Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

This prologue is very short so bear with me.

“So when are we supposed to meet him?” Wrecker excitedly boomed.

“If you’re referring to the General, I believe you mean ‘her’-“ Tech replies.

“WHOAH. A GIRL?!”

Tech sighed.

“Yes. General (L/N). Padawan to Plo Koon. Raised in the temple with General Kenobi. The two are reportedly close. General (L/N) is known as a favorite among the clones. Her kindness and compassion is what makes her so popular. There isn’t much else regarding her history. She’s an elf from Mirkwood, which attributes incredible athleticism. She is also near immortal. Good friends with Senator Amidala, Senator Organa, Commander Cody, Commander Tano, and General Skywalker. She gets the job done well and her methods are known as ‘unpredictable yet highly effective’. ” Tech pulls out his notes about the Jedi.

“Near immortal? Tech, how do you know so much about the General?” Hunter questions.

“I merely was curious and looked into her file.”

“Ah, right.”

“Whatever. It’s not like we need a Jedi with us. She’ll slow us down.” Crosshair sneers.

“Cross…” Hunter says.

“Cody likes ‘er! She must be great!” Wrecker yells.

A ship could be heard landing on the platform next to the Marauder.

Clone Force 99 had a reason why no Jedi was General of their squad. Their methods on the battlefield are considered ‘unpredictable’ or ‘unexpected’. Yet they have a 100% success rate.

The group also didn’t particularly love working with others other than themselves. Sure, General Kenobi was kind and stern, General Skywalker was cool and reckless, and General Windu was stern and aggressive, but they didn’t need a Jedi bossing them around.

“Come on boys, let’s meet the General.”

The group of five leaves the Marauder and towards Hangar 7.

There, General Kenobi, Commander Cody, and the new General stand.

All three of them seem to be conversing quietly. As if on cue, they all turned to Clone Force 99. Beginning to walk away from the ship that landed.

“Sargent Hunter, General (L/N).”

“Pleasure, I’ve been looking forward to our meeting.” (Y/N) says casually.

“This is Wrecker. Our strength.”

The big clone waved.

“Heya General!”

“This is Crosshair. Our sharpshooter.”

Hunter pointed towards the silver haired clone sulking with a toothpick in his mouth.

“And this is Tech. Our brains.” Hunter pointed to a goggled clone.

The goggled clone looked up from his datapad and for a fleeting moment, there was something (Y/N) sensed that was gone as soon as she blinked. She could not put her finger on it. He shyly averted his gaze.

The change in Tech’s mood however, did not go unnoticed by Hunter. He could feel the heat in Tech’s face. Hunter made a mental note to ask Tech about it later.

“Your enhancement, Sargent Hunter-?” (Y/N) began.

“Heightened senses, General.” Hunter answered.

“I look forward to our future missions together.” (Y/N) said without missing a beat.

“As do we.” Says Hunter.

“Speak for yourself.” Crosshair sneers.

Hunter elbowed Crosshair, who grunted in response.

“Thank you for your honesty, Crosshair. I will be sure to account for your feelings.” (Y/N) snapped in a passive aggressive voice.

“(Y/N), we must be getting going, the council wants an emergency meeting.” Kenobi places a hand on her shoulder.

“Very well. Sargent Hunter, Wrecker, Tech, Crosshair, I will see you in two standard days.”

Tech watches as their new General walks away with General Kenobi.

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“What the kriff Cross? We’re supposed to make a good impression!” Hunter sighs as they get back to the Marauder.

“We don’t need a Jedi to boss us around.” Crosshair seethes.

“I like ‘er! She seems cool!” Wrecker interrupted.

“You like anyone that has a sarcastic response to me.” Hissed Crosshair.

“Quiet you two. Tech, what’s wrong?” Hunter turns to his younger brother.

“Elaborate?” Tech asks quizzitive.

“He means you didn’t speak you dik’ut.” Crosshair spat.

“I do not understand. Am I not allowed to not speak?” Tech asked sarcastically.

“I saw you eying up the General. Don’t be so modest, my eyes never miss anything.” Crosshair smirks.

“I-I wasn’t-“ Tech’s cheeks now felt like they were burning.

“Aw, how touching, Techie’s got a crush and is blushing.” Crosshair continues.

“Enough. We have 48 standard hours to prepare for the General joining us.” Hunter dismissed.

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The ship was cleaned barely in time for the General’s arrival.

(Y/N) only had a small pack full of belongings. She never took the time to decorate her room back at the Jedi Temple. She said a couple of words in Quenya while clutching her pendant from her home.

“General.” Hunter greets.

“Sargent, there’s no need for formalities around me. I particularly do not enjoy the title ‘General’.” (Y/N) insists.

Hunter was confused to say the least.

“Are you sure?” He asks.

“Of course.”

“Well then you may call me Hunter.”

Hunter gives (Y/N) a tour of the ship.

“Heya General!” Wrecker boomed.

“Hello Wrecker. You may call me (Y/N). No need for formalities around me.”

“Oh alrigh’! Heya (Y/N)!”

(Y/N) grins kindly.

“Uhm, we have a bit of a situation.” Hunter said to (Y/N) as they left the common area.

“Yes?” (Y/N) replied nervously.

“Erm- we only have one other separate room that I use because my senses can go haywire with the boys. I can switch with you if you want-“

“Hunter. I appreciate the offer, but I’ll be fine. The squad’s health comes first always.” (Y/N) smiles.

Hunter was too stunned to speak. This was different. He didn’t expect the answer she gave.

“Are you sure?”

“Of course. I understand what it’s like to be around others so much your senses go ‘haywire’.” Says (Y/N).

“Ah right, the uh-“ Hunter pauses, realizing his mistake in wording.

“Ears, eyes, smell, etc.” (Y/N) says, not offended.

“Heh, yeah.”

The pair make their way back to the common area.

“How touching… The General is giving up her privacy for the Captain.” Crosshair sneers.

(Y/N) pauses then turns her head to Crosshair.

“I told Hunter and Wrecker to call me (Y/N), despite your attitude towards me, I would like you to do the same.”

She turns on her heel and walks to the cockpit.

Tech didn’t even realize she was in the cockpit with him until she leaned forward to get a look at the controls.

“Apologies. I didn’t mean to startle you.” She said.

“Ah, I apologize for my reaction. I am not used to the stealth acquired by elves.” Tech pushed his goggles up to the bridge of his nose.

“I believe we haven’t been properly introduced. I’m (Y/N). You’re Tech, correct?” (Y/N) reached her hand out to Tech.

Tech took it and shook her hand.

“That is correct, General.” Tech tried really hard to conceal the redness in his cheeks.

“No need for formalities Tech. (Y/N) is just fine.”

“I-I see.”

“Tech, you know, I can sense you have questions for me.” (Y/N) said softly.

“Erm- yes I do. I did not know if it would be appropriate to ask about Elven culture, for we have only known each other for a short period of time.” Tech nervously put his hand on his head.

“Tech, I’d be more than happy to answer your questions.” (Y/N) smiles kindly.

Little did the two know, this would be the beginning of a beautiful friendship, blossoming into something more.

Chapter Text

Rex is examining an old photo of Cody, Fives, himself and Echo. Kix, Jesse, and Cody approach the dormitory.

“Come on, Rex. Time to move out.” Says Cody.

“Fives, Echo, and before that, Hevy. There’s so many troopers gone.” Rex glumly states.

“Yeah. Regular folk don’t understand. Sometimes in war, it’s hard to be the one that survives.”

“That’s… what I’m worried about.” Rex admits.

“Well, what do you mean?” Cody walks closer to Rex.

“I didn’t tell the Generals. They might think I’m crazy. In fact, you might think I’m crazy.”

“What is it?” Cody presses.

“I think Echo’s alive.” Rex manages to say.

“That’s not possible. He died at the Citadel.” Cody said with wide eyes.

“The way the droids are countering us here, the strategies I’m using, they're all old battle plans Echo and I drew up together.” Continued Rex.

“Look, Rex, I hear what you’re saying. But it’s just not possible.” Cody assured.

“I hope you’re right. But the fact is, Echo’s fingerprints are all over these Separatist strategies.”

“Rex, you have to admit what you’re saying is a long shot at best, and most likely misplaced hope. I need you to be focused on this.” Says Cody.

“I know, I know. Don’t worry.” Rex shrugs.

Cody begins to walk away.

“So, what squad are we taking in?” Rex suddenly asked.

Cody pauses in the doorway.

“Clone Force 99.”

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“I’ve heard mixed things about these guys.” Jesse says.

“They have a 100% success rate.” Kix replies.

“It’s not that they win, it’s how they win that worries me.” Jesse unsurely said.

“Heard they got General (L/N). Lucky pick.”

The two walk over to Rex and Cody.

“Repeat, coming in hot on platform TT-3-9-7.” A clone’s voice said over the P.A.

A heavily modified Omicron-attack shuttle rapidly started pulling in. Clones yell and duck as crates were blown away.

“Clear the airfield! Clear the airfield!” The clone speaks over the P.A. again.

The shuttle makes it to the ground, landing rather nicely a couple inches away from Cody, Rex, Jesse, and Kix, who all shield themselves from what they thought would be their demise.

“So, why haven’t I heard of this squad?” Rex asks.

“Experimental unit Clone Force 99. They’re defective clones with uh… Desirable mutations. Led by General (L/N) herself.” Cody answered.

“99 eh? Nice touch.”

“General (L/N)? The elf Jedi?” Rex asked curiously.

“Er- yes.”

“How’d she end up with the Experimental unit?” Jesse asked.

“No one except them could keep up with her athleticism and unexpected methods of getting the job done.” Cody explained.

“They call themselves, ‘The Bad Batch.’”

Stairs come down from the shuttle. The first one out is the infamous General (L/N). Her Jedi robes are completely different to those of the normal Jedi. Even with the darker tone in clothing, she still looked elegant with her Elvish hairstyle and headdress. She flips her hair off to the side.

Next was a clone in dark gray armor, it didn’t seem to have as many modifications in the armor itself. He cracked his knuckles. Afterwards was a clone with rather strange armor. It seemed to have goggles sticking out, along with a datapad. The last two were pretty different in size. One was tall and skinny, with black armor. The other was absolutely massive.

“The cavalry has arrived!” The large one took off his helmet to reveal a scar across his eye.

Jesse and Kix exchange looks at seeing Wrecker’s appearance. (Y/N) leads her squad to the other clones. Hunter and Crosshair taking off their helmets along the way.

“These guys are clones? They don’t look like clones to me.”

(Y/N)‘s ears twitch. Indicating she’d heard them.

Tech removes his helmet next as (Y/N) shakes Cody’s hand.

“Good to see you, (Y/N).” Cody says warm, yet on edge.

“You too Cody.” (Y/N) bows her head slightly.

“Sargent, good to see you as well.”

“Likewise, sir.” Hunter tells Cody.

Cody turns to Rex, Kix, and Jesse.

“This is General (L/N). Prefers to be called (Y/N). General of Clone Force 99.” He gestured to (Y/N).

(Y/N) bowed her head in acknowledgment once again.

“This is Hunter.” Cody moved to him.

“Sorry we’re late, Commander. We were putting down an insurrection on Yalbec Prime when your comm came in. Had a few unforeseen… complications.” (Y/N) put her hand on her hip and looked at Wrecker.

Wrecker laughed.

“Ever fought a male Yalbec?” He asks.

“Um… No. Can’t say that I have.” Jesse answered awkwardly.

“You’re lucky! Only way to kill ‘em is with one of these.”

Wrecker pulled out a huge vibro knife.

“That’s right. Wrecker here cut off the queen’s stinger while she was still alive.” Said Hunter modestly.

“That’s why all those Yalbec males tried to eat us.” Hunter concluded.

“Ah, technically they were trying to mate with us. And, for your information, the stinger of a Yalbec Queen is a delicacy on some planets.” The goggled clone said.

“They call him Tech.” Cody gestured.

“Yeah, he can fill your head with useless info for hours. Crosshair, on the other hand, is not much of a conversationalist, but when you have to hit a precise target from ten klicks, Crosshair’s your man.” Says Hunter.

“So, Commander, what kind of suicide mission do you have for us this time?” (Y/N) asked.

“Let’s get going. We’ll brief you on the way” Cody starts leading the group of 9 to a gunship.

The 9 of them climb aboard. It’s pretty cramped. The red lighting giving an eerie feeling. (Y/N)’s shoulders are touching Tech’s. She can sense the unease in the shuttle. Including her own. It’s been a while since she’s worked with regs. She’s also concerned at the attitude Crosshair will give the regs.

Sure enough, the attitude from Cross has already started.

“What are you looking at?” Jesse broke the silence.

“We don’t usually work with regs.” Crosshair sneers and flicks his toothpick at Jesse, hitting him.

“Regs?” Jesse starts taking a threatening step forward to Cross.

Hunter steps in front of him.

“That’s enough Crosshair… He’s talking about regular clones. But don’t take it personal. He’s like this with everyone.” (Y/N) states calmly.

Hunter backs up slightly.

“We’re all on the same team, so cut the attitude and listen up. Here’s the mission: Our target is this Cyber Center.” Cody glares at Crosshair.

Cody pushes a button and brings up a hologram of the Cyber Center.

“It’s the brains of the entire Separatist campaign here on Anaxes.” Cody says.

“I could demolish that with one hand. Yeah!” Wrecker booms.

“This isn’t a demo job, Wrecker. It’s strictly a retrieval operation.” Cody looks at him.

“You’ll get your chance Wreck’. Just not now.” (Y/N) assures giant clone.

“Incoming fire!”

Everyone on the ship is struggling to keep balance as the gunship swerved. One particular bump was rough.

(Y/N) fell into Tech. She managed to grab the top of his chest piece before falling. Tech had reached out to catch her.

“Sorry!”

“M-my apologies!” Tech nervously said.

She uprighted herself just as they began crashing into a canyon.

“We’re going down!” Wrecker laughs as the gunship slides on the ground.

The ship finally jerked to a stop.

Wrecker helped get everyone out. (Y/N) observed the terrain and wreckage.

“We always get shot down when we travel with regs.” Says Wrecker.

Kix spots Cody trapped underneath the gunship.

“Cody! Help! He’s trapped. We have to do something!” He yells.

“I’ll get him.” Rex says.

Rex begins to walk towards the ship, before Hunter stops him.

“Woah, woah, woah, woah, woah. Easy, Captain. Wrecker, get him out.” Hunter commands.

Wrecker cracks his knuckles in confirmation.

“He’s gonna get the gunship out of there, not Cody.” Crosshair chuckles.

Wrecker puts on his helmet, and with little to no effort, pushes the gunship over. Picking up Cody and bringing him over.

“Boom.”

The gunship blows up behind him, as if on command. Wrecker places Cody down gently as Kix scans Cody.

“He has internal damage. I can cut the pain, but he needs help fast.” Kix says.

“I can heal him a little, not to the point where everything is fixed, but to help ease the pain and quicken the injuries.” (Y/N) pipes up.

“We all need help.” Crosshair says as a huge legion of droids are marching towards the group.

“That blast gave away our position.”

“Hah. I thought getting shot down gave away our position.” Hunter replied.

“(Y/N) should heal the Commander in the aftermath of the battle, Force healing takes a multitude of energy.” Tech turns to (Y/N).

“‘Force healing?’” Kix asked.

“It’s not something a lot of Jedi can do.” Explained (Y/N).

“Everyone, find cover. We’ll hold this position and let them come to us.” Rex commands.

“Sorry Captain, that’s not our style. We prefer going to them. Bad Batch, Plan 82: Shockwave!” (Y/N) responds firmly.

Wrecker picks up a large piece of wreckage. More and more droids are approaching.

“‘Kay boys, let’s get to work.” (Y/N) grins.

The Jedi ignited her lightsaber. It’s white hue glowing around her.

Rex, Jesse, and Kix had never seen a white lightsaber before. Their eyes wide with curiosity and shock.

The five of them charged forward. Wrecker used the piece of metal as a shield, as (Y/N) blocked incoming shots.

Shots were fired by the Bad Batch, each hitting their targets. While (Y/N) blocked the incoming fire, Wrecker plants down the piece of metal and starts bashing some droids.
Meanwhile, Tech used a scanner built into his helmet to scan the droids.

“45. Mark 151.” Said Tech.

“45. Mark 151.” Hunter affirmed on the comms.

Hunter threw a grenade up in the air. Impressively, Crosshair shot it dead center, and it exploded in electrical currents, shocking droids around them.

“75. Mark 357.” Tech pointed.

“75. Mark 357.” Hunter confirmed.

Hunter throws another grenade, angling it lower. A nearby droid catches it.

“What the…?” A battle droid said.

Crosshair shoots the grenade, making it explode again, taking out a larger group of droids.

(Y/N) hears a whir and turns around to see Spider Droids coming up.

“Tech! Sword and Shield Maneuver!” She yells.

Tech runs and ducks behind (Y/N). She began blocking shots from the Spider Droid.

The regs are in awe of what they’re seeing. (Y/N) and Tech’s movements are like one of the same. Their moves mirroring each other and with the graceful movements of the two made it look like a dance.

Cody chuckles and winces while he’s leaning on Kix.

“Pretty impressive huh?” He says.

“I’ve never seen the Sword and Shield Maneuver executed so well.” Rex said in awe.

They get to the Spider droid. Tech shoots the droid in the eye. While it’s malfunctioning, (Y/N) elegantly slashes the legs and stabs the head in one solid movement. Looking like she made no effort at all.

“Any more? Come on!” Wrecker jabbed.

(Y/N) retracts her lightsaber, and helps Tech up.

“Well done boys.” She called.

The Bad Batch came back to the group of regs.

“That was some show you put on just now.” Rex commented.

“Just doing our job, Captain.” Hunter said.

“A white lightsaber? I’ve never seen such a thing.” Jesse said as he pointed to the lightsaber hilt on (Y/N)’s belt.

“Ah yes. I’ve gotten that a lot. It’s a long story. For which we don’t have time for at the moment. Cody?” (Y/N) asked.

“(Y/N)?” He echoed. (Haha get it?)

“It would be wise to get a temporary camp set up before (Y/N) initiates the ‘Force-healing’ process.” Tech pipes.

“Force healing?” Jesse repeats.

“It’s when you use the Force to rapidly accelerate the healing process. It’s a power very few Jedi possess.”

“I tell ya, these Jedi abilities keep getting harder and harder to believe.” Kix exclaims.

“Might I add, it’s like transferring your energy to the person being healed, draining the Force-user’s energy temporarily. We found out the hard way.” Tech added hastily.

“Are you sure you can do this?” Rex asks.

“I will be fine.” (Y/N) says.

In the background Wrecker picks up a droid head and shoved it in Crosshair’s face.

“Hey look, Crosshair, this little clanker likes you.” Wrecker laughs.

“Grow up, Wrecker.” Crosshair sneers.

“We should move out before reinforcements arrive. Our position has been compromised.” (Y/N) suggests.

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“We wanted to speak to you directly, sir. This infiltration is irregular.” A BX Commando Droid said.

Trench clicks.

“Were there Jedi with this squad?” Trench asked.

“There was one Jedi sir. The Elven one. Along with many clones. But they used tactics we have never seen before.”

“Interesting.” Trench clicks.

“They’re on foot now, in the middle of nowhere. Sweep the area, locate these clones, and notify me if the incursion escalates. Eliminate the Jedi.”

Trench clicks one last time before ending the hologram.

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The group of nine found a spot to camp for a little while. Eight of the group are gathered around a fire. Hunter is off investigating the ground in the distance. (Y/N) prepares to heal Cody.

“So, I get what makes the other Batchers unique, but what’s so special about Hunter?” Jesse asks.

“He can put up with the other three.” Kix responded.

“He was engineered with heightened senses. A place like the Cyber Center, Hunter can feel the electromagnetic frequencies from anywhere on the planet.” Tech explains.

“And here I thought we were smart just using a holomap.” Jesse says.

“Maps can be wrong, Hunter, never is.” (Y/N) said.

Cody groans.

“Hang in there, Cody.” Rex whispers.

“Listen up. We have to move out.” He continues.

“Commander Cody’s in no position to move.” Crosshair sneers.

“Already called in Evac. Kix will stay with Cody until it arrives. I’m in charge now, and I’ve got a plan to get into that Cyber Center.” Rex bit.

“If your plans are so good, why did Commander Cody have to call us in?” Crosshair asked sarcastically,

This gets (Y/N)‘s attention and she inches closer as Wrecker does. Jesse however, decides to point in Cross’s face.

“You can’t talk to Captain Rex like that!” Jesse says.

Kix stands up in the background.

“Says who?” Wrecker threatens.

By now, everyone is up in each other’s faces, snarling threats.

Tech and (Y/N) share a look.

“Uh a fight would not be ideal on this compromised mission-“ Tech tried to say.

“What did you just say to me?!” Jesse yelled.

“ENOUGH!!!” (Y/N) yells as she lifts her right hand, using the Force to separate Wrecker and Crosshair from Kix, Jesse, and Rex.

The clones stumbled at the force of the push.

“We’re all fighting for the same cause, yes? This war is hard enough without the infighting. Countless lives have already been lost on this planet, and we’re the only ones who can stop this madness. But we can’t stop it unless we learn to trust one another’s judgments and abilities. And cut the insults…Crosshair, I’m looking at you.” (Y/N) said in her authoritative voice.

The clones blinked at her for a moment. Letting her words sink in.

(Y/N) trudged over to Cody along with Tech. Hunter came over and looked between the Bad Batch and the regs.

“She’s right, you know.” Was his only response.

Hunter walked over to Cody, (Y/N), and Tech.

Followed by the others.

Cody groaned.

(Y/N) examined Cody before sitting cross-legged in a meditative position.

She reached her hand over Cody and closed her eyes.

She let herself be completely absorbed by the Force.

“I’m one with the Force, the Force is with me.” She whispered repeatedly.

Rex gasped as a cut on Cody’s face began to vanish. Along with other various wounds.

The rest of the group was intensely watching the exterior injuries heal. However, he noted that Tech, who he had expected to be taking notes, wasn't looking at Cody. He was looking at (Y/N) with a look of concern on his face.

Cody’s face went from uncomfortably in pain, to relatively peaceful. (Y/N) was looking considerably paler than earlier.
Hunter had felt (Y/N)‘a heartbeat get faster the more energy she used.

“(Y/N), that’s enough.” He said gently.

She either ignored him, or couldn’t hear him.

Kix went to touch (Y/N)‘s shoulder, but Hunter pulled him back.

“Don’t. She’s meditating, the Force will act at a shield and knock you back!”

“Well what do we do?!” Rex asked, panicking.

“Tech! Help her!” Hunter said worriedly.

“(Y/N)? (Y/N)? Please stop!” Tech desperately called.

(Y/N)’s eyes opened for a split second, her eyes were gray, then they rolled to the back of her eyelids. She sways, and Tech catches her.

“Is she okay?” Rex asked worriedly.

“Does she look okay?” Crosshair sarcastically responded.

Though, Wrecker, Hunter, and Tech could recognize the concern in his voice.

“I’m fine.” (Y/N) said.

Everyone looked down to Tech’s arms and he cradled (Y/N)‘s head in his arms.

“I would not call passing out exactly ‘fine’.” Tech responds in a teasing manner.

“How’s Cody?” (Y/N) groans.

Kix got his medical scanner out and scanned Cody.

“Most of his external and internal injuries are healed.” Kix said in disbelief and amazement.

“Whoa. How come General Skywalker can’t do that?” Jesse asked.

“I’m a bit more involved with the Force and I explore the light and dark.” (Y/N) explains as she sits up.

“So are you a Jedi and a Sith?” Rex asked.

