Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“...maybe by the time you wake, they’ll be back. All of ‘em, so I hear. Maybe I’ll get to meet this Crosshair guy. Sounds like a bundle of laughs, that one, but hey, you’re not exactly a joker yourself.”

Phee Genoa was chatting away to no one in particular, it seemed. As Tech opened his eyes, eyelids weighing heavy, he found her pouring herself a cup of caf in the corner of the room. It was a medbay of sorts, nothing state of the art. A monitor bleeped rhythmically, nearby, but he couldn’t turn to look. He was on Pabu, it seemed, it’s warmth a welcome sensation in comparison to the patchy, isolating memories of Eriadu. As his consciousness slipped away alone in the snow, he had assumed they were his last moments of awareness.

“Omega wanted ya to have this, she and Wrecker wanted it to be safe in case anything-” Phee trailed off, staring into the blank red eyes of the well-loved black tooka doll, “Ugly old thing, ain’t it?”

She turned to look at him as if he would respond, eyes widening at the sight of him awake and watching her.

“Oh, would you look at that,” that familiar smirk returned to her face, visible despite his unfocused vision, “Woken by the sound of my voice, huh?”

He tried to respond but his words came out as nothing more than a quiet groan. He tried to push himself up, but his entire body felt weighed down.

“Hey, hey, easy there, Tech,” Phee’s smirk dropped, dark eyes suddenly clouded with concern as she noticed the panic in his. Lula was discarded immediately as she took a step closer, “Not so fast, you’re gonna have to take it easy for once, do what I tell ya.”

Tech grunted as he disregarded her completely, his agitation only increasing. Phee rolled her eyes.

“You can’t calculate your way out of this one,” she shook her head, “And you’re stuck with me nursing you back to health alongside the medical droids, aren’t you a lucky one?”

He grunted again, closing his eyes.

“I know, you can barely contain your excitement,” Phee sat beside the bed, reaching for his hand, “Good to see you conscious, Brown Eyes. Gotta admit you scared me for a while.”

His hand twitched as she gave it a squeeze, but he was drifting off again too quickly for him to truly celebrate such an achievement. As the world faded around him once more, he was sure he felt her lips touch his hand.

Chapter Text

Why was someone touching his hair? It was hardly the situation to be making himself look presentable, unless his death had been deemed inevitable. Apparently, it was customary to dress the dead in formal attire, comb their hair and make them appear as if they were merely sleeping, although he was certain such a ritual had never been undertaken for a clone killed in battle. Perhaps recent analysis hadn’t been favourable towards his survival, and he was being prepared for the inevitable outcome.

“Dad wanted me to bring you this, Auntie Phee,” light footsteps entered the medbay, “You didn’t come to breakfast.”

“Yeah, well, can’t leave this one on his own,” he could hear the smirk in her voice, “Thank you, sweetheart.”

“Is he alright?”

“Woke up for a couple minutes yesterday,” it was Phee touching his hair, her voice was so close, “It’s a good sign, that droid was rambling on about the chances of him never- well, I expect he’s never followed expectations before.”

“Where’s Lula? Didn’t Omega leave her for him?”

“That old thing?” Phee snorted, the bunk shifting as she got to her feet. He found he missed the feeling of her tousling his hair once she stopped, “Have you smelled it? Tech doesn’t need that invading his space.”

“Then I’ll wash her,” Lyana laughed, “Maybe something familiar will help him.”

“I think you’re right,” Phee’s voice softened, “Tell Shep thanks for me, alright?

Lyana’s light footsteps pattered away, he assumed with Lula in tow, but lingered in the doorway, “They’ve been gone a while, Phee.”

“They know what they’re doing,” Phee spoke calmly, “Smarter than they look, even without Tech, and besides, Omega’s learned from the best.”

Lyana giggled, and her footsteps faded away completely. The smell of eggs and cooked meat wafted across the room, drawing attention to his own parched throat. Finally, the weights on his eyes lifted.

“Hungry?” Phee raised an eyebrow, leaning back in the chair by his bunk as she picked at the food on her plate, “Sorry, Brown Eyes, I think your breakfast is going direct into your veins right now.”

“Act-actually-” was the only word he managed to speak, although it was barely audible. He squeezed his eyes shut at the pain in his throat.

“He speaks,” Phee laughed, putting the plate aside, “Took you long enough.”

She knelt down to his eye level and reached for his hand, squeezing it, “Feeling any better?”

He was certainly more aware than we was, he could feel the needle in his hand, the mask over his mouth and nose, something rigid attached to his back. There was a pressure in his head, perhaps a tight dressing wrapped around his temples. He surely couldn’t have gotten away without at least a blow to the head with such a fall.

“You need water,” Phee gave his hand another squeeze before letting go, “That’ll help-”

“Ah! CT-9902, I see you’re-”

“How many times?” Phee sighed in exasperation, “We don’t use numbers around here, metalhead. It’s Tech.”

“My apologies, Mistress Genoa,” that droid’s voice was familiar, “CT- I mean, Tech has never made a complaint before.”

“He might not, but I am,” Phee folded her arms. She glanced at Tech, “I hear you and AZI go way back.”

Tech fought to open his eyes again, only to be blinded by AZI’s scanning light running across him.

“It is good to see you again, Master Tech,” the droid hovered above him, just a little too close. Phee snickered at the name, “Mistress Cid thought you were never coming back, that you all had abandoned me. I was sure that Omega would never do such a thing, although I suspect the rest of you may have other ideas. But then-”

“Get to the point,” Phee shook her head, pouring some water into a cup.

“I am glad to see you awake, and that you are regaining awareness,” AZI continued unphased, “There was a high likelihood you would remain in a vegetative state after a fall such as yours. There is still a high likelihood that you may never walk again, however, given the fractured vertebra. As humans often say, time will tell.”

“I wouldn’t underestimate ol’ Brown Eyes,” Phee chuckled, “He has a habit of exceeding expectations.”

“I would agree,” AZI twirled on the spot, “We surely would have perished in the ruins of Tipoca City without Master Tech’s quick thinking. I nearly perished myself, if CT-9904 had not rescued myself and Omega, not that my memory banks retained such an event.”

“Thank the stars you aren’t talkin’ right now,” Phee shook her head at Tech, although she appeared amused, “I wouldn’t get a word in.”

“I advise you be patient,” AZI spoke cautiously as he turned to Phee, “Master Tech has been in a deep comatose state, the process of waking from which is gradual, even for an individual with an enhanced mind such as himself.”

“I’ve got all the time in the world to wait, don’t you worry,” Phee’s voice was fading, the medical bay melting away into darkness. The weights were dragging him down again, forcing his eyes to close. The cup of water went untouched.

Chapter Text

Uncomfortable was an understatement, frustration was increasing.

He had so many questions, his memory of recent events non-existent. He remembered a fall, an impact, the cold. He remembered pain and numbness and confusion. The panic he felt at his first awakening had eased, replaced instead with a desperation for normality. He wanted answers, he wanted his body back, he wanted his squad.

“What’s up with you?” Phee’s smirk had quickly lost its charm. Did everything really require humour? He wasn’t finding any of his current situation remotely amusing, he just wished he could voice that thought. Instead, his turmoil reached boiling point, ready to explode out of his useless, unresponsive body. And all she was doing was taunting him.

“Tech?”

He had managed to turn his head away, the opposite wall and window a small change of scenery at least. Did she really have nothing better to do than watch him lay there, helpless? Perhaps it was a source of entertainment. Even for a moment, he desperately wanted to be-

“A-alone,” his voice was barely a croak.

“What was that?” Phee took a step closer, only receiving an agitated grumble in response. She let out a sigh, “I’m sorry, Tech. I get it, I do. I’m not enjoying myself, seeing you like this. Believe it or not, I’d rather you be talking my ear off about whatever’s on your mind. If I feel that way about it, I don’t want to imagine how it must be for you.”

Slowly, he turned his head to face her again. His eyes were stinging, he felt something hot trickle down his face.

“Hang in there, Brown Eyes,” she reached for his hand, and to her surprise he took hers first, “Ha! See? Baby steps, you’ll be back on your feet and chatting away in no time at all.”

He finally cracked a smile, attempting to squeeze her hand with limited success. Phee squeezed his hand back with a chuckle, before leaning over him to wipe his tear away.

“Let me get you that water you never drank,” she patted his hand, “AZI says you can sit up for a little while, maybe that’ll help.”

He watched as she gathered all the pillows in the room, including all the extras in the storage crates.

“You’re pumped full of the good stuff, so this shouldn’t hurt a bit,” Phee slid her arm beneath his shoulders, supporting his head as she carefully hauled him up. Whatever the “good stuff” was, it wasn’t quite good enough, as Tech squeezed his eyes shut with a pained groan.

“Sorry, sorry,” Phee sounded panicked, quickly placing pillows for him to rest on with her free hand, “Just a few more seconds. A few more seconds, that’s it.”

She propped him up cautiously against the pillows, watching him with concern, “Alright?”

With a wince, Tech gave a brief nod, leaning back onto the soft pillows. He breathed slowly, keeping his eyes closed.

“Take a minute after all that excitement,” Phee patted his shoulder and turned to fill up another cup of water.

“Cross...Crosshair,” Tech forced out the words, “Crosshair?”

“Crosshair? That guy the others are off saving?” Phee approached the bunk as Tech gave a single nod, “What about him?”

“Where-” he frowned, “Why-What, what happened?”

“You had quite the fall, I’m told,” Phee carefully helped him to drink, a smile playing on her lips, “But if anyone was gonna find a way to survive, it’d be you, wouldn’t it?”

Tech was too focused on drinking, on the cool water soothing his dry throat, to respond. She was lightly tousling his hair again, as she supported his head. If he could, he would have gently reminded her that his neck muscles appeared to be in working order.

“The others went back for ya, although they weren’t in the best condition themselves. Crashed a railcar or something. Came back here all beat up, barely gave ‘emselves time to recover before heading out again to go after this Crosshair guy. Left you in my capable hands.”

He gave her a questioning look.

“You’ve been out a couple weeks, it’s lucky you’re even breathin’ now. Droid said somethin’ about broken vertebrae, skull fracture, you’ve really been through it. You gotta give yourself time, alright? And I gotta make the most of being the talkative one in this relationship while it lasts,” Phee chuckled, “Ah, well enough to raise an eyebrow, I see? Still got the sass, I like it. Priorities.”

He smirked crookedly, grunting out a laugh. His eyelids were growing heavy.

“Boring you already?” Phee grinned wickedly, but her demeanour changed, fading away to a gentle tenderness, “Want someone to lean on?”

Without even answering, Tech began to doze off, beginning to droop onto her shoulder. Her soft laugh rumbled through her chest as she put an arm around him, supporting his weight. Her fingers tangled into his hair as he drifted away, her lips lightly touching his temple.

“Sweet dreams, Brown Eyes.”

Chapter Text

“I would prepare him for the high likelihood that the remainder of Clone Force 99 have perished on their mission,” AZI-3's voice sounded far too cheerful for such pessimism, “It has been weeks.”

“I’d like to see you do it quicker,” Phee muttered, “You tell him that if you want, metalhead, but good luck convincing him.”

“Alive.”

Both Phee and the droid turned to face Tech, having just opened his eyes. Phee looked at AZI triumphantly.

“Master Tech-”

“Alive,” Tech repeated, attempting to push himself up. He grunted in frustration as his arms failed to respond sufficiently. Within a few seconds, his head hit the bunk as he struggled to take his own weight.

“Y’know, the sooner you realise you can’t force yourself to make a miraculous recovery, the sooner you might actually make some progress,” Phee sat on the bed, eyebrow raised, “But by my calculations, it’ll take a good few more attempts for that to process in that big brain of yours.”

Tech scowled and looked away. She was right, he of course knew his body needed time, it certainly would not recover as fast as he would like. She did not, however, understand how it felt to barely grasp at any control of your own body, to lose the ability to communicate even the most basic of needs. He was wasting away in a medical bay, while his brothers and sister, his squad, could well be getting themselves killed out there. He was aware of those odds also, but he didn’t need AZI to vocalise them.

A sharp scratch on his neck made him flinch, and he was suddenly aware of AZI hovering above him.

“Apologies, Master Tech. I usually administer your pain relief and muscle stimulants while you are asleep,” AZI’s blank, unmoving face focused on his, “With your lack of movement it is imperative we prevent an excessive loss of muscular tissue, although that is an inevitable outcome to a degree. The pain relief is simply to keep you at optimum comfort.”

“Give him some space, metalhead,” Phee gave the droid a nudge, “Shall we get ya sat up again, Brown Eyes?”

A small nod was all he could manage, and within seconds he was in her arms again. He could only hope he wasn’t too heavy for her, although he likely would have lost significant mass since his fall. She held him securely, carefully lowering him back onto the pillows. There was a pleasant odor about her, warm, earthy, and just a little hint of some kind of spice.

“Hey now, ask me to dinner first,” Phee chuckled, and his mind snapped back to reality. It appeared in the short moment she held him; he had wrapped an arm around her as if in an embrace. His face felt hot as he allowed his arm to fall limp at his side suddenly, and her grin only grew, “Caught in the act, huh? Look at you, blushing bright red.”

He couldn’t meet her eyes, wishing desperately for the heat in his face to dissipate.

“S’alright,” Phee squeezing his shoulder made him realised she had her arm around him, she was sat beside him on the bunk, “I know you’re crazy about me really.”

His eyes darted around, unsure where to look. He couldn’t say he didn’t find the feeling of her beside him somewhat pleasant, but simultaneously his mind was beginning to race. What did this mean, why was she so close? Was this what the others were teasing him about, their constant comments referencing Phee and himself? They all look pleasure in his confusion, his discomfort and general obliviousness to something that was seemingly so obvious to everyone but him. The thoughts built, and built, combining with all his confusion and frustration about his current predicament, until.

“Off,” he gasped out the word, his chest felt tight, his own brain dizzying himself. He needed his squad; they alone were the best ones to assist in such situations. While he prided himself on his ability to think clearly under pressure, on occasion this wasn’t quite the case. It was usually smaller things, built up frustrations, more trivial matters that triggered what he called shutdowns, but Crosshair had often remarked as tantrums, in his own affectionate way. Crosshair had been the best one to handle it, though. Beneath his sharp tongue and at times cruel remarks was a loyal, attentive man that stopped at nothing to defend his squad.

Crosshair was the one who had thrown and received the most punches defending him, more often than not when he had unwittingly pushed the regs too far. Hunter especially had done his best to coach him on learning when to stop, but Crosshair knew Tech too well. When you get Tech started, he will focus on nothing else unless he is stopped. When dealing with regs, being stopped often meant violence.

As he felt his own mind go into overdrive and shutdown, he tried his best to think clearly enough to recall what Crosshair would do to help. His mind went back to Kamino, prior to their final test. Crosshair looked different then, his hair had yet to prematurely grey and his tattoo was nowhere in sight although his scowl was present. Tech was certain it had been present since birth.

It had been a somewhat normal day, by Experimental Unit 99’s standards. Target practise, followed by their regular medical examinations and their specialised training according to their mutations, followed by fittings for new armour in preparation for graduation. Not one of them would fit standard issue, and it wouldn’t suit their abilities anyhow. Despite such a normal day, however, it had been one of constant stimulation. Too many conflicting sounds of fellow cadets' laughter and training blasters firing, the constant information flashing up on screens as his mind was tested for the thousandth time, too many droids touching him all over as they determined the size of his armour and blacks, examined his entire body in case any other mutations of note had made themselves known. Hunter too had struggled that day, but at least he was continually accustomed to tackling his heightened senses. For Tech, it had never been quite so easy.

Crosshair was always well tuned to Tech’s state of mind, as snide as he could be he knew when to take a step back, or when to shoot daggers at Wrecker to stop him from sending his overwhelmed brother over the edge.

What did he do? What did he do?

“Tech?” Phee’s concerned voice disrupted his thoughts, just as he was steadying them enough to try to pull himself out of this state. He opened his eyes – he didn’t remember closing them, or rather squeezing them shut – and was met with hers, wide and the most vulnerable he had ever seen her. She wasn’t on the bunk anymore, instead stood back and looking completely lost, “Should I call AZI? What can I do?”

He would usually be curled up in a ball at this point, knees to his chest and usually backed into a corner. Something about tucking himself into an enclosed a space as possible comforted him, somehow. His hands would be clamped over his ears, a barrier from the various auditory stimuli that he was past being able to filter. Instead, he was frozen in place, arms shaking from his pure desperation to move them.

“Tech?” Phee repeated, her voice beginning to sound a little helpless as she stepped closer, “I don’t know what I can do, I’ll-”

She gasped as he grabbed onto her hand with all his might, clinging on with all that he had. The action jogged his memory – this was what Crosshair would do. He would see his brother beginning to spiral, his racing thoughts overwhelming him, the bombardment of sensory input sending him into meltdown, and simply take his hand. A small action, but one that grounded him, rooted him to the here and the now. If Crosshair felt he was ready, he would start to point out specific sensory cues, or ask Tech to point them out himself. Sight first, followed by sound, followed by touch, smell and taste. It could take minutes, it could take longer, but Crosshair would wait. He’d wait for however long he needed.

Hunter and Echo had taken over Crosshair’s role since the Empire lured him away, both with success. The pair of them had first-hand experience of overloads and could empathise to a degree. Omega and Wrecker meant well, but certainly needed some practise with their assistance. Wrecker still hadn’t quite grasped that grabbing his quivering, overwhelmed brother into a bear hug was a counterproductive manoeuvre.

Brown Eyes. Gold amidst a mass of dark curls. Intricate embroidery.

He should probably notice other visual stimuli, not just Phee.

Blue sky peeking through the small window. A jacket slung over the chair in the corner.

Sound, he had to focus on sound now.

Crashing waves in the distance, moon-yos chattering, the steady beep of his own monitor. Soft reassurance from the one stroking his hand with her thumb.

His breathing felt slower, his chest didn’t feel so tight. It was working, even without his brothers to guide him.

Her hands were soft, she held his hand so gently, a stark contrast to the uncomfortable fabric of whatever he had been dressed in. The sheets weren’t much better.

The room had an overwhelming clinical smell to it, bacta and cleaning fluid mainly. He missed the warm, earthy aroma he caught in her arms, not forgetting the small hint of spice.

“That’s it, you got it,” Phee herself appeared more relaxed, a relieved smile appearing on her face, “Scared me for a minute there.”

A feeble whimper escaped his lips before he could stop it, the entire ordeal having exhausted him. His limbs felt heavy, his head had begun to throb. He leaned his head back on the pillows.

“They’ll be back, Brown Eyes,” Phee sat closer, but appeared to not want to sit on the bed again, “Soon I hope, so I can get a day off.”

He would have smiled if he had the energy, but even such a small muscle movement felt monumental. He did, however, have just enough in him to lightly tug at her hand.

“What was that for?” Phee smirked, as he stared at her in slight desperation. He hadn’t the strength to keep pressing, “You want me to let go?”

He shook his head, or tried to, tightening his grip on her hand. She frowned, before her eyes widened of their own accord. Within a few seconds, she had reclaimed her composure.

“I see how it is,” she smirked, sitting on the bed once more, putting an arm around him. She still hadn’t let go of his hand.

He drifted in and out of consciousness for a length of time he couldn’t determine. Never once, however, did Phee’s now comforting scent disappear.

Chapter Text

All was dark beside the glow of the remaining few lights illuminated the island of Pabu. All was quiet beside the distant crash of waves on rocks far below. There was something else too, though. Soft breaths close to his ear.

Tech jolted in fright, eyes flying open. It appeared Phee had fallen asleep at his side, her hair tickling his neck as her head rested on his shoulder. Her arm remained around him, still holding him close while her other hand kept hold of his.

There was a sense of warmth he had never experienced before, a warmth in his chest he couldn’t truly describe. Close contact was never something he had ever found particularly pleasant, on the occasions his brothers had migrated into some form of sleep pile, most often when they were still cadets, he would always remain on the edge so as not to feel enclosed. Like many of his supposed differences, he assumed it was a result of his defective genetics, that such defects had gone so far as to alter his brain chemistry. It was the only explanation he could find.

This instance felt different, although by all logic he didn’t understand why. If this were anyone else – he'd had Wrecker fall asleep draped over him before – he would be recoiling in discomfort. Even if he could do so in his current state, however, he felt no urge to push Phee away, only to nestle closer, hold her in his arms, run his fingers through her hair as she did with his. He wasn’t sure if he ever wanted to wake without her beside him, and the intensity of those feelings were terrifying him.

Was this what is referred to as falling in love? It was something he had never given much thought until that moment; he assumed it had never once crossed his mind as a possibility. He was a clone built for combat, disposable even with his enhancements. Not once would the Kaminoans have considered the possibility of their creations finding love, let alone marriage or children. The latter two words made Tech shudder. Now those were things he had certainly never seen for himself, things far too complex and overwhelming for him to put thought into now. He had barely begun to process however he felt about Phee to possibly consider anything further. Once again, his quick mind was running away with him at top speed.

Why did she seem to like him so much? What about him led her to take interest in him over his brothers? The standard clone face was far more conventionally attractive than his own, he lacked the muscular stature or long dark hair that were considered desirable assets in a potential mate. Quite the contrary, his frame was far more gangling, his hair mousier and receding. His body’s feeble attempt at facial hair ruled out any chance of that rugged, unshaven look the opposite sex appeared to fawn over. As far as he was concerned, he was the one least likely to catch one’s eye, but it wasn’t something that kept him up at night.

His temperament and personality likely didn’t help his chances as they didn’t appear to be hugely favourable either. The eyerolls and exaggerated sighs, even from his own squad, as he passionately shared his knowledge in detail, be it critical data for the situation or simply something of interest, never went unnoticed. More recently he discovered how unfeeling or uncaring he appeared, leaving him unsure how many people he had offended unintentionally throughout his life. Perhaps that is why so many regs took a disliking to him, why so many fights broke out in between them and his brothers.

With his less-than-optimum appearance and even less attractive manner, who would ever think of him when seeking a partner? Perhaps that in itself was the reason. Perhaps Phee took pity on him.

She needn’t have concerned herself, though, for that kind of connection had never been an aspiration of his and likely never would. It appeared it had found him, though, if that was even what was happening. He still couldn’t be sure. Of all things in the galaxy, Tech was certain he understood the human mind the least.

“Can’t sleep?”

Phee was watching him with that familiar smirk, her face close to his, “Looks like I got a little too comfortable, didn’t I?”

Her dark eyes sparkled in the dim light, and Tech looked away shyly.

“I should leave you in peace,” Phee went to get up from the bed, “Look at me, fallin’ asleep in my clothes like a kid, I-”

“Stay.”

Phee faltered, “You...what?”

“St-stay,” Tech spoke the word slowly, with purpose, “Want...want you to-to stay.”

“Yes, sir,” Phee laughed softly, her voice noticeably higher pitched, more childlike, before reverting to her usual self, “Let me at least change into something more comfortable, though.”

She was only gone a minute or two, taking some nightclothes out of a bag in the corner of the room and ducking into the refresher. She re-emerged within a few moments; her hair now wrapped in a deep purple scarf that matched her pyjamas.

"You need anything before I get myself settled?” Phee reached for his hand and flinched, “Your hands are freezing! Why didn’t you tell me you were- oh, right.”

She rushed over to a crate by the door, pulling out a thick, knitted blanket, “Good think Shep brought some provisions for cold nights like these.”

“The finest bantha wool, I’m told. Should keep you nice and toasty,” her smirk spread into a smile as she draped the blanket over Tech, “And some heating packs too, I’ll get ‘em for those hands of yours.”

The small packs were placed in his hands, enjoying the warmth of Phee’s hands as she gently closed her fists over his to help him grip them.

“And just for good measure,” Lula was tucked under his arm, noticeably cleaner and with a soft, floral scent, “There we are, snug as a bug.”

Tech started to smile, grunting a laugh.

“That’s better,” Phee grinned, “Am I invited to join you? Share the warmth, perhaps?”

With his best efforts, Tech lifted the blanket slightly with his arm, managing to hold it for a few seconds before his arm began to shake.

“C’mere, then. Scooch in,” Phee clambered into the bunk – certainly not built for two – nestling under the blanket. Tech tried to move closer, without much success, letting out a frustrated grumble.

“Shh, shh,” she whispered softly, taking him into her arms, “How’s that?”

Tech shifted away slightly before he begun to relax, eyelids fluttering closed. Phee smiled to herself, running her fingers through his hair as he drifted off almost immediately.

