a bit confused, trying to crane his head to see what she was on about. A tiny snail dog poked its head over his shoulder, clinging to his back armor and partially hidden underneath his wing. Nickel swore, wings arching in surprise as he stared at it. A slight giggle escaped the Pantoran assistant at his reaction, studying it curiously. 

“What is that?”

“It’s from the Pialaran suite. They call it a snail-dog.” Nickel answered, gingerly scooping the tiny creature up. 

“It’s kinda cute. Is it friendly?”

“From what they said, yeah.” Nickel nodded. 

“Can I touch it?” Riyo tilted her head slightly. 

“Go ahead.” Nickel answered. Riyo reached out, gingerly stroking the little creature. 

“Oh, how odd.” She blinked, not quite expecting the slimy texture. Nickel’s wings ruffled in amusement, watching her stroke it. “Oh.” Riyo sighed when her comm buzzed, checking the message that appeared and grimacing slightly. “I’m afraid I have to go. But have a good night, Captain. Hopefully we’ll run into each other again soon.”

Once she was gone, Nickel unmuted his comm, still watching the tiny snail-dog in his palm. Penny was laughing again, the others having been listening in on the conversation. “Shut up, Penny.” Nickel huffed at his sister. 

“How long has that been hiding there?” Penny asked him, still laughing. 

“Penny, maybe you should think over what you’re asking.” Thire interrupted.

“What?”

“It was hiding. How is Nickel supposed to know how long it was there?”

“He can guess.” Penny huffed after a second. “Anyway, you’re nearly done for the day, right Nickel?”

“I am.” 

“I’m finishing my patrol, I’ll come meet you and we can head back to HQ together.”

“Right, I’ll go take this thing back to the Fae.”

“But I wanna see it!” Penny immediately protested. 

“I’ll record a video for you.”

“That’ll do, I guess.” Penny fake pouted before her tone immediately became cheery again. “See you in half an hour.”

A couple days later, Nickel passed by a supply room, though quickly backtracking when he overheard crying inside. Immediately becoming concerned, he opened the door, spotting Riyo sitting on the floor inside, resting her head against her knees and a box of files sitting next to her. 

“Are you okay, ma’am?” Nickel asked. 

Riyo looked up sharply, hurriedly wiping her eyes. “O-oh! Captain- I’m fine.” She answered shakily, covering her cheek with her hand. 

Nickel frowned a bit under his helmet. “No, you aren’t.”

“..It’s just been a bad day.” Riyo mumbled quietly. “Stepmother’s been even more bad tempered than usual.”

“Did she hit you, ma’am?”

Riyo nodded slightly after a moment, lowering her hand to uncover a nasty looking bruise on her cheek. Nickel’s frown deepened. 

“That looks quite nasty. You should get that looked at.”

“There’s no point.” Riyo muttered. “She’ll just get angrier when I go back.”

Nickel debated with himself, considering his next course of action, before closing the door behind him. Riyo looked down again, hugging her knees against her chest as Nickel knelt in front of her. He removed his helmet, blonde curls bouncing up slightly without it keeping them flat, warm brown eyes regarding her with concern. “Ma’am- Riyo-” He corrected himself. “You need to get that looked at. Leaving it without treatment could make it worse.”

Riyo nodded reluctantly after a moment, sniffling and wiping her eyes again. “I-I suppose so…”

“I can take you to one of our medics, if you wish.” Nickel offered. Riyo nodded again, hesitantly. 

“Okay…”

Nickel stood back up, offering his hand to Riyo. She took it, standing up and bending down to pick up the box of files as Nickel put his helmet back on. Riyo followed him out of the supply room quietly, keeping her head down as they started down the hallway.

“If you stay back here, I’ll deliver the box to the Senator.” Nickel told her, taking it from her when they were just around the corner. 

“Thank you…” Riyo whispered, stopping and waiting as he strode around the corner, making his way towards the Pantoran suite and knocking politely on the door once he reached it. After a minute of him waiting, Kozzemi opened the door, eyes immediately narrowing upon seeing Nickel standing there. 

“What do you think you’re doing here?”

“I was given this box of files to give you, Senator Chuchi.” Nickel answered politely. Kozzemi’s expression darkened further.

“I sent Riyo to do that. Where has that lazy girl gotten to?!” She demanded. 

“I don’t know that, ma’am.”

“Don’t lie to me, Captain, where has she gone?!”

“I don’t know, ma’am.” Nickel repeated again. Kozzemi fumed, snatching the box from him and slamming it down onto a table. 

“You know something. I will not tolerate such disrespect, nor such laziness from my employee.”

“I don’t know anything, ma’am.” Nickel insisted. “Have a good day, Senator.” He turned away, starting to walk off. Before he got more than a couple steps away, he hissed sharply as he felt a rough yank on his feathers, Kozzemi grabbing hold of his wing. 

“You are not going anywhere, clone, until you tell me where my assistant is!”

Nickel’s expression twisted as Kozzemi yanked on his feathers again, continuing to yell and berate him, the commotion bringing Thorn around the corner from the other end of the hall. “Senator, unhand the Captain this instant!” He snapped sharply, hurrying over. 

Nickel stumbled as Kozzemi shoved him forward roughly, leaving the livid Pantoran clutching a few of his feathers as Thorn planted himself firmly between her and his trooper.

“What in the world is going on here?”

“I was delivering Senator Chuchi a box of files her assistant asked me to, Commander-” Nickel started to explain before Kozzemi interrupted, practically snarling.

“Your trooper is refusing to tell me where my assistant is!”

“And is he supposed to have a tracker on every staff member in the building?” Thorn countered. “If he doesn’t know, he doesn’t know, and it is not an excuse for you to injure him!”

“How dare you-” Kozzemi puffed up, only getting shriller in her anger.

“And at this point, I really couldn’t care less!” Thorn cut her off. “We are leaving, now, so find her yourself. Good day , ma’am.” With that, Thorn turned around and grasped Nickel’s shoulder, leading him away. “You alright?” He asked, lowering his voice.

Nickel nodded, wincing a bit under his helmet, inclining his head slightly to where Riyo was hidden around the corner. “Right, come on.” Thorn walked that way with him, tossing a glance over his shoulder to make sure Kozzemi didn’t go after them. 

“Let’s go.” Nickel told Riyo quietly when he and Thorn reached her. 

“I’m sorry.” Riyo whispered, glancing at his wings worriedly. Nickel gestured for her to follow, shaking his head.

“It’s okay.”

“Penny’s on her way to meet you like usual, isn’t she?” Thorn asked him. “I expect she’ll be able to get you back to HQ alright.”

“She is, Commander.”

“I’ll walk you down to meet her.” Thorn glanced at Riyo. “She going with you?”

“She needs to get that bruise looked at.” Nickel answered. Thorn nodded.

“I’ll call ahead and tell Bear you’ll both need attention. Guessing you’d rather take her to HQ than the medical here, after the hissy fit Senator Chuchi just threw.”

“Yes, Commander.”

“Right.” Thorn pressed the comm built into his helmet, contacting the CMO as they walked towards the main entrance of the Senate building. A shorter trooper was waiting when they reached it, immediately noticing their approach. 

“Hey, Nickel!” Penny immediately greeted her brother, faltering slightly at noticing the messy patch on his wing. “What happened?”

“Senator Chuchi went nuts.” Nickel answered. 

“Let’s get back and get that looked at, then.” 

When the three reached the Guard barracks, Nickel led Riyo past the desk, heading down the hallway leading to their medbay. The door was open when they reached it, and Bear waited for them expectantly when they entered. 

“Thorn told me you were coming. I’ll take a look at your wing first, Nickel.” Bear rumbled before turning to Riyo. “Take a seat, miss, and I’ll have one of the others get to you next.” He gestured to a chair before turning his attention to Nickel, starting to comb through the trooper’s feathers to get a better look at the damage. He tsked in annoyance, combing out multiple snapped ones. 