“If I was a Sith, I wouldn’t be here. I’m not a Jedi either. I’m in between. I am the balance… Though I believe I’m referred to as a Gray Jedi.”

Tech got up and offered his hand to (Y/N).
(Y/N) gratefully took it, as she stood up, she leaned on Tech for support, then managed to upright herself.

“Uh, they don’t have a thing going on, do they?” Rex asked Hunter curiously.

Hunter didn’t look too shocked at the question.

“Not that I’m aware of.” He shrugged nonchalantly.

Wrecker elbowed Crosshair, who smirked in response.

“They seem close.” Jesse observed.

“You are aware we can hear you?” Tech interrupted.

“Yes.” Hunter, Wrecker, and Crosshair said simultaneously.

Tech’s face turned a light shade of pink, while (Y/N) averted her gaze.

“Let’s cut the chatter and finish what we started. We’ll do it your way, Captain. For Commander Cody.” (Y/N) promptly turned to Rex.

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It’s morning, and the group of seven now were walking through a small forest. Up ahead, there’s an enemy outpost tower. The group began examining it.

“Not our primary target.” Rex says.

“It’s an outpost. Should we take it?” Hunter countered.

(Y/N) looks at the outpost. Some droids are guarding the entrance.

“Probably easier than going around.” Rex affirmed.

“Okay, what do you suggest, Captain? We could take them out one-by-one?” (Y/N) asked.

“Actually, I was thinking we’d take a page from your book. Rush them head-on.” Rex said.

“I like your style.” (Y/N) grinned.

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“Clones! Get them!” A battle droid yelled.

(Y/N) blocks incoming shots into other enemies’ heads.

“Ah! Jed-“ The droid was cut off as a lightsaber went through his head.

A new wave of droids starts making their way over to group fighting.

“Ooh! Lemme deal with-“ Wrecker yells but is interrupted by (Y/N).

She lifted the droids into the air, then moved them together, crushing themselves against one another.

Wrecker stands there. (Y/N) can feel the shock and disappointment in him seeing (Y/N) destroy so many clankers.

“Aw man!”

The group makes it to the elevator, leaving Wrecker down defending the entrance.

The elevator gets to the top of the tower.

“Hey, you’re not authorize-“

Jesse blasted the droid.

The clones opened fire on the remaining droids.

(Y/N) slices her way through the room without breaking a sweat. She gets to the Tactical Droid and decides to test something out that she’s been working on.

(Y/N) crushes the commando droid with the Force.

(Y/N) looked at the group of clones staring at her.

“When did you learn that?” Hunter asked, surprised.

“I had some downtime at the Temple.” Shrugs (Y/N).

“Kinda dramatic.” Jesse admits.

“You serve under Anakin Skywalker and you think I’m the dramatic one?” (Y/N) said feigning an incredulous look.

“Is it over already? Aw, man!” Wrecker boomed.

The clones take off their helmets as (Y/N) deactivated her lightsaber. She follows Tech over to the console.

“Not bad, for a reg.” Hunter comments.

“All right, there it is. The Cyber Center.” Says Rex.

“It looks like the Cyber Center itself has minimal guards, about 30 droids. Oh.. Wait. Wait! I got a massive signal coming in.” Tech mentions as he types something into the console.

“I sense more droids are being sent.” (Y/N) adds calmly.

“Someone’s noticed our handiwork back at the crash site.” Says Hunter.

“Yeah. Make sure you keep an eye on those incoming Separatist forces. I wanna know when they reach this outpost.” Rex said.

“You got it, Cap.” Tech affirms.

“We’ll have to move swiftly.” (Y/N) tells the group.

“We’ll grab some speeder bikes and flank them from the back.” Hunter suggests.

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“Is everyone in position?” Rex says over the comm.

They had parked their speeder bikes away from the Cyber Center and were watching the Center on an incline.

“Affirmative.” (Y/N) answers.

“Affirmative.” Crosshair (who’s sniping on a cliff) says over the comm.

“Cap, you wanted to know when those Separatist forces breached the outpost.” Tech started.

(Y/N) looked over Tech’s shoulder at his datapad. About two to three dozen battle droids were on their way.

“Karabast.” (Y/N) cursed.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Rex asked, concerned.

“Well, they’re getting there just about now.” Tech continued.

There was some racket in the distance, causing all droids guarding the door to run into battle, indicating it was time to open the door.

(Y/N), Tech, Wrecker, and Hunter hurried to the back door as Tech was unlocking it.

“Hmm. This is a delicate operation.” Tech says to himself.

“Wait. Tech stop.” (Y/N) said softly.

Tech abruptly looked up and paused.

(Y/N) closed her eyes and felt the Force flowing through her. The door slid open.

She opened up her eyes to Tech’s wide eyes.

“Ah, I suppose that’s a faster method.” He admits.

(Y/N) ignites her saber and charges into the building. Blocking shots as she goes along.

“Jedi!” A droid shouts.

“Jedi?”

“Ah! A Jedi!”

The two droids that were conversing were shot by Hunter.

(Y/N), Hunter, Tech, and Wrecker continued fighting their way through the twisting corridors to the center. Tech begins typing into a control panel as (Y/N) parries the blasts coming their way.

“We’re in.” Tech says.

Hunter and Tech open the door a little, before tossing in a grenade, killing some of the droids.
The group goes further into the room, quickly yet skillfully killing the Tactical Droids and Battle Droids.

“Tech, get to work on these computers. We’ll go get the regs.” (Y/N) told the group.

Just in time too, Rex and Jesse were getting backed into the front entrance.

“WHAT THE-“ The droid screams.

(Y/N) concentrates the Force on the large group of droids. Lifting them up in the air, then dropping them. Causing them to destruct.

“What took you so long?” Rex asked.

“Wanted to see how long you could last without us.” (Y/N) replied wittily.

A loud noise is heard in the background. A rather large droid transport is coming towards the group.

“Rex, go. We’ll handle this.” (Y/N) ignites her saber.

“Heh. By ‘we’ she means ‘her’.” Hunter says.

(Y/N) charges to the transport, and lets the Force completely take control over her. She Force-jumps into the air, flipping and landing right in the middle of the transport, taking out the guns and the pilots all in one swift motion.

She lands gracefully on her feet as the transport explodes.

“Show off.” Crosshair says bitterly over the comms.

(Y/N) pauses as she feels a strong sense of disbelief in Rex’s presence.

“Something happened!” She cried.

“We gotta go, now!” Hunter yells.

The group slowly backs into the center, providing cover for each other. They arrive outside the room.

“We’re gone. Rex, let’s go.” Says Hunter urgently.

“CT-1409.” The audio signal says.

“Rex, now!”

“CT-1409.” (Y/N) had just now processed what the computer was saying.

“No… it can’t be.” (Y/N) looks at Rex who has gone pale with shock.

The two make eye contact.

Rex steels himself and puts his helmet on.

The group backs out of the Center, (Y/N) providing as much cover as she could. Unfortunately, there are still more droids outside the exit. But Crosshair was ready with the speeder. The hop on as the sharpshooter drives them away.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

“That’s his number isn’t it?” (Y/N) asked Rex softly.

Rex nodded.

“How, though?” She wonders.

“I don’t know. It doesn’t make sense.” Rex says.

“I do not follow, what does that number mean?” Tech looks at (Y/N), his amber eyes filled with curiosity.

“CT-1409… That was Echo’s number. He’s alive.” Rex answers.

Chapter Text

“Anakin Skywalker, fancy meeting you here.” (Y/N) smiles.

“Master (L/N), it’s good to see you.” Anakin and (Y/N) embrace.

“I’ve heard great things about you and your squad.”

“I’m glad they’re good things. Though I wish the circumstances of our meeting were better.” (Y/N) replies sadly.

“Is it true then?” Anakin asked.

“I’m not sure. Hopefully Rex may be able to tell you more.”

“Word is the general staff isn't completely behind this mission.” Hunter and Rex walk over.

“I admit the idea that Echo is still alive is a long shot.” Rex said.

“I'm sure the Council will approve the mission.” Anakin stated.

“Just remember the primary goal is to learn how the Separatists are predicting our strategy, whether it's Echo behind it or not.” (Y/N) states calmly.

“Well, if you want my opinion, sounds like a trap, but me and the boys will tag along anyway, if only to say ‘I told you so.’” Hunter smirks at (Y/N).

“I’ll make sure to get the ‘go ahead’ from General Kenobi.” (Y/N) said.

“If you're certain he'll approve the mission, why wait?” Rex asked.

“Let’s get going!”

“First, we have that ‘thing’ to do.” Anakin intervenes.

“Uh, what thing?” Rex asks.

“You know.” Anakin looks at Rex.

“We don’t have time for that sir.” Rex answers.

“Yes, we do.” Anakin insists.

“We’ll uh, let you sort this thing out.” Hunter nods his head towards the ship.

“We’ll be waiting on the ship with the rest of the team… Oh and Anakin?” Said (Y/N).

“Yes?”

“Do tell Padmé I said hello and we should get together soon.” (Y/N) grins knowingly at Anakin’s wide eyes.

Rex looks between Anakin and (Y/N), as if asking, ‘she knows?’

She does a half-hearted salute at Anakin before walking away with Hunter.

“So I want to know what that was?” Hunter asks.

“Probably not.” (Y/N) answers.

(Y/N) and Hunter join the rest of The Bad Batch.

“We’re all set.” She tells them.

“You got permission from General Kenobi already?” Tech looked at (Y/N).

“Ah not officially yet, but it’s me and Anakin, how could he say no?”

“I guess that settles it.” The voice of Obi-Wan Kenobi said.

(Y/N) turned around and smiled.

“General Kenobi.” She greets.

“General (L/N).” He smiles.

They hug. (Y/N) can feel eyes on her and Obi-Wan.

“Anakin-“

“Is busy.” (Y/N) says.

“Is he on a call with Senator Amidala?” Obi-Wan questions.

“I don’t know, is he?” (Y/N) plays dumb.

“What am I going to do with him?” Obi-Wan rolls his eyes.

“I’d assume the council granted permission for this mission?” (Y/N) asked seriously.

“I don’t know, maybe you should ask them.” Obi-Wan challenged.

“Aw, you know the council doesn’t like me much.” (Y/N) pouts.

“Master Yoda, and Master Plo Koon do.”

“And you do… right?” (Y/N) joked.

“Depends on the day.” Obi-Wan chuckled.

“I take offense to that statement.” (Y/N) playfully answered.

“In any case, safe travels on your mission (Y/N), may the Force be with you.” Obi-Wan put a hand on (Y/N)‘s shoulder.

“May the Force be with you.” (Y/N) said.

Back with the Bad Batch, Tech looks up from his datapad to see (Y/N) conversing with Obi-Wan happily. A small pang of something coursed through his body that he couldn’t identify.

‘She’s just talking to the General. Why is it bothering me?’

“Tech? You okay?” Hunter asks.

“I am fine Hunter, why do you ask?” Tech replies.

“He’s just noticing you staring at the General. I’ve seen that look before, you’ve got a soft spot for the General don’t you?” Crosshair smirks.

“I assure you, I feel nothing but mutual respect for the General.” Tech blushed furiously.

“Sure… just don’t start writing Love letters in binary code.” Crosshair slaps Tech on the shoulder.

Tech was rendered speechless.

“Aw Tech, we’re just teasing you.” Hunter laughs.

“Ya sure you’re not jealous?” Wrecker yelled.

Crosshair hit Wrecker in the head with his rifle.

“Quiet!”

“Jealousy is an irrational emotion. I’m merely concerned about the potential distraction from our mission.” Tech tries to reason.

“You gonna show General Kenobi who’s smarter, and give him a run for his money?” Hunter asked.

“Ugh! You’re all impossible to convince!” Tech sighs in frustration.

“That they are.” (Y/N) walked back over to the group.

“What are they giving you a hard time about now?” She laughs.

“Nothing of importance.” Tech answered quickly.

The Bad Batch looked at Tech with a grin on their faces.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

The group was on the Marauder heading to Shako Minor.

Tech was piloting the ship, Wrecker was weight-lifting Gonky, Hunter was looking at a screen, Anakin was examining Crosshair’s Firepuncher under his heavy gaze.

(Y/N) was up in the Cockpit with Tech, while he rambled about the history of Skako Minor. (Y/N) listens intently.

“So, how many missions has your team been on, General?” Anakin called.

“We stopped counting at 200.” Said (Y/N).

“All the action sort of blurs together.” Hunter adds.

“I know you work with Cody sometimes, but who do you guys report to?” Anakin asks.

“Not really anyone.” (Y/N) answers.

The ship shakes violently.

“We are approaching Skako Minor.” Tech informs.

(Y/N) looked at the planet, its dim yellow-tan hue palette very visible.

“It looks to be a difficult landing.”

The group runs to a seat to stay secure.

(Y/N) takes the copilot’s seat next to Tech. Pushing some buttons to try and stabilize the ship.

They could see lightning and dust mixing together, making it extremely hard to see anything. Bumps were very much present when trying to find a spot to land. Tech found a flatter area to land the ship. However, no one could see anything besides the yellow dust blowing everywhere.

“Rex, what do we know about this place?” Anakin turns to his Captain.

“On this part of Skako, there's a race of locals, the Poletecs. All we know is they're very primitive.” Rex tells them.

“‘Primitive’ is being kind. My intel says the Poletecs worship flying reptiles.”

There’s a thud on top of the Marauder.

Then a rather loud screech as a huge flying creature lands on the windshield of the ship. With a rider on its back. Startling everyone.

“Oh! What the heck was that?!” Wrecker yelled as he looked out the window.

“It’s one of those reptiles.” Tech says.

“I want that thing off my ship!” Hunter yells as the group hurries to get the creature off.

“Hold on! Hold on! Don't just run out there.” Rex tried to say.

The Bad Batch didn’t listen, as (Y/N) and Anakin follow them.

They run down the ship’s bridge.

“Hey! Get off of there!” Wrecker yells as he points his blaster at the creature.

“Wait! Don’t shoot! We need to talk to them!” (Y/N) says.

“Why?”

“She’s right!” Says Hunter.

Two more creatures with riders on top swoop in to attack. (Y/N) just barely rolls under. She ignites her saber in defense.

The creature dives for Rex.

“Rex! Look out!” (Y/N) yelled.

She pushed Rex out of the way, then the creature grabbed (Y/N)’s right shoulder, causing her to drop her lightsaber. She was pulled up into the air. Never did the Bad Batch think they’d hear their General scream, but she did.

Tech picked up (Y/N)‘s lightsaber quickly. As the rest of the Batch fired at the creature.

“I have a thermal reading!” Tech tried to keep his voice neutral, containing the fear he felt for the General’s safety.

“Point-two-five east, elevation 175.” Tech informed.

“Relax Tech, your girlfriend will be fine. I’ll handle this” Crosshair said as he prepared his rifle.

Crosshair placed his rifle on Tech’s shoulder to steady his aim.

He shot a tripwire at the creature. A direct hit. He hands the end of the wire to Hunter.

“What are you doing?” Rex asked, slightly panicked.

“Going for a ride.” Hunter answers calmly as he attached the hook to his armor.

He’s pulled up into the air by the wire and pulled the distance.

“Is everyone just going to ignore what Crosshair just said?!” Anakin looks at Tech.

Tech couldn’t bring himself to look back at the General.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Hunter struggled to stay with the creature. He could see (Y/N) dangling by her arm as the creature gripped it. He shot at the rider, who decided to keep swerving to try and get Hunter to let go. He wouldn’t budge. Suddenly the rider jerked forward so quick, Hunter dropped his blaster due to the amount of force.

‘Guess I’m going for a longer ride.’

The creature came up to a rocky mountainside. The creature steers in different directions in an attempt to get him killed. However, Hunter was just skilled enough to avoid the points.
They were coming up on a cliff, and if Hunter didn’t make a decision soon, he’d be skewered at the point of the cliff. Hunter detached himself from the cable and landed roughly on the rocky cliff. Rolling to the edge of the cliff. He looks over and sees (Y/N) pinned to the ground underneath the creature that took her. Along with being surrounded by Poletecs.

“Tech, I'm with the General. Hone in on my signal.” Hunter instructed through his comm.

Down below, (Y/N) was listening to all the growls and whatever language the locals were speaking.

“Uhm, there might be a slight communication error on my part.” Said (Y/N) meekly.

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Tech landed the Marauder. And the clones ran out to Hunter.

“That creature still has a hold of the General.” Hunter states.

“We're going in, but remember what the General said, ‘No casualties, disarm only.’” Rex told them.

“We’re on it Captain. Wrecker, Crosshair! Rockslide!” Hunter commanded.

Wrecker gets behind a boulder and pushes it. The boulder slides down the mountain. Causing a ruckus and cover for the clones. They each slid down the mountain carefully. Once they reach the bottom, they begin firing at the locals’ weapons, knocking them out of their hands.
Crosshair looks through his scope and sees (Y/N) still struggling to get out from underneath the creature. He aimed a dart at the creature’s leg, and it hit his target. Making the creature lift its claw up. (Y/N) rolled out from underneath it. However, once she was out of the way of the creature, the boulder came straight at her. She had to roll herself away from that as well.

She picked herself up off the ground. She found the clones and Anakin cornering the Poletecs. The leader started saying something frantically in another language.

“Tech, translate what he’s saying.” Said (Y/N).

Tech slides down his visor over his goggled helmet.

“He says he does not want our war on his planet. That is why he took our leader.” Tech looked at the group.

“We didn’t bring the war here.” Said (Y/N).

“It was Wat Tambor and the Separatists.” Anakin added.

Tech speaks in the Poletecs’ language. Ending on the word ‘Separatist’.

“Tell him we apologize for what's happened. But tell him the enemy is holding one of our men prisoner in Purkoll. As soon as we rescue him, we'll leave his planet, for good.” Rex said.

Tech speaks in the alien’s language. The chief walks up close to Tech then said something to the locals. They whispered among themselves.

The chief looked back and started speaking.

“The chief says he will provide us with scouts and lead us to Tambor's city. From there, we're on our own.” Tech translates.

“Any help is better than no help.” Anakin shrugs.

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“I believe this is yours.” Tech hands (Y/N) her lightsaber.

“Oh! Thanks Tech.” (Y/N) nods her head.

“Are you alright? That Keeradak has massive claws that are used for hunting and strangling their prey. Poachers don’t normally get to see one up close before being devoured.” Tech rambled.

“I’m okay Tech, just wasn’t expecting to be grabbed by a giant reptilian bird thing.” (Y/N) grins.

“Ah, I see how that is not exactly expected.” Tech said with a twinge of embarrassment.

(Y/N) looked like she was going to reply, then Anakin came over to them and told them it was time to go.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

The group hiked to the top of a mountainside cliff. The Poletecs that brought them there pointed to a building in the distance. (Y/N) had Tech thank them before they left.

“Hope nobody’s scared of heights.” Anakin comments.

(Y/N), Hunter, Tech and Crosshair turned to look at Wrecker simultaneously.

“Well, I'm not scared of nothing. I just... When I'm up real high, I got a problem with gravity.” Wrecker stammers.

“Speaking of problems, I am no longer picking up Echo's signal.” Tech says to the team.

“I... I don't understand. You said it was coming from this city.” Rex points.

(Y/N) can sense the annoyance and urgency from Rex.

“I can only speculate, but it is possible there's a latency issue with the frequency caused by all these atmospheric disturbances.” Tech looks at Rex.

“Or... maybe they sent the signal to lure us into a trap. And maybe your friend's actually dead. Well, I can't be the only one thinking of that.” Hunter suggests.

“Look, every mission could be a trap. This one is no different. I'm telling you that signal is being sent by Echo himself! He's alive!” Rex argues.

“I think you're letting your personal feelings get in the way because you left him for dead at the Citadel.” Crosshair sneers.

“Crosshair…” (Y/N) warns.

“I had no choice. You hear me?” Rex desperately says.

“Oh, I don't blame you. I would've left him for dead too. Besides, he's just another reg.” Crosshair turns around and starts walking down the mountain.

(Y/N) already sensed what was coming, Rex punched Crosshair once, startling the sniper. Then again, knocking Cross down on his back.

Wrecker grabs Rex by the top of his blue armor.

“Hey! Why don't you pick on someone not your size?” He threatened.

Wrecker threw Rex off to the side. Once Rex regained his footing, he marched right back up to Wrecker, trying to make himself larger.

“You'll be a whole lot smaller when I'm through with you.” Rex threatens back.

“That’s enough!” (Y/N) used the Force and lightly pushed Wrecker and Rex apart.

“Hunter, take the boys with you and scout for a tower entrance.” (Y/N) dismissed.

Hunter motioned to his squad to follow him.

Once the Bad Batch was out of range, Anakin looked at his Captain.

“Rex, I hate to say it, but... you have to prepare yourself for the possibility that Echo is dead, and this is all a Separatist trick.”

“Sir, I have watched so many of my brothers fall during this war, and I try not to hang on to any one of them. But that changed when I heard that Separatist transmission. It was no algorithm. That was Echo's voice. I know it.” Rex sighed.

“Rex, I will not apologize for my squad’s actions, but you must understand that the way Crosshair is treating you, is the way we as outcasts were treated.”

“W-what do you mean?” Rex asked with wide eyes.

“As an experimental squad, they were deemed as ‘freaks’ and ‘defective’, their entire lives, they were treated that way. They would never hear the end of it. For that, they choose not to trust any reg.” (Y/N) explained solemnly.

Rex’s eyes were wide with shock and confusion.

“If they’ve learned one thing, it’s that every single reg is exactly the same.”

“I-I had no idea.” Rex stuttered.

“I can sense the truth in your statement Captain, however, I too… find it hard to believe.” (Y/N) admits.

“With all due respect General, you say ‘we’ as if you were included…?” Rex asked.

(Y/N) could feel Anakin looking at her.

“That is correct Captain. When I was younger, I gained copious amounts of attention from other younglings due to my outer appearance. I found it very hard to make friends, until I met General Kenobi.” (Y/N) said.

“I- I’m sorry.” Rex made eye contact.

“I know you think it’s Echo, But if, for some reason, you're wrong…” (Y/N) trailed off.

“Then I’ll deal with it.” Rex says firmly.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

As Tech traced Echo’s signal and opened the door, The Bad Batch kept watch trying to see through the sandstorm.

“We're in business, General. Tech regained Echo's signal. It's coming from this tower. How's it going, Tech?” Hunter asked.

(Y/N) observed Tech furiously typing on the door’s control panel.

The door opened with a clunk noise.

Tech got off his knees and turned to (Y/N) and Anakin.

“Sorry it took so long.”

“Hey Cross, check it out.” (Y/N) said.

Crosshair raises his Firepuncher and looks around as he goes through the door.

“Yeah, it’s a lift.” Crosshair says.

“Well, we already knew that.” Tech sarcastically responds.

“Wait, wait, wait. A lift? How far up are we going?” Wrecker panics.

“Don't worry, Wrecker. I'll hold your hand.” Hunter teases.

“Hey! Cut it out, Sarge. Just give me some droids to crush.” Wrecker bumps Hunter’s shoulder, urging the Sargeant to go forward.

“Stealth, Wrecker.” (Y/N) reminds.

“No blasting, no blowing things up. Nobody knows we're here.” Anakin adds.

The lift comes to a halt. The doors slide open and a couple of battle droids are walking around.

As soon as those doors open, (Y/N) knows her instructions will immediately go out the window in Wrecker’s mind.

Sure enough, Wrecker lets out a battle cry and charges at the battle droids.

“Intruders! Attack!”

He starts smashing the droids, throwing them into each other, and blasting them. He even threw some off the docking pad.

(Y/N) can feel the slight annoyance from the rest of the group as the Bad Batch joins the gunfight.