Chapter Text

She was wearing a dress. He’d never seen her wear a dress before, perhaps it was too impractical for her usual adventures. Here on Pabu, though, there was no need for practical attire. Her smuggling gear had been replaced with a forest green dress, sleeveless and form fitting with a skirt draping just above her knees. Her toned arms were bare besides numerous beaded bracelets possibly made of coloured glass. There were repeated patterns embroidered all over in light pinks and purples, geometric patterns that he would study in detail if it weren’t inappropriate to look closely at someone’s clothing.

“Good morning,” Phee leaned against the counter with a cup of caf, “A lot warmer today, no need to huddle close for warmth.”

“Water,” Tech looked to the bedside table.

“I’m fine, thanks for asking,” Phee rolled her eyes playfully, “Fresh pot of caf if you’d rather.”

“Water,” Tech repeated, a smirk playing on his lips.

“Yes sir,” Phee put down her caf, “Hang in there, Brown Eyes, I’ll get you sat up in a moment.”

“Try...I try,” Tech was already attempting to push himself up.

“Go on, Brown Eyes,” Phee smiled, “Impress me.”

She may have spoken in her smooth, teasing tone, but her eyes were soft, encouraging. He looked away, putting all his energy into willing his own body to cooperate with him. His arms shook as they struggled under the weight of his torso. Phee took a step closer.

“Need a hand there, soldier?” she held out a hand

“No...no, I...” Tech winced as his left arm gave way beneath him, “Yes.”

“You’re alright,” Phee carefully helped support his weight, to allow him to more easily push himself up. The beaded bracelets on her wrists clinked as she held him under his shoulders. He let out a pained grunt as he finally managed to sit up, “There we are. Progress, see?”

Tech smiled as he leaned back on the pillows, the ache in his muscles dulling as he relaxed. Phee took the glass of water from the side.

“You want to try this yourself too?” she held it out to him, “It’s not as heavy as you.”

“Help,” Tech held up his hand toward the glass, unable to stop the shaking. Phee put it in his hand, closing her hand around his to steady him.

“You got it,” Phee guided the glass to his lips, “I’m barely doing any of the work here. It’s all you, you’re getting your strength back.”

“Not...not all,” Tech avoided her eyes, crestfallen.

“Give it time,” Phee gave him an encouraging smile, “You’ll be on your feet soon enough.”

“You don’t,” he paused, squeezing his eyes shut as if forcing out the words, “Know that.”

“I know you, Brown Eyes. And I know you won’t let yourself give up that easy,” she put the glass down, “But I also know you’re impatient, and you’re gonna rush yourself no matter what I say.”

Tech was silent, unmoving as he stared at his hands.

“Come on now,” Phee gave him a light nudge, “Just think of the improvement you will have made in a week or two, and with your squad here with you too, I bet. Won’t be stuck with just me and AZI for much longer.”

“Perhaps,” he mumbled.

“I know what you need,” Phee looked toward the window, “Fresh air and sunshine, that’ll do you good.”

“How?” he frowned, clumsily gesturing to his legs.

“Your throne awaits, sir,” Phee looked to the doorway, “Bring it in, AZI.”

“Yes, ma’am,” the medical droid hovered in with his familiar hum, pushing a hover-chair with him, “I found this, non-functional, in storage in the medical bay. But with help from Mistress Phee and Master Shep especially, I was able to repair it. Now you no longer have to be confined to your bunk.”

“No,” Tech couldn’t bear to look at it, clenching his fists so tightly they began to shake.

“Sure you can, I can help you get into it no problem, I’m stronger than I look, y’know,” Phee folded her arms.

“No,” Tech tried his best to blink away the frustrated tears stinging at his eyes, turning his head away from her.

“I do not understand what the problem is,” AZI looked from Tech to Phee, his fixed expression appearing concerned.

“Give us a moment,” Phee gave him a polite nod. The droid glided out of the room without a word, letting the door shut behind him.

“It’s alright, Tech,” she took his hand in both of hers, “It’s nothing to be ashamed of.”

He knew that really. Echo’s injuries from the Citadel could be argued as worse – at least Tech had retained all his limbs, functional or not – and yet it barely seemed to bother him. He watched him grow more comfortable of his scomp link, watched him grow steadier and steadier on his new Republic-issued cybernetic legs as he walked around and around the Medbay or up and down the length of the Marauder. Wrecker liked his striking new white eye and large scars, thrilled at his ability to brag about surviving a literal blow to the head. No one he knew allowed any injury or disability to define them. Then again, perhaps the grief for what they once had was undertaken out of his sight.

“Tech,” Phee’s voice snapped him out of his thoughts, “Baby steps. There’s a balcony just outside the medbay, maybe we can start there. Just us, no one will be there. I’ll even get AZI to check the coast is clear before we turn every corner.”

Tech let out a sharp sigh, “Fine.”

“Don’t overexcite yourself,” Phee playfully rolled her eyes, “C’mon, you haven’t had a chance to soak up some rays and appreciate the view in way too long.”

She gave his hand an encouraging squeeze, “It’s alright, Brown Eyes. I’ll be right there with you.”

The bright sun made him wince. At least his goggles had built in protection from UV rays, but he didn’t even know where they were. All this time and he hadn’t thought to ask.

“Never gets old, does it?” Phee had her arm draped over the back of the hover-chair. Tech didn’t respond, “Don’t you think?”

He wasn’t looking across the glorious landscape, instead down at his lap. Phee let out a soft sigh and knelt to his level.

“I know,” she held out her hands to him and slowly he took them, “It’ll get better.”

Chattering of moon-yos had Tech looking up, and three hopped up onto the balcony. Phee shook her head.

“Haven’t got any snacks for ya, nothing to see here,” she turned to look at them, holding out her empty hands. Within seconds, they’d leapt down beside her, one jumping up onto her shoulder, “Or you can check for yourself, that’s fine.”

As the creatures searched the balcony for any scrap of food, the smaller of the three looked up at Tech. It had a paler coat, lighter eyes, and tipped its head curiously as it studied him.

“Fascinating, isn’t he?” Phee grinned, noticing Tech’s frown of confusion. She laughed as the little moon-yo took the opportunity to leap up onto his lap, “Looks like you made a friend, Brown Eyes.”

As Tech reached a shaking hand to pet it, a bleeping sound startled it and the three moon-yos scrambled away with a shriek of fright that made him wince. Phee took something out of her belt.

“Been keeping this safe for you,” she smirked, holding up the bleeping commlink, “Perhaps it’s the good news you’ve been waiting for.”

Havoc-6, do you copy?

Tech’s eyes widened at the sound of Hunter’s voice. Phee chuckled to herself, “Receiving loud and clear, Havoc-1. Got Havoc-2 with me here too, but he’s not feeling too chatty.”

How is he-

Tech’s awake?!

Omega, let her speak.

“He’s awake alright. On the mend, slowly but surely,” Phee glanced at him with a smile.

Tech! Tech! We got him back! We got Crosshair!

“Cross-Crosshair?” Tech looked from the commlink to Phee, eyes lighting up.

He’s weak, but alive. He’s coming home.

Echo’s voice had Tech grunting a laugh. All he had to hear was Wrecker’s voice and they’d all made it out alive. Not that he’d ever doubted them, of course not.

Wrecker! Tech’s awake! He’s going to be okay!

He heard nothing in response. Wrecker was alive, they all were, but it seemed he wasn’t up for talking. Perhaps he was injured too, there’d be three of them in the med bay. At least he’d have company.

“What’s your ETA, so Shep can make his welcome home preparations?” Phee gave Tech’s hand a squeeze.

By sunrise, I’d say. We’ll need a space in the medbay for Crosshair.

“As it happens, there’s a free space beside his brother,” Phee raised an eyebrow, “A family reunion, how sweet.”

We’ll update when we’re out of hyperspace. Hang in there, Tech.

Chapter Text

“When will he wake up?”

“When he’s ready, kiddo. He’s asleep more than he’s awake most days.”

“Don’t rush him, alright? He’s still recovering and will be for a while.”

“Where are his goggles?”

“They’re safe, don’t you worry. I’m always careful with treasures.”

“Are you sure he’s gonna be alright?”

“It will take time, Master Wrecker. His progress so far is positive, however it is still likely he may never regain his ability to walk.”

“Don’t underestimate Tech, AZI. He-”

“He’s awake!”

Tech opened his eyes slowly to find himself surrounded. Flanked on either side by Phee – in her usual spot – and Omega with Hunter and Echo stood close by. Wrecker sat hunched over in the corner, looking at him with a nervous expression. Not one of them had got out unscathed, it seemed. Omega’s arm was in a sling, Hunter’s chest was braced like Wrecker’s neck. Echo was bruised, with a medical patch on his forehead. All but Wrecker began to smile.

“Tech! We were so worried about you!” Omega threw her arms around him, hugging him uncomfortably tight. She babbled on, but he found himself too overcome with pain and discomfort to focus. Someone came to his rescue.

“Easy, Omega,” Echo had carefully released him from her grip, nodding to his brother, “Good to see you conscious, Tech.”

“I trust Phee has taken good care of you,” Hunter folded his arms, a wry smile playing on his lips.

“Yes,” was all Tech managed to say. Phee gave his shoulder a squeeze.

“Not exactly caregiver of the year, but he’s still breathing at least,” she smirked, “At least now I get a day off.”

Tech looked at her with a frown. Was he just a burden to her, had he been forced upon her to look after without her consent? He had never once stopped to consider the sacrifice she was making to her own time. She had treasures to find, places to explore, things far more interesting than nursing a man she barely knew back to health. As her eyes met his he looked away, down at his hands.

A second set of beeps from another monitor, sounding in a steady rhythm out of sync with his own, he finally turned to his left. Crosshair was here and looking worse than anyone had ever seen him. Thin, pale, weak, hooked up to even more wires and tubes than he was with a mask over his mouth and nose.

“Cross...Crosshair?”

“He’ll be alright. He’s really been through it, but AZI says he’ll make a full recovery,” Hunter said calmly.

“What-” he began, the rest of his sentence refusing to be spoken.

“We don’t know what happened to him, not for sure,” Echo sighed, “But I’d hazard a guess that he was a guinea pig for whatever Hemlock is working on.”

“There were other clones there. Hundreds, maybe more,” Hunter shook his head in disgust, “Some in tanks, others laid out like Cross. We’ve given Rex the coordinates, we barely got Crosshair out with the four of us.

“You can’t save everyone,” Phee said quietly, patting Tech’s shoulder, “Be grateful you all got back here with your lives.”

“I’ll rendezvous with Rex. Our numbers are growing, we might be able to break them all out with enough of us.”

“Echo, no!” Omega grabbed onto his hand, “We only just got you back!”

“I cannot sit by and allow my brothers to be nothing more than flesh for experimentation,” Echo’s voice grew fierce, but softened at the sight of her tears, “I’m not going right away, I’ll at least give myself the chance to recover from this last mission.”

“I want to go with you,” Omega’s voice cracked.

“You’re needed here,” Echo looked to Tech and started to smile, “I need you to look out for Tech for me, he’s got a long road ahead of him and needs the support.”

Omega looked at Tech with tears streaming down her cheeks and reached for his hand. Slowly, he lifted his and managed to take hers, giving it a light, shaky squeeze as he began to smile at her.

“You’re gonna be alright, Tech,” Hunter said with a smile, “We’re all behind you.”

“Wreck...Wrecker?” Tech frowned. His biggest brother hadn’t moved from his spot, feeling miles away instead of just across the room. Wrecker was staring at the floor as if refusing to look at him. He still didn’t respond.

“Hey,” Hunter gave him a stern nudge, and Wrecker looked up with sparkling eyes. He looked at Tech a moment, holding his gaze a few seconds before looking away again.

“I’m sorry,” he mumbled, getting to his feet and walking out of the medbay. Omega hopped off the bunk and tried to follow, only for Echo to block her way.

“Leave him be,” he guided her back toward the bunk, looking at Tech with a sigh, “He...He feels responsible for what happened. Your fall.”

“Convinced he should have kept hold of you,” Hunter ran a hand through his hair.

“Not...it was...it...it was...” Tech sighed in frustration.

“Take your time,” Phee reminded him gently.

“Not...his fault. Fault. Not,” he looked down in shame.

“We’ve tried to tell him,” Hunter shook his head.

“I think he’s been having nightmares,” Omega mumbled.

“If he’s even slept at all,” Hunter said, “Hopefully he can rest up now we’re back.”

Tech was beginning to feel nauseous, suddenly afraid he would vomit. The last thing he needed was to cause yet more bother.

“CT-9904 – I mean, Master Crosshair, has improved,” AZI told the group, no one having noticed he had re-entered the room, “He was severely dehydrated and malnourished; however, this is in the process of rectification.”

“Nice work, AZI,” Hunter nodded, “We owe you.”

“On the contrary, Master Sergeant Hunter,” AZI turned to him, “I am merely performing the duties I was programmed for.”

“Hunter will suffice,” he smirked, folding his arms.

“I shall now assess the rest of you,” AZI hovered closer to Hunter, “Please unfold your arms so they do not obstruct the medscan, thank you.”

As Hunter’s chest was scanned, Tech struggled to focus. Everything felt too bright all of a sudden, too loud and overwhelming. He tried to clench his fists, but they felt numb, the sensation spreading up his arms and beginning in his legs. Phee moved to take his hand, but he couldn’t hold hers. He felt cold but he couldn’t shiver, the room started to blur, to multiply, and he was beginning to panic. Was this it? Was his nervous system giving out? Was he witnessing the demise of his own brain?

“Your fractured ribs are healing correctly, Master Hunter. How would you-”

“Tech?” Echo frowned, You alright?”

All eyes turned back to him, as everything faded into nothing.

Chapter Text

They’d sat vigil by Tech’s bedside in silence, none of them having moved from their positions. Echo, leaning in the doorway, Hunter with his arm around Omega who had eventually fallen asleep on him. Crosshair, now awake in the next bunk, his and Tech’s monitors beeping in unison. And then there was Phee, sat closest to Tech, gently stroking his hair. They were all shaken, haunted, and clinging to any hope they had.

It had all happened so quickly; Echo had only noticed the change in Tech moments before the convulsions began. AZI immediately abandoned his check-ups on the others, and Hunter had ushered Omega out of the med-bay immediately despite her protests. Phee and Echo were the only two remaining, frozen in terror as they helplessly stood watch. That was until Phee cried out in terror that Tech wasn’t breathing, or at the most was struggling to. Panic had struck through Echo and snapped him out of his trance, grabbing hold of Phee before she could disrupt AZI’s care. She had hidden her face in his shoulder, but he continued to watch as his brother was beginning to calm, his skin a sickly grey. If it weren’t for the monitor continuing, he could have easily been mistaken for dead.

Upon hearing Phee’s desperate cry from within the medbay, Omega had fought against Hunter’s grip to run back inside. AZI tried unsuccessfully to calm the others while evaluating the situation, scanning Tech’s brain and giving his diagnosis once the convulsions stopped. A seizure, likely brought on from the trauma of the fall, with some likelihood of it occurring again. He put his patient under heavy sedation and was keeping a close watch over him. All they could do was wait.

Wrecker had come running upon hearing the alarms but just as quickly made his escape, unable to bear his brother in such condition. He’d been plagued with the memory, the sensation of losing his grip and watching Tech plummet out of sight. He had survived, but at what cost?

Crosshair was beginning to doze off now, laid on his side and watching Tech with dull, miserable eyes. He himself hadn’t spoken a word since waking just a few hours ago, barely looked anyone in the eye. No one had ever seen him so frail, so thin and weak, but at the very least they were glad he was alive, safe, and where he belonged.

Omega woke with a start, breaths short and sharp as she started to cry.

“Hey, hey, easy, kid,” Hunter’s voice was soft and yet weighed down with defeat, “It’s alright, it’s alright, ad’ika.”

“Tech?” she whispered between sobs.

“Fast asleep,” Phee didn’t take her eyes off him.

“All vital signs are normal,” AZI floated into the room, “And despite the period of oxygen deprivation, brain scans confirm no major damage. Master Tech should be considered fortunate for this outcome.”

“When will he wake up?” Omega sniffed.

“He is sedated for now,” AZI hovered closer to Omega, “To allow him to recover from the seizure. He will wake when I deem him ready.”

“Come take a walk with me,” Echo nodded toward the door, “Nice weather out, the fresh air will do you-”

“No,” Omega snapped, “I’m staying until he wakes up.”

“Tech needs his rest, Omega,” Hunter sighed, “Go with Echo, stretch your legs, eat something. You need to heal too.”

“I don’t want to,” the young girl sobbed childishly, “I want to stay with him.”

“Hey,” Phee got to her feet, “I could do with a walk myself. C’mon, kiddo, Echo hasn’t had the grand tour of Pabu yet.”

“Yeah, why don’t you show me all the best spots?” Echo folded his arms. Omega looked up at Hunter, who forced a smile.

“I’ll stay right here, he won’t be alone,” he said softly, “And I’ll comm the moment anything changes, if it does.”

Reluctantly, Omega got to her feet and approached Echo, Phee following behind, and the three of them walked out of the medical bay.

“Shall we work our way down to the beach?” Phee took the lead.

“Is it true he won’t ever walk again?” Omega looked up at Echo, once they were far enough away from the medbay, “AZI could be wrong. He could be?”

Echo sighed, “I don’t know, Omega. I’m sorry, I really don’t know.”

“We have to have hope,” Phee said with a small smile, “Do me a favour, kiddo, try to stay hopeful around him. He doesn’t have much himself at the moment.”

“Do you a favour?” Omega frowned, “Tech is our brother.”

“Hey,” Echo’s voice turned stern as he gave her a light nudge. He looked to Phee with an apologetic expression, but she waved dismissively before he could speak.

“No harm done,” she smiled, but her voice had lost its spark, “Now you’re all back he won’t be needing me so much. It’s you he wants.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure,” Echo smirked. Omega frowned up at him in confusion.

“What was it like for you, Echo?” Omega asked after a moment of silence.

“After Skako Minor?” he flinched, falling silent. After a beat, he took a seat on a nearby bench that overlooked the ocean.

“I’ll...leave you to it,” Phee said as she watched Omega hop up beside Echo.

“No, no. You can stay,” Echo gestured to the space beside him.

“I’m not one to intrude,” Phee smiled, “Besides, I’ve been spending so much time with Tech I’ve barely been around the island in however long. I could use the walk, there’s someone I need to see.”

Echo watched her go before letting out a sigh, “Tech is going to need us more than ever, Omega. Especially if-”

“Especially if he doesn’t walk again?” Omega looked up at him.

“That’s right,” Echo nodded, “I...he’s going to rush himself, and it’s only going to frustrate him. We need to be the ones to remind him, hold him up. Remind him that he’s still Tech, he’s still our brother, regardless of what he can or can’t do. That his new...situation, it doesn’t define who he is.”

“Is that how you felt?”

Echo nodded and took a deep breath, “I woke up to find half my body replaced with metal, that I had all these ports and sockets that allowed me to be no more than a living computer, all against my knowledge and will.”

He shuddered at the memory, “And now Tech; he’s woken up with his body still in one piece but not working how it should. It’s not keeping up with his brain for one thing, and for someone like Tech that must be devastating, humiliating. I know all about that. That’s why I joined them.”

“I was stood there on Skako Minor with my new body on display. My emaciated body attached to cybernetics. Everyone had this look in their eyes, I don’t want to say disgust but it felt that way. It felt that way because it was how I felt, my own reflection horrified me. They were probably just concerned that I was still working for the enemy, I guess.

“I wanted to go back to the 501st, back with Rex, like old times as he’d said. But those times were long behind me now. Fives was gone and I wasn’t sure I’d know how to carry on without him, we’d fought alongside each other since we were cadets. This new squad, though, I had a feeling they’d have a level of understanding. They were used to being looked at for being different. I was treated as an equal from the beginning, I knew that was where I fit.”

He looked to Omega, “But it still took a lot of adjustment. I would reach for things and forget there was no hand there to grab something. The legs I was found with were no better than an old droid’s, but even when they were replaced, they felt wrong. They weren’t me, weren’t a part of me. It took longer to get used to them than others might have thought. Longer than Tech may have realised.”

“What if he can’t come with us anymore? For missions?” Omega looked up at him with wide eyes. Echo let out a slow sigh.

“I don’t know. At the very least he’ll be out of action for a long time. All we can do is wait, in truth. He could make a full recovery or be left with lasting damage. Even with the latter he could be fit to come with us, or perhaps not. We just don’t know.”

“I wish I could help,” Omega sniffled, wringing her hands. Echo put his arm around her and pulled her close.

“You are, Omega, just by standing by him, keeping his spirits up even if it doesn’t seem to be working just yet. He’s not facing this alone,” Echo gave her a reassuring smile before chuckling to himself, “Besides, it looks as if he will be in good company if he does have to remain here.”

Omega frowned in confusion as he patted her shoulder, “Where can we get some food around here? I think we could both use a good meal.”

“We...we usually eat with Shep and Lyana and-” Omega faltered, wiping her eyes, “Wrecker likes to help with the fishing.”

She let out a sob and the floodgates opened, dissolving into tears as she drew her knees up to her chest. In that moment, Echo looked upon her and only saw the little girl he first met on Kamino, all the months of experience and intensity falling away instantly. She appeared to shrink, hugging her knees as if she didn’t want to let go. All Echo could do was scoop her up onto his lap.

“Let it all out” he patted her back lightly, “No kid should have gone through what you have. I only wish we could have shielded you from it all.”

“We’re the same age,” Omega rested her head on his chest, looking up at him with tear-filled eyes.

“That doesn’t count,” Echo smirked, “My childhood was over long ago, if it ever happened.”

“I want things how they were,” Omega whimpered, “Things were still bad before but...but...”

“I know,” Echo sighed, “If we hadn’t broken Crosshair out I’d say I never should have suggested Eriadu. In that sense I feel responsible.”

“I can’t stop seeing him fall,” she shook her head, “I close my eyes and I see it all over again.”

“It’ll pass,” Echo ran a hand through her hair, his voice soft, “I promise.”

--

The Marauder stood alone outside the Archium, not a single person in sight. Phee Genoa emerged from around the side of the large building with her head bowed, arms wrapped around herself sorrowfully. Eyeing the familiar ship, she found herself walking towards it. Perhaps for a moment, she could pretend everything was how it was before, leaning back in the co-pilot seat beside Tech, his eyes shifting nervously as he visibly processed her flirtations. His bewilderment was endearing, but she never pushed him.

As soon as she noticed Wrecker hunched over on the entry ramp, Phee’s demeanour changed entirely. The mask was back on, she stood up tall, arms casually by her side.

“There you are,” she approached the ship, “I think Shep’s welcome home feast is almost ready.”

Wrecker didn’t look up.

“I’m not hungry,” he mumbled.

“I don’t believe that for a moment,” Phee folded her arms, “Wrecker, not hungry?”

“Well, I’m not,” he avoided her gaze intentionally as she settled beside him.

“Talk to me,” she nudged him lightly, “It might help.”

“Nothing will help,” Wrecker shook his head, “Unless you can change the past.”

“Sorry, my research into time travel hit a dead end,” Phee started to smile.

“It’s not funny,” Wrecker snapped, pushing himself up and stalking away.

“No, Wrecker, wait,” Phee began to follow, “I didn’t mean-”

“I broke him,” Wrecker wheeled around, towering fiercely over her, “My brother is broken. I did that, that’s my fault. You have no idea!”

He watched her flinch, eyes widening, smirk fading. His shoulders sagged, “I wasn’t strong enough.”

Wrecker walked away with no real direction, as Phee watched him helplessly.

“I understand more than you realise.”

Chapter Text

His entire body felt heavy, weighed down with a dull ache that wasn’t far off becoming unbearable.

“Look who’s popular,” Crosshair smirked, watching him with tired eyes. Tech glanced beside him to find Omega curled up there, fast asleep and clutching at his arm. With her spot occupied, Phee was sat by the bed, also having dozed off.

“They’ve been fighting over you,” Crosshair chuckled, “Well, the kid has. I don’t think your girlfriend minds so much.”

Tech frowned, but no words came out, only a quiet groan.

“I’m surprised, you were the last I’d expect to get a girl,” Crosshair raised an eyebrow, resting back on his pillows, “She’s good, though. Not that my approval matters.”

“Cr-Cross,” Tech forced the word out, and it came out slow and unsteady. Crosshair’s face fell, he let out a sigh. Tech bristled in frustration.

“It’s me that deserves to be in your position,” Crosshair muttered, “You shouldn’t have gone to that length for me. You should have come back here and forgotten about me.”