“These people don’t have any respect for our feathers.” The Alpha grumbled. “But I’m not seeing any serious damage, it’s mostly superficial.”

“So I’m good to get back to work?” Nickel asked. 

“Hypothetically, yes. I’ll have to speak to Fox, though.”

Nickel turned his head to look at Bear, slightly confused. “You said there wasn’t any serious damage.”

“There isn’t.” Bear answered. “But the Senators like you, Nickel. If we can play our cards right we might get something actually done about this for once.”

“Oh.” Nickel nodded, sitting up straight again. 

“You’re free to go for now.” Bear said after taking a final look at the spot. “Looks like your friend’s been taken care of as well now, if you wanted to go talk to her.”

Nickel pushed himself up to stand, making his way over to where Riyo was sitting. She looked up when he approached, a bacta patch now bandaged over the bruise on her face. “That making it feel better?” He asked her. 

Riyo nodded shyly. “It is… thank you.”

“Is there anyone you can stay with?”

Riyo shook her head, frowning thoughtfully. “My sister is back on Pantora, her baby is nearly due now.” She murmured. “My stepmother still controls my inheritance for another year, I have no way to pay for passage off the planet. I have nowhere to go.” Nickel frowned thoughtfully as she continued quietly, half thinking out loud. “Everyone I know among the Senators are people who would side with her. I don’t trust any of them…”

“Maybe I could talk to the Fae delegation for you?” Nickel offered. “They might know someone who would be willing to help you.”

“Would you do that?” Riyo looked up at him.

“If you want.” 

“Oh, thank you.”

Chapter Text

Two weeks later, Nickel stretched out as he leaned against the wall, rubbing his arms with a wince as he silently thanked every deity there was that another day of being dragged around by the female Senators was over. He heard a voice a couple minutes later, looking down to see Grove. 

“Nickel.” The small Fae greeted him politely, pushing herself up off the ground to hover at eye level with him, leafy wings rustling as she beat them rapidly. Hurriedly, Nickel straightened up, nodding politely despite his exhaustion. 

“Hello, ma’am.”

Grove studied him for a moment, seeming to stare straight through his visor, before pursing her lips. “They treat you very rude.” She grunted. “Take a break, come visit. Lunch nearly ready.”

“It’s fine-” Nickel started immediately, shaking his head. 

“If you no drink water soon, going to pass out.” Grove insisted. “At least that.”

After a minute, Nickel nodded. “Okay, ma’am.” 

“Good.” Grove nodded, gesturing for him to follow her as she started flying back down the hallway. Drawing in a quiet breath, Nickel did so, being led back towards the Pialaran suite. “Fiery!” Grove called to her daughter as she flew inside, giving the child directions in their native language as she ushered Nickel over towards one of the logs. The small child padded towards the kitchen area, disappearing into it as Nickel was pushed down to sit, his appearance shifting as the Fae woman tugged off his helmet. 

“Senate women have no sense.” Grove grunted, setting his helmet on the log next to him. “Rude and stupid.” 

Fiery trotted back up, holding a wooden cup filled with water, the tiny Fae shoving it into Nickel’s hands. “Drink.” Grove instructed him, flying away to get something else as he sipped it. She returned a moment later, holding a small wooden charm on a string with a rune carved into it. 

“Here.” She told him, holding it out. “This let you breathe our air. Friend of Fae always welcome.”

“Thank you.” Nickel nodded after a second, taking it and fastening it around his neck, appearance reverting back to normal. 

“Lunch nearly ready. Stay and eat?” Grove asked him once he’d finished the cup of water. Nickel hesitated, then nodded. 

“Thank you.”

Grove nodded approvingly, flying off to help Pyro finish the food as Flame entered the room, nodding to Nickel upon seeing him. “Hello Nickel.”

“Silly Senate women overworked him!” Fiery piped up, having overheard her mother speaking, Nickel startling slightly at finally hearing the Fae child speak Basic. 

“Good Basic, Fiery!” Flame praised her before turning his attention to Nickel again. “What they do?”

“Dragged me around while they went shopping and had me carry their bags.”

Flame snorted in disbelief. “But you are warrior. Not donkey.”

“Tell that to them.” Nickel muttered. “I’m apparently their favorite, which isn’t a good thing.”

“Going to fix that.” Grove grumbled ominously from the cooking fire, hovering over the pot of stew. Nickel’s eyes flickered to her briefly, then pretended he hadn’t heard that. 

“I really shoulda just been rude to them the first time.” He sighed. 

“Why you say that?” Flame asked. 

“Because they asked me which one of them was prettier.” Grove immediately snorted in disbelief, this new information not improving her opinion of the Senators in question. “And that question is a lose-lose.” Nickel elaborated. “You can’t just… pick one unless you want to end up hurt.”

Flame’s eyes widened slightly in astonishment. “They would hurt you over their stupid fight?” He demanded. Nickel nodded, rubbing his face with a sigh. 

“That question, if you ever encounter it, is a trap.”

Grove flew over, handing him a bowl filled with the stew. “Plenty left if want more after.”

“Thank you, ma’am.” Nickel nodded, accepting it. Grove flew back to the pot, starting to dish up bowls for herself and the rest of her family as Nickel recalled something, looking back at Flame. “What Senators do you talk to?” He asked. 

“Consortium.” Flame answered. “Atlantis, Ebbirene, Coilea. That lot. Why?”

“You know the Pantoran Senator?”

“Unfortunately.”

“She recently struck her assistant while angry.” Nickel answered. “And she doesn’t want to go back to her, but she currently has no real allies.”

Flame nodded thoughtfully. “Will ask others. What her name?”

“Riyo Chuchi.” Nickel answered. Flame nodded again.

“Will let you know.”

“Thank you.” Nickel nodded, trying a bite of the stew. 

“Better?” Grove asked after he’d eaten a good portion of it, studying him. 

“Yes ma’am.”

“Good.” Grove looked satisfied, refilling his water cup. “Finish that, then can go .”

The red haired Aearian woman looked up when she felt someone tap her shoulder, turning around to see Flame standing behind her. “Hello.” Flame nodded. “Speak with you?”

“You can.” Siora agreed, turning to fully face him. “What’s the matter, Chief Flame?” 

“Nickel has friend who needs help.” Flame explained, Siora recalling the name of the clone the Fae had apparently adopted after a moment. “Senator Chuchi hurt her. Needs place to go, has no one to help her.”

Siora hummed thoughtfully. “Is this Senator Chuchi’s assistant?”

“Yes.” Flame nodded. “Her name Riyo Chuchi.”

“Did he say where she’s currently staying?”

“At the Guard house.”

“I’ll go have a talk with her, then. Thank you, Chief Flame.”

Flame nodded in response. “Thank you.” He answered before striding off. 

A few hours later, Siora made her way out of the Senate building, carrying her toddler and baby daughters in her arms and a cloak covering her shoulders, bouncing them gently as she walked along and smiling at Meira when the toddler grabbed at her face with a happy squeal before settling down, hugging Siora’s neck. 

“Good girl.” Siora murmured, kissing her little girl’s face. Meira giggled, hugging her Naneth and looking around curiously as they walked, her little sister Jewel sleeping like a log. 

“Pretty, isn’t it?” Siora smiled slightly, watching her daughter. Meira shook her head after a second, face scrunching up slightly. 

“Naneth prettier.” She declared. Siora giggled slightly, planting kisses over the girl’s face as Meira chattered at her happily, the little family soon approaching the Guard barracks. Siora pushed the door open, making her way inside. The Guard at the desk looked up when she approached, straightening slightly.

“Can I help you, ma’am?”

“Is Riyo Chuchi here?” Siora asked politely. “I’d like to speak to her.”

“Can I get a name?”

“Siora Waterflower. I’m the Atlantean Senator.”

The Guard nodded. “I’ll get her. Wait here, ma’am.”