“So much for stealth.” Rex sighs.

Anakin looks at (Y/N). Who has her hands brought up to her face in a face palm.

Wrecker and the Bad Batch finished killing off the droids.

“Yeah! Hah! Ha-ha! Yeah!” Wrecker yells happily.

He turns to see Anakin and Rec staring at him in disbelief, and (Y/N) shaking her head.

“Uh... sorry. I just got excited.” Wrecker says meekly.

“I’ve still got a lock on Echo’s signal.” Tech informs.

“Okay boys, let's hunt some droids.” Says (Y/N).

“Now you're talking! Yeah!” Wrecker shouts excitedly.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

The group comes up into the corridor, hiding behind the corner from the droids. Hunter signals to Rex, and they shoot down the droids in the corridor.

Anakin and (Y/N) walk out.

“Tech, where exactly is the signal coming from?” (Y/N) turns to him.

“Strange. I just lost the signal.” Tech said.

“What? How can that be? There's no ‘atmospheric disturbances’ up here.” Rex takes off his helmet.

“Well, I have a new theory. I'm surprised I did not consider it earlier. The signal is only traceable during data transmissions. So until Echo dispenses more intel, I cannot pick up the signal.” Tech explains.

“Okay, we're splitting up. Search every door.” Anakin instructs.

“If someone finds Echo, contact the others. We go in together, just in case there's trouble.” (Y/N) adds.

Anakin runs in one direction with Crosshair, (Y/N) runs in the other with Rex, Tech, Hunter, and Wrecker.

The group comes up on a couple of doors. Each of them runs to a separate door. Opening them to check for Echo.

(Y/N) stops at her tracks.

Tech and Hunter stop with her, looking at her, trusting her Force abilities.

“Wait. I can feel something-“

“Is it him?!” Rex interrupted.

(Y/N) closes her eyes and reaches out further to the presence.

“I think so, but- his mind is clouded.”

“Ah! It appears the signal is back. It's from up ahead.” Tech says.

The group rounds the corner to a large blast door.

“In there.” (Y/N) points.

Rex examines the door before turning to Tech.

“Tech, open this door.” He says.

There’s a slight buzzing noise coming from a screen off to the side of the group.

“You clones are so predictable.”

(Y/N) gently pushes Rex so she can talk to this guy.

“Wat Tambor.” (Y/N) says calmly.

“Your algorithm predicted nearly every move you made to infiltrate Purkoll.” Tambor replies from the screen.

“There is no algorithm! We know you're holding a prisoner of war here!” Rex tells him aggressively.

“Rex…” (Y/N) holds a hand up to stop him from coming closer to the hologram.

“Prisoner? I don't know what you mean, Captain.”

“I am leaving here with my friend.” Rex points.

“Your friend is dead. His mind is ours.” Tambor tells the group.

“Liar.” Rex sneers.

“Execute them.” Tambor orders.

A small battalion of droids came up on the group. (Y/N) ignited her lightsaber in a defensive stance. Hunter throws a vibro knife, knocking down a droid.

Anakin and Crosshair join the fight.

(Y/N) cuts down the droids coming at her and the squad. But more and more just keep coming.

“Tech! Open that door for Rex!” (Y/N) yells over the chaos.

Tech nodded firmly before getting to work.

“I hope you find what you're looking for, Captain.” Hunter tells Rex.

(Y/N) backed up towards the door, just as Tech gets it open.

Rex, Tech, and (Y/N) head down the hallway into a room. Rex‘s blasters and (Y/N)‘s lightsaber at the ready.

There was a control panel in the middle, along with two electrical circuits to the sides.

“I don't like the look of this.” Rex says uneasily.

There appeared to be a stasis chamber on the wall.

“He’s in there.” (Y/N) told the other two.

“It seems to be a stasis chamber. I think I can get it open.” Tech said as he poured over the control panel.

“Rex, I must warn you, he may be confused or unwell when we release him.” (Y/N) tells the captain.

Rex nodded at (Y/N)‘s warning.

A beeping noise was heard, then the stasis chamber opened. (Y/N) could see the silhouette of something as it fell forward. She suppressed her gasp and put her hands over her mouth when she saw the clone, or what’s left of him hanging out.
She could feel the shock and disbelief in the air from both Rex and Tech.

“Echo! Tech!” Rex gasped as he climbed up to the hanging clone.

“We gotta get him out of here!” Rex urged as he brought Echo down from hanging.

“Tech, how much time do we have?” (Y/N) asked as she kneels beside Echo and Rex.

“Not enough.”

“What have they done to you?” Rex shakes his head in disbelief.

“We- We have to get to the shuttle to escape the Citadel…No! I’ll go first-” Echo feverishly mumbles.

“Echo!” Rex said desperately.

“No! No. No.” Echo mumbled again.

“Echo, it’s Rex. I’m here.” Cried Rex.

“No.”

Chapter Text

“Situation’s almost under control out there. How’s it going in here?” Anakin runs into the room.

“I'm still trying to decrypt Echo's cerebral interface. Until I do, we cannot disconnect him from this computer system.” Tech answers.

“How is he?” Anakin asks.

“He’s too weak to walk.” Rex says.

“Very disoriented. Doesn't even remember how he got here. He remembers being at the Citadel, but that's about it. I’ve used the Force to have him relax a bit, but he needs to get out of here.” (Y/N) tells Anakin.

“Any word on the extraction squad?” Anakin asks.

“We called it in, but no word back.”

“Typical.” (Y/N) mutters.

“We knew when we got into this we'd be on our own.” Anakin said.

The blaster fire intensified as Hunter, Crosshair, and Wrecker were backed into the room. Cross using his elbow to smash the door control.

“It's gonna get more difficult to get out of here. There are several squads of droids closing in.” Says Hunter.

As the door closed, a battle droid stuck its head through the slit of the door, Wrecker ripped its head from its body. The door closed and The Bad Batch started wielding the door shut.

Crosshair put down his sniper scope over his eye.

“Enemy approaching. Droids... lots of 'em.” He said.

“How long can you hold them off?” Anakin asked Hunter.

“How long do you need?” Hunter looked up from his tool.

“Tech, how much longer?” (Y/N) called from Echo’s form.

“Not yet. I need more time.” He responds glancing up at (Y/N) as his fingers dance across the keyboard.

It was strange, Tech never looked up at someone while at work.

As Hunter hurried to finish wielding, something was cracking the door open. The Bad Batch gave up on this door and moved to the next. Smashing the control and beginning to wield this one shut.

“I've got it. We can unplug him now.” Tech takes off his helmet.

(Y/N) gets up and lets Rex unplug Echo.

Rex unplugs the first cord, looking painful to Echo. Then the next one. Echo starts making a pained noise, then the third one, Echo collapses with a grunt.

“Rex?” He pants.

“Yes?” Rex kneeled beside his friend.

Echo coughed.

“I got a big headache.” Echo answered with a cheeky grin.

“Better to feel something than nothing, old Buddy.” Rex smiled.

“It’s a touching reunion guys, but we need to get out of here now!” Anakin said.

“There’s an exhaust vent that leads to the cooling systems right there.” Echo points.

“They’ve breached the front door. It won’t be long before they’re through the second!” Hunter yelled.

“That should get it open.” Echo said as he put his socket-arm into the computer controls.

A hatch in the middle of the ceiling opened.

“Great. Now how do we get up there?” Crosshair asked.

“Oh I can help with that.” Wrecker said as he pushed Hunter towards the hatch in the ceiling.

“Wait-what? Wrecker what are you doing-!” Hunter tried to protest as he was flung by Wrecker up into the hatch.

Hunger managed to just catch the sides, stopping him from falling back down.

“A heads-up would’ve been nice!” He yelled at Wrecker.

“Oh, but where’s the fun in that Sarge?” (Y/N) said as she turned her attention to the noise at the door.

One-by-one each clone was thrown up into the hatch by Wrecker in a matter of seconds. Climbing upward away from the stasis chamber. It seemed like Wrecker was having way too much fun with this.

Wrecker was going to go for Anakin and (Y/N) next, but (Y/N) stopped him.

“It’s okay Wreck, we’ve got this.” (Y/N) said as Anakin Force-Jumped into the hatch.

(Y/N) did the same once Anakin had moved up a bit, her graceful movements making no noise.

Wrecker ran to the other end of the chamber.

“What are you doing?!” (Y/N) called.

“I’m putting an end to Tambor’s little science experiment!” Wrecker responded.

He threw detonators around the room, then sticking to the surfaces.

“Wrecker! Time's up!” (Y/N) yelled.

A little droid of some sort broke into the room, sending out purple electrical sparks everywhere.

(Y/N) had little time to think, so she closed her eyes and focused her energy on Wrecker. The Force lifting Wrecker in the air.

“Woah! Woah! Oh no! What is that thing?!” Wrecker yelled in fear.

(Y/N) peeked her eyes open, full of concentration. Anakin looked at (Y/N), feeling the unusually massive amount of Force around her.

“I don’t like it! I don’t like it! It’s trying to get me- WOAH!!” Wrecker yelped as he went through the hatch.

Anakin used the Force to close the hatch in a swift motion.

(Y/N) sighed in relief. The group continued their climb up the shaft, before heading into the ventilation corridor.

Tech and (Y/N) walked side by side as Tech curiously began talking.

“Huh. This ventilation corridor acts as a cooling system for all the computers in the facility.” He said aloud.

“Echo, how did you know this was all up here?” (Y/N) glanced at Echo behind her.

“Well, they got access to my memory, and I got access to the Techno Union database. All their plans, inventory, building schematics… everything.” Echo looked at (Y/N) while leaning on Rex.

“And… General?” Echo continued.

“Yes, Echo?”

“It’s really great to see you.” Echo smiles awkwardly.

(Y/N) smiled warmly back.

“It’s really great to see you too, Echo. Do you think you could find a safe way out of here?” (Y/N) asked.

“Well, there is a way, but you’re not gonna like it.”

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

The shield door opened to reveal the extremely high up building with a single pole in the middle. Wind blew all around (Y/N)’s (H/L) (H/C), ruffling it a bit.

The group looked at the scene with wide eyes.

“I don’t know about this!” Rex said over the loud wind.

“I’m telling you, there’s a landing pad on that other building!” Echo pointed to the other side.

“Do you think there’s a ship we can steal?” (Y/N) asked.

“Well, I hope there’s a ship we can steal.” Echo replied.

“Let’s hope this trip isn’t for nothing.” Hunter said.

The group knew they were short of time, so they started the inevitable, tedious, process of walking across the pipe. (Y/N) was on the tail end, perfectly balanced as if she was in her own kingdom of Mirkwood. Her elvish abilities giving her an advantage over the others.

“Oh boy! I can’t even look. Just keep walking Tech.” Wrecker groaned nervously.

“That’s fine. But if you fall, don’t take me with you.” Tech replied.

“Uh-oh! I looked. Ahhh! I think I’m gonna be sick! Not gonna panic.” Wrecker groaned.

“We’re almost there Wrecker. Breathe.” (Y/N) says to Wrecker behind him.

“Turn around! Go back!” Anakin yells and ignites his lightsaber.

(Y/N) turns around only to find droids cramming the doorway back to the building. She ignites her white lightsaber and deflects some blaster fire back towards the droids. But it’s no use.

They’re trapped.

Droids begin marching onto the thin pipe the group are on towards them. Tech starts shooting at the droids while (Y/N) blocks.

“Woah! Wh- whoah!”

Crosshair’s balance falters as he attempts to swing his arms to grab something. He falls backwards towards the ground. Wrecker quickly grabs Cross’ leg, holding onto a weather vane to keep himself and Crosshair from falling to their deaths.

“Oh boy. Gotcha!” Wrecker says.

“Anybody got a brilliant idea?!” Anakin asked.

“I do have a brilliant idea!” Tech yelled.

“I’m hanging here!” Wrecker yells from below.

“When the locals attacked us, I recorded the creatures’ distress call!” Tech said as he put his visor down searching for something.

“He records everything. It’s a hobby!” Hunter snaps.

“More like an obsession!” (Y/N) replies as she blocks more incoming fire.

“Which allows us to call those flying creatures to us!” Tech pushed a button.

The most gut-wrenching, painful screech came through. Each person covered their ears. (Y/N) turned her saber off as her ears felt like they were going to explode. Her sensitive ears made the screeching more painful than anything.

She could feel blood trickling from her ears down the sides of her neck.

“Tech!” Hunter pointed (Y/N)’s ears.

Tech turned off the sound and turned his attention to his General.

She looked at him with her (E/C) eyes.

“I’m okay!” She yelled.

Tech didn’t look convinced but pointed downwards.

“There is our ride out of here!”

The creatures were flying upward towards the group.

“Now, how do we get on them?!” Anakin asked.

“How else? We jump!” Tech replied casually.

The group looked at Tech like he’d grown three heads.

“You heard him! Let’s do this!” (Y/N) said.

“Alright, I’ll go first!” Anakin said unsurely.

He jumped from the pipe, landing on the back of the already in motion creature. Next, Echo and Rex went, landing on the same one.

“I don’t wanna do this, but here I go!” Wrecker yelled nervously as he let go of the weather vane.

Him and Crosshair dropped, with Cross landing perfectly fine on the back of the flying creature, while Wrecker struggled around the front of the creature, trying to find a secure spot to be.

Hunter went next without hesitation, landing without a problem.

Tech went after, landing on his own Keeradak. (Y/N) followed. She landed right behind Tech, grabbing his waist to steady herself. (Y/N) thought it was the adrenaline or the aching worry in her heart that made her feel Tech’s strong emotions. His heart rate went up, and his cheeks inflamed.

(Y/N) looked behind her only to see battle droids with wings flying after the group.

Hunter saw the same thing.

“They fly now?!” He yelled.

“They fly now.” (Y/N) confirmed.

She ignited her lightsaber and turned around, keeping one arm around Tech, blocking the incoming fire.

“We have to shake those droids! How do I steer this thing?!” Anakin yells as he blocks more incoming fire from the droids.

“How are you holding up Echo?” Rex asked the rescued clone.

“Never better sir!” Echo chuckles.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

The group flew into the village on the Keeradaks, landing in front of their leader. Tech’s cheeks were considerably warmer than when he last checked. He felt a fluttering sensation in the pit of his stomach. He hopped down from the creature, reaching out his hand in a gentlemanly manner to help (Y/N) down. She smiled at him brightly before taking his hand, and letting him help her down.

“Your ears!” Tech made a noise of concern.

“Tech, it’s okay!”

“But-but the bleeding-“

“Tech, I’m okay, we’ll do this later.” (Y/N) put a comforting hand on the clone’s shoulder.

The noises of the Poletecs drew (Y/N)‘s attention elsewhere. When she started walking towards the leader, Crosshair elbowed Tech with an irritating smirk on his face. Tech rolled his eyes at his brother's antics.

“Tech, translation.” (Y/N) instructed.

Tech walked up to General Skywalker and (Y/N). His visor down.

The leader spoke to the group.

“Their leader is impressed we tamed the Keeradaks. But he wants to know why we returned here.” Tech turned to (Y/N).

“Tell him we had no choice. Tell him… that we wore out our welcome here on Purkoll.” Anakin said solemnly.

Tech begins to speak in the language to the leader, but-

“Wait!” The aliens and the group turn towards (Y/N), concerned.

(Y/N)‘s ears twitched.

“They’re-“

Blaster fire rained down on the group. Causing them to duck their heads.

(Y/N) blocked fire heading towards the Poletecs, as the group fired their blasters at the flying droids. Most of them getting hit, but a couple escaping.

“Traako.” (Y/N) cursed in Elven.

“Not good.” Tech commented.

“If I know Tambor, he’ll come after us, us and the Poletecs, with everything he’s got.” Anakin stated.

(Y/N) could feel the anger directed at the group from the Poletec leader as it spoke aggressively.

“What’s he saying, Tech?” Anakin asked.

“He says that we have broken our word. We have brought war to his village.”

Rex moves in front of Tech and Anakin and takes off his helmet.

“You’re right. Tell him he’s right, Tech. Tell him we didn’t plan to drag his people into war. But look what the Separatists did to one of our people!” Rex points to Echo as he comes forward.

The Poletecs recoil in shock.

“They took away his freedom, his humanity!” Rex continued.

Tech translated his words into the other language.

“They tried to turn him into a machine. The Techno Union claims it’s neutral, but they have chosen sides. Now your people have to choose.” Rex finished.

(Y/N) grinned.

“Couldn’t have said it better, Rex.”

“Ugh. Let’s hope it works, because I see forces incoming. More than we can handle alone” Crosshair tells the group.

A Poletec comes over to the leader and says something.

The leader tells the group of his fellow men something.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

(Y/N) takes a cloth and dabs the inside of her right ear. Cleaning out the dried blood that stuck to her ears, neck, and some of her hair. Almost reaching her necklace.

Tech came over to the General and sat down beside her.

He took the cloth gently from (Y/N) as she stared at him in confusion.

“May I proceed?” He asked cautiously.

(Y/N) nodded, dumbfounded. Normally she’d be the one tending to her own injuries, despite Tech always insisting that he should tend to her wounds, with him being the team medic after all.

“I apologize for playing to the creatures’ call. I did not think about the consequences of screeching with your sensitive ears.” Tech said.

“It’s okay Tech, I wouldn’t be a General if I couldn’t handle a little noise.” (Y/N) grinned.

“I suppose that’s true.” Tech answered as he finished wiping the left ear.

Tech’s hands were very steady yet gentle. It was almost comforting. It made sense though, he’s a medic.

The glow of (Y/N)’s Elven necklace was visible through her dark robes.

“I’ve never seen your necklace glow so bright.” Tech observed.

“It happens occasionally. I’m not sure why though. It’s almost like it senses something, or has a mind of its own.” (Y/N) looked at Tech.

“Having a mind of its own would be physically impossible as it’s an inanimate object.” Tech suggested.

(Y/N) got up.

“Yeah, I suppose so.” She shrugged and took the cloth and walked away.

Crosshair chuckled in the background. Tech turned his attention to his snarky brother who was reloading his rifle.

“Now you blew it.” He said calmly.

“I do not understand.” Tech cocked his head questioningly.

“Of course you don’t... You know, for someone who was genetically programmed to be smart, you’re sure an idiot.” Crosshair smirked.

There was an awkward pause.

“Either you make a move, or I will.” Crosshair said before turning away.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

(Y/N), Rex, Anakin, and Echo were on top of a cliff, watching as battle droids flew into the village.

(Y/N) made a gesture to Wrecker, signaling to him that it was time to strike. Wrecker nodded his head to his General. He went behind a boulder, as the Poletecs watched and readied their attacks. Wrecker pushed the boulder, causing it to fall down the hill and crush multiple droids on the way there.

The Poletec let out a battle cry, and his warriors charged into battle.

They threw stones, and hit droids with spears they had made. It wasn’t long before the Bad Batch joined the fight head on. Wrecker, using his brute strength and blaster to take down as many droids as he could. Hunter, using his vibro blade to take down three droids at once. Tech, using his own gadgets he’d designed along with his blasters. Crosshair, sniping from afar.

(Y/N) using her Force abilities along with her Elven athleticism to take down as many droids as she could.

She picked up a whirring noise behind her. And turned around just in time to see an Octuptarra droid behind her, firing huge shots at the village. Its powerful blasts killing many creatures and destroying the land around it.

“Go! Go, go, go!” She yelled to her squad.

The Bad Batch along with the Poletecs ran ahead of her, away from the large droid. They dodged large blasts from it, just as they found cover, the same whirring was heard behind the group. They turned to see another Octuptarra droid behind them. They were cornered.

Tech ran off, dodging multiple blasts from droids, placing a small detonator around another wave of droids coming in their direction. Pushing a button, a wave of electrical currents were released, disabling multiple droids.

“We have to take these walkers out! I’ll take this one, Anakin, worry about the other one!” (Y/N) said over the comm.

“Copy that!” Anakin answered.

“Hunter, Wrecker, cover me!” (Y/N) yelled.

The two began firing at the droids blasting in their direction, drawing attention away from (Y/N).

(Y/N) charged at the huge droid firing at the group. Using the Force to move the blasts a little so they’re less likely to hit her.

Using her Elven grace and the Force, she jumped up the Octuptarra’s mechanical legs, and onto its front blaster. She swiftly cut off the end of the blaster cannon, then stabbed the eye. She jumped to the next one, slicing the blaster cannon off once again, then stabbed the yellowish eye. Once more, she repeated this process. Then she Force jumped on top of the droid’s head, and sliced her saber through the middle. Gracefully back flipping off the massive droid, landing on her knees as the droid crumbled, falling over into the dirt.

“You never miss an opportunity to show off, do you, General?” Echo mused over the comms.

“Are you kidding? Anakin’s the one who shows off, have you seen him?!” (Y/N) smiled.

(Y/N)‘s smile quickly faded as she spotted Wrecker holding up the leg of the Octuptarra. She could see Wrecker struggling even with his massive strength. So (Y/N) did the one thing she could think of, she Force pushed with all her might, forcing the huge droid to fall over, relieving any weight Wrecker had struggled to keep up.

She watches as the battle droids retreat from battle. It was over, they had won.

(Y/N) ran over to her friends to make sure they’re okay. She listened to the victory cries of the Poletecs.

Hunter took off his helmet and bluntly stated,

“It’s hard to compete with you Jedi.”

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

“Thank you for helping us in our fight.” (Y/N) spoke kindly.

Tech translated it to the leader. The leader said something in return.

“He said the Jedi will always have an ally here on Skako Minor.” Tech said.

The Poletecs turned away, and walked in the direction of their home. One by one, Anakin, and The Bad Batch walked back into the Marauder, (Y/N) going last as she heard Rex and Echo talking.

“Rex, thanks for coming after me.” Echo said.

“That’s what brothers do. I’m just sorry it took so long. Hopefully, it’s gonna be just like old times.” Rex turned to the Marauder.

“Yeah… just like old times.” Echo trailed off.

Chapter Text

Anakin accompanied by his captain, Rex, (Y/N) accompanied by her Sargent, Hunter, and Obi-Wan have a briefing with Mace Windu about the upcoming battle.

“We have more than a dozen active battlefronts on Anaxes, and we are losing nearly every one.” Master Windu pushed a button displaying a hologram of the planet in front of them.

“But if Admiral Trench can no longer anticipate our moves, we now have the opportunity to retake the planet.”

“I can improve your chances.” A voice firmly spoke from behind the group.

Echo came in with a medical droid behind him. He was looking better, he now had armor, and his complexion wasn’t as pale as when they had found him in the stasis chamber. His armor made (Y/N) forcefully hide her grin and pride. It wasn’t much, but the insignia of The Bad Batch was on his left side of the armor chest piece.

“Eh, excuse me Generals.” Rex said to the Jedi.

Rex walked over to Echo and put a hand on his shoulder.

“Echo, I’m sorry, but I just don’t think you’re ready for battle yet.”

“I am not a liability, Rex. I’m the best chance we have to take back Anaxes.” Echo insists.

“If the trooper has a plan, I’d like to hear it.” Master Windu spoke up.

There was an ongoing dispute between Master Windu and (Y/N). (Y/N) holds a dislike for Windu’s controversial views on clones being expendable. His belief that clones are mere tools in the war clashes with (Y/N)‘s principles of valuing all life and treating individuals with respect. (Y/N) sees the clones as sentient beings deserving of empathy. While Windu’s disregard for clones deeply troubles her. But that’s not the only thing she dislikes about the Jedi Master.

