Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The sun of Pabu welcomed the Bad Batch once more, kissing their skin in warmth. Hunter surveyed his surroundings, catching glimpse of the freed clones enjoying their well-earned freedom. One of their brothers ordered an ice cream cone, only to be pleasantly surprised by the larger-than-expected dessert. Hunter found himself smiling at the clone’s reaction.

The water of the sea rose and fell against the sand, meeting his enhanced senses with a serene bliss. For once, Pabu is the only place that Hunter’s felt at peace. There was no artificial light that beat against his eyes, slowly forming a migraine. There was no low hum of a facility like Kamino. Instead, Pabu was quiet. Birds flew overhead, the sound of laughter and water brushed his ears. This was a good place to retire; to lay down being a soldier.

Mox, Stak, and Deke laughed with the rescued children of Tantiss; Mox easily accepted them under his wing. He was a good leader for their small group of insurgents.

During their time on Pabu before the breach of Tantiss, on days when Mox wasn’t playing on the shore with his brothers and Lyana, he sat with Hunter. Hunter would give the younger clone advice, sharing his stories from the battlefield, explaining what it was like to be a sergeant. Mox listened intently, sometimes even taking notes.

Hunter knew that Mox was a good kid. In a way, he saw glimpses of himself in the young clone. Yet that was no surprise, sharing the same blood, heart, and anatomy.

He exhaled a breath he didn’t know he had been holding. They were finally safe. They had fought so hard, and it had really all been worth it.

He surveyed around, until his gaze fell on Omega. His little girl. He had lost her three times, and now, she was finally safe. It had all been worth it.

Now, he had the opportunity to see her grow up. To be able to raise her. Truthfully, it was all he had ever wanted. His heart ached in his chest with the mere acknowledgment that they were free. His little girl was free and safe. It was all they had ever fought for.

He inhaled serenity, and made his way to Omega, who was sitting in the grass beside Batcher. Sitting next to her, he didn’t utter a word; just enjoying merely being in her presence. He noticed her gaze being glued on the rescued children from Tantiss. They clung like a magnet to Mox, Stak, Deke, and Lyana. Usually, Omega would be with the four of them; yet her mind seemed to be preoccupied.

“With Hemlock gone, and his data destroyed, they’re finally safe.” Omega acknowledged. Peace that matched Hunter’s filled her tone.

“Mhm,” Hunter began, releasing a sigh of tranquility, “and so are you.” His gaze traveled to the young clone whom he loved so much.

“Will it take long to find their families?” Omega inquired, still holding onto the lingering questions concerning the other children. Omega still putting others above herself never failed to amaze Hunter.

“Rex and I are working on it; but we’ll look after them until then.” Hunter responded. Omega nodded, acknowledging his response.

The two sat in a comfortable silence. It was always comfortable for the both of them.

The low hum of an engine filled the air, as Echo and Emerie were preparing to lift off, adding their flames to the rebellion. Emerie understood that she had information to offer, aiding Echo and the other clones in their mission.

Before Echo boarded the ship, he took one glance at Hunter and Omega. They had already said their goodbyes earlier; and Echo knew that he would be back. So Hunter offered a nod, and Omega a smile. Echo nodded once in response, he insisted that it was not his time to retire yet. Once Echo had boarded the ship, Hunter and Omega watched quietly as he took off.

“What about the rest of the clones? Will they stay here on Pabu?” Omega broke the silence.

“Well, it’s up to them. They’re free to follow their own paths.” Hunter responded, meeting her gaze. “We’ve all fought enough battles for one lifetime. Now, we get to choose who we want to be.” The words resonated with Hunter, as he could barely believe he was finally speaking them.

“Like what?” Omega answered. Yet a part of her already knew her answer.

A father . Hunter’s mind supplied.

“Whatever we want, kid.” Hunter responded. Omega gently laid her head upon Hunter’s shoulder, her eyes closing in tranquility, basking in the warmth that was finally brought to them. Hunter exhaled his breath, feeling her weight on his shoulder. “Whatever we want.”

Hunter’s gaze traveled to his brothers, Wrecker and Crosshair, as they made their way to the duo. The two of them sat down, basking in the warmth with their family.

Hunter’s eyes glanced down once more at Omega, settling on her little hand. He noticed the dot on her hand, a scar that developed during the months she was on Tantiss.

He remembered the first time he had seen it, after they had gotten Omega back. To some, it appeared as a mere freckle; yet Hunter knew he didn’t recognize it. It was just a speck, yet it enraged Hunter how Hemlock harmed her. Over time, the experimental spot became a scar. Now, it looked scabbed over again.

Grabbing her small hand, Hunter began to massage over the scar.

“Hm?” Omega’s eyes began to open, Hunter catching her attention.

“It looks fresh again.” Hunter scoffed.

“It’s okay.” Omega leaned closer into him. “He’s gone.”

Hunter pursed his lips. It was as if she was trying to comfort him .

“He is gone.” Hunter agreed. “No one will hurt you again.”

“I love you.” Omega spoke softly. Hunter tensed. While they’ve said it before, it wasn’t necessarily a common phrase. They were more prominent to show expressions of love, rather than verbalize it.

“I love you more.” Hunter decided, using his hand to steady her head back onto his shoulder.

Omega only gasped.

“No! I love you !” She spoke louder, as if his IQ were in the negatives.

“I heard you, kid.” Hunter laughed at her, before his gaze settled into adoration. His sweet girl, finally safe snd free on Pabu. They were free to raise her. After all of the fighting and battles, it had finally been worth it.

Chapter Text

As the sunset of Pabu grazed Crosshair’s skin, he leaned back on the chair of their patio. It was something he was never accustomed to, even owning a patio.

When Shep offered them the home, Hunter was hesitant to accept the kind offer; the last thing that the Batch wanted was to cause any issues, or seem desperate. Yet when Shep insisted, Hunter found that he couldn’t reject the offer. This is what was best for his family.

The home came with three bedrooms, a real kitchen, two bathroom, and a patio. For the bedroom situation, Crosshair and Wrecker agreed to room together; mostly because during the war on the Marauder, they often slept near one another.