Siora bounced her two girls, waiting patiently and humming quietly to Meira. The clone returned a couple minutes later, followed by a young Pantoran woman with light pink hair. “Riyo Chuchi?” Siora asked, smiling. 

“Yes.” Riyo nodded. “Can I help you?”

“I was told about your situation by Chief Flame.” Siora explained. “Can we continue this in a cafe, if you don’t mind?”

“Yes, that would be fine.” Riyo agreed quietly. Siora smiled, turning to lead the way out of the building. Riyo smiled slightly at Meira as the child peered curiously over Siora’s shoulder. 

“This one is Meira.” Siora told her. “And the sleeping one is called Jewel.”

“They’re adorable.” Riyo answered.

“Thank you.” Siora nodded with a smile, the two women reaching a cafe near the Guard barracks a few minutes later, Siora holding the door open for Riyo. The young woman chose a table near one of the windows, sitting down. 

“Go play over there, Meira.” Siora murmured, pointing to the small play area after setting her down. 

“Ok!” Meira nodded cheerfully, scampering off to play with the other children there. Siora sat down opposite Riyo, waving over a waiter. 

“I’ll have an iced tea, please.” She told him, then looked at Riyo. “What would you like?”

“Just a hot chocolate, if you don’t mind.” Riyo answered quietly. 

“And she’ll have a hot chocolate.” Siora added on. 

“Right away, ma’am.” The waiter agreed, walking away to get their drinks.

“Does Senator Chuchi mistreat you often?” Siora asked Riyo. She nodded slowly after a moment. 

“It’s… been this way for years.” She explained quietly. “Since my father died when I was a girl.”

“The best I can do is offer you a position as one of my assistants.” Siora admitted, after some thought. Riyo considered that, tapping one finger against her knee. 

“I… think that would be enough. I just need a way out from under her control until I can claim my inheritance next year.”

Siora nodded thoughtfully. “Atlantis’s Queen will back me in whatever I decide, and especially against Senator Kozzemi.” She told Riyo. “I’m her second cousin.”

“I appreciate that a lot.” Riyo murmured. “I’ll work hard for you.”

“I’ll probably just have you look after the girls.” Siora explained. Riyo nodded, smiling at the little girl sleeping in Siora’s arms. 

“I can do that.” 

Siora knocked politely on the door of the Pantoran suite, standing outside with Riyo and a couple of Guards. Kozzemi opened it, immediately zeroing in on Riyo and narrowing her eyes. “Where have you been, girl?” She demanded. 

“Good afternoon to you too, Senator Chuchi.” Siora’s tone was pointed. 

“Senator Waterflower.” Kozzemi’s tone became grudgingly more polite, switching her gaze to her. “Can I help you?”

“We have come to collect my new assistant’s belongings.”

“What are you talking about, your assistant?”

“Riyo has decided she would much rather work for me.”

“You can’t be serious.” Kozzemi stared at Riyo, pursing her lips. Riyo swallowed a little before straightening a little. 

“She is serious, Senator Chuchi. I will no longer work for you.”

“If you don’t mind, we would like to collect Riyo’s belongings now.” Siora stated firmly, drawing Kozzemi’s attention back to her before the Pantoran Senator could lose her temper. 

“Fine.” Kozzemi agreed begrudgingly, glaring as she stepped aside to let them pass. Siora led the way inside, gesturing for Riyo and the Guards to follow. 

“Additionally, Senator Chuchi, Riyo is pressing charges against you for striking her.”

“Please.” Kozzemi’s lip curled in distaste. “As if a charge like that wouldn’t be dismissed as anything other than nonsense. The girl is quite unstable.”

Despite herself, Siora laughed a bit, shaking her head. “Of course, she’s the unstable one here.” She muttered dryly. 

“Quite. I would think twice about taking her on, Senator.” Kozzemi answered coldly. 

“I hope you know, Senator, that there is footage of you attacking Captain Nickel.” Pirate interrupted, the female Guard speaking up. “And that it has been sent to your rulers.”

“What?” Kozzemi’s gaze snapped to her, faint panic flitting through her eyes. Pirate didn’t say anything more, falling back into silence, smug at finally breaking the harpy’s composure.

“I’m ready to leave.” Riyo murmured to Siora a minute later, holding her bags, having thrown her things together as fast as she could. Siora nodded, offering her a warm smile. 

“Let’s go, then.”

Riyo followed her out of the room, not sparing Kozzemi a second glance as they walked away. That part of my life is over. She resolved silently. I will not let her hurt or control me any longer.

Dragonfly adjusted her blaster, holding it at the ready with the leash of her massiff in her other hand, standing next to her brother as they waited for the signal to bust the ring cartel they’d been watching for days. The massiff’s tail twitched impatiently, eager to be released to its task. 

The signal came a moment later, a series of short, rapid blinks of red light coming from behind one of the neon signs on the building. Immediately, Dragonfly unclipped the lead. 

“Go get ‘em!” Hound ordered, multiple massiffs barreling straight into the building as the doors were pulled open by the two Guards. Hornet and Dragonfly armed their blasters, keeping them set to stun for now and aiming at the doors, watching for any who might escape the initial attack of the massiffs. 

“Alright, move in.” Hound ordered after they’d given the creatures a minute to thin the herd. The Guards flooded into the building, immediately opening fire with stun blasts and quickly rendering several of the cartel members unconscious. 

After getting down two of them, Dragonfly looked around, eyes narrowing upon seeing a man bolting out the back. “Oh, you motherfucker.” She muttered, immediately giving chase, leaping over crates as she pursued the escapee.

The man fled down the street, glancing around frantically for a way to lose her as the chase continued through the winding streets, Dragonfly firing after him until he dashed into a crowded marketplace, forcing her to stop firing as civilians scrambled out of the way of her last couple shots. The man pivoted abruptly as she pursued him, reaching into the crowd and a scream ringing out as he yanked a young Mirialan boy out, pressing a blaster against his head. 

“Better not take another damn step, clone.” The criminal snarled.

Dragonfly’s wings arched, lowering her blaster after a moment and pressing her wrist comm to contact Fox, keeping her voice low so the criminal wouldn’t hear her. “Commander, the cartel leader has taken a civilian child hostage. Permission to shoot to kill?”

“Permission granted.” Fox answered without hesitation.

Dragonfly turned around after cutting the comm, starting to walk back the way she’d come and taking quick, subtle glances over her shoulder. “You probably aren’t that valuable, so we don’t need you.” She called to the criminal. The man stared after her suspiciously as she walked away, not releasing the frightened child yet. Dragonfly placed her blaster back on her back, arms swinging by her sides as she took another glance over her shoulder, seeing the criminal lower the blaster, though still keeping hold of the boy as he started to turn his back to her. Good enough. 

Dragonfly turned sharply on one foot, whipping out a small pistol from under her kama and dashing forward, firing a single shot at the criminal’s head. The man faltered as the shot connected, starting to fall forward as the child screamed at the loud noise. Dragonfly grasped the back of his shirt, yanking him back and scooping up the little boy before letting the criminal drop on the ground. He trembled, tears welling up in the child’s eyes as he started to cry, clinging to her armor. 

Aw, shit. Dragonfly thought, trying to come up with a solution before yanking one of her larger, non-flight feathers out, tickling under the boy’s chin with it. “It’s okay, you’re safe.” She reassured him, cradling the child as she continued tickling him gently with the feather. The boy’s tears slowed somewhat, a watery giggle escaping him, focused on the feather now. 

“That’s right, it’s ok.” Dragonfly nodded, turning so that he couldn’t see the corpse as a short, plump Mirialan woman pushed her way through the crowd, rushing towards them. 

“Khel!” 

Dragonfly carefully passed the boy over when his mother reached them, watching him immediately cling to her. “Thank you.” The woman murmured in relief, clutching her son tightly. “Thank you…”

“Just doing my duty, ma’am.” Dragonfly patted the boy’s head, holding out the feather to him. Khel reached out after a second, taking it with another sniffle. “You were very brave.” Dragonfly told him quietly. “And you did a very good job.”