Her dislike is also fueled by his mistreatment towards her friends and Anakin Skywalker himself. (Y/N) and Anakin had developed a bond that was like sister and brother. (Y/N) had given advice both to Obi-Wan and Ani when they were troubled about each other. She watched Ani grow up into a brilliant young man, and she herself had witnessed her best friend Padmè and Anakin’s beautiful wedding. Windu’s dismissive attitude towards Anakin and her friends created an environment full of tension and unease.

(Y/N) believes in fostering positive relationships within the Jedi Order, and found Master Windu’s behavior to be counterproductive to the unity of the Jedi. She witnessed the toll Windu’s behavior took on her friends. She finds that Master Windu’s actions seem to lack the compassion and understanding every Jedi should have. But (Y/N) had elected to keep those feelings to herself for the sake of the Republic.

“May I?” Echo asked as Rex let go of his shoulder.

Echo wakes forward and uses his socket-arm.

“While Master Windu leads a team to retake the assembly complex, The Bad Batch will escort me into Trench’s new comm vault, according to current intel,”

A hologram of a Separatist Dreadnought appeared.

“…is now located on this Separatist Dreadnought above Anaxes. Once I’m plugged in, I can feed Trench strategies, but this time, you’ll know every move before he makes it.”

Echo turns off the hologram while (Y/N) looks at Anakin, both have a face of pride on them.

“And you are certain that if we get you onboard that ship, that you can convince Trench’s army to do what you want?” Master Windu questioned.

“Absolutely… Unfortunately I’ve been doing this for a while, but this time, I can help bring about a Republic Victory instead of a defeat.” Echo said firmly.

The three Jedi Masters looked at each before nodding in agreement.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

“Is everything ready, Tech?” (Y/N), Hunter, and Rex walked up to the Marauder.

“Yup General. We are ready.” He answered.

“I still do not know how we are going to land on that ship.” Tech continued.

“Don’t worry, Echo says he’s got a plan.” Rex said as he put his hand on Tech’s shoulder.

“That makes me feel so much better.”

“What do you mean by that?” (Y/N) cocked her head to the side.

“To be blunt, his mind belonged to the Separatists until we unplugged him, we don’t really know where his loyalties lie.” Tech turned to (Y/N).

Rex seemed like he was going to retort something but (Y/N) beat him to it.

“If you trust my judgment, you should also trust Echo’s.” (Y/N) answered.

Tech looked like he was going to apologize but Rex (looking frustrated) interrupted,

“Get moving.”

(Y/N) walked up the stairs, with the two behind her.

Tech sat in the pilot’s seat, the Marauder taking off with a squad of Clone transports.

“Please tell me we are blowing something up!” Wrecker cried cheerfully.

“Sorry Wrecker, this is strictly stealth.” Anakin crossed his arms.

“Ugh! I hate that word!” Wrecker groans.

“Okay Echo, you’re up.” (Y/N) instructed the reg.

Echo looks at (Y/N) with a determined expression. He kneels down towards the slot in the ship to put his socket in.

“As soon as I plug in, I’ll send a signal to the command ship.” Echo says.

“What type of signal are you gonna send? Nothing that’ll give us away, right?” Hunter questioned.

“As far as the droids are concerned,” Echo plugged his socket into the ship, “We’re just gonna be another one of their shuttles coming in for a landing.”

“And the regs think we take risks.” Hunter turned to (Y/N).

(Y/N) looked slightly unsettled, thinking about how risky Echo’s plan was. But, she had complete faith in him and her squad.

“Sending the signal… now.” Echo interrupted (Y/N) from her thoughts.

There’s a pause and the galaxy itself seemed to stop moving for a moment. (Y/N) prayed that this will convince the droids.

“Roger, roger, Shuttle TC-159. You may approach and land.”

(Y/N) let out a silent sigh of relief.

“I’d still rather blow it up.” Wrecker said.

“I have a feeling you’ll get your chance.” Tech glanced back at Wrecker.

The Marauder flew closer and closer to the control ship. Once the Marauder had gone underneath the control ship, Tech had securely attached the smaller ship to the large one.

(Y/N) had gone and opened up the hatch down to the control ship.

“Everyone ready?” (Y/N) asked the squad.

They all looked at each other, and Anakin nodded. The squad jumped out from the hatch, landing as quietly as they could. (Y/N) took the lead, with Anakin right behind her.
She signaled to her squad to keep an eye out for any sort of surprises, while motioning for Tech to do his thing.

They entered a bright control room with lots of flashing and beeping things. Tech rushed to the door, and put his datapad on it. Though it only took a couple buttons to get the door open, (Y/N) couldn’t help but admire how quickly and efficiently Tech worked. Being the General of Clone Force 99, she’d seen all her squad mates' enhancements come into play, but it still appeared that even the smallest things could impress her.

The door opened, and Echo stepped inside. Tech and (Y/N) at his heels along with the rest of the squad.

“Tech, can you rig an interface?” Echo turned to the genius.

“I assume that’s a rhetorical question.” Tech answered as he got on his knees.

Echo ignored his sass and turned to Anakin.

“We should make sure this comm vault has no other entrances.”

“I’m on it.” Anakin turned in the other direction, walking towards Hunter, Wrecker and Crosshair.

Echo readies his socket, and plugs it into the database.

“Alright, I have access to everything and good timing. I just scanned a strategy request Trench sent to the Techno Union-“

“Wait!” Tech protested.

(Y/N) and Rex sharply turned their heads to Tech while Echo gripped his head.

“You can’t just send a signal from here.” Said Tech.

“Why not?” Echo asked.

“We have to make it appear as if your signal is originating form Skako Minor-“

“Otherwise they’d know we’re here.” (Y/N) finished.

Echo looked at Tech and (Y/N) before nodding in agreement.

He went back to his data searching- er, something like that. But it wasn’t long before another interference occurred.

Tech looks up from his wrist controls.

“I’m intercepting a transmission. Trench is ordering all of his droids to the assembly complex.” Tech looks at the Jedi and Hunter.

“Alright Echo, what are you trying to pull?” Hunter suspiciously questions.

“Don’t worry, that’s what I told him to do.” Echo assures.

“But our troops will be vastly outnumbered.” Rex exclaimed.

“Not when I send them a feedback pulse that shuts down all the droids.” Echo answered.

“How do we know that’s what you’re really going to do?” Tech questioned.

“We have to trust Echo.” (Y/N) told Hunter and Tech.

The two looked at each other, skeptical. But not ones to mistrust their General’s judgment.

“(Y/N)‘s right. Echo, we’re all counting on you.” Anakin said.

Echo nodded firmly, grateful for the support the two Jedi were showing as he got back to work.

(Y/N) doesn’t miss the glances Hunter and Tech gave each other.

(Y/N) elected to ignore them, and moved her arm closer to her face, talking into the built-in comm system.

“Master Windu, I know this sounds insane, but it’s gonna get a little more crowded where you are.” She spoke.

“We have our hands full as it is. What is your plan?” Master Windu yelled over what (Y/N) assumed was blaster fire.

Hunter looked at (Y/N), brows furrowed.

“Well, if it makes you feel better, it’s not Master Skywalker’s plan.” (Y/N) answered.

“Hey!”

“Echo is drawing all the droids to your position, so he can neutralize them all at the same time.” (Y/N) explains.

She turns back to Echo, who’s still messing with the control system. Suddenly, a spark of electricity traveled all the way up the panel the group was working at.

Not even a parsec later, a beeping is heard from (Y/N)’s comm.

“I am pleased to report that we are in control of the assembly complex, and all of the fronts are falling to the Republic thanks to Echo’s plan.” Master Windu speaks.

“That’s good news Master Windu, we’re on our way back to base”. (Y/N) says.

“May the Force be with you.”

“Good job, Echo.” Anakin tells the reg.

“Well, I guess you actually are on our side.” Hunter said with a hint of relief.

(Y/N) lightly slapped him, indicating him to shut up.

Echo laughed and cheekily asked, “Was there ever any doubt?”

“Some.” Tech cuts in.

“Well, thanks.” Echo sarcastically replied.

“I hate to break it to you all, but we’re not out of this yet. Unplug, and let’s get the kriff outta here.” Said (Y/N).

The group was about to leave, putting on their helmets, before Echo said,

“Wait, I just scanned a new order from Trench. He’s initiated a countdown. There’s a bomb hidden at the assembly complex, but it’s big enough to destroy most of Anaxes.”

“Can you stop it?” (Y/N) asked.

“Well, I can try.” Echo replied.

(Y/N) and Anakin looked at each other, before nodding in agreement without words.

Anakin headed off in a run.

“General, where are you going?” Rex yelled.

“If you can’t stop the detonation, perhaps Trench can!” Anakin yelled back.

(Y/N) wasted no time as she commed Master Windu.

“Master Windu! We’ve discovered a bomb in the fusion reactor. We need someone to go down there and help disarm it!” (Y/N) urgently said.

“I’m on my way!”

(Y/N) kneeled beside Echo, and held up her comm to the clone.

“I found the bomb! Tell me the sequence to shut it down.” Windu says.

“I’m decrypting it now.” Echo clutched his head.

Tech kneeled down on the other side of Echo.

“You have to unplug, they’re going to detect us!”

“No, no. We need these codes.” Echo insisted.

“The first number in the sequence is… three…the next one is, one…eight… Seven…” Echo spoke.

“I have a bad feeling about this.” (Y/N) muttered.

Sure enough, the same electrical wave from earlier came falling down from where it had come from. Heading straight at Echo.

“They’re onto us! You need to unplug now!” Tech’s voice rang out.

But it was too late.

The shock had reached Echo. His body convulsed as he yelled in pain. (Y/N) and Rex pulled the clone away from the panel. Echo was brought down to the floor, unconscious.

“Echo?” Mace’s voice came through.

“The server overloaded his neural system, and it appears deliberate.” Said Tech.

“Echo!”

“It’s a good bet Trench knows we’re here.” (Y/N) said.

“Echo, are you there?”

(Y/N) brought her comm back up to her face.

“Master Windu, Trench took out Echo. We can’t get you the last number in the sequence. I’m sorry, you’ll have to disarm the bomb without us.”

“Don’t worry about me, Master (L/N), just get you and your men out of there!”

(Y/N) shut the comm off, determined to make sure all of the group gets off this ship together.

Her ears pick up the sound of blaster fire in a nearby corridor. She’s sure Hunter heard it too.

(Y/N) rushed to the front of Hunter, trusting that Rex and Tech will help Echo make it back safely.

(Y/N) unhooked her lightsaber from her belt and ignited its white blade.

Crosshair and Wrecker were upfront, shooting down as many B2 droids as they could. (Y/N) jumped in front of the two, taking down six droids, clearing the corridor. She motioned for the group to continue, Rex with Echo slung over his shoulder. Tech and Hunter at the rear, defending the squad from threats.

The squad ran straight into another battalion of droids, (Y/N) spinning her lightsaber in a way that almost felt foreign to her.

Rex put Echo down against the wall.

“We can’t just blast our way out! There’s too many of them!”

(Y/N) continues blocking incoming fire as Wrecker hands Hunter his blaster.

The giant positions his helmet on top of his head, punching his hands together, making it fall into place.

(Y/N) slowly withdrawals her attacks as she sees Wrecker getting into position.

“What’s he doing?!” Rex yelled out to Hunter and (Y/N).

“TIME TO RELEASE THE WRECKING BALL!!!” Wrecker yelled as he charged into the droids.

“YEAH!!!”

The clankers Wrecker had gone for were all gone in less than a minute. He used his bare hands to grab some battle droids and smash them against each other. Along with banging all of the droids against the corridor wall.

“Honestly, I feel kinda bad for those droids.” (Y/N) smugly said with her lightsaber still in a defensive stance, despite the threat being taken care of by Wrecker.

Wrecker continued ramming the droids into one another, having a huge pile to shield himself from incoming fire. But that didn’t last long as he finished off the battle droids.

“It’s all clear!”

Wrecker had stopped in front of a cowardly (and unfortunate) clanker who was shaking in fear.

“Please, not the face! Not the face!” It yelled as Wrecker brought down his fist into the poor droid’s head, silencing it.

The squad made their way through the corridor filled with droid remains, but (Y/N) could hear that more droids were already on their way.

“More droids!” She yelled as made her way beside Tech, lightsaber raised.

“Go. I’ll buy you some time.” Crosshair said as he walked in front of the pair.

He threw one of his target deflectors at an unsuspecting battle droid.

“Sticky!” The droid said as the deflector landed on him.

Crosshair then shot the droid in the head, making it drop down to its knees. Once down, Cross aimed at the deflector and hit the target. Causing the blast to ricochet off the droid into the three others.

“Come on! Cross, we’ll meet you at the infiltration point!” (Y/N) said as she motioned for the rest of the squad to follow her.

Hunter handed Wrecker back his blaster.

“Oh! He’s gonna try and top me! You watch!” Wrecker groaned.

(Y/N) jogged up ahead to lead the group to the infiltration point, her lightsaber glowing with its bright white hue.

The group came to a halt.

“This is the infiltration point.”

(Y/N)’s ears twitched.

“There’s more clankers coming this way.” She warned, she prepared her signature defensive stance.

“I’m picking up dozens of droids on my sensors, all heading this way.” Tech told them.

“Hope you’re not waiting on me.” Anakin said as he ran up to the group.

“Now all we’re missing is Crosshair.” Hunter says.

As if on cue, Crosshair came running down the corridor the group just came from, sticking loads of deflectors all over the walls.
Cross skidded to a halt on his knees and (Y/N) could just feel the smirk on Crosshair's face beneath his helmet as he planned to show off.

“You miss me?”

Crosshair brought the scope of his Firepuncher up to his eye.

“How touching.”

He aimed his blaster and hit the first deflector. The blaster fire ricocheted off every single one he had planted. In fact, (Y/N) could hear the blaster fire still hitting its targets all the way down through a different corridor.

(Y/N) turned around to see Wrecker’s gobsmacked face as he lifted his helmet up.

“Relax Wreck. You’ll top him next time.” (Y/N) giggled.

As (Y/N) lead the group away, she could hear the playfulness in Crosshair’s voice.

“No he won’t.”

Wrecker gave a cry in response.

The squad made their way back into the Marauder, where (Y/N) helped Rex lower Echo into the passenger’s seat. Securing him. She put a hand on Rex’s shoulder as a sign of saying that Echo will be okay. Rex nodded in relief at her.

Tech took to the pilot’s seat, detaching the Marauder from the control ship.

Anakin looked at Wrecker and smirked.

“I’ve got a present for you, Wrecker.” He held out a detonator to the giant.

“Oh, seriously?! I get to blow it up?! The whole stinking thing?!” Wrecker took the detonator from Anakin.

Crosshair shook his head. Some habits never get old.

(Y/N) grinned as Wrecker wiped a tear away.

“This is the happiest day of my life.” He said.

Then, he pushed the button. (Y/N) didn’t need to see the explosion to know that it was beautiful. The whole ship rocked slightly from the sheer force.

(Y/N) sat in the copilot’s seat next to Tech. Pushing buttons to stabilize the ship. She pretended to ignore the stare Tech was giving her. Assuming it was just because he didn’t expect her to help land the ship.

But Tech was looking at her in admiration. Sure, they had been on many missions before, but he couldn’t help think about how despite how disheveled (Y/N)’s appearance was, she was still the most beautiful being in the galaxy to Tech.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

“Captain Rex, Corporal Echo, Clone Force 99, you have all done a great service for the Republic. Thanks to your courage and effort, Republic shipyards will soon be up and running again.” Master Windu spoke then walked away.

“You’ve got some medals coming your way.” Obi-Wan commented.

“Thank you, General.” Rex said as he watched the Jedi walk away.

Rex and Echo began to walk away, but then, Echo stopped. He looked back to Clone Force 99, confused.

“You coming?” He asked.

“Not really our thing.” Tech said.

“Accolades.” Crosshair took the toothpick out of his mouth.

“Yeah, we’re just in it for the thrill. Yo!” Wrecker says.

(Y/N) and her squad shared a look before (Y/N) placed a hand on Echo’s shoulder.

“You sure it’s your thing?” She smiled.

“What do you mean?” He asked, again confused.

“I sense your path is different. Like ours. If you ever feel like you don’t fit in with them, come find us.” (Y/N) took her hand off Echo’s shoulder.

(Y/N) motions for her squad to head back to the Marauder.

“Before we take off, let’s go ahead and get some supplies. I have a feeling we’ll need extra rations this time.” (Y/N) directed her gaze at Wrecker.

“Haha! Yeah!” Wrecker cheered.

(Y/N)’s ears twitched at her squad mates began a conversation… or argument. She heard Rex and Echo talking.

“Those are some of the finest troopers and Jedi I’ve fought alongside… Echo?” Rex’s voice asked.

There was a pause.

“You and I go way back… If that’s where you feel your place is, then that’s where you belong.”

(Y/N) turned around, and Echo was grinning walking towards The Bad Batch.

She smiled as if to say welcome to the team.

Tech, Hunter, Crosshair, and Wrecker looked pleased with Echo’s decision to join.

Echo turned around to Rex, who had turned around as well, and with his socket arm, saluted the captain.

(Y/N) watched as the rest of The Bad Batch saluted the captain. She nodded her head to Rex, and gave him a bow.

Chapter Text

“Tech, my young friend," Obi-Wan greeted, a hint of concern in his voice.

"General Kenobi," Tech replied respectfully, inclining his head. "Is something troubling you?"

Obi-Wan hesitated for a moment, his gaze fixed on the horizon.

"It's about General (L/N), Tech."

Tech's eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

"What about her, General?"

Obi-Wan turned his gaze to Tech, his blue eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and wisdom.

"I've observed something... interesting. Something that has given me cause for concern."

Tech's curiosity was piqued, and he listened attentively as Obi-Wan continued.

"(Y/N), as you know, is a remarkable Jedi. But she carries a weight within her, a burden that has dimmed her light over the years. She rarely smiles, Tech, and her laughter is a rarity."

Tech's expression softened, his thoughts turning to the Jedi General.

"(Y/N) has been through a lot,” Obi-Wan nodded. "And yet, I've noticed something when she's around you."

Tech blinked, surprised. "Around me? What do you mean?"

Obi-Wan's gaze held a knowing glint. "She smiles, Tech. More often than I've ever seen her smile. There's a light in her eyes, a warmth that wasn't there before. And I believe it's because of you."

Tech's cheeks tinged with a faint blush, caught off guard by the revelation.

"I... I didn't realize."

"Sometimes, Tech, we have the power to heal and uplift others without even knowing it," Obi-Wan said softly.

"Your presence has brought something out in her that has been buried deep for too long."

Tech's gaze softened, his heart swelling with a mixture of emotions.

“She doesn't smile a lot. But I've seen her around you, you must be very special to her to see her smile genuinely, and I can feel her happiness through the Force."

"I'm honored if I can bring her even a little happiness, General."

Obi-Wan placed a reassuring hand on Tech's shoulder.

"And that's why I must ask something of you, Tech."

Tech looked at Obi-Wan with a serious expression, ready to listen.

"I have a bad feeling about the future," Obi-Wan admitted, his voice tinged with sorrow.

"The Force whispers to me, and it tells me that our paths might soon diverge."

Tech's brows furrowed in concern.

"You mean... you won't see each other again?"

Obi-Wan nodded, his gaze heavy.

"Yes, that's what I fear. And if that happens, I want you to promise me something."

Tech's eyes met Obi-Wan's, a mixture of determination and understanding in his gaze.

"Of course, General."

"Take care of (Y/N)," Obi-Wan said firmly.

"Watch over her. Protect her. I've seen the difference you've made in her life, the happiness you've brought her. She deserves that light, Tech, even in the darkest of times."

Tech's voice was steady as he responded, "I promise, General Kenobi. I'll be there for her, no matter what."

Obi-Wan's lips curved into a small, grateful smile.

"I knew I could count on you, Tech. Remember, the Force works in mysterious ways. It brought you two together for a reason. Whatever the future holds, know that you've made an impact on her life."

Tech nodded, his determination unwavering.

"Thank you, General. I'll do my best."

Obi-Wan's gaze shifted to the horizon once more, his heart heavy with the weight of his premonition. He knew that their journey was uncertain, but he couldn't deny the hope that lingered within him.

"May the Force be with you both."

And with that, Obi-Wan turned to leave.
Tech didn’t know what to say. As a matter of fact, he was speechless. (Y/N) smiles more around him? No that can’t be. It has to be Hunter. Yes, yes. Hunter was their fearless, empathetic…attractive leader.

But General Kenobi is rarely ever known to make mistakes. And he’s known (Y/N) since they were children. Why is he thinking so much about it?

“Hey trooper.”

Tech physically jumped, surprised he’d been caught off guard. It was Rex, he had his helmet under his right arm while he looked at Tech.

“C-Captain.” He stuttered.

“Easy soldier. Didn’t mean to startle you… I see General Kenobi has given you a word of the wise.” Said Rex.

“Yes. General Kenobi was just suggesting some advice and providing some unknown knowledge to myself.”

“I see… Tech, do you mind if I speak to you freely for a moment?”

As Rex leaned in and lowered his voice, a sly grin tugging at his lips, Tech's curiosity was piqued.

"What is on your mind now, Captain?"

Rex's grin grew even wider, and he inclined his head towards the direction (Y/N) had left in.

"Forgive me if I’m intruding, but I’ve noticed some things going on between you and the General?"

Tech's expression shifted from curiosity to bewilderment.

"I beg your pardon?"

Rex nudged Tech playfully.

"Come on, don't think I haven't noticed how you light up around her. Extra chivalrous, and maybe just a tad more self-conscious."

Tech's cheeks reddened slightly, a mixture of embarrassment and defense.

"Rex, you're imagining things. My interactions with (Y/N) are solely professional."

Rex leaned in, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"Oh, come on, Tech. Deny it all you want, but it's written all over your face. I've been around long enough to spot these things."

Tech exhaled, his voice tinged with exasperation and panic.

"Captain, I assure you, any perceived emotions are a result of mutual respect and cooperation. Nothing
more.”

Rex threw his hands up, feigning defeat.

"Well, if you say so, Tech. But you're either a master at suppressing feelings or just plain blind."

Tech scowled at Rex's playful insinuations.

"Rex, I have no time for romantic notions. My relationship with (Y/N) is built on mutual goals and objectives."

Rex raised his hands in mock surrender.

“For the record, I think she likes you too.” Rex smiled as he lightly shoved Tech in a brotherly manner.

As Rex began to walk away, Tech snapped out of his thoughts and asked, “What is that supposed to mean?”

Rex shrugged lazily. Tech’s face was dusted with a pink color, due to his embarrassment.
As if on cue, (Y/N) left the supply room with a box full of what seemed to be rations. As she passed Rex, the captain gave a salute.
Tech was still lost in his thoughts, even when (Y/N) had come straight up to him.

“Tech?” She asked.

Tech blinked and looked at (Y/N).

“You okay?”

“Ah, yes. I was merely lost in thought.”

“Right. Erm- this is the last box of supplies needed, so we should probably head back to the ship.” (Y/N) said awkwardly.

“R-right. Of course. Would you like me to carry that box?” Tech asked, equally as awkward.

“I’m okay, thanks for asking.”

“I insist.”

Tech carefully took the box of rations out of (Y/N)’s arms. He observed how her ears twitched.
They began their walk back to the Marauder. Hunter was standing outside while conversing with Echo. Likely telling him the ropes of the squad.
They both turned their heads to Tech and (Y/N). As Tech made his way into the ship, (Y/N) stood by Hunter and Echo.

“Are you ready trooper?” (Y/N) asked.

Echo smiled, then saluted, “Yes sir!”

“Good. Once we get back to Kamino, Tech will design some armor for you.” (Y/N) said.

Echo looked content with the plan, and walked into the Marauder.

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Hunter whispered to (Y/N).

(Y/N) turned to the Sergeant.