“No,” that word came out easily, “Our...our brother. Brother.”

“You really still believe that?” Crosshair snorted.

“Yes!” Tech said indignantly, managing to push himself up, almost into sitting.

“Huh, at least we know how to get you moving again,” Crosshair chuckled, while Tech looked at Omega in alarm. Despite the jolt, she merely stirred and settled again, “Piss you off and you find the strength.”

“We don’t...” Tech laid back, focusing on not crushing his little sister, “Leave...leave our own...”

He sighed, closing his eyes in defeat.

“Go on,” Crosshair gave him an encouraging nod, “Don’t give up now.”

“You...know. You know what I...what I-” Tech huffed a sigh, voice trailing away, eyes lowered. Usually so self-assured, confident, seeing Tech barely a shadow of himself was painful for Crosshair to witness. The room fell silent once again.

“What...” Tech’s voice was quiet, half-hearted.

“They said you had a fit,” Crosshair sighed, “Passed out and started convulsing, stopped breathing for a moment. The way they were all sat around you when I woke up, I thought you were dead.”

“And...you?”

“That doesn’t matter,” Crosshair shook his head.

“Does...it does,” Tech frowned, “What-”

“Don’t overdo it,” Crosshair said in concern, “I mean it. You’ve been out a couple days, let yourself rest.”

Tech looked down at Omega as she shifted in her sleep, blonde hair brushing against his skin. He was just grateful he could feel it at all.

“He lives,” Phee’s voice startled him, and Tech turned to see her sitting up and stretching with a yawn, “Had us worried there, Brown Eyes.”

A soft chuckle made Tech’s heart warm, looking back at Crosshair to find a familiar mischievous, teasing smirk on his face. It had been far too long since he had seen such an expression, heard that laugh, but it felt like no time at all in that moment.

“Something funny over there?” Phee leaned to look at him, an eyebrow raised.

“Never thought I’d see my brother be flirted at,” Crosshair muttered, the smirk still on his face.

“He does speak,” Phee glanced to Tech with a wicked grin before looking back to Crosshair, “Don’t underestimate ol’ Brown Eyes, by the way. I think it’s the goggles.”

She turned back to Tech, eyes softening, “How are you feeling?”

He struggled to find the words, wincing as he laid back on the pillows. Talking was difficult before, but now it cost significantly more energy. His head had begun to throb, the rest of him continuing to ache. He didn’t want to move, even if he could.

“Hurt,” was all he could manage.

“You’re in pain?” Phee’s smile dropped, “Where? Your head?”

“All...all...” Tech groaned.

“All over?”

“Can’t-” he closed his eyes, exhausted already, “I...can’t...”

“Call the droid,” Crosshair was sat up, narrow eyes wide with concern, “And get the kid off him.”

“Master Tech! I am glad to see you awake!” AZI hovered into the room as if on cue, “You have been unconscious after experiencing a seizure, tonic-clonic to be precise. I expect you are feeling fatigued and confused.”

“He’s in pain,” Phee’s voice sounded desperate, “Less talking, more working, metalhead.”

“Y-yes, Mistress Phee,” AZI floated over his patient and scanned him, “Respiratory and cranial activity are normal, heartrate is slightly elevated. How would you describe your pain?”

“He’s finding it hard to speak,” Phee stroked Tech’s hair, “Hang in there, Brown Eyes.”

“Tech?” Omega stirred, yawning. Her eyes lit up, “Tech! You’re awake!”

“Get off the bunk a minute, kiddo,” Phee gave her a gentle nudge.

“Is he okay?” Omega frowned, “Tech?”

“He’ll be alright, he just needs some space,” Phee offered her a reassuring smile. Silently, the young girl sat between the two bunks, arms folded.

“My...my head,” Tech groaned, squeezing his eyes shut.

“Aren’t you going to do something?” Phee glared at the droid.

“Of course, Mistress Phee, I am just analysing the most appropriate course of action,” AZI brandished a liquid-filled syringe, “I shall administer pain relief, and I assure you that these symptoms are all quite normal after a seizure.”

“And will it happen again?” Crosshair asked.

“It...is possible,” AZI looked down, solemn, “Master Tech suffered a significant blunt force trauma to his head, and there is a chance that seizures will occur again, for the rest of his life.”

“Dank farrik,” Crosshair muttered.

“So...so he won’t be able to?”

“Stop,” Tech let out a quiet whimper, leaving Omega’s sentence cut short.

“Why don’t you go find Hunter, tell him Tech is awake?” Phee said quietly, “So-”

“Why don’t you go?” Omega’s eyes narrowed, causing Phee to flinch.

“Well, I-”

“Both,” Tech looked over at Crosshair, eyes pleading.

“Both of you,” Crosshair repeated, louder, “Go fight over him outside, let him rest.”

“But-”

“Go,” Crosshair snapped, “I could use some peace myself.”

Phee quietly got to her feet and beckoned for Omega to follow, only for the young clone to run out of the medbay ahead of her.

“Finally,” Crosshair sighed, watching AZI administer the pain relief into his brother’s neck. After a few seconds, Tech visibly began to relax.

“And how is your condition, Master Crosshair?” AZI turned his attention to him, “Your heartrate has improved, and you are no longer dehydrated. Your recovery is progressing well.”

“Goody,” Crosshair laid back on his pillows, arms crossed, “You can go away now too.”

“I shall return later for further analyses,” AZI had one last glance in Tech’s direction, before floating outside. The room fell silent at long last, only broken by the two monitors quietly bleeping.

“It’ll get better-”

“Don’t,” Tech’s intended snap came out slurred, “Don’t tell...tell me...”

Crosshair flinched as his brother let out a strangled cry, perhaps of frustration, he couldn’t tell.

“Hey,” he was on his feet immediately, held back by his monitor and various wires, “Karking hell.”

Ripping them all away – he could worry about the damage later – he was at Tech’s side in an instant, reaching to place his hand on his shoulder.

“Don’t,” Tech jerked away awkwardly, his voice shaking and breaths shortening, “Don’t...please don’t...don’t touch me.”

“Easy, easy,” Crosshair moved his hands away, “Don’t stress yourself out, it’s alright.”

He rolled his eyes at himself; those words were about as useful as telling Tech to get up and walk right now. Instead, he spied a familiar plush sat on the side table.

“Looks like they’ve left Lula for you, if that’ll help,” he picked her up, looking to see Tech now attempting to curl into a ball, with difficulty. One hand had managed to hold his head, the other trailing behind. With his slower hand, he reached and grasped at Lula, slowly and shakily pulling her to his chest. He squeezed the plush in his hands, a motion that had always been seemingly soothing when Tech experienced his shutdowns. His breaths gradually began to slow, and all Crosshair could do was sit behind him and hope his presence was enough.

“Br-broken,” Tech mumbled, staring blankly at Lula’s ears, “Useless.”

Crosshair shook his head, “Don’t say that.”

“Truth,” Tech spoke in a monotone, defeated, exhausted.

“It’s not, Tech, I promise you,” Crosshair watched his brother sadly.

“I-”

“I know, alright? Everyone is so cheerfully saying you’ll be up on your feet fully recovered in no time, and yet you feel like there’s been no real progress,” Crosshair sat on the bunk, “You’re still our brother, Tech, no matter the outcome. You won’t be any less important to us.”

Tech curled in on himself further, his legs following suit albeit slowly. His face was buried in Lula’s worn fur.

“Broken,” he mumbled once more, beginning to doze off. The pang Crosshair felt in his chest hadn’t gotten any easier, in fact, it felt worse. Perhaps when they were cadets, when Tech was swamped in his standard issue uniform and stood far shorter than the regs, it wasn’t so surprising. He was timid back then, if that could be believed, unrecognisable next to the soldier he would become. He struggled to keep up with his own mind, easily overwhelmed to the point he couldn’t even think, or worse, go into meltdown. It made him the biggest target of them all.

While Tech never initiated any conflict, he would certainly, unintentionally, fuel it. Countless times Crosshair and the others had to put themselves between Tech and whichever reg was picking a fight or drag him away before he talked his way into a black eye. Other times, he wasn’t so fortunate.

Crosshair remembered patching up an inconsolable, overloaded Tech, that he found just a second too late to save from a bloody nose. Tech didn’t say a word as Crosshair picked him up off the floor, walked him back to their barracks and fetched him clean uniform. He didn’t say a word as Crosshair helped him change, wiped away the blood and grabbed him a canteen of water. He was curled up, hands over his ears, breathing short and sharp.

“Am I broken?” he finally spoke, his voice shaking and almost silent, eyes red and full of tears.

Crosshair bristled, “What did they say to you?”

“My...my difference in height and appearance are a by-product of my genetic mutations, I know that,” he mumbled, almost too quickly to understand, “But why...why did they not dispose of me when I am clearly not the standard of soldier they want?”

“Tech-” Crosshair’s eyes widened.

“The rest of you excel in combat but I am the opposite. I do not fit the specifications listed in the contract between the Republic and the Kaminoans, therefore I am bad stock, a waste of resources to keep me alive.”

“Don’t you even think about that, Tech,” Crosshair snapped a little too harshly, regretting it the moment Tech startled so greatly, “Nala Se chose us, specifically chose all of us including you. Have you seen how fast you can slice and program things? None of us, no reg can compete with that.”

“You cannot win a war with a datapad,” Tech looked down.

“You can if you’re as good with them as you,” Crosshair carefully wiped at Tech’s nose, “You’re not broken, Tech. You’re better than them, we’re superior. Why else do they hate us so much? They’re all the same, they’re not special. They weren’t hand-picked to be an elite squad. They wish they were us.”

Tech finally looked up at his brother with a frown.

“You’ll get up to speed with combat, we’ll make sure of that,” Crosshair smirked.

Hearing that one word from his brother, now grown – and taller than the regs, thanks to a drastic adolescent growth spurt – felt different. His confidence had grown in all that time, to the point he had been the most self-assured of them all. It had only taken one fall to seemingly unravel all that progress.

Chapter Text

“A toast, to your safe return,” Shep raised his cup and the others followed suit. All except Tech.

AZI had deemed him strong enough to spend more time outside the medbay and actively encouraged it, his withdrawal not going unnoticed. He willingly remained in the sanctuary of the medbay with only Crosshair for company. Omega and Phee were far more conscious of disturbing Crosshair’s peace again.

Crosshair remained at the medical bay during the gathering, although he had been invited and medically cleared to attend. He wasn’t up to playing happy families, especially not in a medical gown, was his response to Hunter’s encouragement.

Tech himself had been hesitant, stating he would rather not leave Crosshair on his own. This was partially true, but he also still felt an overwhelming sense of self-consciousness over being seen in such a condition. The medbay wasn’t close to Shep’s home, to get there would involve others on Pabu watching him go. It had taken some persuasion, from Omega pleading to a gentle nudge from Echo, but it was Crosshair’s encouragement that had finally made up his mind. He was given some clothes, loose fitting and comfortable, and with Crosshair’s help he was dressed and ready to venture out.

He didn’t eat, though, or even take a sip of his drink. That would involve attempting to feed himself, or worse, have someone feed him. Not in front of an audience. It was usually Crosshair that helped with that now, and only when no one else was around.

Echo was on his right side, Omega on his left. Phee had been heading for the seat to his left, until the young clone beat her to it. With a small sigh, she had taken her seat beside Shep instead and fixed on her usual, cool smirk.

For a celebration, conversation was certainly stitled. Wrecker picked at his food and avoided Tech’s gaze entirely, while Hunter, Echo and Shep attempted to make some form of small talk. Phee tried to keep up her mask, but several times Tech caught her looking down in misery. That was until she caught his eye and forced a smile.

“You alright?” Echo asked quietly, when the others were distracted. Tech looked at him, but no words came out. Instead, he shifted his shoulders in a slight shrug. Echo nodded, “I know.”

“Don’t...don’t t-tell me...”

“I wasn’t going to,” Echo smirked, “I was told everything would be just like old times. Just like old times, with a body I didn’t recognise, my brother gone. Rex meant well, I know that, but I never saw the old times again.”

“At least you-”

Tech startled as a moon-yo, the small, pale coated one as before, hopped up onto his lap with a gleeful noise.

“Is that your little friend making a return?” Phee chuckled. Tech shifted awkwardly as all eyes turned to him.

“Is it a baby?” Omega cooed, immediately grabbing a piece of fruit from her plate to offer to the little creature.

“It looks like it,” Lyana smiled, “Dad, wasn’t there a moon-yo that lost it’s mother?”

“In the flood, yes,” Shep nodded, “But the others helped raise it. I like to think our community models itself on that of moon-yos.”

“It’s okay,” Omega fed the moon-yo some fruit, “My brothers and I, we don’t have parents either.”

Tech grunted a laugh, slowly reaching to pat its head. It nuzzled into his hand, eagerly accepting the fruit from Omega’s hand.

“You try, Tech,” she picked up another piece of fruit and placed it in his hand. He did his best to block out the attention he was getting, focusing only on his apparent new friend, and not dropping the fruit.

“You did it!” Omega grinned as the moon-yo grabbed the fruit, the young clone patting Tech on the back as if he were a child. Any uplift to his mood quickly dissipated but he said nothing. Echo was watching him wistfully. He hadn’t the heart to give Omega a talking to, as much as the look on Tech’s face brought back the pain of his own recovery. She meant well, he was almost certain there was no malice in that kid’s body whatsoever, but it clearly hadn’t made her tone any less painful. Hunter and Echo exchanged a knowing glance.

The moment the meal ended, Wrecker was on his feet and walking away without a word. For Tech, it was one too many times.

“Wre-wrecker,” Tech followed after him, as fast as his chair would take him, “Don’t, d-don't walk away from me.”

“You should rest,” Wrecker mumbled, his pace not faltering.

“D-don’t condescend me!” Tech snapped, “Listen. Listen!”

“I need to-”

“You cannot...cannot keep this up,” Tech spoke fiercely, summoning the strength to push himself up onto his feet, legs shaking but supporting his own weight, breathing heavily, “Per-perhaps you would rather I had...had perished on impact. So...so I wasn’t a constant reminder.”

“Tech, no, I’d-” Wrecker finally turned, the moment his brother’s legs gave way beneath him and he crumpled to the ground with a wince of pain, “Tech!”

“I-I’m fine,” Tech mumbled, but did not resist Wrecker hauling him to his feet and supporting his weight. Carefully, he walked him back to his chair, and before he helped him to sit, Wrecker pulled him into a close hug.

“I’m sorry, Tech,” his voice shook, “I’m so sorry.”

Tech yelped in pain as his brother squeezed a little too tight, clutching at him to keep his balance.

“I sus-suspect the apology is...not, not in relation to avoiding me,” he leaned heavily in Wrecker, who slowly helped him back into his chair. Wrecker sat down on a rock beside him.

“I-”

“It...it is not your fault,” Tech looked at him seriously.

Wrecker shook his head, staring at his feet, “I’m meant to be the strong one, Tech.”

“Noth-nothing would have saved me,” Tech sighed, “Not without...not without you falling too. Or...or all of us.”

There was a beat of silence.

“I...I should not have saved myself,” Tech mumbled, “Or...or tried to...”

“What do you mean?” Wrecker frowned.

“Better...better d-dead than-”

“No,” Wrecker stood abruptly, “Don’t say that, Tech!”

Tech was silent, staring at his knees, until Wrecker grabbed him by the shoulders.

“I’d rather you in that chair than dead, Tech,” he knelt down in front of him, tears sparkling in his eyes, “When you fell, I...”

“Why?” Tech looked up at him, “I am of no-”

“You’re our brother, Tech,” Wrecker kept ahold of him, “I don’t care if you’re useful!”

“I...I...”

“There he is, see?” Footsteps approached, and the pair looked up to find Phee with the little moon-yo on her shoulder, “This one broke into the medbay, disturbed Chuckles’ beauty sleep. Looks like she was looking for you.”

The little creature chirped with delight, scrambling down from Phee’s shoulder to clamber onto Tech’s lap.

“N’aww, got yourself a new friend,” Wrecker laughed.

“They’re looking for you at the harbour, by the way,” Phee raised an eyebrow. Wrecker leapt to his feet.

“I wasn’t lyin’ when I said I had to go,” Wrecker patted Tech’s shoulder lightly before charging away, leaving Phee to step closer to Tech.

“You alright?”

Tech avoided her gaze, staying silent.

“I think someone could use a nap,” her voice softened, and for a moment Tech was sure she was referring to the moon-yo. When he finally looked up, though, she was looking at him.

“I’m not...not a child!” Tech snapped, rage bristling through him. She was right, he was exhausted, the mere mention of sleep had him longing to be back in the peace and quiet of the medbay, falling asleep in silence and solitude. Even so, he fumed at the perceived infantilisation.

“Tech...”

“Good...good night,” Tech muttered, resting one hand on the little moon-yo, that had now curled up in his lap with no intention of moving, and manoeuvred the chair away and towards the medbay.

Chapter Text

Tech awoke to murmured voices, that his sleep-addled brain couldn’t get decipher. It was probably the best he had slept in a while; he didn’t even remember arriving back at the medbay, let alone getting back into his bunk. He felt somewhat rested, though. Refreshed.

Something warm and furry was curled up against his hand, and he didn’t need to guess what it was. He tried to pet the little creature, but all he managed was a slight twitch of the hand. As rested as he felt, it could never ease the frustration of how slow he continued to be, particularly after waking.

Apparently it was enough, though, as the little moon-yo sprang up with a chirp, scrambling onto his chest.

“Looks like he made a friend,” a familiar voice – Hunter, it was Hunter – chuckled.

“About time he got paternal,” Crosshair muttered, but Tech could tell he was smirking, “With you and Echo playing Mamas and Papas with the kid.”

“I don’t think Tech’s cut out for that life, or even wants it,” Hunter said quietly.

“Don’t act like you haven’t seen how he acts around that pirate,” Crosshair shifted in his bunk, “Blushing bright red, for once finding himself speechless.”

“I know,” Hunter was smiling, “It’s all new to him, though, I think it kinda scares him. Don’t expect any little Techs running around the place anytime soon, if at all.”

“How disappointing,” Crosshair’s words were thick with sarcasm.

Tech opened his eyes, about to interject, but flinched as he was met with a pair of big, non-human eyes staring back at him.

“Good morning,” Hunter smirked.

“Got a name for your new pet?” Crosshair folded his arms.

“W-what?”

“If you’re going to bring that thing in here, at least give it a name,” Crosshair raised an eyebrow.

“I...I don’t...”

“Maybe you should let your girlfriend decide,” Crosshair chuckled, ignoring the nudge Hunter gave him.

“I...I...” Tech hesitated, “She is not...”

“C’mon, ease off him,” Hunter shook his head, looking to Tech, “How are you feeling?”

“No...n-no change,” Tech shrugged lightly.

“Well, I’m here to escort you to a, should I say, meeting,” Hunter glanced at Crosshair, “And to make peace.”

“What-what meeting?” Tech frowned.

“You’ll see,” Hunter smiled, “I’ll help you get you dressed and ready.”

“I...but I did not...I did not agree to-”

“Tech,” Hunter’s face fell, “We all hate seeing you this way. And I understand, but-”

“You do not...do not understand!” Tech snapped, and the little moon-yo squeaked in fear.

Hunter took a deep breath amidst the tense silence, “You’re right, I don’t.”

He sighed, “I’m sorry, vod, I...we just want to help. All of us, we miss our brother.”

“He...he died on Eri...Eri-”

“No, he didn’t,” Crosshair spoke firmly, frowning.

“He’s down, injured, but making good progress,” Hunter put his hand over Tech’s, “And AZI recommends he spends more time outside. Socialise.”

Tech sighed, “I don’t...want...”

“You won’t be alone,” Crosshair’s voice softened, “I’ve been bribed into joining you.”

“Part of the way,” Hunter raised an eyebrow, “Everyone on Pabu just sees you as a hero, Tech, they know what you did. If you’re worried how they’ll look at you, you shouldn’t be. Everyone is behind you.”

Tech was silent, deep in thought, rhythmically stroking the moon-yo.

“What...what does this meeting...meeting entail?”

“There’s no use keeping it a surprise,” Crosshair folded his arms, “That’s not how his brain works.”

“You’re right,” Hunter smiled, turning back to Tech, “Phee wants you to join her for a sail around the island, if you’re up for it.”

“With Echo,” Crosshair smirked, “Unless you two would rather be alone.”

“Phee said it would be best for one of us to join you, just in case,” Hunter said.

“I don’t...” Tech sighed, “I’m not...I don’t think...”

“Hey,” Hunter patted Tech’s shoulder, “If you’re really not up to it, I’m sure Phee will gladly reschedule. But the longer you put things off, the more difficult it will be.”

Tech looked at the floor, saying nothing.

“No one in my squad is giving up,” Hunter folded his arms, “And that’s an order.”

“You...you no longer hold the rank...the rank of Sergeant, Hunter,” Tech met his eyes, raising an eyebrow. Crosshair tried his best to hold back and failed, bursting out laughing. Hunter shook his head in amusement.

“Noted,” he smiled, “C’mon, let's get you up.”

--

“Hold my arms,” Hunter said softly, securely holding Tech’s, “That’s it, now take your time, alright? Don’t rush yourself.”

Tech grunted in pain as he slowly pushed himself up, clutching at Hunter with shaking arms. When he was on his feet he took a few moments, just breathing and steadying himself.

“I’ve got you,” Hunter said quietly, “Can you take a few steps?”

“I-” Tech stuttered nervously.

“I’ll get the chair closer,” Crosshair said as Tech heard the hum of his hoverchair coming closer behind him.

“Just try to step back, just one,” Hunter encouraged, watching the concentration on Tech’s face, “It’s alright if you can’t just yet. Just try.”

As he attempted to lift his foot, Tech’s knees buckled, and he was close to crumpling to the floor. Hunter was too quick, though, holding his brother up in a tight embrace before he could fall.

“It’s alright, it alright,” the former sergeant whispered, as if he were speaking to Omega. He slowly lowered Tech into his chair.

He was silent then, as Hunter helped him to wash and shave and dress, only speaking to insist on wearing his kit – armour excluded, of course. His clothes had survived the fall beside a few scuffs and tears that had since been repaired, although they hung loosely on him due to weeks of bedrest. He wouldn’t wear anything else, though, it was the closest thing to feeling a bit more like himself. There was only one thing missing.

“Ready?” Hunter tried to sound light-hearted with limited success. Crosshair was dressed in a dark blue tunic and pants, ill-fitting but comfortable. He looked far healthier than he had upon his arrival on Pabu.

“Let’s get this over with, huh?” Crosshair patted Tech’s shoulder, which brought the smallest hint of a smile out of him.

The little moon-yo clambered onto his lap, of course inviting herself on the journey. Tech found himself stroking her soft fur as they went, a sufficient distraction from the anxieties swirling in his head. Until they reached the door of the medbay, leading out onto a path down to the square, where seemingly the entirety of Pabu had gathered. They weren’t waiting for him; it was a typical morning of those gathered for prayer, children playing, everyone preparing for a new day. Compared to the deserted medbay, it was positively heaving.

“It’s alright,” Crosshair gave him a light nudge, “If anyone stares too long, they have met to answer to.”

“Cross,” Hunter shook his head in amusement, “I don’t think you need to be on the defense here.”

With a deep breath, Tech ventured out of the medbay, the little moon-yo curling her tiny hand around his thumb with a supportive chirp.

If ever anyone looked at Tech, it was to smile and greet him, commend him for his actions, but otherwise he was left alone. It appeared the people of Pabu knew when one of their own needed their space.

“Tech!” Omega cried as they made their way towards the harbour, “You’re outside!”

“After...after some pers-persuasion,” Tech grunted a laugh.

“And your little baby moon-yo!” Omega squealed, immediately petting the little creature in excitement, “Lyana is going to teach me how to sail, do you want to come too? Can he, Hunter?”

“It wouldn’t be safe, Omega,” Hunter sighed, glancing at Tech, whose face had hardened.

“But...but Lyana knows how to sail, it won’t be just me,” the young girl’s face fell.

“I know, kid,” Hunter tried to smile, “But if anything were to happen, you two couldn’t help Tech if he needed it.”

“But nothing will happen. The water is calm and-”

“Omega,” Hunter repeated in exasperation.

“He’s spoken for anyway,” Crosshair smirked, but Omega had tears in her eyes. Tech’s chest clenched; as much as Hunter was right, he didn’t want two children responsible for him in an emergency, he felt his frustration bristling again. Left just sitting by as his brothers spoke for him.