“Really?” Khel sniffled, looking up at the trooper tearily. 

“Really.” Dragonfly nodded, tapping his nose gently. 

“Let’s take you home, Khel.” The boy’s mother murmured. “Thank you again, trooper.”

Once the boy was gone, Dragonfly hauled up the corpse, striding back the way she came and pressing her comm. “The criminal’s been killed, and the child is safe. I’m on my way back.”

“Copy that. The rest are in custody, we’re beginning our inspection of the building.” 

Dragonfly strode back into the building, the corpse slung over her shoulder. She dumped him unceremoniously against a crate to deal with later, kicking him once. “Piece’a scum.” She muttered.

“Targeting children is such a dirty move.” Hornet grumbled, the others having heard what happened from Fox by now. 

“No kidding.” Dragonfly huffed. “The kid’s alright. I gave him one of my feathers to cheer him up.”

“Good.” Hornet nodded. “Hound wants us to take the massiffs and have them sniff for ‘anything they deem suspicious.’”

Dragonfly nodded in understanding, whistling to call hers to her. The creature came bounding up to her, stubby tail wagging in excitement as it stopped and sat at her feet. Dragonfly picked up its lead, starting to lead it further in. 

“Find.” She instructed. The massiff immediately lowered its head, starting to sniff along the ground. Dragonfly followed it as it tugged against the lead after a moment, picking up a scent and chasing it down the hall.  It stopped at a door, starting to paw at it and whine. 

“Good boy.” Dragonfly praised, scratching his head before opening the door. The massiff tugged forward, following the scent again as they entered a room full of caged animals. She blinked, letting go of the lead as she looked around. “...Is that a fucking unicorn?” She wondered, seeing one, the elegant creature resting its head against the bars of its cage. She shook her head, pressing her comm. “Commander?”

“Yes, Dragonfly?” Fox answered. 

“There’s smuggled animals here, which… includes unicorns.” Dragonfly spotted another behind the first in the cage as she was saying this, the creature looking at her with sad eyes. 

“I’ll be right there.” 

Dragonfly was standing by them when Fox entered the room, having tugged her glove off so they could sniff her hand. “Good grief.” Fox muttered, taking in the number of animals in the room. “This is bigger than we thought.”

“The massiff is really interested in something over there.” Dragonfly pointed to where it was sitting, staring into one of the smaller cages. 

“What’s got your attention, buddy?” Fox asked it, going over to see what it was looking at. The massiff barked in response, snout pressed up against the bars with a look of almost awe in its eyes as it watched the small, red and blue multi-tailed fox curled up inside. “Alright, back off, you’ll scare it.”

The small fox looked up as the cage door was opened, ears twitching slightly but staying pinned against her head. “It’s alright.” Fox murmured, taking off one of his gloves and reaching his hand in, letting the small creature sniff it. “Not going to hurt you.”

The little fox sniffed at his hand, licking his thumb after a minute. “That’s right. Let’s get you outta there.” Fox reached his other hand in, carefully scooping up the little creature into his hands. 

Dragonfly jumped when a loud banging and crashing came from behind them, head whipping around and her eyes widening at the sight of a massive beetle locked in one of the cages, easily larger than both her and Fox. It was clearly furious, large mandibles snapping at them through the bars. 

“...That’s Pialaran.” Fox decided after staring at it for a second. 

“Pialara needs to calm the fuck down.” Dragonfly breathed. 

Fox snorted a bit. “We’ll leave that one for now, until we can find out what the Fae want done with it. The rest, start moving out of here. I’ll send a couple others to help you.”

“Yes sir.” Dragonfly started to retrieve large blankets, covering the unicorns’ cage with them as Fox walked out of the room, still holding the little fox in his hands as it curled up in his palms. It blinked up at him, nine tails twitching as her head rested on his wrist. 

“There, you’re safe now.” Fox murmured, smiling slightly behind his helmet. Pretty little thing, for sure, and friendly it seems. Wonder what it is.

Chapter Text

Audree Moonburst adjusted the box she held, the young Hekeran woman making her way briskly down the Senate hallway, when she was stopped by one of the Guard Commanders. “Excuse me, you’re the Ebbirenan Senator’s assistant, right?” Thorn asked her. 

“I am.” Audree nodded. “How can I help you, Commander?”

“We need to speak to the Senator about something we recently uncovered on a raid.”

“Is it urgent , Commander?” Audree asked after a moment. “Senator Mithrandriel is currently overseeing the preparations for the Ebbirenan King and Queen’s arrival.”

“I’d consider it fairly urgent.” Thorn lowered his voice. “We found captive unicorns in the smuggling ring hideout we searched through two days ago.”

Audree’s eyes widened before she sighed and nodded. “Please follow me.” She told him, continuing to walk down the hallway. 

“Thank you.”

Audree opened the door to the Ebbirenan suite when they reached it, stepping inside. “Senator Mithrandriel?”

Sorcha Mithrandriel looked up from her desk, smiling at her assistant. “Yeah, Audree?”

“Commander Thorn would like to talk to you.” Audree explained. 

“Come in then, Commander.” Sorcha waved him over, gesturing to the chair opposite her. “What can I do for you?”

Thorn sat down, clearing his throat. “A few days ago, we busted a smuggling ring. They had drugs, weapons, and smuggled animals of all types, including Consortium ones. The most concerning, and the reason I’ve come to you directly, were unicorns.”

Sorcha straightened up, frowning. “How many?”

“Five of them, Senator.”

Sorcha hummed thoughtfully. “Audree?”

“Yes, Senator?”

“Go get either Padrias or Pri and see to it the unicorns get home safely, will you? I’d do it myself but I’m afraid I’m swamped.”

“I will, Senator.” Audree nodded, turning to leave. “This way please, Commander.”

“Thank you.” Thorn nodded to Sorcha before getting up, following Audree out of the room. 

“Padrias is our head of security, and Pri is his wife.” Audree explained to him. “She is a veteran of the Cybertronian War.”

“She is?” Thorn asked with slight interest.

Audree nodded. “She was… Remix, if I recall correctly.” 

“We studied Cybertronian war tactics during our strategic training.”

Audree nodded in acknowledgment. “Padrias is currently in…” She thought, clicking her tongue. “I believe he and Pri went to get something to eat, so they’ll be in one of the food places.”

“Right.” Thorn nodded. The two of them checked a couple of the cafes and dining areas to no result before Audree eventually spotted them in one restaurant, leading Thorn up to the table where an Ilfirin man and a Togruta woman were sitting together. 

“Audree.” The man looked up when he heard them approaching. “Everything alright?”

“Senator Mithrandriel needs one of you to oversee the transportation of Consortium animals back to their natural planets, including * aonbheonnaigh.” Audree answered. 

Padrias’ eyes widened slightly. “I see. Right.” He looked at his wife. “Do you want to handle this, Pri? I need to help the Senator finish getting things ready, we only have a couple days left.”

“I can.” Pri nodded, standing and making her way around to kiss Padrias’ cheek. “I’ll see you later.”

“See you later.” Padrias nodded. 

Pri made her way towards Thorn and Audree, inclining her head politely. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Commander.”

“You too.” Thorn nodded sharply. “We’ve got most of the creatures settled in one of the barracks buildings. Our ARF troopers and medics are caring for them as best they can.”

“Most?” Pri wondered. 

Thorn cleared his throat. “There was a Pialaran beetle among the creatures retrieved. Apparently the smugglers weren’t smart enough to ensure it was properly secure.”

“Ah.” Pri frowned slightly. “Perhaps I can help with that after the animals are done.”

“We’ve already got the Fae and a good portion of the GAR clones hunting it alongside our men.” Thorn shook his head. “I don’t think that’ll be necessary. But thank you.”

Pri nodded in acknowledgement of that as they left the restaurant, Thorn starting to lead them out towards the exit. Audree tapped in a comm number as they walked, waiting for it to be answered. 