“He’s like us, Hunter. Though he had a different beginning, his place will be here. We all agreed.”

“I know, but I’m worried about-“

“Crosshair?”

“Yeah.” Hunter sighed.

“It’ll be alright. He’ll get used to it.” (Y/N) assured.

She had full faith in Crosshair’s attitude changing towards Echo. It may take time, but he’ll warm up eventually. Just as he did with (Y/N).
Hunter nodded in agreement before heading into the Marauder.

“(Y/N)!”

(Y/N) looked over her shoulder, and saw Obi-Wan and Anakin walking up to her.
(Y/N) grinned but dreaded what she knew was coming next.

“Come to say goodbye to an old friend?” She asked.

“No, we’ve come to say goodbye to a fellow acquaintance.” Obi-Wan answered.

“Hardy-har… But thanks for coming out, both of you.” (Y/N) says to her good friends.

“Come on now, couldn't let you have all the fun.” Anakin laughs.

“I disagree. Things were going quite well with the 212th before I was forced to come here.” Obi-Wan stroked his beard.

“Forced? You came here with your own free will. You have no one to blame but yourself.” (Y/N) smiled.

“Alright, alright. I have to be the adult here and stop the argument before it starts.” Anakin raised his arms mockingly, separating the two masters.

“I’d hardly consider you an adult.” (Y/N) said playfully.

“Ouch.” Anakin said (unbothered).

“But it’s been fun boys. I have to admit though, I wish we had more time together.”

“In all seriousness, You and your squad are some of the finest people I’ve ever fought alongside.” Anakin said.

(Y/N) smiled pridefully.

“Thank you. I’m glad we met your expectations.”

“I think you exceeded them.” Obi-Wan added.

“Well, unfortunately, this is where we part ways.”

(Y/N) reached her hand out to shake, but Anakin pulled her into a hug. Surprise coloring the elf’s face. Obi-Wan grinned, but then, (Y/N) stretched her hand out and used the Force to bring Obi-Wan into the hug as well.
(Y/N) had gotten a vision while meditating recently. It hadn't been a good one. It was dark, and painful. She needed the comfort of her friends. But even now, she sensed something was amiss, and that she’ll never see this pair again.

The trio released each other.

“Both of you, understand if you need me, I’ll only be a meditation away.” (Y/N) said.

“In that case, it may be a while until you and Anakin talk to one another again.” Obi-Wan smiled.

“Anakin, you promised me you’d meditate more!”

“Hey! I did meditate more! It’s just not much by yours and Obi-Wan’s standards.” Anakin insisted.

The group shared one last laugh before (Y/N) turned towards the Marauder. But not before saying,

“May the Force be with you both.”

“May the Force be with you.” Obi-Wan echoed.

“May the Force be with you.” Anakin also echoed.

Little did the trio know, that’s the last time they’d be together.

Chapter Text

A couple standard months went by since finding Echo. The group had gotten closer to the new addition to The Bad Batch. His place in the squad was found. It had taken some time, and some close call missions, but the team had learned to function with the new addition.

As if right now, the group had gotten back to Kamino, after another successful mission. (Y/N) had gone to speak with Master Shaak Ti, while the rest of the Bad Batch sat around in their barracks.

Tech was currently tinkering with his helmet, adding new features to help with further missions. Tech had stopped working to look up and see his brothers. Hunter was twirling his knife absently around his fingers. Crosshair was messing with his Firepuncher. Wrecker was doing some ‘weight training’ with some boxes that held equipment in it. And Echo was reading some files he’d found on Domino squad.

As Tech worked, he realized he’d forgotten his micro-repulsor back at the Marauder. Sighing, he stood up, and placed his helmet on the table, and trudged over to the door.

“Where are you going?” Hunter asked.

“I’ve forgotten a part in the Marauder. I will be back.” Tech opened the door and stepped out.

He made his way through the winding corridors, looking down at his datapad.

Unbeknownst to him, a group of regular clone troopers had gathered in the corridor leading to the Marauder. They were chatting amongst themselves when they spotted Tech.

"Hey, look who it is," one of the clones sneered, nudging his companion with a wicked grin. "It's one of those 'defective' clones."

Tech, accustomed to the ridicule, raised an eyebrow but continued walking. "I prefer the term 'enhanced,' thank you."

The group of clones followed him, their laughter growing louder.

"Enhanced? More like a walking glitch. You and your Bad Batch buddies are a real circus act."

Tech sighed and kept moving, ignoring their jeers as he approached the Marauder. But as he reached for the ship's access panel, one of the clones decided to escalate the situation. He pushed Tech against the wall with a forceful shove, Tech’s datapad clattering to the floor.

"Oops, looks like you dropped something, freak," the clone mocked.

Tech, feeling helpless in this situation, clenched his fists but remained calm. He was used to such encounters, but he couldn't help but feel a growing sense of frustration and anxiety.

“Perhaps you should let me pick it up.”

That earned a slap from the reg to Tech’s left cheek. The clone’s gauntlet scratches his cheek. Tech winced as he felt liquid coming out of his wound.

At that very moment, elsewhere in Tipoca City, (Y/N) was deep in conversation with Shaak Ti, another Jedi Master.

"Excuse me Master, I have something I must attend to." (Y/N) said, her sharp elven senses attuned to disturbances in the Force. Shaak Ti nodded understandingly.

“Very well, Master (L/N). I shall see you later.” Shaaki Ti said warmly.

Without wasting a moment, (Y/N) gracefully made her way through Kamino’s corridors, guided by the Force. She soon arrived at the scene where Tech was being taunted and pushed around by the group of clones. She was shocked to see Tech struggling against the grip of the clones holding him. Slight anger wielding up inside her.

With a commanding presence, (Y/N) stepped forward, her eyes fixed on the bullies.

"That's enough," she stated firmly.

The clones, momentarily taken aback by her voice, ceased their bullying and turned their attention to the newcomer.

“What do you think you’re doing, troopers?” She said, eerily calm.

“W- we were just having some fun.” The lead clone stuttered.

(Y/N) crossed her arms, her frustration palpable.

"This is not how we treat each other here on Kamino, or anywhere else for that matter. We are all here for a common purpose, and it is our duty to support each other. My squad have saved countless lives, and their unique skills are an asset, not a reason for mockery."

Out of the many months of working personally with (Y/N), Tech was able to pick up changes in emotions in her. But he had never once seen (Y/N) as annoyed as she was right now.

The clones mumbled apologetically, feeling the weight of her authority and reluctantly stepped back from Tech. He straightened himself, grateful for Y/N's timely arrival, and picked up his datapad, which thankfully, wasn’t completely broken.

“Get going, all of you. If I catch you doing this again with my squad or any squad, the consequences will be more severe.” (Y/N) snapped.

The clones nodded, and scampered away.

"Thank you," Tech said with genuine relief in his voice.

(Y/N) nodded, but her eyes went to Tech’s cheek. She reached out, and examined the small cut. She ignored the reddening in Tech’s cheeks along with hers.

“Let’s get that cleaned up.” She took her hand off of the engineer’s face.

Tech followed (Y/N) into the Marauder, his heart beating out of his chest.

(Y/N) grabs the med kit and makes her way over to where Tech is sitting.

“So, how’d you run into them?” She asked as she opened the kit.

“I needed my micro-repulsor to finish my helmet repairs. But I had realized I left it in the Marauder. So I was on my way to retrieve it.” Tech explained.

“And those clones stopped you on your way there?” (Y/N) opened a disinfectant spray.

“Yes.”

(Y/N) gently turned Tech’s head to the side, showing her the full cut. It wasn’t too bad by The Bad Batch’s standards, but it was there. Tech was 100% sure that (Y/N) could hear how loud his heart was beating. She sprayed the disinfectant on the cut. Tech winced a little at the sting.

“That should speed up the healing process.” (Y/N) said as she put the spray back into the kit.

She got up, her face was hot, she had hoped Tech couldn’t tell. After she put the kit away, she went over to Tech’s workbench and picked up the repulsor.

She made her way back to Tech, and handed the tool to Tech. Tech blinked owlishly at her for a moment, before snapping back to reality.

“Ah, er- thank you for cleaning the wound.” He says as he takes the tool.

(Y/N) smiled.

“Don’t mention it.”

A beeping noise came from (Y/N)’s private comlink in her robes. She took the device out and answered it.

A small hologram of Obi-Wan had appeared.

“Hello there.” He said.

“General Kenobi, is everything alright?”

Tech knew he wasn’t permitted to stay and listen to the Jedi’s conversation, so he decided to head back to the squad’s barracks. Tech gave (Y/N) a look, indicating he was going to leave. To which, (Y/N) nodded.

Once the clone was out of the ship, Obi-Wan began to speak.

"(Y/N), we've encountered a dire situation. Chancellor Palpatine was kidnapped, and Anakin and I were tasked with his rescue."

(Y/N)’s brow furrowed.

"I understand the council selected you two for this, but what is troubling, Obi-Wan?"

Obi-Wan continued with a sigh,

"Anakin... He confronted Count Dooku, I was unconscious, and during the battle, he... he killed him."

(Y/N)’s heart sank at the revelation.

"Killed Dooku? But that's not the way of a Jedi, Obi-Wan. I've always believed in Anakin, and understood his tactics sometimes, but this is difficult to comprehend.”

Obi-Wan nodded, his holographic image flickering with the weight of the truth.

"I know, (Y/N). It was a difficult moment, and I sense the darkness in him growing."

Their bond through the Force allowed them to share their emotions, offering a form of comfort amidst the uncertainty. (Y/N) leaned forward, her eyes searching Obi-Wan's projection.

"Obi-Wan, how are you feeling about all this? It must be taking a toll on you."

Obi-Wan hesitated before responding,

"It's a heavy burden to bear. Anakin is like a brother to me, and seeing him walk this path is painful. But I must focus on our duty to protect the Republic."

(Y/N) nodded, understanding the weight of his responsibility.

"You have my support, Obi-Wan, and the strength of Mirkwood if needed.” (Y/N) said.

“Thank you, (Y/N). I am just… unsure of what this may do.” Obi-Wan said desperately.

“I should tell you, Obi-Wan, I’ve been having visions… of the future.” (Y/N) started.

Obi-Wan looked curious and concerned.

(Y/N) sighed before continuing.

“The future, it’s not looking good. All I feel is pain, anger, and suffering. I fear for the Jedi, and the Republic.”

“I’ve been having the same visions. I must admit, I’m uneasy about the future. I asked Master Yoda about it, but he seemed just as troubled.” Obi-Wan admitted.

“We must be careful my friend, I sense darkness growing. I sense things aren’t as they seem. Please… keep an eye on Anakin, and the Chancellor. He’s been in power way longer than what should be made possible.” (Y/N) tells Obi-Wan.

“Of course my old friend. I wish you the best on your next mission, may the Force be with you.” Obi-Wan says.

“May the Force be with you.” (Y/N) said as she turned off her comlink.

She sighed and rubbed her temples. Something bad is going to happen. And there’s nothing she can do to change it.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

(Y/N) made her way back to the barracks. After Obi-Wan had called her, the Jedi Council had called an emergency meeting. They made Anakin a member of the council, but not a Master… upon Chancellor Palpatine’s request. What concerned (Y/N) was Anakin’s anger at the matter. She could feel his strong emotions through the Force. Her concern grew even stronger once Anakin had left the meeting. The council had agreed it was best that Anakin keep an eye on Palpatine. His reign over the Senate was seemingly ‘Poisoning the Republic’ as (Y/N) had stated bluntly.

Obi-Wan was elected to go and engage General Grievous on the planet Utapau. When it came (Y/N)‘s turn however, she became frustrated with the Council. They had elected to have her and her squad separated while she was to go to the planet Nevarro to help the clones trying to evacuate the war refugees.

(Y/N) opened the doors to her squad’s barracks. The clones looked at their General with concern in their eyes, noticing that (Y/N) was frustrated.

“What’s got your laser sword in a knot?” Crosshair asked.

“The council told me to report to Nevarro to help with an evacuation for civilians.” (Y/N) grit out.

“Okay, but what are we supposed to do there?” Hunter asked.

“Not us, me.”

Hunter looked at (Y/N) with a blank stare.

“Not trying to question the validity of the council, but are they sure it’s a good idea? It’s so close to the end of the Clone Wars.”

“That’s what I told them, but they wouldn’t listen.” (Y/N) answered.

“When do you leave?” Echo asked.

“In a couple standard hours.” Said (Y/N) grimly.

“That is not ideal.” Tech said.

“Well, I can’t really disobey direct orders from the council.” (Y/N) explained.

“It’s okay General! We’ll see ya once ya get back!” Wrecker chimed in.

(Y/N) bit her lip. She didn’t know if she’d ever get back.

“Hunter, may I speak with you in private?” (Y/N) asked nervously.

Hunter looked momentarily taken aback by the nervousness radiating off of their confident, calm and collected General.

Hunter nodded as the two made their way out the door. Leaving his brothers to squabble about what they think the General and sergeant will talk about.

“What’s wrong?” Hunter asked.

(Y/N) took a deep breath.

“Hunter… I’ve been having these dreams… visions of the future.”

Hunter paused for a moment. He understood the importance of Force visions. He didn’t exactly believe in those when he had met the Jedi, but quickly realized that his judgment was misplaced. A number of times (Y/N) had Force visions that had ultimately saved their lives. What the scariest part about it was, is that they were always accurate.

“I get the feeling that’s not the only thing troubling you.” Hunter said suspiciously.

“Yes. Anakin…he- killed Count Dooku.” (Y/N) managed to get out.

Hunter looked at (Y/N) with wide eyes. He knew Master Skywalker’s methods were a bit unconventional even for his squad, but the news still shocked him.

“But that’s not all… these visions, they’re a warning, Hunter. Something awful is going to happen. I fear the safety of this squad, and-“

“If we were to separate there’s a chance we won’t ever see each other again.” Hunter finished.

(Y/N) nodded solemnly.

“The galaxy teeters on the edge of a great conflict," (Y/N) explained, her eyes pleading for understanding. "And I fear that if we are separated, we won't be able to avert disaster. The Bad Batch is more than just a squad; we're a family. Together, we are stronger. But apart... I fear what will happen."

Hunter's head tilted slightly.

He sighed heavily, his shoulders slumping beneath his battle-worn armor.

"I've had my doubts about the Council's decisions lately," he admitted.

"And I agree with you, General. Separating us now, so close to the end of the war, doesn't sit right."

(Y/N) felt a wave of relief wash over her, knowing that Hunter shared her concerns.

"We cannot persuade the Council to reconsider.” She said.

Hunter nodded in agreement. The weight of their impending separation hung heavily over their hearts. (Y/N) turned to Hunter and implored.

"Promise me, Hunter, that you will watch over the squad in my absence. Be vigilant."

Hunter's voice softened as he replied, "You're not just our General; you're part of our family, (Y/N). We'll protect each other, no matter what."

(Y/N) smiled sadly.

The pair walked back into the squad’s barracks. As they opened the door, the squad was not so discreetly discussing what they were talking about. They went silent as they heard the door open. (Y/N) raised an eyebrow at the squad. Hunter went back to his bunk, probably to catch up on some mission reports.

(Y/N) walked to the end of the room, taking a seat on a bench in front of the large window. Staring, searching, into the dark and rainy abyss of Kamino’s waters.

She heard some movement from beside her. She turned her head to see Tech had taken a seat beside her, his datapad in his hand as always. She had taken comfort in his presence, it was almost strange. Tech wasn’t Force-sensitive, yet, his presence in the Force was always there, whether he knew it or not.

“Why does General Kenobi have your private comlink?” He asked.

(Y/N) didn’t notice the jealousy creeping into Tech’s voice.

(Y/N) turned her attention towards Tech, her (E/C) eyes meeting his. Her serene expression revealed no inkling of suspicion about the feelings brewing within him.

"Obi-Wan and I go way back," she replied casually. "We were close friends growing up in the Jedi Temple."

Tech's curiosity (and jealousy??) only grew stronger.

"Close friends? Is that all there is to it?"

(Y/N) chuckled softly, her voice carrying a hint of nostalgia.

"Oh, no. We were once very close," she admitted, her gaze drifting to a distant memory.

"Back then, we found ourselves caught up in a mutual attraction, though it never became anything more."

Tech's eyes widened with surprise. He had never expected such a revelation.

"Attraction? But I thought Jedi aren't allowed to...you know..."

(Y/N) nodded in understanding, her cheeks faintly tinted with a blush.

"You're right. Jedi are forbidden from forming attachments. But, sometimes, emotions can't be controlled. Obi-Wan and I were able to acknowledge our feelings, but we knew that duty to the Order had to come first."

Tech leaned in, his curiosity piqued. "What became of it?"

(Y/N) looked down at her hands.

"We decided that our paths as Jedi were more important than our personal desires," she explained softly. "We both chose to remain dedicated to the Order and its teachings. Our friendship remained, but our romantic feelings were left behind."

Tech couldn't help but feel a mixture of emotions—surprise, jealousy, and a strange sympathy.

"So, you and the General..."

"We became best friends," (Y/N) replied with a wistful smile.

"We supported each other through the toughest times, and we still do. He's like family to me, just like the Bad Batch."

Tech nodded, though a part of him couldn't help but wish things had turned out differently.

"I see.”

(Y/N) glanced at Tech.

He gazed back at her. Something unreadable was in (Y/N)’s expression when he did. It almost seemed like… longing…sorrow?

Tech knew he was different from the rest of his team. He didn't have the brute strength of Wrecker, the sharpshooting skills of Crosshair, or the enhanced abilities of Hunter and Echo. His strength lay in his mind, in his ability to strategize and solve problems, and perhaps that's what drew him to (Y/N) even more. She appreciated his intellect and treated him as an equal.

But as they faced danger together, Tech couldn't help but think that their differences were also what made a relationship between them seem impossible. She was a Jedi, committed to a life of service to the Force, while he was a clone with no clear path beyond the war.

Nope. Nope. He is not in love. Absolutely not. It’s irrational to feel affection towards a Jedi. Let alone a Gray Jedi.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

“R10, are the S-Foils fixed? We don’t want a repeat of last time.” (Y/N) asked her gray Astromech.

The droid replied with a series of chirps and beeps. Confirming that it had indeed fixed the foils.

“Heya General!” A voice boomed from behind the Jedi.

(Y/N) turned around to see her squad walking up to her.

(Y/N) regarded her squad with a serene expression, her (E/C) eyes reflecting a deep sense of respect and camaraderie.

"I know the Council's decision is not what any of us had hoped for," she began, her words a balm to their troubled hearts. "But we are soldiers. Duty calls."

Wrecker, the hulking giant with a heart of gold, scratched his head, his usual boisterousness subdued.

"General, we're gonna miss ya. You're the best. We’ll see ya when ya get back."

(Y/N) smiled warmly at Wrecker.

Crosshair, the sharpshooter with his normally calm and cool demeanor, nodded his head, his words few but sincere.

"You're a damn good leader, General."

(Y/N) tipped her head shyly. Crosshair smirked at her sudden shyness.

Echo stepped forward, his cybernetic enhancements glinting in the soft light.

"You've taught me so much, (Y/N). I won't forget it. Can’t wait to see you on the other side."

"(Y/N)," Tech began, his voice uncharacteristically uncertain.

“(Y/N), you're...you're an incredible leader. Your wisdom, your strength, your compassion—they've guided us through countless missions. I...I want you to know how much I respect you."

(Y/N) regarded Tech with a warm smile, her gaze filled with gratitude.

"Thank you, Tech. I value each one of you as well. The Bad Batch is my family, and I have no doubt you'll succeed in your next mission."

As they shared these heartfelt words, the room was charged with a sense of camaraderie and farewell. Each member of the Bad Batch had their own unique bond with their General, a connection forged in the crucible of battle.

With one last nod of respect, Hunter spoke for them all, "May the Force be with you, General."

(Y/N) replied, "And may it watch over all of you. Stay safe, my brothers."

Little did the squad know, it would be the last time they’d be together as a family.

Chapter Text

The streets of Ord Mantell were ridiculously crowded. People running to get to their destinations, or buying items. As of right now, there’s no Imperials wandering the streets, but (Y/N) knew that would change rather quickly. She had just narrowly avoided being detected by a group of Imperials after she had hid in a storage compartment on a shuttle. 

Nevarro had been hard to get away from. The clones there had no mercy. Like they had no mind whatsoever. (Y/N) had received a blaster shot in her stomach, and shoulder. Both of them had bled out a decent amount before she was able to stitch them. The one on her shoulder had been tricky. The blaster shot had just barely missed her heart. All she had were the scars to show for it.

But why? Why would the clones turn on her? On the Jedi? (Y/N) had a theory.

Anakin had told (Y/N) of a clone, Fives was his name. Fives was trying to warn the Republic of something sinister being planned against the Jedi. He claimed to have proof of a control chip planted in every clone’s head, turning them into mindless weapons. Anakin had explained that Fives was not well at the time, seemingly having some sort of mental breakdown in the midst of when this was happening. (Y/N) had been careful to consider this, she knew Fives back when he was a cadet and part of Domino squad. She had been upset when she heard of his death. Domino Squad always had trouble keeping up with other clones. Regs would bully them along with Clone Force 99.

Speaking of Clone Force 99, (Y/N) couldn’t go an hour thinking about their fate. They’re enhanced clones, yes. But did their mutations prevent the so-called chip in their heads? Or did they suffer the same fate as the regs did?

(Y/N) made her way through the bustling streets of Ord Mantell. Scoundrels and city folk were walking in all sorts of directions.

She came across a glowing sign that read ‘ Cid’s.’

Cid was a sort of trusted ally to the Jedi. She would keep secrets to herself. But of course, with a price. (Y/N) had never actually met her, but heard tales from her old master, Plo.

Well, I suppose I could use some work, or a drink for that matter. (Y/N) mused to herself.

Being an elf, (Y/N) had a high tolerance for alcohol. She wasn’t exactly immune to the liquid’s effects, but it was a lot harder for an elf to get drunk than a human. 

She was able to scavenge herself some credits, from shady work and personal funds. It probably wouldn’t be long before the Empire replaces Republic Credits with their own kind of currency. 

(Y/N) pulled her cloak as far over her eyes as she could, and walked into the bar.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Hunter had hoped Cid would help them find out the identity of the bounty hunter who went after Omega. He was naive to think that Cid would do it for free. Now he and his squad were after some kid called Muchi. Apparently Muchi was being held hostage by Zygerrian slave traders at Ord Mantell’s old city. 

He sighed to himself, watching Omega interact with the rest of his squad in Cid’s parlor. The kid had a good heart, it was a shame she had to grow up in a galaxy like the present. Echo had a drink in his hand while listening to Omega speak happily. Wrecker was smiling and goofing off with her. While Tech was on his datapad. Probably to find out more information about their destination. 

…Or researching what Jedi had supposedly survived.

His thoughts wandered to his General. It was foolish of him to not refuse the council’s orders after (Y/N)’s concerns were raised. Tech hadn’t been the same since the incident. Granted, it was only a few days ago that it happened, but Hunter could immediately pick up on the change in Tech’s mood. It could be due to the lack of Crosshair’s presence, but Hunter knew better. Tech was snappy at his squad mates, impatient almost. And Hunter could smell the anxiety and stress on him. Tech didn’t sleep much back in the Clone Wars, his enhancements made him unable to do so. But he knew Tech was spending late nights, sometimes pulling all-nighters to search the whereabouts of (Y/N).

In any other circumstance Hunter would just assume the Jedi was dead, but knowing (Y/N), she wasn’t just another Jedi. She was the one Jedi who was permitted to kill. She was an elf, a gray Jedi. Someone who possesses powers no Jedi could ever have. Hunter is far from an enthusiastic person, but he couldn’t help but have some faith.

