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Chapter Text

Chapter. 1

Pulo Village, Povanaria, Outer Rim Territories. 18BBY

The air is musty. It smells of moss, marsh, and wet mud. The sky is ever constantly covered by heavy clouds and fog, despite the ever-blowing winds. Still, there is some hustle and bustle on the seemingly empty paths of Pulo Village. Several merchants that sell food and water throughout the main street market. Cantinas here and there, one of five star-ship hangers within a several mile radius, a couple of repair shops.

One of which is a droid depot, run and owned by a male Ugnaught named Kell, and his male Abednedo, a ‘somewhat’ partner Ro’ran. Kell being the main shop owner, he manages deals and consults with clients to better the business. Today, Kell talks to a green male Rodian customer who left his R2 astromech to get repairs and regular maintenance for his boss. From what Ro’ran could understand, the Rodian needs the astromech much sooner than originally agreed. Instead of needing it by the end of the week, four rotations from today, he wants it fix by the end of the day.

Sitting close by to Ro’ran with her back turn to him, is a fair skin human female named Anna Tython, with short dark brown hair tied back. She is wearing a dark purple long sleeve shirt rolled up to her elbows, along with tanned overalls stained and tainted with dirt, oil, and grease with matching gloves. She sits on a short stool, wearing a pair of oval shaped goggles over her eyes, as she uses a blowtorch welding a couple of parts together. As she works, the human mechanic does not pay any mind to what Kell and his clients are discussing. Her main focus stays on her work, while Kell speaks to the client, and Ro'ran is moving the large heavier droid parts to display in the front.

"I promise you my good sir," Kell does his best to convince the client. "your droid will be up and running before the sun sets. Trust me, I have the best droid mechanics in the Outer Rim. They'll have your boss's R2 unit in perfect condition." Kell smiles to the Rodian.

In his native language, the Rodian tells Kell that he and his crew better do their job as promised. Otherwise, he and his should consider finding a new line of work. After that, the Rodian leaves Kell to walk back to his speeder and drives off. As soon as the speeder is out of sight, Kell's soft convincing expression quickly changes to frustration as he turns to march right for the garage. Right for the female human sitting with her back towards the open door, as well as the coming Ugnaught.

"HEY, SCAR GIRL!!" Kell yells out loud.

"Woaw, woaw. Kell, might want to lower the volume" Ro'ran says calmly as he stepped in between Kell and Anna.

Anna then stands up calmly and unfazed from Kell's hostility as towards her. She then turns to the Ugnaught, lifting up her goggles showing her whole face covered with sweat and soot from the smoke of welding, as well as the slanted scar across Anna's face. From the left lateral temple, down slashing through her eyebrow, missing the eyelid but starts again through the bridge of the nose, continues slanting down the right cheek midway until slightly jagged up but then continues again downward until the scar finally ends at the right lower jawline. The main reason for Anna's nick name from Kell, but not in a nice way.

"Kell, what's going on? What happened?" Ro'ran asks Kell with his arms out, trying to keep the old Ugnaught at bay. 

"I'm about lose a client, that's what!" Kell yells again. "The boss of the Rodian, he wants his Astromech fixed and cleaned by the end of the day. Or I'm out of business. And if I'm out business, so are both of you. But you, Scar Girl." Kell turns his attention to the female human. "You especially. I knew you were a bad omen the first time I first saw you. If it wern't for Ro, that frog boyfriend of yours, and you wicked charms. I should've kicked you to the curb instead-"

"Hey, enough!" Ro yells back at Kell. "Kell, what did the Rodian say?" He asks in a calm manner.

"He wants the astromech by the end of the day!" Said Kell through his frustration. "His boss is in need for the mech to be fixed and perfectly functioning by tonight, because it's a gift".

"A gift, to whom?" Ro asks curiously.

"It doesn't matter, okay!" Kell snaps. "The droid needs to be fixed by the end of the day, or I can kiss this place good-bye."

"Then, let's get to work." Anna says suddenly in a cold blunt tone.

"Hey, if you-" Kell begins to talk.

"She's right, Kell." Said Ro, cutting off Kell before he started to insult Anna. "We need to get work now, if we have a chance to get it done by the time the Rodian gets back. We've already got the main parts and even got half the mech fixed so far."

"So, let's finish the job." Anna says in her cold tone.

Without further argument and delay, both Ro'ran and Anna both get down to work on the astromech.

For most of the day, Anna and Ro have been working non-stop on the clients droid R2-M7. While Kell does his usual part by just mining the front and counting the credits, as a way to keep himself calm and sane while the other two do all the work.

When the droid was first brought to the repair shop, Em-Seven was already a perfectly functioning droid. Basically, right off the assembly line. But, an accident occurred with Em-Seven got caught in the middle of it and got ruined. The Rodian is a long-time client of Kell, and so brought R2-M7 to the droid depot repair shop to fix it in time for a gathering. But as it turns out, the gathering is being changed to a couple days sooner, and the Rodian needs the droid to be ready. Thankfully enough, Em-Seven was still mostly in one piece as well as his main system core and memory. All Em needed was a new dome head, a pair of ambulatory struts, a full diagnostic scan to see if the systems are functional at factory setting without issues, and even a new spar projector.

For over six hours, R2-M7 has being pulled apart circuit by circuit down to the bolts. Cleaned by both oil bath, and by hand. After everything was done, Ro and Anna pulled together to get Em-Seven back into one piece. By then, the Rodian had returned and Kell was there to greet him. Ro leaves the garage wiping off his hands after he was finished spray paint Em-Seven. While Anna stays to wipe on the last layer of polish on the dome.

Letting out cheerful sounding beeps and whistles, R2-M7 thanked Anna for fixing him up and for the extra modifications.

"You're welcome." Anna replies.

Em-Seven then lets out a few worrying beeps, telling her what if the Rodian doesn't approve. What if he wouldn't want to take him back.

"Then, he doesn't know a good droid if it was right in front of his snout." Anna pointed in a joke.

"Scar Girl!" Kell calls out to Anna.

Anna turns her attention to Em-Seven. "It's time little guy." She says soft and warm as she stands up and the mech follows behind her.

Bringing out R2-M7 to the Rodian, Anna instructs the astromech to go through a series of tasks, tests to show that Em-Seven that he still functions perfectly. She had Em use his scomp to plug into computer terminals, drive both a speeder and a hover carriage while carrying passengers and heavy loads, use its spar projector to hit targets perfectly. As a bonus, Anna added in booster rockets to the struts, so that if Em-Seven gets into rough terrane and can't cross through, he'll be able to fly and hover over with ease.

The Rodian was very pleased to see R2-M7 functioning perfectly. Not just brand new, but better than new. As agreed, he paid the promised amount of credits for the job. As well throwing in an extra thousand credits for the amount of time and effort that was put into on short notice. Altogether, client paid over thirty-five hundred credits for the job. After all was said and done, the Rodian took R2-M7 to his speeder and the two drove off and Kell divided the credits between all three.

"I'll admit it, you've made an impression.'' Said Kell to Anna but came off as something far from pleasant.

Anna glances at Kell, and he just glared at her untrusting as he handed her the cut of the payment in a pouch. Feeling the weight of the pouch, Anna knows it is less that what its supposed to be, but she does not question or argue. She just turned and walks towards her Joben T-85 speeder bike. Anna knew, since the first time they met, Kell has had prejudice towards humans and has never kept it a secret from anyone, especially from her. But he and Ro'ran were in need of help, and through a connection from a local as well as some convincing to Kell. Anna was hired, but it didn't mean she was gonna get more pay so he made Ro his partner to make sure someone can keep watch over her when Kell wasn't around.

Unlike Kell, Ro'ran has had no issues with Anna but more of sympathy from what he can understand from her. How she got her face scar was from the final days of the Clone War, she had just lost her home and her whole family from an unexpected attack. She had lost everything, and she was looking for a way to start over somewhere else. There are somethings that Ro suspects Anna is keeping but doesn't push her about it.

Anna gathers her satchel over her shoulder and preps her speeder bike to start.

"Scar Girl," Kell calls to Anna. "don't forget you're on scrap duty starting tomorrow. So, I want you here at the crack of dawn. No later. Got that?!'

"I'll be here." Anna says blunt.

"Be grateful you have a job at all." Kell pointed as an insult.

"Come on Kell-" Ro tries to intervein.

"Don't make me regret making you my partner, Ro." Kell threatened.

"See you tomorrow." Anna says as she starts her bike and drives away.

As Anna speeds off into the distance, Ro watch her go while Kell goes and finishes closing the shop.

"Tough one she is." Ro'ran says to himself. "But even the strongest of birds have a hard time getting off the ground to reach the sky."

 Anna rides for a long while, even after she rides past the town limits for a few more miles. She finally reaches her destination, her cabin out in middle of the marsh river. It wasn't much in size, but it suited her just fine with a couple moisture vaporators to collect her water, a shack to park her bike inside, and she can get some fish every now and again at the river.

Locking up the shack with her bike, Anna goes to the front door of her cabin after her security system scans her that it's really her and that she's alone. Scan is clear, she walks inside and immediately locks the door behind her as soon as she closes it. turning on the little lantern that sits a little table next to the door, the space inside the cabin is lit showing everything. A makeshift cot bed by next to the door, a small kitchen on the righthand side behind the door, a privy space on the left to wash, clean, and relieve Anna when she needs to. While there is nothing but a single window on the empty wall ahead of the door, just looking out the to the glistening river shinning with crescent moon.

Anna makes herself a small dinner, a pot of Nuna Noodle soup with some vegetables and few spice flavors. She doesn't have much food due to being low on credits to buy anything for a proper meal. So, Anna solely relies on her skills of hunting and fishing she gained from a young age, but big game here in this part of the region is scarce, yet Anna has to make due. She eat half of the soup for dinner, and stores the other half in a container to take for a lunch tomorrow. Anna also packs up the few clothes she has into a sack take with her when she leaves for work in the morning, hoping to have time during her lunch break to get them washed and cleaned at the wash hut.

After cleaning herself and changing into night clothes, Anna sets the alarm on the makeshift clock she made from a mouse droid to wake her over an hour before dawn. She wanted to have time get up and dressed by the time Anna needs to be at repair shop, and Kell being less of a slimo by the time she gets there, hopefully. Anna climbs into her cot, turns off her lantern to get to sleep. Taking several deep breaths, she closes her eyes and Anna lets the thoughts in her mind drift off.

The alarm goes off exactly, but it is not what wakes her.

"NO!!!" Anna screams, springing up into a sitting position as sweat pours down both her face and chest. She beaths heavily, almost as if she was robbed of air and Anna was breathing it back into her.

Turning on her lantern and glancing around, seeing that nothing around her had changed and that it is all the same as she had it. Anna goes over to her sink in the kitchen to turn on the water and washes the sweat away. By the time she feels that all the sweat is gone, Anna looks up into the mirror above the sink and sees herself in the reflection.

Not as the woman that those of Pulo Village, and some Povanaria have seen. She doesn't see herself as Anna Tython, the orphaned scarred woman who survived the Clone War. In her eyes, she is someone else entirely. Someone who faced many challenges and difficulties in her life. Someone who served and fought in the galaxywide conflict in the name of peace, freedom, justice, and unity that brought so many planets and systems divided and fell apart because of the confusion. She was someone who had trained lived most of her life serving and order that was meant be keepers of the peace and defenders of justice. An order, that is now gone, and survivors are named traitors and war criminals, people who are now being hunted down by an Empire ruled by a dictator who serves as a lord of darkness and pure evil.

As Anna looks at herself in the mirror, she looks into the eyes of the woman she once was and most who will never know the real her. When others look into her eyes, some would be fascinated in curious about how someone like her could inherit such eyes. Eyes, that very much resemble the surface of crystal clear ocean or river water. While others question and shun out such people for having such a trait that is strange to them.

To her, these eyes do not belong to Anna Tython. They are the eyes of the one of the wanted peacekeepers of the Galactic Empire. One, who is said to be dead, along with thousands of others who were confirmed by the very unit of Clone Troopers she served alongside with, and who have betrayed her and her fallen mentor. These eyes are not Anna's eyes. They are the eyes of Thianna Or'Tiega, Jedi Sentinel Padawan, and one of the only known surviving member of the fallen Jedi Order.

Chapter Text

(Mind you, you’ll get to learn a little bit of Anna’s backstory, a tease of Galaxy’s Edge food menu, and you will notice a very well-known phrase from Star Wars )

“I’m telling you Kell, this is a bad idea.” Ro’ran warned as he and his Ugnaught boss as the two make their way to the droid repair shop.

“You’re right, Ro’ran. I shouldn’t trust that Scared Face Girl.” Kell replied in a snarl.

“No, I mean you going to those Serolonis-“ Ro tries to talk to Kell.

“Hey!” Kell warned. “What business I have in Safa Toma is mine, and none of yours, and part of the reason why you’re staying here to mind things here at the shop.” Kell tells Ro’ran before turning to face the middle aged Abednedo and waves his hand for him kneel down to Kell’s level. “And like I said. I don’t trust that scar girl.” Kell whispers. “So, I want you to watch her and tell me everything she does. Especially, if she does anything suspicious.”

“Like what?” Ro asks, slightly annoyed.

“That’s what I want you to find out.”

“Come on, Kell.” Ro stands up. “Anna has been working here for months, and she doesn’t earn much compared to you and I. She got that scar at the end of the war, and because of the war, Anna lost her whole family. What reason would that girl have that she would be a problem, when she hasn’t done anything but doing the work you hired her for?” The Abednedo explains as he starts walking towards the shop.

“You really don’t see it do you?”

“See what?”

“For one, she’s human.”

“So?” Ro asks confused.

“And there’s the Empire.” Kell pointed out.

“The Empire?” Ro still confused.

“From what I hear, the Empire is favoring humans more, and pushing other beings to the curb. Acting like they’re better than everyone else, not to mention that I’ve heard that Imperial Governor’s are pretty much in charge of systems they’re stationed at, while native electives don’t get any say at all. ‘Human’ Imperial Governor’s.” Kell explains.

“Okay, you may have a point about the Empire.” Ro’ran agrees. “But still, I don’t believe Anna has anything to do with them. Hell, I don’t even consider her as an Imperial supporter.” He says in defense.

“Scar Girl is human. That is enough to convince me that she can’t be trusted” Kell says aloud.

However, as Kell turns away from Ro’ran to head towards the shop. He is met with the light blue eyes of the human droid mechanic, Anna Tython. Whom is leaning against the seat of her T-85 with both her arms and ankles crossed, unfazed by her employers words. Kell’s expression turns from annoyance to clenching frustration, neither one say anything in retaliation. Anna just leans back against her bike, while Kell just walks over to the garage door and opens the shop.

“You know your job today, Scar Girl?” Kell asks in an insulting manor.

“Scarp duty.” Anna answers in a blunt tone in her voice.

“Which means, you will going through the pile of scraps I picked up from the junk yard, and divining up the good stuff. What scraps are worth selling, and what’s junk. If you find any droids still in one piece, or still has its head attached to its body, don’t do anything until I get back and see for myself that they’ll be worth selling. You got that, Scar Girl?” Kell instructs.

“Got it.” Anna replies in the same tone as she walks and sets her satchel on her work table, covered in tools and mech parts.

“Good.” Said Kell satisfied. “Ro’ran, you’re mining the shop. Talk to costumers, get some sales, new clients when someone comes in, and haggle for deals at the best that’s offered.” Kell instructs Ro as he sets up his work spot. “Most of all,” Kell whispers and gestures for the Abednedo to kneel down to the Ugnaught’s level. “I want to remind you to watch Scar Girl, and let me know what she does while I’m gone.”

“Kell-“ Ro’ran begins to debate.

“Ro.” Kell snaps, cutting off Ro pointing a finger at him. His tone grunting in frustration, almost as a threat.

Ro’ran sighs. “Okay.”

“That’s better.” Kell says satisfied.

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Less than an hour after opening the shop, Kell grabbed his backpack filled with personal stuff and a small satchel hanging from his shoulder. The wrinkled, wild red haired Ugnaught walks over to the near by shipping hanger dock to catch the shuttle heading course for Serolonis. After Kell is gone, Anna gets right to work on the scrap pile that is about five times the size of Jabba The Hutt himself. The human woman rolls up her sleeves, puts on her thick work gloves, and goes right to work.

Over the course of four, going onto five and a half hours, Anna has already sorted four piles from the single large scrap pile. One pile for severed droid heads, mech domes, and torso bodies. One pile for limbs such as arms, leags, and ambulatory struts for Astromechs. One pile just for scraps Anna is keeping within the original pile. Finale, she made a spot for whole droids (well, at least a few whole droids).

Anna has come across a few droids that are very fortunately still in one piece. Five B-1 Battle Droids, two B-2 Super Battle Droids with one missing an arm and the other a leg. A BX-Series Commando Droid with a missing head, a couple of standard Protocol Droids, a Gonk Power Droid, a Dred-Well. There are even three Pit droids, a 2-1B Medical Droid that is missing both its arms, and four Astromechs. Three that are still in one piece, while one R4 series that is mostly of white with a purple and white cone dome head is missing both its struts, middle leg, and majority of the plate panels are all gone.

“Kell maybe an old Slimo, but he does sure knows how to find and get his hands on the good piles. I’ll say that.” Ro’ran complimented.

“That, I’ll have to agree.” Anna replies sarcastic as she wipes away sweat from her face with her gloved hand.

“Hey Anna,” Ro calls to her as he finishes fixes a Protocol Droid. “take a break. You’ve been working none stop since we opened, and you look like you hadn’t gotten much sleep. I can even see dark circles under your eyes.”

“I’m not much for sleep, Ro’ran. So, don’t worry about it.” Anna says reassuring.

“Well,” Ro breathed. “I’d hate to tell Kell that you’re responsible that the shop got burnt down, because the power droid malfunctioned, due to ‘you’ not paying enough attention to turn it off.”

Anna scoffs, turning her attention to the middle aged male Abednedo annoyed.

“Hey,” Said Ro, raising his hands up the level of his head. “Kell told me to keep an eye on you and to make sure you don’t do anything suspicious or reckless.”

“You know those droids only blow up, if someone shoots at them, or use them as a bomb.”

Letting out a sigh breath, Ro walks over to female human and places one of his hands on her shoulder.

“Go take a break,” He says in a stern, but gentle tone as he takes his hand to off of Anna’s shoulder and holds her left hand with her palm up. Taking his other hand to reach inside his pocket, Ro’ran pulls out and places eighty credits in her open hand. “and go get yourself a proper meal, something more than your Nuna Noodle Soup. It’s none negotiable, I don’t want to see you back here for at least an hour or two, and no less.”  He said amused as he turns away. “Oh, and might want to get your clothes washed to. You may work in a droid shop, but you can smell better than fuel, and oil greese.” The Abednedo added with a slight annoyance.

Letting out a short breath of annoyance herself, Anna knew that Ro’ran was right about one thing. She wasn’t gonna have time after work today to wash the few cloths she has, with the pile of scraps she still has to deal, and cleaning the droids after.

 So, Anna goes to her bike, grab the large bag of clothes and heads over to the wash hut down the road. The folks in Pulo Village gather at a cabin station, where the villagers go and do whatever washing they need. Located near a large river, and has a plumbing system that works for three different purposes.

One, is the outside area where those with vehicles, such as bikes, land speeders speeders, or even large animals go and clean off dirt and mud. For the animals, it is also convenient to get their fill of water. Often enough, even for the residents when vender stands don’t have fresh water.

Second, the main cabin area passed the main entrance is where the villagers go to wash either clothes, or even their dishes sometimes. Though Anna has moister vaperators at her cabin, they don’t produce enough water, and she doesn’t have the right equipment to broil enough from the nearby stream to make it clean her dishes or even wash her clothes in her sink at the very least.

Third and final, at the end of the cabin in the back area is the wash area for ‘personal’ use. Those are the more priced ones, and though the villagers have to take the chance to clean themselves elsewhere that less private, or their home that only has a sink as their only source of water. The Bath/Shower area is open only to those who are willing to pay more, especially for hot water. Those like most villagers, including Anna, will only get that privilege if they earn enough to pay for an hour or more for a months wages. Those like Kell, go to the Bath/Shower area at least two or three times every few weeks, while his own place has a both a bath and shower with running hot water.

Anna picked up a small bottle of soap, and walks over to an open area where a family of three Kiffor wash dishes behind Anna. A mother, her baby, and her older daughter that is likely either eight or nine years old. The mother washes their clothes, when she’s finished she hands the wet clothes to the daughter to ring out the water, then puts the wet damp garment into a basket and takes them outside to dry one the lines. As soon as the daughter left, the baby swathed and wrapped on mothers back starts to cry loudly. She stands up to take off the wrap backstrap and begin gently bounce the baby to calm him down as soon as the daughter comes back, then leaves the child wash the other clothes as she takes the baby outside.

Anna was unfazed by the baby’s cries, so she did not complain, nor even given as much as a nasty glance. The baby obviously was getting restless, and needed to go somewhere for the mother to calm him down. She can see just faintly in the reflection of the window, Anna notices the young Kiffor girl is also unfazed by her younger brother’s cries and mainly focusses on her task. However, Anna can also tell that she is also a bit distraught herself but does not interact with the girl. Despite wanting to give a bit of assurance that things will be okay, she can’t bring herself to even utter a word.

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After finishing washing her few clothes, Anna walks over to a nearby vendor stand and picks out what’s called a “Felucian Kefta Garden Spread”. Ro’ran talked about it once, and Anna figured to give it a try, along with the Nuna Noodle Soup will be enough of a meal for the mid-day. She finds a bench to sit on next to the drying hut to wait for her clothes to dry as she eats her food. As she does so, the Kiffor family walks past her with the mother carrying her baby on her back, while also carrying a large basket of clean folded clothes. The young daughter, she walks behind her mother and baby brother as she carries a large sack, likely also filled with clean clothes over her shoulder.

Anna watches them walk away, and a small part of her can’t help but feel guilty for at least offering to help carrying the larger sack, and a slight hint of envy towards the young Kiffor girl. Whatever hardship she and her family are dealing with now, “At least you have a family, kid. Some of us lost that more than once, and didn’t have the chance to know the first.” Says Anna in her mind.

As far back as she can remember, back when Anna Tython was Thianna Or’Tiega, she was an orphan girl. Before she was a Jedi, Thianna was living in an orphanage on Naboo, in the capitol city of Theed. She was found at the front doorstep of the orphanage late one night, a young baby girl that was around six months, wrapped in a blanket, and with only a single parchment note. The note only said “Her name is Thianna Or’Tiega.” No one saw who left the child, there was no one who came to claim the baby girl, and though the authorities did their best, there was no one on Naboo who had or went by the name Or’Tiega.

For the first four years of her life, Thianna had lived at the Bon Tapalo Orphanage, named after one of the few Kings of Naboo who also came from humble beginnings. There, she lived among other children who came and went to and from the orphanage. However, her time there was less than pleasant. Thianna was often teased and picked on by other children, even go as far as ruining her class projects, or tearing up the few somewhat nice clothes she was given as cruel jokes. Anyone who came on Adoption Day’s at the orphanage had not paid any attention, or any mind to Thianna, let alone to consider to adopt her. She was losing hope that she would find a family to be part of, and have no place to call her home.

At the age of four, Thianna was proven to be force sensitive, and it was discovered that the orphanage was a front to also sell some of the children to the black market as slaves. The ones who have been living at the orphanage longer than most are deemed the ‘Unwanted’ by the Head Caretaker of the orphanage. With that, she would pick which children to sell to the highest bidder while posing the transaction as a legal adoption so that it would not attract the attention of authorities, including the Naboo Royal Guards and Police.

When the Head Care taker learned that young Thianna possessed the Force, she thought that the girl would bring in a large amount of credits and her operation would continue to thrive. But when a young male Nautolan Jedi Knight, Kit Fisto, caught wind of the young girl and the danger. The caretakers plan was thwarted, Thianna was saved, and the Jedi Knight brought her back to place that was thought was going to be her permanent home and family. The Jedi Order on Coruscant.

At the Jedi Temple on Coruscant, she was amongst others like her and accepted her as a member of their family. Yet, over some time, Thianna was starting to feel like an outsider. She was having thoughts that began to make her feel differently about the Order. That was, until she was at the age of eight, a Jedi Knight realized her potential and struggle, and he chose her to be his padawan. From that moment on, Thianna had learned many skills from her master, as well as droid repair, piloting star ships and fighters.

With his guidance of teaching and wise aide, Thianna was able discover many things through the force, including healing, finding her familiar and bonding with her. However, her master also taught her to vigilant, and proceed with caution when using the force in other ways that come with great risk or harm without proper training. Training that was yet completed by the time the Clone War started, and even more so when it ended, and everything changed.

Ever since the start of the clone wars, many knights and masters were given great numbers and units of clone troopers to lead in the front lines for the goal to end the fight with the Separatists. A government built by former member of the Old Republic, who wanted to leave the Republic due various reasons that had to do with corruption. What all failed to see, including the Jedi was how far the plague of corruption was spreading. And what prices had be paid for the fighting to finally stop. The biggest one of all, was the people to lose faith in the Jedi, and how thrilled they were when the news of their betrayal, and their assassination attempt of the former Supreme Chancellor, now declared Emperor was enough for the whole galaxy to turn on the guardians of peace justice. When the war was at an end, an Order from Chancellor Palpatine was given to the Clone Troopers called Order 66, to hunt down and destroy all the Jedi Knights, that including her and her master.

Training since she was an eight-year-old girl, Thianna learned much on how to survive, and navigate the galaxy. It is still a miracle to her that she is alive, but with just a face scar, yet still wonders how. Then again, the Jedi teach not to linger on the past, but let go, and move on.

How she survived does not change what happened. The Jedi Order has fallen, the Republic no longer exists, and now there is only the Galactic Empire spreading it’s dark shadow across the stars.

With Thianna being a survivor Jedi Padawan, she must remain hidden and cannot risk being exposed. As far as the rest of the galaxy knows, Thianna Or’Tiega is just one of thousands of Jedi who were executed for treason at the age of twenty-four. Anna Tython, is a twenty-five year old orphan woman who lost her entire family due to the conflicts of the war, with a face scar as proof. That is all that the people in this village on Povanaria, as well as the rest of the galaxy needs to know.

Ever since the night of Order 66, Anna has hardly had a descent nights of sleep without waking up in clod sweat and screaming. Seeing the faces of those who were killed by their fellow clone soldiers, while also struggling on how she survived and lived. Questions Anna has no answers to, and does what she can to not think about them at all and just do what she can to get through the days. Telling herself “Thiaana Or’Tiega is dead. This is your life now, Anna Tython.”