They both managed to array their walls in emptied firearms, knives, and art from Omega. On Crosshair’s side of the room, Omega created a drawing of his firepuncher, in front of his crosshair symbol.

For Wrecker’s side of the room, Omega gifted him a drawing of Lula holding detonators. Wrecker could barely believe his eyes, letting out a tremendous laugh.

The two of them got the largest master bedroom, which led into a personal shared bathroom for the two of them.

Unfortunately, Omega’s room did not include a mirror; yet when Wrecker learned of this, he ripped their own mirror off of the bathroom wall, carrying it to his little sister’s.

The fact that Wrecker and Crosshair shared a room meant that Hunter, admittedly thankful for their collective decision, got a room to himself. Of course, it meant that he didn’t have to hear Wrecker’s achingly loud snores.

It also meant that he got the room across from Omega; meaning that in the situation where she would need him, he would be there.

As for him, his room wasn’t nearly as messy as Wrecker. His bed sat against the wall, in the middle of his room. Next to his bed was a dresser, with a pile of bandanas and hair products sitting on top of it.

He managed to decorate his walls a little, but not as much as the rest of his family. He had a knife on display, and a Mandalorian proverb gifted by Echo, but most of the decorations on his walls was art from Omega.

That only left Omega. She got the room whose window led directly to a view of the ocean.

Her brothers could remember the moment she stepped into the room.

“This is mine?!” She exclaimed, before her eyes went wide, surveying the space. Hunter, Crosshair, and Wrecker found themselves trying to mask their smiles.

The young girl found that after living in her cell on Tantiss, she couldn’t stand any minimalism decor. That meant that as soon as she was able to get her hands on decorations, she arrayed her walls with many knickknacks. Art that she created featuring her and her brothers, accompanied a homemade poster from Lyana.

On her windowsill, she decorated the space with pretty shells from the shores of Pabu. Their new neighbors gifted Omega a house plant, explaining to her that it was called a Taro Vine plant, and that it would be easy for her to take care of.

The neighbors also managed to explain how an alternative name for the plant is a ‘Hunter’s Robe’, which caused Omega to erupt into laughter. Yet through the glimmer in her eyes, there was a hint of sadness that all of her brothers recognized; the realization that Tech would have loved these neighbors.

All in all, they loved their new home. Even Crosshair, who hadn’t verbally expressed his satisfaction, enjoyed sitting on their patio. Shep was swift in helping them decorate the space with a table and chairs. Perhaps this was a good way to finally settle down.

The quiet serenity of the waves and birds still managed to be a new experience to Crosshair. For so long, he was so accustomed to the bare ambience of Tantiss. Plain noise of an electric facility; no birds, no waves. The thought brought a chill down Crosshair’s spine.

He remembered the days in which Omega would visit him, even if he couldn’t stand her initially. She spoke gently to him, yet would strongly motivate him when he needed it.

The first few times she has visited him, a part of her seemed nervous; as if he would reject her. And he did. Multiple times.

Regardless, she still regularly came to him. Over time, things began to open up. He eventually found himself not flinching when she told him that she trusted him, or that she wouldn’t abandon him there.

But even then, he couldn’t bring himself to repay the kindness with kindness. Yet he listened to her; he listened intently when she told him that her ‘room’ felt like a cell. She told him that she felt trapped, and she began to cry.

“It’s okay.” He muttered then, his gaze meeting hers. He nodded in reassurance, as she did the same, wiping her tears. It was no hug, and it was no comforting in the ways that Hunter, Wrecker, Echo, or Tech had often met her with. But it was something, and it was enough.

Crosshair shifted himself on the patio, digging into his pocket, and finding a toothpick. In a swift motion, he brought the wooden stick to his mouth.

There was one instance after Crosshair and Omega began to open up to one another on Tantiss. Omega had been rambling about her missions with her brothers; Crosshair listened, occasionally chiming in. There was a hint of hesitation in her voice.

“Do you remember Bracca?” She asked. Crosshair met her gaze, raising an eyebrow.

“…I do.” Is all that he responded.

“Did you mean it when you wanted your soldiers to aim for me..?” Omega quietly asked, as if he would yell at her for asking.

“What?” Crosshair’s face twisted.

“I remember you telling them to ‘aim for the kid’,” she recalled. “I was just wondering.”

“I’m not willing to speak about my time as commander, right now.” Crosshair brushed her off, rolling over onto his side, on his bed, facing away from her.

Omega deflated, her eyes softening.

Crosshair winced at the memory. The poor kid. Here they are, after everything, and he would never dare to leave her behind; nor would be ever dare to let anyone with ill intentions lay a finger on her.

Does she forgive him for what he did when he was with the Empire?

Of course she does…

But what if she doesn’t?

They’ve never really talked about it, after-all. Whenever one of them tried, the other shut it down.

But he needed to know.

Standing up at the patio table, he tossed his toothpick off to the side. He made his way to the entrance, opening the back door to their small home. He treaded through their home, his eyes glazing over the living room furniture, looking for his little sister.

Finally in the hallway, he reached Omega’s room. The door was shut.

Slowly raising his hand, he racked his knuckles against the wooden door.

“Yeah?” Omega’s voice chimed up.

“It’s Crosshair.” Cross answered.

“Come in!” The girl welcomed. In response, he opened the door.

She was sat on her bed, holding Lula in one hand, and another doll (gifted from Hunter), in the other hand. Of course, she was just playing.

Crosshair made his way to her bed, sitting down on the edge.

“How’s it going?” He asked.

“Good. How are you?” Omega responded, still holding her toys.

“Good. Got your dolls?” He inquired, motioning with his head to the objects in her hands.

“Yep.” Omega nodded, before handing Lula to Crosshair. He took it in his hand, feeling her soft fabric in his fingers.

She began to play with her doll once more, making quiet voices.

“Omega, I was thinking.” Crosshair chimed up once more. “Do you remember on Tantiss, when we would talk in the cells?” He asked awkwardly, unsure of how to proceed.

Omega put her doll down.

“Yeah. I remember. Why?” Her voice lowered slightly, meeting his gaze in seriousness. He felt his insides twist, and took a deep inhale.