“An-another time,” he said, forcing a reassuring smile at Omega and yelping as she threw herself at him in a hug. The moon-yo squealed and leapt to safety on Crosshair’s arm, much to his dismay.

“I miss you, Tech,” Omega whispered.

“I-I’m still here,” Tech murmured, letting out a sigh, “I’m sorry I haven’t...I haven’t-”

“Don’t be sorry, Tech,” Omega rested her head on him, head tucked under his chin, “You saved us all.”

Tech patted her back lightly, the overwhelm beginning to take over. Hunter gave Omega a gentle nudge.

“Let’s not crush him to death,” he chuckled as the moon-yo reclaimed her spot on Tech’s lap the moment Omega moved away. The creature chattered up at him happily, “We’d better get going, kid. We’ll see you later, alright?”

“Where are you going?”

“Hey, ‘mega! Breakfast’s up!” Wrecker yelled from Shep’s place.

“Go on,” Hunter smirked. Omega, easily distracted, took off with a wave.

“Why...why didn’t you-”

“Don’t want her getting jealous now, do we?” Crosshair raised an eyebrow.

Hunter sighed, “Omega seems to...not think much of you and Phee becoming so close. And something tells me if she finds out Phee is taking you sailing while she can’t...it’s only going to end in upset.”

“Then...then she can come with us?” Tech frowned, “There is space.”

“I get the impression Phee intended this trip to be...some time to yourselves,” Hunter gestured vaguely.

“But Echo-”

“Echo won’t disturb you,” Hunter smirked, “He wants to see the island, as well as being there for safety.”

“While the kid will just compete for your attention,” Crosshair snickered, “Got all the women fighting over you.”

“Crosshair,” Hunter shook his head with a laugh, and they continued down to the harbour.

Chapter Text

The boat was stocked and ready to go, Echo bringing the last of the food on board as Tech, Crosshair and Hunter reached the harbour. Phee Genoa stood at the starboard bow, looking out at the crystal blue waters ahead of her. The soft, cool breeze rippled through the loose sleeves of her blouse, the morning sun catching the light of the gold nestled among her dark curls. A deep red textured fabric was wrapped around her head, keeping her hair from her eyes.

The moon-yo scampered ahead, chattering excitedly as she leapt aboard the boat, swinging from the mast and rigging to land perfectly on Phee’s shoulder.

“There you are, Chatty, I was starting to think Brown Eyes wasn’t coming,” the pirate scratched the little creature’s ears affectionately, turning to face the clones on the jetty, “Wow, Chuckles makes a public appearance.”

Crosshair scowled, although he failed to hide the hint of a smile. Phee hopped off the boat, kneeling in front of Tech.

“You got all dressed up for me,” she took his hands, smiling coyly. He hadn’t the energy to explain that no other clothes felt correct, like him. He stared down at their hands instead, apparently deep in thought.

“All ready for ya,” Hunter patted Tech’s shoulder, only for Tech to shy away from his touch. Now feeling like an object or pet being passed from one to another, the injured clone shrunk in on himself, avoiding everyone’s eyes. Phee gave his hand a squeeze.

“Might see some dolphins out there, if we’re lucky,” she smiled, “Good weather for them.”

She turned to Echo, “All ready to go, First Mate?”

“Affirmative,” Echo chuckled, “Beautiful weather for it, I’d better make the most of that before-”

“You’re-you’re leaving,” Tech looked up, staring wide-eyed at Echo

“Rex and the others need all the help they can get, Tech,” Echo sighed, “I’ve been gone too long already, not without good reason, of course. But it’s time I got back to them.”

Tech wanted to argue, but he knew it was futile. There was no changing Echo’s mind on such a matter, and he wasn’t wrong anyhow. What he and Rex were doing, it was making a difference, also selfishly Tech couldn’t lose the only brother who didn’t treat him as if he may detonate, perish or collapse any moment.

“I’m not going anywhere just yet,” Echo smiled reassuringly, “Shall we head out?”

Hunter and Crosshair helped Tech into the boat and sat beside Phee, storing his chair in the hold beneath. Chatty, the moon-yo, hopped back onto Tech’s knee before deciding his shoulder provided a much better vantage point. Echo sat up front, enjoying the view and allowing Phee and Tech their space.

“How are you feeling?” Phee put her hand over Tech’s as he stared at the rippling water, a satisfying oscillation of colour and calm sound, “You’re not yourself.”

“Of course...of course I am not!” Tech snapped fiercely. Echo glanced back in concern, “No-no one is treating me as they...as they did before. Instead like a child, a pet, an ob-object. How can I be myself?”

“We’re trying our best, Tech, I promise,” Phee’s face fell, unable to meet his eyes.

“And that’s the problem,” Echo interjected, “You’re all trying too hard.”

He moved to sit beside them, “You can’t treat him as if he’s different, a whole new person that needs coddling, infantilising, and in the same breath claim he isn’t himself.”

Tech watched him gratefully, at least when Echo spoke for him it was as if he was vocalizing his very thoughts.

“Tech is still Tech,” Echo said calmly, “And he deserves to be treated as such.”

“I...” Phee sighed, giving Tech’s hand a squeeze, “I’ll give you two a minute.”

Tech was mumbling to himself as Phee moved to the front of the boat, looking out sadly as the boat sailed out of sight of the harbour.

“I can’t...I-I can’t,” Tech’s voice shook, his hands shaking, “I can’t.”

“If you want to head back, you can,” Echo spoke quietly, “Even just coming out here is a big step, it took a while for me to be comfortable being...well, just being seen.”

“Broke-broken,” Tech clenched his fists, “Broken...failing. I’m failing.”

“Tech,” Echo said, his voice a little firm, “Listen, listen to me, alright?”

“I can’t-”

Chatty jumped from Tech’s shoulder onto his lap, looking up at him with wide eyes and concerned chirps. It was enough to pull Tech’s mind away, he reached a shaking hand to stroke her back. The building anxiety eased away gradually.

“Alright?” Echo asked, and after a few seconds hesitation, Tech nodded.

“I’m sorry, I-”

“Don’t apologise,” Echo said quietly, “You don’t deserve to be infantilised, but at the same time you aren’t expected to be recovered instantly.”

“There they are!” Phee cried in excitement, pointing over at a disturbance in the water. Amidst the seafoam were flashes of purples and pinks, fins, tails.

“Dank farrik,” Echo whispered as Phee steered the boat closer to the dolphins, “I’ve never seen anything like this.”

“Fas-fascinating,” Tech managed to lean out of the boat, clutching at the side, studying the creatures with wonder. Instinctively, he raised his hand to ensure-

“Perhaps you’ll be needing these,” Phee said with a chuckle, taking one of his hands and pressing something familiar into it, “Been working on them since you got back. Echo helped, treasures may be my speciality but the intricacies of gadgets, not so much.”

“No offence, but you don’t look right without them,” Echo chuckled, carefully placing Tech’s beloved goggles back where they belonged, “All in working order.”

“Typical,” Phee smiled as she looked back out at the water, “All this time and they choose now to disappear.”

“Then we pay them for their time,” Echo took a few pieces of fish from the breakfast platter, that had yet to be touched, and tossed them into the water. Within seconds the water was a flurry again, dolphins in various shades of pink and purple leaping and splashing happily around the boat. Tech leaned out as far as he could, knuckles white as he held on tight, seemingly unphased as water splashed his face, his clothes.

“Glorious, aren’t they?” Phee settled beside him, putting an arm around him to support him. She skimmed the water with her other hand, laughing as a dolphin lightly butted her hand with it’s nose.

Most of the breakfast platter ended up in the water, although the three of them did ensure to eat. Reluctantly, Tech allowed Phee to help steady his hands to feed himself. Echo quietly moved back to the front of the boat.

They didn’t talk much, Tech far too focused on all the marine life visible through the clear waters, but it didn’t matter to Phee. With his goggles back where they belonged, eagerly watching, learning, recording, it was rather like Tech was coming back to himself.

The pod of dolphins soon dispersed as the boat continued around the island, but Tech continued to watch the rippling water with his chin rested on his arms.

“Where...Where are you going next?” he asked Phee, who scoffed a laugh.

“Trying to get rid of me, Brown Eyes?”

“You seek...you seek treasure,” Tech finally dragged his eyes away from the water, “Am I...I wrong to assume you have more to...find?”

“Always,” Phee chuckled, “Suppose I’ve gotten too settled here, too busy worrying about you.”

“You...you don’t need to concern yourself with me,” Tech spoke dismissively, “I would say my likelihood of survival at th-this stage is close to, is near to one hundred-”

“I know that,” Phee smiled, “And I’m glad.”

She reached and placed a hand over his, “To tell you the truth, the first couple nights you were here in the medbay, hooked up to all those machines, I didn’t leave, I couldn’t sleep. Couldn’t bear the thought of you being alone if you...”

She shook her head, blinking away tears as Tech studied her face in alarm.

“And then you opened those pretty eyes of yours, long before I think you were even truly conscious. Only a minute or two, then you were fast asleep again. The next day I woke to find you looking at me. Still not really there, no one was home,” Phee laughed to herself, “It was only a matter of time before you truly woke. I knew you’d be confused, have questions, so I couldn’t let you wake up alone either.”

“Th-thank you,” Tech offered her a small, bashful smile, “I can...I can assure you that if I had died while comatose, I wouldn’t have had the faculties to even compre... c-comprehend I was alone. However, I bel-believe it would have brought you comfort, and my squad.”

“I’m glad it never came to that,” Phee said softly, giving his hand a squeeze and leaning closer to him. Tech, although bewildered, did not resist the contact. Echo, engrossed in the scenery, leaning back and taking in the quiet sounds around them, glanced at the pair for a moment and smiled.

“You ever heard of Crait?” Phee asked, patting the little moon-yo as she snuggled up on her lap.

“The min-mineral planet,” Tech said instantly, “What...what about it?”

“That’s one of the next on my list,” Phee smiled dreamily, “Sparsely populated, but their native species really are something.”

“And...treasure?”

“Not really in search of any particular thing,” Phee shrugged, “Not everything is a treasure hunt, sometimes I just like to explore.”

“The...the red salt is said...said to be a popular...popular seasoning,” Tech said, “Although you...y-you must take care to avoid those that s-simply dye regular salt red.”

“Fascinating,” Phee laughed, giving him a nudge, “Want to come with me?”

“I-”

“When you’re ready, Brown Eyes. No rush,” Phee smiled, “We could fly all over the galaxy together, couldn’t we? Find all the hidden treasures.”

Tech looked at her with a smile, giving her hand a small squeeze.

--

“Welcome back,” Hunter smirked as the boat arrived back at the harbour, “Have fun?”

“We ob-observed a plethora of marine life,” Tech said proudly, tapping his goggles, “And...and I recorded everything.”

“Where did they appear from?” Hunter frowned, “I thought they were destroyed.”

“On the contrary,” Phee smirked, “Not beyond repair.”

“Much better,” Crosshair said as he approached the jetty, folding his arms, “Was forgetting what you looked like with those on.”

“Di’kut,” Tech muttered with a low chuckle, and Crosshair couldn’t hide his grin.

Light giggles and booming laughter echoed around as Wrecker charged down to the harbour, carrying Omega and Lyana under each arm.

“Here we are, little fishies, back in the sea!” Wrecker cackled dramatically, running to the end of the pier as if to drop them in. The pair squealed with delight kicking their legs as he lowered them toward the water.

“Aww, alright then,” he grinned, instead carrying them to Lyana’s boat. Hunter and Echo watched with identical soft expressions, and Tech begun to smile himself.

“Hey, Tech!” Wrecker called, a big grin on his face as he bounded over, “First date, huh?”

“Easy there, big guy,” Phee smirked, “Just a morning sail around the island with a friend. Nothing more. Besides, Tech was with us.”

Echo laughed while Tech frowned but chose not to question it.

“She’s messing with you,” Echo patted his shoulder.

“Uh oh,” Crosshair raised an eyebrow, “Someone isn’t happy.”

“Dank farrik,” Hunter sighed, looking over at Omega. At first helping Lyana rig the sails, she had dropped her rope, staring over at Phee’s boat with a look of undeniable betrayal, “I’ll talk to her later, although hopefully she’ll have forgotten about it.”

“What’s wrong?” Phee asked as she took Tech’s chair out of the hold. She noticed Omega and her face fell, “I’m sorry, I didn’t want to-”

“Don’t apologise,” Echo shook his head, “She’s just unsettled, she’ll come around.”

“C’mon then, skipper,” Wrecker grinned, “Onto dry land with you.”

“Wrecker, be careful-” Hunter tried to grab him, but he was too late, Tech was clumsily scooped up into Wrecker’s arms. The large clone’s smile disappeared at Tech’s strangled yelp of pain.

“Put him down,” Crosshair snapped, “Kriff’s sake, he’s not a doll.”

“I didn’t mean to, I didn’t know, I'm sorry,” Wrecker babbled nervously, carefully sitting Tech back into his chair, “You...you alright, Tech?”

“Fine...I’m-I’m fine,” Tech said through gritted teeth, face pinched with pain. He couldn’t bear to see that look on Wrecker’s face any longer.

“I’m so sorry, Tech,” Wrecker repeated, “I-”

“Don’t,” Tech shook his head, “Don’t apologise.”

As the pain in his back began to subside, the rumble of another boat starting up caught his attention. Lyana and Omega were headed out of the harbour, but Lyana was doing most of the work now. Omega was hunched over, trying her best to avoid looking at the crowd nearby. Tech let out a sigh.

“I’m tired,” he mumbled to no one in particular, starting to make his way back up to the medbay with Chatty scampering to join him. The others all looked to one another, unsure who should follow.

Chapter Text

“C-Crosshair,” Tech said quietly, sitting up in his bunk with Chatty asleep on his lap.

“You alright?” Crosshair was laid on his back, arms folded and eyes closed.

“I...I think,” Tech concentrated, although his nerves weren’t helping at all, “I am un-unfamiliar with, w-with such feelings, however-”

“Go on,” Crosshair was sat up in an instant, swinging his legs over the side of the bunk and leaning closer. Tech flinched at the enthusiasm.

“I believe I...I...” he struggled to find the words, “I may have developed...developed feelings for another...individual.”

“Another individual, huh?” Crosshair grinned, “Couldn’t possibly guess who this ‘someone’ is.”

“Phee,” Tech looked at his brother with a frown, “I thought...I thought it would be obvious. Who...who else have I spent a significant amount of time with, with whom I...I do not share a genetic pro-profile?”

“I was teasing, di’kut,” Crosshair snickered, “I think you’re the last one to figure out you’ve got a crush, it’s adorable, actually.”

“I...such feelings have never really been...been known to me,” Tech wrung his hands awkwardly, “I suppose I struggled to process them. I...I still do, in truth.”

“My little brother, all grown up and getting his first girlfriend,” Crosshair gave him a playful nudge.

“I am already...already fully grown,” Tech eyed Crosshair with confusion, “We are long past our growth cycle, Crosshair, and we...we are the same...the same age.”

“Dank farrik,” Crosshair laughed, “I’d almost forgotten not to make jokes around you.”

He moved closer to Tech, “If it helps, I think those feelings are reciprocated.”

“What do I do?” Tech’s voice grew small, “What...what happens...now?”

“Go get yourself one of those ridiculous Jedi romances,” Crosshair snorted, as Tech’s eyes widened in horror, “Talk to her, Tech. Tell her how you feel, invite her to dinner, I know as little about this as you do, I might add. Not exactly got women falling at my feet, not that I want them to.”

Crosshair patted his back, “There’ll be wedding bells before you know it, I’d best start finding an outfit.”

“Wedding?” Tech looked at him, the horror intensifying, “I don’t, I wouldn’t, I...I-”

“Tech,” Crosshair shook his head in amusement, “Take a breath, will you?”

“I...I barely...I barely understand these feel-feelings without the prospect of, of marriage, or all ob-obligations of a relationship. I can’t...I can’t marry, or father a child, or any...anything like that. It’s not what I was built for, I cannot-”

“You don’t have to do anything, Tech’ika. Nothing that you don’t want,” Crosshair’s face softened, “There’s no rulebook for relationships, I know that much.”

“Why did she choose me?” Tech’s quiet voice broke the beat of silence, “Of...of all of us, I am by far the least con-conventionally attractive...and yet...yet upon first sight of us, she picked fault with all...all except me. She called me Brown Eyes, which I still do not...do not understand. Clones, bar a few with minor genetic mutations, have brown eyes. The same brown eyes. Of all...of all features she could have selected, she chose perhaps...perhaps the only thing I share with all clones.”

“Looks aren’t everything,” Crosshair shrugged, “Perhaps that is something else to ask her, if you really want to know. Only she knows the answer.”

He patted Tech’s shoulder, “Just talk to her. Make it clear what you want, what you don’t want.”

“And...and if we don’t want the same things?” Tech looked at him, eyes wide.

“Then you work it out, or perhaps you remain no more than friends.”

Tech failed to stifle a yawn, “The...the concept of romance is still far...far too complex for me to process.”

“You’re not alone there,” Crosshair chuckled, “Get some rest, Tech’ika. You can talk to her in the morning.

--

The sky was beginning to darken as Echo walked by the Archium, admiring the structure as he went. He’d found himself enjoying these evening walks alone, watching the island illuminate as the sun went down, taking in the peace and tranquillity that would soon be hard to come by once he left Pabu. There was no time for relaxing where he was headed, so he would take any moment he could get.

Tech and Crosshair had retired to the medical bay early, and Omega had been sulking for a good portion of the day after an angry rant regarding Tech and Phee’s outing. Hunter was probably practising his carvings on whatever driftwood he could find, a new hobby that he had picked up in the past week or two. Wrecker was either eating or sleeping, and more than satisfied.

As he stopped to take in the view, Echo spotted movement at the side of the Archium. It was Phee, he was sure it was her, slipping out of sight in an instant. Part of him knew he should leave her be, but at the same time she had distanced herself after Tech had left the harbour to rest. Something wasn’t right.

He found her kneeling by a patch of flowers, a pop of colour amidst the deep green vegetation around it. There was something else, a small rock that appeared to have been placed there specifically. Perhaps a headstone.

That alone was enough to stop Echo in his tracks, not wishing to intrude, and he turned to leave her in peace.

“Echo?” her voice startled him, softer than usual, more fragile. Her eyes were red and sparkling, a fresh tear rolling down her cheek.

“I...” Echo looked down, “I shouldn’t have followed you.”

“I shouldn’t be skulking around,” Phee tried to smirk, and let out a sigh.

“What’s wrong?” he stepped closer, “Tech?”

“No, no,” Phee wiped at her eyes, getting to her feet, “Well, I guess, in a way.”

She stood differently, hunched over, arms wrapped around herself, until she forced a smile, “The past few weeks have caught up with me, I guess. Time to get out of your hair, get back to work. Treasures don’t find themselves.”

She went to brush past Echo, “Tell Brown Eyes-”

“You’re not in the way, Phee,” Echo frowned, “Tech wants you around, anyone can see that. Has...has something happened to make you feel this way?”

“No, it’s all me,” Phee smiled sadly, “All in my head.

She shook her head with a sigh, “I just need to get away from this place for a while.”

“You’ve taken care of Tech more than the rest of us combined,” Echo said, “And we’re grateful for that, but you deserve a break. It hasn’t been easy.”

“He’s in good hands, with his brothers – and sister – where he belongs,” Phee was struggling to keep up the smile, “Tell him he’d better be walkin’ by the time I get back.”

Echo chuckled, “Stay safe. Keep in touch.”

“Likewise,” Phee patted his shoulder as she passed, and he followed her until she boarded her ship. She gave him a wave from the cockpit as her ship lifted into the air and disappeared into the night.

Echo remained where he was, staring up at the sky as if the ship would reappear any minute. He couldn’t decide what was worse; sitting down to tell Tech that Phee had left, or him finding out on his own. It wasn’t worth thinking about just yet. It was a discussion for the morning.

Before he could turn in for the night, curiosity got the better of him. It felt wrong, intrusive, and yet he found himself returning to the patch of flowers tucked away beside the Archium. He was right, it was a headstone. His heart sank at the hand-carved name upon it.

Zizi Genoa.

Chapter Text

Crosshair woke early the next morning to find the bunk beside him empty, the hoverchair still in its place. He wasn’t sure whether to be concerned or impressed.

“Tech?” he said cautiously, and chattering in the fresher made him flinch.

“Y-yes, it appears...appears he is awake,” Tech muttered, although not to his brother, “I suppose he can assist.”

“You alright?” Crosshair got to his feet in an instant, “Tech?”

“The door...the door is unlocked,” Tech’s voice sounded pained as Crosshair approached the door. The injured clone was sat on the floor, partially in his clothes, partially in his medical gown, a small stream of blood trickling from his chin.

“Dank farrik,” Crosshair hauled him to his feet, not without difficulty, “Why didn’t you ask me to help you?”

“I...I have to try,” Tech shrugged, “Try to be independent.”

“You won’t get anywhere pushing yourself over your limits like this,” Crosshair groaned, helping Tech take a few steps to his bunk, inspecting the cut on his face, “What happened here?”

“It...It appears that shaking hands are not compatible with...with the process of shaving,” Tech looked away.

“Hunter helped you shave yesterday,” Crosshair smirked, “There’s nothing to shave, and there won’t be for at least another month, you know that.”

“I just wanted...wanted to look...somewhat presentable,” Tech muttered, “That...that is what you are supposed to do, isn’t it?”

“And you didn’t think to ask me?” Crosshair put a hand to his chest dramatically, and Tech only frowned, “You look dashing, Tech, well, once you’re fully clothed. C’mon.”

Finally ready for the day, Tech got back into his chair with Crosshair’s help. Chatty clambered onto his shoulder and nuzzled his face.

“You sure you want that fleabag coming with you?” Crosshair grimaced.

“She...she is quite clean, actually,” Tech said, matter-of-factly, “And yes. She doesn’t...doesn’t appear to have a-any desire to leave.”

“How sweet,” Crosshair muttered, “You know, it’s not too late for a breakfast date for you and-”

“Tech! You’re up early!” Omega was waiting outside their room with AZI, “Echo said he would give me a flying lesson. Well, if you said it was okay, considering, well...”

“I...” Tech frowned.

“AZI said you can come with us, though! If you want to!”

“I said if you fly safely, Omega, which Master Echo did not seem to certain about,” AZI hovered closer to his patient, scanning him without another word.

“I...I expect Echo will ensure of that,” Tech nodded, “I would, w-would like to see your progress.”

“So you’ll come with us?” Omega’s eyes lit up as Tech glanced at Crosshair, who shrugged. Phee could wait, she would understand. He looked back to his sister and nodded.

“Thank you!” Omega’s smile grew bigger than it had in a while, throwing herself at him in a hug. Tech winced, but didn’t say a word.

“Without breaking him,” Crosshair folded his arms with an amused smile.

“Sorry,” Omega pulled away sheepishly, patting Chatty’s head, “Will you come too, Crosshair?”

“I’d rather not bring up my breakfast,” Crosshair muttered, which reminded him he needed to eat breakfast. He patted Tech’s shoulder, “Don’t overexcite yourself up there.”

Echo was waiting on the steps of the Marauder, joined by Hunter. The pair were talking in hushed tones until they spotted the others, concerned expressions disappearing entirely.

“Come to watch the show?” Hunter chuckled.

“It...appears so,” Tech smirked.

“He’s coming with us, Echo!” Omega bounded up the steps, “Tech’s coming too!”
“I don’t think that’s such a good idea, kid,” concern returned to Hunter’s face, “It’s not-”

“I am...I am medically cleared for the flight,” Tech said firmly, “You...you can ask AZI-3...yourself.”

“The droid did clear him,” Crosshair said, “For careful flying.”

“I’ll make sure of that,” Echo smiled, getting to his feet, “Go on, ‘Mega, get her started up.”

Omega had already disappeared into the ship, with barely a “Yes, sir!” as she went. Echo stepped aside to allow Tech to board. The hoverchair stopped abruptly in the doorway.

“Haven’t seen her in a while, have you?” Echo laid a hand on Tech’s shoulder, “Take your time.”

“It...it is just a ship,” Tech mumbled, but he wasn’t sure that was entirely true. He took it all in, everything he had taken for granted all this time. The residual hum of the various systems online and ready to go, the very old posters – mainly Wrecker’s - from the days of the war, peeling off the walls. It smelled different; Hunter or Echo must have given the place a deep clean for something to do. The relief he felt between those four walls, the security, the safety, the calm. Maybe Omega had a point when she said this was their home.