As Hunter took a sip of his drink, he almost choked in surprise. An almost too-familiar scent filled the parlor. A stranger had sat down at the very end of the bar, farthest seat away from Hunter. It was a scent well-known to Hunter, as he smelled it every day whether he wanted to or not. It was the smell of the General.

Hunter turned discreetly to the stranger in the cloak. The stranger looked tense, and was having a shot of something. Before he could say anything, the stranger had gotten up, and moved quickly, almost desperately away from Hunter, leaving the parlor.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

As soon as (Y/N) had went into the bar, she knew she had made a grave mistake. She saw her former squad. She couldn’t just walk in and leave, she had to make herself seem like a normal civilian. She feared that it was already too late, as she sat down and ordered her drink, she knew Hunter was already suspicious.

But what in the Force was Clone Force 99 doing here on Ord Mantell?!

She had seen Wrecker, Tech, and Echo sitting around happily with a little girl that (Y/N) did not recognize. But where is Crosshair?

Realizing the danger, she had decided to make her exit. Hunter, however, had other plans. He decided to follow her discreetly, his training as a tracker coming in handy. 

As (Y/N) maneuvered through the crowded streets of Ord Mantell, she could feel Hunter's presence trailing her. She tried to lose him by weaving through the bustling crowd, but Hunter was relentless.

Finally, she slipped into a narrow alleyway, knowing that Hunter wouldn’t stop, as she sensed his presence. Hunter was not far behind. He pursued her into the dark alley, but (Y/N) vanished from sight.

As the alley darkened, Hunter lost sight of (Y/N). Panic set in, but he couldn't turn back now. Suddenly, a blaster pressed against his back, and he froze, the cold metal sending shivers down his spine

"Planning to kill me, Hunter?"

Hunter recognized that voice immediately and swallowed hard. He couldn’t believe it. (Y/N) had always been the enigmatic and aloof leader, but this was different. She had a certain edge in her tone.

"(Y/N)? Is that really you?"

She didn't lower her blaster, her distrust was fair. 

"Answer the question."

Hunter swallowed hard. "No, (Y/N), I'm not here to kill you."

She regarded Hunter with skepticism, her sharp eyes piercing through the darkness.

(Y/N) scoffed, her sarcasm biting. "Forgive me for being skeptical, but this isn't the reunion I expected."

Desperation crept into Hunter's voice as he pleaded, 

"You have to trust me, (Y/N). Our control chips, they didn't activate. It's because of our mutations. We're different."

"Trust isn't exactly a luxury I can afford these days, especially from a clone trooper. "

Hunter tried to find the right words, struggling to regain her trust. Her words stung him, but he understood the distrust. After all, her entire order was gone because of their kind.

"I know things have changed since Order 66, but I'm not your enemy, (Y/N)."

She raised an eyebrow, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

"Really? A clone trooper trying to convince me of that? What's next, you'll tell me you've suddenly developed a love for nature and long walks in the forest?"

Hunter sighed, realizing how much he had missed (Y/N)'s sarcastic wit. "Look, I know you've been through a lot, but I can help you. We're not all like the Empire."

(Y/N) hesitated for a moment, her elven instincts and Force abilities telling her that Hunter was speaking the truth. Slowly, she lowered her blaster, but her guard remained up.

Hunter decided to play his trump card. 

"Tech and the squad, they haven't been the same without you. They've been worried sick. Especially Tech."

(Y/N) hesitated, her icy demeanor softening slightly. 

"Tech...worried about me?"

Hunter nodded. 

"Yes. We all are. We never stopped looking for you."

(Y/N) finally lowered her blaster, though she still regarded Hunter with skepticism. "I don't know if I can trust you, Hunter."

“Please (Y/N).”

(Y/N) shook her head firmly. "Hunter, by interacting with me, you're putting yourselves in grave danger. The Empire will stop at nothing to eliminate Jedi."

Hunter's gaze never wavered. 

"We're already wanted men by the Empire. Disobeying orders to execute innocents didn't sit well with us."

(Y/N) was resolute. "That's your choice, Hunter, not mine."

Desperation crept into Hunter's voice as he took a step closer to (Y/N), hoping to touch her shoulder to convey his sincerity. But she stepped back, fear flashing in her eyes.

Hunter recoiled. Unsure of what to do.

"I can't risk your safety," (Y/N) said, her voice trembling. "Being associated with a Jedi is a death sentence."

Hunter's heart ached at her words, but he pressed on. 

"Tech hasn't been the same since you disappeared. He hardly sleeps, and he's been snapping at the squad members."

(Y/N) sighed, her resolve wavering. 

"I don't want my closest friends to suffer because of me, but you have to understand, Hunter, the dangers of affiliating with a Jedi. It's not something to be taken lightly."

Hunter looked at (Y/N) earnestly. 

"I know the risks, (Y/N). We're already wanted by the Empire, and the stakes are high. But we can handle it together."

(Y/N) hesitated, her emotions in turmoil. She knew she couldn't keep running forever, and the safety of her friends weighed heavily on her heart. Finally, she nodded, her voice filled with a mix of determination and caution.

"Alright, Hunter," she said, her gaze locked onto his. 

"But you have to be ready for what it means to have a Jedi among you. It won't be easy, and the dangers will be greater than you can imagine."

Hunter nodded in understanding. "We're ready for whatever comes our way, (Y/N). Welcome back to the Bad Batch."

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

With a deep breath, (Y/N) followed Hunter into Cid's bar, hooded and shrouded in mystery. Echo, always vigilant, was the first to speak up.

 "Who's this?"

(Y/N) removed her hood, revealing her elven features, and the room fell into stunned silence. Wrecker was the first to break it, enveloping (Y/N) in a bone-crushing bear hug, lifting her off the ground. She couldn't help but smile at his exuberance.

Echo embraced her warmly as well, and (Y/N) could sense the genuine happiness in their reunion. But her eyes sought out Tech, who stood in shock, his face flushing red with surprise and nervousness.

Unable to contain herself, (Y/N) stepped forward and hugged Tech, catching him off guard. He hesitated for a moment, his heart racing, before gently returning the embrace.

The mood shifted when (Y/N) noticed the absence of Crosshair. 

Her voice turned serious as she asked Hunter, "Where's Crosshair?"

Hunter glanced around the room, not meeting her eyes. "We'll talk more about it when she goes to bed.”

(Y/N) nodded solemnly, and her attention shifted to the young girl who had been quietly observing the reunion. She knelt down to the girl’s eye level and asked kindly, 

"What's your name, little one?"

Omega's eyes widened with awe and shyness as she replied, "I'm Omega."

(Y/N) smiled warmly.

"Nice to meet you, Omega. I’m (Y/N)."

Omega's face lit up with excitement. "You're (Y/N)?! The General (L/N)?! I studied your strategies on Kamino! You’re awesome!”

(Y/N) chuckled, touched by Omega's admiration. "Why thank you.”

But then Omega's innocent curiosity took an unexpected turn.

"Are you Tech's girlfriend?"

There was a moment of awkward silence as both Tech and (Y/N) turned beet red. Tech stuttered out a response, "W-We're not in a relationship."

Omega blinked in confusion, never having expected Tech to stutter. Hunter quickly intervened, trying to save them from further embarrassment.

"It's getting late, Omega. Time for bed."

Relieved, (Y/N) and Tech exchanged sheepish glances. 

“Ooh! Can I show her my room?!” Omega asked excitedly.

“Room? I thought the Marauder was crowded enough as it was.” (Y/N) mused.

“We-eh, used the gunner’s nest, it’s not much, but-“ Hunter began.

“I love it so much!” Omega finished excitedly.

“Well, don’t leave me in suspense.” (Y/N) smiled.

Omega took her hand and led her out to the Marauder. The ship (Y/N) had called her home. Sure the Jedi Temple on Coruscant was close, but being a Gray Jedi, (Y/N) had never felt truly welcome. 

Omega grinned and took (Y/N) by the hand, leading her through the winding corridors of the ship. They finally arrived at the gunner’s nest adorned with colorful drawings and decorations. 

"This is my room!" Omega exclaimed proudly.

(Y/N) was greeted by a sight that took her breath away. The room was a harmonious blend of simplicity and beauty. Soft, warm lights adorned the walls, casting a gentle glow over a bed adorned with plush cushions and a soft Tooka cat stuffed animal named Lula (who belonged Wrecker’s) sitting at the center.

"It's beautiful," (Y/N) whispered, her elven eyes filled with wonder.

Omega beamed, her cheeks slightly flushed with pride. 

"They decorated it for me. They said it's my own little haven."

(Y/N) knelt down beside Omega and patted the bed. 

"It's perfect for you, Omega."

Omega hesitated for a moment before speaking in a soft voice

"You know, I like listening to music before I go to sleep. And I read somewhere that elves are amazing singers."

(Y/N) chuckled nervously. "Well, I'm not sure I'm that good, but I can certainly try."

Omega's eyes lit up, and she fetched a small datapad from her bedside table. "Please, (Y/N)! It would mean a lot to me."

(Y/N) couldn't resist Omega's earnest request, so she sat on the edge of the bed, holding Lula the Tooka cat, and began to sing a soothing melody. Her voice was like a gentle breeze.

Safe and Sound By Taylor Swift

I remember tears streaming down your face 

When I said I'll never let you go

When all those shadows almost killed your light

I remember you said don't leave me here alone

But all that's dead and gone and passed tonight

Just close your eyes, the sun is going down

You'll be alright, no one can hurt you now

Come morning light, you and I'll be safe and sound

Don't you dare look out your window, darling, everything's on fire

The war outside our door keeps raging on

Hold onto this lullaby even when the music's gone, gone

Just close your eyes, the sun is going down

You'll be alright, no one can hurt you now

Come morning light, you and I'll be safe and sound

Ooh (ooh)

Ooh (ooh)

Oh whoa (oh whoa)

Oh whoa (oh whoa)

Ooh (ooh)

Ooh (ooh)

Oh whoa

Oh whoa

Just close your eyes

You'll be alright

Come morning light

You and I'll be safe and sound

Ooh, ooh

Ooh, ooh

Ooh, ooh

Ooh, ooh

Ooh, ooh

Ooh, ooh

As (Y/N) sang, the rest of the Bad Batch couldn't help but feel a strange, inexplicable pull. Hunter, Tech, Echo, and Wrecker gathered outside Omega's door, drawn by the enchanting voice that filled the ship.

Tech raised an eyebrow, his usually stoic demeanor cracking. 

"Is that (Y/N) singing?"

Echo nodded, his eyes wide with amazement. 

"I didn't know she had such a beautiful voice."

Wrecker wiped away an invisible tear. "It's so… pretty."

Hunter whispered, "I had no idea the General could sing like that."

Hunter simply stood there, captivated by the melody, his heart swelling with an inexplicable emotion.

Back in Omega's room, as (Y/N) finished her song, she looked down at the young clone trooper who was now snuggled comfortably under her covers, eyes heavy with sleep.

Omega yawned and smiled sleepily at (Y/N).

"Thank you, (Y/N). That was beautiful."

“Get some rest, Omega.” (Y/N) chided softly.

As soon as the girl fell asleep, (Y/N) quietly left the gunner’s nest. Unaware of the effect of her singing had on her squad mates.

Tech thought about (Y/N)'s kindness and compassion, how she always looked out for them and offered a listening ear to her fellow clones. Her selflessness was a rare trait in their line of work, and it made her all the more endearing.

But it wasn't just admiration that Tech felt. It was a warmth in his chest, a flutter in his heart that defied his logical reasoning. He couldn't understand why he felt so strongly about (Y/N), why he longed to see her, hear her voice, and be near her.

Tech's mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, and he hadn't yet realized the truth.

“Hunter…” (Y/N) began.

The squad snapped out of their thoughts, looking at their general.

“She's just a kid. Are we making the right call?” (Y/N) questioned.

Hunter sighed, defeated.

“Unfortunately, she’s just as wanted as us. A bounty hunter came after her yesterday.”

“What? Who?” (Y/N) asked.

“We’re still working on that. We were hoping Cid could help us.” Echo said quietly.

“What did she want in return?”

“Some child called Muchi was kidnapped and we need to get her back, we’re leaving tomorrow. Tech can brief you.” Hunter said.

“Very well.”

(Y/N) paused. Thinking to herself for a moment before continuing. This question was nagging her mind ever since she’d seen the Bad Batch in Cid’s parlor.

“I sense the turmoil in here. Guys…what happened to Crosshair?”

Chapter Text

(Y/N) didn't know how she felt. Whether she wanted to cry, scream, or anything in between. Though, she knew she should've expected Crosshair's choice. Or lack of. Crosshair had always struggled with his emotions. He was more reserved than the others, except when he didn't like someone. 

When (Y/N) had first joined the squad, she could sense Crosshair's emotions more than he could. It wasn't that she wanted to, it was more like, he was overwhelmed by them, but due to bottling it up, they would come in heavy bursts to (Y/N). Though, she sensed the same with Tech. Whatever the Kaminoans did to her squad, it wasn't good. And (Y/N) swore that one day, she will avenge them.

She'd never forget the day Cross had opened up to her. Since then, he'd been quite protective of her.

"Ugh." Wrecker groans.

"You all right?" Hunter asked the giant.

Wrecker was holding his head in his hands.

"Yeah. Yeah. It's nothing." He replied as he got up.

Wrecker kept his hand on his head, while (Y/N) bit her lip. Wrecker seemed to be getting a rather frequent headache, and quite frankly, it scared (Y/N).

"According to Cid's intel, the Zygerrian slave traders are hiding in the ruins of Old Ord Mantell city." Tech looked up from his datapad.

Omega climbed up onto the copilot's chair, holding a little clone trooper doll in her hand, fiddling with it.

"What's a slave trader?" She asked innocently.

Hunter looked at (Y/N) with a concerned glance.

"Someone who buys and sells people for credits." Tech replied to the curious girl.

"People can be sold?" Omega asked, startled.

"They don't have a choice. They're captives treated like property." Echo explains.

(Y/N) couldn't help but think of Anakin. Obi-Wan had told her when he and Qui-Gon had found the little boy and his mother owned by some scam artist named Watto on Tatooine.

"That...doesn't seem right." Omega clutched her clone trooper doll closer to her chest.

"You're right, young one. It's not right. It's despicable. But we will stop it from happening to this kid Muchi." (Y/N) placed a comforting arm on Omega's shoulder.

Omega looked up at (Y/N) with her bright, innocent, and amber eyes. Ones that (Y/N) had seen almost her entire life. Clone's eyes.

Interrupting (Y/N)'s thoughts, Tech says, "As well as earn a decent amount of credits once the job is complete."

Echo rolls his eyes at his brother's bluntness.

"Yeah, that too."

"Don't worry, Muchi. We'll rescue you." Omega assured herself.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

The Marauder touched down on the sandy, dry wastelands of Old Ord Mantell city. The group geared up. (Y/N) had her two blasters, which she had gotten the idea from Tech, seeing how useful it was to have more than one blaster. She had one clipped to each leg holster, and several hidden elven knives in various places on her person, such as her boot, utility belt, arm, and calf. She also had multiple tools on her belt to help with various tasks. Including her lightsaber. But her Jedi weapon was tucked away where you couldn't see it in her cloak. She would only use it in dire emergencies.

The group left the Marauder, and went to the edge of the cliff. Tech, Wrecker, and Omega each holding a pair of macrobinoculars to look into the distance. But (Y/N) didn't need any of those devices. Elf eyesight was better than any scope. To prove the point, (Y/N) had beat everyone to it by saying,

"I have a visual. I only see one child."

"Poor Muchi. She looks scared." Omega said glumly.

"I'm clocking two dozen hostiles. Multiple entry points with minor fortification." Tech analyzed.

"Simple smash and grab like that time on Kuat. Easy enough." Wrecker said enthusiastically.

"I'm in. What are we waiting for?" Omega got to her feet and began walking with the squad.

But Hunter had grabbed Omega's shoulder.

"You get back to the ship with (Y/N)." He told the girl sternly.

Normally, (Y/N) would be offended that she was to be left behind for backup, but she understood that Hunter was trying to keep Omega safe. If something were to happen to the clones, (Y/N) would be Omega's only source of safety. It was funny. Seeing Hunter act as the responsible parent.

"But-" Omega protested.

"That's an order." Hunter said, getting back to his feet.

Hunter nodded his head to (Y/N), to which she acknowledged with her own tip of her head.

"Yes sir." Omega mumbled as Hunter trudged away.

Once the squad was out of sight, (Y/N) placed a hand on Omega's shoulder.

"Hey, it's okay. You know, he's just trying to protect you." (Y/N) said.

Omega looked up at the former Jedi.

"But, I can take care of myself." She whined.

"Have you ever dealt with slave traders?" (Y/N) asked softly.

"N-no. But I can handle it" Omega answered.

"Omega, it's not about your capabilities. It's about Hunter's concern for your safety."

Omega looked puzzled. "But he trained me. He said I need to learn how to protect myself."

(Y/N) nodded slowly, her hair cascading like a waterfall of moonlight. 

"That's true, Omega. He believes in your potential, just as he believed in mine. But there's something you need to understand."

Omega raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "What is it?"

"When the order came to eliminate the Jedi, Hunter couldn't save me. He couldn't protect me from what happened."

Omega's eyes widened.

"You mean... he feels guilty about what happened to you?"

(Y/N) nodded. 

"Yes, he does. He carries the weight of that with him. That's why he's so adamant about protecting you. He doesn't want to lose another person he cares about."

Omega's frustration began to dissipate, replaced by empathy and understanding. "I never thought about it that way."

(Y/N) smiled gently. 

"And that's not all. Going on missions in this galaxy can be incredibly dangerous. You need experience, not just skills. Hunter wants to make sure you're ready for anything that might come your way."

Omega sighed, the tension in her shoulders easing. "I guess I was being stubborn."

(Y/N) placed a reassuring hand on Omega's cheek. 

"It's okay to be eager, Omega. Your determination is one of your greatest strengths."

Omega nodded, feeling a newfound warmth in her heart.

"Thank you, (Y/N). I needed to hear that."

(Y/N) leaned in and hugged Omega tightly, their bond growing stronger with this heart-to-heart conversation. 

"You're welcome, young one."

The two went back into the Marauder, sitting in the pilot and copilot seats to pass the time.

"Say, (Y/N)?"

"Hm?"

"What's happening between you and Tech?" Omega asked innocently.

(Y/N) almost choked on air.

"W-what makes you think something's going on between us?" (Y/N) asked, her face red.

"Tech gave me his datapad to read some of his notes and files he made during the Clone Wars. I may have gone browsing and found a file about you, and some of the things he said about you were really cute." Omega shrugged.

"O-oh. That's...intriguing."

(Y/N) knew Tech had a hobby (obsession) of writing down certain things to remember or clear his mind. She was well aware that he had made documents on his brothers so he could better understand them. But what (Y/N) didn't know, was that she had something there written about her. And allegedly, it was 'cute'.

Omega began playing with her clone trooper doll. Coloring it a dark gray color with red accents to match the colors of the Bad Batch.

Gonky came over and made a noise, asking what Omega was up to.

"I'm making some alterations to my trooper. Now she's a Bad Batcher. What do you think?" Omega answered proudly.

Suddenly, (Y/N) felt a warning flash in her head. A feeling went through her, one of surprise. She jolted upright in her seat.

"What is it?" Omega asked eagerly.

"Something's wrong!"

Soon enough, both Omega and (Y/N) turned their heads to a voice outside the Marauder.

"We found their ship." Presumably a Zygerrian guard said.

"Omega, Gonky, hide." (Y/N) quietly instructed as she moved to the corner of the cockpit, just out of sight.

(Y/N) motioned for Omega to join her. The little girl scrambled over to the elf, pressing herself against (Y/N). The two seemed to hold their breath as the guards searched the ship.

(Y/N) knew the dangers of engaging with the guards. Their goal was to not be seen, causing a ruckus while the mission was already compromised, was not something (Y/N) was willing to do. Plus she had an extra responsibility (Omega).

"Check the hold. Make sure no one's on board." The other guard spoke.

Even without elf ears, (Y/N) knew they were getting close. She scanned for an emergency exit, and spotted the trapdoor underneath the Marauder's console. 

(Y/N) tapped Omega's shoulder slightly, the girl turned her head to (Y/N), the elf pointed at the trapdoor. Luckily, Omega knew what she was referring to, and caught on immediately.

Omega knelt down quietly, and crawled tediously towards the direction of the trapdoor. She very carefully pushed a couple buttons, causing the trapdoor to open slightly with a small hiss. In a situation like this, any noise can cause the pair to get caught. Omega tensed up, looking at (Y/N) for help. (Y/N) nodded encouragingly to the girl, urging her to hurry up.

Omega opened the trapdoor all the way, and went through, glancing back at (Y/N) beforehand.

Without a second thought, (Y/N) got down on her knees and crawled to the trapdoor. She felt her legs dangle for a second before touching the ledge of the ship. Closing the trapdoor quickly behind her.

(Y/N) jumped down silently into the dirt. Followed by Omega, who (Y/N) caught before she hit the ground too hard. The two ran to the nearest cliff, hiding behind it, out of sight.

The two Zygerrian guards came out from the Marauder.

"The ship is clear. We're returning to base." (Y/N) heard one speak.

The two Zygerrian guards hopped onto their speeder bikes, and zoomed off towards the abandoned town.

(Y/N) brought her com up to her mouth, concern gnawing at her.

"Hunter, do you copy?" 

No response.

"Tech? Echo? Wrecker? Anyone?" She tries again.

Nothing.

"(Y/N)!" Omega worriedly exclaims.

(Y/N) turns to Omega, seeing the young girl looking through her binoculars.

(Y/N) heads to the edge of the cliff, Omega offers her binoculars, but (Y/N) can already see what Omega just saw. In an instant (Y/N) can understand why Omega was worried.

The Bad Batch were alive, thank the Force. But they were in slave collars. Being guarded by Zygerrians. It wasn't that hard to see them considering they didn't exactly fit the description of someone who's been in the old city for a long period of time.

"What do we do?" Omega nervously asks.

(Y/N) turns back to the girl.

"How good are your stealth skills?" She asked.

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"This is not a standard military operation, and seeing as how we've never been tasked with rescuing a child from slave traders before, there is no data I can compare it to." Tech explained, exasperated at his brother.

"We need to signal (Y/N) before their scouts find the girls." Hunter says.

"Except our comms are over there with our weapons." Echo cut in.

The group stared at their gear sitting in a pile just beyond their reach.

When Tech looked up, his sharp eyes widened with surprise as he saw (Y/N) and Omega emerging from the top of a building, moving gracefully and silently.

Tech elbowed Hunter and pointed discreetly at the approaching figures. 

"We don't need a comm to signal her." He observed.

Hunter, Wrecker, and Echo turned their attention to the building, and their expressions shifted from confusion to relief, to worry as they saw the familiar faces.

(Y/N) had noticed Tech's staring and gave him a half-hearted salute to reassure him. She knew that while Tech was concerned for their safety, he also trusted her abilities. It was a silent message that conveyed their well-being, though the tension in Tech's eyes was still visible.

Truth be told, (Y/N) didn't expect Omega's stealth to be too great considering she had just left Kamino for the first time. But luckily Omega was eager enough to learn from someone who was an expert. Therefore she picked up on the idea of stealth quickly.

(Y/N) watched as a more decorated Zygerrian approached her squad. She could hear them arguing about the republic and slavery.

"Come on." Omega urged (Y/N) as she began to climb across the gap on a couple of unstable wires.

"Wait! Omega-"

But it was too late. Omega was already almost halfway to the other side. (Y/N) took a deep breath, and let the Force flow through her mind. Filling her up. Then, she jumped.