“I… wanted to tell you that I’m sorry. I wasn’t a good brother to you. On Bracca… I should’ve never commanded anyone to aim for you.” Crosshair spoke up finally, fidgeting with Lula in his hand.

Omega was silent. Instead, she crawled across the bed, pushing herself into his arms.

“It’s okay.” She whispered. “You saved me, on Kamino. Thank you for that, Crosshair.”

“I’ll never let anyone hurt you again, Omega.” Crosshair spoke quietly.

“I know.” She reassured, her voice low.

“Do you forgive me?” He asked; pleading.

Omega sat up, meeting his gaze. She glanced between both of his eyes, as if questioning if he was serious. Her gaze softened.

“Crosshair, I forgave you the moment it happened.” She spoke in such certainty. “Besides. All of that is behind us, those days are gone. It’s you and me, little brother.” She smiled at her use of the nickname.

He rolled his eyes, smiling fondly.

“Yeah. You and me.” He wrapped an arm around her, pulling her closer into himself. “Seriously though, as long as I can help it, you are safe.”

“Crosshair,” Omega whined, long and drawn out. “I know!” She huffed, before collapsing her weight into his body. She exhaled in a peaceful sigh. “You made the shot. We’re alright.”

The words rested with Crosshair. He inhaled and exhaled, feeling her weight on him, running his fingers through her blonde hair.

I made the shot.

“We’re alright.” He echoed quietly, sitting on his little sister’s bed, with her in his arms. He felt himself start to drift off into a peaceful quiet.

Chapter Text

It had been a few days since the Batch’s move into their new home; so the house was still fresh.

One thing they could all agree on, was that it was a lovely home. Echo visited occasionally, aiding them in decorating the interior of the house. A neighbor had taught them how to use the kitchen, and it definitely took the most time to get used to.

For all of their lives, they have either eaten pre-packed rations, or at a pub, food stand, or diner. They have never necessarily prepared anything.

That being said, they burned the first few foods that they attempted to make. When Echo visited, he managed to pick up the art of cooking, under the instruction of Shep. Besides Echo, Wrecker was the second best cook of the squad.

When Wrecker and Crosshair would go fishing in the afternoons, out on the boat, they would return with fish for Wrecker to cook. Occasionally, Hunter would take over on the nights that Wrecker didn’t want to cook.

On the weekends, and nights in which no one wanted to initiate the meals, they would eat out somewhere on the island. It was a nice pattern that they fell into.

Most nights were peaceful and quiet on Pabu.

This however, was a night that they seemed to disagree on how they would spend it.

“I wanna play Dejarik!” Omega suggested.

“You always wanna play Dejarik!” Wrecker countered, throwing his arms into the air.

“Let’s do Sabaac. One round, then it’s bedtime.” Hunter decided, already gathering the needed cards.

“Sabaac? You’re starting to sound like Echo.” Crosshair chuckled at his choice of game. Hunter winced at his brother’s words.

“Go play solitaire by yourself.” Hunter grumbled in response.

For family game night, it would be Sabaac. One round. Then bedtime.

But one round turned into two.

And two turned into three.

Hunter, who had his deck in hand, glanced past his cards, out to Omega. She always managed to catch his eye; his little girl.

Yet she seemed spaced, zoning out. Her eyes seemed to focus on a spot on the wall, her expression blank. He noticed that this wasn’t the first time this has happened.

“Omega.” Hunter spoke up finally.

Somehow she didn’t hear him.

Wrecker bumped her shoulder, earning an electric flinch out of the girl.

“Easy.” Hunter moderated, lifting his hand ever so slightly. “What happened?” He inquired.

“I’m sorry. I’m tired. That’s all.” Omega began rubbing at her eyes, forcing a yawn. Crosshair raised his hand, laying it on her shoulder in a reassuringly manner.

“Aw, kid! Feel free to nap on me, I won’t let you fall over.” Wrecker scooted closer to the young girl, offering her his arm. Omega took it, barely hesitating. Rather than napping, she wrapped her small hand around his bicep, leaning her cheek against his arm.

“It is getting late. That’s on me for allowing multiple sessions.” Hunter came to the realization, sighing. “Let’s pack up and head to bed.”

As the men began packing up their session of Sabaac, Crosshair made his way to his bedroom, decidedly ready to sleep. Wrecker yawned, retreating to the kitchen for a glass of milk. That left Hunter to finish cleaning up the cards.

“Hunter?” A quiet voice spoke up.

“Yes?” Hunter turned around, abandoning the cards for the girl.

She stood for a second, wringing her fingers, in a way that she did when she had just joined them; when she was just a child. “Are you okay?” Hunter urged the girl.

“Mhm. Can you come with me to my room?” Omega asked, as though she was embarrassed. Truthfully, the question took the former sergeant off-guard, as he hadn’t expected it.

“Sure thing. Give me one moment.”

And he was true to his word. When he had finished packing up their game night, he followed the girl down the hallway, into her room. He switched on the light for her, illuminating her room.

Omega glanced around the space, as if she was attempting to memorize the homemade posters on her walls, or the shells on her windowsill.

“Thank you.” Omega turned to face her guardian.

“Is that all? Are you okay?” Hunter knelt down to her level, his gaze softening.

“I’m good, really. I just…” She hesitated. “I’m good.” She concluded. Hunter lingered for a moment, silently hoping that she would tell her more; that she would open up to him.

Even if she feared being a burden, it was all that he wanted, to help his little girl.

“Omega, you know that I’m here if you need anything.” Hunter leaned to rub his palm and fingers on her arm.

“I know, Hunter.” She exhaled, nodding.

Hunter folded his lips, knowing that she wouldn’t tell him what was going on. He stood, his gaze still on the girl.

“Find me if you need me, Mega. I’ll be here.” He spoke softly, promising. She nodded once in response, before going off to get ready for bed.

So, Hunter retreated to his own room, after wishing his brothers goodnight. He changed into his pajamas; where he once had worn blacks to bed, typical to clones, they had been destroyed on the Marauder.