As his eyes scanned the room for all the familiar sights, he shuddered as they came to the weapons rack, at all the blurred, vague memories that came rushing back. That was where he was laid, broken, dying, after Wrecker had picked him up into his arms from the hard rocks of Eriadu. He remembered noting how painful it appeared to be for Wrecker to carry him, that he and the others were badly injured. There was a hand under his head, supporting his neck. Hunter, definitely Hunter. While Wrecker was begging him not to be dead, Hunter only spoke once.

“We’ve got you, vod. Hang in there.”

He had barely been conscious, but he recalled thinking how futile hanging in there felt. His entire body was a mixture of numb and agonising pain, he barely had the strength to breathe, let alone move. He was dying, that much was evident. His impeded, faltering breaths could not sustain him for long, his heart felt as if it may burst or grind to a halt at any moment. His body was heavy, useless. They needn’t have wasted their time.

Something had held him down on the rack, bindings of some kind strapping him down to prevent his injuries from being further disturbed by any jolts. His neck was braced to the best of their ability, a mask placed over his bleeding nose and mouth at least made breathing more manageable. The strongest pain relief and sedative they had on board was injected into his neck and what was left of his consciousness began to slip away. The last he remembered was Wrecker sobbing an apology.

The ship lurched violently, almost sending Tech tumbling out of his chair. Safe to say, he was abruptly dragged out of his thoughts.

“Sorry!” Omega called, and Echo rushed to the cockpit, cursing under his breath. Tech found himself opposite the rack, staring at it without realising he had even moved. Eventually, he tore himself away and followed Echo into the cockpit.

Settling himself into a seat other than his own felt very wrong, but he didn’t say a word. Chatty jumped off his shoulder and onto the top of the pilot seat, where Omega sat, for the best view in the house.

“Can I show you the Tech Turn, Echo?” Omega said eagerly.

“What did AZI say about smooth flying for Tech?” Echo chuckled, “Get us off the ground first, at least.”

“Yes, sir,” Omega said, and the Havoc Marauder shot into the air faster than Tech even thought possible. He and Echo gripped their seats as if their lives depended on it, while Chatty leapt back onto Tech’s lap and clung onto him.

“A...sensible decision,” Tech would have patted her head, but decided against taking the risk.

--

Feeling significantly more nauseated than before, Tech left the Marauder with a headache beginning to form. This wasn’t a rare occurrence.

“Thought the Archium was gonna lose a few storeys for a moment,” Hunter smirked, arms folded.

“But it didn’t!” Omega’s voice was full of pride, “Am I getting better, Tech?”

“Your...confidence is outrunning your skill,” Tech nodded, “But yes.”

“Wrecker will be back from the morning catch soon,” Omega said, already onto the next thing, “Want to come meet him with me, Tech?”

“Give him a chance to recover from that flight,” Hunter raised an eyebrow.

“Besides, there’s someone he needs to speak to,” Crosshair said with a wry smile.

“I can speak for myself,” Tech spoke abruptly, before he noticed something. Only two ships parked beside one another. The Marauder, and Echo’s, “Her...Her ship.”

He looked around as if it might reappear, “Where...”

“Tech,” Echo sighed, “I wanted to tell you-”

“Where is her ship?” his voice grew quiet.

“Phee left last night,” Echo shook his head, “I’m sorry, Tech, I tried to-”

“You knew all this time and didn’t think to tell him?” Crosshair grew fierce, eyes narrowing into a scowl.

“Cross,” Hunter gave him a sharp look.

“I was going to, of course I was!” Echo said defensively.

“I...I can fight my own battles, C-Crosshair,” Tech said, relatively calmly. He avoided the pitiful eyes of the others, “Echo...Echo wasn’t to know. And Phee...Phee is free...free to do as she p-pleases.”

“She’ll come back,” Hunter said, but Tech didn’t look up, “I don’t think anything could keep her away for long.”

“It seemed she just needed a break,” Echo shrugged, “Said she needed to get out of our way.”

“She was in our way,” Omega muttered under her breath.

“What did you say to her?” Crosshair glowered at the young girl.

“Nothing!” Omega held up her hands.

“I’ve seen how you look at her when she dares go near Tech,” Crosshair raised an eyebrow, “You’re-”

“Enough!” Hunter snapped, before letting out a sigh, “’Mega, why don’t you go meet Wrecker down at the harbour, cool off.”

She stomped off in an instant, leaving the others watching her go. Crosshair snorted a harsh laugh.

“Might have guessed she drove her away.”

“Cut it out,” Echo shot him a glare, “Tech, I’m sorry, I-”

“You have...you have no reason to apologise, Echo,” Tech’s voice was flat, monotonous. He winced, shaking hands reaching to hold his head as he hissed at the throbbing in his head. Chatty gave a concerned whimper.

“C’mon, you need to rest,” Hunter patted his brother’s shoulder, “I knew you weren’t ready to fly just yet.”

If the pain hadn’t taken up all his attention, Tech might have snapped back at his former sergeant for coddling him. Instead, he simply allowed him to take him back to the medical bay, where AZI had prepared breakfast – and a small plate of fruit for Chatty.

“I...I have no appetite,” Tech mumbled, rather afraid he might vomit. He got himself back onto his bunk before Hunter could even try to help. No longer being vertical was a welcome relief.

“But, Master Tech, I must insist, you need to-”

“I’ll handle it, AZI,” Hunter waved him away dismissively. The droid gave a dejected “yes, Master Hunter,” before floating out of the room and leaving it silent.

“You alright?” Hunter asked cautiously.

“If...if you attempt to force feed me...”

“I won’t,” Hunter laughed, “Just rest, you need to go easier on yourself.”

Tech remained silent, eyes closed.

“Want me to grab AZI for some painkillers?” Hunter asked.

“Please,” the word came out slowly, as a pained groan.

“Coming right up,” he ducked out of the room for barely a second, and after a small scratch, Tech’s pain began to ease, “Better?”

“Significantly,” Tech opened his eyes a fraction.

“I should leave you alone, get some rest,” Hunter hovered by the door.

“Why...why would she believe she is in...in our way?” Tech mumbled, “And why...Omega said...”

Hunter ran a hand through his hair, which was longer than he had ever let it grow before. Once or twice, Tech had seen he had tied it up; it seemed he had no intention of cutting it anytime soon.

“I think,” Hunter looked down with a sigh, “I think Phee may have overheard a...conversation Omega and I had.”

“What did she say?” Tech sat up abruptly, a decision he regretted almost immediately. Hunter helped him to lean on the pillows.

“She was upset. All this...it’s been hard on all of us, I think all the change and uncertainty has been too much for Omega especially. And, well, it seems she’s directed all that onto Phee.”

Tech frowned, “To Phee?”

“Not directly. But yesterday after the whole sailing incident, she just broke down, ranting that Phee was interfering with us, that you didn’t want her around, that she was in our way. I don’t think she meant it, not really. But with Phee taking off like that, I can’t help but wonder if she heard,” Hunter looked at Tech sympathetically.

“I...but I do want...want her around,” Tech stuttered, “I...I was going to...”

Hunter’s eyes softened, “Guess I owe Wrecker five credits.”

Tech frowned, “Why?”

“He bet you would ask her out within the week,” Hunter chuckled, “Admittedly, I didn’t think you had it in you.”

Tech was silent, deep in thought got s moment, “It seems it may not be done by the end of the week, so you may yet gain five credits.”

“Good point,” Hunter grinned, “She’s great for you, Tech, really. Not that you need my approval.”

“I am...not sure I have my own approval,” Tech closed his eyes a moment, his speech slow and tired, “I am still...still uncertain I have the cape-capability to sustain such a relationship.”

“You’ve never been afraid to try anything before,” Hunter sat beside the bunk.

“This is different,” Tech sighed, “Social matters are different to...scientific theory.”

“Not really,” Hunter shrugged.

“If...Phee...Phee and I...if we enter a relationship with one an-another. Omega will not...” Tech’s voice trailed off.

“Omega will come around,” Hunter gave him a reassuring smile, “She’ll have to, your relationships are your decision, not hers. She’ll adapt, like we all do.”

--

Tech woke in the late evening, the sky outside with barely a trace of sunlight. His headache had subsided, thankfully. Hunter had managed to persuade him to eat before he dozed off, but it felt as if he hadn’t eaten in days. Perhaps AZI would fetch him something.

Crosshair was asleep in the next bunk, laid on his back with his arms folded. Usually that meant a good few hours of him stewing over something in his head, before finally drifting off. He continued to scowl even when unconscious.

He couldn’t get her out of his head. Why had she left without a word? Did she really believe he found her bothersome, an annoyance? Tech might not be one to show explicit affection, but he thought at least he wouldn’t have given such an impression. Perhaps he didn’t mean as much to her as he had initially thought.

Lying in the medical bay wasn’t going to solve anything, but what other choice did he have? Everyone around him – even Echo – would tell him to simply wait an undetermined amount of time until she returned. But what if she never came back? What if something – or someone – else caught her and and led her elsewhere? Worse still, what if her next treasure hunting endeavours led her into danger she could never return from? His mind was spiralling into “what if”s before he could stop himself, and without a second thought he had hauled himself up into his chair. Chatty woke with a start and followed with a confused chirrup, settling onto his lap.

The grounds of the Archium were silent and deserted, and he was glad of it. The last thing Tech needed was anyone questioning what he was doing out alone, concerned about his independence. He made it onto the ship without a word to anyone, straight to the comm panel and tapping in the channel for Phee’s ship.

“Havoc-1? Or 1 through 5, I guess?” Phee’s voice was distorted, muffled. The signal was patchy, too long range to be sustained, “You there?”

“Phee?” Tech spoke cautiously, “Do...do you copy?”

“Hello?” Phee’s voice broke up, until two words came through somewhat audibly compared to the rest, “...Brown Eyes?”

“It’s...me,” Tech did his best to boost the signal, pinpoint her location, anything, “Where-”

“I...” the signal dropped, “hear you....reckon the salt makes....signal all fuzzy...”

“Salt,” Tech muttered under his breath, until the signal was strong enough for a moment to pinpoint it. She said she would wait for him, they could go together. It appeared she had changed her mind. He disconnected the signal – it was useless anyway – and slumped in his chair a moment. Until he turned toward the pilot seat and pushed himself up on his chair. He groaned with the effort, clutching at the other seats as he passed. His legs shook, his still fragile back starting to ache, knuckles white as he gripped the seats for support. Tiny step after tiny step, he huffed a frustrated sigh as his faltering pace. Chatty leapt from seat to seat, waiting patiently for him to reach the next.

Just a few more steps, a few more unsupported steps between the passenger seats in the pilot seat. He’d come this far, he could-

With a twisted cry of pain he hit the hard floor with a thud, eyes squeezed shut in agony. The pain took over his mind, so much so that his body felt impossibly heavy. His arms tried and failed to push him up. Chatty was beside him in an instant, chattering fearfully, tugging at his hair, his arm to no avail. A tear leaked from Tech’s eye as he laid there, crumpled in a heap, forced to remain there until someone came looking.

Thankfully, it didn’t take long.

“Dank farrik,” Crosshair breathed as he rushed aboard the ship with Chatty on his arm, “What in the karking hell are you playing at?!”

“Crait,” Tech choked out the word, letting out a low whimper of pain, “She’s...she’s gone. I have to-”

“You’re not going anywhere in this state,” Crosshair sighed, carefully hauling him up. Tech gritted his teeth with the pain, “Sorry, vod. Sorry.”

Crosshair sat him in the pilot seat, “I’m getting AZI. Don’t move, alright?”

He made it as far as the entry ramp, just as it lifted. The ship began to power up.

“What are you doing?!” Crosshair rushed back to the cockpit, “Are you insane?!”

“Quite...quite possibly,” Tech muttered, the time away from the ship making no difference to his piloting efficiency.

“Tech, you can’t-” Crosshair sighed, a battle with a particularly stubborn Tech was rarely won. At the same time, the thought of forcing him back to that room, that stifling room, the stifling, overbearing treatment of everyone acting as if he may break, was unthinkable. His brother was at his happiest piloting the Marauder, figuring out a problem to be solved. More recently, this pirate he was ready to fly across the galaxy for had made him smile more than seemingly anyone else ever had. He knew it was reckless, dangerous, very much ridiculous. But he found himself relenting, “Alright. Okay. Okay. Look, let’s at least think this through before you jet us off into hyperspace for kriff knows how long. Have you charted the course, how long is the journey, is the ship stocked up? And maybe, just maybe, you shouldn’t be flying off on an adventure alone when you can barely even stand!”

Tech’s shoulders dropped, the engines powering down.

“I...you are right,” Tech’s voice was quiet, crestfallen, “But I...I have to find her, Crosshair. I have to...have to tell her...”

“I know,” Crosshair sat beside him, “That came out a little harsher than I wanted, I’m sorry.”

He sighed in disbelief at himself, “I’ll get supplies, and I should probably drag the droid along for good measure. I swear, if you go flying off while I'm gone-”

“I won’t,” Tech looked up at him, “Thank you, Cross.”

“I always thought it was Wrecker that would be the death of me,” Crosshair smirked, before darting off the ship to gather supplies.

Chapter Text

"Master Tech, I must insist you return to the medical bay!” AZI exclaimed the moment Crosshair dragged him aboard, “You are not strong enough to-”

“Yeah, that’s not gonna work,” Crosshair rolled his eyes, “I didn’t bring you here to stop him.”

“But my programming-”

“Fire up the ship,” Crosshair let go of the droid, settling into the co-pilot seat, “I still can’t believe I’m doing this.”

“Neither...Neither can I,” Tech muttered, huffing a frustrated sigh as his body refused to work the controls as fast as he used to. Crosshair reached to help, and soon enough they were in the air and out of the planet’s atmosphere. The course was set, and before they knew it, they were in the blur of hyperspace.

“You are travelling to Crait,” AZI hovered at the computer terminal, “I trust that you have brought appropriate protective gear. Mineral storms are a common occurrence, and their danger is not to be underestimated. Protective eyewear is also recommended, given that at the peak of daylight, the brightness of the landscape can be blinding.”

“Would have been good to know that beforehand,” Crosshair glanced at Tech with a raised eyebrow. Tech looked away, his frustration not subsiding. He never set a course for a new planet without ensuring the correct preparations were in order, but in this case, he had been so eager to leave that any possible danger hadn’t even crossed his mind.

“I shall scan the contents of this ship for anything that may be of use,” AZI turned away, “Master Tech, I urge you to please rest. You should not be piloting a ship in your state of health.”

“I...shall rest here,” Tech didn’t budge from his seat. The droid knew better than to argue and went to examine the crates on board.

“You should eat, at least,” Crosshair said, opening a box of rations and holding it out to his brother. Reluctantly, Tech took one, turning his seat away to slowly eat with his shaking hands.

--

Tech was fast asleep, despite being in an uncomfortable, hunched over position in the pilot seat. Crosshair watched the swirl of hyperspace, a sight that had once been familiar, a comfort. He would sit back in the gunner’s mount – now seemingly belonging to the kid – and take it all in, taking a quiet moment away from the others both to prepare himself, and wind down after the fact. His sharp sight could only handle it for a short while before it began to disorient him, he had no idea how he used to bear it. That all felt like a distant memory now, even if this impromptu journey felt like no time had passed at all for himself and Tech.

AZI had powered down to conserve his batteries, while still monitoring Tech’s vitals for safety. All was quiet, aside from the hum of the engines.

Until the box of rations clattered to the floor behind him, stirring Tech and sending Chatty leaping up onto the back of the pilot seat to investigate. Crosshair swivelled in an instant to find the culprit.

“Oh, fantastic,” he muttered, as the small figure hurriedly tried to pick up the spilled rations.

“What-” Tech said groggily, looking at his brother in confusion, struggling to turn his own chair.

“Any spare rations?” Omega’s voice was quiet, sheepish.

“What are you-” Tech frowned in concern, “How...”

“I didn’t do it on purpose,” Omega said defensively, “What are you doing leaving Pabu when you’re supposed to be resting?”

“Going after the one you scared off,” Crosshair folded his arms.

“I didn’t, I...” Omega looked at Tech, “You’re going to find Phee?”

“No thanks to you,” Crosshair sneered.

“Crosshair,” Tech snapped, “You do- do not speak for me!”

Omega looked a little triumphant for a moment.

“And neither...neither do you,” her smile disappeared as Tech turned to her, “I know what you said about her. What she may have overheard. I think you know me less than you...you claim to.”

Tech huffed a sigh, “My...my feelings for Phee do not...do not impact my feelings for my brothers, or my sister. I can care for both, and in different ways.”

“But she-”

“If I...I didn’t want her around I would have told her,” Tech spoke firmly, “I am told I am less cautious of others’ feelings than...others are.”

“She was taking you away from us,” Omega’s eyes filled with tears, “She was always there. She wouldn’t leave you alone.”

“She...Phee has no intention of such things,” Tech shook his head, “She does not expect me to break ties with my siblings to devote my time solely to her. She knows...she knows what our squad is, and she is not trying to remove me from it. I would not let her.”

Omega moved closer to the pilot seat, and Tech shifted over so she could sit beside him. It was a bit of a squeeze, but she curled up beside her big brother regardless. He put a hand on her shoulder.

“I’m sorry, Tech,” Omega mumbled, “I didn’t mean to...I just...it felt like everything was changing.”

“It will, to a degree, I suppose,” Tech said, “I am unsure what I should expect, in truth. But I can assure you, I will always be your brother.”

Omega started to cry, burying her head in his side, “Have I messed things up? With you and Phee.”

“No...no, I’m sure she will understand,” Tech slowly closed his eyes, his mind beginning to cloud.

“You’re in love with her,” Omega sniffled.

“I suppose...suppose that is one way to put it,” he raised a shaking hand to rub his temples.

“Are you alright?” Omega wiped at her eyes, looking up at him with a frown, “Tech?”

“Just a...Just...” Tech couldn’t find the words; the ship was starting to spin, “Perhaps you should alert...”

Chatty whimpered and bounded from chair to chair and out of the cockpit, and only then did both Tech and Omega notice that Crosshair had left them alone.

“Tech? Tech!” Omega cried as her brother slumped in the seat with what sounded like a whimper, “Crosshair! Come quick, its Tech!”

“What the-” Crosshair rushed back into the cockpit, Chatty clambering up his leg and onto his arm, only for a newly reactivated AZI to speed past him.

“Stand aside, Omega,” the droid spoke calmly, as his patient began to convulse, “Master Tech is experiencing another Tonic-Clonic seizure, and his movements may unintentionally cause you injury.”

Without a word, Crosshair put a hand on Omega’s shoulder and gently moved her back, watching his brother sadly. Omega stepped closer to him.

“Can’t you do something?” she said pleadingly to AZI, “Can’t you stop it?”

“I cannot interfere, nor treat Master Tech until the seizure has subsided,” AZI kept a close watch over Tech, “I can only ensure he is safe.”

“He knows what he is doing,” Crosshair spoke calmly, flinching in surprise as Omega turned and hid her face in his side, clutching at him. After a moment’s hesitation, he put an arm around her and turned away; he too could not bear to watch any longer. Chatty whimpered quietly and moved onto Omega’s shoulder, where the young girl took her and hugged her close.

“I advise Master Tech be moved to the weapon’s rack, where he can lay down and recover,” AZI said once Tech was still once more, “This is precisely why I did not recommend he undertake this journey.”

“I tried to tell him,” Crosshair sighed, “But his mind was made up.”

“I suggest we change course and return to Pabu,” AZI looked to the ship’s controls.

“No!” Omega cried, “We’ve come this far, we can’t give up on him now!”

“I cannot provide optimum care in these conditions, Omega,” AZI said, “I must-”

“What does he need?” Crosshair cut in.

“Rest,” AZI said firmly, the usually placid droid beginning to sound angry, “When Master Tech wakes he may be disoriented and confused, he is in no fit state to travel.”

“We’re almost halfway to Crait,” Crosshair glanced to the map, “We’ll land, the kid and I will grab Phee, and we’ll be on our way back.”

“Crait is an uninhabited planet, there will be no medical facilities to help him,” AZI hovered in front of Tech, as if guarding him, “I must do what is right by my patient.”

“Try telling that to him when he wakes,” Crosshair muttered.

--

Groggy and feeling as if his head were stuffed with bantha wool, Tech slowly opened his eyes. He was laid on the weapons rack with a blanket draped over him, Lula tucked under his arm. His head throbbed, and for a moment he was certain he was about to vomit. Chatty was curled up by his chest, awake and watching him. She made a soft chirp as her big eyes met his.

“Master Tech, you are awake,” AZI floated towards him, “Unfortunately you experienced a second tonic-clonic seizure, four hours ago. There is a high likelihood that this will continue for the remainder of your life, but that is something I can help you to manage. How are you feeling?”

Tech groaned quietly, trying to navigate forming a simple sentence felt like wading through sinking sands. He couldn’t even quantify how he was feeling, let alone put it into words. He supposed that in itself was an indicator to what state he was in.

“Rest, Master Tech. When Master Crosshair and Omega are willing to cooperate with me, and once we exit this hyperspace lane, we shall be rerouting back to Pabu, where-”

“No,” Tech choked out, panic flaring in his slowly waking mind, “Crait.”

“Don’t worry, Tech. That’s where we’re going,” Crosshair said with a small smile, “Told you he wasn’t gonna like it, tin bin.”

“Do not increase your stress levels, Master Tech,” AZI spoke calmly, “Perhaps I should administer a dose of sedative...”

“Stop it!” Omega cried, “This isn’t fair! Tech needs to get to Phee, I won’t let you put him to sleep just to shut him up!”

“That is not my intention, I-”

“We’ll take it from here,” Crosshair gave the droid a small shove, “Conserve your power and activate only in an emergency. I didn’t bring you to dictate the mission.”

AZI’s emotionless face looked crestfallen, “Yes, Master Crosshair.”

The three of them watched as the droid retreated to a corner and powered down, still silently processing the vitals data transmitted from the monitor on Tech.

“Take it easy,” Crosshair said, kneeling beside the rack, “I guess the kid can practise her flying with my supervision. We’ll get you there in one piece.”

Tech gave one small nod, staring up at the rack above him. He wished he could make himself more comfortable, but his limbs wouldn’t cooperate, they felt too weighed down. This was a similar sensation experienced after waking from his first seizure, so he assumed – and hoped – he would regain the feeling with some time. The last thing he needed was for paralysis to set in before a significant life event that laid ahead. It wouldn’t change how Phee saw him, not after all this time. She had been there when he was at his lowest, she fed him when his hands wouldn’t cooperate, helped him in the fresher without batting an eyelid. She could see the humiliation in his eyes and did her utmost to help him forget about it.

He replayed what AZI had said in his mind. A high likelihood that these seizures may continue to occur for the rest of his life. He supposed the frequency of them would be random, unpredictable. As such, could he ever really return to how he was before? Besides Echo, everyone seemed ready to retire, to settle on Pabu and live out the rest of their days there. They had once assumed, though, that they would live out their days serving the Republic. The Empire hadn’t reached Pabu yet, but they could. This new home could be destroyed before them, and then where would they be?

He would only slow them down in his new state, he was a liability. What had once been his greatest asset could now be his greatest obstacle. How could he be trusted if he could collapse at any moment? A tear leaked from his eye as he felt Chatty cling to his finger with both her paws, letting out a quiet chirrup.

Chapter Text

The cockpit was silent, Crosshair keeping an eye on the controls as Omega sat with her knees up to her chest.

“I’m sorry,” she sniffled, “I wish I never said those things.”

Crosshair glanced at her and let out a sigh, “She still might have left, and Tech might still have had a second seizure, albeit in a better place.”

“Everything keeps changing,” the young girl let out a sob, “I just want it to stop. I want it to be how it was. Echo not leaving all the time and Tech is alright and-”

“I’m still with the Empire,” Crosshair muttered.

“No, no!” Omega looked at him, wide eyed, “That’s...I guess that’s the one thing I would change. That you came with us when we left Kamino.”

“Perhaps if I had, we could have hidden,” Crosshair shook his head, “Tech would never have had to risk his life to get me out of that place.”

“It’s not your fault,” Omega wiped her eyes, “It was the chip.”

“Until it was damaged on Bracca and removed. Everything after that was all me,” he folded his arms.

“They manipulated you, Crosshair. They made you feel like they valued you, that you were superior. Until they found something better. But the reason you’re here is because you chose to warn us, and you risked everything doing that. That was so brave of you.”

“Brave,” Crosshair laughed bitterly, “Not a word I would associate with myself.”