“Hello?” A woman’s voice came through a moment later. 

“Is this Edraele Elmsong?” Audree asked politely. 

“It is. How can I help you?”

“This is Audree Moonburst, the assistant to Princess Sorcha.” Audree answered. “Recently, a ring of smugglers on Coruscant was broken up, and Consortium animals were discovered that now need to be transported back to their natural planets, including aonbheannaigh.”

Edraele hummed thoughtfully. “I see! How can I help?”

“I will be able to arrange for safe transport back, but it is likely they will need to be rehabilitated until they are suitable to be released.”

“Understood. I’ll have things ready for them, just send me a list.”

“Of course.” Audree nodded. “It should reach you within the next few hours.”

“Thank you.” 

“And there we are.” Pri nodded as the last hover-cage was pushed into the ship, with Audree ticking off the list to ensure all the animals were sent in, the two women standing by Thorn. “They should be sent safely to Ebbirene now.”

“Thank you.” Thorn nodded. “Your assistance is appreciated.”

“If you’ll excuse us, we need to get back to the Ebbirenan suite.” Audree told him, once the ship was gone. 

“Right.” Thorn nodded, suddenly remembering something. “Did you say earlier your King and Queen are coming?”

“They are.” Pri confirmed, nodding. 

“I’ll let Fox know, we’ll increase security… as soon as we catch that damn beetle.” Thorn grimaced. “Why are they coming, if I might ask?”

“That’ll be disclosed after the relevant session.” Audree answered as they started walking back.

“Understood.”

“More security would be appreciated, however.” Pri told him. “This is going to be big and very important.”

Thorn nodded. “I’ll let Commander Fox know.”

After returning to the suite, having picked up food on the way, Audree made her way over to the Ilfirin Senator. “The animals are sorted out, Sorcha, and I got us both food.”

“Thanks, Audree.” Sorcha smiled, putting down her quill as she accepted it. 

“Is there anything you need help with?” Audree asked, starting to eat hers.

Sorcha shook her head. “Just getting things set up. I’ll be done by evening if I keep up my current pace.”

Audree nodded in understanding. “I informed Commander Thorn that the King and Queen were coming. I didn’t explain why, but Pri did accept his offer of extra security.”

“That’ll be good.” Sorcha agreed. “Make sure the Guard are sent our thanks for their cooperation.”

“I will.”

“Excellent. Thank you, Audree.”

“Mikhail?” An Elikalan woman called, looking around as she made her way through the Senate hallways. “Mikhail?”

“Can I help you, ma’am?” Penny asked, noticing her searching. 

“Have you seen a bear cub around?” The Elikalan woman asked, piercing light purple eyes turning to the Captain. 

“Bear cub?” Penny blinked. “No, ma’am. But I can help you look.”

“Thank you.” The woman nodded. “He’s the cub of my bear, and is only three months old. My name is Milana Romanovna.”

“I’m happy to help, Your Majesty.” Penny agreed with a nod, immediately recognizing the name of the visiting Elikalan Queen. Milana started to walk along again, accompanied by Penny as she resumed looking for her pet. After a few minutes of searching, another trooper came towards them down the hall, holding the cub in question. Milana immediately smiled slightly at seeing it, shaking her finger at it a bit. 

“Stop wandering off.” She scolded, taking the tiny cub from the shiny. 

“Thank you, trooper, we were looking for that.” Penny nodded to him. 

Milana held the cub as the tiny creature squeaked at her, turning her attention to the trooper. “Thank you for looking after Mikhail.” She told him, reaching into her bag and holding out a small pouch. “Please take this as my thank you.”

The trooper hesitated, looking at Penny uncertainly, who nodded after a second. “It’s fine, trooper.”

After he took the pouch, Milana resumed stroking the cub. “Can you come to the Elikalan suite tomorrow morning? He seems to have taken a liking to you.”

“I can.” The trooper nodded hesitantly after a second. 

“Good. I will see you tomorrow morning.” Milana nodded, turning and walking off with the little cub. 

“Good work, trooper, back to your post.” Penny told him, turning and following Milana down the hall at a respectful distance. 

“Did you have a fun adventure?” Milana asked the cub, scratching his ears. It bellowed at her happily, snuggling into her arms. Milana paused, looking back at Penny. “What is your name?”

“Captain Penny, ma’am.” Penny answered after considering whether to give her the CT number or her actual name. Milana nodded, reaching into her bag again and pulling out another pouch.

“Thank you for helping me, Captain.” She held it out. 

“Oh- there’s no need for that, ma’am, I’m just doing my job.” Penny shook her head.

“No, I insist.” Milana plopped it into Penny’s hand. 

“Thank you, then, Your Majesty.” Penny nodded in acceptance after a moment, tucking the pouch into one of the pockets on her belt. “Is there anything else I can do for you?”

“Not right now, thank you.” Milana shook her head. 

“I’ll be around if you do need something.” Penny nodded. “Have a good day, ma’am.”

“You as well, Captain.” 

The tiny red, nine-tailed fox padded into the small office, squeaking to get Fox’s attention. He glanced down, leaning over slightly to let her climb up his arm. It settled on his shoulder, squeaking again. 

“Stay quiet, alright? I’ve gotta make a call.” Fox told her, scratching her ear absentmindedly. She squeaked again, watching as he dialed in the code to join the main Commanders’ comm channel, waiting for his ancient communications system to register it and connect. The little fox pressed her snout into his neck, staying curled up on his shoulder as they were greeted with a ping of success, the holograms of several Commanders from various legions appearing. 

“Good news.” He announced. “We finally caught the fucking beetle.”

“Fucking finally.” Kukui instantly grumbled. 

“Thank you all for your help.” Fox told them. “And I’m praying to every deity there is that there are no more of those things on the planet.”

“I’ll say.” Wolffe agreed. “A beetle has no right to be carnivorous.” 

“Or that large.” Fox snorted, stroking the little nine-tailed fox absentmindedly. 

“I might as well start over about our break on Elikala.” Wolffe remarked. 

“Sure, I’ve got time.” Fox shrugged after a quick glance at his to-do box. 

Wolffe started to speak, recounting his legion’s trip to Elikala. Fox listened, continuing to stroke the little creature on his shoulder absentmindedly, until Wolffe had finished telling them about selling the bear fur and their subsequent shopping trip. 

“What did you do with the rest of the credits?” He asked. 

“We kept them to use afterwards.” Wolffe answered. “Why?” 

“While we’re still considered property of the Republic, if those are found on inspection, then the Republic currently has the right to seize them.” Fox explained. “And there’s enough inspection officers with a grudge I don’t doubt they’d take advantage of this. I’d have your Jedi General hold onto them for you, since they can’t pull that crap if it’s believed they’re his.”

Wolffe frowned but nodded. “Understood. I’ll ask him to look after them once the call is over.”

“I’d give the same advice to the rest of you.” Fox added. “If you want to stockpile emergency funds, have the Jedi hold onto them.”

“Thanks for the advice, Fox.” Cody told him.

“Sure.” Fox nodded. “Anyway, go ahead, Wolffe.”

Wolffe resumed telling the story, the rest of the Commanders all listening, Fox drummed his fingers against the desk, continuing to pet the small fox with his other hand as he leaned back slightly in his chair. At this moment, it creaked loudly and tilted back sharply, a shriek being heard from the little fox as she was sent flying off his shoulder, Fox himself tumbling to the floor with a crash.

“FUCK-” Fox swore, using a tendril to catch the little fox before she could hit the wall behind him, disappearing out of the frame of his holocam. 

“Commander Fox?” Nickel appeared in the doorway of the office a minute later, having come to investigate the crash. 

“Fucking chair.” Fox growled, picking himself up. “Piece of shit. Not even worth sending to the scrapyard…”

“Do you want me to get you a rec room chair, sir?”

“No.” Fox shook his head, wings twitching in irritation. “I’m fine, Nickel, you can go.”

“You alright, Fox?” Wolffe asked. 