She let the Force take control of her body. It flowed through every part of her. She flew many feet in the air, and landed on her feet gracefully without making a sound. 

She turned back in Omega's direction, prepared to help her across, but she found that Omega had already made it to the other side. And the girl was gaping with shock. Her jaw was dropped, and it took everything in (Y/N) not to grin at Omega's expression.

Realizing she'd got distracted, (Y/N) motioned for Omega to crouch down out of sight. Luckily, the girl had actually listened this time.

(Y/N) made eye contact with Echo, signaling the clone to provide more of a distraction so the pair could sneak past without being seen.

"You're lucky we don't have our gear because this would go very differently for you." (Y/N) heard Echo say.

(Y/N) pointed to a ledge that had a pipe connected to it, Omega nodded at her. The two jumped down, landing quietly, then balancing on the pipe. (Y/N) had no problem doing this, Omega however, wobbled a little bit.

The pair came to a halt, watching for guards, then continued. (Y/N) slid down the pipe landing silently, but when Omega hit the ground, she collided with a stone, knocking it off the ledge with a clattering noise.

(Y/N) grabs the girl, and tucked them both behind some debris, praying to the Force that the guards didn't hear them.

She heard The Bad Batch argue with the guards most likely to distract them from coming in the girls' direction.

(Y/N) made her move. Using the Force to jump onto a cage right in front of her, landing silently. She signals for Omega to jump, and she does. (Y/N) caught Omega before she hit the cage with her boots.

The pair dropped down, and (Y/N) looked through the bars of the cage. Inside, she could make out a small Rancor, looking terrified.

"We have to set them free!" Omega whispers.

(Y/N) nods, but before she could unlock the cage, someone grabbed her from behind.

She heard Omega strain and yell to get out of the guard's grasp.

"Let us go!"

"Excuse me! That is not the way to hold a woman!" (Y/N) said boredly.

The Zygerrian guards dropped the girls to the ground.

"Found these two sneaking around." One of the guards told the highly decorated Zygerrian.

"Hey now! Don't jump to conclusions! We weren't sneaking... we were unlocking!" 

(Y/N) waved her hand behind her, using the Force to unlock the cage behind her with an audible click.

She smirked as the Zygerrian guards' eyes widened in horror.

The door to the cage holding the baby Rancor started shaking as the creature began to figure out it was free to go.

"Omega, get up!" (Y/N) yelled at the girl frantically.

The two got up and (Y/N) grabbed the girl and rolled away from the space they were being held at. Just in time too, for the baby Rancor broke out of its cage and trampled the area they just rolled away from.

"Secure the cage!" The highly decorated Zygerrian yelled at the rest.

Blaster fire from the bow and arrow weapons came at the Rancor, who roared in response.

"Stop her! Don't let her get away!"

The Rancor roared again, more anger-filled. It picked up a piece of nearby rubble, and threw it at the guards. Very narrowly missing them.

(Y/N) and Omega ran over to the rest of the Bad Batch.

"A rampaging adolescent Rancor is not the distraction I was anticipating." Tech said.

"Yeah, well... sorry to disappoint." (Y/N) sarcastically responded as she used the Force to get Tech's cuffs and neck brace off.

"That's their problem! We're getting out of here!" Wrecker yelled as he broke free of his chains.

"Echo, get the others free!" (Y/N) commanded.

Echo gave a look of affirmation before using his socket to unlock the restraints of the other prisoners.

(Y/N) saw out of the corner of her eye, Omega made her way over to the Zygerrian child.

"It's okay, Muchi. We're here to take you home." She says.

(Y/N) turned her full attention to Omega and the child. Another Zygerrian pointed frantically at the rampaging Rancor.

"Muchi! Muchi!"  They said.

(Y/N)'s head whipped around to the baby Rancor. The pieces falling into place.

They weren't after a Zygerrian child. They were after a Rancor child.

"Oh, you've gotta be kriffin' me." She groaned.

"What?" Echo asked, worried. 

"Muchi is the Rancor!" Omega piped up.

Echo looked to Omega, then back to (Y/N).

"She's joking right?"

(Y/N) shook her head.

"Gear up, we have to go after Muchi." Hunter tossed Echo's helmet to him.

"If we don't capture her, we don't get our intel from Cid."

(Y/N) was already running ahead as the group followed her. It wasn't that hard to follow, considering the Rancor's path of destruction and wounded Zygerrians.

They stopped at a ledge, as Hunter picked up the traces of the baby Rancor. He gestured into the mountains.

(Y/N)'s ears twitched as she heard Muchi roar in the distance.

"What about them?" Omega asked, referring to the prisoners following the Bad Batch.

"Omega and I will get them to safety. You find Muchi." Echo said.

"Tech, tell them to go to the speeders at the south entrance." (Y/N) says.

Tech turns to the prisoners and starts speaking in Falleen. The group splits up. Echo and Omega with the prisoners, (Y/N), Hunter, Wrecker, and Tech after Muchi.

The squad turns the corner to find the Zygerrian guards doing everything they can to contain Muchi. Using electrical whips, and blaster bolts from their bows. Muchi doesn't seem so keen on the idea, as she starts destroying the guards left and right.

"Looks like she's doing fine on her own." (Y/N) muses as Wrecker lifts his helmet in shock.

Muchi grabs a guard by their legs and bashes them against other soldiers. A blast came from a ruin above the Rancor, trying to trap her in an electrical net. Muchi turns around and runs headfirst in the ruin, knocking the guard down, landing with a thud.

Muchi breathes for a second before turning around and charging at the Bad Batch.

A squawk from behind them could be heard. They turned around and saw a Brezak with a soldier riding it, coming straight in their direction.

"MOVE!!!" (Y/N) yelled.

The Bad Batch ran in all different directions as the creature came down harshly on the sandy ground. They scrambled to get out of the way, and the Brezak knocked Hunter's weapon away, along with knocking Wrecker off to the side. 

(Y/N) was also knocked off to the side into a boulder. The Brezak's wing hit her left shoulder. She cried out, but bit her tongue to cut off her scream. Hot pain flooded her body for a second. White obscured her vision. She could feel her stitches tear, and the blood oozing from her old blaster wound she acquired from the clones.

She's vaguely aware of Tech running to her.

"Are you alright, (Y/N)? What happened?"

Grimacing, she struggled to her feet, her voice strained with the effort of masking her pain. "I'm fine, just an old wound reopening. No need to worry."

Tech's worry deepened as he scanned her bloodied shoulder. "But you're bleeding. We must tend to your wound."

"We gotta stop Muchi and calm her down."

Tech hesitated, torn between his desire to assist and the respect he held for her resilience. "Please, let me help you."

But (Y/N) shook her head, her determination unyielding. 

"I've faced worse. I can handle this. We can worry about this later."

Reluctantly, Tech agreed, knowing that despite her stoic facade, she bore unseen pain with unyielding strength.

(Y/N) pressed a hand to her shoulder as Tech helped her up.

The Zygerrian guard drove his mount towards Muchi, knocking her down into a pile of rubble. He moves his whip in a circular motion above his head. About to strike, then Hunter tackles the guard off his mount. Muchi looks toward Hunter before fleeing.

Hunter is in his battle stance, ready to attack if necessary. The guard gets up angrily and whips his whip around menacingly.

"You're going to pay for this skug!"

"I'll handle him. Go get Muchi!" Hunter told the group.

(Y/N) bolted off to the side in the direction Muchi went in, trusting Hunter's judgment blindly. Wrecker and Tech hot at her heels.

It wasn't long before they reached the baby Rancor. Muchi was busy fighting the Brezak attacking her, seemingly winning. As the flying creature cowered and flew away after multiple attempts at killing Muchi.

(Y/N), Tech and Wrecker froze, trying not to scare Muchi.

"Any ideas how to stop that thing?" Wrecker asked.

(Y/N) turned to Tech.

"Rancors adhere to a social hierarchy." Tech states. 

Muchi roars once again.

"You have to challenge the alpha for authority."

(Y/N) tenses as Muchi begins charging at them.

Wrecker on the other hand, throws down his blaster and says, "Oh, that I can do!"

The giant charges at the Rancor, and the two battle it out. (Y/N) turns to Tech, who had an eyebrow raised at his brother. (Y/N) couldn't help but wince when Wrecker was thrown into a pile of rocks. It felt like hours had passed where (Y/N) would watch Wrecker get beat around. Soon enough, Hunter had joined the pair, taking a spot to (Y/N)'s left to spectate the ongoing fight. And not too long after, Omega and Echo had arrived via speeder bike.

"How long's he been at this?" Echo asked as he and Omega dismounted.

"Too long. He's losing his touch." Tech supplied unhelpfully.

The group could tell both Muchi and Wrecker were getting tired. And (Y/N) this moment to step in.

"Wait! What are you-" Echo began.

"Let her do this." Hunter replied, not taking his eyes off (Y/N).

(Y/N) walked forward carefully. Letting the Force engulf her as Muchi turned around and roared at her. Though (Y/N) was not at the least concerned about this. Despite Wrecker's protests, (Y/N) made her way to Muchi's face. The Rancor looked at her, no longer having hostility in its eyes. (Y/N) smiles, and very gently places her hand onto Muchi's face, projecting her calming presence into the baby Rancor. 

Muchi leans into the Jedi's touch, and slumps down, closing her eyes and falling asleep.

(Y/N) stood up from her crouching position and turned back to her squad.

Wrecker's helmet was off, and his jaw was practically dropped to the floor. Echo and Hunter looked genuinely surprised but pleased. Omega had her eyes filled with amazement and curiosity. Tech's eyes were comically wide, and it took everything in (Y/N) to not giggle at the clone's expressive eyes.

"There we go, she's all yours Hunter." (Y/N) grinned.

Omega stepped forward, smiling.

"Aw. She's kinda cute up close."

Hunter turned his full attention to (Y/N).

"Nice work General."

(Y/N)'s grin faltered, and she hoped no one could tell. But knowing Hunter, he probably could.

Being called General, of something that's no more than a ghost of your past, and a pile of ashes, kind of hurts. More than (Y/N) would like to admit.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Muchi roars softly as the group makes their way to Cid's bar. Omega had asked to ride on top of her, to which Hunter had reluctantly agreed.

"Aw, that's a good Rancor!" Wrecker gushes, petting Muchi on her head.

The squad comes to a halt when a Twi'lek and his guards come out from the bar. 

(Y/N) instantly recognizes the Twi'lek as the infamous Bib Fortuna, Jabba The Hutt's number one advisor. (Y/N) had gone on a couple of missions that involved going to Tatooine or getting involved with the Hutt's.

"Ah!" Fortuna said before cooing in Huttese to Muchi, who seemed to enjoy it.

Suddenly, Cid pushed through the guards impatiently, making eye contact with Hunter and (Y/N).

"See, Bib? All is well... Now about the matter of payment..." Cid insisted.

Fortuna snaps and commands his guards in Huttese to hand over Cid's payments, who eagerly accepts it.

Omega slides off of Muchi's back, and takes a place next to Wrecker.

"Bye Muchi." Wrecker and Omega wave.

Muchi turns back to them, and roars softly and affectionately before turning to follow Fortuna and his guards. (Y/N) finds a small flicker of happiness in herself, watching the heartwarming exchange, which is quickly diminished when Cid speaks.

"Gotta say fellas, I wasn't sure you could pull this job off. Guess having Pretty Face over here helped." Cid said, gesturing to (Y/N).

"You could have told us we were going after a Rancor." Echo sarcastically said.

"Hm. Must've slipped my mind." Cid replied easily.

(Y/N) frowned slightly, she could still feel her blood soaked bandages on her skin from her ripped stitches. She'd have to resew them before they get infected.

"You two, Dark and Broody and Pretty Face. My office." Cid requested.

Hunter and (Y/N) looked at each other, skeptical, but followed Cid without complaint into her office.

Cid closed the blast door behind them and walked over to her table in the middle of her office. (Y/N) and Hunter took to the other side as Cid pushed a button and a hologram of a very familiar bounty hunter appeared.

(Y/N) straightened her back, realizing who this was. Hunter looked at her, concerned.

"Your bounty hunter is Fennec Shand. She's new to the scene but has already proven herself to be cunning and ruthless." Cid explained.

"Who hired her?" Hunter asked.

"Unknown. My sources in the Guild say she's working on a direct commission." Cid answered.

"She was a mercenary, came after-" (Y/N) paused, not wanting to give away any information about herself.

"-Some people towards the end of the Clone Wars, but she wasn't extremely active. But her skill set was very impressive. Hunter, this is bad." (Y/N) finished.

"With someone like her nipping at your heels, you're going to need two things: friends and money." Cid stated while staring curiously at (Y/N).

"And by that I presume mostly money." (Y/N) said.

"Well, we're not exactly swimming in either at the moment." Hunter sighs.

"I guess it's a good thing ya met me then, isn't it?" Cid playfully said.

She tossed a case to Hunter with a couple of credits in it.

"Here's your cut. There's more where that came from... if you're looking for work." 

Hunter met (Y/N)'s eyes, as if waiting for her permission to speak on this delicate subject. 

"We'll think about it." Hunter declared.

Hunter and (Y/N) turned around, about to walk out the door, but Cid's voice stopped them in their tracks.

"It's interesting, a bounty hunter of Fennec's caliber being after you. You fellas must be pretty valuable." 

(Y/N)'s back straightened as she tensed, wanting Cid's next words to be chosen carefully.

"Don't worry. I'm good with secrets."

Chapter Text

The Marauder is quiet. Which is unusual, because (Y/N) is more used to the sounds of Tech's typing, Echo's beeping data files, Hunter's knife twirling, Wrecker's weight lifting, and Crosshair cleaning his rifle.

"Karabast!" 

(Y/N) swore as she sprayed some bacta spray on her wounds. The whole top of her suit was rolled down to her waist, exposing her top half and a discreet view of her bra.

After being flung into the rocks in Old Ord Mantell City, (Y/N)'s wound on her left shoulder had reopened and started bleeding. As she peeled more and more of the bandage off her shoulder, she got a better look at her wound.

The clones that shot her did more damage than she had originally thought.

It had all been a blur at first. One minute she was fighting battle droids, the next, she was fighting her friends. It was only through her nightmares that she had truly lived these events. Every time she closed her eyes, she saw the horrors, having to relive them each time.

Wrecker and Omega had gone out to buy some Mantell Mix. While Hunter, Echo and Tech had gone into Cid's bar for a drink. Leaving (Y/N) the perfect moment to readdress her wounds.

Her ears picked up footsteps coming up in the Marauder. She bit her lip in panic, she didn't fancy having any of the boys seeing her tend to her ugly wound.

"(Y/N)?" A soft voice asked.

"Here." (Y/N)'s voice was strained due to the stinging in her shoulder.

Tech walked into the room and paused. His eyes widened comically at the sight.

"What happened?" He asked, a mixture of surprise and concern evident in his voice.

"Ah, my old wound reopened after being thrown into that stupid rock." (Y/N) said as she dabbed some bacta on her wound, wincing.

"Here, allow me to help." Tech immediately set his datapad aside, taking some more bacta from the first aid kit.

(Y/N) looked away as Tech got up close and examined the wound before disinfecting it.

"This wound would be impossible to bleed as much as it is, unless this was acquired recently." Tech said casually.

"Mhm." (Y/N) agreed.

Her jaw clenched in pain as Tech tended to her shoulder wound. The injury was deep, the blood seeping through the disinfectant wipes as Tech worked diligently to stop the flow.

"How did this happen?" Tech's voice was calm, but there was an underlying concern in his tone as he carefully cleaned the wound.

(Y/N) hesitated for a moment, her gaze flickering away before finally meeting Tech's eyes. 

"I got shot," she admitted reluctantly. "By the clones."

Tech's body tensed involuntarily at her words, his hands momentarily stilling in their task. He knew about Order 66 and how the clones betrayed the Jedi, but he hadn't yet heard about how you had escaped. Anger simmered beneath the surface, though he couldn't quite understand why. 

"The clones?" he echoed, his voice tight with suppressed emotion.

(Y/N) nodded, a grim expression crossing her features. 

"I barely managed to escape. I had to stitch the wound myself on a shuttle I stowed away on."

As Tech finished dressing the wound, he couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for (Y/N) despite the circumstances. Her resilience and bravery were evident. But as he glanced up, his gaze lingered for a moment longer than necessary, his eyes inadvertently tracing the subtle curves of her exposed bra.

Embarrassment flooded through Tech as he realized where his thoughts were drifting. (Y/N) had always been beautiful, but why was he suddenly so aware of it? Was it the vulnerability in her expression, or the way her features softened with pain?

Quickly averting his gaze, Tech cleared his throat awkwardly, hoping to dispel the sudden tension that hung between them. 

"There," he muttered, his voice slightly hoarse. "All done."

(Y/N) offered him a small smile of gratitude, though there was a hint of amusement in her eyes. 

"Thank you, Tech. I appreciate it."

As she stood to leave, Tech couldn't shake the feeling that something had shifted between them, something he couldn't quite put into words. But as he watched (Y/N) walk away, he couldn't deny the newfound admiration stirring within him.

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Turns out the peace didn't last for much longer.

The squad were all asleep besides Tech, who was currently running diagnostics on the Marauder. Hunter had his noise canceling headphones on, it helped dull his senses, especially with Wrecker's rather loud snoring. Echo was asleep as well, having been exhausted from helping repair the ship. And Wrecker... is always ready for sleep. Omega is in the gunner's nest curled up with Lula and her blanket. 

That left (Y/N).

She was in her bunk, sleeping peacefully for about 10 minutes before her nightmares had started. It wasn't uncommon for the Bad Batch to have night terrors, even before the Empire, hers had just gotten...more severe.

In her nightmare, the clones turned on her with merciless precision, their blasters flashing in the darkness as her friends and allies fell one by one. Obi-Wan, Anakin, Ahsoka, Padme, Yoda, Master Plo, and countless others—all tortured and slain before her eyes, their voices echoing in her ears as they accused her of failing to save them. Hearing Crosshair and Omega were the worst of them all.

As (Y/N) screamed in terror, her voice tearing through the silence of the ship, Tech's head snapped up from his work, his heart pounding in his chest. Without a moment's hesitation, he abandoned his datapad and raced to (Y/N)'s bunk, his concern replacing all else.

Careful not to wake the rest of the squad, which he didn't know how they were still asleep, Tech gently shook (Y/N) awake, his hands trembling with urgency. Startled, (Y/N) jolted upright, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she grabbed his arm with a frightened expression on her face.

Tech's heart twisted at the sight of (Y/N) in such distress, his instinct to protect her kicking into overdrive. 

"Hey, hey, it's okay," he murmured soothingly, wrapping his arms around her trembling form. 

"It was just a nightmare."

(Y/N) buried her face in Tech's shoulder, her tears dampening the fabric of his blacks as she struggled to regain her composure. 

"I-I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice choking with emotion. 

Tech shook his head, his grip tightening around (Y/N) in a silent gesture of reassurance.

"You have nothing to apologize for," he insisted, his voice firm yet gentle. 

"We all have nightmares sometimes."

As (Y/N) clung to him, Tech felt a surge of protectiveness wash over him, mingled with a warmth that he couldn't quite explain.

After a couple of minutes of (Y/N) sobbing into Tech's shoulder and him comforting her to the best of his ability, he was about to get up.

"Wait Tech... stay with me?" (Y/N) asked quietly yet desperately.

Tech's mind whirled with confusion as (Y/N) grasped his arm, her request for him to stay catching him off guard. His thoughts raced, his heart pounding with uncertainty, but as he looked into (Y/N)'s eyes, all he saw was vulnerability and a silent plea for comfort.

"Of course," he replied softly, his resolve firm despite the crazy emotions swirling inside him.

Carefully, Tech maneuvered himself into (Y/N)'s cramped bunk, the space barely accommodating them both. But he paid no mind to the discomfort, his focus solely on providing (Y/N) with the comfort she sought.

As they settled beneath the blanket, (Y/N) curled up against Tech's chest, her warmth seeping into his senses like a soothing balm. The fluttering feeling in his stomach intensified, but Tech brushed it aside, attributing it to the lack of sleep.

Gently, Tech ran his hand through (Y/N)'s hair, his light touch comforting as her sniffles as they quieted. In that moment, as the quiet of the night enveloped them, Tech realized before falling asleep that fixing the Marauder was nothing compared to the genuine happiness he felt in (Y/N)'s presence.

As they drifted into a peaceful slumber, wrapped in each other's arms, Tech's last thought was of all people, why was he the one she wanted to comfort her? She hadn't known beforehand he was awake, but soon afterward Tech found himself sleeping peacefully for the first time in a while, as did (Y/N).

And when they woke up the next day and Hunter was already up, Hunter didn't ask any questions. Just raised an eyebrow at Tech.

Chapter Text

The next day, Echo was teaching Omega how to use her new weapon, a bow she stole from the Zygerrians in Old Ord Mantell City. The rest of the Bad Batch sat behind the pair, watching Omega miss her target each time, with growing despair from the young girl. No one had spoken about Tech and (Y/N)'s night before, mainly because the only person who was up before the two was Hunter. 

(Y/N) was getting flustered just thinking about last night.

Then a poor woman came into the bar and was almost shot by Omega. The blaster fire from the bow narrowly avoids the woman and hits the wall beside her. The woman yelled in surprise and ran out of the bar.

(Y/N) winced in sympathy as Omega yelled to the woman:

"Sorry!"

Echo kneeled down to Omega as she pulled the string from her bow back, seemingly struggling with the tension in the string.

"Steady... arms level... and keep your eye on the target." He instructs.

"You can do it, kid!" Bolo, an Ithorian and regular at Cid's bar cheered on Omega.

"Not a chance. Miss! Come on! Miss!" Bolo's friend Ketch, who was a Weequay and a regular at Cid's bar as well, cheered.

(Y/N) threw the two of them a glare, getting them to collectively shut up for just a moment while Omega nervously took her shot at the makeshift target.

While Omega had missed the middle of the target, her shot still landed on one of the outer rings, which admittedly was not great, but a lot better than earlier.

"Ah! I got it!" Omega jumped with joy.

"Bull's-eye! Pay up!" Bolo nudged Ketch while laughing giddily.

Ketch groans in annoyance as he hands his friend the credits he bet.

"Good. Again." Echo told Omega.

"But I've already hit the target three times." Omega exclaimed.

"Out of twelve. That's luck, Omega, not skill." Echo points out.

"In my experience, there's no such thing as luck." (Y/N) said casually, channeling her inner Obi-Wan.

Echo turned to the elf with a raised eyebrow. As if sarcastically asking, 'Because you have the Force on your side?'

"Soldiers need to be consistent. Try again." Echo continued.

Omega sighs, defeated. She pulls back the string of her bow, but not before Ketch starts talking again.

"Okay, double or nothing she chokes." He laughs.

(Y/N) whips her head around to the pair and gives them a disapproving stare, one that Obi-Wan and her always gave Anakin and Ahsoka. Unfortunately, Bolo and Ketch don't get the hint and ignored her.

Omega releases her bolt, but at the same time, accidentally jerks her arms from the power of the bow, sending the bolt flying into a nearby table with a hologram display. (Y/N) winced at the destroyed display. Cid won't be happy about this.

(Y/N) ignores Ketch and Bolo laughing hysterically and turns her attention back to Omega.

"I was doing better until those two showed up." Omega said, partially annoyed.

"You have to learn to tune out distractions, which comes with practice. Again." Echo crossed his arms.

Omega sighed and pulled back the string of her bow once more, before struggling and taking her shot. Sure enough, her shot completely missed and went straight through the ceiling.