So instead, he slept in sweatpants and a t-shirt. He combed through his hair, before tying it into a messy, low man bun.

He would admit that he is a bit of a messy sleeper; rolling over in his sleep, drooling onto his pillow. Yet he collapsed into bed, holding one of his pillows in his arm.

And he drifted to sleep quickly.

It was somewhere between midnight and morning when he heard rustling in the living room.

He immediately sat up, questioning if the noise had been a dream. With his heightened senses, he may have been the only one to hear it.

So rather than rushing to conclusions, he listened quietly. Sure enough, there was a rustle again; movement.

In one swift motion, he was out of bed and grabbing his blaster. Quietly, he snuck into the hallway, moving silently towards the living room, his blaster lowered.

His mind prepared him for the worst. It could be a home invasion, a robbery.

An imperial after Omega. She was supposed to be safe.

Yet when he entered the living room, he wasn’t prepared for the sight before him.

Omega appeared to be looking for things along the wall, occasionally glancing towards the window.

“Mega?” Hunter’s voice rung through the night. Omega flinched in a way that made his heart ache.

“Hunter!” Omega’s whisper sounded like she had been caught in a crime.

“What in the stars is going on, kid?” At this point, Hunter was plain exhausted, setting his blaster on the table. His eyes weren’t fully adjusted, and he could easily fall asleep any moment.

Omega was silent in response, before she brought her hands to her mouth. “I don’t wanna be back there.” She muttered quietly. Hunter knew where ‘there’ was immediately.

“Omega, you are in our home on Pabu.” He immediately began mentally grounding her, having recognized the signs from when Echo often had night terrors.

“I-I know but, what if we need to escape? We need a plan.” According to the tone of her voice, she was also exhausted, sounding to be on the verge of sleep.

“Omega, there is no need to escape. You are safe here, ad’ika.” Hunter hushed, approaching the girl.

He knelt down to her level, meeting her gaze. As their eyes met, a tear rolled down her cheek. Hunter used his thumb to wipe the tear away, before cupping her cheek in his hand. Her cheek fit perfectly in his palm, a reminder of how small and young she still was.

Omega leaned into his gentle touch.

“I’m sorry, Hunter. I’m so scared of waking up and being back there.” She cried, bringing her hands to anchor around his wrist. Hunter heard her pulse, her heart-rate rapid in panic.

“Shh, you will not wake up there, I promise. No one’s taking you away from us.” Hunter hushed, using his other hand to brush his fingers through her hair. He directed her head towards his shoulder, bringing her into his chest.

He held her until Omega’s breathing began to steady, heart-rate calming down.

“Omega,” He began.

“Hm?” The girl responded, still tucked in his chest.

“I need to know what they did to you; tell me what you need to get off of your chest.” Hunter finally asked the question he’s been daring to ask since she’d escaped the first time.

“I don’t know what you mean.” Omega began to struggle against his hold, her voice growing shaky once more.

“Omega.” Hunter’s voice grounded her. The girl hesitated, then took an inhale.

“Everything was so empty. It was maddening. The leaky faucet was maddening. And Hemlock. He always wanted to push me to my limits with everything.” Omega responded.

“What do you mean?” Hunter pulled back, steadying the back of her head in his palm.

“Of course they experimented on me. But… They’d threaten me with ‘revoking my privileges’. Hemlock shut my window at one point after I got in trouble, and I was trapped in darkness for hours at a time. They’d hurt Crosshair if I didn’t cooperate.” Omega explained through shaky breath. Hunter felt his blood run cold.

“Hunter, I’m so scared that when I wake up, I’ll be back in that lifeless facility. I’m scared that when I go to my room, Hemlock will be… waiting for me. That any of my privileges will be revoked, and that I’ll be left in darkness, or not allowed to eat.” Omega’s voice sounded raw in vulnerability.

The anger which rose in Hunter caused his hand to tremble in rage. He wanted to smash his fist into the wall, as a result of the pure anger over what they did to his little girl.

He felt his lip curl into a snarl of disgust.

Hunter instead steadied her head against his chest once more, using his other hand to steady her back.

“Omega. I know that I can’t promise everything, but I promise you that you will never return to that place. Their data is destroyed, that facility is destroyed. Not to mention that I would rather die than allow them to even lay a finger on you. But it’s over, Tantiss is destroyed and we won.” Hunter hushed. Omega wrapped her arms around Hunter’s neck. “I say it’s time that we try to go to sleep again. What do you say, ad’ika?” Hunter spoke quietly.

“Mhm.” Omega nodded against Hunter’s neck. He stood, steadying her position against him. Rather than dropping her off at her room, he carried his kid to his own bedroom.

“Climb on.” He told her, lowering her onto the mattress. She transferred onto the bed, sprawling herself into his messy blankets. It smelled like him.

Shortly after her, Hunter climbed onto the bed, joining her under the blankets. He opened an arm to her, allowing her to lay her head upon his chest. 

As she did so, he wrapped his arm protectively around her, steadying the blankets around her. With his thumb, he rubbed circles into her shoulder.

He nestled his lips comfortably against the line between her forehead and hairline. The scent of her shampoo felt grounding to him as well; in reassurance that she was here, and that she was safe, and that he would never allow anyone to hurt her again.

“No one’s gonna harm you,” he spoke quietly to the girl, “not while I’m around.”

At that, Omega only burrowed herself further into his chest, laying her arm across his chest.

Hunter waited until he felt her breathing steady, indicating a peaceful sleep. Shortly after, he joined her in sleep.

Chapter Text

Crosshair sat at the top of the shore, surveying the kids as they played in the ocean.

Omega and Lyana giggled amongst each other, as the two were knee-deep in the water. They stood talking, telling stories to one another. Occasionally, Lyana would splash Omega, causing the girl to erupt into laughter.

Omega leaned down into the water, brushing her fingers over the sand. Standing up straight once more, she held a small seashell in her hand.

“Look at this one!” Omega exclaimed, her eyes growing wide at the sight of the shell. It was a white shell, with hints of blue and purple through the pigment. After admiring the shell for a moment, she held it up in the air. “Crosshair, look at this shell!”

The man nodded in response, meaning “very cool”.