“You should!” Omega got to her feet, grabbing his hands, “Every single clone I’ve met is brave, but you might just be one of the bravest.”

Crosshair’s eyes softened a moment, a small part of him wishing to pull her into a close embrace and protect her from any harm that ever came her way. Perhaps that was the paternal part of him - of all the clones - that had seemingly activated for his former squad upon sight of her, that for him had laid dormant until now. Instead, he blinked away the sting of tears threatening to form, gave her hands a small squeeze and pulled away.

“Go check up on Tech,” Crosshair nodded toward the door, “You should probably rest too.”

“I’m annoying you,” Omega looked down.

“I’ve known Wrecker all might life, it takes a lot more to irritate me,” Crosshair smirked, “Go, we’ve got a few hours yet.”

--

Tech drifted in and out of consciousness for the remainder of the flight, sometimes awake enough to focus, other times half-asleep and barely stringing a coherent sentence together. Omega remained by his side, though, and regularly checked in with AZI – who still wasn’t pleased about this impromptu adventure – to ensure that his vitals were still functioning normally. Chatty kept her place curled up beside him, enjoying some fuss when he was awake enough to acknowledge her, and accepting some fruit and nuts from Omega.

“We’re almost there, Tech,” Omega smiled, her brother’s eyes seeming more focused and alert, “How are you feeling?”

“Sati-satisfactory,” Tech slowly pushed himself up into sitting, “I...I am sorry for acting so...so reckless. I did not intend-”

“You didn’t know I was on the ship,” Omega giggled, “You’re...you’re in love with her, aren’t you? Phee?”

Tech paused thoughtfully, “I...suppose that is one manner of describing it.”

“Why else would you fly across the galaxy in your state?” Omega smiled.

“I would...I would have done...done the same for-”

“I know, which shows how much she means to you,” Omega sat beside him on the rack and let out a sigh, “I’m really sorry, Tech.”

“Not...not your fault,” Tech shrugged slightly, “Perhaps...perhaps I misread her intentions. She may...perhaps she does not see me in this light.”

“Are you joking?” Omega laughed, “She’s crazy about you, Tech! Everyone could see it!”

“I cannot give her what a partner might expect,” Tech shook his head.

“I think she cares for you, not what she could get from you,” Omega shrugged.

“That may be so...but...but there are expectations-”

“Don’t tell me you’re having second thoughts this close to Crait,” Crosshair’s voice startled the pair of them, “We’ve been over this already, Tech. Don’t quit before you even know how she feels. Especially not when you’ve dragged us all this way.”

Something bleeped from the cockpit.

“Speaking of which, time to get us out of hyperspace,” Crosshair helped Tech get to his feet and take a few steps over to the seats with safety restraints, and ensured he was secure, “Want to help land, kid?”

“I can?”

“C’mon,” Crosshair was already rushing back to the cockpit, Omega flashed an excited grin at Tech before bolting after him. Chatty clung onto Tech’s vest and made a small chirping sound.

“You will be pleased to know that I located your armour in the hold of the vessel, Master Tech,” AZI hovered to his patient, “And I have repaired the damage sustained when you fell. This should provide a level of protection from the elements in the case of a salt storm, although I advise that we all remain on board in the event of such a thing. No skin should be left exposed, due to high risk of painful injury.”

“Search...search for her when we land,” Tech said, “We...likely we will land near to her ship if the location is accurate.”

“Master Crosshair will need additional eye protection due to his heightened visual sensitivity,” AZI said, as if Tech hadn’t spoken at all, “I’m afraid there is little protective material available that he and Omega can use, however I cannot allow you to leave this vessel alone. In the case of a salt storm, you will therefore need to wait until it has subsided.”

Tech huffed out a sigh, focusing instead on the little moon-yo on his lap. She chirped and nuzzled against his chest, making a purring sound as he shakily stroked her head.

The Havoc Marauder landed relatively smoothly into a ravine surrounded by high rock formations. Sure enough, Phee’s ship was right there waiting for them, although upon closer inspection by AZI, there was no one inside. AZI widened his search upon Crosshair’s orders and picked up a faint heat signature from within a cavern, the entrance of which was down a steep slope beside Phee’s ship. There was no guarantee it was Phee, however the droid confirmed it was likely a human he was detecting. Native species to Crait appeared to have a lower body temperature.

“Let’s...we have to find her,” Tech was in his hoverchair and ready to go, Chatty perched on his shoulder.

“Tech-”

“What if she’s hurt?” Omega frowned, “We should find her and make sure she’s safe!”

“Don’t put ideas in his head,” Crosshair rubbed his temples, “The brightness out there is already giving me a headache, there’s no way I can get out there in daylight.”

“But we can’t give up now!” Omega cried, “We’re so close!”

“Omega, once the storm arrives, no vessel will be capable of taking off, there is nowhere she can-”

“Dank farrik,” Crosshair cursed, as the entry ramp closed back up.

“Master Tech must not leave the ship unaccompanied while he remains vulnerable from the seizure!” AZI’s mechanical voice was panicked as he too exited the ship.

“I’ll go with him!” Omega rushed to follow him, only for Crosshair to grab her arm.

“You have nothing to protect yourself out there,” he hissed, letting out a sigh, “I forgot how stubborn he can be.”

--

It was time to go. Phee’s datapad had been bleeping at her for the past few minutes and she knew she couldn’t silence it much longer. She’d lingered long enough, any more and she’d be bunking down in this cave with what little food and water she had left in her pack.

It was meant to be research only, scouting out the best place for them to explore. Curiosity had got the better of her, though – her most fatal of flaws – and she’d followed a small stream through the caverns, illuminated by glowing crystals that varied in colour as she went on. There were fish in the stream, crystalline fish that glowed in the light as if they were made of glass. Finally she had reached the end, where the stream fed into a small lagoon with a soothing babble that echoed all around her. As a skulk of vulptices settled to drink from the lake, the cubs playfully splashing their paws, Phee had settled herself to drink from her canteen. This was definitely the place, although whether the hoverchair would manoeuvre over such terrain was another matter entirely. Perhaps this was one to wait on, to see if Tech’s mobility improved.

As the storm warning alarm continued, Phee tucked the canteen and pouch of dried fruit into her pack before following the stream back the way she came. Not without picking up a glowing purple crystal that had broken off from the cave wall. She always needed a souvenir.

She tucked her protective cloak around herself, bringing the goggles over her eyes and covering up her face. The hood would provide some extra protection. If she was quick, she should get back to the comfort of her ship just before the storm truly hit. Once it passed, she could get back to-

“Chatty?” Phee at first was convinced she was imagining things, but the little pop of colour amidst the bright white of outside was definitely real. The little moon-yo she had last seen on the boat at Pabu scrambled up her leg and hid under her cloak, tugging at her sleeve with urgent chirps and squeaks, “What are you doing here? How?”

As if she needed an answer, why did she ever assume he wouldn’t find a way to follow her, especially after leaving him with not so much as a goodbye. With the panic in Chatty’s chirrups, though, she feared the consequences of her actions.

“Where is he?” she said urgently, “Show me.”

The moon-yo cowered under her cloak, quivering and afraid of the storm she could likely sense. Phee began to run, red and white salt crystals spraying behind her, silently praying that he was alright, uninjured, just simply lagging behind with the speed of his hoverchair. She prayed Chatty was only so scared of the oncoming storm.

She knew the red was the soil, but it didn’t ease her alarm at the sight of him.

The perfect white was now swirls of pink and red as the crystals were disturbed and mixed. The hoverchair had seemingly malfunctioned and collapsed, smoking. In front of it, a tall figure attempting to push himself up.

“Tech!” the rush of panic and relief had tears soaking into her face covering. Her voice was too muffled, he didn’t look up, and his arms gave way beneath him. She only ran faster.

He was wearing his armour, all but the belt, visible soldier joins all over the helmet and chestplate in particular. It must have been the only thing he had to protect himself from the storm, although it was to his detriment as it weighed him down further. She threw herself down beside him.

“Are you alright? Tech?” she let out a sob, “What are you doing here?”

“You...” Tech lifted his head slowly, his voice crackling from the damaged helmet, “I f-found you.”

“Let’s get you up, but your chair,” Phee sighed, “Did you come alone?”

“You...You went...you said you would...you went...went without me,” Tech grunted in pain.

“I know...I know, I’m sorry,” she carefully moved him so she was cradling his torso in her arms. His eyes were distant through the helmet, unfocused and clouded with pain, “I’m sorry, Brown Eyes.”

“The...storm.”

“Can you walk?” Phee prepared herself to haul him to his feet.

“Un...uncertain,” Tech’s eyes squeezed shut, “I...I-”

“Master Tech!” AZI swooped down from seemingly nowhere, “I forbade you from leaving the ship unaccompanied!”

He scanned his patient, “Your femur has substained a fracture, although it appears it has already done so before and failed to heal correctly. I warned you that this-”

“You can lecture him later, we need to get him to shelter!” Phee had to shout over the slowly increasing sound of the storm. She went to absentmindedly stroke Tech’s hair, only to meet the hard plastoid of his helmet.

AZI made quick work of converting the hoverchair into it’s stretcher form, “We can carry him on this. Please, take care laying Master Tech onto it.”

“You’re gonna be alright, Tech, you hear me?” Phee carefully shifted towards the stretcher, “And I’m not going anywhere, I’m never letting you risk yourself like this for me again.”

“Phee,” he let out a whimper of pain, “Phee...”

“I will administer pain relief and a sedative,” AZI approached, syringe prepared, “Transporting him back be-”

“Let him speak!” Phee snapped as she finally managed to get Tech comfortably on the stretcher.

“I...” Tech winced as the liquid was injected into his neck. He immediately became disoriented, but reached and grabbed her hand weakly as he began to drift out of consciousness, “I do...I do not wish to have children.”

Chapter Text

“Dank farrik,” Crosshair muttered as he and Omega watched Phee and AZI bring Tech back on a stretcher. Omega ran outside before he could stop her.

“What happened?” she cried, “Tech?”

“He’ll be alright, kiddo,” Phee’s voice shook, “Get inside, my ship has a proper bunk he can rest on. Get Chuckles and we can ride out the storm together.”

By the time Omega and Crosshair had made it onto Phee’s ship – Crosshair practically blindfolded to protect his eyes – Tech had been transferred to the bunk, armour carefully removed, AZI watching closely, Phee sat beside him tousling his hair.

“What are we gonna do with you, huh, Brown Eyes?” she whispered, leaning forward to kiss his temple. She looked back at Crosshair and Omega with a smile, “I’ll take him back to Pabu when the storm clears. I think we’ve got a lot to talk about. Lucky for you, I’ll take the droid too.”

“Can I -” Omega started, but Crosshair put a hand on her shoulder and shook his head.

“Just you and me, kid,” he smirked.

“Perhaps Master Tech will learn to listen to my orders now,” AZI said, “I only give orders that are in his best interests.”

“He’ll be on his best behaviour from now on, we’ll make sure of that,” Phee looked to Omega, “Right?”

“Right,” Omega nodded, posture straightening.

Crosshair attempted to sleep off the migraine that had developed from the brightness of the landscape as AZI continued to monitor Tech. Phee and Omega leaned back in the pilot seats, watching the storm rage outside.

“I’m sorry I made you leave,” the young girl mumbled, “I didn’t mean what I said, I-”

“It wasn’t you,” Phee put her feet up on the controls, “Well, only a little. And I shouldn’t have been eavesdropping.”

“But I didn’t help, and now Tech is hurt, and he had another seizure on the way here and AZI thinks they’ll keep happening, and-” Omega brought her knees up to her chest.

“Hey,” Phee looked at her with a smile, “If it makes you feel any better, Tech was the one to get himself in an even worse state by choosing to repeatedly ignore the three of you trying to look out of him. And I’m the one that left him without a word.”

“Why did you leave?” Omega asked, “If it wasn’t me?”

“I already felt I was in the way,” Phee shrugged, “And in the midst of caring for Tech, I forgot something. Something important to me. I guess everything got too much, just had to get away. Didn’t really think before heading here, in the moment I’d forgotten even telling him about it.”

She chuckled to herself, “You know, right before AZI knocked him out, he told me he didn’t want kids.”

“What?” Omega couldn’t help but laugh also, “He told me he wanted to tell you how he felt, he didn’t say anything about kids.”

“I guess in all the excitement, his mind ran away with him,” Phee smirked, “Jumping straight to the next thing.”

“Do you feel the same?” Omega looked at her, “Are you in love with him too?”

“I suppose I’m rather taken with him,” Phee smiled wryly, “Although he’s clearly clueless in that department, it’s adorable.”

“He knows enough to come all this way,” Omega smiled with her, “I know what I said, but I was wrong. You make him happy, and that makes me happy, too.”

“I’m glad to have your blessing,” Phee glanced back to the other seat, where Crosshair had dozed off with his eyes covered, “I’m sure I’ll get the old “if you break his heart” speech from Chuckles when he wakes up.”

“I like your ship,” Omega looked around, “There’s so much space.”

“Because you’re used to being cooped up in a ship that ain’t meant to be lived in,” Phee chuckled, swivelling her chair to look at the rest of the room, “One of the first things I bought with my own credits, she takes me on all my adventures.”

“It’s amazing,” Omega got up, taking in all the space. Crosshair asleep by a small workspace, Tech in the only bunk.

“Even got a ‘fresher,” Phee folded her arms, “With a shower, if I remember to fill the tank.”

“Really?” Omega scampered over to peek inside, “Woah, now that’s what the Marauder needs.”

“I mean, I never wanted to say it, but that ship of yours has...well, I’d say those boys could use a shower on board,” Phee grinned.

“What’s this?” Omega was onto the next thing already, approaching what looked like a small shelf. Panic flared through Phee for a moment.

“It’s nothing, it’s just-”

“Are they toys?” Omega knelt down to inspect the various objects; a small tooka doll and some other plushes, a wooden starship and a drawing, “Zizi Gen-”

“Don’t touch that!” Phee snapped, getting to her feet and snatching the paper away, “Sorry...sorry, it’s just...it’s just little things I’ve collected on my travels. Stuff I had as a kid.

Her shoulders sagged, “I’m sorry, kiddo, I shouldn’t have snapped like that.”

“I’m sorry,” Omega smiled cautiously, “Sometimes I’m too curious for my own good.”

“Tech’s influence, I assume,” Phee raised an eyebrow, sitting back down again and galcning at him, fast asleep, “He’ll be alright, Omega. I know everyone keeps saying that, I’m pretty sure he’s gonna start throwing punches at the next person to say it, but it’s true. It’s not gonna be easy, but with our help, he’ll get there. Even if we have to tie him to his bed to stop him flying off like this again.”

It was an attempt to be more light-hearted, but Omega was looking at her brother sadly.

“What if he does keep having those seizures?” her voice was almost silent.

“It is a manageable condition, Omega, although life-altering. In future I should be able to detect when they are about to occur and ensure he is in a safe location,” AZI hovered closer to her.

“So you’ve gotta tail him for the rest of his life?” Phee smiled, “He’ll be thrilled with that outcome, I’m sure.”

“Could we do something to his datapad? A monitoring system to alert him?” Omega said hopefully.

“Good thinking,” Phee smiled, “We’ll figure something out, he’ll have enough bedrest now to think of something.”

“He won’t be able to go with us on missions though, will he?” Omega sighed.

“Don’t worry about that just yet,” Phee patted her shoulder, “There’s a long road before he’ll be able to join you all again, although Hunter seems set on settling on Pabu. Maybe by the time he can go on missions, he won’t need to anymore. Ya never know.”

“Echo says it’s only getting worse, though,” Omega mumbled, “That we should just hide, especially me. They want me to have a “normal” life, whatever that means. He’s going back to Rex soon, they’re saving as many clones as they can from the Empire, and that place we got Crosshair out of.”

She paused, “He won’t have left while we’ve been gone, right?”

“He and Hunter are probably sat around going out of their minds with worry about where the three of you have disappeared to,” Phee smiled, “If he left now he’d just be distracted. And unlike me, I think he’d have the manners to say goodbye first.”

“I wish he didn’t have to go,” Omega sniffed, “But he’s known Rex longer than he’s known any of us.”

“We go where we’re called,” Phee put an arm around her, “He’ll be alright. Clearly he’s a survivor, just like his brother.”

Chapter Text

He wasn’t on the Marauder. His head throbbed. His muscles ached. He was too exhausted to move.

AZI hovered over him, “Mistress Phee, he is awake!”

“Tech?” Phee was close by, and he focused enough to see her sat on a smaller bunk. She got to her feet in an instant, placing something down before rushing to kneel beside him.

“Where-”

“Shh, shh,” she spoke softly, stroking his hair, “It’s alright, you’re on my ship. Crosshair and Omega are on the Marauder, bet they’re having a party without us.”

She smirked, slipping her hand into his, “Gave me a scare there, Brown Eyes. For a moment I thought you’d gone and dramatically died at my feet.”

“Not...quite,” Tech’s lips twitched in a small smile.

“I’m sorry,” Phee’s face fell, “I shouldn’t have left, not without talking to you at least.”

Tech didn’t answer, eyes distant and clouded with pain.

“I’ll check on the ETA,” Phee gave his hand a squeeze, “Give him some of the good stuff, AZI.”

“Yes, Mistress Phee,” AZI hovered over Tech, “I am sorry to have had to sedate you, Master Tech. I hope you understand, you should not have overexerted yourself in your condition. I had to ensure you did not further worsen your condition.”

Tech grunted in response, closing his eyes as the pain eased away but didn’t disappear entirely. He slowly turned his head towards the pilot seat, where Phee was studying the flight map. AZI landed on one of the seats and powered down.

“Not long now,” Phee spun the chair around playfully, “Then it’s back to the medbay for you. Or perhaps if you ask AZI nicely, he’ll allow you to rest in the new place Wrecker’s been building for you all.”

“New...place?”

“I guess maybe he’d wanted it to be a surprise, can’t think why else he wouldn’t have told ya,” Phee said sheepishly, “With Shep’s help and some of the others, the four...no, there’s six of you now, ain’t there? Five if Echo takes off again soon. However many of you there are, you’ve got a place to stay that ain’t that tiny ship of yours. They were just finishing up when I left, so they must be almost done. A real home, I guess, for whenever you’re on Pabu. In your case, you’ll be on Pabu a while.”

Tech paused. A real home? He supposed he’d never given it much thought. Growing up, the barracks he shared with his squadmates was home, a safe haven away from the stares and taunts of the regs. When they got their own ship, that was home, even if it took until Omega pointed it out for him to realise. The Marauder was small, though, for five – now six – of them all to live on. A new home, four walls that were firmly on the ground and truly theirs. A big change but a positive one, one that would take some getting used to all the same.

“With...you?”

“If you insist,” Phee grinned, “Lesson learned, Brown Eyes. If you’re gonna chase me across the stars I guess I’d better stay put, at least until you’re better.”

She shook her head in amusement, “You’re insane, you know that? I can just imagine the utter terror on Hunter’s face when he realised three of you had escaped on the Marauder. The thoughts running through his head. He’ll be as grey as Chuckles at this rate.”

“Well...” Tech focused hard on his words, “I came to the...to the realisation that I had developed...feelings-feelings for you. Of the romantic variety – an unfamiliar sensation for me and so diff-difficult to identify.”

“Go on,” she looked at him with a smirk.

“You...” his voice quietened, “You had driven yourself away and...and I had...I concluded I needed to confirm your feelings for me...for me were...were recip-recip...”

“Take your time,” Phee leaned toward him, smirk softening.

Tech closed his eyes, sighing sharply in frustration, “Reciprocated. Your feelings for me...are reciprocated.”

“Oh, Brown Eyes,” Phee’s smile grew, reaching for his hand, “You’re making me blush.”

“I merely...merely did what was necessary,” Tech began to smile himself, “Although not-not without difficult...difficulty.”

“Right,” Phee stroked his hand with her thumb, “Omega told me about that little...incident, shall we say? Lucky you had the sense to bring AZI along for the adventure, right?”

“That...that was Crosshair’s doing,” Tech looked away, “If...if he had not stopped me. I-I would...would have left on my own.”

“Well, thank the stars someone had some sense,” Phee chuckled, “I was always going to come back, Brown Eyes. You should try being more patient.”

“I...how could I when...when it seemed you...you thought yourself a n-nuisance.”

Phee gave his hand a squeeze, “You really are a sweetheart beneath that serious exterior, y’know.”

“No one...no one has described me in such a manner before,” he frowned.

“Because people don’t pay enough attention,” Phee smiled, “Anyway, what was all that stuff about not wanting kids?”

“What...what?” Tech started to frown.

“When you were lying in my arms like we were in some lame holomovie, just as AZI was about to knock you out, you told me you didn’t want to have kids,” Phee chuckled, “Quite the surprise, considering we aren’t even a couple.”

Tech’s eyes flickered from Phee to elsewhere, his mind clearly trying to process. He visibly drooped, as if disappointed, “What I said...what I said. Is that...would that...”

“No,” she chuckled, but her face quickly fell. Phee let out a slow sigh, “The galaxy is no place for kids. Anyone willingly bringing more children into it is selfish, in my opinion.”

She closed her fist around a pendant around her neck, “I won’t bring another into this mess.”

“Another?” Tech frowned, studying her face, “You have children?”

“Had,” Phee smiled, but her voice was flat, lifeless.

“I...I sense I have overstepped my bounds,” Tech looked away, “I’m sorry, I-”

“No, no. I would have told you eventually,” Phee kept hold of his hand, almost clinging to it as if he would disappear, “A daughter.”

She started to smile, her eyes distant, “My little treasure. Long gone now.”

Tech forced himself to stay silent, afraid of causing further upset. All he could do was keep hold of her hand.

“You have the same spark in your eyes, like she did,” she said, and he looked up to find her gazing at him wistfully, “Curious, hungry to discover. She was always wandering off, finding treasures to show me.”

Phee laughed, a breathy laugh weighed down with sorrow, “She was always fearless like her Mama. But one day she wandered too far, I looked away for a second too long. And I lost her. I failed her.”

Phee got to her feet, pulling her hand free and wrapping her arms around herself. The ache in her heart, the one that had been packed into the back of her mind for too long, returned in an instant. It took everything she had for her legs not to give way beneath her.

Tech watched her go, bewildered at her sudden change. Slowly he pushed himself to his feet, grabbing onto each seat to support himself as he followed her.

“Wait,” he said quietly, wincing as he had to stop and lean on a control panel, breathing heavily.

“Hey,” Phee stopped in her tracks, rushing forward to help him into a seat, “You’re still meant to be resting.”

“Then don’t...don’t make me follow you,” Tech choked out a laugh, “I...you are in distress and...I wanted to console you.”

He frowned, “Is that...is that not what partners do?”

“Partners?” Phee widened her tear-filled eyes a moment.

“Is...are we not?” Tech looked away, “Was I...was I mistaken?”

“Not if that’s what you want,” she looked at him seriously, “Tech? Is that what you want?”

“Well,” Tech paused, “I don’t...I have no experience in such a relationship.”

Their eyes met, and he pushed himself up to stand again. Phee held onto both of his hands to steady him.

“But...” he looked at their hands, “I am willing to attempt it.”

“So am I,” Phee leaned and touched her forehead to his, smiling, “Brown Eyes.”

“I...I have never felt this way for...for anyone before,” Tech spoke cautiously, keeping hold of her hands.

“Probably because you have barely met anyone you don’t share genetics with,” Phee gave him a playful nudge.

“I...You are likely correct,” Tech frowned, “I...I cannot explain it, quantify it. It is still rather a...rather a mystery to me, although that is perhaps my mind working...at it’s currently...currently impeded rate.”

“I don’t think anyone can truly make sense of falling in love,” Phee stroked his hand with her thumb, “You’re not alone there.”

“Master Tech!” AZI’s voice startled the pair of them, “It is important you rest in your condition.”

“He knows,” Phee chuckled, “I heard he rarely follows orders.”

“Well, it is for his own good,” AZI hovered closer, “You must get back to the bunk.”

“You heard him,” Phee noticed he was heavier as he leaned on her more heavily, “To bed with you.”

Tech huffed out a sigh and reluctantly, slowly made his way back to the bunk with Phee’s assistance. She sat beside him as he laid back down and visibly relaxed.

“I...I wanted to manage expectations,” he mumbled, “I am aware there are certain, shall we say, expectations for a romantic...romantic relationship. The assump-assumption that a couple will marry and produce...offspring,” Tech shook his head, “I have no intention...intention of either.”

There was silence, a silence Tech couldn’t bear.