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 When Anna finishes her lunch meal, she collects her dried clothes from the drying hut and returns to the droid shop and gets back to work to sorting out the remaining scrap pile. Anna tries to return the remain credits to Ro’ran, but he refuses to take back the money, even when she promises to pay him back for what she spent. Still, Ro’ran refuses to accept the money and declines her offer to pay him back.

“You need to eat better, and clean up descent just for the heck of it.” The Abednedo laughed as he got back to his own work. Soon enough, Anna does the same and continues to sort out the piles.

Over the course of four more hours, Anna is pretty much done with sorting the scrap piles. Several barrels filled with limbs, over two dozen whole droids with several that are missing limbs, a few crates of heads, and nearly two dozen whole droids. All that remains is just a pile of scrap outside in the back of the garage.

Sorting through the scrap, Anna brings over the first batch of droids to the oil bath to clean them. While the first battle droid soaks in the bath, Anna scrubs some of the limbs by hand at her work desk. The cycle of the oil bath usually take about twenty minutes to a half hour, by the time it is finished Anna is more than half way done with the first barrel of limbs. By the time she moves the first droid out and brings over the next, a native local and regular costumer comes into the garage. A light green/Yellow skinned Povanarian frog-man name Guav.

Guav croaks, greeting both Anna and Ro’ran as he walks right over to the male Abednedo at his work station.

“Hey Guav,” Ro greets the frog-man. “what can I do for you?”

As Guav croaks, discussing his business with Ro’ran, Anna returns to her own work with bringing in the next droid to the oil bath. The 2-1B Medic Surgical Droid, missing both its arms, but still seemed to be intact and may still be functional when fully charged. As she prepares to dunk the droid into the bath, Anna notices its identification number engraved on a plate on its back. “Two – One – Bee – Es – Kay – One.” Anna whispers to herself.

Back when she was an orphan child, Thianna befriend a LEP-Service droid that the orphanage called K1-K0. From the time she began to speak and started reading from a young age, she called the droid ‘Kiko’ because often enough droid ID numbers looked like names. Though she doesn’t know who this droid’s last owner called it, looking at 2-1B-SK1, the last three digits can spell a name depending how one would say it.

“How about, Sky? With an ‘I’?” Anna asked herself rhetorically with a hint of humor. Not really expecting an answer, Anna just chuckled and shrugged her shoulders then lowers ‘Ski’ down into the oil bath.

When Anna returns to her work desk to wash and clean the other droid limb parts in the barrel, Guav leaves the shop croaking and waving to her “See you later, Anna.”

“Have a good-night, Guav.” Anna replies, waving back to the frog-man.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

A few more hours have passed, and Anna if finishing the forth barrel and moving on to the next. Ro’ran walks over Anna as he uses a rag to wipe off grease from his hands.

“Hey Anna, I need to talk to you.” Ro’ran says in usual light but serious tone of voice.

“What is it, Ro?” Anna replies as she lais down a droid arm

“Well, it’s more of asking a favor.” He confesses.

“Again, what is it, Ro?” She asks as she stands up from her stool

“I’m gonna need you to stay here at the shop overnight.” Said Ro’ran.

Anna crosses her arms and looks up to Ro’ran.

“Guav just purchased three PIT droids, and needs to get them working by tomorrow.” Ro’ran explains

“So why doesn’t he do that at his own place?” Anna asks confused

“You know he’s staying over at the hanger bay, that Theelin employer of his, Kahtee. She is having ‘company’ over, and she wants the place empty tonight.” Ro’ran quoted. “She had him purchased those three PIT droids, and wants them working by Market Day in a couple of days.”

“Well, I hope she’s going to reimburse him for the work he’s putting into for her.” Anna points out.

“You and me both, especially how she lost her last droid crew.” Ro agrees. “Though the kid said that she’ll not only do that, but also swore to him that she can also help with his dream goal.”

“Dream goal?” Anna asked confused

“That, you can probably ask him about. But yes, he needs somewhere to work on them. So, I offered to let Guav stay here at the shop overnight and work on the droids. But, under your supervision.” Ro points out.

“Not exactly what was in my job description. Nor it is something Kell would ever agree to.” Anna stated.

“No, but if it includes the kid paying for extra services, and you get some overtime pay-”

“Another thing Kell would never do, even for the extra credits. Especially, if it means paying me more.”

“Let me worry about that. Look, Guav is a good kid, but is often prone to accidents and I just need someone to keep an eye on him, and the shop still standing so that Kell can come back a bit less than his usual self.”

“Ro-“ Anna tries to argue, but Ro’ran cuts her off.

“Look, Anna. Kell wanted me to keep an eye on you, and run this shop. But if something happens to this place when I’m not here, and Kell sees it in ruin, then there’s only one other person to pin the blame on.”

“Seriously? You’re gonna go there?” Anna asks annoyed

“In a way, I’m looking out for you. You do this one favor, I’ll make sure you get the pay, and Kell will never have to know. Thus, less of him yelling at you, and it will have been usual business for the shop.”

Anna does not say anything to retaliate against him, but takes into account what would happen if she declines.

“Is that a ‘yes’ I hoping for?” Ro’ran asked with optimism.

“Is there really much of a choice?” Anna asks rhetorically with a slight annoyance.

“Guav will be back when it’s time to close up shop.” Ro’ran stated. “It will be fine. Despite what Kell thinks about you, I can tell you’re more trustworthy, and responsible. So, I have the most confidence in you that things will be smooth.” Ro assured Anna with confidence.

When Anna was about to protest, a customer comes in and Ro’ran leaves Anna dumbfounded. She wanted to call the Abednedo back, but he completely ignores the human woman as he walks away.

Doing her best to stay composed, Anna crosses her arms and turns back to her work area but lets out a puff of air through her frustration. It’s not so much as watching Guav, and making sure that he doesn't bring the whole place down. But she suspects that Kell may have other means to know what happens around here when he’s gone. Whether Ro tells the Ugnaught or not, Kell may have hidden camera’s in the other places, such as the droid heads he has on display or within the walls. Though she hasn’t used the force since Order 66, Anna has been extremely careful not give too much away that will make the rest of the villagers think otherwise. Even when Ro’ran has been the opposite of Kell towards her, she has met others before that will act friendly until something happens and that person turns on her.

Just like what happened when she was an orphan, she was a position where she didn’t know much, and therefore had no other choice but to trust someone that was suppose to look out for her and others for their best interests. But, the only interests the Head Caretaker was only looking out for were her own, and the children she thought were worthy to find actual homes and families. While others were being sent off world to endure things that children shouldn’t have to, facing darkness in ways that are unimaginable.

The same happened with the Republic senate during the war. Yes, there were those who fought their own way to end it peacefully, as well as trying to give the Jedi some support to end further conflict. But, it was all in vain, and those who stood up for peace, as well for the Jedi were either voted out of office, or were killed and never be heard of again. Now the Jedi are all but extinct, and the ones that are left are either being hunted or are now dead.

With everything and everyone she knew was dead and destroyed, there is only survival, and no one to trust but herself. Anna has no other choice but to do what Ro needs her to do, but if there’s anything she remembers from her Jedi training is that her master taught her to trust her instincts. Right at this moment, Anna’s instincts are telling her this.

“I’ve got a bad feeling about this.” Anna whispers to herself.

I Do hope that whomever is reading My OC story, you are enjoying it or getting interested so far. If you have any comments you want to leave, or have any questions you want to ask, don't hesitate and let me know. 

If you're having trouble pronouncing any words or names, such as Anna's Jedi alias name (the name she had when she was founded at the orphanage with the paper note.) Thianna Or'Tiega. It is The-Anna Or-Tee-Egg-Ah.

I will write and post the next chapter as soon as I can. Until then, take care, and may the force be with you.

Chapter Text

Chapter. 3

(Mind you, there is a reference to Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope by the time you reach the last part of this chapter. Please enjoy, and be sure to follow and leave a comment.)

Kell’s Droid Depot & Repairs, Pulo Village, Povanaria, Outer Rim Territories. 18BBY

The day is soon coming to a close. The local food vender carts have packed up and moved out from the dirt and muddy streets. Some of the local shops and stands start to close up, while one or few taverns remain open for the night servings.

For Kell’s Droid Depot & Repair shop, both Ro’ran and Anna prepare to close up shop as well. While at the same time, they also prepare a couple of spaces for a night in. With Ro allowing the Guav, the native Frogman to stay the night at Kell’s shop, he prepares two separate sleeping areas for both him and Anna for the night.

One is for Guav, a small but yet still spacious storage closet. There he can work on his boss’s PIT droids, while also being out of Anna’s way while she continues working on cleaning the other droid parts. They moved some large boxes out into the garage to make room for the cot Ro set up so Guav can have something to sleep on when he gets tired.

For Anna, Ro sets up another cot by her work desk in the garage. When she decides to call it night, she won’t have to go far, or risk bumping into things and knocking them over to get some sleep. Plus, it’s also close by to the kitchen if and when she decides to cook dinner or breakfast for the two when they get hungry.

To how Ro’ran explained the arrangement to Anna, with Guav in the smaller space, it’s more confined and less likely to cause trouble. Just so long the door is closed, and that the kid doesn’t cause too much of a fuss. Worse case, if the shop is burned down, Anna can just leave the system and never come back if Kell decides to put a bounty on her head. Best case, someone will just forget to restock on the left over Nurf Nuggets Kell has in the fridge. That’ll be the first thing Kell will yell about when he gets back tomorrow.

“There’s some fresh vegetables, and a pack of rice noodles. You can use those and make something with the nuggets when you guys get hungry.” Ro’ran suggested as he brings out the crate of parts for Guav. “Old Joel from the cantina down the way said that a shipment of Nurf Nuggets should be coming tomorrow morning, Kell is suppose to be back by the end of the day. You have until then to replace the nuggets, by then they should be cold enough for him to not notice and we’re both in the clear.”
“We?” Anna questioned.

“You know what I mean.” Ro corrected. “One night here in the shop, you keep Guav company, and out of trouble. He’ll pay the extra credits to us, and you’ll get a really good pay for this favor, as well as finishing the scrap job sooner than what Kell thought. He pays a little more for the done job, on top of the regular pay. Then we’re both free from Kell’s usual self for a little while. Thus, we are in the clear.”

Setting a couple extra blankets at the foot of the cot, Anna sighs out a deep breath praying in her mind that it’ll be easy as Ro’ran is counting on. Doing her best not to stress or over think the situation, but still has to remain vigilant.

Just then a familiar croaking sound comes in through the garage door greeting both Anna and Ro’ran.

“Hey Guav.” Both Anna and Ro greeted the frogman.

“So kid,” Ro begins to speak. “I set up a space for you work and sleep tonight. Come on, I’ll show you where.” He explains as he shows the green and yellow frogman around.

After a while, Ro’ran closes up the shop and locks up the front door. Leaving Anna with Guav alone in the garage, while he works on the three PIT droids. While Anna, continues cleaning the other sorted droids and part barrels.

A couple hours passed by, and soon enough Anna can hear a gurgling, grumbling sound close by. She maybe a galactic fugitive, but it does not take using the force to hear when someone is getting hungry. She can also tell that it’s been a while since Guav had ate something. Like her, Guav’s employer doesn’t pay that much either, but it’s still a little more than what she earns from Kell. Still, it is time for a bit of a dinner break, and whatever is in the kitchen will have to do. Plus, she can pay to replace what is there without Kell noticing.

“Hey, Guav.” Anna calls over to him at Ro’s work station, getting his attention. “Let’s take a break. You hungry?” Anna asks.

Guav croaks yes.

“Alright, let’s see what I make.” She says, setting down her rag and droid leg.

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Much like what Kell pays to Anna, there wasn’t much in his kitchen for decent dinner. Just a carton of leftover Nerf Nuggets, a small package of string noodles, some decent fresh vegetables, and a few small canisters of flavored edible spices.
“Three noodle meals in a row.” Anna thinks to herself. “Well, it’s something better than nothing at all.”

Chopping the nuggets and vegetables, letting the noodles broil in a pot of water, draining the water after they cooked, then adding everything together along with the spices. It’s not like what was served at Dexter Jettster’s diner back on Coruscant, but it’s something remotely close enough to eat and enjoy. A few lessons Anna learned during her early Jedi training years from her master, among other things, including when and how to track and find food and fresh water. However, having food that is already cooked and prepped helps out to.

“Come get it, Guav. Dinner’s ready.” Anna calls out Guav. Soon enough, he steps though the threshold from the garage to the kitchen.

Anna hands him a bowl, and allows him to scoop a portion of the noodle dinner for himself. When he was finished, it was then Anna’s turn to scoop a portion for herself, but noticed that he took a bit more than half. Instead of calling Guav out, Anna just let it go because he must be more famished than she is.

The two ate and drank a little bit in silence, not making any efforts for a conversation. At least Anna wasn’t. Not that she wouldn’t mind, but just did not know what to say to start one. Then again, she can’t risk it.

Guav croaks to her, asking Anna how her days have been? And how working here at the droid shop is like since starting?

“What can I say? It’s something.” Anna answered simply sarcastic.

Guav croaks again, asking the same questions again, but this time with a little more joyful urge. Wanting to know how Anna’s day really was.
“I’ll confess,” Anna breathed, gently pushing her bowl to the side to place her elbow on the table. “there are bad days, and there are tolerable days. Day’s I wish I do not have to deal with on a regular basis.”

Guav croaks, asking if she meant back when she was with her family.

“Yeah,” Anna says under her breath. “back when I thought I actually had a family.”

Confused, Guav asked what Anna meant by what she is saying.

“I honestly don’t want to get too much into it.” Anna stated, straitening up in her chair. “Just that I wish that I have days that are far less than what reality is, but that isn’t how life is. You just have to deal with them, and push though. It’s the only way that’s helping me.”

Guav was about to ask another question, when all of a sudden a sound of dropping metal hit the ground coming from the garage. Both he and Anna stand up from the table to walk through the door way, leading from the kitchen to the garage. They look around, and Guav sees a PIT droid running around, squeaking and chirping as it knocks over a several of barrels of parts, and stacks of panel plates.

“What the hell?” Anna Said Anna shocked.

Uh-oh Guav squealed. The croaks, explaining that he left to droid to charge, but it was in its shutdown mode.

“Worry about the how later, and just catch it before it makes anymore of a mess.” Anna stated. Guav agrees, and the two split up.

Anna goes to one side, and Guav goes to the other. He runs to grab the droid from behind, but the droid eludes the frogman as it ducks and runs under Ro’s work desks and around buckets of metal parts, and hides behind some of the droids placed around the shop. Anna grabs an empty bucket to sneak up on the PIT droid, by slamming the open side on top of the droids head and hold it down to prevent it from running around, or seeing how to get out.

“Guav!” Anna calls him over to her as she is crouched down to keep the droid pinned with the bucket.

Guav rushes over, croaking to her to lift the bucket off. The instant Anna lifts the bucket off the droid, the same instant the droids lends is faced with Guav and he pushes it with his finger. By then, the PIT folds back down to its sleeper mode, and its power is shut off. Guav drops down to his knees, and Anna gently falls on her backside, both sigh in relief. Glad that the PIT didn’t cause too much of a mess, or anything worse to Kell’s shop.

Guav croaks, saying that was a close one.

“No kidding.” Anna replies, moving to sit on her knees. She wipes away some dust from her brow and face, using the sleeve from her shirt that is already stained with dirt and other lubricants. “So, care to explain how that happened.”

Just when Guav opened his mouth about to explain, there were other familiar sounds that arose. Soon enough, the two other DUM droids were also standing and now started to run throughout the garage. Making their squeak, clanking sounds as they did so.

“Not good.” Anna said worried. Guav croaks in agreement. Soon enough, the two stand back up and each went for a droid. “I’ll go for one, you get the other.” Anna instructed, as she pursues the droid heading for the Kitchen.

Guav faces the droid that remained in the garage, chasing it around as it eludes him like the other did. Except this one jumps up onto displays and stacks of crates with more metal pieces, knocking things over and causing them to drop down to the table top and the ground. Causing to make a mess through out the space of the garage. Guav chases the droid hopping after the droid, but his best not to hit anything, or knocking anything else over. The frogman hops on tables, back to the ground, crawls under the tables, goes around displays, and jumps up to and off walls. Doing his best to catch the sly little DUM droid, while also keeping it from running anywhere else that’ll get loose.

Anna Keeps her eyes set on her droid in the kitchen, blocking the door way from there to the garage. It jumps from the table, over to the stove and countertop, over the sink, and jumps again to the top of the refrigerator. Anna goes to reach for it there, but then it escapes her attempt by opening the cabinet above and letting tuple wear of metal containers to fall out. She managed to cover her head and duck down, with the majority hitting her on the back. Just then, Anna hears the droid jump off from the fridge and lands back onto the kitchen table.

“Get over here, you little clanker!” Anna yells aloud, remembering the insult name the clone troopers use to call the Separatists droids.

In that instant, she reach up and out, and grabs hold of the PIT droid. There was a bit of struggle between Anna and the droid with it trying to kick Anna in her abdomen, but it futile with her keeping it at arm’s length with one hand. She then used her other hand to tap the droid lends, causing it to fold and shut down.

“Always go for the off switch.” Anna breathed, letting the sleeper droid drop to the grownd. She then crouches down, picking it up and sets it on the table.

At the same time, Anna hears something else fall down to the ground. She runs back to the garage, there she sees Guav struggling with the other PIT droid. But unnoticed by the frogman, a tall stack of crates are tilting from one side to the other until the stack is about to fall over on top of Guav with his back turned to it.

Without a single thought of hesitation or worry, Anna does the unthinkable, something that will risk her very life. She reaches her hand out, closes her eyes, and uses the force to push the crates back to the other direction away from Guav. Due to his skirmish with the droid, he does not notice Anna’s action and the crates fall over away from him and they hit the center display table, and then drop to the ground. When the crates fall, Guav is distracted by the crash and he losses his grip on the PIT. But fortunately, Anna quickly regains herself and catches the droid before running off too far from her and Guav. He gets back up to his feet and joins with Anna to shut the droid down, by tapping its eye nose lends and let it drop to the ground as it folds down to its sleeper mode.

What seemed like hours, Anna and Guav were able to sit and breath. Guav sits his backside down on the ground, leaning on his hands behind him as he sits up. Anna leans back on her work desk, wiping away sweat from her face. She then sees what mess that she had to make with crates to save Guav from. Fortunately, it isn’t as bad as it would have been, but it didn’t make it any better if Kell comes back and sees his shop like this.

The crate that hit the display table, the condiments of wiring inside not only fell out, the impact also caused all the trays of smaller pieces to fall and scatter all over. The second crate also fell over, as well as the other condiments of metal plates and circuit boards spill over, but thankfully weren’t scattered. However, it did knock over two other barrels of limb parts, and several of the (somewhat) full length droids are lying on the ground, including Sky. Even five of the six Asromech’s Anna hasn’t cleaned yet have fell over to, but weren’t badley damaged (at least not any more than how they came).
Guav croaks, saying that he’s sorry for causing this mess, but didn’t know how or understand why those droids even activated at all while charging in sleeper mode.

“Well, lets get this garage cleaned first and figure that part later.” Anna stated, standing up from her desk to give Guav a hand to get up from the ground.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Though the mess caused by the malfunctioned PITs looked bad, the cleanup didn’t take Guav and Anna as long as it would’ve seemed. Splitting up the chore between the two took a little over two hours. With Anna picking up the barrels of parts, and straightening up the display table in the garage. Guav was put in charge of cleaning the kitchen, by picking up the plates, pots, and pans to put them back up the cabinet above the refrigerator, as well as washing up the dishes that were used for dinner. By the time he was finished with the kitchen, Guav comes back to help Anna with the rest of the garage.

They sort up the scattered items, and packed them back into their fallen crates. Picked up the droids that were knocked down, straightened them, set them to display around the garage. Even hanging some of the limbs, and mechs struts by chains and hooks on the ceiling.

Guav croaks to Anna, apologizing for what happened. It wasn’t his intention to cause trouble, yet somehow bad luck just tends to happen quite often wherever he goes.

“Don’t over think it, Guav.” Anna advised. “Accidents tend to happen to everyone. In this case, those PITs might just may already be faulty malfunctioned droids. It’s been known to happen with both newer, older, and junk. So, don’t beat yourself up about this.”

Guav croaks, suggesting Anna has dealt with this sort of thing before.

“You could say that.” Anna answers as she puts together the last of the display trays on the center table. “A friend I once had, he bought a brand-new service droid right off the assembly line to help him and his elderly parents. But there were multiple issues with the droid, that soon enough became too much to handle and caused accidents that landed him in the hospital more than once.”

Guav gasped in shock, then asked what happened to her friend.
“Well, it was discovered that executives and some employees of the factory were cutting corners to boost profits. Some of which were taking away the built-in safety features, by making a few small tweaks that most wouldn’t notice. But an investigation sought out the cause and put the factory, as well as the ones in charge out of commission and out of business.” Anna explained.

Guav croaks, saying that he’s actually heard about that story. Saying it was the Jedi that found out the factory, executives were supporting Dooku’s cause for the Separatist movement just before the Clone War started. Funding and supplies from the Republic were being cut, and that the malfunctions were the caused by the actions of the corrupted Senate. The factory couldn’t keep up with demands if cuts were being made, and any contingency plans that were being worked wouldn’t due for the long run. What’s worse, is that after the factory was shut down, a lot of people lost their jobs and had most had a hard time finding new work. And during the war, it made it even harder when planets and systems were under siege by conflict.

Guav then added, that though it wasn’t intentional, people pointed the blame towards the Jedi for why those people were struggling to find work after that. He doesn’t understand that part, but from he can tell that from what people said that event is that if the Jedi were trying to prevent any further danger to the public. Then, why couldn’t they have just arrested the people who were involved instead of shutting down a place of business that puts food on their tables, clean water to drink and wash with, or keep a roof over their heads.

Though Guav says that didn’t support the Separatists, he can understand the frustration, and the need to pin the blame on something or someone. Despite the stories he’s heard about Jedi being heroes in the galaxy, how they were during the war didn’t really seem like something the Jedi would do. They led armies to battles, instead of giving aid to those that were in need of help. The Jedi used the force, wielded their lightsabers against those they claimed they were threatening to prevent to restore peace. But just used their weapons and powers to prolong the war, as a way to get a thrill to use them as warriors instead of peacekeepers.

“I’m guessing you’ve had experience with Jedi before?” Anna asked concerned as she sweeps some dirt onto a dustpan.

Guav croaks, confessing that he actually never met a Jedi in his life as he stands up one of the displayed battle droids. He says that he just goes by what he’s heard about in stories from around the town, and what his people talked about. Guav also says that he doesn’t believe everything that was being said about the Jedi, but given what had transpired during the clone war, and the attempt on ‘then’ Chancellor Palpatine life, who is ‘now’ the Emperor. It does stand to reason, that maybe the Jedi were going too far, and that maybe with the Empire with how and where the remaining Jedi are. They can probably use this time to self-reflect on themselves, before they come back.
“You should be careful about what you say.” Anna said with caution. “Besides, I doubt there are any Jedi left in the galaxy anymore.”

Guav says that he doesn’t believe they’re all dead, and adds that not all the Jedi could have been traitors. But if there are still some that are alive, and when they do appear again someday. Maybe by then they’ll learn from their mistakes and be better, and then take on the Empire

As she pours the dirt from her dustpan into a trashcan, Anna decides to change the topic of their talk. Both not wanting to talk anymore about the subject that is part of her secret past, and wondering why it’s important to Guav about the PIT droids.

“So, what’s with you getting these PIT droids for Kahtee?” Anna asks, pointing to the three folded down droids still in their sleeper modes as they sit on Ro’ran’s work desk.

He croaks, Guav says that Kahtee needs a new droid crew to help her around the hanger bay since it is getting a bit much for just the two of them. After Kahtee’s last crew got incinerated due to a different incident he was involved with.

“What incident was that?” Anna asks.

Guav said that it isn’t important, but that he would work hard to prove his worth to Kahtee. When she heard that Kell finally got in some PIT droids in, she tasked Guav to buy and fix them up to become her new crew to work at the hanger. Kahtee said that if he did what he was told, and exceeded her expectations, then she would keep Guav on. He then adds that she may even make him her partner, so they can run the hanger together and make Guav the main mechanic.

Based on what Guav said, it sounds too good to be true, especially coming from someone like Kahtee. Anna has met his Theelin boss at least a couple of times since she’s been on Povanaria for almost a year, and she didn’t strike as someone who wanted or needed a partner to help her hanger. Let alone, give someone like Guav a chance to that position. Anna hopes that she’s wrong about it, cause often too many times she’s hated to be proven right.

“Well, just a hypothetic, Guav.” She pointed out. “If you didn’t work at the hanger with Kahtee, what else would rather do?”

After a moment of silent thinking, Guav croaks. Saying he’d rather fly his own ship across the galaxy, seeing new places, meeting new people. Having adventures, just like pilot pioneers. That’s what he would rather do, the life he’d want to live, far, far away from here.

Though Guav adds in that it’s nothing but just a fantasy he’s had for a long time. The reality of making it happen is farfetched.

“Why is that?” Anna asked.

Guav croaks, answering Anna. Saying first, there aren’t any places on Provanaria, or anywhere in the system to purchase a ship. Anyone with a ship, you’ll have to pay the pilots to take you off world to somewhere either you, or they would know to buy or trade a ship for the right price and no questions asked.

Second, you have to know where to find ship that’s either new, used, or parts at rock bottom prices to buld your own ship. Guav doesn’t know anywhere specific, but has heard rumors about finding someone who might help at the Glavis Ringworld in the Core Region.

Finally, though he’s saved quite a bit of credits, it isn’t enough to pay anyone to take him anywhere off world, let alone buy a ship, or the parts to build one. Unless Guav can find someone who’d be willing to do it free of charge, he is still stuck with the dilemma about buying his own ship, with the cheapest prices he’s heard. For some used, they’ll be sold around twenty-five thousand credits, and for affordable new ship will go for fifty-thousand to seventy-five thousand credits.

To Anna, no doubt those with underworld connections that either stole or bought supplies under legal radars. Then again, with her situation, Anna can’t afford to do many things legally without alerting the Empire of her presence and discover who she is. Still, its information like what Guav has told her that might be of use should she need it.

She thought about asking Guav if Kahtee has said anything about where to go, or whom to talk to on the Glavis station. However, she stops herself, because she felt that she’s asked enough questions and doesn’t want to risk anything further. Though she was intending to know this much, she understands enough to know when to stop until another time. Not just for her sake, but also for Guav’s sake to.

As Thianna, she’s heard of Glavis ringworld from her master during his solo assignments, and has never brought her along since there was no need at the times. Though she should’ve tried to convince him, that way Anna would know where to go, and whom to speak to. At least now she has something to keep in mind just in case.