“Fucking chair threw me across the room. Every time I think I’ve fixed it…”

“Why don’t you just get a new one?” 

“I’m going to fix it.” Fox insisted. “Something has to work eventually.”

“Right, I’ll scatter this hunk of crap across Coruscant.” Kitsune murmured, hauling up the crappy chair, multiple Commanders being gathered in Fox’s office the very next day. “He’ll never find it.”

“Let’s see how long it takes him to notice.” Wolffe muttered with a quiet chuckle, pushing the new one up to the desk. Kitsune yanked the old chair apart, holding all the pieces in her arms as she disappeared from the office. 

“He’s coming, get out before he sees us.” Neyo hissed, keeping watch through the cracked open door. One by one, the Commanders disappeared, the office being empty when Fox opened the door and stepped inside. He looked around, taking the room in for a moment- he could’ve sworn he heard someone in here, but he must’ve imagined it, he decided.

Probably just shinies. 

In the middle of talking to Neyo two days later, Kitsune looked up when the door opened, seeing Fox stalking into the Temple room. 

“Alright, jokesters, where’s my chair?” Fox demanded. 

“In your office.” Kitsune answered. 

“You know bloody well what I’m talking about.”

“When your chair is actively throwing you across the room on a regular basis, Fox, it’s time to get rid of it.” Cody told him.

“Oh, shut up, Little Brother.” Fox snorted. 

“How about you say that when we’re eye to eye?” Cody retorted, then paused. “Oh wait, you can’t.”

“Height isn’t everything.” Fox immediately countered. 

“You would say that, considering you don’t have much of it.”

“You literally have an inch and a half over me. I don’t know what you’re carrying on about.”

“Even Kitsune is taller than you.” Cody dismissed.

“Oi, what the fuck is that meant to mean?!” Kitsune sounded offended, whipping around to glare at Cody. Fox snorted, straight face cracking as he started to laugh. “Motherfucker…” Kitsune grumbled, looking like she was going to stab through Cody with her glare. 

Cody started to laugh too, unable to help himself at Kitsune’s indignant expression. “Yeah, you’re right, that was too low a blow to him.”

“I am going to KILL YOU-” Kitsune launched herself at Cody. He yelped, still laughing as she knocked him over, Gree and Monkk entering the room to this a couple minutes later. 

“Let me go!” Kitsune immediately demanded when tendrils lifted her up off of Cody, kicking at the air as he got up. 

“Calm down, Kitsune.” Gree rumbled. “We all know you’d win in a fight. No need to prove it.”

Kitsune hissed, thrashing more as Cody took her from Gree’s tendrils, now holding her in his arms. “I’m gonna bite your eyes out!” 

“Cody, you’re playing with fire here.” Neyo warned, with the tone of someone who spoke from personal experience. 

Kitsune hissed, trying to free herself from her larger brother’s embrace as Cody’s shoulder was tapped by Monkk. “Put her down, Cody.” 

Cody reluctantly did, Kitsune immediately kicking him in the shin once she was on the ground. “Ow!” Cody protested, stumbling back a couple steps. 

“All joking aside, thank you for the new chair.” Fox told the others with a chuckle.

“It’s no trouble.” Neyo dismissed, leaning back in his seat.

“Why don’t you stick around for a bit?” Gree asked. “It’s been a while since we were all in one place.”

“I can spare a little time.” Fox agreed after a glance at his comm, taking a seat. 

“What’s going on at the Senate?” Kitsune wondered, looking vaguely disgruntled as Gree scooped her up but not protesting. 

“I don’t know yet.” Fox admitted. “The relevant session is tomorrow, I intend to post myself inside the dome and find out.”

“Is there a way for us to be able to see it?” Cody asked.

“It’s going to get live-streamed to headquarters.” Fox answered.

“Can we be there in person by wearing Guard armor?” Monkk asked. Fox raised an eyebrow slightly.

“I mean, I suppose so. Don’t think any of my troopers would complain about not having to guard the dome. But if you do that, you’re on duty for the whole thing.”

“That’s fine.” Monkk nodded.

“Anyone else want in on Monkk’s crazy plan?” Fox asked. 

“Why not?” Kitsune shrugged after a second of contemplation. 

“I’ll go.” Cody agreed.

“Me as well.” Gree nodded. 

“I’m going with General Windu.” Neyo shook his head. “Ponds didn’t want to. Hates attending the Senate. You lot have fun with that, though.” 

Elisen squeezed her son’s shoulder as they entered the Senate chamber, the two entering the Coilean pod. Reluvethel offered her a faint smile in response, the Coilean King dressed all in black and his hair cut short in mourning, turning his attention to the Senate as Elisen took a seat beside him, her hair cut short to her shoulders and covered by a black veil. The session began with the usual trifles, passing sluggishly until finally the Ebbirenan pod rose to the center of the room. 

“Senators, I address you on behalf of the rulers of the Consortium.” Queen Eloise’s voice echoed out over the chamber. “After much deliberation, it has been decided that the Consortium will be entering into the war against the Separatists. Primarily in defense of our own territories, after the attempted invasion of Ciona and a planned attempt on Koradura, but we will lend our military support as needed to the clone army and their Jedi as well.”

Murmurs started around the Senate, the politicians exchanging hurried glances and whispers. Reluvethel took a deep breath, his pod rising to join Eloise’s. “We are aware that there are many of you here who lend support or have other ties to the Separatists.” He addressed the Senate. “Do not think we have forgotten my daughter’s death at their hands. Princess Thaola, her Jedi Master, and the clones they commanded will have justice for their deaths. That is a promise.”

“King Reluvethel, do you not think that this is a-” Palpatine started sympathetically, though being quickly cut off by the woman sitting next to the Coilean King. 

“I hope, Chancellor Palpatine, that you aren’t going to tell my son that his words are unreasonable, or an overreaction.” Her voice was soft, though her lips were pursed and her expression somber. 

“No, no, of course not.” Palpatine backtracked. 

“Good.” Elisen fell silent again, squeezing her son’s arm gently. 

“Consider this a warning, to any who would attempt to invade us.” Eloise’s voice projected over the chamber again. “We are not to be trifled with. And we are ready.”

Chapter Text

“You got your assignment?” The dark skinned human woman, Lailta Keentri, asked her friend. 

“I do.” Raya Shan nodded. “I’ve been assigned as CMO of the hundred and eighty-seventh. My first command.” She puffed up slightly, seeming proud of herself. “Apparently, they were never assigned one before. Hopefully things will be mostly in order though, the clone medics seem capable.”

Lailta frowned slightly. “..You sure it’s CMO?”

“I got the transfer order from the Chancellor himself.” Raya nodded. “I’ve been waiting for a medical post to open up for years now, I’m more than qualified.”

“Did you discuss this with the hundred eighty-seventh General?” Lailta had an odd expression on her face as the two women headed towards the ship waiting for them.

“Not personally.” Raya answered. “I was told everything was already arranged. Everything seems in order on my end.” 

“Do you mind delaying our departure, trooper?” Lailta poked her head into the cockpit after Raya had left the ship, currently docked in the 187th landing bay. “I get the feeling I need to stop Major Shan from making a big mistake. I will be as fast as possible.”

“Yes, Admiral.” The pilot nodded. 

Lailta hurried off the ship, chasing quickly after Raya and catching her wrist to stop her in her tracks. Raya looked back at her in surprise, arching an eyebrow. “What’s the matter?”

“Are you intending to go meet General Windu first?” Lailta asked her. 

“I was heading towards medbay, just to get a look at things.” Raya admitted. “But you’re right, I’d better do that first.”

“I’ll accompany you.” Lailta decided. “To give some apparently much needed tips.”

“I suppose I was a little overenthusiastic.” Raya agreed sheepishly, changing direction. 

“First, I wouldn’t assume your appointment as supposedly CMO is known by General Windu.”

Raya frowned slightly. “Why wouldn’t it be? He should’ve received the information at the same time I received my transfer order, that’s how it’s always been in the past.”