“It would...it would be selfish for me to father a child,” Tech stumbled over his words, that felt so foreign to him, “For a multitude of reasons. As...as you said, I do not understand why anyone...anyone would willingly bring a child into this galaxy. It is...unthinkable to me. I...I see endless accounts of poverty and suffering on the HoloNet. I could not...could not force another living being to exist in such a place.”

“I agree-”

“Furthermore...furthermore is the matter of my ageing. C-clones were not made to last, merely-merely an expendable resource with constant...constant replacement. My life...my life is limited, time can only tell how many days I have...have left to live, be it death by combat or old age. A...a child should not live knowing...knowing a parent could die while they are still young,” he shook his head, “And...and beside all of this...I simply do not believe myself...myself capable of raising a family. It...it is not where my skillset thrives. And if...if there is a chance my...my altered...altered processing-”

“There is nothing wrong with you, Tech,” Phee said softly, carefully pulling him into a close embrace without thinking. Tech didn’t protest, though, and instead leaned into it, “Nothing wrong at all.”

“But-”

“But nothing, Brown Eyes,” Phee ran her fingers through his hair, “Your reasons for not wanting kids are valid enough without bringing yourself into it.”

They remained as they were for a moment, Tech leaning heavily into the embrace, enjoying the feeling of her stroking his hair.

“Phee?” he finally spoke, looking up at her, “I...I do not know how long I have left.”

“Don’t talk like you’re about to drop dead any minute,” Phee laughed.

“But it’s true,” Tech pressed, “My lifespan is undet-undeterminable, particularly after...after Eriadu.”

He took a deep breath, “I do not know how long I have left, however...however, I think...I think I should like to spend what is left of it with you. And my squad.”

“Well, Brown Eyes,” Phee gave him a squeeze, “I think I should like to spend however long I have left with you too.”

“Good,” Tech sat up straighter, “So it is settled.”

Phee laughed, pressing her forehead to his, “It’s settled.”

Tech looked at her, her dark brown eyes soft as she gazed at his. The close contact was overwhelming, he couldn’t help but blink rapidly and look away, but he found himself enjoying it at the same time. After what felt like a short eternity, Phee pulled away, breaking the embrace.

“You don’t have to worry, though,” her voice quietened, “No kid should be put through the crap heap this galaxy is. My girl was what I’d call a happy accident, but I blew that chance. Unless you’re born into, I don’t know, royalty, you don’t stand a chance.”

“Have you seen what the Empire can do?” Tech frowned, “Not...not even royalty is safe, if they do not comply.”

“That’s true,” Phee looked down, “And it’s not even just the Empire. There’s plenty of evil facets lurking around everywhere, I’m not sure how Pabu has lasted this long, in truth. It’s everyone for themselves.”

She huffed out a sigh as a tear trickled down her cheeks. All these memories, these feelings had been locked away for too long. She had no control over them now they were free, “I’ve seen how ugly this galaxy can be. I won’t make that mistake again.”

Tech looked over at the small bunk nearby, a fixture that clearly had not been a part of the ships original design, nor installed by someone skilled in doing so.

“How...how old was she?”

“I had my girl for four years. The best four years,” Phee smiled sadly, “She’s at peace now, that’s what I tell myself. Running around in the stars, helping them sparkle.”

Tech caught himself before he could interject with an explanation on the science of the night sky. He couldn’t bear to see Phee in this state. However unrealistic, this idea provided Phee with comfort. That was more important than fact.

“She always hated seeing me cry,” Her voice cracked, sending panic through Tech as he watched, “She would burst out crying herself, throw herself at me, stroke my hair. She would promise me everything would be alright.”

She let out a shaking sigh, “When I lost her, I thought nothing would ever be alright again. But things get better with time. I think I believe her now.”

Tech found himself leaning closer, looking into her dark, sparkling eyes. With a shaking hand, he wiped away the tear rolling down her cheek with his thumb, and in a moment of impulse – and some curiosity – he softly pressed his lips to hers. Phee, entirely taken by surprise, did not pull away, instead leaning into it, her hand on his cheek.

“Master Tech!” AZI activated in an instant, “Your heartrate has increased significant- oh.”

The pair jumped apart, mortified.

“My apologies,” AZI hovered slightly, “Although you must not overexcite yourself, Master Tech. I have ordered you to rest.”

“My fault for leading him astray,” Phee grinned, “Get that beauty sleep, Brown Eyes. We’ll be home before you wake.”

“Phee,” he said quietly as she helped him to lay down again, “Can I ask-”

“You were fine, Tech. For a beginner. I felt kinda like a teenager all over again,” she chuckled, “I’d be careful with your goggles, though, they-”

“Not about that,” Tech spoke quickly, wide eyed. Phee couldn’t help but laugh.

“I assumed you’d want a full report.”

“What was her name?” Tech asked cautiously, “Your daughter?”

Phee’s grin faded into a wistful smile.

“Zizi,” she said softly, “Her name was Zizi. The most precious treasure I ever had.”

Chapter Text

“Well, haven’t you had quite the adventure?”

Tech opened his eyes groggily to find Hunter and Echo stood beside the bunk. Hunter’s arms were folded, but he was smirking. Echo didn’t look so pleased.

“I...” Tech began, glancing at Phee knelt beside him, Chatty perched on her knee. Quietly, she helped him to sit up.

“What were you thinking?!” Echo said abruptly, “You’re in no fit state to-”

“To...jump into action...like you did?” Tech gave Echo a questioning look, “I-I distinctly remember Rex...”

“That was different,” Echo frowned, “My injuries from Skako Minor were-”

“I’m...I’m alive, aren’t I?” Tech smirked, and even Hunter couldn’t hold back a laugh.

“You could have at least asked us to get you there,” the former Sergeant smiled, “Right, Echo?”

Echo let out a long sigh, “At least you didn’t cause yourself permanent further damage.”

“That’s the spirit,” Phee chuckled.

“Alive...but of no use,” Tech shook his head, his smile fading, “I will never...never truly function as I used to.”

“Don’t write yourself off so fast,” Echo said, “You need to heal. Properly heal.”

“I don’t think he’ll need to be going on any adventures anytime soon,” Phee slipped her hand into Tech’s and gave it a squeeze, “Right, Brown Eyes?”

Tech felt his face burning red as Hunter and Echo exchanged a glance, “Yes...yes, that’s right.”

“Ha!” Wrecker’s voice boomed as he boarded Phee’s ship, Omega on his shoulders, “You owe me five credits, sarge!”

“As promised,” Hunter rolled his eyes and dropped the credits into his brother’s hand.

“I...I think you will find that the length...length of the journey and the fact...fact conversations were not had until a few...few hours prior to arrival on Pabu, means that Hunter, only by a fraction, won the bet,” Tech smirked, “You bet that...that I would enter a relationship by the end of the week.”

Omega laughed as Wrecker grumbled, about to return the credits.

“Keep it,” Hunter laughed.

“Knew ya had it in ya though, Tech!” Wrecker grinned, slinging his arms around Hunter and Echo, “Guess we need to get ourselves some suits!”

“He didn’t propose, di’kut,” Crosshair snickered. Tech hadn’t noticed him leaned against the wall nearby, arms folded, toothpick sticking out the side of his mouth.

“Slow down there, big guy,” Phee laughed, “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.”

“N’aww, but I wanna be an Uncle! We never get to see Shaeeah and Jek!” Wrecker whined, “Well, just means one of the others better find a girl.”

“Don’t look at me,” Echo grunted a laugh, although Tech was sure there was a hint of sadness in his eyes.

“I wouldn’t get my hopes up,” Crosshair folded his arms.

“There...there is nothing stopping you from having a child, Wrecker,” Tech said, “And besides, on the genetic...genetic level, any child of ours is biologically yours too.”

Wrecker frowned, but chose not to press it, “Won’t ya want kids eventually? Ain’t that what happens?”

“Not...necessarily,” Tech glanced at Phee a moment, “Reproducing is not essential to leading a ful-fufilling life.”

“We all have our reasons,” Phee said quietly.

“You had a kid already, didn’t you?” Omega piped up, “The toys on that little shelf.”

“Omega,” Echo frowned, “You shouldn’t-”

“No, no, it’s alright,” Phee blinked away tears stinging her eyes, clinging to Tech’s hand as she fixated on the tiny bunk, “It was a long time ago, she’d be older than you if she were still here.”

“The grave,” Echo said cautiously, “By the Archium, I didn’t mean to intrude-”

“Don’t,” Phee smiled weakly, “I’ve spent long enough pretending my own kid never existed. She deserved better than to be hidden away, forgotten.”

She took a deep breath, “Her name was Zizi, she was the best kid I ever could have wished for. But I lost her, my own fault. She’s the reason I do what I do. I lost my own treasure, but I can find others’, bring them home.”

There was silence on board the ship.

“Whatever happened,” Hunter finally spoke, “I’m sure it wasn’t your doing, not really. I’m sorry for your loss.”

“It was a long time ago,” Phee gave him a grateful smile, “Although I only wish she were here to know you. Even you over there, Chuckles. Back then it was just us, mostly. She coulda done with some others besides me.”

Omega hopped down from Wrecker’s shoulders, “You’ll always be one of us, Phee. Especially now...”

“Am I the first non-clone member of Clone Force 99?” Phee raised an eyebrow, pulling Omega into a hug as she giggled, “What an honour.”

“I advise Master Tech be taken to the medical bay, where I can observe him for twenty-four hours and determine whether I can allow him to be moved to your new lodgings,” AZI hovered closer to Tech, who let out a sigh. The droid really picked his moments.

“Can’t he come and see it first?” Omega asked hopefully, “You’ll love it, Tech! There’s so much space, and we-”

“I am afraid Master Tech needs to rest after disobeying my orders to his own detriment,” AZI spoke firmly. Omega’s face fell.

“Hey, only means we can make his room perfect for when he’s ready to move in!” Wrecker grinned, “Didn’t wanna decorate it without your input, Tech.”

“I will prepare the stretcher,” AZI hovered away.

“No need,” Wrecker held out his arms, “I’ve got ‘im.”

“Wrecker, I don’t-” Hunter began, but Tech was carefully scooped up off the bunk, this time far more gentle. Tech didn’t complain, partially because he was too tired and partially because he was finding comfort being back amongst his brothers again. Chatty clambered up until she was sat on Wrecker’s shoulder, chirping happily.

“C’mon then,” Wrecker grinned, leading the way off the ship and back to the medical bay, not the most welcome of sights for his brother, “Don’t you worry, Tech. The moment AZI ain’t lookin’ I’ll sneak ya home, if he don’t let ya out by tomorrow.”

“I’ll...I’ll hold you to that,” Tech smirked, wincing slightly as he was laid back down on the bunk he hadn’t missed at all.

“I’ll keep you company, although apparently I’m free to leave,” Crosshair smirked, “One last night before we’re free.”

“Will...will you stay?” Tech asked hopefully, trying his best to ignore the medical droid attaching him to a monitor, “On Pabu?”

“Where else can I go?” Crosshair smiled meekly, “Doubt they care enough to come looking for me at that place, they’ve got enough guinea pigs. But not like I’ve got anywhere else I can run to.”

“You...you are wanted here,” Tech leaned back on the pillows, “I want you here.”

“Well, you’re stuck with me,” Crosshair sat on his own bunk, “Wrecker already went to the trouble of ensuring I have a room in this new place, wouldn’t want to be rude and let it go to waste now, would I?”

“You got that right!” Wrecker grinned, grabbing his once estranged brother into a close hug, “Good to have ya back, Cross.”

“Get off me,” Crosshair snickered, although he was the one to linger in the embrace.

Chapter Text

“Rise and shine,” Phee smiled as Tech slowly opened his eyes, “Feeling better?”

“Slightly,” Tech blinked sleepily.

“Think you’re up for a little trip out?” Phee gave his hand a squeeze, “Once Chuckles gets out the ‘Fresher, Wrecker wants you to come have breakfast at the new place.”

“My...my hoverchair is in need of significant repairs,” Tech sighed, “It shorted out...shorted out on Crait, hence why you found me...found me on the ground.”

“I figured,” Phee stroked his hand with her thumb, “We’re working on it.”

“I will not...will not be carried by Wrecker all the way there...yesterday was an exception.”

“I know,” Phee’s voice softened, “Fear not, Brown Eyes, there’s a couple more in the medbay. Not in the best working order, but it’s the best we have for now.”

“I...I should like to repair it myself, make some adjustments, but,” Tech looked at his hands, “My fine motor skills are impaired, and may never return to their previous level.”

“Could you tell me what needs to be done? Or Echo, or Hunter, anyone. Let us be your hands until they’re back in working order,” Phee gave his hand a squeeze, “AZI said he’s figuring out a regime or you to regain the lost muscle, which in turn might get you moving again.”

Tech didn’t meet her eyes.

“Or maybe it won’t,” Phee put a hand on his cheek, offering him a small smile as briefly looked her in the eye, “And that’s alright too. We’ll figure it out, isn’t that what you always told Omega? ‘We always figure out a solution?’”

“There may not be a solution to irreparable spinal damage,” Tech muttered.

“Not directly, but you will find other ways to live, to work with what you have,” Phee said.

“I am of little use to you, to my squad, to-”

“You’re more than what you’re useful for, Tech,” Phee sighed, “I don’t love you for your ability to walk or to fix things. I love you for what’s in here.”

She rested her hand on his chest. Tech’s eyes widened in bewilderment before morphing into a frown of confusion.

“My...pectoral muscles?” he noticed the amusement on her face, “Or my cavea thoracis?”

Phee laughed, “See? That is what I love you for!”

His frown only deepened.

“Your heart,” Phee patted his chest playfully.

“I...believe my heart was undamaged from the fall, if that is what you are referring to,” he slowly moved her hand, “And...and this is a more accurate position for where it is located.”

“Dank farrik,” Phee shook her head with a smile, “Never a dull moment with you, Brown Eyes.”

“I...I do not...”

“I love you for you, Tech. Not your physical body and what it can or can’t do. You, your heart, your soul, whatever you want to call it. I love the man that can talk my ear off about any given subject, that’s both the smartest and the most clueless man I've ever met, that will literally allow himself to plummet potentially to his death to save his family. That is who I love, whether he can run a mile or needs a hoverchair to get around, I don’t care. I will stay by him and and work through it all because...”

She caught her breath, tears sparkling in her eyes as she smiled.

“I love you, Tech. Fallen head over heels,” Phee’s smile grew, leaning to softly kiss him.

“Wow,” a smooth voice startled the pair of them. Crosshair was leaning in the doorway of the fresher, a towel wrapped around his waist, “I hope you recorded that, vod.”

Tech blushed, his cheeks burning red as he looked away.

“Are you done preening yet, Chuckles?” Phee smiled, “Breakfast’s waiting.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Crosshair rolled his eyes with a wicked grin, “She’s a keeper, Tech.”

“Glad to have your approval,” Phee called after him, looking back ato Tech, “Perhaps in this new place you can get some privacy.”

“What...about you?” Tech asked, “Are you...are you staying there too?”

“I don’t know,” Phee smiled, “Usually I crash at Shep’s, or just on my ship. Zizi was happy in her little bunk on the ship, although I guess she didn’t know any different.”

She gave his hand a squeeze, “I’m sure I can come over for sleepovers.”

“Who...who will assist me when...”

“You know your brothers are more than capable of helping you out,” Phee smiled, “Your squad comes first, give it a chance.”

--

Tech, Crosshair and Phee headed down the winding path towards the harbour, Chatty flitting between sitting on Tech’s lap to scurrying alongside them. For a moment she hesitated, looking up at the other moon-yos in the trees before hurrying to catch up.

“Bit of a walk, ain’t it?” Phee said with a frown, “Better not need the Marauder in a hurry.”

Wrecker met them at the harbour with an excited grin.

“Ready?!” he was bouncing on his toes, fists clenched, “I think you’re gonna like it!”

He led them to a jetty, where a large, freshly painted boat was waiting.

“All aboard the good ship Lula!” Wrecker boomed a laugh, almost leaping into the black and red boat with Lula’s face painted on the bow.

“Is this it?” Crosshair raised an eyebrow.

“Course not!” Wrecker grinned, “But we need it to get there. Look, even made it easier to for Tech’s chair to get onboard!”

They sailed out from the harbour, past the fishing boats bringing in the last nets of the morning. They were headed for one of the smaller islands surrounding the mainland.

“Is this the old ranch I’ve heard Shep mention before?” Phee asked.

“You got it!” Wrecker slowed the boat as they approached the small dock, the crossing having only taken around ten minutes. Omega was sat on the dock with a hand painted sign.

Welcome Home, Tech and Crosshair!

“There’s room for all of us here!” Wrecker tied the boat to the dock and put up the ramp to help Tech disembark.

“All...of us?” Tech glanced as Phee, who stepped off the boat behind him.

“Sure!” Wrecker grinned, “Don't ya want your girlfriend here with ya?”

“Well...” Tech looked at Phee wth a shy smile, “If...if you would.”

“I suppose I can move my things in,” she smirked, “I didn’t want to assume.”

“Don’t be stupid!” he punched her shoulder playfully, “You’re one of us!”

“Then I accept,” Phee patted Tech’s shoulder, “Anywhere to park my ship?”

“Got it all covered!” Wrecker grinned, “This ranch was pretty well prepared, got a storage barn that could easily fit two ships.”

“Come see, Tech!” Omega bounded up to him, scratching Chatty’s ears affectionately.

“Climb...climb on the back,” Tech tipped his head towards the back of the chair, and Omega clambered on eagerly.

“This is all ours now, Tech,” Omega said as they headed up a small hill from the dock, “Shep wanted us to have it, because there’s so many of us! He told Echo that he can bring any clones he and Rex rescue here too, if they don’t want to join the fight. Isn’t that great?”

“Yes,” Tech nodded, “Echo...he is leaving soon.”

“Tonight,” Omega sighed, “Shep and Wrecker are gonna make a big feast to send him off. He...doesn’t know when he’ll be back.”

Or if, Tech couldn’t help but think. He stayed quiet though, instead distracted by the sight unveiled in front of him. Shep, Lyana and other residents of Pabu were there, fertilising land once used for crops to be used again, starting work on other smaller buildings. Echo and Hunter were waiting outside the large farmhouse.

“What d’ya think?” Wrecker grinned, waving to Shep and the others as they passed, “Room enough for all of us, an entire room each! Echo helped reconnect all the power, we checked the water, everything. Gave it a fresh coat of paint, Hunter helped make a bunch of the furniture, we’re all set!”

“And that over there,” Omega pointed at a smaller building, clearly in need of some renovation, “That used to be a stable for orbaks, but we thought it could be a workshop for you, Tech. So your bedroom doesn’t get all cluttered with your projects!”

“It will anyway,” Crosshair smirked.

“Is that what you want, Tech?” Omega hopped off the back of the hoverchair and smiled at him.

“Well...” Tech wanted to speak his mind. That a workshop was a waste of time now he may never have such articulation again. Phee’s offer was kind, but whether he could really be patient enough to instruct another to perform his tasks – likely at a much slower pace, possibly with repeated instructions – was another matter entirely. And yet Omega looked so hopeful, excited. Instead, he nodded, “Yes. Yes...a good idea.”

“C’mon then,” Wrecker grinned as they reached Hunter and Echo, “Ready for breakfast?”

Chapter Text

As Hunter, Omega and Crosshair cleared away the breakfast plates, Phee helped Tech as he stood up from the breakfast table, allowing him to lean on her for support as he took small steps back to his hoverchair.

“Wish I’d known how far this new place was from the mainland,” Phee muttered, more to herself.

“What do you mean?” Tech frowned.

“No, no, it’s fine,” Phee shook her head, before letting out a sigh, “All this talk about Zizi, I was going to take you to see her.”

“Her...grave,” Tech looked unsure.

“Yeah,” Phee smiled, “Her flowers need checking up on.”

“I...I should like to, well...I suppose I am not meeting her, as such,” Tech frowned, “No, I...I didn’t mean-”

“I know,” Phee laughed softly, “But getting here is enough travel for you today. Besides, you need to explore this new place, get yourself settled in.”

Tech bristled, “I...I was cleared to leave the medical bay. I can decide for...decide for myself whether I am capable of undertaking such a trip.”

“You want to go?” Phee’s eyes widened slightly.

“Zizi...Zizi was a significant...is a significant part of your life. I want to know more,” Tech gave her hand a light squeeze, “I can inspect the new accommodation later.”

“You’re the boss,” Phee started to smile and raised her voice, “Maybe Wrecker will give us a ride to the mainland in the good ship Lula?”

“Goin’ already?” Wrecker’s face fell, “Don’t you want to see your room?”

“I will see it when I sleep in it later,” Tech said, matter-of-factly, “There are more pressing matters.”

“We’ll be back,” Phee patted Wrecker’s shoulder, “Don’t you worry.”

--

The waters were calm as they crossed to the mainland, and Wrecker proudly showed off the boat’s horn before heading back to their new home. Phee took Tech’s hand, took a deep breath, and they headed up towards Upper Pabu. It was a quiet walk, neither of them spoke besides to greet other residents.

“Here she is,” Phee’s voice was unusually gentle as they approached the grave; the little patch of flowers nestled amongst some trees to the side of the Archium. She knelt down and laid a hand on the small headstone.

“It was a long time ago,” Phee forced a smile, “Dank farrik, she would be just about sixteen years old now. My little treasure, all grown up.”

Tech stayed silent, stroking her hand with his thumb.

“Wow,” she chuckled, “The man with all the questions, coming up blank.”

“Well, no, I-” Tech looked away, “The loss...the loss of a child is a sensitive topic, one I am unsure how to navigate.”

“If you don’t get all those questions out I’m afraid that big brain of yours might explode,” Phee chuckled, “Go on. It’s about time I talked about her...it’s been far too long. Not even Cid knew about her.”

“Where...where is her father?” Tech asked cautiously.

“Far away, I hope,” she shook her head bitterly, “Never even met her, threw me out the moment he found out, left me with nothing. Well, not nothing.”

Tech bristled at the thought, hating a man he didn’t even know, but chose to remain silent.

“I ate that bad boy stuff right up back then,” Phee smirked, “Guess my type has changed.”

Tech frowned in confusion, but still didn’t speak.

“I’d say I regretted having anything to do with him, but if I did, I’d regret Zizi,” Tech watched as Phee’s eyes filled with tears, “I did for a moment. She had driven away what I thought was the love of my life, and when I finally got back to my family they didn’t want to know. They had enough mouths to feed without me and another on the way. They called me every name under the sun and threw me out. And so I resented her. I resented her for ruining my life.”

She wiped at her eyes, blinking her tears away, “It wasn’t her fault, kid didn’t ask to be born. And as it turned out, she was the best thing to ever happen to me. I guess she’s the only thing I’m grateful to him for. He gave me her. And lucky for me, she looked nothing like him. I guess you could say she was a little clone of me.”

“You...you were alone?” Tech asked.

“I was for a while. Well, right up until she was born. I wasn’t prepared either, no crib, no clothes, nothing. I suppose that would make it real. I guess I was in denial. I was too scared of the thought of being solely responsible for another life to even prepare myself,” Phee smiled sadly, “I was still a kid myself, even if I didn’t feel like it at the time. A stupid little kid playing make-believe, that everything would suddenly be alright when Zizi was born.

“Don’t...don’t say that,” Tech frowned.

“It’s true,” Phee smirked, “I was excited, though. Wouldn’t admit how terrified I was, but I was excited to not be alone in the galaxy.”

“When...when did you find Pabu?”

"I’m getting to it,” Phee gave his hand a squeeze, “Found Pabu by chance, and I hit the jackpot when I did. Shep and his wife Shari – Lyana's mom, they go to investigate this unfamiliar ship landing on Upper Pabu and find a young girl about to pop. Literally, Zizi arrived the next day, I hadn’t quite realised that the pains I had when I landed were actually the start of labour. I was so scared, reality was hitting me right in the face, or I guess you could say in the gut. I couldn’t pretend anymore, this baby was real, a real living thing that needs me. No more flying around the galaxy as I pleased.”

She smiled sadly, “We were well looked after. These people didn’t know me and yet they’d gone out of their way to make me comfortable. Granted, I don’t see them as the type of people to turf out a heavily pregnant girl and refuse her help.

“Lyana really is just like her mother; Shari was always so gentle and kind from the moment we met. She didn’t leave my side for the entire time, I don’t know how I would have done it without her. And to think I could have ended up having Zizi all alone without any help at all.”

Phee laughed to herself, “I must have been a nightmare patient. When I wasn’t screaming bloody murder, I was bawling my eyes out. But Shari stayed right there, she held me, reassured me, encouraged me. She made me feel safe when my whole world was about to change.”