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After about another hour goes by, and everything has been cleaned, straightened, and neatly sorted out throughout both the shop and kitchen. The three crates that fell over (due to Anna using the force), every condiment, circuit boards, panel plates, wires and cables, and restraining bolts were all put back in their rightful containers.

Anna decided to call it a night for Guav, and send him to bed since it was late. She chose to stay up a little longer to clean one more droid, after she staged the last of the cleaned battle droids. She goes to the kitchen to fill a bucket with water, mixes in a chemical that is gentle with cleaning droids while using water so they wouldn’t rust or corrode. Ashe also grabs a pair of rubber gloves to protect her hands from the chemical water, so that it does not irritate her skin and cause rashes that’ll last for weeks.

Anna then goes back to the garage, grabs the stool from her work station, along with a rag and a cleaning brush and chooses to clean one of the astromechs. An R4 series mech with a cone dome as its head, the color is mostly of white, with just some purple on its head. At least from what Anna can tell, even with all the dirt and mud it’s covered with. The astromech is also missing both ambulatory struts on the sides for balance, as well as the middle leg for it move. It’s also missing almost all of the panel plates that cover the exposed circuitry of the inside.

When Anna first came to Povanaria, she had scraped remains of an astromech that escaped with her after she survived Order 66. R7-D4, who was originally in service to Jedi Master Plo-Koon, but damaged at some point before the Separatist attack on Coruscant and why he wasn’t Master Plo on Cato Neimoidia. Then after she escaped from the clones who declared Thianna dead, she and D4 managed sneak away on a stolen ARC-170 as her light cruiser was being destroyed.

After that, Thianna Or’Tiega changed her name and appearance to Anna Tython, and it was just Anna and D4 for a little while. That was, until he got so badly damaged trying elude bandits. They were fortunate enough to escape, but that skirmish took its toll on the droid. By the time they were out of hyperspace, Anna’s ship was damaged, there was low fuel, and the only planet in range was Povanaria. Anywhere else was too far away to travel sub light, and Anna’s ship was hard enough to operate even with her and R7-D4, but also required a co-pilot, and tail gunner to help better operate.

Anna landed her ship somewhere deep in the swam region, far enough away for anyone to even think to go looking, and hard enough to get to, except her. Using whatever spare parts she had, and did all she could to fix her only companion during that hard and difficult time. There was nothing more Anna could do to help fix, or even save R7-D4. D4 agreed, and allowed Anna to let him go as his power ran out. But before that happened, Anna had to transfer any and all knowledge that was on D4’s memory, by saving it to a data rod before deleting it all. When that was done, and D4 was completely wiped, as his power also depleted entirely. Anna scrapped what she could from the mech, taking it apart piece by piece, and selling them off for credits until she is only left with only both struts and middle leg.

Not really Anna’s fondest memory, taking apart the one companion she had that saw what she had to endure, what she lost, and knew how alone she was in the galaxy. But she did what she had to do get by, no matter how much she hated it. Anna used the money to buy tools and supplies to fix up her cabin, the T-85 speeder bike she needs to get to and from work, while also saving and earning what she can to not only survive, but also buy what fuel she can to fill her ARC-170. On days she isn’t working, Anna spends them either shopping or hunting for food, or fixing up her ship so that she is ready to leave when the time comes.

As Anna scrubs the dirt off the R4 astromech using the scrub brush, a shine starts to come off the droid. She even finds the identification number on it’s back, TK-5-C-25. Given the numbers, Anna couldn’t make out a name to call it.

“Tee, Kay, Five, See, Twenty-five.” Anna whispers to herself.

Not every droid can be given name, most just go by their numbers. It is as close to a name as one can get.

By the time Anna was finished cleaning of Teekay-five, and drying it off from the water substance. She stands up to stretch out her arms and legs, as well as her back and neck before heading to the kitchen to pour the water from the bucket down the drain.

When she was don with that, Anna decided then and there to finally call it a night herself. As she turned off the kitchen light, something very heavy fell over and drops down to the ground. She turns around and sees that it was Teekay-five.

“Sheesh, just how much more will be dropping tonight?” Anna asked herself rhetorically, as she goes over to stand the mech back up. “Okay,” She breathed, straightening the droid up. “how about you stay like this until tomorrow morning, huh? Just stiff, and still until my boss can decide how much you’re worth, alright?” Again, Anna asks rhetorically as she lightly taps the mechs head.

Suddenly, unexpected, lights began turning on and Teekay starts to quiver. Circuits and gears click, the scomp link pops out, as well as other stuff just starts falling out, including the few remaining panel plates all fall off, and Teekay’s head soon enough starts to spin around. As it did, what shocked Anna most was seeing arms pop out and wave around, arms that resembled a C-Series unit astromech, but that the least of Anna’s worries. Now, she needed to turn the mech off, while also trying to avoid getting struck and hit by the arms.

Anna sees a vertical row of three buttons on the right side of the Radar eye. As the head stopped for an instant, she took the chance to press the first top button. It did nothing to make the droid stop from spinning its head, except it started making noise, not like the whistles Anna recall that most modern astromechs make. But this mech was doing the sounds the C-units were known for. So the arms aren’t the only things this astromech is built with, which likely it must be a modified.

Pushing that aside, Anna gets back to task at hand and find a way turn Teekay-five off. The head stops again, and then goes for the bottom button, but gets struck in her forearm by one of its own as it waves out of control. Again, nothing indicating to shutting it off happened, except now turning on the light of its holographic computer, along with scrambled audio. Multiple sounds and voices happening all at once, and Anna can’t catch or understand what they’re saying or figure out what they mean.

Now, she was getting a bit irritated, and there is one more button to try. When the stopped, she goes for the middle button and that finally made everything stop and shut down. The arms dropped down on the sides, the lights stopped flickering, there is only the sound of silence in the air, and the circuitry wasn’t humming.

Anna lets out a breath as she sat down on her stool. She then looks around, and sees that there is no one else around, and can still hear Guav’s snoring coming from the other room.

“What I asked before, I was being rhetorical.” Anna stated in a whisper.

Whipping away sweat off her face with one hand, and using the other sweep strands of hair out of her sight. Anna blinks a couple of times, before she then notices something by her foot that wasn’t there before. A small metallic box that is half the size of her hand, with the colors of green, and a gold imprint shape. She reaches over to pick up the box, and looks at the shape a little closer. Unfortunately, it is too scratched up to really tell exactly what it is, either some sort of crest or a winged animal of some kind. If anything, this box must’ve fallen out of Teekay-five, and why Anna didn’t notice it before.

Using one hand to hold the box from the bottom, and using the other to get a firm grip to lift the top due to the few small dents that made it a bit challenging to open. Anna manages to open the box, and sees a deep crimson-colored crystal shard, with a metal band wrapped around the top end, and hanging by a long chrome chain. Gently lifting the shard by the chain, Anna sees small flickers of light from her desk lamp making the crystal shine. Yet, she notices a sort of faint light from within that didn’t show red. Laying the box down on her lap, Anna gently sets the shard in the palm of her free hand. When she does, the inner glow started to light up a bit brighter, it felt as cool glass, but also pulsed with life. Instantly, she pulled the crystal shard away from her hand and just holds it by the chain.

Though it has been almost a year, Anna knows exactly what Kyber Crystals are like when a force sensitive holds one. But this is unlike any lightsaber crystals Anna has encountered before. However, it does not have any dark side properties.

“Just where did this come from?” Anna asks in a whisper.

From the corner of her eye, Anna notices the light from Teekay-five’s holo computer started to flicker again. Thankfully the head dome wasn’t moving out of control like before, not at all actually. Soon, and image from the computer lends started to appear before Anna. At first it’s just flickering static, nothing really showing.

“Hurry!” A male voice calls out, the audio coming from the mech. “Hurry my dear, we do not have time to lose.”

Soon enough, an image comes into view and it is a droid. But not just any droid, a 2-1B medical droid.

“Hurry, we mustn’t the mistress waiting.” Medic said urgently as he runs somewhere.

The image then flickers with static again. Soon enough it comes back clearly with the 2-1B again, but this time he’s stand with a human woman with fair skin, long hair tied back with a braid, and wearing a cloak robe.

“Sky, you and Teekay must go, and you have to go right now!” the woman urged the droid.

“Sky?” Anna gasped, and then glances over to the armless 2-1B that is currently sitting up right on a wooden box. “No. That couldn’t have been you. Could it?”

“But what about you, Mistress Aelita?” Sky asked worried.

“Just full fill your task, don’t worry about me.” Aelita instructed.

“But, Mistress-“ Sky pleaded.

“Just GO! And may the force be with you.” Aelita cuts Sky off, commanding him to and Teekay to leave her. But wishing them well on their task with the force.

Soon, Sky is out of view, but Aelita is still in view with Teekay-Five. She then stares right back at the droid, smiling, but also looking sad.

“Help her, Tarren Khal. You are her only hope.” Said Aelita to Teekay.

That immediately struck Anna at her heart in shock. The image of Aelita flickered again.

“Help her, Tarren Khal. You are her only hope.” Aelita repeated.

The second time, Anna’s heart is struck with shock. This time, she slips off her stood, drops to her knees while still clutching the chain of the crystal shard tightly in her hand.

“Help her, Tarren Khal. You are her only hope.” Aelita repeated one last time before the image faded away, and Teekay’s power dies down.

Tears begin to pour from Anna’s eyes, flow down her cheek and stain both her shirt and pants. But Anna pays no mind to that. Just the third and final shock that brought back the pain from her memories, the terrors that have been haunting her dreams for almost a year. The name Aelita spoke, Anna knows all to well whom she is referring to. The mentor, who was her guide through most of her life since she was a youngling. The teacher, who taught her everything he knew, everything he gained and passed down to her through his lessons. The man, who not only gave her wisdom or lifted her spirits when she was confused or lost, but also showed her how to fly through life her own way. The one person, whom she considered the closest thing to a father when she was Jedi Padawan, Thianna Or’Tiega. Anna’s Jedi Master, Tarren Khal, Jedi Sentinel and Jedi Shadow.

“Master. . . . . Khal. Tarren.” Anna whispered.

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Elsewhere

In a dark room, hiding in the shadows. A figure watches on a computer screen what is transpiring from inside Kell’s droid repair shop. The scared face human woman, Anna Tython, lost in her shock of what the astromech just showed her unintentionally. The figure sips his beverage before taking a breath.

“Well,” The male figure says under his breath in satisfactory. “this just got very interesting. Though, I do wonder what you will do next, or if you’ll survive this time young one.”

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Thank you for reaching this far into this story. I am sorry for the long wait (dealing with taxes and other personal stuff). Though I think it has become clear to me that I'll be posting a new chapter once a month, due to the fact that I am a slow when it comes to typing my story. But please, do bear with me that the wait will be worth it, and that the next chapter will be better, or just as good as ones before it. Please, do follow, leave kudos, and comments. I would love to know what everyone thinks, if they have questions, or have pointers. Please don't hesitate. Thank you again.

Chapter Text

Chapter. 4

Things are bright. Surrounded by serenity, tranquility, peace. Feeling the soft breeze of the wind, listening the subtle bustles of the nearby leaves and trees, and the clashing waves swaying on the sandy beaches and rocky cliffs. The chirping, and cawing of birds flying the skies above head.

A youngling Jedi Padawan girl, with long flowing hair tied half up by a single braid behind her head. While the lower half is loose and free, letting its waves flow with the wind. Except for one other single braid on the side her head is somewhat still, and is tied together as a single feather  sways at the bottom with the wind. The girl wears dark grey, light tan Jedi attire exposing shoulders, along with dark brown boots and belt. A pair of chrome lightsabers with little gold, and with leather grips, each one hang by her belt on both sides.

The Padawan sits on a flat rock at a spot that looks out the blue sea, as she has her eyes closed, and her hands lay on her knees with palms open. Meditating, and focusing her connections to the force.

“Like the water and the wind, the force is ever flowing.” A man’s deep low voice speaks softly. “It flows all around you, and through you. As you breath in, you draw in the energy of the universe, and release energy as you let it out. Find balance, young padawan for it is the keystone to existence. It is not about extinguishing the dark, or snuffing out the light, but to understand the two and their place alongside each other. Such as the nature of the force.”

“Remember that, Padawan Or’Tiega. Little Bird.” Said the soft voice of the man.

“Yes, Master Khal.” Thianna replies as she gave a small smile.

When she opens her eyes, the serine and pristine atmosphere immediately changes to a rocky land surrounded by smoke and fire. Thianna is no longer a youngling girl meditating at a beach, but a full grown Padawan woman running for her life through a burning desert. Clone Troopers shooting blaster fire at Thianna, but doing her best to dodge them. Sweat pouring down her face, her heart pounding as if it is about to burst out her chest.

As Thianna runs through the smoke, she trips over a piece of derbies and falls onto the ground unable to stop the fall. So soon as she starts to pick herself to keep running, Thianna glances over her shoulder and is faced with a large squad of troopers all pointing their blasters at her. As soon as they started to fire, a silhouette covered in a dark heavy hood robe drops down between Thianna and the Clones, drawing his emerald plasma blade to protect her.

“Tarren!” Thianna screamed, reaching out for her Jedi Mentor but is out of her reach.

In that instant, a flash of white light

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“Anna.” A familiar man’s voice calls out, but it is not her master. “Hey, Anna, wake up!” He calls again, lightly shaking her shoulder.

“No!” Anna yells aloud, her eyes popped open as she props up out of sleep.

“Hey, hey. Calm down, it’s just Guav and I.” Ro’ran reassured holding up both hands as he stands up, giving the scarred human woman space to calm herself. As well as show her that it was all a dream, and that she’s where she’s been the whole time.

Anna looks around, breathing heavily with sweat droplets dripping down her face. She sees that she’s in Kell’s droid shop, and not where her nightmare of a horrible memory took her. Anna sighed with relief, bringing her knee up to let her arm rest as she leans back up against something hard behind her back. Breathing slowly, but calmer as she closes her eyes taking it all in.

“Careful,” Ro warned. “you don’t want Kell to take away all of your pay if you break that droid anymore than it already is.”

Anna looks behind her, and sees that it is the legless R4 astromech unit she cleaned last night. Suddenly, it all came back to her. The droid acting up, the little metal box with the kyber crystal, and the holo message of that woman, Aelita. She then glances around, and sees under the table and finds both the little open metal box, and the chained crimson crystal right beside her and out of sight from both Ro’ran and Guav.

“Kid? Are you okay?” Ro asked awkwardly.

“Yeah,” Anna breathed, looking at both the Abednedo and Povanarian frogman as she reaches carefully for both the box and crystal, trying to stand up without them noticing the two objects.

Guav croaks, asking Anna if she was having bad dream.

“You can say that.” Said Anna. “That’s what I get for sleeping on the ground.” She commented.

“So,” Ro started with a stern and serious tone. “what happened last night.” He asked, but not as a question.

Guav then croaks, explaining that the PIT Droids somehow were activated, and they pretty much wreaked havoc around the shop. He and Anna were able to get a handle on the droids, after some skirmishing, and a little bit of stuff being knocked over.

“Really.” Ro said sarcastic.

Guav assured him that they cleaned up everything, as well as straightened up the whole shop, and tidied up the kitchen. Though, Guav also added that Anna stayed up a little longer to clean up the astromech, but go to bed afterward. But thought that he heard a noise.

“What noise?” Ro asks.

Guav croaks, saying he wasn’t sure since he was half asleep. But sounded like someone talking.

“Anna,” Ro turned to her. “Did something happen? Or did someone come by last night?” He asked.

Anna’s heart skipped. She became nervous, but did her best to stay composed. She couldn’t delay for long, she had to say something convincing to not raise suspicions to the two.

“Well, no. Nobody came last night. However, this droid did somehow have a bit of power surge,” Anna claimed glancing over to the mech, TK-5-C-25. “but the talking part was likely from me.” She added, leaving out the message from Aelita to Anna’s Jedi Master.

“What do you mean?” Ro questioned.

“Well, the droid somehow turned on after I just gave it a little tap saying good night. The mech’s head just lid up, it started spinning, and waving its arms around-“

“Whoa, whoa, arms?” Ro interrupts Anna in confusion. “On a R4 unit?”

“Yes.” Anna answered confused. “They look like arms from a C-Series Units.”

Guav then speaks, saying that’s not possible. R-Unit Astromechs are not built with limb’s like C-Series, especially R4 being the latest models for the last thirty or so years, give or take. Plus, the components and circuitry between the two droid series are so complex, they’re considered non-compatible despite being similar units.

“Well, apparently someone or something made it possible for this one to have arms, and it was giving me quite the fight when I was trying to turn it off. It struck me on my arm.” Anna explains as she lifts the sleeve over her forearm, showing the dark bruise that was left by Teekay-Five.

Ro takes a closer look at Anna’s arm, then looks over to the mech.

“Let’s get a closer look at this mech, huh.” Ro’ran suggested, walking over to the astromech as he pulls out a needle tool to pry off or open panels. “You said in its head?” Ro asked.

Anna nods yes, pulling her shirt sleeve down over her arm. Ro’ran turns away kneeling before the droid to check the head for the panels where the arms might be, while also hoping it doesn’t act up again like before. Not because she is afraid that the Abednedo would get hurt, but fearful that he might stumble upon the message for her master, Tarren Khal. Anna hopes that the droid is completely out of power, so that it’s only her and her alone that knows about it. With Guav, it’s hard to fully know, or be certain than what he really heard last night, despite him saying that he was half asleep and did catch what was being said.

Ro’ran finds the panels on Teekay’s head, then uses his tool to pry open the panels. He manages to do so for the right side of the head, and one of the arms flops out. Anna flinches alittle, but then Ro does the same for the left side, and second arm then also flops out. Thankfully, that is all and nothing else followed. Anna lets out a small sigh of relief.

“Well, that is definitely something you don’t see very often.” Ro said impressed.

Gauv squeaks in awe.

“I agree with you, kid.” Said Ro. “C-Series and R-Series Units, despite both being astromechs, attaching limbs like these to the latest model would be considered impossible. Unless, this mech was already a C-unit, and just converted with parts of an R-unit.”

Guav croaks, saying that he’s heard droids being modified is a common thing. As well as most other things through the galaxy.

“Yes, that is true.” Ro’ran confirms. “Though I’m no expert on the subject, I have heard rumors of very few droid smiths that are capable doing such things.”

To Anna, she’s heard and met some underground and criminal droid smiths before as a Jedi. But from what Ro is describing, it sounds like something she hasn’t heard before, or doesn’t fully understand.

“Well, this is an interesting find, even from what Kell comes across unknowingly.” Ro’ran says sarcastic.

“So, how much would you say this droid would go for?” Anna asks.

“I can’t say for sure, Kell has to check for himself to set a price.” Ro’ran confessed. “But, given the current state, especially missing all its legs. Someone might get this droid for maybe, fifteen hundred credits, more or less.”

To Anna, knowing Kell, he’ll likely charge it more than what it’s worth.

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After checking the droid, Guav gathered his things along with the three PIT’s for his boss Kahtee. Just hoping that he’ll get them working properly so he’ll keep his job, but also that what he told Anna last night about Kahtee making him her partner wasn’t Bantha Fodder.

When Guav left, both Ro’ran kept his word to Anna. He pays her the extra credits for staying at the shop and watch over Guav, and then some extra for the trouble. Just over two-hundred credits. Soon enough, he and Anna open up the shop and go about the first half of their day as usual. Consulting with clients about fixing their droids, selling them parts, or negotiating with Ro to selling droids or their parts for money. Anna continues to cleaning and sorting out the remaining droids, and parts from the scrap pile, while also fixing up a couple droids for the clients.

At the same time, she keeps watch on Teekay-Five. Though Ro said before that any of the scrap droids aren’t going up for sale, at least until Kell gets back from Serolonis and determines how much he’ll charge. Yet at the same time, she also tries to not let it the idea of buying the droid get to her.

That message from that woman Aelita was trying to send to Anna’s Jedi Master, Tarren Khal, it has been circling around in her head since she unintentionally stumbled upon it last night. The mere mention of Anna’s mentor was what put her in a state of shock, and wasn’t sure how long she was like that until she fell asleep up next to the mech. Her mind was split in two. Part of her silently begged the astromech to show her the whole message, to see what the woman was talking about and why she needed Master Khal’s help. However, the other part didn’t want to know, not just because Anna wouldn’t help, but mostly by the fact that Tarren is dead and that it wouldn’t matter.

For all Anna knew, whatever Aelita needed help with. She might’ve sent Teekay and Sky a day too late before Order 66, or it’s probably an old message from who knows how long ago, and the matter is already resolved. Either way, it does not change the fact that Tarren Khal is dead, and is survived by his apprentice, Thianna Or’Tiega, under the alias Anna Tython.

The best thing for Anna right now, is just to let it go, and forget about the message. There is no reason for her to get involved with something her master was dealing with in the past, and thus no expectations for Jedi meddling when their supposed to be dead or be in hiding.

By the time mid-day had come, Ro and Anna were closing up shop to go to lunch. As he was doing so, he notices and a small tool kit laying by a couple tacks of crates, a kit that is unfamiliar to him.

“Hey, Anna.” Ro calls to her. “Don’t forget your tool kit.”

Anna looks to Ro in confusion. “Tool kit?” She asked. “I have mine, right here.” Anna shows her own kit as she’s about to pack it up in her satchel bag.

“Oh,” Ro sighed. “it’s probably Guav’s. The kid must’ve forgotten it.”

“Well, I’ll see about taking it back to him while on lunch.” Anna suggested.

“Good idea.” Ro agrees as he gives the kit to her.

They close up the shop, and then walk over to Joel’s Cantina, own and run by old-middle aged male Nosaurian name Old Joel. The cantina doesn’t look like much, at least from the outside. Inside, the cantina has a few game tables, and at least three holo screens of games showing off world and small groups of people cheering.

Anna and Ro’ran both take their seats at the bar, and Joel takes their orders. For Ro, he’s going for a Smoked Kaadu Pork Ribs, and Moof Juice. For Anna, she orders a Roasted Edorian Salad, and a Moof juice for her as well. She also adds in a small carton of Nerf Nuggets; to replace the ones she used to make the dinner for Guav, and herself the night before.

“Well, hopefully they’ll be here soon.” Joel says doubtful.

“Why, late delivery?” Ro asked.

“Exactly,” Joel confirmed. “I made my order with my contact, and swore that it would arrive today this morning. It’s already my lunch rush, and still nothing.” The Nosaurian explains. “I ordered ten cases of that stuff, and do you know how long standard delivery is taking?” Joel rhetorically. “Too long! Longer than what The Republic was like, and now with Imperial regulations, they don’t see the small things as priority. But still, a little can go a long way.”

“You can say that again, Old Joel!” A customer laughs in a drunken manor.

“Hey, what have I told you bout callin me that?!” Joel protests. Though people call him ‘Old Joel’, it didn’t mean he liked being called Old. “By the way,” Joel then turns back to Ro and Anna.  “you two want to get into today’s bet?”

“What’s the bet?” Ro asks.

“A rematch race on Safa Toma.” Said Joel. “Apparently, yesterday’s racer, TAY-0 got scrapped, and the crew made a bet with Millegi to try to get the sponsor out of debt she has.”

“Well, I don’t know if I call that admirable loyalty, or just plain stupidity.” Ro comments as he drinks his Moof Juice.

“Well, either way, it should be an interesting race. So, what do you say?” Joel asks as he brings over a large glass jar of credits on the counter, half way filled with what looks to be Imperial Currency. “There’s no limit,” Joel points out. “from one Dezicred, to Bescar, valuable crystals, Hutt Currency, even Mon Calamari Flan, and Mandalorian money is all acceptable.”

“Oh, what the Hell.” Ro gives in, dropping in five credits of Durite.

“What about you, Scar Girl?”

“Joel.” Ro looks over to the old Nosaurian

“Okay, I stepped out of line. My apologies, I meant no disrespects.” Joel raises all of his hands in both apologetic and humor. “But come one, seriously, what do you say, kid?”

To Anna, knowing Joel will never leave her alone unless she pays. She thought about just dropping in the crimson crystal she found last night, as a way to be rid of both Joel and it, and her life as a Jedi, but then decides to drop in a single Dezicred instead. It’s worth less than a single credit, but it’s still money with value.

“Pleasure doing business with you.” Joel says with delight.

At least that got the Nosaurian to leave Anna alone. Plus, If that crystal does have more value, it’ll raise unwanted questions that Anna doesn’t have answers for, and doesn’t want any attention to herself. She’s been living on Povanaria for almost a year, and she sees that most of the people here may not seem like much of a threat. There’s no telling what they’ll do once they see something that’ll bring fortune or trouble. Last night with Guav was risky enough for Anna already, she can’t afford to slip up again despite him not seeing anything.

Soon enough, Joel brings out both Anna and Ro’s food. As they’re halfway through their meals, something catches Joel’s attention at the entrance. A pair od shadow figures stand at the thresh hold, with both Ro and Anna’s back turn towards them.

“Hey!” Joel calls out. “That better be my order from Ord Mantell! I’ve been waiting all morning for that.” Joel complained.

“Sorry,” One of the shadows responded in a deep smokey tone.

The voice sent a chill down Anna’s spine, and it brought a memory as Thianna Or’Tiega, to a time she first heard the voice. Amongst the thousands of men Thianna had seen and met, there were few that were very different, even the one who did look like all the rest, yet wasn’t like them. The figure is undoubtedly the Clone Sergeant Leader, CT-9901, aka Hunter of Clone Force 99. Preferably known as, The Bad Batch.

Anna, though felt fear creeping around her whole body, she did her best not to look at them or draw attention. She does her best to stay composed, and unphased by the familiar presents by Hunter.

“We had trouble with pirates in the area-“ Hunter tries to explain the delay.

“Save it.” Joel cut him off as he walks over towards Hunter and the other Trooper with him. “It better all be there.” Joel said in a threatening tone before looking back to Ro’ran and Anna. “I’ll be right back.” Joel says to the crowd. “You two, follow me to the back.” He then instructs Hunter as the three turned to out of view.

“I’ll see you back at the shop.” Anna says, finishing up her salad and juice. She gathers her satchel and walks towards the door.

“Hey,” Ro calls out. “you haven’t decided which racer you’re betting for.” He points out, holding up the data pad.

“I don’t have the best luck, and I still need to give Guav his tool kit back, remember?” Anna reminds Ro.

“Just pick somebody before you go, and I’ll tell you who wins when I see you back at the shop.” Ro suggested.