“Second, you should not trust the Chancellor.”

“Okay…”

“I am doubtful about your placement because from what I have read, a trooper called Scalpel is in position as CMO in the hundred eighty-seventh.”

“..I found no mention of that.” Raya’s frown deepened. “I researched the assignment beforehand, the eighty-seventh had no listed CMO.” 

Lailta’s lips pursed as she thought that over, the two women entering the Command Deck. 

“Maybe there is something odd going on.” Raya admitted quietly before looking around, spotting the Jedi General speaking with a couple Commanders after a quick scan of the deck. 

“General Windu, Commanders?” Lailta spoke up. Windu turned to face them after a second.

“Yes, can I help you?”

Lailta tilted her head slightly towards Raya as she answered. “I am Admiral Lailta Keentri, not for the hundred eighty-seventh however. My fellow officer, Raya Shan, has been assigned to your legion as a… CMO, by the Chancellor, with the belief that you are aware of this?”

“I was not.” Windu answered, raising one eyebrow slightly, looking at the Commanders. “Were either of you informed of this?”

“We weren’t, General.” Ponds answered after sharing a look with Neyo. 

“Surely the Chancellor’s aware we already have one.” Neyo tilted his head skeptically. 

“According to Major Shan, the information on your CMO had been erased when she researched the posting.”

“Thank you for bringing that to our attention.” Windu frowned. “I will look into it. I’m afraid we’re in no need of a new CMO, Major Shan, and I’m sorry that your time has been wasted.”

Raya nodded slightly. “I’m sorry for the confusion.” She responded. Lailta squeezed her arm, gently tugging at it, the two women making their way out of the Command Deck again. 

“I’m sure General Koon wouldn’t mind extra help.” Lailta told her quietly. “If I explain, I’m certain he’ll request you for the one hundred and fourth. Reports label him as being very reasonable.”

“I hope so.” Raya sighed. “Otherwise I’ll be floating again for a while.” 

“Thank you for coming, Commander Daikon.” Windu told the Commander as he left the shuttle.

“Glad to, sir.” Daikon nodded sharply. “Is Scalpel ready?”

“He is.” Windu confirmed. 

“I’ll speak with you frankly, sir.” Daikon said after a moment. “This is going to be a very delicate process to get through safely. I don’t care if the ship is burning down around us, we’re not to be disturbed until I say.”

“Understood.” Windu nodded. “I will ensure you aren’t distracted. Any medical issues will be dealt with by the other medics and by Ratchet Merkoh, Aurora’s cybernetics expert.”

“Good.” Daikon agreed. “I’ll reach out to Ponds or Neyo when we need something.”

Windu led Daikon out of the hangar bay and towards the room where Scalpel had been placed. “I’ll see you in a couple days, General.” Daikon told him once they’d stopped outside the door. Windu nodded, turning and striding away as Daikon knocked once on the door before pushing it open, stepping inside and closing it behind him. 

“Hello, Scalpel.” He smiled slightly at the younger medic, half focused on him as his gaze swept critically over the room. Doing this at the Temple would’ve been preferable, with how dreary the warship accommodations were, but they’d spruced it up enough. It’d have to do.

Scalpel managed a small smile, wings twitching slightly nervously. “Hello.”

“No need to worry.” Daikon reassured him. “Do you want to talk about it at all beforehand?”

“I think I’d rather get it over with.” Scalpel admitted. 

“That’s what we’ll do then.” Daikon nodded. “If you’ve got your sedative ready, go ahead and take that now. It’ll be over when you wake up.”

Scalpel picked up a syringe from its case, injecting himself with it as Daikon sat by him, wrapping his arm around his smaller brother’s shoulders and rumbling reassuringly. After a minute, Scalpel was out, eyes closing as his head rested on Daikon’s shoulder. 

“Sleep soundly, little brother.” Daikon murmured, wrapping his wings around Scalpel and closing his eyes to concentrate. He’d done a couple of these transformations now, but it still wasn’t the easiest bit of magic to perform. 

When Scalpel started stirring hours later, his wings, back, and legs ached fiercely. He growled groggily upon scenting another Alpha so close by, still pulled against Daikon. 

“Shh.” Daikon scolded gently, tugging a bit on their sibling bond to remind him he wasn’t a threat. “No need to get territorial.”

Scalpel squirmed slightly when something smacked him, one of his new tendrils waving wildly while the rest seemed to be trying to knot themselves together, moving as if they possessed minds of their own. 

“It’ll be a while before you can control those properly.” Daikon explained quietly. “Don’t worry.”

Scalpel nodded tiredly, curling up more to his older brother, still aching. 

“Are you hungry, or do you want to just go back to sleep?”

“Go to sleep.” Scalpel yawned slightly. 

“Rest, then.” Daikon nodded, nuzzling the still smaller clone gently. “I’ll be right here.” 

“General Koon?” Lailta spoke up, approaching the Kel’Dor as he talked to Commander Wolffe. 

“Yes, Admiral?” Plo answered, turning his attention to her. Lailta paused, picking her words carefully. 

“Might I request that you please talk to your troopers? It is not all of them, but I have noticed that most do not seem… pleased to have me and Major Shan here, and I do not wish for any future, more serious conflicts.”

“They haven’t been giving you trouble, have they?” Wolffe questioned. Lailta hesitated this time, thinking over her answer to that. 

“Some remarks I have heard have been very… unprofessional.”

“Right.” Wolffe cleared his throat, quickly getting her meaning. “I’m by no means excusing anything, Admiral, but I can offer some explanation in that apart from myself, the other Abregado survivors, and my fellow Commanders, nearly every trooper in this legion is basically brand new off Kamino. Our mission to Ciona was their first bit of action, for most of them. They haven’t had any opportunity to interact with anyone other than trainers or Kaminoans. I’ll speak with them, of course, but be warned there will be some adjustment still while they’re learning what’s acceptable.”

Lailta nodded. “That is fine.”

“As to any… standoffishness, you might experience, I’m afraid I’ll have to give you the same explanation. Trainer Mulan and Trainer Taeth were alright, but most of our trainers weren’t  exactly outstanding representatives of their races.” Wolffe explained ruefully. “And General Ti was assigned too late to have any real influence on the worldview of this lot. I’m afraid they’ll take a little time to come around.” Wolffe didn’t seem to notice the shadow of concern that passed over Plo’s expression as he said this. 

“As long as it hopefully stops soon.” Lailta agreed. 

“Commander Wolffe and I will speak with them.” Plo reassured her. Lailta nodded, thanking them politely before leaving the Command Deck. Raya was waiting for her down the hall, offering her friend a small smile. 

“How did it go?”

“General Koon and Commander Wolffe have agreed to talk to the troopers.” Lailta told her. 

“Oh, good.” Raya nodded. “I’m glad they’re handling it.”

“So hopefully there should be no more of that, soon.”

“Hopefully.” Raya agreed. “My shift doesn’t start for another half hour, you want to go get something to eat?”

“That sounds good.” Lailta nodded with a small smile. The two women started to walk together towards the dining hall, talking as they went. “I’m slightly surprised at how young the CMO is. He looks only nineteen.”

“I was too.” Raya agreed. “But he seems to know what he’s doing pretty well.”

Lailta nodded. “He does.” She agreed. “How are you settling in there? Are the medics treating you well?”

“I’ve encountered the same issues you have.” Raya admitted. “But I’ve been getting along fine with Commander Squirrel, and there’s a couple medics who seem more experienced who have been easy enough to work with. I imagine it’ll just take time, it’s only been a few days.”

“Agreed. The other Commanders are pleasant enough, as well as the General’s daughter.” Lailta looked down when a little body smashed into her legs, seeing one of the Garavian Wild Wolf pups. Raya laughed, bending down to scratch its head. 

“These little guys have certainly been a highlight.”

Lailta scooped up the pup, briefly checking its gender. “This one must be Princess.” She stated, scratching the pup’s ears. 