“I know little...little about childbirth,” Tech paused, “However I do understand that it is...it is said to be quite a gruelling process to endure.”

Phee rested her head on his shoulder, “Oh it is. Was convinced I was dying at least once or twice. Dank farrik, all of Pabu must have heard my dramatics. And then there it was, that tiny little cry that changed everything.”

Her face crumpled for a moment.

“She was so tiny,” Phee’s voice cracked, “She was placed in my arms wrapped in a blanket, her perfect little face all scrunched up. And I held her little hand between my finger and thumb and I told her we’ll be alright. We’ll be alright, me and you. Mama and her little treasure. We’re a team. Me and you against the galaxy, my Zizi. I wasn’t so scared anymore.”

Tech felt her hands shaking as she gripped onto his, tears overflowing as she put everything into remaining composed, “Well, that’s a lie. Of course I was terrified. Seventeen, a single mother and barely a credit to my name. But we had a roof over our heads, our feet on the ground. Shep said we could stay as long as we needed, and we did. Zizi spent the first year of her life here, before I was itching for adventure again. Before I sent her to her death.”

“You did not,” Tech said abruptly, “I’m sure you did not.”

“You know, more than once I wanted to give her up,” Phee let out a slow sigh, “I loved her more than anything I’d ever been able to call my own, but I’d see Shep and Shari with her and...well, I knew how much they wanted a kid of their own. And with my situation, I always felt that Zizi deserved better than what I could give her. Every time I tried to go through with it, though, I couldn’t. And if I had, maybe she would still be here.”

All Tech could do was watch in alarm as she crumbled in front of him, unsure how to respond. He wasn’t much use with physical affection and his words of consolation weren’t much better. Phee gave herself a shake and took a deep breath.

“She’s the reason I do what I do,” she finally spoke, “Losing her was only a reminder of how ugly the galaxy can be, what an awful place it is. Only worse now the Empire has taken control. But no matter where she was, my Zizi found the beauty, she found her trinkets and treasures and would run and show me. An old coin, a feather, even just a rock she liked the look of. There was always something, and I kept every single thing. They’re still on my ship now.”

“What...what happened?” Tech asked, “If...only if you...”

“It’s alright,” Phee took a shaking breath, “I’ve told you this much, I owe you the ending.”

She squeezed her eyes shut, preparing herself, “She was always eager to find her treasures, always running off before I could grab her. Usually I could keep up, I could keep her in sight. But one day I couldn’t.”

“We were in a marketplace on some Outer Rim world, it was our favourite thing to do. Always collecting something from every world we visited. There were some street performers playing music and she was over there in a shot. My Zizi loved to dance, had no fear of dancing her little heart out in the middle of a marketplace. I was close by, I was lined up to buy us some candies and I didn’t look away from her once...well, until I handed over the credits. It was just a moment too long...the worst moment of my life.”

“It was the Pykes,” her voice grew bitter, “I don’t know what shady business they had goin’ on, but it turned ugly. Within seconds the place was in chaos, blaster fire, panic, everyone trying to run in different directions. It all ended up in a big crush. I went to grab Zizi, scoop her up and get her to safety, but it was already too late. I couldn’t see her, I fought through the crowd not even knowing if I was heading in the right direction, just screaming out her name. My baby called out for me just once and never again, it was the last time I ever heard her. She must have been so scared, so terrified. I think that hurts the most. Her final moments were filled with fear and terror, she just wanted her Mama. And I wasn’t there to cradle her in my arms and shield her, keep her safe. What kind of a mother can’t even do that?”

Phee let out a sob, dropping to her knees and curling in on herself. Before he could even process, Tech had pushed himself up off his hoverchair and slowly lowered himself into kneeling beside her. He almost lost his balance as she threw her arms around him.

“She was so small,” Phee wept forlornly, “When the crowd cleared, when everything had dissipated, I found her. She was barely a few steps away and yet I couldn’t reach her, and it was too late. It was too late, and no one would help me. I was on my knees with Zizi limp in my arms just screaming, begging for someone to help. No one even looked our way, too afraid of upsetting the Pykes. I lost faith in the galaxy that day. I lost a lot more than that.”

She buried her head in his shoulder, clutching tightly at him as her whole body shook with the memories. Slowly, he wrapped his arms around her, just holding her, gently stroking her back as she wept.

“Not...It wasn’t your fault,” he murmured after a minute, “Young children are notorious for...”

His voice trailed away. Perhaps this wasn’t the best reassurance for the situation, in hindsight. Phee found herself laughing through the tears.

“It’s alright, I know what you meant,” she rested her head on him, stroking his chest lightly, “You have a good heart, Brown Eyes, even if you don’t know what to say. I need you to know that.”

She let out a sigh, “She would have loved you.”

“How...how can you be...how can you be sure of that?”

“I just know,” Phee smiled, “She would be hanging onto your every word as you tell her all about, well, whatever you were telling her about, and she’d be asking you all sorts of questions. She would grab your hand and drag you along to help her find her treasures, ask you to record everything she found. You were the kind of father she deserved.”

“F-father?”

“We’re partners, aren’t we?” Phee chuckled, “And if my Zizi were alive, that would make you her stepfather.”

“I...I suppose you are correct,” Tech looked over at the tiny headstone among the flowers, “I’m...I’m not sure I would be particularly skilled at such a role, though.”

“It’s not something you need to worry about,” Phee mumbled, “There won’t be any little Tech and Phee juniors running around the place. Not in this Empire.”

“I’m...I’m sorry.”

“Don’t worry yourself, Brown Eyes,” she looked up at him with a sad smile, “You got nothin’ to apologise for, you hear? I had my chance and I blew it, there’s no need to bring more innocent kids into this mess.”

Tech stayed quiet but didn’t once let her go. She rested her head on his chest.

“I brought her back here, I wrapped her up in the blanket I’d knitted her and held her in my arms all the way home. Shep and his wife, they did their best to console me. I didn’t appreciate it at the time. All I could see was that while I’d lost my baby, they were about to have their own,” Phee’s voice cracked, “Zizi was barely buried when Lyana was born...they were supposed to be friends, Lyana should have had a big sister in Zizi. They should have grown up together, I should never have taken Zizi away from this place, where she was safe. I failed her.”

“Don’t...don’t say that,” Tech frowned, “You...you cannot predict the future. You could not have anticipated such a random occurrence.”

“I was meant to be there when Lyana was born, I owed it to Shari to be there for her like she was for me. But I couldn’t...I couldn’t do it,” Phee continued, “The first year of her life I did my best to pretend she didn’t exist. In my grief it felt as if her mere existence were mocking me. Poor kid took a shine to me, crawling and later toddling up to me, giving me the biggest smiles, and I’d walk away, ignore her. Eventually I left Pabu altogether with no intention of returning. Left Zizi behind, Shep, Lyana, all of them. I wanted to forget.”

“I tried to find him again, her father. Some part of me stupidly thought that without the kid he didn’t want, maybe he’d take me back,” she sighed, “It had been near on five years by that point. He’d moved onto the next girl, or several next girls. I was old news. I drifted around with no purpose, no real wish to live, eventually I found myself at a parlour on Ord Mantell.”

“Cid,” Tech muttered.

“Yup,” Phee chuckled, “I gotta hand it to her, though, she probably saved me from getting myself killed or drinking myself to death. She eventually stopped topping up my drinks and gave me work instead, low level retrieval missions, that kinda thing. Scoped out a few Jedi relics for the order once or twice. A lot of times I was rescuing old artefacts, lost heirlooms from those willing to pay Cid a decent price to get them back. Didn’t often see the clients, but when I did, it sparked something in me. I was returning lost treasures to their homes and seeing the joy it brought. Guess I found my calling, didn’t I? I couldn’t get my treasure back, but I could try to return others’ to them.”

“When...when did you go back? Here?”

“Shep’s wife died when Lyana was only a couple years old,” Phee sighed, “I got his signal and I dropped everything. I’d never seen him so broken. Cid wasn’t happy about my disappearing act, but this was more important. I found the strength to lock away my grief, to help Shep with Lyana while he grieved. It got easier as time went on, I almost forced myself to forget Zizi. Cid never knew about her, only really those on Pabu that knew her do. It hurt too much to keep her in the forefront of my mind, but thinking back, that was cowardly. A disrespect to her. I should be celebrating her, not hiding her away.”

“I never liked to stay in one place, so once Shep was back on his feet I left Pabu again, but this time with the promise of returning regularly with something new to show Lyana, and for the Archium, of course. I stopped taking jobs from Cid, unless there was something of interest she had for me to find. She’s a good contact to have, if you know how to handle her.”

Tech chose not to comment.

“Hey,” Phee gave him a playful nudge, “At the very least, she’s the reason you got yourself a girlfriend.”

“I...I suppose you are correct,” Tech frowned, “However, I will not be extending my gratitude to her.”

“Neither will I,” Phee kissed his cheek, resting her head on his shoulder.

“Do you...do you really think Zizi would have liked me? As a paternal figure in her life?”

“For starters, anything is better than no father at all,” Phee smirked, “I told her some story that her Daddy was off having adventures, saving people. He couldn’t be further opposite, but I wasn’t exactly gonna tell a little girl that half her genetics came from an overgrown waste of oxygen.”

“I hope...I hope he does not cross our path,” Tech spoke firmly.

“Ya gonna beat him to a pulp in my honour?” Phee flashed him a grin.

“I doubt I can do any such thing in my condition,” Tech raised an eyebrow, “However...however much I would like to.”

“He’d better hope he doesn’t stumble across us then, hadn’t he?” Phee relaxed onto his chest, the steady beat of his heart somewhat soothing. She took a few moments to regulate herself, before reaching into a pouch on her belt and pressing It into Tech’s hand.

“I’ve had this with me all this time. Never had the strength to look at it, though,” Phee watched him study the mechanisms of the old projector, “Will you check it’s still working?”

“I...I wouldn’t want to...”

“Please,” Phee’s voice softened, remaining nestled to his chest for comfort. After some hesitation, Tech flicked the switch, and in that moment, she was transported back sixteen years.

“You look young,” he said quietly.

“Thanks a bunch,” Phee gave him a playful nudge, “What did you expect, I was born looking like this?”

“No, I-” Tech paused at the sight of her laughing, “You are...you are teasing me.”

“Well spotted,” Phee chuckled.

Her hair had been longer back then, in intricate braids that cascaded down her shoulders, the same blue scarf wrapped around her head. It was a still image, a young Phee Genoa smiling down at a little face peeking from a bundle of blankets. Tech found himself smiling at the sight of it, and he pulled Phee into a closer embrace.

Chapter Text

The course was set. He would be back on Coruscant, back in the fight, within a few days. Echo sat in the pilot seat, letting out a sigh. He’d been away too long already and yet the distance had him hesitating. Rex’s work was vital, clones were being forcibly retired or imprisoned for treason at an alarming rate. Every brother saved was important, even if they could realistically only save a fraction of them.

And yet being back with his former squad only reiterated how he had missed them. They hadn’t seen eye to eye all the time – they still didn’t - but they were still some of the closest brothers he had. All too often he had wondered what Fives would think of Clone Force 99. At the very least, he would have irritated Crosshair to no end.

Their new home, their new life warmed his heart. Finally, a place for them to live that wasn’t uncomfortably close quarters on a ship not intended for habitation. Hunter had got what he wanted; Omega could have as close to a normal life as the galaxy would allow. As long as the Empire doesn’t come looking.

Wrecker was diving into various new hobbies, Crosshair was finally getting some peace, even Hunter had seemed to allow himself to relax for the first time ever, perhaps. Tech wouldn’t be going anywhere anytime soon, but Echo was almost certain that wouldn’t last forever. The flora and fauna unique to Pabu would only hold his attention for so long, and together with Phee, he would surely explore the galaxy. For now, though, he was adjusting to his new situation with his siblings and partner by his side.

Echo ran his hand over his head, feeling all the metal implants in turn. If he was going to fight for anything, it was to ensure that Clone Force 99 – and as many brothers as possible – could live out their days in safety.

“Hunter and Shep made these for the journey,” Omega’s voice snapped him out of his thoughts.

“They know I’m the only one on board, right?” he smiled at the size of the crate, filled high with various wrapped items of food.

“Rex could have some, or the other clones you save? They should keep til you get there?” Omega said with a tinge of sadness, “When will you come back again, Echo?”

“I don’t know, kid,” Echo sighed, “I only got away because I needed help, and then we all needed time to recover. Stayed a little longer for Tech, though. Longer than I should have.”

“I don’t think Tech would agree,” Omega raised an eyebrow, “You’ve helped him, Echo. You understand what he’s going through more than any of us.”

“He’ll be alright with his squad. And Phee,” Echo smirked, and Omega started to smile.

“We could come and help you, Echo? Return the favour? Not Tech, of course, I don’t think he’s ready, but,” Omega looked hopeful, “You’re always saying you need numbers, we can-”

“Omega,” Echo laughed softly, “Wrecker has just built you all a home, you really think you’re heading back into the fight?”

“But we could-”

“Hunter looks like he’s slept more in the past few weeks than he has in his entire life,” Echo folded his arms, “Wrecker is practically part of the workforce now. And the last thing Tech and Cross need is conflict.”

“Then I can go with you!”

“Rest, kid. You have a chance that none of us ever got. Be a kid, you don’t need to be a hero,” Echo looked at her fondly, “You’ve helped so many already, and it’s time for you to live, not just survive.”

Omega was quiet for a moment, looking at her feet, “Will you call?”

“When I can, when it’s safe,” Echo said, “The last thing I want is to put you all in danger. Not calling doesn’t mean I’m not thinking of you, wondering what you’re up to, how Tech is getting on. Will you look out for him for me?”

“I think that’s Phee’s job now,” Omega shrugged with a tinge of disappointment.

“He’ll always need his little sister,” Echo smiled, “Besides, when I do call, you need to keep me updated on all the romance.”

“Do you think they’ll marry?” Omega’s face brightened, “Have kids?”

“I don’t think that’s a priority right now,” Echo chuckled, “He might change his mind, but he also might now. That’s not for us to decide. My job, Rex’s job, we’re trying to make the galaxy safer enough for those kinds of outcomes.”

Omega smiled sadly, “I want you to take this with you.”

She grabbed Echo’s hand and pressed something into it, a small, soft-

“I can’t take this, Omega,” Echo shook his head, a lump forming in his throat, “It’s yours.”

“I have Lula. And Hunter and Wrecker and Tech and Crosshair,” Omega looked at the little trooper doll in Echo’s hand, the one that had been with her since Pantora. Her Bad Batch paint job was a little faded, but still there, “With her, you’ll always have a Bad Batcher by your side.”

“I’ll keep her safe, then,” Echo smiled, “C’mere, vod’ika.”

Echo pulled her into a close hug, patting her back affectionately. He felt hot tears leaking into his vest.

“Go on, round up the others,” Echo cleared his throat, “I’d best hit the skies.”

--

Saying goodbye again, for some reason, felt more final. Crosshair couldn’t hide his concern, nor his gratitude for his rescue. Hunter was solemn, held onto Echo’s wrist a moment longer than he usually would.

“Where are the others?” Echo frowned.

“The lovebirds took a trip to the mainland,” Crosshair smirked, “Wrecker’s giving them a lift back.”

“Leaving already?” Wrecker’s voice boomed, charging ahead of Tech and Phee. Echo caught sight of the grief in Phee’s eyes, just as Wrecker grabbed him up into a bear hug.

“Stay alive, ya here?” Wrecker’s voice softened, “Gotta be back for the wedding!”

“There is no wedding, Wrecker,” Tech muttered, “We are content as we are.”

“We are,” Phee’s voice was flat, charged with emotion. She sniffed and wiped at her eyes hurriedly, giving Tech a weak smile as he looked at her in concern.

“I’ll be back when I can,” Echo choked out, squirming free of Wrecker’s uncomfortably tight grip.

“Woah there,” Phee laughed tearfully, and Echo turned to see Tech pushing himself to his feet, “Need a hand there, trooper?”

“I...” Tech paused, letting out a sigh, “Yes.”

“Best be quick, I reckon he’s in a hurry,” Phee said as she held his arms, assisting him into standing before guiding him to take step after step.

“Take your time,” Echo said with a smile. Rex could surely wait a few seconds more.

When Tech reached him, Echo took his arms to support him while Phee took a step back.

“Be...be careful, Echo,” Tech, surprisingly, looked him right in the eyes, even for a second, “I can’t...can’t...I can’t lose anything else.”

“I’ll do my best,” Echo smiled, “Besides, I have to be back for the wedding, don’t I?”

“There isn’t-”

“I know,” Echo laughed, before leaning to press his forehead to Tech’s, “Pace yourself, Tech’ika. You will adjust, I promise, but you can’t rush it.”

“I...I will never truly heal,” Tech shook his head, “However, I must try to adapt.”

“You’re not alone,” Echo pulled away and nodded to Phee, “Take good care of him.”

“He doesn’t need me to do that,” Phee patted Tech’s shoulder, “Safe travels, Echo.”

She flashed a wicked grin at Tech, “And don’t forget the wedding.”

Chapter Text

“Echo!” Omega came running the moment the ship touched down and the former ARC trooper stepped outside. As always, he braced himself for impact as she leapt into his arms in a hug.

“Always the warmest welcome,” Echo smirked, patting her back, “How is-“

“She’s here!” Omega said excitedly, voice high pitched, “She was born early yesterday, you have to come see!”

“A girl,” Echo smiled, “Guess Wrecker won the bet, then.”

“She’s the cutest little thing I’ve ever seen!” Omega was grinning from ear to ear, “C’mon!”

“I’m sure Phee doesn’t need you dragging me in to see her when she’s trying to get some rest,” Echo chuckled, “Let them-“

“Tech has the baby,” Omega said with a laugh, “He can’t take his eyes off her, everyone says they’ve never seen him so quiet before.”

Echo laughed, “Now this I have to see.”

Sure enough, Tech was sat out on the deck of the house the former members of Clone Force 99 had considered home for some time now, cradling a bundle of hand-knitted blankets in his arms. Chatty, the moon-yo, was perched on his shoulder, watching the bundle with almost as much interest as Tech.

He was sat in his hoverchair - it had taken a while for him to accept he would never be the physically agile man he once was, but now he utilised his chair for the majority of the time. It had bothered him as the birth of his child grew closer, all depictions of parents in his extensive research did not rely on such equipment. It appeared all those fears had simply melted away the moment he held his daughter for the first time.

“Echo,” he looked up at his brother with a smile, before looking back to the bundle, “Yet another Uncle to meet you, ner sen’ika.”

“Little bird,” Echo felt tears springing in his eyes, “Congratulations, vod. How is Phee?”

“Resting, but well. I’m told Safalira’s birth was faster than average, but Phee of course will still need to recover. After all, she-“

“Im sure she’d rather you spare the details,” Echo smiled, “Safalira?”

“Phee chose it, and I think it rather suits her. Safalira Breeze Genoa. I chose Breeze, in a similar manner to how a clone would name himself. I am Tech, because that is what I found comfort in. When I first woke from my seizure, very disoriented and barely conscious, all I remember is the breeze through the window as Phee laid her on my chest. It is part of my first memory as a father. Phee wanted our child to have a name from each of us. A name that represents her parents' heritage,” Tech watched over his daughter with soft, doting eyes, “She calls her Safi.”

“Can I see her?” Echo cautiously reached for the blankets obscuring his view of the child. Tech gave him a nod, assisting in revealing the newborn’s face. She was fast asleep, dark eyelashes fluttering, and clearly enjoying the safety of her father’s arms.

“She’s beautiful,” Echo’s voice cracked. Amidst all the violence and combat he’d been immersed in, little Safalira Genoa was a welcome sight. It was all put into perspective now, the wider picture of his and Rex’s work. They were fighting back, liberating other clones, but in doing so hopefully contributed to a better galaxy. A better galaxy for her to grow up in. Safi would be safe on Pabu, but she had parents with adventure in their souls. Echo could only hope that someday, they could show their little girl the galaxy with no fear at all.

“It’s quite normal to find yourself overwhelmed with emotion,” Tech said matter of factly, stroking little Safi’s head, “The others have all cried, even myself at the moment of her birth’.”

“Do you want to hold her, Echo?” Omega said eagerly, “Shes so tiny, she’s not heavy at all!”

“Hey, let Tech decide who holds his kid,” Echo raised an eyebrow, although he grew apprehensive.

“Of course, I’m sorry. You can hold her if you would like to,” Tech nodded, looking down at his daughter with a smile, “You don’t seem to mind being passed around, as long as you’re in someone’s arms.”

“I…I shouldn’t,” Echo held up his scomp link, “Best not risk it.”

“I trust you, Echo,” Tech said quietly, “You-“

“Here he is!” Wrecker bounded outside followed by Crosshair, “Have ya met her yet? A beauty, isn’t she?”

“Dank Farrik, keep it down,” Crosshair hissed, nodding at Echo in greeting, “Somehow our niece isn’t affected by Wrecker’s lack of volume control.”

“Can I hold her again, Tech? Please?” Wrecker crouched down to look at the newborn, “N’aww, good mornin’ Safi.”

“I don't think she will have any complaints,” Tech said, allowing his biggest brother to scoop up his little niece.

“C’mere, beautiful,” Wrecker’s voice wavered, “I’m gonna cry again.”

“That’ll be the fifth time since she was born,” Crosshair snickered as Wrecker sniffled, patting Tech’s shoulder, “You alright?”

“Yes,” Tech sounded agitated, “I am rested.”

Echo frowned as his brother’s happiness was clouded with something else; guilt, or perhaps disappointment.

“Tech,” Crosshair let out a sigh, while Wrecker and Omega were distracted by their little niece, “It wasn’t your fault.”

“I know that,” Tech muttered, not meeting his eye.

“What’s wrong?” Echo lowered his voice, “Tech?”

“I wasn’t there for Phee when she needed me the most,” Tech shook his head, “It couldn’t be helped, but all the same, I was not present for the birth of my child. I was not there to support Phee at such a vulnerable moment. I was not there.”

“You had a seizure, Tech!” Crosshair exclaimed, “And not a mild one. We thought we’d lost you for a while. Believe me, Phee cares more that you’re still breathing than whether you were there to hold her hand. And Safi couldn’t care less.”

Tech looked away, blinking rapidly, “I...I am already a less than satisfactory parent due to my...predicament. The least I could-”

“Stop,” Echo said abruptly, “You’re writing yourself off again, when you’ve barely given yourself a chance.”

Tech nodded silently, “I’m sorry. I...it is quite the adjustment.”

“That’s putting it mildly,” Crosshair raised an eyebrow, “You have an entire life dependent on you now.”

“Uh, Tech?” Wrecker returned with a fussy baby, “Think she wants you.”

“Typical,” Crosshair smirked, and Tech pushed himself to his feet to take his daughter back.

“I think you’re wanting someone else,” his voice softened, and he laid her on his chest to carry her back inside to her mother, who had just received breakfast from Hunter.

“Here she is, my little star,” Phee started to smile, “Where has Papa been taking you?”

“Just to watch the sunrise,” Tech sat on the bed.

“And the stars,” Hunter folded his arms with a laugh, “Hasn’t slept even for a second.”

“If you hadn’t noticed, we’ve got a plentiful supply of babysitters, Brown Eyes,” Phee laughed, taking her newborn into her arms, “No excuse for not getting some sleep.”

“I suppose I lost track of time,” Tech said quietly, almost embarrassed, “I just...In truth, I am still in disbelief that she is mine. That I am a father, that you and I created a whole new life-”

“Easy now,” Phee chuckled softly, pressing a loving kiss on little Safi’s head, “Well, better start believing it. She’s all yours, and I think she’s got your eyes.”

“If you need us to take her while you rest, you only have to ask,” Hunter patted Tech’s shoulder, “At the very least, Wrecker and Omega won’t say no.”

“The little lady needs her breakfast, but after that I’d say she could use some time with her extended family,” Phee held her daughter’s tiny hand, “I don’t remember being this tired after Zizi, but then again, I was over a decade younger when I had her.”

“You will be back to optimum health quickly, I’m sure,” Tech moved closer to her, taking Phee and their daughter into his arms, kissing her head and putting his hand under Phee’s supporting Safi’s weight, “I will ensure of that.”

“I’ll leave you to it,” Hunter said with a smile, blinking away tears as he turned away. He glanced back at the Genoas, huddled together as one, Tech and Phee watching over their daughter with identical love in their eyes, as Phee started to sing an old lullaby.