Anna relents, knowing there wasn’t much time to argue the matter. She walks back to look over the data pad, and she then seeing another familiar clone trooper of Clone Force 99. It’s Tech, CT-9902, racing in TAY-0’s stead. This was definitely becoming a lot for a lunch hour for Anna, but there wasn’t time to stop and question about details. So, she just tapped Tech’s image, entered her name, and left the pad on the bar counter as she left the cantina.

When she left the cantina, Anna slips up the hood of her duster coat and peaks around the corner and sees that though their armor is different. She sees that is in fact Hunter, and ARC-Trooper Echo, CT-1409 is with him to. She then speed walks away before Hunter caught a glimps of Anna.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

As Anna walks through the crowded mudded road from Joel’s Cantina, heading towards the hanger bay where Guav works at, a lot spins around in her mind. Recalling one of the Jedi lessons that were taught to younglings, that the force works in mysterious ways, and that nothing happened by chance, or by accident. The will of the force lives and guides all living things, all that we do.

The last time Anna has heard anything about Clone Force 99, was about several months after Order 66, and after she settled on Povanaria. Four of the five members of Clone Force 99, were charged for treason, and were wanted fugitives of the Empire. But that they were also said to have died during the cataclysmic storm that destroyed the Kaminoian cloning facilities on Kamino.

With Anna’s ARC-170, and the little connection she had with the galactic network. She was able to get little intel on what has cured in the galaxy. After hearing that piece of news, Anna decided to let it all go and go on with life. But after hearing Hunter’s voice at the cantina, she didn’t really know what to do except just leave that place as soon as possible.

By the time she had reached Hanger Three-five, Anna then hears trouble happening inside.  She dashes towards the front entrance door, runs through the dark hallway, and when she reaches the other end, Anna was having Déjà vu. She sees Guav scrambling around to with one of the PIT droids again, along with the pale purple skin female Theelin, with bright long red hair tied in a braid. That is Kahtee, Guav’s boss.

“GET OVER HERE, YOU LITTLE SQUEEKING BUCKET OF BOLTS!” Kahtee screamed as she ran with a net to use to catch the droid.

Guav is practically running in circles, chasing the other PIT around the hanger, and around the docked ship. The modified Omicron-Class Attack shuttle, and personal ship to The Bad Batch, the Marauder. Anna was in awe, as it brought back some memories.

From the corner of her eye, Anna notices a PIT jumping off a large cooling generator from high above and was about to land on her, breaking her out of the distraction with the Marauder. Anna moves quickly to dodge the little clanker, but not enough to let it get away. She reaches out to grab it from behind, though it struggled, Anna is able to get the upper hand and managed to tap its nose lends to shut it down.

As it folds down and drops to the ground, Anna looks over to Guav and sees that he to finally caught the run away droid and taps its lends also. Kahtee on the other hand, was through with the chasing around with the net. The Theelin pulls out her pistol blaster and shoots for the droid, and just runs faster dodging the bolts as best it can. Guav calls out to Kahtee, saying don’t shoot it, but to stun it instead. However, Kahtee wasn’t listening and she continued shooting until both she and the droid were out of sight behind an engine block some crates. Soon enough, the blaster fire stopped, and the PIT droid was no longer squeaking.

“GUAV!” Kahtee yelled.

The frogman flinched with fear, but stood up straight as Kahtee came back out with her blaster in one hand, and the now dead PIT droid being carried in the other. Dirt and mud covered her green jumpsuit and brown boots, as well as a small part on the side of her face. Still, the female Theelin was not happy, not one bit.

“I gave you one more chance to prove yourself to me, and this is what I get?!” Kahtee asked rhetorically.

Guav croaks, trying to explain to Kahtee what had happened.

“Save it!” She yelled. “What did I tell you the next time this sort of thing happens again?!” Kahtee demanded.

Guav croaks as he is about to answer Kahtee’s question, but then she holds up her index finger and thumb outward at him, as away to stop him from speaking. The Theelin then focuses her attention to Anna.

“And just what the hell are you doing here, Scar Girl?!” Kahtee demanded.

“I just came to return Guav’s tool kit.” Anna said simply, and calmly as she pulls out the leather tool pack from her satchel. “He forgot it this morning, after spending the night at the shop working on the PIT droids.”

“Well,” Kahtee snaps at Anna as she snatches the too kit out of her hand. “that explains why these droids malfunctioned. You don’t use your own tools, things either won’t work in your favor and just go haywire. That’s what my father taught me, and this polliwog thought he’d do just fine by fixing them by using my stuff instead. But, look what happens when I act out of the kindness of my heart, I’m surrounded by a disaster” Kahtee says as an insult.

“Or,” She then looks back to Anna. “whomever sold him these droids already knew they were defective, and was just looking for a way to make some quick credits.” Kahtee accuses Anna.

Just when Guav was about to say something, Anna steps up to the long red braided Theelin female.

“Yes,” Anna says in a stern and serious tone. “it’s a possibility that they were already defective. That is how they ended up at the junk yard, and why people call it scraps, or just plain junk.” Anna pointed to Kahtee. “Also, it’s not so much about how well to the tools can do the job, but how well the person using those tools is up for the task. Guav barrowing your tools, it had nothing to do with what happened here. He was trying something new in order to help you out here in the hanger, and hopefully you’ll consider keeping on. Not as a partner, but at least maybe-”

“Whao, whao, who said that I was gonna make him my partner?!” Kahtee asked demandingly, cutting Anna off.

Guav then croaks, explaining what he said to Anna when she asked about the droids, and why he bought and fixing them up. He also admits that he might’ve exaggerated the partner part, but he was really hoping that he was gonna be moving up to next level.

“And what level were you hoping for? Supervisor Mechanic? Aside from me, you’re my only mechanic! Plus, if I’m being honest, not the best one either, and it’s even a miracle that this place still stands. Considering what happened with your float, and why you were kicked out.” Kahtee says as an insult.

Just when Anna was about to ask what Kahtee, the Theelin snaps a look to her. “I’m done with you, Scar Girl! Just get outta here!” She demanded of Anna.

Before she turned away, Anna gives Guav one more apologetic look. He does not say anything, the frogman just simply nodded for her to leave them. This was gonna end badly for him, and all she can do is not interfere with what is about to happen with Guav. Anna then turns and walks away from the two.

As she is about walk into the long corridor, Anna glances back one last time to Guav as he is currently be berated by Kahtee. As well as also looking at the Marauder, she then senses through the force, the two clones approaching the hanger, and fast. It was definitely time for Anna to get out of there, so she quickly dashed down through the corridor heading towards the exit and out to the bustling road paths. However, she did not leave area just yet. Anna hides behind large dumpsters, not far from the entrance but out of sight from anyone going in.

As she kneels down to hide, spotted Hunter and Echo jogging towards the hanger. What she saw before wasn’t wrong, they really did change their armor color, instead of the usual black and red, there are new colors in their stead.

 For Echo, his armor still looked dark, though his flight suits is mostly of white and red, and the kama around his waist is tan rather than black. He still has his droid scomp arm, as well as his regular human arm. So he’s still functioning perfectly, as he was before when she first met him after being brought back from Anaxes.

For Hunter, it’s a variety of more multiple colors, but also missing some pieces as well but are replaced with different ones. Blue for the most part on his pauldrons on his shoulders, the half of his helmet where the white paint of the half human skull use to be. He has a red scarf around his neck, as well as on both forearms, and he still has his vibro knife on his left arm. “Right, his right hand is his dominant hand.” Anna remembers, thinking to herself.

She watches as the two clone troopers’ run towards the hanger entrance, but suddenly stops immediately after Echo goes in. Something caught his attention, he senses something due to his enhanced mutation. Anna stays hidden behind the dumpster, pulling the hood of her coat over her head. Just as Hunter turns in her direction to the dumpsters, Anna immediately gets behind the garbage container completely to get out of his sight. Fear starts to creep up through Anna, sweat starts to drench her brow, and her heart is beating fast. She reaches inside her satchel for her own knife, preparing to defend herself, but hoping that it won’t come it.

The last time she had to fight clones was the night she lost everything, and every night when she’s trying to sleep, they’re trying, or about to kill her. Anna no doubt will overpower Hunter and Echo, should they engage her to do what was ordered by Palpatine with Order 66. Yet, she does not want to fight them, especially Hunter.

“Hunter,” Echo calls out. “come on. We have to get back to Ord Mantell, now!” The cyborg trooper commands.

Hunter did not reply to Echo, there is silence for a long moment. But soon enough, he follows his friend inside the hanger bay entrance. Anna then peak out from her hiding spot as soon as they were both out of sight. By the time she stood up from the behind the dumpster, and walks over to the entrance, she sees the Marauder’s engines start up, and soon it lifts off and rises up into the sky.

She recounts the brief moment as Hunter and Echo were running for the hanger, something was on both of their mind. Tech was a big part of it, as well as the brood of their squad, Wrecker. But also someone else, but couldn’t tell for sure. But Anna got the sense of frustration, and worry from both clones, Hunter mostly.

A memory then comes to Anna’s mind, back during the Clone War, when she was getting to know the squad. Back long before when they were cadets, then became troopers later. Something that no one else knew before, not even her Master.

“You didn’t see me. I didn’t see you.” The memory whispered as Anna watches the Marauder disappear into the clouds of the overcast sky.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Anna made it back to the droid shop just after Ro’ran reopens from the lunch hour, and she even had a carton of the Nerf Nuggets she had ordered from Joel’s Cantina. She picked it up after coming back from Hanger Three-Five, after giving Guav his tool kit back. Anna also told Ro what had happened when she got there, and that Kahtee was far from happy with the droids Guav brought back.

Ro was displeased about the situation, and even feels bad for the frogman having to put up with someone like that Theelin woman. He was however pleased to see that Anna tried to defend him, though it wasn’t her place to get involved.

After that chat, they go about the usual business of the day through the afternoon until it starts to get dark. By then, a familiar curly red haired Ugnaught returns to the shop.

“Well, nice to see the shop still standing while I was gone.” Kell compliments, but not in a nice way.

“Well, we made some pretty good business the last couple of days. As well as Anna sorting out the scrap pile droids and parts.” Ro’ran points out, showing the Ugnaught all the displayed droids, barrels, and the center display table in the middle of the shop.

“Huh.” Kell breathed. “Not bad, Scar Girl. Not bad.”

“Thank you.” Anna says subtly appreciative.

“So, how was Serolonis?” Ro’ran asked. “Did you get any good ‘business’?”

“Let’s. . . . Let’s just say, hopefully Market Day the day after tomorrow will do us better.” Kell answered nervous.

“Kell.” Ro urged.

“Look, I might’ve gotten a little carried away with the Riot Races.” Kell confessed.

“How much?” Ro asked in a more serious tone.

“Look, don’t worry about it. Just be glad you still have place to, and with Market Day, it’ll make up for-“ Kell tries to explain, turning away from Ro and Anna.

“Kell!” Ro demanded, cutting off Kell.

After a moment of tense silence, Kell takes a breath and finally faces Anna and Ro.

“I’m. . . . I’m gonna have to cut back on your pay for a while.”

“How much, and for how long?” Ro’ran asks, preparing for a disappointment.

“At least. . . At least, two-thirds.” Kell said nervous.

“Two-thirds?!” Ro says aloud.

“For about three months, more or less.” Kell adds.

“THREE MONTHS!!!” Both Ro and Anna yell out loud.

“Hey, with Market Day-“ Kell again tries to explain.

“Kell!” Ro cuts him off. “Even with Market Day, that’ll barely be enough to stay open for a few weeks. Let alone three or more months! And with our current pay, we barely make enough as it is on a regular basis. Anna especially!” Ro points out in defense.

“Listen, in my defense. I did her a favor when I hired her on.” Kell points to her. “She had little to no experience with droid repair, despite the skills that frog kid claimed. But I gave her a shot all the same, and she’s been paid fairly.” Kell explains.

“Less than half than what you pay me, and what you take.” Ro points out.

“All the same, I still pay her, she still has a place to work. But I’ll admit, she does good work more so than I care to admit. Which is why I am prepared to make her a good deal, and you as well, for this one time only. And what I am planning to offer at the Market Day, the day after tomorrow.”

“Yeah, and what’s that?” Ro asks unconvinced.

“Simple,” Kell begins with a positive tone in his voice. “all droids and parts half off. From what I normally sell for, I’m willing to drop prices for Market Day, and make this droid depot the best repair shop in town. I’ll even throw in a two for one deal, whatever two droids someone wants, they’ll get’em.”

“And you think this is gonna help you.” Ro asks doubtful.

“Absolutely” Kell said proudly with confidence.

“Kell, that is the dumbest thing you can come up with just keep this place going. And I doubt it’ll benefit Anna and I staying here.” Ro confessed.

“Come on, Ro.” Kell urges Ro’ran to listen. “Look how about I offer the two for one for you guys, right now. Plus, with half the price. Consider it as a gift of appreciation for all that you two do. I’ll even close up tomorrow to give you guys a day off to rest, so we’ll be ready for Market Day for the next.”

“Wow,” Ro’ran said blunt. “you are desperate.” He accuses the Ugnaught.

After a moment to think, Anna looks around and sees TK-5-C-25 standing upright against the center display table. She remembers what Ro told her this morning about how much it ‘might’ go for, depending on what Kell sells it for.

Anna has been working here a while, and knows what Kell would do and how to do it. Though she skeptical, and even perhaps not thinking rationally, and definitely should not do what she is considering. However, despite it all, Anna can’t stop thinking about the message the woman Aelita was sending to her master, Tarren Khal.  This will doubly put a large dent of lose for credits that has taken her a long time to earn, but the crystal is an alternative.

“I’ll go for that astromech, and the 2-1B droid.” Anna says, pointing to the white and purple, legless R4 unit with the cone dome head. As well as the armless Medical Droid.

Both Kell and Ro look to the droid Anna points at. To Kell, he seemed pleased, but for Ro, with worry.

The red curly haired Ugnaught walks over to the medical droid as he pulls out his data pad from his sling bag, then plugs in a cord into Sky to run a diagnostic. It takes him awhile, but after the diagnostic was completed, there was disappointment in his expression.

“Well, it isn’t worth much, even for a medical droid.” Kell admits. “The vocabulator is shot, and it’s memory bank, I can’t even tell you how jumbled up it looks.” He explains. “I’ll sell you it for, two-hundred credits.”

It’s a bit much, but reasonable enough for Anna to handle.

“I’ll take it for that.” Anna agrees with the price.

Without further debate, Kell unplugs his data pad and moves on to check Teekay-Five. After plugging in the pad, Kell ran the diagnostics, and a huge grin streaks across his face.

“Hehe, you really know how to pick’em. Don’t you, Scar Girl.”

“Kell.” Ro says disapproval.

“Sorry, Anna.” Kell corrected himself.

“So, how much?” Anna asked blunt.

“Well, this isn’t just any mech.” Kell said. “This is a work of a true artist, something that is considered legendary even amongst my own people.”

“I looked at the droid this morning, after Anna said that it had a bit of a power surge that put somewhat a fight. It has limbs that were built in C-Series Units. Never seen that sort of thing in a modern R-Series Unit.” Ro explains.

“That’s because despite the similarities between the two units, manufacturers are looking to modernize droids but cutting back on convinces for more tech officiants, and memory space. But this. This has both, as if one of each units had an offspring.” Kell explains in excitement. “Anyone with that sort of talent is hard to find, and it is an insult for their art was found in a trash pile.”

“So how much will you sell it to Anna for, Kell?” Ro asked. “And don’t forget, two for the price of one, and a day off.” The Abednedo reminded the Ugnaught.

That caught Kell off guard. He wants to rethink his offer, but gets an idea.

“Well,” Kell begins as he turns to face Ro’ran and Anna. “given that this practically a one-of-a-kind droid of this sort of making, and it’s condition is just despicable. I’d hate to see it rust away, or be torn apart for parts. However, I do believe Anna will make a great owner for this fine droid. All it needs it just a new set of ambulatory struts, and middle motor leg. As well as a little bit of love.”

“How much, Kell?” Anna asked with slight annoyance.

“For both droids, you’re looking at seventeen-hundred credits.”

“Are you kidding?!” Ro yells out loud.

“Seventeen-hundred credit?” Anna complains.

“Hey, for fifteen-hundred is insulting enough, even for its current state.” Kell points out. “But you can’t beat the price of this kind of droid smith art.”

“Kell, I just have enough the pay for half of what you’re offering. At the very least, at best.” Anna explains.

“Well, unless you have something of value to trade, or someone in mind to cover the other half of the cost. I’m not going any lower than Seventeen-hundred.” Kell says in confidence.

“One-thousand.” Anna offers.

“Seventeen-hundred.”

“Twelve-hundred,” Anna goes higher. “twelve-hundred credits is all I have.”

“Huh,” Kell sighs. “you must really have your sights set on these droids.” He says in admiration. “But no, either you pay, or trade. I’m not dropping the price.”

“Anna, just forget about it.” Ro’ran tries to convince her. “A couple of broken-down droids isn’t worth your hard earn money. Just walk away now, and thank yourself for it later.”

Anna wasn’t lying, she only has over twelve-hundred credits she has saved up. Just enough to pay for fuel for her bike, and little food to get by until she has to hunt or fish. Aside from the kyber crystal, the only other thing of value she has is her speeder bike, but even that she can’t trade. Not unless she plans on sleeping on the muddy roads here in Pulo Village.

“So, what’s it gonna be Scar Girl?” Kell asked in a slight rude tone.

The kyber crystal, it’s the one thing that can cover the cost, and settle this matter. But for some reason, Anna just can’t. She just can’t seem to reach inside her pocket, lift up her arm, or even twitch a finger. It would be the smart thing for Anna to just walk away, and forget about all of this. Let the droids go. Let go of Aelita’s unfinished message. Let go of Master Khal, and this unknown case. The only thing that would make any sense, is to just walk away. Just leave this shop, get on her bike to ride back to her cabin, go to the river to just throw it in, and leave it behind. Let it flow downstream, until it reaches to a larger body of water where it’ll either sink down to the bottom, or be swallowed by a big fish, or a river gator, whatever. The smart thing to do, yes. The right thing, not sure, but likely, no. If this day has given her anything, its reminders of what was, and what can never be. So, she has to let go of the past. It’s nothing, but history that can’t be changed.

Just when Anna was to say ‘No Sale’ to Kell, a croak arose. Saying he’ll pay the second half of what Kell is asking for the droids.

Anna turns around, and sees Guav standing at the door entrance with a pouch in his hands.

“Really?” Kell asks.

Guav croaks yes, saying that he’s over heard the conversation. The price Kell is set for is seventeen-hundred credits, and that Anna has just enough to pay only half. He also points out that either a decent trade, or if someone can cover the second half, then the droids are hers.

“Guav,” Ro spoke. “I heard what happened today at the hanger, and I am sorry that you lost your job. But please, think this through. It’ll be a long while before you can find another job, so don’t spend so much credits for a couple of droids.” Ro’ran tries to convince the green/yellow frogman.

Guav croaks, saying he understands. But, that he also has enough money to help him get by. However, this is something he wants to do, as repayment for what Anna did for him. Standing up for him, and being kind, even if that meant calling out his flaws. Still, this is his way wanting to repay that compassion and kindness. For his people, that is considered a life debt that must be paid with his service to her.

“Guav, I didn’t do that for you to do this-” Anna protested.

“Kindness, life debt, bla,bla.” Kell cuts her off. “You want the droids, or not?” Kell demanded.

Anna wanted to protest, but Guav has made up his mind and he hands over the pouch of credits to the Ugnaught. Kell takes the pouch of credits, and counts up the money inside.

“Yup, eight-hundred and fifty credits are here.” Kell confirms. “Did I mention there’s no refunds, or takebacks?”

“No, you didn’t, you slimo.” Anna thought.

Feeling frustrated, Anna relents. She walks over to her satchel sitting on her work desk and pulls out her pouch of credits as well. She reaches inside, and pulls out a handful of credits as she hands it over to the red headed Ugnaught.

Kell counts the credits, and though Anna senses his disappointment. He can’t hide the fact that it’s the full amount.

“Well,” Kell breathed. “as much as it pains me to let go of this piece of art. I’m gonna have to accept this transaction.”

Guav croaks, reminding Kell that both Anna, and Ro’ran get the day off tomorrow. She can use it to work on the droids.

“That’s right, that was what you said.” Ro confirmed.

Seeing Kell’s face turn red, he knew he couldn’t lie.

“Gah, fine.” Kell grunts.

Anna looks to Guav in shock, and he looks back to her, not in satisfactory, but he a pleading expression in his eyes. There was something else, but it couldn’t be disgusted here.

Before long, both Anna and Guav loaded the two droids into his X-30 landspeeder. Anna grabs both her duster coat, and her satchel as she prepares to leave on her T-85 speederbike.

Guav croaks in whisper to Anna, saying he knows where to find parts to repair the droids. He’ll show her the way tomorrow, but they’ll have to leave at first light because it’s far away.

Anna looks to him suspiciously as he turns away to start his speeder, wondering what he’s doing, or what he’s planning. But she can’t call him out on it, not yet. Anna does not sense anything sinister, but she can’t be too careful.

The two start their speeders, and they soon drive off into the twilight as Kell and Ro prepare to close up the shop.

“Dang Ferric!” Kell cursed.

“What?” Ro asked.

“I should’ve charged more, or just said that it wasn’t for sale and I’d keep it.” Kell made excuses. “If you could’ve seen the scans of that astromech, the circuitry, the details of the engineering and mechanics-“

“Kell,” Ro interrupted. “it’s done. Just let it go.” He said blunt as he locked up the door then turns to walk away.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Joel’s Cantina

Old Joel’s cantina starts to become livelier with the night crowds, especially for a group of five Aqualish swamp hunters. Those who are paid to provide meats from the Swamp Regions of Povanaria, even go as far as the danger zone where the big game usually is. But with it being the off season, hunting anything large has been scarce unless they, or any of the locals get lucky.

Through their roaring growls, they cheer for excitement for the games being shown on the holoscreens. That is, until the leader hears a beeping chime coming from his personal commlink. He pulls himself from the group to head outside to get some silence.

He answers, growling as he asks what the person on the other side what they want.

“I have a job for you, and your crew.” A deep mans voices says in the com.

The Aqualish asks what meat they want brought to the town.

“It’s not that kind of job.” The Man confessed.

The Aqualish then says, unless there’s big game that’s worth his and his men’s time. Then this conversation is over.

“Trust me, you’ll want this job.” The assured the Aqualish.

The Aqualish then asks what job it is.

“Something worth more than hunting livestock, especially how vulnerable, and valuable this target is worth.” The man explained.

The Aqualish then stated that he and his men are swamp hunter’s, not bounty hunter’s.

“Please, why should they have all the fun, and glory? And the kind of money they make. I’d say it’s time for you to step up your game, more than just hunting crocks, and monster fish.” The man taunts.

The leader than asks, what could be so valuable that a bounty hunter can do?

“Well,” The man breathed. “how much would you say a Jedi is worth? Dead, or alive?”

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Okay, I had fun writing this chapter (as well as getting carried away, I didn’t realize it was longer than I did before). It is connected to one of the fun episodes to my favorite Star Wars Animation Series, and I’ve teased about it in Chapter 2. But I also doing my best to make this part of Anna’s story as interesting as possible. It also has some teases a food assortment from Galaxy’s Edge [mind you, I haven’t been there, yet]. Thank you, to all who are reading, are with me as we explore Anna as her journey unfolds. I hope you are enjoying it this far, and be sure to comment and share it. Again, thank you. May the Force be with you.

Chapter Text

Chapter. 5

Swamp Region, Povanaria, Outer Rim Territories. 18BBY

Though it is morning, it is at times hard to tell for sure what time of day it is with the constant overcast of Povanaria. Strong light of the sun still gives enough through the cloud cover for sight and some warmth for the day, it is still hard to say for sure. The only times that it is easy enough to tell is when the sun rises up, and sets down over the horizons to begin and ends the days. During majority of the day, it’s just dull, gray overcast of thick clouds, not being able to see the blue skies and actually feel the warmth of the sun throughout the day. On rare occasions through the nights, just tiny glimpses of the night sky filled with either stars, or the reflected glimmer of the asteroid rings that orbit the planet. It may seem a typical morning, but for Anna, this day is to be different.

When Anna and Guav purchased the two droids, the 2-1B-SK1 medical droid (Sky), and the astromech TK-5-C-25 (Teekay – Five, or Teekay Anna is starting to refer to call the mech for short) from her Ugnaught employer Kell, Guav told her where she can go to salvage parts to fix up the droids, it’s not in town, or at the junk yard. When they got her cabin, he tells her about a Republic ship that crashed deep in the Swamp Region, known as the ‘Danger Zone’, or ‘Death Area’. An area in the swamp where many go, but very few returned that vowed to never go back in all because of all the creatures and monsters live. Predators that were more deadly and fierce, it is considered to be signing your death sentence just thinking about it. Go inside the ‘Danger Zone’, you’re pretty much a dead man.

From everything that’s been said, and what Anna has witnessed from some of the local Swamp Poachers that go to the region to hunt for creatures for their meat, and pelt hides to provide live stock and valued skins to profit for the locals. She questioned Guav about going to that particular area in the Swamp Region, and wonder if this downed Republic ship is really there, or has what she needs. More so, is it even safe at all to attempt to go in or get close?

From what Guav has explained, he actually knows away to get through the Danger Zone safely. He actually used to go there quite a bit since it was close to his family colony were once settled, and after the ship crashed during the first few months of the Clone War, they had to move.

The best way Guav knows how to get the Danger Zone of the Swamp Region, but it is also considered to be the long way. Showing the way on a holomap, Anna and Guav have to drive and navigate through a thick marsh and moss tree forest. It’s said to be tight, no way for large speeders carrying a large party to get through. But for a smaller land speeder and a speeder bike, Anna and Guav will have little to no issues to make it through the forest.

But, considering the trip will take about a couple or more hours to get to the location of the down ship. The pair decide to leave very early in the morning before sunrise to make good time.

Though the sleeping arrangement wasn’t very ideal, with Anna dividing her cabin with just a tarp sheet separating two halves between her and Guav. At least gave Guav some comfort, but also gave Anna a chance to keep an eye on him. Though she doesn’t really think Guav is intentionally trying to put her in harm’s way, she can’t help but be cautious and vigilant, just as she was trained by her Master. Anna didn’t sleep much that night, due to Guav’s snoring, but at least she didn’t wake up screaming either. So, in a way, she was thankful for his company.