“Can I braid your hair after this?” He overheard Lyana ask.

“Of course!” Omega was more than happy to comply. “And we can make bracelets!”

“Ohh, yes!” Lyana’s face lit up at the idea.

Crosshair smiled at the ongoing conversation of the girls. Before coming to Pabu, he knew that Omega must’ve been cooped up in the Marauder, with all men.

He had no doubt that she loved her brothers more than life itself; yet to have another girl friend who was her age?

That was special for Omega and Lyana.

A gasp from Omega shook Crosshair from his thoughts.

“Look!” She exclaimed, pointing her finger towards the water below her. “Fish!”

Lyana smiled at Omega’s reaction; of course, growing up on Pabu, she had been used to coming in contact with fish and the other sea creatures. Unlike Omega, Lyana’s passion and specialty was her love for the sea.

Her skin was well kissed by the sun, from hours spent on the shore. She had knowledge of things concerning the ocean, in which Omega had yet to learn.

“If you stay still, they’ll swim around your feet!” Lyana’s radiant smile was challenging to the sun of Pabu.

Omega met Lyana’s gaze, matching the girl’s smile.

Crosshair smiled at the girls, as three other figures entered onto the beach from behind him.

“Mox, Deke, Stak! Come see the fish!” Omega called, waving her hand. The young clones looked at one another, before breaking out into a sprint.

“Coming!!” They shouted.

On Pabu, the kids got to be kids. In a way, Crosshair felt his insides shift. He would’ve preferred this life as cadets, over the one they were dealt on Kamino.

As he was lost in his thoughts, he felt the space past his right wrist begin to itch.

He glanced down at his lone wrist, where his hand was severed.

Phantom itch.

Echo used to speak about those.

Truthfully, he wasn’t entirely sure of how to handle those. So, he began jerking his arm from side to side, an attempt to alleviate the itch.

Yet when nothing worked, he grumbled as he rose to his feet.

“Omega,” he called, “I’m heading in.”

The girl said something short to Lyana, before jogging to Crosshair from the water.

“What happened?” Omega inquired, her head twisting.

“It’s itching again. I’m just gonna go inside.” Crosshair muttered, gripping his wrist.

“Here.” Omega spoke in a soothing voice, making grabbing motions with her hands. Raising an eyebrow, Crosshair let Omega hold his wrist.

The girl began rubbing his wrist, the stump where his hand used to be, in a gentle massage.

“What are you doing?” Crosshair asked, his tone nothing but confused.

“When Echo doesn’t have his prosthetics, he does this to alleviate pains and itches.” Omega reminded, having seen him do it a couple times.

Now that she mentioned it, Crosshair was able to remember him doing that, before Kaller.

“How’s it feel?” Omega inquired, meeting Crosshair’s eyes.

“Alright, I guess. Thanks. I’m still just gonna head inside.” Cross scoffed, his gaze falling to the sand. Omega exhaled, a sympathetic sigh.

“Okay. I hope it feels better.” The girl wished, before watching him leave.

Crosshair held his wrist within his other hand, his lip snarled in frustration.

His severed hand was always giving him issues; either it itched, it ached, or he couldn’t perform the same tasks that the others were capable of.

When he went fishing with Wrecker, it was nice to spend time with his brother; but Wrecker was always the one who had to reel in Crosshair’s line.

Part of him wished he hadn’t teased Echo when the former arc had first joined the squad; living without a hand is karking osik.

Crosshair made his way up the stone stairs, accidentally missing a step and slipping. He went to grab the rail; except he attempted to grab with his severed hand, resulting in him hitting his chest upon the stone.

When he had arrived at the house, he frustratedly threw open the door, treading inside. Without muttering a word to Wrecker or Hunter, Crosshair collapsed onto the couch.

“What happened, tooka got your tongue?” Wrecker made conversation from the kitchen.

“Wrecker, if you don’t karking shut up, I’ll kriffing kill y-“

“Crosshair. What is going on? Where’s Omega?” Hunter broke the interaction, asking instead.

“Omega’s fine. I’m karking exhausted of this.” Crosshair held up his lone wrist stump at Hunter. Hunter frowned at the man, unsure of how to proceed.

“Do you want me to comm Echo?” Hunter offered.

“I don’t know. I just wish I didn’t have to live with my hand like this.” Crosshair exhaled, laying his head back onto the couch.

Hunter folded his lips, approaching his younger brother. He sat on the corner of the couch, laying a hand on Crosshair’s knee.

“I’m sorry that things worked out this way. The Empire, they’re corrupt.” Hunter spoke.

“They took everything from me.” Crosshair groaned.

“If we could trade spots so that you wouldn’t have to go through that, I would.” Hunter attempted to comfort.

“That doesn’t change anything.” Crosshair hissed, sitting up. “I still can’t tell if it was unfair, or if I deserved it…” The man hissed, at this point holding back tears.

“Crosshair.” Hunter’s gaze softened at the man. Crosshair hung his head, snarling his lips and scrunching his eyes. Tears began to burn on his cheeks. “Come here.” Hunter spoke softly, bringing his hand behind his younger brother’s head, directing him into his embrace.

Crosshair, who would never admit it, quickly wrapped his arms around Hunter’s torso, as silent tears began to roll down his cheeks.

“This makes me feel so weak. All of it.” Crosshair hissed.

“You were never weak, not for one moment, vod’ika.” Hunter spoke quietly to his brother. Crosshair felt himself tense at the nickname; Hunter hadn’t called any of them that, since they were cadets on Kamino. “You didn’t deserve this, Cross. The Empire treated you horribly. But I’ll tell you exactly what I’ve been telling Omega; you are safe now. There is some adjusting to be done, but you are never going back to the Empire.”

Crosshair only nodded, leaning into his older brother.

“I commed Echo and explained what was going on.” Wrecker spoke up. “He said he was already planning to visit us, but that he’ll be on his way shortly.”

Crosshair only nodded in response. Wrecker and Hunter have been easing him in reassuring that it’s okay to need help.

So rather than hissing ‘Why would you bother Echo?’ Crosshair merely accepted the aid.