"Not exactly a natural, is she?" Wrecker whispered.

(Y/N) glanced at Hunter, then to Wrecker with a puzzled face.

"Hey!" Wrecker boomed, annoyed.

Cid had bumped into the giant to get their attention.

"Okay, playtime's over. We need to talk. You two, scram." Cid turned to Ketch and Bolo and pushed them up from their spots.

"Hey! Okay, we're going."

"We're going!"

Once the pair were out of sight, that only left the Bad Batch in Cid's bar, making the atmosphere all the more serious.

"I assume you guys know what a tactical droid is?" Cid leans on a table with her hand on her hip.

(Y/N) nodded alongside the group.

"They were the operat-" Cid began.

"The operational brains of the Separatist military-" Tech pushed through his brothers to the front.

"Ba-ba-ba-ba-ba. This is my briefing, Goggles." Cid interrupted.

(Y/N) couldn't suppress the urge to roll her eyes at Cid's pettiness.

Cid moved to Wrecker and pushed his leg off the holo-table.

"Hey!" The giant complained.

Cid pushed a button and pulled up a picture of a Separatist Tactical Droid. A type of droid that (Y/N) and her squad had seen too many times to count.

"Tactical droid intel has tremendous value, which is why you're gonna break into this decommissioning facility on Corellia and retrieve one before they're all destroyed." Cid flips the screen to a factory and its interior map.

"Corellia?" (Y/N) asked, a little bit concerned.

Hunter looks at (Y/N), before turning back to Cid.

"We haven't decided if we're gonna work for you or not." Hunter said casually.

"Allow me to decide for you...You're in!" Cid said in a passive aggressive voice.

Hunter looked annoyed and turned to (Y/N) for help.

"I'm talking a mutually beneficial arrangement. You make money, I make money, and I watch your back. With the heat on you, it's the best option you've got." Cid said.

(Y/N) nodded toward Hunter in affirmation.

"Well then I guess we're in." The elf told Cid.

"I know you're in. I just told you you're in." Cid rolled her eyes.

Cid turned her attention to Omega.

"And you, you're releasing too soon because of those weak noodle arms. Build up your strength." 

Cid took the bow from Omega and shot three bolts simultaneously at the target. Each one getting a bulls-eye.

Cid returned the bow to Omega.

"Lesson over."

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

"This old trick?" Echo asked skeptically.

"It gets us past the planetary sensors every time." Tech responded.

The group was in the cockpit of the Marauder, approaching the planet. Omega was in between Tech and Echo's seats going back and forth with the two. Meanwhile (Y/N) was behind Tech with her hand on his pilot seat. Hunter and Wrecker behind her.

"Why is a Tactical Droid more important than the other droids?" Omega asked.

"The more tactical droids fought, the more they learned... and won." Echo turned to look at the girl.

"Yeah, Except against us! Yeah!" Wrecker laughed joyfully.

"With clones now serving the Empire, knowing how to defeat them just went up in value." (Y/N) explained to Omega.

"We're approaching the decommissioning site. We can land at the industrial dockyard and go in on foot." Echo pointed.

Tech landed the Marauder on the dockyard as the group prepared to leave the ship. Hunter had decided to let Omega join them on this mission.

(Y/N)'s shoulder still ached from the night before, but she had to admit, it was definitely feeling much better. Tech had tried to convince her to get some armor to cover her suit, and (Y/N) told him she'd think about it. She liked the feel of her new suit, where she had more mobility.

The door to the Marauder opened and the group disembarked from the ship. Hunter and (Y/N) in the lead, blasters pointed and ready for any potential threats. Even though this place was mostly out of commission, they didn't know how many Imperials or still active droids were hanging around.

As the group ran through the shipyard, they began to see more and more police droids patrolling the area. The group came to a halt behind a large shipping container, just out of sight of the droids. Tech looks through his built-in binoculars for a way of entry.

"Cid didn't mention this place was guarded by police droids." Said Hunter, a slight hint of irritation apparent.

"They're operating on a rotating quadrant scan. If timed correctly, there's an entry point in their blind spot... Follow me." Tech instructed.

(Y/N) trailed behind Tech as he ran to the ladder not far away. Tech moved aside so (Y/N) could climb first.

"Uh-oh." Wrecker said, looking up to where the ladder went.

He groaned anxiously before climbing behind Omega.

(Y/N) made it to the platform first, waiting for Tech and Hunter before opening the door and leading them inside, followed by the rest of the squad.

(Y/N) squints a little bit, with the sudden bright lights of the molten metal with decommissioned droids getting dropped into them. Multiple factory workers were in sight. (Y/N) gestures to the door on her left. The squad lined up so only Wrecker would be in line with the opening door. The blast door shot open, and Wrecker took out a worker in front of him.

(Y/N) and Hunter took the lead, walking silently on the skinny walkway in the middle of hanging droid parts and Liquid Metal. The squad kneeled down to stay out of sight of fellow workers.

"Echo, Tech, Hunter, we'll locate and retrieve the droid. Wrecker, cover us up top." (Y/N) instructed.

"But being the lookout was Crosshair's job." Wrecker complained.

"That wasn't a request, soldier." (Y/N) said with an edge to her voice.

To anyone, those words would sound cold and harsh, but the Bad Batch knew exactly what (Y/N) sounded like when she was worried. They all knew she was worried about Omega being here with them.

"What about me? What should I do?" Omega asked, not noticing the shift in energy in the air.

"Stay here and keep your eyes open for the target. Let's move!" (Y/N) commanded.

She stood up and started towards the nearest ladder, sliding down first, Hunter, Tech, and Echo behind her. She got to the platform and jumped down from there, landing without a noise, the boys right behind her.

As they headed down the stairs, a worker caught them in the act, and Hunter stunned the worker.

(Y/N) and Hunter covered Tech and Echo as they went over to the console. (Y/N) had set her blaster to stun for the sake of the innocent workers here. She and Hunter had their guards up, pointing their blasters in different directions just in case.

Echo inserted his socket into the console while Tech collected intel on his datapad.

"A tactical droid is listed in the system, but only one." Said Echo.

"We only have one shot of this. Let's get it right." Hunter urged.

"Where was the droid off-loaded?" Tech asked Echo.

"North end conveyor." Echo affirmed.

There was a gasp over the comms.

"What is it?" (Y/N) asked urgently.

"Found it...sort of. The droid's already in pieces." Omega says over the comms.

"Is the head intact?" Asked Tech.

"Affirmative- Wait! Someone just ran off with the droid head!" Omega replies.

"Karabast. Of course we're not the only ones after this." (Y/N) muttered.

"I see 'em. One of the workers is stealing our target." Says Wrecker over the comms.

"I'm on it." Omega affirmed, determined.

"Negative! Stay out of sight!" (Y/N) worriedly responds.

The comms went silent, Omega had stopped answering.

"I'm going after her." (Y/N) said.

But then she heard footsteps coming down the stairs behind her. She whirled around and pointed her blasted in the direction of the noise, Tech mirroring her movements.

The worker comes to a halt when they see the amount of blasters pointed at them. They're holding the droid head, and raise their arms in surrender before unmasking themselves. Revealing a youthful dark-skinned woman who honestly didn't look like she should be here.

"Who are you?" (Y/N) demanded.

"Who am I? Who are you?" The woman retorted.

Hunter stepped closer to the woman, his blaster still raised.

"Answer the question." (Y/N) demanded again.

Before the woman could say something, there was a loud bang with the sound of a blaster bolt being shot into a wall. (Y/N), Hunter, Tech, and Echo lowered their blasters to see where the bolt had come from. (Y/N) catches movement in the corner of her eye. Her ears pricked up when she heard a worker yell:

"We've got blaster fire! All eyes on the floor!"

All hell broke loose from there. Smoke was everywhere, there were workers yelling in every direction.

A worker ran past the group before gasping and reached for a control panel in the wall.

"Security breach! Lock it down!" 

He pulled a lever down, and alarms started blaring and workers started running. The giant door in the middle closed, getting rid of the squad's escape route.

"Danger! Danger!" The voice in the alarms rang out.

"Great. How do you plan on getting out of here now?" The woman sarcastically asked.

(Y/N) whipped her head around to the sound of the clatter of police droids.

"We've got police droids closing in! Focus fire on those!" (Y/N) said, not taking her eyes off the direction she heard noise from.

The police droids closed in on the group's location. Taking cover by the stairs and console, the group shot back, while the woman just watched.

"Omega, report." (Y/N) brought the comm to her face, while taking cover with Hunter behind a crate.

"There's a second person after the tactical droid. Don't worry, I'm in pursuit." Omega said confidently.

"No, stay put. We already have the droid head." Hunter answered.

"No you don't!"

The woman ran up the stairs, but before Hunter or (Y/N) could follow her, they were almost shot by the large amount of blaster bolts in their direction.

"I'll get the head. You get this lockdown lifted." Hunter got up.

(Y/N) covered him, allowing Hunter time to climb up the stairs and follow the woman.

Though the blaster bolts didn't let up. More and more droids came closer to (Y/N), Tech, and Echo. A blaster bolt just barely missed (Y/N). She could feel the leftover heat from being in such a close proximity to the bolt.

(Y/N) ducked and rolled to behind the console, where Tech and Echo were, taking a defensive position in the middle of the two.

"I have the droid head!" Omega calls triumphantly over the comms.

"Nice work. Now hang tight." Echo answered.

The clone dropped down to his knees once again and stuck his socket into the console. But instead of lifting the security, the power shut completely off.

"You shorted out the entire system." Tech yelled over the fire.

"I had to override the lockdown. Wrecker, get to the main control panel!" Echo commanded over the comms.

A couple seconds lasted before Wrecker answered the comm. 

"I can't reach the platform!"

"It's the only way to reboot the whole facility! Figure it out!" Echo exclaimed.

Another couple seconds passed.

(Y/N) cried urgently to the giant.

"Wrecker! Hurry!"

(Y/N)'s ears picked up on a loud thunk, followed by a groan somewhere above her.

"Wrecker, what are you waiting for?" Tech yelled urgently.

Suddenly the large main entrance door began to open slowly. Wrecker had finally pulled the switch and deactivated the security protocols.

"Wrecker, the system's online. Now get down here!" Said Tech.

(Y/N) could feel her hands shaking from the sheer amount of times she had pulled the trigger on her blaster. Though she had good enough aim to make Crosshair proud, her grip was still shaky and not used to the uncivilized weapon.

"Someone help! I'm stuck on the conveyor!" Omega's terrified voice rang on the comm.

Without a second thought, (Y/N) replied, "I'm coming, Omega! Tech, Echo, cover me!"

The two covered (Y/N) without a question, knowing the dire situation at hand. But just because the two had taken out the droids, didn't mean there weren't some difficult obstacles in the way. (Y/N) spotted Omega, and her panic increased tenfold when she realized how close Omega was to the molten liquid used to melt droid parts.

(Y/N) was met with a labyrinth of conveyor belts and machinery. Gaps in the walkways forced her to leap from platform to platform, her elven agility allowing her to navigate the precarious area.

But as she drew closer to Omega, she encountered another obstacle: a gap in the walkway too wide to jump across. Undeterred, (Y/N) surveyed her surroundings, her eyes spotting a railing running alongside the conveyor belt.

With a determined nod, (Y/N) leaped onto the railing, her hands gripping the cold metal tightly as she began to climb. Balancing precariously, she edged her way along the narrow rail, her focus unwavering despite the dizzying heights below.

As she neared Omega, (Y/N) could see the young clone's panicked expression as she struggled against the relentless motion of the conveyor belt. Her leg was trapped under a huge piece of metal that would probably leave a bruise.

Omega's terrified eyes found (Y/N)'s face as she continued to weave and jump over droid parts.

"(Y/N)!!!!" Omega screamed, terror evident in her voice.

But it was too late. 

Omega was already going off the edge.

With a surge of panic and determination, (Y/N) reached out with the Force, her hands trembling as she struggled to hold Omega afloat. She knew the risks of revealing her Jedi abilities, especially after Order 66, in front of strangers, but the thought of losing another family member made her forget about that.

As the conveyor belt slid toward the edge, (Y/N) gritted her teeth against the strain, her muscles burning with exertion. The woman who had ran away from them earlier was on the other side on the edge, reaching for Omega's hand desperately. (Y/N) was struggling and could barely keep her concentration as she neared the molten metal as well.

Police droids were converging on (Y/N) with deadly intent. Tears formed in (Y/N)'s eyes as she strained to keep Omega afloat. But out of nowhere Hunter leapt into action, fending off the police droids with unmatched ferocity.

With the protection provided by Hunter, (Y/N) summoned the last reserves of her strength, propelling Omega toward the waiting arms of the woman. As they embraced in relief, (Y/N) felt a surge of gratitude wash over her before turning to face the abyss once more.

With a final burst of energy, (Y/N) summoned the Force to aid her, propelling herself across the gap with a graceful leap. As she landed on the opposite side, she turned to face the bewildered woman.

The woman's eyes widened in disbelief, her gaze flickering between (Y/N) and the Bad Batch as she struggled to comprehend the magnitude of what she had just witnessed. But as the dust settled at least Omega was safely in Hunter's arms.

It was only then did (Y/N) realize there was another woman present. Undoubtedly the two were sisters though, they had an uncanny resemblance to one another.

"(Y/N)!" Omega ran over to the elf.

Omega practically lept into her arms, catching (Y/N) off guard.

"You saved me!" She says tearfully.

"We got you, kid." (Y/N) hugged the girl tighter.

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah. But that was awesome! It was like flying!" Omega said excitedly.

(Y/N) stood up from the embrace with Omega, the young girl now holding her hand.

"Thank you." (Y/N) sighed to the woman.

"You're welcome." She smiled.

Suddenly there was a clunk from above the group, the sister of this droid-stealing woman fell right down in the middle of the group.

"Oh, I'm fine. Don't worry about me or anything. Are we just not going to talk about the freaking Jedi in front of us?!" The sister snarkily remarked.

The sister pointed her blaster in the direction of another droid and shot it twice. She turned back to (Y/N).

"Well, this has been a real treat, but as you can see, the tactical droid is ours."

"Get down!" (Y/N) yelled.

A blaster bolt came in the group's direction, just barely going over their heads as they ducked.

"We can debate this later! If we wanna get out of here, we need to work together!" Hunter pointed his blasters in the direction of the droids.

"Fine! But I still don't like you!" The sister yelled.

"We're kind of used to it at this point." Said (Y/N) as she shot down another droid.

The group of misfits ran in the direction of the giant door, taking cover with Tech and Echo by the console and behind some crates and a pipe. Unfortunately the giant door was where all the police droids were coming from.

"All the exits are blocked. And it's about to get worse."

"You! You're a Jedi, don't you have a laser sword or something to help? Do the magic hand thingy or whatever!" The sister right next to (Y/N) said, panicking.

(Y/N) stopped firing her blaster for a second to look at the sister with a dark expression on her face.

"Oh, you think being a Jedi means I can solve everything with a lightsaber and some hand gestures? In case you haven't noticed, ex-Jedi aren't exactly welcome in this new Galactic Empire!"

The sister looked like she was about to retort before Hunter interrupted her.

"A larger wave of police droids is headed our way." He said sharply.

"We need a diversion." The droid-stealing woman suggested.

"What we need is a diversion." The sister said before turning back to the battle.

"Is there an echo in here?" The droid-stealing woman asked.

"Yes." Echo knelt down to her level.

"What?" The woman asked.

"I'm Echo." The clone introduced.

"Really?"

"Um, glad you're getting to know each other, but we need a distraction now!" (Y/N) interrupted.

(Y/N) was now back-to-back with Tech, trying to hit as many droids as she could.

"What's that thing gonna do?" The sister asked.

The droid-stealing woman was now opening up the tactical droid's head.

"We need an army to get out of this. And we happen to have one." The woman said proudly.

There was a whirring and Tech disappeared from (Y/N)'s side to help the group with the tactical droid.

"If you activate those clankers, they'll start shooting at us." Echo exclaimed.

"Not if we're controlling the droid who's controlling them." The woman smugly responded.

"Excellent idea." Tech comments.

"That should do the trick." The woman states confidently.

The droid beeps, "Cannot transmit." It says before shutting down again.

"It didn't work!" Cried Omega.

"Did you try boosting the signal?" (Y/N) yelled as she ducked from the fire.

"This will boost the signal and help me access the program." Says Tech as he puts two cylinder-like devices on the tactical droid's head, beginning to type on his datapad.

(Y/N) can hear Omega trying to call Wrecker on the comms. She can't help but worry. Something was going on with Wrecker and it scared her. His head was constantly hurting, and (Y/N)'s thoughts instantly went to the so-called inhibitor chips that were supposedly what caused the death of the Jedi Order.

"Brilliant plan, Trace. Really. One of your best!" The sister shouted, at the woman- Trace.

Where had (Y/N) heard that name before?

"We just need a little more time." Trace said.

"We don't exactly have that luxury!" (Y/N) called as she rolled to behind another crate.

Suddenly, there was a loud battle cry from above, and Wrecker came jumping down into the middle of the police droids. Destroying them all completely and smashing them to smithereens. (Y/N) and Hunter held their fire so they wouldn't hit Wrecker.

"Yeah! I got tired of you guys having all the fun!" Wrecker yelled joyfully.

"Now, him I like." The sister said, impressed.

"Tech..." (Y/N)'s eyes widened at the new battalion of police droids heading in their direction.

"Hang on, the data exchange is nearly complete." He responded.

There was a beep.

"Done!"

The tactical droid whirred to life. Trace took the head and held it up to her face.

"What is happening?" The droid asked.

"Activate battle droids. Command them to attack all police droids." Trace instructed.

The droid took a second before responding, "Affirmative."

"New command sequence. Your target is factory security personnel."

All of a sudden, tons of battle droids of all different kinds that Clone Force 99 had beaten in their battles were taking on the police droids without question.

"Never thought I'd see battle droids helping us." Echo commented.

(Y/N) stood up quickly from her position behind the crate.

"That's our cue! Move out!" She commanded.

The group ran in the direction of the door they came through, now unlocked thanks to deactivating the security protocols.

"Mission accomplished." Tech said.

"Nice work." Hunter answered.

"R7, we're ready for a pickup." Omega spoke to the astromech droid over the comms.

The group runs out the escape door only to find more police droids firing at them. (Y/N), quickly covers for Omega and Trace as they try to make it across the hallway. Suddenly there a clang and thud, and Trace yelled out:

"No!"

(Y/N) whirled around to see Trace about to get shot, but before she could, Omega aimed her bow at the droids and hit two of them in front of Trace. Though the tactical droid head couldn't be saved, as it was already blasted out of Trace's hands.

"Yeah!" Omega cheered as she hit another droid.

"Nice shot!" Trace commented at the girl.

"It's all about tuning out distractions." Omega said, referring to Echo's earlier teachings.

(Y/N) ducked as even more incoming fire came in. If she had been able to use her lightsaber, it would've been a bit easier, but she can't risk it.

"He's here, let's go!" The sister yelled to the group as the approaching Marauder came into view.

(Y/N) stopped firing and ran with Tech right behind her. They ran straight into the open hatch, into the safety of their home. The doors closed and the Havoc Marauder flew away from the dangerous droid factory.

(Y/N) holstered her blaster and took a deep breath. The group gathered in their briefing room, with Echo and Wrecker up front helping R7 control the ship.

(Y/N) tried to ignore the sisters watching her every move.

"All that work for nothing." Trace said dejectedly.

"Whoever Cid's buyer is isn't going to be happy." Omega says with a frown.

"Let me get this straight. You knew how dangerous the information on the tactical droid is, but you didn't know who you were giving it to?" The sister pointed to Hunter and (Y/N).

"We're being paid to acquire and deliver, not ask questions." Hunter stated firmly.

"Our contact needed that information to fight back against the Empire. They're trying to help people and make things better." Trace admits.

"Why aren't you fighting for the Empire? Isn't that what you clones do now? Or is it because you have her?" The sister blatantly pointed to (Y/N).

(Y/N) shifted uncomfortably at the change in attention.

"Don't think we would forget about your little trick back in the factory. Who are you?" The sister asked, voice tinged with suspicion.

(Y/N) met Rafa's gaze calmly, her expression unreadable. 

"My identity is not important. What matters is that we succeeded in keeping each other safe."

The sister's skepticism only seemed to deepen at (Y/N)'s response. 

"I beg to differ. We need to know who we're dealing with, especially if she's using the Force like that."

Trace's gaze softened as she observed (Y/N), but the still unnamed sister remained unconvinced.

"And does she make things worse for you? Her being a wanted war criminal?" The sister asked the squad.

(Y/N) visibly flinched at the choice of wording. Much to Tech's surprise and anger at such a rash response from the sister.

Hunter spoke up before (Y/N) could respond. 

"Absolutely not. She is part of our family. She's saved us more times than I can count."

Tech, usually composed and logical, added his perspective. 

"Indeed. She is an invaluable asset to our team. Her selflessness and dedication are unmatched."

Hunter and Tech were careful to keep (Y/N)'s name a secret.

A flicker of emotion passed through Tech's eyes as he spoke, a subtle indication of his true feelings for (Y/N), though he kept them well hidden.

Omega, chimed in eagerly. "You don't understand. She is incredible. She has the biggest heart and always puts others before herself. She's the reason we're all safe."

Trace's expression softened at Omega's heartfelt words, and even the sister seemed to relent slightly in the face of such praise. But the pieces began to click for (Y/N), falling into place when remembering something Ahsoka had told her before the Clone Wars had ended.

As the group approached the docking bay holding the sister's ship, (Y/N) whispered to Tech:

"Did you copy the tactical droid's intel before it got destroyed?" She asked.

Tech looked at her.

"Of course I did. Why, might I ask?"

"I would like to give the data rod to them. It's only fair. Since they came for the intel as well, and saved Omega, and haven't turned me in." (Y/N) answered solemnly.

"Are you sure this is a bright idea?" Tech asked, unsure.

"I have faith in them, as my good friend did." (Y/N) said confidently.

Once the group made the landing, and Rafa and Trace left the ship with Hunter and Omega escorting them, Tech handed over the data rod to (Y/N).

(Y/N) walked out of the Havoc Marauder just as Hunter and Omega were heading back. She made her way past them to the sister's ship. Trace was already inside, but Rafa wasn't.

(Y/N) tapped Rafa's shoulder.

Rafa turned around as (Y/N) held the data rod to her.

"Here." She says.

"What's that?" Rafa asked.

"Tech had a copy of the tactical droid's intel on this rod before it got destroyed." (Y/N) answered.

"Why are you giving it to us?" Rafa questioned suspiciously.

"I know you'll use it for the right reasons... and Ahsoka would've wanted you to have it." (Y/N) smiled sadly at the mention of her friend.

Rafa's eyes widened comically at her words. Confusion etched across her face along with genuine surprise.

"You know Ahsoka?!" Rafa asked, shocked.

"Yes. She was a great friend of mine. Told me all about you guys when she came and saw me at the end of the Clone Wars." (Y/N) said sadly.

Rafa looked down at the data rod as (Y/N) turned away, beginning to walk back to her ship.

"Guess the Jedi really aren't so bad if they have people like Ahsoka and you on their side." Rafa called.

"I really wish that were true... things were... a lot clearer when we had the council for guidance, not war... Back when we had a choice." (Y/N) told Rafa with pure honesty.

"Take it from me. In the end... we all choose sides." Rafa stated firm yet gently.

(Y/N) nodded in agreement.

"Hey, if you ever need any help, you know how to contact us." Rafa said sincerely.

(Y/N) tilted her head and smiled. Thinking of how she now got to choose her own path, away from the Jedi Order. She headed back to the Marauder. To the family she had chosen.