When Anna gets up, she pulls over the covers of the makeshift mattress of her cot and reveals a wooden chest. Opening the chest, Anna pulls out some clean set of clothes she washed the day before yesterday. A pair of tan pants, a long white sleeve shirt with a loose V-neckline, a black tang top to act as an under shirt, a dark worn looking brown belt with a large buckle, attach to it another strap to the holster to wrap around the right thigh. Along with a Westar-34 blaster pistol, a hunting rifle, and her vibro knife. The few weapons Anna was able to get her hands on with whatever she had to buy, or trade with to get what she needed to protect herself, especially when she no longer had either one of her lightsabers.

Anna walks over to the tarp divider, and calls over to Guav to wake-up and get ready to leave. It startled the green-yellow frogman, but apologized for doing so to wake him up. With the clothes and weapons in her arms, Anna goes out to the side shack where her bike is and changes inside there. Slipping out of her old clothes, and changing into the clean ones, lacing up her knee-high boots, sliding the belt-strap through the loops of her pants, along with the sheath of her knife, buckling the buckle over the belt holes, same for straddling the strap around her right thigh. Anna then slips on a pair of long dark gray fingerless gloves covering her palms, wraps a dark green bandana scarf around her neck, slides the Westar inside the holster, puts on her brown leather hooded duster coat, and takes her rifle in hand to walk outside back to the cabin. But not before grabbing a sack filled with scented propellent ointment and smoak grenades.

Bottles of oil and balls of herbs and other plants she was taught and learned about to use to fend off large predators and monsters. They won’t cause any harm to either Anna, Guav, or any creatures they’ll come across at all. The ointment, and smoke grenades will give off an odorless and tasteless to most people, a scent that’ll chase predator animals away. However, they will leave a foul odor that’ll last a day or so when the scent starts to become noticeable after a while if it’s not washed off properly.

Packing up the smoke grenades and ointments, Anna also grabs both the Astromech ambulatory struts and middle leg from her previous mech droid and packs them up into Guav’s X-30 Land Speeder. Packing them up along with Teekay-Five, and Sky, as well as with some ration’s little food, and a couple of canteens of fresh water. When everything was packed and ready, Anna slips on her goggles, they start up their speeders and ride off into the direction of the Swamp Region, The Danger Zone with Guav taking the lead.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

After a few hours of riding, Guav and Anna made it to the Moss Marsh Forest that is the boarder between the safe zone, and the ‘Danger Zone’. From there, she then spray on a couple of pumps of the ointment onto herself, and Guav, as well as hand him three herbal grenades and a lither to keep with him to light them up.

“Now remember,” Anna says to Guav as a warning. “if there any large predators around or close by, just use that lighter and lit up the smoak grenade. But not all at once, just one at a time. It’ll chase them off for a time, but enough to us, or yourself enough time to get the hell outta there. And one last thing you should keep in mind, never throw them anywhere at anything flammable. Fuel tanks especially, or those grenades when lit become bombs. Understand?” Anna asked.

Guav croaks, saying he understood as he packed the grenades in his own satchel bag, and the lighter in his pants pocket.

Anna then lifts the front part of her neck bandana scarf to cover her both her nose, and mouth before proceeding with Guva to go forward into the Danger Zone.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

So far going at a slow and steady pace through the Moss Marsh Forest, Guav and Anna manage to get through the tight and narrow spaces between the large and weeping willow trees and over the stilled waters. After a couple more hours, the two finally reach the clearing area of the Danger Zone Swamp, a clearing covered mostly of mist and fog. But even through the thick fog, it is at that moment Anna sees not only the downed Republic ship. But what also comes to her, is the last memory of a ship just like it, and one of which that haunts her in the nights while she tries to sleep. A Republic Acclamator – Class assault ship.

Looking around the area, the Acclamator came from the west and crashed in this clearing of the Danger Zone, the streak left behind by the crash looks to be about a mile or so long. There are a couple of Y-Wings, V-Wing’s, one or two noticeable Z-95’s and V-Wing’s. Amongst the wreckage are more than a dozen droid frighters, a few Vulture-Class, some Tri-Fighters, and one or two HMP droid gunships.

Guav said before that this ship crashed here early during the first year of the Clone War. There were definitely quite a lot of casualties during that time, as well as the loss of sight to of light hope and reason, and brought the growth of darkness and fear disguised as the light.

Guav continues to lead the way as he brings his speeder around to an opening where the boarding ramp is on the starboard-side, and Anna pauses as he heads to the entrance. The last time she was here, she was Padawan Or’Tiega. It was after Order 66 initiated, after the clones were given the command by Palpatine to kill the Jedi as a betrayal. Finally, it was the last place where Thianna last saw her master, Tarren Khal, and the last place she had to escape from. Though this was a different ship, the Acclamator brought back the echo’s of those wretched memories.

Guav stops and looks back to Anna, she’s at the entrance but does not move any closer. She stares up to the ship, but he doesn’t believe it’s from admiration.

He croaks to her, asking if she’s okay but Anna doesn’t say anything. He croaks to her again, and a bit louder to get her attention this time. Anna then flinches in response, breaking her out of whatever trance she was under.

“What?!” Anna answers, a bit annoyed as she pulls down her scarf, and then her goggles and looks right at Guav.

Guav croaks, asking Anna if she was okay.

“I’m fine.” Said Anna, still has a hint of annoyance in her voice as she rides through the threshold passing by him.

Guav is somewhat confused as Anna rides passed him, seeing a different expression on her face. He couldn’t tell for sure, but it is similar to when Kell gets on her case about whatever gets him worked up. To be on the safe side, Guav doesn’t ask another question and follows Anna inside and parks her speeder bike to an open area.

It is the ship hanger bay, where all of there transports, starfighters, and gunship load up with their troopers and artillery. Guav often ventured into this part of the Acclamator, he collected, and salvaged for parts or other things and sells them to Kell or other mechanical venders for credits. He also brings them back to Kahtee to fix up whatever vessels that come to her hanger, or uses them for himself for his own projects he works on.

Looking around the hanger bay, pulls out her flashlight torch and turns it on to get a better view of the interior. Though the outside haul of the ship is damaged from the crash, the interior is much worse. Nearly all the gunships, walker tanks, remaining star fighters, and two noticeable heavy laser canons were all wrecked beyond repair. What is also disturbing, there are few remains of Clone Troopers in their Phase One armor with several missing pieces. Nearby, lies a Phase One helmet with a cracked visor. No coloring, or tally lines to mark his fallen soldiers, his fallen brothers. When Guav said before that this ship crashed here early in the first year of the Clone War, Anna wonders how early.

Guav croaks, saying that no matter how many times he’s come and salvaged pieces and parts, it still gives him the creeps.

Not answering back, Anna continues to look around with her flashlight until she spots a hover cart. Hoping off her T-85 bike, she walks over and sees that it still functions, she also spots on the nearby wall a diaphragm map of the Acclamator. Anna looks for the droid maintenance area, from what she remembers is that is somewhere on the lower level, and she finds it. It’s across from the Medical Bay on the port-side towards the Bow end.

Both Anna and Guav load Teekay-Five and Sky onto the cart, and from the hanger bay she leads the way towards the droid maintenance. Hopefully there, they’ll find another 2-1B unit with working arms, as well as other astromechs to fix up Teekay. Though Anna doesn’t fully believe what Kell said before, he did seem very convinced about how Teekay was assembled from the inside with its circuitry.

After venturing through crumbling halls, and pushing stuck or broken doors open. Anna and Guav finally make it to Droid Maitenance, where all the droids would go to get repairs and system updates. Once they reached the door, Guav and Anna work together to lift the door open and find it almost just as trashed, but fortunately it didn’t look as bad as the rest of the ship. Still, there real question lies with Guav to see if he can get the power online.

Setting down their flashlights on a nearby table, Guav then brings out his own tools, and pulls out a panel of buttons to work on getting through the power. The first attempt, sparks went flying out of the exposed wiring. The second, there was nothing, then came more spark fire when testing failed. After a while, Guav continues tinkering until he finally got the power to the room. Lights were turning on, and the computer is coming online, even the lights on the table were turning on also.

When the power turned on, Guav sets Sky onto the table while Anna looks accesses the ships computer data base to look at the crew manifest. By doing so, she looks to find what droids were, and what ‘might’ still be on board.

Guav croaks to Anna, asking if she knows what she’s doing.

“Let’s just say, I use to work on these sorts of ships before working for Kell.” Anna answers blunt.

Guav squeals in surprise. He then asks her that she worked on old Republic and Imperial Cruisers?

“Just Republic.” Anna answered stern. “I found something.” She says with some hope in her voice.

Just then, Anna comes across what she’s looking for. Through the data bank, Anna sees on the manifest that are about a dozen 2-1B models on board, and one of them should be in the med bay across from them.

Walking out of the droid maintenance, Anna walks over to the medical bay with the door ajar. Both she and Guav lift it open, and they both see the Med Bay in the same state as the rest of the ship. After a quick scan, Guav spots what looks like a 2-1B unit, well sort of. Large chunks of ceiling debris, as well as more loose wiring and cables were covering it. The two work together recovering the droid, only to discover that the head was damaged beyond repair. Majority of its body was also damaged, yet it was still salvageable for parts if need be, but the arms are still intact, along with the pincer claws.

“Perfect.” Anna says relieved.

Anna kneels down next to the droid, slings the strap of her satchel bag off her shoulder to rummage through to find her tool kit. When she does, Anna finds her hydrospanner along with the multi head pouch to take off the nuts and bolts to remove the droid’s arms. Anna instructs Guav to hold both his and her flashlights to help her get a better view of her progress. While doing so, there were sounds echoing through the hall outside of the med bay that made Guav uncomfortable. Soon enough, the detachments of the 2-1B’s arms is finished, Anna puts away her tools and takes both arms back to the other room.

Guav croaks, asking if she heard noises too.

“With this ship falling apart, after crashing down in the middle of dangerous swamp area, with creatures big, or small lurking about anywhere and everywhere. It’s no surprise there are sounds going around.” Anna explains as she sets the arm limbs on the table with Sky. “Listen Guav, if you’re feeling uncomfortable, then I won’t blame or hold it against you for wanting to leave.”

Guav squeals in shock, asking if she’s crazy?

“I can see you’re nervous, just from hearing sounds of pieces of derbies falling to the ground, and asking multiple times of the same question.” Anna pointed out. “I’m not annoyed about it, I am just aware of your feelings.” She assures him. “So, if you want to leave here now since you know the way out, then I won’t stop you or make you feel guilty about it. I promise you.”

Guav croaks, asking what about her and how she will get out?

“I’m sure I’ll manage.” Said Anna. “If I don’t, then you’re free from servitude.” She answered.

After a few short minutes, Guav croaks, saying he’ll stay. Though he admits that he is scared, it wouldn’t be right of him to just leave her here, no matter how uncomfortable he is. And despite the number of times Guav has explored this ship, it still creeps him out. But nothing is worse than laving someone behind out of cowardness.

“You sound like you dealt with you’ve dealt with something like this before.”

Guav croaks, saying she could put it like that.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Anna asks.

Guav croaks, saying not now, but maybe later.

“Okay.” Anna breathed, not pressuring the green/yellow frogman any further about the matter. She turns away and gets to work on Sky’s vocabulator.

Anna has only been living on this planet for almost a year, and it seems a lot of the people in Pulo Village knows about Guav, especially Kahtee, but clearly Anna is out of the loop. Though part of her duty as a Jedi Sentinel Padawan, she was instructed to listen and observe her surroundings. But for the past year, she was only observant to not draw attention, as well as listen for rumors about herself. Anything about anyone, she just pretty much didn’t pay any mind to them.

Obviously, whatever happened Guav before she came to Povanaria, it must explain why he’s not with his colony anymore, and what Kahtee meant what she said about him at the hanger. Anna can sense strong emotions of guilt, regret, and remorse coming from Guav. But she’s not going to pressure him to telling her what happened, or what he did. He wasn’t ready, and she is not going to use the force to get him to talk, no matter if his mind isn’t that strong to resist.

While using a small screw driver, Anna removes each screw one at a time from the droids mouth piece until it was time to use her needle tool to pry it off. Even though she doesn’t fully trust Kell’s word when it comes to conditions of droids and their value in his shop, he was right about Sky’s vocabulator being shot. There is build up corroding, and a bolt nub was literally shot inside the piece from within.

“Well, this droid definitely needs a new vocabulator.” Anna sighs laying down the broken mouth piece on the table.

Guav croaks, asking if there is another 2-1B on board the ship.

“Well, let’s take a look.” Says Anna, walking over to the computer to look up the crew manifest again to see if there is.

After a minute, she found something.

“There.” Anna points to the screen. “Level three. . .” Anna pauses, with the expression of shock.

To Guav, it wasn’t an excited expression. He the croaks, asking her what was wrong.

“Um.’’ Breaking herself out of her shock. “The last known location of the second of the other 2-1B, is in the morgue.”

Guav squeals of fear, then asking if it was accurate.

“Well, the only way to find out is to go there.” Said Anna, but less enthusiastic as she packs up her satchel and slings the strap over her head and on her shoulder.

Guav then stops her, asking her what he should do while she’s gone.

“Well,” Anna breathed. “if you are really set on staying-“

He squeals, saying as a reminder that he won’t leave her alone.

“Okay,” Anna sighs. “what you can do is just attach the legs onto Teekay-Five, and the arms for Sky. But don’t charge either one of them until I get back, okay? Oh, and keep this with you, just in case.” Says Anna as she hands him her rifle. “For your protection.”

Guav croaks saying okay, but then asks how will they will keep in touch? He doesn’t have any communication devises.

“Oh, I got that covered.” Said Anna rummaging through her satchel, a couple of things she found around Pulo she thought would be handy. “Here.” She says as she tossed it to Guav.

Guav managed to catch it, and sees that it is a 3-MAL commlink. He then looks to Anna and sees that she has one also.

“Keep it with you, it’s set for channel three.” Anna instructs as she leaves the Droid Maintenance.

Guav turns on the com, and gets right to work on the droids.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Despite some of his own experiences of repairing droids, attaching a pair of Astromech Ambulatory Struts and a middle leg was definitely quite a challenge for Guav. With the few tools he has on hand they weren’t gonna be much of good use, so he had to search the Droid Maintenance area for the right ones. Fortunately, one of the repair droids that was laying around was a WED 15 Septoid Treadwell that had multiple tools built into it, despite missing a couple of limbs out of the other eight it still had.

With the new tools in hand, Guav was able to attach both struts and middle leg onto Teekay-Five Astromech. He also reminded himself to not charge either of the droids until Anna came back from searching for the new Vocabulator for Sky, so Guav stops himself for going to search for a working and functional charging station.

After he was finished with the mech, Guav then moves onto working on attaching the new arms for Sky. From the spot at the table, located directly under a prefect bright ceiling light, him attaching the arms will be much easier with more light other than just his flashlight alone.

As Guav got to work on Sky, something occurred to him. The other night, when he stayed over at Kell’s shop to work on the PIT droids. During that skirmish in the garage, Guav could’ve sworn that tall stack of crates was gonna fall right on top of him, but instead fell the other way when Anna came back.

Then yesterday at the hanger, the way Anna moved to grab the droid before it landed on her. She was so quick and precise, it reminded him of stories he’s heard about few people were capable of doing, and not just ordinary people. Anna moved in way like hooded ghost, or a silent warrior the way she handled that droid.

And while Anna was searching the ships computer, she was scrolling through it like the back of her hand. Though she said that she worked on ships like it before, and even when it was war times in the galaxy, and needed hands other than just Republic clones.

Then again, Guav might just be reading Anna all wrong and just over thinking. Though she never really spoke about her life before she came to Povanaria, other than saying she lost her entire family because of the conflict with the Clone War. It didn’t necessarily mean she was hiding anything, it could just mean there wasn’t much to tell.

Unlike Guav, there is much that almost everybody in Pulo knows about him. Things that is too much weighing him down, and too painful to talk about. With Anna, though it was chance that they crossed paths, she’s treated him with a level of kindness more than what the people have given him. It might not seem like much especially with how distant she seems, she doesn’t act mean or cruel to Guav, and it is enough for him to show Anna that he wants to show her the same by helping her.

As he finishes screwing and welding the arms in the sockets on Sky, Guav takes off his own goggles and sees the progress he’s done. All the droid needs is the new Vocabulator piece, and a power charge, and the medical droid should be good as new.

Stepping away to look outside to the hall, Guav doesn’t see Anna anywhere. He tries to keep in mind that this Republic ship is very big, Anna said that the other 2-1B is on level three in the morgue, and the ship is practically falling apart. He figured her getting to that room is no easy task if she climbing through manual service ways, such as taking ladders or crawling through the ventilation system.

To ease himself, Guav pulls out his comlink and calls Anna. He croaks in to the speaker piece, and he asks Anna how her search is going.

“So far so good.” Anna breathed. “I made it to level three, now I just need to get to the morgue, which shouldn’t be too far.” She explains. “I’ll find the that vocabulator as soon as I can and get back you, ASAP.”

 Guav croaks, assuring her not to worry about him, and that things are fine on his end. He also adds that he just finished putting the arms and legs on the droids.

“Already?” Anna said surprised. “You’re faster than me.” She complemented. “Well still, standby, and I’ll get back to you soon.”

Guav croaks, saying he copies her and that he’ll be waiting.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Acclamator: Level Three

Anna had just climbed up and out of the elevator shaft, and makes her way through another hallway filled with debris, grease filth, and flickering lights. Using her flashlight as her only guide to see where’s going and walking about. Anna finally finds the morgue with the door slightly ajar, but enough for her to have an idea.

She spots a pipe long, and thick enough to help push the door open, and stay open hopefully long enough to find the other 2-1B droid. Grabbing the pipe and holding it under her armpit, Anna crouches down, grabs the bottom of the door with both hands, and uses all of her strength to lift the door open enough to slip the pipe under it. As soon as she thought that she had enough space, Anna quickly maneuvered herself under the door and slips the pipe in place under the door against the frame. Between the door and the floor, Anna has about three to fours feet of space, enough to crawl out of the morgue when she finds the mouth piece she needs.

Taking a breath, Anna turns around to face a room that she wasn’t expecting to visit again so soon.Though this wasn’t the same morgue, it definitely brought back unforgettable memories that have become her nightmares for the past year.

Pushing those thought out of her head, Anna focuses on her present task. If only she had a breathing mask, then it would be a bit more tolerable for her search and not have to deal with the smell.

Pointing out her light, scheming the room thoroughly, Anna finds the 2-1B droid. A small grin forms on her lips, but doesn’t stop to bask in her discovery. She pulls out her screwdriver and needle tool and starts taking out each screw one at a time. Anna drops the screws in a small pouch and puts it in her satchel, and then uses her needle tool to pry off the vocabulator. Using her flashlight to examine the piece, it was clear to her that is undamaged. Still, she hopes that it’ll still be functional for Sky to talk through once he’s charged and powered up. Plus, he might give her some answers to who the woman Aelita is, or was, what she needed help with, how did she know Anna’s master Tarren, and why didn’t he ever tell her about this woman.

Anna packs the vocabulator into her satchel, and then crawls out of the morgue from under the door. When she got back up on her feet and started walking back to the elevator shaft, thoughts start to go around Anna’s mind, memories as Thianna when she was Padawan.

When Thianna started and her Master were sent out on assignments, she’s met quite a number of Tarren’s contact sources, and informants of the Jedi long before and during the Clone War. Most of which had insights within the criminal underworld, whether them being underlings, hustlers, or even gang leaders and crime lords themselves. Others were just innocent by standards who knew enough that would either protect themselves, or get them killed. For all Anna can speculate, this Aelita might just be one of his contacts that doesn’t know what happened, or that it could be an old message. And whomever this other person is that Aelita was referring to in that message, who knows what became of her, or if she’s even alive.

Still, even now with the droids in her possession, it doesn’t make sense for of why she’s even doing this, or what for. Anna doesn’t know this woman, or why she needed help. Plus, it’s not like Tarren gonna be able to do anything now to help Aelita because he’s dead, just like all the other Jedi, and the rest of the Order. Anna was there and saw it all, and there is no coming back since life only flows in one direction. One of main lessons Tarren taught Thianna early on in her training, is that all life energy is only barrowed, and that one day you’ll have to give it back.

At the same time, he also taught her other lessons. That nothing happens by accident, or by chance, and that the will of the force guides who and whatever onto what paths we take for a reason. It’s never clear as to why or for what reason at the beginning, but it is often proven that the journey will bring together the answer pieces by the time one reaches their destination.

“Tarren,” Anna breaths to herself. “what path am I about to walk onto once I get those droids working? What will I find? And where will I go from there?” She asks rhetorically to herself.

Just then, something catches Anna’s attention that has her stopping mid-stride in the hallway. Something is amiss, a sense of caution and uneasiness in the air. While listening carefully to her surrounds, Anna slows her breathing till it is barely a whisper, easily and carefully she puts the vocabulator into her satchel and seal buckles the bag. All that she can hear is dripping moisture, taping and clanking metal pieces echoing through the interior, as well as screeching. Still, Anna prepares herself, reaching very slowly for her Westar-34 blaster.

But by the time her hand had just barely touched the blasters grip, someone had just grabbed her by her shoulder. Next thing she knew, was being swung slammed against the wall by an Aqualish roaring at her and in the air. Though Anna managed kick him away and pull out her arm from his grip, she was then jumped by another that grabbed her from behind. Again, she kicked the second one away, but this time in both his knee caps to make him fall, and she elbows him hard to his head to let her go and runs.

The first one saw, and drew out his own blaster and starts shooting at her. Anna manages to find cover behind a nearby corner, and finally pulls out her blaster pistol to shoot back at the Aqualish pair. When they both started shooting, the blaster fire became intense for Anna to handle. Still, she had to fight back and shot back at the Aqualish’s.

When there was a brief moment, Anna grabbed her commlink.

Droid Maintenance

There was a beeping sound coming from Guav’s com, he picked it up and answers it.

Guav croaks, about to ask Anna if she’s on her way back.

“Guav!” Anna yelled cutting him off. “Guav listen, we have company!”

Guav squealed in panick.

“Yeah, the unfriendly kind!” Said Anna aloud. “Listen, don’t wait up for me. Get back to the speeders and get out of here!”

Guav squealed croaked for Anna to answer back if she was sure. In that same instant, there a loud screeching sound coming from the ceiling above the table with Sky. At the same time, a couple of roof panels fall to the ground, and along with few pieces of debris. When the screeching got louder, that was when Guav ducks under the table to take cover from the fallen debris, he closes his eyes and covered his head to try to protect himself. However, even with the lids of his eye closed, Guav saw flashes and sparks of light flickering around until something like a cable landed on the table and even a brighter light erupted.

There was jolting and convulsing happening on top of the table, while Guav still kept himself covered and eyes closed. After about a minute or so, the jolting above him was dying down, and soon it was dark and quiet. Guav opens his eyes, and slowly crawls out from under the table. He then sees the mess that was just made, as well as what on top of the table. There was trash of debris atop od the droid, as well as a live electric cable flashing sparks with exposed wiring, and it was touching Sky.

Guav acts quickly to remove the debris, but also being careful to not touch the cable. Undenounced to him while doing so, one of Sky’s pincer claws started twitching and soon enough, the arm started to rais up off the table. By the time Guav was finished clearing all the debris, he grabs his flash light off the ground to get a better view of the room and help him find his way out. By the time Guav stands back up. We is met with a droid sitting up, and two to three yellow lit light eyes staring down at him.

Guav squeals out of fear and falls backwards from the sight of the droid looking at him. He frantically gets himself back up and runs fast out of the droid maintenance, dropping the blaster in the process, but does not stop to go back for it. Guav keeps running out and through the halls, but not towards the hanger. Guav runs for one of the elevator shafts, hopefully to meet up with Anna. As soon as he turned a corner, he is met with five other Aqualish all pointing their blasters at him and he raises both hands in the air.

Acclamator: Level Three

The gunfight is still being fought between Anna, and the two Aqualish. These two in particular she does recognize back at Pulo, Durla, and Mo. They’re part of a Poaching Group, run by Muro the Aqualish leader. A band of hunter’s who are hired to poach animals, meat for food, skin-hides and teeth for clothing or profit, often as an extra they hunt to clear some creatures that act like pests. Anna has had a few run-ins before with the group, but the last time was over eight months ago with the aid of Ro’ran who gave them a warning to never come at Anna again. After that, neither Muro, or any of his party never dared to mess with, or came near Anna again. Why now is unclear, but it’s doubtful that even they would come this far into the Danger Zone, unless something else caught their attention. Unlikely it has to do with the weapons still on board the Acclamator.

During a very brief moment, Anna smells the air of the hall way and caught the scent of fuel fumes. Mo and Durla started shooting again, and Anna picks through satchel and pulls out one of her smoke grenades, and her lighter. Ducking back as much as possible, Anna flicks her lighter lit and uses the small flame to lit the wick. As soon it started spuing sparks, Anna throws the grenade and stars running for the elevator shaft with blaster bolts still shooting at her. Before the Aqualish noticed or knew it, a ball covered in twine and herbs was flying until it hit a wall across them and the sparks set the floor ablaze, followed by smoke. But the explosion of fire consumes the Aqualish pair, and Anna had just barely made it to the shaft as the explosion ignited.

Loosely gripping the cable with her hands and legs, Anna slides down with as much ease as possible to get back to Level one for Guav. When she touched ground and dashes for the Droid Maintenance, Anna is then confronted by Muro, and four other Aqualish poachers.

Muro gruntly roars at Anna to not move, and demands her to drop all her weapons. One of his follower nudges Guav with his blaster rifle, as a way to motivate Anna to do what Muro told her to do. Anna is capable of taking on all of the poacher’s herself, even without her lightsabers, or her weapons. But she can’t risk Guav’s life to save her own. Anna slowly pulls out her Westar from the holster, along with her vibro knife from its sheath on her belt, drops both onto the floor and kicking them away. Muro then roars at her to take off and drop her satchel also. With one hand raised in the air, Anna uses her other to take off the satchel and drop it before kicking it away.

Muro orders one of his followers Sulk to cuff Anna with wrist binders, and another Durrel to go find the droids. Splitting from the group, Durrel leaves to search for the droids, while Muro and the rest take Anna and Guav towards to the Hanger Bay. There, there is another and larger speeder. However Muro, and his poaching party managed to get through this far into the Danger Zone is anyone’s guess.

When the group sets Anna and Guav down against a broken-down walker, Muro and another called Klackel stand guard, while the other two rummage through Guav’s speeder. Muro declared earlier that he claims Anna’s bike as his own, and as soon as the other follower named Dak get’s back, they’ll leave with the droids and the Jedi so they’ll get paid by his contact.

What Muro said about Jedi, struck Anna like a blade through her chest. They somehow know that she is a surviving Jedi.

Guav croaks to her quietly, asking her what’s wrong and what did they mean by ‘leaving with the droids and the Jedi’? Who are they talking about? What Jedi?