Wrecker sat on the other side of Crosshair, bringing the man into a hug. Crosshair, still standoff-ish by nature, quickly wormed his way out of the hug, snarling at Wrecker in the process.

“You’re strong, Crosshair, and brave.” Wrecker instead laid a hand on his little brother’s shoulder, squeezing ever so lightly.

“I know it hasn’t been easy, but we’re so proud of you for how you’ve been adjusting to everything.” Hunter reassured. “Whatever you need help with Cross, anything, we’ll do our best to supply it.”

Crosshair only sighed. “Can’t get me a new hand.”

Wrecker glared sympathetically at the ground, desperately wishing there was more he could do.

“What do you want for dinner tonight? Your pick.” Wrecker attempted to ease.

Crosshair sighed an exhale. “I like your shrimp tacos.”

“Then that’s what you’ll get.” Wrecker knocked his brother in the arm, before bringing him into a comforting side hug.

Echo didn’t take long to arrive, just as he had told Wrecker. The moment that Echo had entered into the house, he stopped to scan the interior.

“You added a carpet since I’ve last visited.” Echo recalled. “It looks nice.”

“Thanks.“ Hunter responded, his arms proudly crossed. “Wrecker’s making shrimp tacos tonight, are you planning on staying for dinner?”

“Shrimp tacos, huh? Certainly then.” Echo answered, looking satisfied. “Where’s Cross?”

Hunter motioned to the hallways, where Crosshair emerged.

“Hey, Echo.” Crosshair greeted, meeting the former arc halfway. The two met one another in a swift handclasp.

“I heard you’re having some troubles. Let’s talk about it, we can go to the patio?” Echo offered.

“Sounds like a plan.” Crosshair sighed, as the two broke off.

“You can ice the stump as well; it also helps alleviate weird phantom pains or itches.” Echo explained, before Omega approached them mid-conversation.

“Echo!” Omega exclaimed.

“Hey, kid!” Echo chuckled, opening his arms to the girl. She ran into his embrace.

“I missed you!” She beamed at him.

“I missed you too. Let’s catch up in a bit over dinner, okay? I’m talking to Cross right now about some stuff.” Echo explained. Omega nodded, before running off inside. After she was out of earshot, the two continued.

“I just… haven’t necessarily adjusted to being without a hand.” Crosshair sighed.

“I know. Have you ever fallen and tried to catch yourself, only to realize you used your missing hand?” Echo wondered.

“About three times now.” Crosshair scoffs. “Even once today. I’m just tired of it.”

“I understand that.” Echo began. “I remember when I did that constantly. One time, about a year or two ago, our team was on a mission on the planet Aynaboni. Wrecker, Hunter, and I had to retrieve a package, while Tech and Omega were studying. Anyways, Wrecker ended up disturbing an angry nest of Aggrocrabs, and we had to run for it. During the mission, I tripped over my own metal legs, attempted to catch myself with my scomp, and ended up face-planting into the sandy water.” Echo retold the story, shaking his own head at himself.

“During a mission? I couldn’t imagine that.” Crosshair chuckled.

“It was embarrassing. But it happens, it’s okay.” Echo smiled at his younger brother.

“Will this always be a struggle?” Crosshair asked genuinely.

“You grow used to it, and learn ways to manage it; but things will never truly be the same.” Echo responded. Crosshair nodded, understanding his answer, but falling silent, his gaze falling to the ground. “However, I brought you something.”

Crosshair glanced at his brother, perking an eyebrow. Occasionally, Echo brought him pieces and modifications for his firepuncher. Yet when Echo reached into his bag, he pulled out a rectangular metallic box. There were no blaster brands listed on the box, which piqued Crosshair’s curiosity.

“Open it.” Echo urged. Crosshair met his gaze once more, before unclasping the metal locks.

Once the box opened, Crosshair laid eyes on what its content was.

A robotic, cybernet hand.

It was black and gray, with highlights of red. Crosshair found tears clouding his vision; he couldn’t remember when he started crying.

“Echo… What is…”

“I figured AZI could attach it for you. I got it modified, and customized to look similar to General Skywalker’s, from the war.” Echo responded in a smile.

“General Skywalker..? Had a..?”

“Prosthetic? Yep, he did. It was his hand too, like you and I.” Echo smiled at the man.

“Echo… I don’t know what to say.” Crosshair slowly covered his mouth, a tear rolling down his cheek.

“You’re welcome, vod.” Echo laid a hand on Crosshair’s shoulder. “Let’s get AZI to work on it after dinner, you can check it out. It won’t fully fix the issue, but it’ll be a great aid.”

Crosshair gazed at his brother, a kind appreciation in his eyes.

“Thank you, Echo. I can’t believe this.” Crosshair inhaled slowly.

“No way, is that a new hand?!” Wrecker boomed, entering onto the patio, with a plate full of shrimp tacos in hand.

Chapter Text

The soft hum of the ocean breeze rustled through the trees on Pabu, carrying with it the gentle sounds of the tranquil village. Omega had spent the day exploring the island with Mox, Deke, and Stak, loving every moment of the peace it provided. After months of running, fighting, and living on edge, the serenity of Pabu felt like a dream. She smiled as she wandered toward their small home on the outskirts of the village, moments after bidding her farewells to her friends. She heard the familiar deep voices of her brothers inside.

As she approached, Omega caught the sound of Wrecker’s voice. His usual boisterous tone was softer, almost vulnerable, and she instinctively slowed her steps. There was something different in the way he was talking, and she didn’t want to interrupt. Curiosity piqued, she stopped just before the doorway, out of sight but within earshot.

“I had the same nightmare again,” Wrecker was saying, his voice low. He seemed to be speaking to Hunter and Crosshair. “She… she was gone. We were searching everywhere, but we couldn’t find her. I kept thinking she was calling for me, and I couldn’t reach her.” His voice cracked, a rare break in his normally unshakable demeanor. “It felt so real.”

Omega’s heart clenched.

Hunter’s calm voice followed, soothing and steady. “I get it, Wrecker. I have those dreams too; you’re not the only one. Ever since she got captured, I’ve had nightmares about losing her.” There was a pause before he added, quietly. “I wake up in a panic sometimes, thinking something’s happened. But she’s strong. You know that.”