“The one called Biter got into medbay yesterday. Ran around nipping at our heels for hours.”

“They’re going to be quite massive, once they’re adults.” 

“Definitely.” Raya nodded. Lailta planted a kiss on Princess’ little head, then put her down. The two women made their way into the dining hall, Princess still trailing after them. Lailta glanced over when she heard a call, eyes landing on a medic in partially orange, partially gray armor. 

“You two can come sit over here.” He offered once he’d gotten their attention, gesturing to the empty spots next to him. 

“Thank you.” Lailta nodded, walking over. “How has your day been, Capybara?”

“Uneventful.” Capybara answered. “Might have time to finally finish fixing up this mess tonight.” He gestured to his armor. Lailta’s lips twitched, nodding as she reached down to pick up Princess, setting the pup in her lap. “How about you two?” Capybara inquired. 

“One of my sisters is coming to visit when we get back to Coruscant. My ‘twin.’”

Capybara tilted his head slightly. “Why the quotation marks?”

“I’m adopted. My family, or clan rather, are all Togrutas.”

“Oh, I see!” Capybara nodded. “How many sisters do you have, then?”

“Eight sisters, and four brothers.” Lailta answered. 

“I can’t imagine having that many siblings.” Raya chuckled ruefully. “I’m an only child.”

“It’s definitely chaotic.” Lailta smiled slightly. “That’s not even counting how many cousins I have. Going home is very eventful.”

“I bet.” Raya laughed. 

“I wasn’t treated much differently than my siblings growing up, except Mama and Ba made sure everyone was more careful with me due to me being human. Everything else though, I did what they did.”

“Does that mean you went and killed an Akul, then?”

“A bit later, when I was sixteen, yes.” Lailta nodded. “Mama did not like the idea of me facing one at nine years old.”

“Understandable.”

Lailta glanced at Capybara when he stood up. “Getting back to work?” She asked. He nodded. 

“Gotta finish out my shift. It was nice talking to you though, Admiral.”

“It was nice talking to you as well.” Lailta stated, scratching Princess’ ears. 

“Major Shan.” Capybara nodded to Raya as well before walking away, leaving the two women alone to finish their lunch. 

Chapter Text

“‘Soka!” Lohsa dashed down the ramp, barreling straight into her twin as she all but tackled her. 

“Lohsa!” Ahsoka squealed, immediately hugging her tightly. “I missed you!”

Lohsa nuzzled her sister furiously, giggling and purring as they embraced. 

“Master said you were sick. But you’re ok now?” Ahsoka sniffed her a bit, checking for any lingering smells of illness. 

“I’m all better.” Lohsa nodded in confirmation. 

“Good.” Ahsoka nuzzled her. “Let’s go play!”

Lohsa giggled as she was dragged off, chasing after Ahsoka happily. “Let’s play tag!” Ahsoka declared. 

“Yeah!” Lohsa agreed cheerfully, immediately smacking Ahsoka’s shoulder and dashing past her. “Tag, you’re it!” 

Ahsoka giggled furiously, immediately zooming after her down the hall. The two Togrutas zipped down the corridors, teasing each other and laughing the whole time as they raced around corners. 

“Tag!” Ahsoka declared upon catching up, smacking Lohsa on the shoulder with a giggle. 

“Drat!” Lohsa huffed, pouting a bit before giggling too. 

“Guess you gotta be faster.” Ahsoka grinned before bolting, Lohsa immediately chasing after her. The two pelted around the corner, passing a group of three clones standing in the hallway. Lohsa got five feet past them before skidding to a halt, head whipping around to stare at them. Ahsoka stopped at the end of the hallway, looking back at her and pouting. “Why’d you stop?” She complained. 

Lohsa blinked, studying the three clones. “You said the five-oh-first had no Alphas.”

“No, just Kix.” Ahsoka trotted back over to her. “Why?”

“Those three have tendrils.”

“Huh?” Ahsoka craned her neck slightly, looking back at the group. “Oh!”

“Let’s sneak attack ‘em!”

Ahsoka grinned, nodding vigorously as she dropped her voice down to a whisper. “We’ll have to be really, really quiet!”

Zipping her mouth shut and pretending to throw away the key, Lohsa started to creep towards the three Kashgar. Ahsoka snuck after her, targeting the one who had his back towards them. 

“..You know the Padawans are stalking you now, Vill, right?” Bow said quietly to the other Alpha after a second, plainly seeing the two very sneaky Togrutas. 

“Shh, they don’t have to know that.” Vill whispered, pretending not to notice them. Bow snorted quietly, shaking his head as Vill was tackled by the two cubs a few seconds later. “Ack!” Vill ‘stumbled’ forward as they hung off his shoulders, falling to his knees and pretending to try and keep himself up under their weight before collapsing to the floor dramatically. 

“Aha!” Ahsoka grinned triumphantly, the two immediately pinning him down by sitting on his back. “We got you!”

“Gah-” Vill grunted, trying to push himself up but flopping back down dramatically after managing one inch, pretending as though they were too heavy for him to dislodge.

“You’re not going anywhere!” Ahsoka giggled, grinning at her twin. Vill sighed in defeat, giving up. 

“You’ve got me.”

“We’re great hunters!” Ahsoka purred smugly, Lohsa giggling and nodding agreement before yawning, tiredness abruptly sweeping over her. 

“Little hunter’s sleepy, eh?” Voca, the third Alpha, reached down, plucking her up off Vill’s back. Lohsa immediately snuggled into his arms, purring sleepily as she curled up. “There you go, settle in.” Voca chuckled. Bow leaned against the wall with an amused expression, watching as Vill suddenly ‘regained’ his energy, gently knocking Ahsoka off his back as he started to get up and provoking an indignant screech from the Togruta. 

“I’m gonna get you.” Vill growled playfully, reaching for her. 

“Nooo!” Ahsoka protested, scrambling out of reach and tackling him again, trying to wrestle him back to the floor. Vill grunted, pretending to try and grab her as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders, hanging off him again. Vill staggered, pretending she was dragging him down again as she nipped at his shoulder with a playful growl. Succeeding in knocking him down once again, Ahsoka plopped herself back down on his back. “Not getting away this time!”

Vill’s lips twitched slightly at hearing a yawn almost immediately following this statement, Voca bending down to scoop up the other cub. 

“Perhaps we should take them back to the Generals.” Bow suggested, pushing off the wall. 

“Think they’re on the Command Deck.” Voca nodded, starting in that direction as Vill jumped to his feet. “Though, pretty sure it’s just Commander Cody here from the two-twelfth. Last I heard he was here to help Rex sort some stuff out.”

“Tomato, tomahto.” Bow dismissed, waving a hand. 

“Wonder what he’s here about.” Vill remarked, the three walking towards the Command Deck with the two sleepy Togrutas in Voca’s arms. 

“Who knows?” Voca shrugged. 

“Maybe we’ll find out when we get there.” Bow nodded. Vill strode onto the Command Deck first, followed by the other two. 

“General Skywalker?”

“Yes?” Anakin looked up, in the middle of talking to Cody and Rex. Vill gestured to the Padawans Voca was holding. 

“We came to return those two to you.”

“Wore themselves out, did they?” Anakin laughed, reaching out to take Ahsoka after passing Lohsa over to Cody. “Thank you.”

Voca nodded, the three turning to leave the Command Deck. “Hold on a second!” Rex ordered abruptly. 

“Yeah?” Bow looked over his shoulder. 

“You three are Alphas. When the hell did you get here?!” Rex demanded. “We’ve been running this place under the assumption that Kix and Appo were the only ones!”

“We’ve been here all this time.” Vill sounded slightly confused. “Didn’t you know?”

“No, we didn’t.” Anakin answered. 

“That’s why Rex has been running the legion almost single-handedly.” Cody added dryly. “Appo was demoted and the Kaminoans have blocked every attempt to reinstate him, though they won’t tell us why.”