Anna couldn’t talk, couldn’t utter a word, not even a whisper. She couldn’t give him an answer, not even to deny their claim.

In that same instant, Muro roars at Guav to stop his croak talking. He also threatened to sell Guav to slave traders, or to be used as bate for their next hunting trip. Jokingly points out that the swamp gators love eating frog people, but with Guav’s history, his own kin won’t miss him. Especially after the disaster he caused, so his life will serve a justice finally paid for them.

Klakel growls, asking how much will they will be paid for the Jedi once they hand over the droids to the client?

Muro growls in reply, saying that it was hard to say, but definitely more than what they’re being tasked for the droids. Since the Empire is said to pay handsomely for Jedi, perhaps enough for a small fortune. The payment from the client isn’t enough for the Jedi woman, just for the two droids, considering what people on this planet make on a regular basis Muro added. He also said that he invited the client to come along, so that they all can share the glory of capturing a live Jedi for Imperial favor, plus extra. But the client wasn’t interested in the Jedi, nor he wanted the Empire on his back for anything on what he needs the droids for. Just bring back both the astromech, and medical droid, and they get paid twenty-thousand credits.

Klakel argued about the pay, saying they should be paid double for this job since it’s not the usual thing they do.

Muro did say that to the client, and the client had already paid twenty-thousand upfront. When they bring back the droids to the client, he’ll pay another twenty-thousand.

Klakel growls in excitement, saying now that sounds like a good way to get paid.

Anna over hears their talk, and takes into a count of clues of what Muro explained. Their client only wants the droids, and not Anna. The client must live here on Povanaria, since most people don’t earn enough, except few shop and hanger owners. Finally, this person doesn’t any involvement with the Empire, even to turn over a Jedi.

Just then, a loud roaring sound erupts from the nearby hallway entrance where they all came from. The roar sounded it was agonizing and painful, and that cause all the Aqualish poachers to draw their blasters.

Muro pulls out his own commlink and call for Durrel to give his status, and what was holding him up? There was no answer from Durrel, just static. Muro called again, demanding Durrel to answer back. Again, just static, no answer from the other end.

Muro and Klakel look at each other, and instantly Muro calls all of his people to ready themselves. When Klakel was about to grab to pull Anna up on her feet, a bolt from a blaster just shot out of no where and the secondhand Aqualish instantly dropped dead. Then another shot is fired, but missed the two at the speeders hitting one of the ATTE’s. Muro then roars for one of his men to go into the hall to find who, or whatever is firing at them and take care of them. The rest are ordered to stay, and get the prisoners loaded into their speeder and get the hell outta here.

Just when the other two Aqualish poachers were grabbing Guav and Anna, sounds of several blaster fire being shot go off, then comes another agonizing roar erupts. All of them start to scramble on getting into the speeder, but then three balls of sparkling fire fly overhead, then comes plumes of smoke before hitting the ground, avoiding to start a fire. Within seconds they were all surrounded by smoke, but thankfully Guav and Anna were close to each other to see one another.

Guav then recalls and croaks to Anna, telling him that after she called to leave, there was a ceiling collapse in the droid maintenance area.

“A collapse?” Anna asked concerned.

Guav croaks yes, and explains that there was also a live power cable when it did, and it all fell on top of Sky on the table.

“You mean-“ Anna breathed. “When you said all the debris fell onto the table.”

Guav croaked, saying it all fell down, that included the live cable. All of it fell onto Sky, and there flashes of light and sparks flying around the room. The cable definitely hit Sky, and that must’ve also gave the droid a power charge.

“How can you be sure that it worked?”

Guav also explained that after he cleared the trash, and picked up his flashlight off the ground. The next thing he saw was the droid sitting up right, and a pair of glowing eyes were staring at him. That’s when he got scared and ran out of the room. He also fell when he got scared and dropped his satchel that had the smoke grenades, and he even remembers forgetting the blaster rifle

Anna didn’t think too much on it. Whatever’s going now, this might be Sky’s doing.

At that instant second, there is more blaster fire being shot, and soon all Aqualish were shooting randomly. Anna and Guva do their best to get as low as possible, until they hear another poacher fall dead. This time, close to them and enough to see through the smoke. Anna can tell it’s the same Aqualish that took her weapons and satchel, he is and does have them and she searches through the bag for her knife to free Guav and herself from their cuffs. She finds the knife, but then is confronted with Muro and his last follower, both pointing their blasters at her.

Just then, something shot from behind Ann at the follower, not a blaster bolt, but some sort of thick moist rope. It’s wrapped around the barrel of the blaster, and it is instantly yanked out of his hand and into Guav’s. Anna then realized it was Guav’s tongue. Impressed. Gross, but impressed.

At the same time, Muro went right for Anna for her knife, but she was too quick and maneuvered herself to dodge him. At that instant, she also managed to get up on her feet as the follower went for her as well, but dodged him as well, but kicked him hard enough from the side to knock him down. Anna goes right to Guav with her knife in hand and uses it to cut the cuffs open, but when she did, Muro snuck up on her and grabbed her from behind causing her to drop the knife.

The struggle is hard, Muro was not letting her go and the two struggled. As soon as the smoke cleared, they noticed the follower leaving in the larger speeder. The follower abandoned his boss, and Muro was alone with Guav, and the Jedi. The two continued to struggled, until Anna tangled her own leg with Muro’s causing him to fall, but her as well. Once they were on the ground, Anna manages to slip out of Muro’s grip but accidently causing him shooting a blaster bolt up to the ceiling above. That single shot causes a large piece of metal ruble to break loose and fall down, and right above the spot where Guav is picking up her satchel. Without giving a second thought, Anna reaches out with the force and pushes Guav as far as possible to miss the ruble dropping onto him. She succeeded, he is yards away and the fallen ruble had completely missed him. But in that same moment, Muro is now back on his feet pointing his blaster at her.

Before Anna reacted, another blaster bolt was fired, not by Muro but at him. Muro drops his blaster as he topples over dead, and Anna moves quickly out of the way before the Aqualish fell on top of her.

Anna manages to get up on her feet, and sees Guav coming around the ceiling ruble with her satchel in hand. However, he has a confused expression on his face that showed both relieved, but shock.

Guav croaks, asking Anna how did she do that?

Anna couldn’t come up with an answer, her heart began to speed up.

He then asks if that was the force?

Still, Anna didn’t say a word, she didn’t know what to say.

Guav then croaks loudly, asking if what Muro said was true. Is she a Jedi?

Just then, there is clanking sounds echoing from the across the hanger. Anna knows well enough that those are stepping sounds are, they’re the kind that some droids make when they walk. Light is being shined through the hole opening from the fallen chunk that almost landed on Guav, and the figure comes into view. It is 2-1B-SK1, Sky. He walks with Guav’s satchel over his shoulder, and holding Anna’s rifle in his hands.

Anna then holds up her hands, letting the droid know that she is not armed and poses no threat to anyone.

“We are not threats to you.” Anna assures Sky. “We were trying to fix you, and an astromech, TK-5-C-25.” She explains in a calm manor as she walks slowly towards Sky, and points to Guav. Letting the droid know she doesn’t want any conflict, and they were trying to help him and Teekay-Five.

When Anna said Teekay’s number, a loud aery sound comes from Sky. He also drops the rifle, waving his arms frantically, obviously trying to communicate in some way.

“Okay,” Anna says aloud. “okay, Sky!” She calls out to the droid. Just like that, the sound stops and the air goes silence. “Sky,” Anna says again in her normal tone. “that’s your name, right?”

Sky nods his head, gesturing the answer ‘yes’.

“Okay, good.” Anna says in relief. “I saw in a hologram from Teekay-Five that that what you were called, by a woman named, Aelita.”

Sky nods his head yes again, but the same time, the irritating souns started up again. Guav covers his ears, but Anna isn’t able to.

“Sky, listen!” Anna calls out loud to the medical droid, and the sound stops again. “Okay listen, Sky. You obviously need to communicate, you have questions you want to ask, right?”

Sky nods yes.

“Alright, well as do I.” She points out. “Does the name Tarren Khal mean anything to you?” Anna asks.

Sky nods yes again.

“Okay,” Anna sighs. From what I saw from a piece of the holomessage, you were given a task that had something to do with Tarren Khal. Do you know what it was about?”

Sky then shook his head side to side, meaning no.

Anna then let’s out a disappointing sigh, but she at least a clue to start with.

“Okay Sky,” Anna began to speak. “your mouth vocabulator was damaged, but I have a new one in my satchel bag. My friend Guav is holding it, and we can take you somewhere safe to put it in so you can talk clearly. And maybe we can do the same for Teekay, whom is still back at the droid maintenance. Well go back and get Teekay, and fix you both right up, does that sound alright with you?”

Sky then puts up his arms, and starts stepping away from Anna.

“Hey wait!” Anna calls out. “Listen I promise, we’re not going to hurt you, or Teekay, and we’re not going to leave your friend here. I give you, my word.” Anna assures him. “I said before, you also have questions and need a way to explain yourself. I have questions for you, and I’m going to need more than just yes or no answers. They involve someone who was close, and meant a great deal to me.”

Guav croaks, asking whom she was referring to.

“Tarren Khal,” Anna said with a heaviness in her voice. “he was my Mentor. He taught me everything I know, and he was the closest person I had to a father.”

Guav croaks, wondering who Tarren was a mentor of what exactly?

There was definitely no getting away from Guav’s questions, and she couldn’t lie about what just happened either. Looking at both him, and over to Sky. Anna then closes her eye, takes in a deep breath, and lets it out as she faces both Guav and Sky.

“He was my Master in the Jedi Order,” Anna says. “I was his Padawan Apprentice. I am a Jedi.” She confesses, finally letting go of the weights that have been weighing her down.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Okay, so this chapter really took a lot more time to edit and type up than what I had originally thought it would. But it was still fun to write, and I’ll post the next chapter soon. Also, I’ve been writing up a short story, and I’ll post the first part as soon as I can. Thank you for following me and this story, and can’t wait to hear your thoughts. Be sure to comment, send kudos, and share this story friends, and anyone who loves Star Wars. Have a great day (or night), and remember. The Force will be with you, always.

Chapter Text

Chapter. 6

Safe Zone, Miles from Pulo Village, Povanaria, Outer Rim Territories, 18BBY

As soon as Anna, and Guav collected both droids, the astromech TK-5-C-25, and the 2-1B Medical SK-1 ‘Sky’, and loaded them back onto the land speeder. Guav leads the way out of the Acclamator, through the Danger Zone Swamp until they’ve reached the boarder of the safe area zone. From there, Anna takes the lead on her speeder bike to a hidden place where no one ever goes.

After about two hours, the group has finally reached Anna’s secret spot. A hidden cave that is an abandoned Mud Horn den with moss garlands covering the cave entrance. Anna found it when she first came to Povanaria, she needed a place to hide her ARC-170 fighter. It’s far away enough from wondering prying eyes of Pulo Village, yet still close by for her to come when she needed to make some repairs on her speeder bike, and fill up on what fuel when she can.

Once at they enter the cave, Anna hops of her bike and rushes over to the generators to turn on the lights. When Guav sees the Republic ARC-170, he is in awe to seeing an old Republic bomber up close, and still in one piece.

“Guav,” Anna calls out as she rummages through a trunk. “bring Sky over here so I can install the new vocabulator.”

Breaking from his trance, Guav helps the medical droid out of the speeder and walks him over to a small box Anna sets up as a make shift bench. The droid does not struggle with him, nor stops in fear to go against the frogman. Guav gently holds Sky by the wrist of his right arm, and guides him to the box by the light when Anna is setting up her tools.

Taking off her duster coat, Anna lays it onto a large trunk behind her, and sits on that trunk as Guav brings Sky to sit in front of her.

“Okay Sky,” Anna says firm as looks at the droid straight in his eyes. “I’m gonna install this new Vocabulator, so it should be a suitable replacement for you to talk clearly, okay?” She explains as she pulls out from her satchel bag, and shows the droid the recovered vocabulator from the Acclamator. “So, I’m going to need you to hold very still for me. If there is something that is uncomfortable, or if I’m not doing right, or have some other questions.” Anna then reaches for her bag, and pulls out a data pad. “You just tap me on my shoulder to get my attention, and type whatever it is you need to say onto this data pad, alright?”

Sky nods, indicating that he understands what Anna said.

Guav croaks, asking if it’s really necessary to explain all of that to a droid? And a Medical droid at that?

“I’ve spent time in the medical field, and this is what medical personals do for their patience’s as a way to let them the step by steps of the kind of care they need.” Anna explains.

Just then, Anna feels light but dense taps on her shoulder. She then turns to Sky as he picks up the data pad with one of his pincer fingers, he then starts typing before handing it to Guav. Guav reads what Sky wrote, and then croaks, saying that Anna is correct. Explaining that anyone who works in the medical field, giving the best care possible to the patient is their top priority. That which also includes droids in some cases, when they to need some care and treatment, despite being considered lower lifeforms compared to organics, such as humans.

Soon, Anna brings out a small flashlight and gives it to Guav to hold up to Sky’s face to help her to get a better look inside. With the light, Anna uses smaller cleaning tools, and a cloth to clear out small particles of dirt, and gunk that Kell’s oil bath missed. Once that was all cleaned up, Anna then removes the old Hydraulics’ line from Sky’s chest plate that was once attached to his old broken vocabulator, and then inserts the new line, along with the new vocabulator. Attaching the device to the line, Anna snaps the vocabulator onto Sky’s face and the screws in the four tiny bolts into the screw slots of the piece, two on each side.

“Okay Sky, how is that?” Anna asks standing up from her sitting position from the trunk to be next to Guav.

“Llllllleeet mmmmmmhhhhhh.” Sky tries to speak. At first, there is just static as he tried to speak. Then Sky adjusted his settings by pressing a few of the buttons on the Interface Socket on the left side of his chest plate. “Sssssoooo gggraaggggg.”

Guav croaks, asking if the vocabulator is the solution, or there maybe more than one issue.

“Just wait a minute.” Anna advises.

Sky continues to make adjustments, even after a minute. Anna begins to question if she really did find a functioning vocabulator, and if that Guav may have been right. But then, something happends.

“Aaaaaaallllllllmmmmmmmoooooooossssstttt. Neeeaaaarrrrrlllly. III bellll.” Sky tries to speal, and almost in clear words, and in a somewhat clear sentence. “Jjjjjuuusssstttt aaaaa llliiitttllleee mmmoooooore.” Sky pauses, pulling his claw away from the interface.

After a short moment of silence, the droid then looks to Anna. She and Guav look to Sky bewildered, confusion, and worry.

“Do not worry.” Sky says assuring in a clear and complete sentence. “It was quite a bit of an adjustment to make another medical droids vocabulator compatible to my own system, but nothing that was unexpected all things considered to the circumstances. Any who, allow me to introduce myself. I am, Two-One-Bee-Es-Kay-One. However, Lady Aelita Adell often called me ‘Sky’. She thought it best to call me that name with a ‘Y’, rather than with an ‘I’, due to it sounding like an activity in the snow, rather than it sounding like a name. And, obvious, you have acquainted yourself with my long-time counter-part, and dearest friend, Tee-Kay-Five-See-Twenty-Five-”

Guav croaks, interrupting Sky, saying he thought that the vocabulator should’ve worked instanly, instead of him adjusting it to making it compatible.

“In most cases for droids, yes. However, there specific parts that are built for specific droids, and they must be adjusted and modified to be compatible to the new owner. And this new vocabulator was no exception, and why it took me a bit longer to make it functional for me.” Sky explains.

Guav then adds in a subtle hysterical tone, that it didn’t take Sky long to adjust to his arms when he got up in that droid maintenance room, and scared him almost close to death before running into those Aqualish poachers.

“I suspect it was due to the unexpected electrocution, due to the ceiling collapse. However, I do apologize for the fright I have caused you. That was not my intention, but merely trying to get your attention, and to ask if I was still in that dreadful cave, before my power cells were completely depleted.” Sky said apologetically as he explained.

“Hold on, what cave? Is that where you were when Aelita sent you and Teekay-Five away?” Anna asked confused.

“Goodness, no. We were escaping from our home base that was far more decent, and much more pleasant, than that junk yard valley of that frigid mountain planet. Where I found Teekay-Five, and myself when our escape pod crashed.” Sky explained.

Guav croaks, saying that the junk yard owner, Steekal, said that the last pile of junk he collected before Kell bought his last pile from him was from a planet called ‘Lanupa’. He’s heard that there’s a whole valley of junk, and trash, and giant crab monsters covered in it.

“I do recall seeing such a creature. Dreadful beast, that was. I was fortunate enough to get both Teekay-Five, and myself to a nearby cave to be safe while I made repairs.” Sky explained.

“Hold on, you did the repairs on Teekay-Five?” Anna questioned. “You used whatever astromech parts to repair the mech?” She demanded. Remembering what Kell said about Teekay-Five, saying that the mech was built in a way by what was described practically merging two different series of astromech’s together. Sky said that he did the repairs, he must’ve used both R-series, and C-series units to do so, and why Kell detected both kind of circuitry in the mech.

“Well yes, and no.” Sky confessed.

“I’m confused.” Said Anna.

“I did perform repairs on Teekay-Five, but I was searching for specific parts that she was already assembled with. Though the junkyard we were stranded on did indeed have many part pieces that were required, I was unable to gather the most important ones. The memory banks of both an R-unit, and a C-unit astro mech.” The medic droid explained.

“Well, there goes that theory.” Anna thought. “Okay,” She breathed, rubbing her forehead trying to clear her thoughts. “how about we start from the beginning. Who was this Aelita woman? And why did she need help from Master Khal?”

Guav croaks, suggesting that besides who this woman Anna has been mentioning. He wants to know who Anna really is, and why didn’t she say before she was a Jedi.

“Guav! This isn’t the time, and you remember the Empire, don’t you” Anna tries to explain.

Guav croaks again but louder, demanding why else would those poachers would’ve bothered going after Anna? And was it her that used the force the other night with the PIT droids?!

“Guav please, you have to understand why-“ Anna tries to explain.

Guav cuts her off, saying he understands because of the Empire. But she still could’ve said something to him, and he would keep her secret.

“I beg your pardon,” Sky cuts him off. “what is this Empire you speak of? And why would you as a Jedi need to hide? Unless you are on an undercover assignment. What of the Order, or the High Jedi Council?” Sky speculates.

Guav croaks again, asking Sky sarcastic doesn’t he know what happened at the end of the Clone War? Doesn’t he know that the Jedi committed treason against the Republic Supreme Chancellor, and are now wanted criminals by the Galactic Empire?

“What Clone War?” Sky asked confused. “I know of no such conflict, nor would ever believe the Jedi would commit such a criminal act without reason.”

Just then, it dawned on Anna. “Sky,” Anna says in her calm tone as the medical droid turns to face her. “how long do you think your power cells were depleted for?”

“Apparently, a very long time I’m afraid.” Sky confessed. “Please, tell me. How long has it been since Dorit-Chee Chuchi of Pantora, was the Galactic Republics Supreme Chancellor?” He asks sincere. A sign that show that Sky wasn’t in the time he was familiar with.

Both Guav, and Anna look at each other. His frustration, and her stress dimeter melt away with concern, but also relief. In order to understand what Sky might know about Aelita, they have to put aside their situation, and get the droid caught up the current state of the galaxy and its recent history.

“It’s a long, and complicated thing to explain.” Said Anna.

“Do your best to explain.” Sky encourages in a subtle confident tone as he placed his right pincer claw on her shoulder.

At that moment, all three each take a seat facing each other and Anna begins to explain.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Almost three hours passed, and both Anna and Guav tell Sky everything. The situation between the Republic, and The Confederacy of Independent Systems “The Separatists”, a government of those leaving the Republic being led by Count Dooku after he left the Jedi, and led the cause. Jedi Knights and Masters were assigned to be military Generals, and their Padawans were Commanders to the Clone Trooper Armies that were created to fight, and protect the Republic from the droid armies of the Separatists. For over three and half years, the war that became known as ‘The Clone War’ had spread across the galaxy, in hopes to unite it once again in the name of peace for the Republic. At the end of the war, the clones were given an order by Chancellor Palpatine from Naboo for all clones to hunt down and destroy the Jedi Knights for crimes against the Republic. Saying that the Jedi plotted to overthrow the Republic, and assassinate the Chancellor, and that any surviving Jedi will be hunted down and arrested, or killed on sight if and when they’re found or discovered.

Both Anna, and her Master, Tarren Khal were on the Twi’leck home world of Ryloth when Order 66 was given by Palpatine, and when everything changed. She survived the purge, but Tarren didn’t. She managed to escape on the ARC-170, and had to hide herself by blending in with the populous of Povanaria, hence why she didn’t, and couldn’t say or do anything that’ll give her away. Anna has been here on Povanaria, living and working for Kell at the droid repair show for almost a year, but also been hiding ever since Palpatine declared the Republic as the new Galactic Empire.

“Oh my.” Sky sighed. “What of the other Jedi? Are there any other survivor’s other than yourself?” He asks concerned.

“If there are,” Anna breathed. “I don’t know where they are, and I can’t take any chances of looking for them either.”

Guav croaks in turn, asking Anna about the Jedi Temple on Coruscant, and if she thought about going back there.

“The purge was happening everywhere simultaneously, both on Coruscant at the temple, and all known war fronts throughout the galaxy. I went to one of old abandoned Jedi Temples in the Mid-Rim, hoping to rendezvous with others who did escape. When I got there, I found it not only burned down, but also other Jedi dead.” Anna confessed, her voice cracked. “That’s when I realized, that if the clones found that temple, then the Empire must’ve found the others as well. So, I did what my master instructed me to do.”

Guav croaks, asking Anna what was it that her master taught her.

“That when the worst happens, you’re prepared for it.” Anna says blunt. “Training as a Jedi Sentinel, there were those who said that we were too cautious, too paranoid, even for the rest of the Order. But with the war going on, not knowing for sure how it would end. There were steps that had to be made to secure survival, as well as choices. I changed my appearance, my name, gave myself a new identity, and do my best to make myself not act, look, or even smell like a Jedi. Since then, I’ve been going unnoticed, not raise suspicion, just being a regular citizen like most others. Up until today at least.” Anna explains.

There was a long moment of silence after Anna finished talking. To Guav, word about the demise of the Jedi didn’t go heard of in most places throughout the galaxy. But how Anna described the ordeal, it was as if the highlighted news story was being reviewed all over again, except in a new perspective. Rather than by a wanted war criminal that the Emperor described the Jedi, but a surviving victim who was betrayed, and lost everything, and everyone she knew. Someone who literally bares the mark of everything that was taken, and what she has to live with now. What Anna said before about losing her whole family, and her home from the conflict of the war, it wasn’t just a ruse to use in her story when people asked. It was the truth.

Guav then croaks again, asking Anna how she survived the purge, and how did she get away from the clones.

“It was thanks to my master.” Anna said simply, her voice cracking again. She stands up turning away as tears begin fill her eyes.

This surprised Guav. With all the stories he’s heard about the Jedi, they were supposed to have control over their emotions, and never show anything remotely that says weakness or painful. But from what Anna told both him and Sky, comparing the stories, and what she endured. He wondered if the Jedi were even people at all, and she just answered that question. Even they cry.

Anna takes several breaths as a way to calm herself. Even with all the training she did, all of the lessons Tarren had taught her as a Jedi, especially when breaking down from stress, and trauma. Sometimes, Anna wondered how she remained his apprentice for as long as she did until what happened on Ryloth.

After a short minute, Anna finally got herself composed and sits back down with the frogman and droid.

“By the maker.” Said Sky. “I cannot believe so much has happened in all that time I have been powered down. It just seemed only yesterday, that Teekay-Five, and I were just with Lady Aelita facing her own conflicts. They were hard, not to mention dangerous enough, even for her. Part of the reason why she sent word to your Master for aid. But, now. . . .” Sky spoke with despair in his tone. “Tell me,” The droid began to speak again in concern, looking to Anna. “were you really Tarren Khal’s apprentice?” Sky asked.

“Yes.” Anna breathed simply.

“Oh my.” Sky says soft, but somewhat worried as he looks down, clasping both his claws together.

“Sky,” Anna said, the droid looks up to her. “the other night when I was finished cleaning Teekay-Five. She had a bit of a power surge, and showed partial footage of Aelita, telling you two to go and fulfill your task. As well as leaving her behind, and to not worry about her. There was also a piece of the footage, likely the message for Master Khal. Aelita was saying, ‘Help her, Tarren Khal. You are her only hope.’” Anna explained. “I need to know, what was happening, and who was Aelita talking about?”

“Well,” Sky sighed. “seeing as how we are now your properties, as well as you were Master Khal’s apprentice, did go through great lengths to acquire Teekay-five, and myself. And did just expose yourself, given the circumstances in the state of the galaxy just to repair us. You are now our new mistress, and I see no reason why I cannot answer any questions you have about our previous mistress.”

Guav croaks, adding that technically both he and Anna purchased Sky and Teekay. Therefore, both the droids belong to both him, and to Anna.

“Oh, is that true?” Sky asked curious.

“It is.” Anna confirms. Reminding herself also, that it was because of Guav who did pay the remaining credits to Kell, is how she ended up with both droids instead of just leaving them.

“Very well then. Though, I must tell you. My memory bank is somewhat scrambled, but I will do my best to tell you as much as I can remember.” Sky says with caution. “Both TK-5-C-25, and myself, along with Lady Aelita. We were whom some called us ‘The Argo-Navis Outlaws’, but not like pirates, or other scoundrels that others would be preferred as. But those for compassion, and humanitarian purposes.”

Guav croaks, saying he’s actually heard stories about the Argo-Navis. Tales about a woman pilot of a YG-4210, comes and swoops in to steal precious cargo from warlords and gangsters, just to give it those in need, or to give priceless treasures back to their rightful owners. Liberate slaves from their oppressors, and bring them to uncharted sanctuaries. Even go as far as reuniting families, and not expect big rewards in return, or if any at all.

“All of that I can confirm.” Said Sky. “There were times we did struggle, I even wondered what was the purpose of it all.”

“Did you ask Aelita why?” Anna asks.

“I did, and she did say to both Teekay, and I that it was important to her, b-b-b-b- because-“ Sky cuts off at mid-sentence, and then his whole body starts trembling all over, followed by sparks bursting out from some places that started a couple small fires.

Both Anna, and Guav look at the droid, and then each other bewildered before turning back to Sky. In that instance, the two race to grab her jacket, and a small blanket and swipe against the droid to put out the fires. Thankfully, they weren’t much trouble to take out, just left a couple small burnt spots. At the same time, the sparks from Sky also finally ceased, as well as his jostling. The droid went completely limp and slumped over as he still sits on the small box.