Wrecker let out a heavy sigh. “Yeah, I know. But it still scares me.”

Hunter nodded. “We’ll always protect her, no matter what.”

Omega stood frozen, her heart swelling at the words. They had been through so much together, and despite everything, they still worried about her safety.

After a moment, Omega decided to make her presence known. She stepped into the doorway, plastering a bright smile on her face, pretending she hadn’t just heard the conversation between her brothers. “Hey! What are you guys up to?”

The atmosphere shifted immediately. Wrecker sat up straight, his usual grin back in place, though his eyes still held a hint of that vulnerability. “Omega! We were just… uh, talking about dinner! Yeah, dinner. I miss my shrimp tacos.”

Hunter turned toward her with a smile that was warm and reassuring. “How was your day, Omega? Did you find anything interesting on the beach?”

She glanced between them, noting how quickly they masked their earlier emotions, and for a moment, she considered saying something. But she decided against it. Instead, she smiled and said, “Yeah! I found a perfect spot for fishing tomorrow. Even better than Wrecker’s spot last week. You guys should come!”

Wrecker’s grin widened, his earlier concern forgotten in the moment. “Fishing? Count me in, yeah! I bet I can catch something bigger than you!” He boomed loudly.

Hunter chuckled, reaching down to ruffle Omega’s hair as she scurried past him. “We’ll see about that!” The young girl challenged the gentle giant.

Omega joined them, sitting between Wrecker and Hunter in the kitchen, feeling the warmth of their presence. Despite the lighthearted banter, she couldn’t shake the feeling of gratitude for her brothers. They had been through so much, and even though they tried to hide their fears from her, she knew they cared deeply.

As the evening settled in and the soft glow of the setting sun bathed the home in golden light, Omega looked around at the faces of her family; her brothers.

As the golden hues of the sunset deepened, casting a soft glow through the home, Omega relaxed between her brothers on the couch, laughing at Wrecker’s playful boasting about his fishing skills. The warmth of the moment wrapped around her, but as the conversation drifted on, she absentmindedly raised a hand to her hair, fingers tangling in the knotted strands. She tugged a little too hard, wincing as the mess caught between her fingers.

Before she could react, Hunter gently grabbed her wrist, stopping her. His dark eyes softened as he looked at her, noticing how roughly she had been handling her hair. He didn’t say a word, just released her hand and stood up, leaving the room quietly.

Omega blinked in confusion, watching him disappear around the corner. Wrecker raised an eyebrow but didn’t comment, simply leaning back with a stretch, clearly content to let Hunter handle whatever was going on.

A moment later, Hunter returned, holding something in his hand. Omega’s eyes widened as she realized it was a hairbrush. He moved back to her side, holding it up with a small smile.

“Can I?” he asked, his voice calm and steady, as though this was the most natural thing in the world.

Omega hesitated for a moment, but then nodded. “Oh. Yeah, sure.”

Hunter sat behind her, shifting her hair gently over her shoulder. The brush moved through her blonde locks with a tenderness that surprised her. At first, there were tangles, and she winced a little as he carefully worked through them, but his touch was so patient, so deliberate, that soon she relaxed into it.

The rhythmic motion of the brush moving through her hair had a calming effect. The tension in her muscles began to melt away as Hunter continued, his movements slow and soothing. She leaned forward slightly, her eyelids growing heavier with each stroke.

Wrecker watched with a quiet smile, noticing how Omega was slowly drifting into a half-awake state. He caught Crosshair’s eye, who gave a faint smirk before turning his attention back to cleaning his rifle, pretending not to care but clearly watching the tender scene unfold.

Omega felt herself slipping into a daze, her head leaning to one side as the gentle brushing lulled her closer and closer to sleep. Hunter’s quiet presence behind her made her feel safe, grounded in the moment.

“I promise, kiddo.” Hunter said softly, his voice barely above a whisper. “You’re safe with us. You always will be.”

Omega didn’t respond; she didn’t need to. Her eyes fluttered closed, and in that peaceful space between waking and sleep, she felt an overwhelming sense of comfort. The nightmares, the battles, the chaos, they were all distant now. Here, in the quiet of Pabu, surrounded by her brothers, she was home.

And with the steady, gentle strokes of the brush, Omega let herself drift into the soft embrace of sleep.

The early morning sun painted the sky with soft pink and orange hues, casting a calm glow over Pabu. Omega stirred in her bed, feeling the warmth of the sunrise on her face, and quietly slipped out from under her covers.

She glanced at her brothers’ rooms from across the hall; Crosshair and Wrecker’s door was closed, meaning they were still sleeping. Hunter’s door is normally open, but Omega heard him snoring. After all they’d been through, they needed rest, and Omega didn’t want to disturb them.

She smiled to herself, the memory of Hunter brushing her hair still fresh in her mind. Feeling adventurous and eager to explore, she decided to head down to the beach. It wasn’t far, and she’d be back before her brothers even woke up. Besides, Pabu was safe now. Hunter promised it. No need to wake them.

She grabbed her seashell bag and quietly tiptoed out of their small home, gently closing the door behind her. The morning was beautiful, and the sound of the waves calling from the beach made her grin. The beach was her favorite place on the planet.

As she walked along the shore, her boots sinking into the soft sand, Omega took in the peaceful scene. The whole world felt calm and perfect in this moment. She waded ankle-deep into the cool water, laughing softly as it splashed around her legs.

Back at the cabin, Hunter’s instincts kicked in before he even opened his eyes. Something felt… off. He blinked awake, his senses immediately scanning the room. Pushing the intruding thought away, he got up for the day.

He pushed himself out of bed, before traveling down the hall to make breakfast. As he passed Omega’s room, he turned to glance at her sleeping form. Instead, eyes landed on Omega’s empty bed, and his heart skipped a beat. He sat up, listening for any sound of her.

“Wrecker, Crosshair,” he called, his voice suddenly urgent. “Omega’s gone.”

Wrecker sat up instantly, his eyes wide in panic as he bolted from his bedroom. “What? Gone?! Where did she go?”