“Sky?” Asked worried. She walks over to him and gently shakes him on his shoulder. “Sky, can you hear me?!” Anna speaks a little louder. “Es-Kay-One!” She yells out loud.

Guav croaks to Anna while he gently puts his hand on her shoulder, telling her to calm down and that likely Sky had a power glitch.

Suddenly, Sky jostled again, but no sparks of fire this time. His eyes flash on, and he sits up straight again.

“Hello, it is I, Two-One-Bee-Es-Kay-One. Formally, Sky.” Sky greeted himself.

“Sky, are you okay?” Anna asks still worried.

“Well, I am detecting some glitches within my circuit system. Did something occur?” Sky asked curious.

Guav croaks, telling Sky that he just cut off mis-sentence of why Aelita did what she did back when he, and Teekay were traveling with her. Then he just started shaking around, as sparks of fire were flashing out of him.

“Oh my,” The droid sighed. “it appears that I may still need some repairs, despite your best efforts. But, I am afraid that it is going to take a lot more than new limbs to repair me fully, and completely.” Sky said depressed. “Especially for my dear Teekay-Five, she needs it far more than I do from all the damage she was inflicted with.”

Guav croaks, suggesting maybe they should see about fixing her up, or perhaps pull out her memory bank and see what they can from there.

“No! Absolutely not!” Sky protests.

“Why not? Is it because she’s partially a C-unit Astromech?” Anna asked.

“More than that,” Said Sky. “Teekay-Five was specially assembled by a ‘Master Splicer’, who specialized in many things techno related. Not only merging multiple units of droid together, but also building their memory banks to be almost as strong, and impenetrable, despite whatever damage they received. Unfortunately, she was also built with special protocols that only Lady Aelita knew. If anyone even tries to hack into her memory bank, she will very likely self-destruct, and destroy anything and everything she knows. That includes the message that was meant for your master.” Sky pointed out.

“Dang farrik.” Anna breathed.

Guav squealed in shock, saying he’s surprised to hear such a thing coming from a Jedi.

“Yeah, well I’m not a Jedi anymore.” Anna reminded him, a bit annoyed as she stood up. “Sky, you said you, and Teekay were in an escape pod when you woke up in that junkyard on Lanupa, right?”

“Correct.” Sky confirmed.

“Alright, why were you two in there in the first place? What was happening that you had to be in there?” Anaa asked.

It took him a minute to think, but he soon met Anna’s eyes, and then said. “We were under attack.”

Guav gasped.

“We, and Lady Aelita, we were being pursued by mercenaries, soldiers for hire. Somehow, they found our homestead, and they were hell bent on hunting us down.” Sky explained. “I cannot remember why exactly, but likely for liberating and freeing slaves from the Zygerrian slave trade auction earlier from that.”

“Yeah, the Zygerrian’s, and others like them tend hold a grudge when people do that. That would be one.” Anna pointed out with a bit of sarcasm in her voice.

“Anyways, Lady Aelita, and all of us on the Argo fought as much as we could, and as hard as possible to get away from them.” Sky continues. “Lady Myla Clawd, a female Noorian, and Lady Aelita’s closest friend was with us in her own vessel,  a G-Wing, “The Celestial Witch”, flying and fighting alongside us to fend and hold off the mercenaries. But, for some reason, she left in the middle of the skirmish and jumped into hyperspace.”

Guav croaks, saying not as a question, but being rhetorical that Aelita’s friend just abandoned her at a critical time. So much for being a friend, Guav added.

“That is definitely one way to put it.” Said Sky. “Lady Myla, on the other hand was indeed in fact, a pirate, as well as slippery scoundrel for a smuggler.”

“Why?” Anna asked. “What else did Myla do?”

“Well, as Lady Aelita was flying the Argo to escape from the mercenaries, she placed a task for each member of the crew. But Myla volunteered to do the one part that involved the most risk, by staying behind to fight off the brutes until the Argo Navis made its escape. But instead of waiting for us to make the jump to hyperspace first, Myla left us behind in the middle of the fight. It a number of flaws, lack of weapons being one, with it being a YG-4210 vessel meant of mostly exploration rather than combat despite one gun turret and modifications. Though the shields did hold up for as long as they could, the ship itself wasn’t known for its speed, and hyperdrive was no better.”

“That’s why Aelita needed Myla to stay and hold off the mercenaries.” Anna states.

“Yes.” Sky confirmed. “I never understood how, or even why Lady Aelita considered a woman like Myla Clade a friend. Nor, for the life of me, will probably ever understand why Aelita wanted to keep that ship.” Sky said confused.

Even after many years, that past even still haunts Sky. Anna can see that clearly on the droid, since she’s lived with the same feelings for almost a year. Both she, and someone who was her life long mentor were betrayed as well, and were hunted and almost killed, with her being the sole survivor.

“Sky,” Anna breathed. “what else happened?”

Sky sighs before he starts talking again. “Well, after The Celestial Witch made the jump to hyperspace. We were left behind to deal with the mercenaries on our own, with no other support, very few weapons, and a weak shield generator. Lady Aelita needed assistance at the cockpit, and so Teekay-Five, and I went there to help her. But she only needed Teekay, and sent me to the engine room to repair the backup hyperdrive and shield generator. It was a challenge, but I was able to get the hyperdrive online, but we wouldn’t get far, much less to the rendezvous point. Fortunately, at that time, tracking ships through hyperspace, but, then came another problem.”

Guav croaks, asking what had happened.

“The back up hyperdrive was putting too much strain on the engines, and it not only caused an explosion within the engineering room, but it also made the ship drop out of Hyperspace. I tried to put out the fires, but the extinguisher wasn’t enough to put it all out. I was able to escape by sealing the room, and going back to the cockpit for Lady Aelita, and Teekay-Five so that we, and the other two crew members could make it the escape pods-”

“Hold on,” Anna cuts off Sky. “there were two others, besides you, and Teekay with Aelita?”

“Yes, there were two men.” Sky confirmed. “A Weequay, named Kenntah Ohnaka, and a Kiffar, named Ari Voight. Kenntah was on the upper Lazor turret, and Ari on the lower. One of the modifications Aelita added onto the ship when she first obtained it.” The droid added.

Guav croaks, saying that he’s heard of a Weequay pirate by the name Ohnaka. Then, he asks Anna if he maybe the same Weequay that was on Aelita’s crew.

“I do know of a pirate gang leader by that name, ‘Hondo Ohnaka’. But I doubt he’s the same one from back then.” Anna pointed out.

Guav croaks in agreement.

“Keep going, Sky”. Anna allowed the Medical Droid to keep going with his story.

“Thank you.” Sky said appreciative, yet a bit annoyed. A little warning to not interrupt him again. “Anyways, both sir Kenntah, and Ari were at the Lazor turrets firing to fight off the mercenaries but their guns were destroyed. When I was running to fetch Aelita, and Teekay-Five, plumes of smoke and steam were spuing everywhere throughout the ship and then something struck me on the back of my head. The blow did cause some damage to my circuits, including some of memory, as well as my visual sensors, but I can still see with infrared. Which, by the way I can tell you have a very steady, and moderate temperature, Miss Anna.”

“Okay, thanks for that.” Anna says slightly annoyed.

“I wasn’t out for very long,” Sky goes on. “but when I came to, I saw out from on of the starboard windows that we were about to crash on a nearby planet. As I was getting up, there was a huge thick cover of smoke and steam leading to the cock pit and saw Lady Aelita, Sirs Kenntah, and Ari all fighting.” Sky says with a hint of shock in his voice.

“Fighting? Fighting who? Did one of the mercenaries sneak aboard the Argo?” Anna asks concerned.

“I couldn’t tell for sure; my visuals were still scrambled even with my infrared. I couldn’t for sure who was fighting whom, or for what reason. I nocked my head a couple of times to try getting a better visual. But by time I did, Teekay came speeding through the corridor to get me, and she urged me to get into one the escape pods to evacuate. I wanted to go back for Aelita, to not leave her behind, since she always did the same for us. But Teekay-Five said that it was Aelita who had ordered her to so, and that there was no time to stay and argue. She used her rocket boosters, and arms to grab, to carry, and throw me into the escape pod and then ejected us from the Argo-Navis. We saw the YG-4210 going up in flames as it entered the planet’s atmosphere, but before it exploded. The other escape pods ejected from the Argo as well, indicating that Lady Aelita, Sir Ari, and Sir Kenntah also escaped as well. Teekay was able to run a scan of the pods, and said three organic life forms were in fact in one of each pod.”

Guav croaks, saying that they managed to escape, and that was good news.

“Yes, it was. Unfortunately, the little piece of good news was short-lived when our pod struck one of the high snow mountains of the surface. It damaged our ability to navigate the pod to land somewhere safe, as well as communication to send a signal to any of the other crew. The last thing I can remember, was Teekay magnetizing herself to the floor of the pod, and I strapping myself into my seat harness before we crashed. Then, nothing. At least for a long while. When I finally gained consciousness, I saw that our pod was wrecked beyond repair. Teekay did secure her feet to the floor, but not the rest of her body, and likely all the thrashing was what nocked her off her struts, as well as her middle leg. And, well, I’ve already told you the other part about the repairing Teekay as best as I could, and the crab creature, the cave to.” Sky concluded.

“Are you sure there isn’t anything else you can remember, Sky?” Anna asked concerned. “Was there anything from the pod you salvaged and tried to fix? What about Aelita?”

“Well,” Sky sighed lightly scratching the back of his head with one claw finger. “I did attempt to search the scrap yard for anything to salvage, repair, and use to establish a line of communication. Send out a distress signal, at the very least. So, I did leave Teekay-Five inside the cave when I left to go search, but when I came back, the crab creature returned, and was about to burrow dig its way inside to get her. But while I was away, I did find sorts of things to use to chase the creature away. Some of which were few canisters of oil, some cloth, and lit them with my built-in torch of my old arms and threw a few at the creature. They distracted it enough for me to get back inside the cave, and pull Teekay further inside. But the creature was very aggressive, and tried to burrow deeper to get us. I had one canister left, and I used it to finally chase the creature away. But the explosion caused a cave in that not just chased the crab away, but also blocked our only way out, and debris of rocks and stones broke off both my arms when trying to protect myself. I managed to pull her to a safe space, but it was only big enough for just one of us, and I chose her instead of me. The very last thing I remember was laying on the ground, covered by dirt, and rubles of rock. Facing to Teekay, with only a small streak of light beaming down on us before I was completely out of power. Obviously, we have been there for the past two and a half decades, and waking up to a time where the Jedi are said to be all but dead, and the galaxy being ruled by a dark Emperor.” Sky confessed.

To Guav, the way Sky describes his relationship with the astromech says that they were more than just friends. It’s not something he’s judging, or questioning, but a little unheard of. However, it’s not his place to say, and chooses to keep quiet.

 For Anna, listening to Sky’s story and to what happened to him and Teekay-Five. How they ended up the way they did, and more about Aelita Adell. She was a vigilante for the galaxy, helping others when needed. Trying to make a difference for the better, something that both the Republic, and the Jedi failed at. And whom ever she crossed doing what she did, they were dangerous, no question. But not as dangerous, or deadly than dealing with a traitor. Perhaps more than just one.

From what Sky told them about Aelita’s crew. Myla Clawd, a smuggler, and pirate who deserted them all when she was trusted to be the Argo’s cover to escape. The other two men, Kenntah Ohnaka, who might be a relative to Hondo Ohnaka, and whom might be a pirate also. Jogun fruit doesn’t fall far from the tree. And Ari Voight, a mysterious male Kiffar. Sky said from what he could tell that with his infrared, that both Ari, Kenntah, and Aelita were all fighting each other after ordering Teekay-Five to get herself, and Sky to the escape pods before the Argo-Navis exploded.

Anna ponders her though, and comes to one thing that ties to what happened.

“That was a coupe.” Anna said stoic.

Guav gasped, as did Sky.

“Sky,” Anna says looking at the droid. “you said that the mercenaries attacked your homestead before you all took off in the ships, right?”

“That is correct.” The droid confirmed.

“I don’t suppose it was a secret location, right?” Anna asked stern.

“Yes, of course it was. Only Aelita, Myla, Kenntah, Ari, Teekay-Five, and myself only knew about it. But, Lady Aelita erased our memory banks, always, as a percussion to protect it incase either one, or both of us were captured by scoundrels who’d want to attack it.” Sky assured

“But she shared that information with everyone else of the Argo crew, correct?” Anna aske suspiciously.

“Yes, they did.” Sky confirms. “But, they all sworn to secrecy.”

“But, what would happen if they did share that valuable information?” Anna asked.

It took a moment, but Sky answered her. “Lady Aelita said that she had a way to make them stay silent, but not physically harm them, such as kill them.”

“Well, if she did have a way of doing so. It probably wasn’t enough to convince, or scare them to stay quiet.” Anna concluded. “One of those three crew members knew where your homestead was, and gave its location to whomever hired the mercenaries to attack you in an attempt to kill Aelita.”

Guav croaks, asking Anna if that’s what she thinks.

“Well, think about it, Guav.” Anna told the frogman. “Aelita Adell, was a galactic vigilante, doing all sorts of activities that’ll make everyone who she stood against very angry. She freed prison salves, stole riches from them, as well as other goods to give to the needy. Even took down those who used their influence to corrupt themselves, and others around them to hurt those who couldn’t fight back. I’d say, Aelita made a lot of enemies for what she did, and must’ve convinced either Ari, Myla, and/or Kenntah, or all of them to betray her. Three guesses who, or were they all in on it?”

Guav croaks, reminding her that Aelita rescued people, freed slaved prisoners, reunited families and returned stolen personal valuable treasures.

“Not only that, but likely also stole valuable information of who were in the background, thus who were responsible for it all.” Anna pointed out. “It makes sense on why the person who hired the poachers only wanted the droids.” Anna figured.

Guav asks her to explain.

“Well, despite Sky’s scrambled memory, and Teekay needing special repairs. It’s possible that there’s still information buried in their memory banks. Information about what else Aelita did, and maybe what else she took from them, and probably hiding something else after twenty-plus years.”

Guav croaks, reminding Anna that Sky said that Aelita deleted the location of their homestead memories to protect it.

“Yet, someone of the Argo crew likely betrayed her, and that’s how the mercenaries ended up there in the first place.” Anna points out.

Guav asks where she’s going with this.

“It’s one thing that you’ll need to keep a hidden base hidden, by not sharing its location.” Anna makes another point.

Guav croaks yes in agreement, but also adds as a reminder that after Aelita and the Argo crew were chased off from their base by the mercenaries, and they likely looted everything that was there.

“True,” Anna agrees again. “but what if that wasn’t the only base to keep and hide ‘everything’ there?”

“Yes.” Sky suddenly answers. “Lady Aelita, she had mentioned before about a secondary location that only she knew of, and it was a group decision that she and they all believed it would be safer. Due to the fact, she was the one that established and built the crew. Gave them a chance to not only use their talents and skills for good causes, but gave them a chance at a new life to be a better people. As well as gave them a safe place to call home.” The droid assured them.

“Well, it sounds like someone didn’t think it was good enough for them, and probably why it seems like they betrayed her.” Anna says. “And if anything,” She pauses in hesitation.

Guav croaks softly to Anna, asking what’s on her mind.

“It just. . . It seems to me they probably had valid reasons why things went down on Aelita, and how it likely happened.” Anna suspects. She then noticed Sky’s movement as to protest, and she speaks again. “And Sky, I see that you believe that neither Aelita, Ari, or Kenntah would do anything like that. Myla Clawd, is someone who you had doubts because of her being a pirate, and her abandoning the crew when they needed her the most is definitely something that pirate would do in desperation to live. But if you ask me, maybe Aelita was holding out on them, she probably knew too much and they had reasons why they likely betrayed her.”

“Lady Anna,” Sky gasped. “how can you say such a ling about Lady Aelita?”

“I never knew her.” Anna stated. “I never heard about her before last night, or the kind of person she was before you told us about her. Given what you described that happened the last time you, and Teekay were with her. It just sounds to me that that woman was too good to be true, and she must’ve pushed her luck too far that it ran out.”

“No!” Sky yelled out loud. “Lady Aelita was headstrong, stubborn, and yes, she took unnecessary risks that were dangerous even for all of us. But she wasn’t the kind of woman to ever hold out, or took advantage of anyone of the Argo-Navis.” The droid argued.

“How do you know?!” Anna demanded. “How do you know for sure that neither of the other two betrayed her?”

“Either as an Organic, or a droid, not one person can fully be trusted. However, it was Aelita who did everything she could to ensure that she could be the one they could not only trust her, but believe in her. Believe what she was trying to achieve, and give it to others to the galaxy.” Sky explained.

“And what was that?” Anna asked with doubt in her voice.

“Hope.” Sky said simply. “To not stop believing that there is indeed the spark of light in the vast darkness of the universe. Find the light in the dark.”

That last sentence struck Anna in the heart. Those exact words, that was what Tarren taught to her when she became his padawan as a youngling.

Anna stands up from her spot, and goes to the ARC-170. She places a hand on the haul of the starboard side with her back turned towards Guav, and Sky, trying to hide the tears building in her eyes, and as they flow down her cheeks. Memories flood Anna’s mind of her Master. The assignments both he and she as Thianna did together, the rigorous trainings he put her through, the battles they fought during the war, and the peaceful, quiet, good times they had together.

Yes, there were times that she questioned, argued, even doubted his methods. But she didn’t quit and walk away, even when Tarren made things difficult. Thianna stayed, not only proved to him what she was capable of, but proved to herself as well.

As the kind of teacher Tarren Khal was, he was also the kind of man that had a gentle side at times when she was overwhelmed. Proof, that even someone like him knew when to give care, even when they themselves cannot overlook, or see it as weakness, or rule it as a way of falling to the dark side.

“No matter what.” Tarren’s voice whispers through Anna’s mind. “No matter the whispers of guilt, or mistrust. No matter shrouds of doubt, and misbelief. No matter the shadows of questionable motives, or the storms of intentions. Find the light in the dark, Little Bird. Find the light, Thianna. Fly towards it, and face the storm of darkness.”

Guav croaks, asking Anna if she’s okay.

She doesn’t answer. Then something comes to Anna’s mind, reminding herself another clue of Aelita. Anna walks back to the group, she then looks through her satchel bag and pulls out the green metal tin box. The box that shows a scratched gold image of a bird, or some kind, Anna still couldn’t make it out.

“Sky,” says Anna as she turns towards the droid. “do you recognize this?” She asks.

“By the maker.” Sky gasped. “That was Lady Aelita’s.” He confirmed.

“And, what about this?” Anna asks as she opens the box, and pulls out the crimson, pinkish chained crystal to show.

“Oh my, that was also Aelita’s. She always wore it, and never took it off.” Sky confirmed again.

“Do you know what crystal this is? Or how she got this?” Anna asked.

“I asked about it to her once, and all she said about it was that it was given to her on a planet that was once known as Circarpouse V. Yes, I believe that was it. Circarpouse V.” Sky says in confidence.

“Great.” Anna breathed in disappointment.

Guav croaks, asking Anna if she knows the planet Circarpouse V.

“Circarpouse V,” Anna said. “that was the old name for the planet, it’s now refer to as Mimban. It was once under the control of the Separatists during the war, and the Republic managed to drive them off and established base outposts on the planet. No doubt those bases are now Imperial, and the planet is now under the control of the Empire.” Anna explains.

Guav gasps, and squeak croaks asking Anna in fear if she’s actually thinking about going there to find a clue about Aelita?

“Perhaps.” Anna sighs. “It’s a clue where this came from, and what it meant to Aelita.” Anna says, holding up the chained crystal before putting it back into the box. She does not know what kind of crystal it is, or if Mimban is where it actually came from. But it’s something to keep in mind for the journey ahead.

Guav croaks, asking Anna what she meant by that.

“When it comes to pirates, and outlaws. When they have something, or more things of value, they can’t just keep it in the most obvious place where other would know about. They need to keep it safe enough, where only that one person would know, and can’t take the chance of someone else knowing about it.”

Guav croaks, suggesting that Aelita might have hidden those valuables on Mimban. Maybe even information about that girl she mentioned in the message with Teekay.

“It’s gonna be risky, especially with the Empire there.” Says Anna. “But, in that message, Aelita did seem very worried, and why she was asking my master for help for whatever girl she was talking about. Whether he was able to do or not, it’s time to find out.”

Guav croaks again, asking Anna what she’s gonna do now.

“Well, those Aqualish poachers were after the droids for someone. The one that got away, I’m sure his name was Gweeve, no doubt he’ll either tell the client what happened, or he’ll run and hide for his life.” Says Anna.

Guav croaks, asking what does she mean.

“The client hired them to collect the droids for him, or her. Once Gweeve tells the client about what happened back at the Acclamator, they won’t take it well. I highly doubt that they’ll stop there until the client get his or her hands on Sky, and Teekay.” Anna explains.

Guav croaks, asking her if this will really lead to that.

“If they stay here on Povanaria, no question about it.” Anna confirms. “And no doubt that they will kill anyone who gets in their way. They already know about me, and by now they know about you to. So, you have a choice to make.”

Guav squeaks in shock, asking about him as he points to himself.

“Yes,” Anna answers as she packs up the boxed crystal into her satchel. “so you have a choice to make, right now.” She says straight to his face. “I’ve been fixing this fighter since I’ve been on this planet, and it has enough fuel where I can take you to the next nearby sector. From there, we can go our separate ways. That’s your safer choice.” She points out.

Guav then croaks, asking what is the other.

“That other poacher saw you with me at the Acclamator, and he’ll tell the client about you. You’re not safe here on this planet anymore if you stay, so you’re better off somewhere else away from it all.” Anna explains.

Guav croaks again, saying it doesn’t answer his question.

“The other choice isn’t any better, and it’ll put you in greater danger than you already are.” Anna warns Guav.

But Guav continues to press her into telling what the other option is.

“You come with me, and leave this planet.” Anna stated firmly. “I can’t promise it’s gonna be great adventure. It’s going to dangerous, I can’t guarantee your safety at all times, and you will likely get injured severally, or killed if you come with me. Especially with me being a surviving Jedi, that alone will definitely put you on the Empire’s watchlist, making you a target for them should they know about your involvement with me.” She says laying out straight to Guav as a warning.

It then dawns on Guav. Why Anna never said anything before, and why she’s here on Povanaria of all places. With her being a Jedi, there is currently no Imperial Occupation here, and no valuable recourses here. Thus, no real reason for them to come here at all. The client is not just after the droids, but should he or she contact the Empire about Anna, and from all the stories he’s heard from other pilots who came and went from the Kahtee’s hanger. Especially the ones about those who harbored other surviving Jedi.

But something else comes to mind. One of the stories Guav heard about the Jedi when he was younger, including one detail. The force works in mysterious ways, and it connects us all in somehow for something bigger.

 Guav croaks to Anna, right then and there, he makes his decision. Despite the danger, despite whatever risks that here, and are out there. Sky and Teekay-Five, are still also his droids too because he helped pay for them.

“Guav-“ Anna tries to protest in sincere.

Guav croak cutting her off, adding that the galaxy is a dangerous place to be on your own. Even for a Jedi on the run. So, Guav chooses to go with Anna, not just because of the droids, or the fact that his life is in danger if he stays on Povanaria. But that he wants a chance to make things right for the past mistakes he made here, and everyone who knows won’t let it down and will all sorts of things to remind him of them.

“Guav.“ Anna breathed in sincere again, but not saying anything else.

Guav composed himself, and he croaks to Anna. Saying that he promises to tell her some day what he did, and hopefully she give him a chance to be better than how he was back then. Without all of the judgment, and reminders of it all. Even though maybe starting over on a new planet would be better, it feels like he’s running away instead of facing his problems to solve them. Plus, Guav considers Anna the closest person he has in his life he sees as a friend. And with how things are in the galaxy now a days with the Empire, she could use a friend to.

“So, it is decided then?” Sky asked curiously.

“Yes,” Anna says in her usual tone of voice, this time with a hint of hope. “Guav, you Sky, Teekay-Five, and I. We’re gonna leave Povanaria, and we’re gonna learn the full mystery of Aelita’s message to Tarren Khal.” She says to them all.

“Cause, it’s what he would do, and it’s what he taught me. If the girl Aelita mentioned might not be in any danger, or if she’s even alive. I owe it to Tarren to not let his teachings and lessons die with him, and find out for sure.” Anna says to herself in her mind.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Western Outskirts, Outside of Pulo Village.

Waiting nervously, pacing from one side to the other, repeating the action over and over for the past hour. Gweeve, the lone surviving Aqualish poacher member of Muro’s group, the client contacted him and asked for Muro about the job. Asking if they collected both the medical droid, and the Astromech, and if they were intact. Gweeve, scared out of his wits tried to explain the situation, but the client didn’t want explanations and demanded a yes or no answers about the droids. When Gweeve couldn’t give him one, the client said it right then and there in the commlink to meet him at the location, and threatened him to not even think about running away, saying it’ll be useless and he will find him.

Gweeve remembers Muro telling him that this job will pay big, and that they couldn’t afford to fail. Not only earning a hefty sum of credits for a pair of droids, but a huge reward from the Empire for a surviving Jedi. Forty-Thousand credits from the client for the droids, they were already given half of that amount as a down payment, and were gonna get the other half when the job was completed.

But given the fact that the job was a failure, and from what Muro said about this particular client. This was someone who did not tolerate failure, and dose not take kindly to be taken advantage of.

Both Gweeve, Muro, and all the rest of the hunting party has already aready spend more than half of the deposit for gear, supplies, as well as other stuff to chase away the predators in the swamps that weren’t cheap either. So, when he returned from the failed job at the old Republic ship, Gweeve salvage anything, and everything to get what money he and their cabin had that was money, or at least worth money. That included the groups land speeder, all their weapons, and whatever goods that’s worth money.

With it being Market Day tomorrow, the client shouldn’t have trouble selling it all for not only getting all the money from the down payment back, but also more. It would mean Gweeve would have nothing left, but if the client would let him live, then he considers that over anything else.

Gweeve then hears the sound of a speeder coming. Looking through his binoculars to see ahead, a pair of beaming headlights of a speeder is coming towards his location. It’s the client, and Gweeve stress level just skyrocketed along with his heart pounding, so hard that might just burst out of his chest. Checking the speeder, and everything that is loaded, as well as checking the large pouch of credits he has tucked under his hunting vest. Gweeve takes a deep breath, and waits for the client in front of his speeder.

The second speed comes into view, and when it got close within several yards from Gweeve’s, it comes to a stop. With it’s bright headlights, all that Gweeve could see is a rather large cloaked figure with a hood over his head, covering his face.