“I don’t know,” Hunter replied, already moving toward the front door. “I-I don’t hear her.”

Crosshair stood up, his face stoic but his eyes sharp with concern. “She wouldn’t just leave without saying something.”

Hunter’s heart raced as he moved quickly outside, scanning the area for any sign of her. His enhanced senses were on high alert, his mind racing with the possibilities—had someone taken her? Had she wandered too far? What if she was in danger?

“Omega!” Wrecker’s booming voice echoed across the clearing, his usual carefree demeanor replaced by sheer panic. “OMEGA!”

Hunter clenched his fists, his heart pounding in his chest. “She wouldn’t go far,” he muttered, more to himself than to his brothers. “She knows better…”

But despite his words, the familiar fear began to claw at him; the same fear he felt every time one of his nightmares took hold. Losing her was his worst fear, and now it felt like it was happening in real life - again. His stomach churned as he looked to Wrecker, who was already running toward the edge of the village, shouting her name. No, no, no. It wasn’t supposed to be this way. They were supposed to be safe. Nothing dangerous was supposed to happen on Pabu anymore.

Hunter wasn’t thinking clearly. His protective instincts were in overdrive, and all he could think about was finding Omega. His mind flashed with worst-case scenarios; what if someone had taken her while they were sleeping? What if she’d gotten lost?

Omega, blissfully unaware of the chaos back at the cabin, sat on a large rock near the shore, watching the waves crash softly against the beach. She had found some pretty shells along the way and was considering collecting more to show Wrecker later.

She lifted a particularly pretty shell to the sunlight, admiring the way it shimmered, when the unmistakable sound of hurried footsteps reached her ears. Turning her head, she saw Hunter sprinting down the path toward the shore.

“Omega!”

Something wasn’t right.

Omega stood quickly, the shell slipping from her fingers as she stepped down from the rocks. “Hunter?” she called out, her voice gentle but full of concern.

“Maker, where were you?! What were you doing?!” He asked in a panic, gripping her shoulders. His own shoulders were tight, and his usually sharp, clear eyes were clouded with fear. He looked around frantically, as if making sure nothing was lurking in the shadows, his breath coming faster and more erratic with every second.

Omega’s heart sank.

Without a word, she moved toward him, her small hand reaching out to touch his arm. “Hunter,” she said softly, her voice calm and steady, despite the fear she could see rising in him. “It’s okay. I’m right here. I’m okay.”

But he didn’t seem to hear her. His breaths were coming in quick, uneven bursts, his hands trembling as he stared at her, like he couldn’t quite believe she was standing in front of him. The raw fear in his eyes made Omega’s chest tighten, and for a moment, she didn’t know what to do.

Then instinct took over.

Omega gently placed her hands on his shoulders, guiding him to sit down on the nearest rock. She knelt in front of him, her hands moving to his, holding them firmly, before moving into his arms. They held each other in a gentle, yet grounding, hug.

“Hunter,” she repeated softly, her voice barely above a whisper. “It’s okay. I’m here. I’m okay. Breathe with me.” She inhaled deeply, then slowly exhaled, demonstrating the pace she wanted him to follow. “In… and out,” she said soothingly. “Nice and slow. Just like you have shown me so many times.”

Hunter’s eyes were still wild, his breaths still uneven, but he followed her lead. Slowly, painfully, he began to mimic her breathing, his chest rising and falling in time with hers. Omega never broke contact, her voice soft and full of love, like a daughter speaking to her father after a bad dream.

“That’s it,” she whispered. “I’m right here.”

As the seconds passed, his breathing began to even out, the tightness in his shoulders slowly loosening. The fear in his eyes dimmed, replaced by something more vulnerable. Omega could feel the tension leaving his body, though his grip on her hands remained tight.

“I thought…” Hunter finally whispered, his voice shaky, almost broken. “I thought I lost you… again.”

Omega’s heart ached at his words. She squeezed his hands gently, her eyes softening. “I’m so sorry, Hunter. I didn’t mean to scare you. I didn’t think-“

“No no, you didn’t do anything wrong, ad’ika.” He interrupted, his voice thick with emotion. He shook his head, pulling her closer as if reassuring himself that she was still there. “I just- when I woke up and you were gone… I couldn’t find you.” His voice cracked, and he closed his eyes, taking in a shuddering breath. “I thought someone had taken you. I just.. wasn’t thinking straight. I- I know Hemlock is gone.”

Omega’s throat tightened at the pain in his words.

She leaned forward, resting her head gently on his chest, her small arms wrapping around him. “I’m here.” She whispered, her voice filled with all the love she had for him. “And I’m not going anywhere.”

Hunter’s arms encircled her tightly, pulling her close against him, as if he could protect her from everything in the galaxies by holding on. For a long moment, they stayed like that, the sound of the waves in the background, the warmth of the sun wrapping around them.

“I’m sorry,” Omega murmured, her voice muffled by his chest. “I should have told you where I was going. I didn’t mean to worry you.”

Hunter let out a shaky sigh, his grip on her never loosening. “I just… I can’t lose you again, kid. I can’t.”

“And you won’t,” she promised softly, pulling back just enough to look up at him. “You won’t lose me. I’ll always come back to you. I promise.”

He looked down at her, his eyes still glassy but filled with love. He nodded slowly, releasing a breath he’d been holding for too long. “Okay,” he whispered. “Okay.”

Omega smiled gently, resting her hand on his cheek, the same way he often comforted her.

Hunter gave her a weak smile, his heart still pounding but steadying under her touch.

For the first time that morning, the fear ebbed away, leaving behind a quiet calm. Hunter’s panic had passed, and as he looked at Omega, he felt the overwhelming gratitude that she was there, safe and sound.

Without another word, he pulled her back into his arms, hugging her tightly once more. Omega closed her eyes, leaning into the embrace, feeling the love and protection he offered, knowing that no matter what happened, they would face it together.

“There she is!” Wrecker boomed from the shore, gazing down at the two, before comm-ing Crosshair that they found her. “What were you doing, kiddo?”

“I got more shells to show you!” Omega beamed.