“I gave your boss, as well as your whole party one simple job. Bring me two powered down droids for twenty-thousand more credits, and keep the Jedi for yourselves to do as you please. How in the KRIFF! Do you all mess that up!” The client demanded out loud. He really wasn’t happy.

Gweeve then whimpers in his growling language, explaining what had happened. They captured the Jedi, and her frogman companion. They were about to take the astromech, but the medical droid was powered up, and it fought back. The skirmish got out of hand, allowing the Jedi to escape, and fought back also. Most of the group was killed by the droid, while Muro was killed by the frogman, and Gweeve escaped. With just him alone against a capable Jedi, a combat medical droid, and a frogman who is as deadly as the locals say. Gweeve clearly would have been at a disadvantage if he had stayed, a big disadvantage with one going up against three. Especially against someone like the She-Jedi, who could clearly hold her own without a lightsaber.

“Pathetic.” The client said insulting. “The most well know, and ruthless swamp hunters on the planet, were all bested by a broken-down doctor droid, a mere pollywog, and a distraught Jedi.”

Gweeve didn’t argue, or denies what the client says what he thinks. In fact, he doesn’t take any offence, he will take and accept whatever the client wants to call him. Gweeve gets down both hands and knees, he then begs and pleads to the client that he takes everything that he brought. The remaining money, and everything that he brought into the speeder, it is all worth more than what the client paid for the down payment. Gweeve offers to the client that the client can have it all, and Gweev won’t even ask for one single Dezicred. All he begs for, is that Gweeve can leave with his life, and nothing else.

“Well, it is one thing to want to run and hide after failing miserably. As well as act like coward, as to how you managed to survive and escape with your life. Especially when you abandoned you whole party as they died, and you live to tell the tale. Most would just shun you away, and you’d really become the town outcast coward.” The client stated as he walks forward towards Gweeve, as he is still on the ground, not even taking the chance to glance up. The Aqualish knows that the client is right at him, just an inch away from his feet. Sweat is pouring down from his head. “But, unlike those most people, you did the most courageous thing. You stayed, despite the consequences of failure and willing to not just own up to them. But also willing to give up everything you have, and have earned, all to payback a fee as a way to acknowledge your failure. Without a second thought, or care in the whole galaxy of the shame you’re willing to live with for the rest of your days. That, I find admirable.” The client says in sincere. “Let me at least give you a small reward, for the honor of your sacrifice. Rise up to me, friend.”

Gweeve lets out a sigh of relief as he pushes with his arms onto his knees to the clients gaze, expressing his thanks and gratitude with his eyes. But when he did, Gweeve was met with a barrel with a pistol blaster at his face. Before he could act, the client shot Gweeve right at his head, and the Aqualish falls over dead.

“One thing that does pain me, is seeing such souls live such a life by a choice. The one thing I can provide, is the relief of such cruel burden.” The client says with a hollow sincere in his voice as he puts away his pistol into his holster. “But, you’ve also taught me an important lesson too, friend. One, that I’ve should gone by from the start, and probably would have spared you this tough day. That, if I wanted something done right, I gotta do it myself.”

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Hey guys, I know I’m super late to post this lates chapter. Life has been keeping me busy with work, family, and the holiday of The 4^th of July. Also, this chapter was challenging as I was writing out even before I started typing it out. I knew what I wanted to go for, and what direction I wanted to take, but nothing in my notebook seemed to make any sense at the time. So, when it was time to type, I just pretty much made it up as I typed and built the story from there. But I know where I want to take Anna’s story, and what her journey will take her on and what she’ll have to face. Hopefully, this bump made the story interesting, as well as exciting as it did for me.

Be sure to like, follow, share, leave kudos, and comment of what you thought about this chapter. I will do my best to not be late for the next chapter. Thank you all for following Anna’s journey, and may the force be with you, always.

Chapter Text

Chapter. 7

Pulo Village, Povanaria, Outer Rim Territories. 18BBY

It is early morning, and it means it only leaves Anna, and Guav one day to get everything ready, and get off this planet. After both decided to get off world to help the medical droid 2-1B-SK-1, aka ‘Sky’, and his astromech companion, TK-5-C-25, by taking them with the pair. By getting them fixed, and hopefully recover the full message left behind from their previous owner, Aelita Adell.

Aelita Adell, a mysterious woman who once acted as a galactic vigilante, along with both her two droids, and three other crew members. Kenntah Ohnaka, a male Weequay, Ari Voight, a male Kiffar, and Myla Clawd a female Noorian. All whom served to help, aid, even save all those who were being oppressed by those with power and have abused it. A greater good, more than what the old Republic did, and what the Jedi were able to do many years before the Clone War. Or at least, that’s what Aelita believed, before off-world mercenaries found her hidden location and attacked it. What was worse, is that her own crew seemed as though they turned on her. Myla abandoned the crew in the middle of a fight, and both Ari and Kenntah fought Aelita just as their ship the Argo-Navis was about to crash into a planet. But before it did, Aelita was able to recorded a message for Anna’s Jedi Master, Tarren Khal, into the memory of the astromech Teekay-Five, and she then sent her and Sky away to get the message to him.

From what Sky told Anna, and Guav about Aelita and Tarren, is that she considered him a trustworthy friend. However, being Tarren’s padawan, he never once mentioned Aelita to Anna back when she was a Jedi Padawan, Thianna Or’Tiega. Not at all during her apprenticeship as his pupal for thirteen years up until Order 66 at the end of the Clone Wars almost a year ago.

Anna only saw partial of Aelita’s message, saying “Help her, Tarren Khal. You are her only hope.” Anna has no idea who Aelita was, or whom she was talking about in the message, nor has any idea if whoever Aelita is talking about is even still alive, or is dead by now. All she has to go on are two droids, with one being broken and powered down, while the other is functional but with half of his memory intact, along with just his word. The only fragment clue Anna has, is just a chained crystal shard that once belonged to Aelita thar was kept inside a case that Teekay was holding onto for over two decades. The case has scratches and some dents, with just a somewhat noticeable imprint of a bird of some kind. As for the crystal, Sky mentioned that it was given to Aelita on Circarpouse V, also known as Mimban.

Anna can sense the force coming from the crystal, but it is very faint, almost as if life is barely holding on. Something Anna can understand all too well, and probably safe to keep it hidden for now. Herself on the other hand, it seems that the force has another path for her take, one that that she must walk on as a Jedi once again in these dark and uncertain times. A path that is set for her to uncover a piece of a long lost, and forgotten mystery that she isn’t sure that even reached her master before his untimely death almost a year ago.

After discussing with both Guav, and Sky, it was decided that they had to leave Povanaria. With the Aqualish poachers somehow knowing that Anna is a surviving Jedi, though they were hired by someone who wanted the droids and permitted to do with Anna as they pleased. Whomever the poacher’s client is, that is who Anna is concerned the most.

Though most of the Aqualish were dealt with back at the Aclamator, the one called Gweeve escaped and no doubt has already reported back to the client by now. Which is why no time can be wasted, because one way or another, Anna, Guav, Sky, and Teekay all have to get off world today.

Anna explained what repairs she did on her Republic ARC-170 star fighter, and though it can still fly, has some fight left in it, and some of the sensors are somewhat functional. The best alternatives they have now are is either they book passage on a shuttle, or they buy a ship of their own. The 170 does have the capacity to carry all of them, but the droid port is still damaged beyond even Anna and Guav’s abilities to repair, and the hyperdrive isn’t any better. Best chance they have to get any better use from the fighter is to sell it, or trade it. In its condition by Guav’s estimation, it’s worth less than half, and they’ll be lucky enough if they can find something they trade to help cover parts of the cost of a decent ship.

They decided that Anna take the fighter to the town’s docking bay, and talk to the head manager, Lorina and see what they can work out. Anna also decided to sell off her T-85 speeder bike, with all the work and repairs she made on that thing, surely it will go for more than half for what it’s worth, or at least add with the star fighter for what ship they’ll go for. Guav also decided to do the same for his land speeder, and altogether with the star-fighter, the T-85 bike, and the land speeder, they should have enough to at least cover hopefully half the cost of a ship.

Taking the fighter ahead, Anna flew over to her cabin to pack up her the rest of her clothes, and the hidden stash of credits. Some of what she earned from her job, but also an encrypted credit card. A card of her masters making that only she can access and use, and filled with more than plenty of credits to help her as emergency funds. However, with planets like Povanaria that don’t have bank stations, and most people preferred real money or valued goods to accept. So, Anna couldn’t use the card, and had to rely on her job as her main source of income, despite that it didn’t earn her much. The money she has saved is close to two-thousand credits, not enough to cover the cost of a ship, but maybe to book passage on a transport.

Packing up all of her clothes, the money, credit card, and what little rations she has left. Anna packs all the small stuff in her satchel bag, the rest into a duffel bag and she tosses them into the 170. As she starts up the fighter, Anna takes one last look at the cabin and its surroundings. Though she didn’t see it as a home, it was still a pleasant and quiet enough place that was nice. Perhaps one day when others stumble upon it, maybe they will make it into a home they can be proud of, and even create new happy memories they’ll be glad to look back on.

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Pulo Docking Bay

“I gotta say Anna, I’m impressed with all the work you’ve put into repairing it.” Lorina complimented. “But I have to be honest, you’re not gonna get much out of selling it. The best I can suggest is trade it, cause by my estimation, this fighter is worth about twenty-thousand credits.” She explains.

“Okay,” Anna sighs, disappointed at the light-blue Twi’leck’s estimation, but reminding herself that she wasn’t expecting much, and can’t waste time negotiating on just the fighter. “well, what about the land speeder, and the bike?” She asks.

“Well, individually, you’re looking at fifty-five-hundred for the speeder bike. As for the land speeder, ten-thousand.”

Guav croaks outraged, he argues that it’s worth eighteen-hundred because that’s how much it took to fix it himself.

“Eighteen-hundred, huh?” Lorina asked curious. That kind of work, with that kind of budget, that’s actually impressive.” The Twi’leck compliments. “Ten-thousand, five-hundred.” She offered.

Guav grunts no, then says he wants at least fifteen-thousand credits.

“Eleven-thousand.” Offered a higher prince blunt.

Guav turns down the offer, and demands for fourteen-thousand.

“No way.” Lorina protests. “Twelve-thousand, that’s my final offer, and guarantee that you won’t find anyone who’d even think of buying anything from you. Plus, if you leave now, then that offer is out the window.” The Twi’leck warns with a slight smirk.

Guav becomes worried, knowing the kind of reputation he has around Pulo with him being accident prone, and whatever else that Anna does not know. It definitely would give them more trouble to try and sell of his speeder, and they can’t spend the whole day trying sell it. It’s definitely good for a trade, but knowing most of the people when it comes to Guav they’ll likely rip him off the first chance they get and they’ll be in more trouble.

Guav swallows his pride, and croaks to Lorina saying that he accepts her price offer.

“Good, that settles that.” Lorina says proudly. “I promise, by the end of the day, you’ll have enough credits to ‘maybe’ book a shuttle off this mud ball today.”

“What do you mean by ‘maybe’ today?” Anna asks curiously.

“Well, even though Povanaria isn’t much, and one of the last places anyone would want to live on. It isn’t exactly a place that most pilots would stop for very long, booking passage off this dirt clod isn’t cheap, and you wouldn’t have long to make it to your transport. So, your best chance to get off this planet is having your own ship.” Lorina explains.

“Why is that?” Anna asks.

“Well, thanks to the Pirate Gang that roams the system. They’re the ones that patrol and approve of who and what vessels come in and out, as well as what cargo they carry. Hell, they’re the ones responsible for Market Day, and also why the Empire hasn’t occupied Povanaria already. They even brought in some vessels to trade, or sell off here, some of which are freighters.” Lorina explains.

Anna thinks back the day when she saw Hunter and Echo, and remembers them saying they had run-ins with pirates in the area before they were able to land. She also thinks back to when she first came within the system, and her own confrontation with bandits that caused damage to both her fighter, and her astromech R7-D4. She wonders if they’re all part of the same gang, and likely whomever hired the Aqualish poachers, and perhaps found out how Anna is a Jedi.

Anna also thinks back to the day before she finds Sky, and Teekay-Five, both she, Ro, and Kell all worked together to fix up a an R2 Astromech that day. At first, the Rodian client wanted the droid fixed some days later, but then demanded Kell that they fix the droid before the end of that very day. Kell said that it was a gift to his boss, and he wanted it functioning perfectly, and cleaned spotless. Thankfully enough, they got the job done, and droid was indeed working perfectly. So far, there hasn’t been any known trouble for Kell, so safe to say they’re satisfied with droid and the work done.

Though Anna didn’t give any though of who the client was, or who is really is in charge of things here on Povanaria. Just mainly focused of not getting noticed, or cause a scene that’ll give her away. Obviously, someone who knows enough to place a bounty on droids that once belonged to Aelita Adell, and Anna being a Jedi to hand over to the Empire. More than enough reason she, Guav, and the droids need to leave today before things too dangerous.

“You said some freighters?” Anna asks casually to Lorina.

“Yeah, why? Are you interested?”

“Depends of what you have available.” Anna says sounding intrigued.

“Hm.” The Twi’leck chuckled. “Well, you may just be in luck. I have a few here that you maybe interested in.” Lorina points out as she walks towards the field of starships and freighter.

Guav urges Anna to follow her, and see what she has. Though Anna doesn’t condone to stolen vessels, now isn’t the time to be picky about where they came, or how they were accuired.

“Sky,” Anna says to the droid. “you stay here with Teekay at the gate until we come back, arlight? And don’t cause a scene.”

“Yes, Lady Anna.” Sky complies

Anna nods to the medical droid, then she and Guav walk with Lorina following her to the ship yard. Sky stands by the booth at the entrance gate with Teekay-Five, who lays on a hover cart still powerless. He gently puts a clawed hand on her purple cone dome, wishing he had hands instead. At least he would be able to stroke his closest, and dearest droid companion as he did before and not risk scratching her.

“Not what I had in mind to when they repaired me, but I can’t complain. They are hands none the less.” Sky rhetorically says to Teekay, knowing she cannot reply back. “It is logical for me to even comprehend, and perhaps even impossible. But if you can hear me, Teekay. We are in a very dark time right now in the galaxy, and there is indeed more dangers than what we had to face before with Lady Aelita, and the crew of the Argo-Navis. And.” Sky contemplated for long moment with his thoughts processor to say the right words. “it’s about lady Anna Tython. I don’t know for sure. She has lost so much, and has clearly been through more than what Aelita had in her time. Other than what she has told us-“ He pauses to correct himself. “What Anna has told me, and sir Guav. It just seems to me that there is much she refers not to say or tell, and it’s clearly a burden to her. Yet, from what she was taught from as a youngling, it is no wonder why she will not say much else. Almost like what Lady Aelita had to face in her youth, before she went down the path. Though it’s had been many year’s, and it may seem impossible. But, I sincerely hope that Lady Aelita is still alive, and she would help us unravel what mystery she has only shared with you. And maybe, in some strange way. This coming journey may help Lady Anna over come what struggles, and challenges she is facing. I can only hope that Master Khal had taught her well.”

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As Anna, and Guav follow the Twi’leck Lorina through the yard of ships. She points out to each ship, from a Quad Jumper transport, to Razor Crets gunship, even a few Republic Star Fighters that still fly. But, they were all far out of their price budget of what they sold their speeders, and Anna’s ARC-170 Starfighter. All three combined, they’re only working with the amount of twenty-seven-thousand, five-hundred credits. Though there are few that looked to be in better shape, they are too far out of their price range. As for the others, they needed a lot of maintenance that would definitely set them back much further than from what had before.

“There are quite a few ships that would do you perfectly, that is if you don’t mind being cramped up together that involves sleeping while sharing a cockpit.” Lorina jokes as she chuckles. “But seriously, unless you can come up with another twenty-plus thousand credits, you’re not gonna get much with what you’re trading for. But at least let me show you something that just came in last night.” She points out ahead.

Guav looks at the ship, and is in awe. Anna sees the ship, she is also impressed, and is familiar with model and make. It almost reminds her of an upper-class woman’s hand fan if held the right way, and were often used as fashion accessories, and to help keep them cool in hot weather. This vessel does look sleek, and has a similar engine to the Corellian YT series, but this isn’t a typical Corellian ship as far as Anna knows.

“Behold, the Kazellis-Class Light Freighter. Fresh off the assembly line, so in other words. Brand. New.” Lorina introduced the pair to the ship. “And if you think the outside haul is something, you gotta look at the interior.” Lorina leads the way towards the Kazellis and acrivates the boarding ramp to go inside.

“Twenty-eight meters length wise, navigation computer, moderate speed of a thousand kilometers per-hour, with a Class-two and a backup Class-twelve hyperdrive. It was developed by Kazellis Corporation, but was recently driven out of business, thanks to the Empire, and were only able to produce at least several hundred. So, this is pretty much a rarity in the whole galaxy.” Lorina explains some of the stats.

Guav croaks, asking as they tour around the acceleration couch about the how many pilots does the Kazellis needs to fly.

“Oh, just one pilot.” Lorina answers, point towards the cockpit. “Yeah, there are three stations in the cockpit for the pilot, a co-pilot, and a Technical Station. But this ship just needs one pilot to be operated more effectively, especially when you need a couple of gunners to fend off whatever trouble you get yourselves into.”

“Gunners?” Anna asks.

“Yeah, there are two quad laser cannons on both the Dorsal and Ventral sides of the Kazellis. If you think the fire power is helpful, there’s also plenty of spaces. At least up to three to four passengers, at least what the brochures tell you, but this ship is very spacious for more.” Lorina goes further into the interior, pointing where the Quadex Power Core is, as well as the ladder to both laser cannons are as they tour the corridor. Also showing where the Maintenance crawl spaces are, the accommodations of the gally, a room for engineers next to it with two bunks. “If you want to take out one, that’s up to you. But there’s still plenty of space for more people, with a room for two or four crew members with four bunks.”

“Four, huh?” Anna asks a bit interested.

“That’s right, but there’s also a room for storage that also leads to the shield generator, and the best room of all, The Captain’s Quarter’s.” Lorina points out as she opens the door to show the room. “It is rather large, almost like the crew’s quarters, but it houses to at least one person. Or maybe two if you decide to have company from time to time.” The Twi’leck smirks as she glances over to Anna, but the human woman doesn’t pay any mind to her as she looks inside the room. Feeling a bit disappointed, Lorina’s smile fades away and moves on to the next rooms ahead. “Over here is the Main Haul,” Lorina says blunt. “that hatch door in the middle of the floor is the service elevator that leads down to the lower Cargo Bay. Over here, we have the medical bay, and here’s a treat for ya, it’s equipped with a single bed, and vertical bancta tank.”

Guav croaks to Anna in whisper, saying the Medical Bay would be perfect for Sky. Adding that he is a medical droid after all, so it would make sense that he could stay in here. Anna nods a little, but doesn’t say anything.

“In the back room, is a machine shop where you can repair your droids, or ship parts. There’s even a space in the shop that hasn’t been said of what to do with, but you’ll figure out something.” Lorina suggests.

“Huh. What makes you think we’ve decided on this ship?” Anna speculated.

“Well, let just say I have a way of setting tpeople up with the right ships. And, I have a feeling that the Kazellis will do you perfectly.” Lorina says confident.

Anna glances to her with a suspicious look, and Lorina clearly sees that she doesn’t trust her words.

“Plus, that money you won the other day can pay majority of the second half, if you-“

“Wait.” Says Anna, cutting off the Twi’leck’s sentence. “Money that ‘I’ won? What are you talking about?” She asks confused.

“You don’t know?” Lorina asks, now also confused. “Didn’t Ro’ran tell you?”

“Tell me what?” Anna repeated confused.

“The day before yesterday, the bet that Joel was putting together for the Riot Race that was happened on Sofa Toma? You betted on a human racer, with strange looking Republic Clone Armor?” Lorina explains to Anna.

“Yeah, what about it?” Anna asks suspiciously.

“That guy won the race, that also meant that you won the bet, and all the money that was paid into it. Over Twenty – Thousand credits.” Lorina says.

Guav gasped in surprised, and Anna is in shock. She doesn’t know what Tech, or the rest of Clone Force 99 are up to, or where they are. But apparently Tech hasn’t lost piloting skills, nor his ability to esses situations, and adapt to environments instantly to keep a calm cool mind and conscious under stress. It was a surprise for Anna to see Tech in the race, and she just wanted to be out of that parlor before Hunter and Echo recognized her. At that time, Anna didn’t pay too much attention to the bet or the race, but not suggesting she doubted Tech. She just didn’t want to cause a scene with Joel’s pleas, or take a chance of being noticed by clone troopers.

“I’m sure how much exactly was there, but definitely that would cover most of the other half.” Lorina repeats.

“Okay, I understand that part.” Anna says. “What about that money, does Joel still have it?”

“Oh no, it’s not there anymore.” Lorina answers. “With Joel, any bets that he puts up, whom ever wins, they have to be right there to collect. If not, it goes right to his parlor.”

“So, what does Ro have to do with this?” Anna asks suspicious.

“Well, normally Joel wouldn’t allow for this sort of thing to happen. But, Ro was able to convince him to let that Abednedo take the money and give it to you when you guys got back to work at Kell’s shop from your lunch.” Lorina explains. “Saying that you’ve been having it pretty hard, and that that money would probably do you good, whatever you diced. I’m just surprised that he hasn’t given it to you yet, cause that’s unlike him.”

Anna doesn’t say anything. She’s worked with Ro for a long while now, and though they’re not exactly friends, he has been looking out for since she’s been on Povanaria. Plus, thinking back to that day, Ro’ran was trying to tell Anna something, but she was too caught up with what happened with Guav at Kahtee’s hanger that she didn’t let him talk about what happened.

“Lorina, listen.” Anna says. “Do you need payment now, or can we hold off for a little while? At least just for a few hours?”

“This deal is only good until I find someone who’d buy it, and pays in full. I’ll still hold onto your speeders, until you get that money sorted out with Ro. But, I’m sure he’ll give it to you if just go and ask.” Lorina says optimistic.

After they finished talking, the trio exit the Kazellis and Anna and Guav joins back with Sky at the gate.

“Were you successful? Do we have a ship?” The Medical droid asked.

“We might,” Anna sighs. “But were still short on how to pay for it.”

“How?” Sky asked worried.

Guav croaks in whisper, saying that they still need over twenty-thousand credits. Both their speeders will cover at least half the cost, but they still need to pay for the other half.

“Lady Anna,” Sky looks to her. “surely you, and your master must’ve had some sort of hidden funds that can cover the rest of the payment.”

Anna reaches inside her satchel, and pulls out the Credit Card to show them.

“At least just a couple hundred – thousand credits on this device, but Lorina won’t accept it.” She says as she puts the card back into her satchel.

“What? Why not?” Sky asks in worry.

Guav croaks, explaining that most people in most places in the Outer Rim won’t accept anything in the form of a credit card or tool, unless you can actually pull-out physical money. And no where on Povanaria is there a credit dispensary machine anywhere, even if you do have the funds to pay. Basically saying, whatever you have, is what you’re left with to use as payment.

“Part of the reason why I had to sell parts of my last astromech, and why I had to work for Kell to earn money.” Anna confirms. “I have the funds, but I just couldn’t access them and why I had to scrape by for as long as I have. I had to save what had, what I earned, use my own skills to get I needed, such as hunt for food, and light repairs to a couple moister vapotators at my cabin. I did have more credits on hand, but over time they depleted what I do have and didn’t considered pulling out more than what I needed until now.”

“So, what do we do now?” Sky asks.

“Well, we may have another way to get the money we need before it’s too late.”

“Wonderful.” Sky says cheerful.

“But,” Anna says disapproval. “I have to go somewhere I thought I didn’t have to go back to after yesterday.”

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Kell’s Droid Repair Depot Shop

Though it is early morning, and Kell said if both Anna and Ro both worked today. Even though it would’ve seemed that she worked for little pay, despite how Kell made it sound by the sale he talked about. However, it’s surprising to see the shop to yet opened even after Kell demanded in his own way that he wanted both Anna and Ro in earlier to work. By now, she would’ve been fired right on the spot and not give a Womp Rats ass about how unfair he would’ve treated her.

What was really going through Anna’s mind, is the day she participated in the Riot Race bet, and that night afterwards when she purchased Teekay-Five and Sky.

Anna didn’t pay much to place a bet, just one Dezicred that was worth less than one credit. But, Joel didn’t turn it down, Ro didn’t discourage Anna then and he stayed to watch the race at the parlor since he also betted as well, but he went for another racer. Even if out of his good conscience, no way Joel would give that winning bet money away to someone like Ro.

Then comes to when Anna and Ro meet back at the shop. She just got back from Kahtee’s hanger bay, after she berated and firing him for the PIT Droid mishap. Anna recalls what happened, and he did not once bring up who won the Riot Race, not before what she told him about Guav, not after the talk when the shop reopened from the lunch hour. Later, after Kell comes back, he checked both the droids and told the price for the medical droid to Anna after he told them about Market Day sale deal. Yet even then, Ro never brought up the winning bet money to Anna. Not before she said she was buying them, not during when negotiating prices with Kell, and definitely not while she, and definitely not when she and Guav both bought the droids with him paying the remaining Seventeen – Hundred credits.

Somethings going on, and Anna needs to talk to Ro. She was taught to be vigilant, to keep her guard up, and to not trust anyone. Though Guav, and Sky have become exceptions, while Teekay is still powerless, she can’t figure out Ro’ran. But, it’s clear enough that he is hiding something, and it isn’t just the credits Anna won from the bet.

Guav and Sky follow behind Anna, while Guav pushes a hover cart with Teekay laying on it. They head right for the droid shop, they don’t see anyone around, and even more so there was no yelling from Kell to be heard. That was rarity, almost a first time.

Anna walks up to the front door and bangs on it with her fist a few times.

“Kell!” Anna calls out loud as she bangs the door again a few more times. “Kell, it’s ‘Scar Girl’!”

“Scar Girl?” Sky questioned. “That is a bit odd, even for a ‘Nickname’.”

“Yeah well, it’s one he answers to with me, and what he usually calls me by.” Anna answers as she bangs the door once again.

“Hey, hey.” A familiar male voice calls out. “Unless you want to give yourself a hand injury, that’ll surely give Kell reason enough to fire you before you even started working.” Ro’ran chuckles.

“Hey, Ro.” Anna greeted. “Where is Kell? I thought he’d be opening the shop by now.” She asks.

“Yeah, he would be, but he’s running a bit late this morning.” Ro’ran answers rubbing the back of his head nervously. “But, in a way it buys a little time of peace for us hearing his loud routine morning complaints, wouldn’t you agree?” The Abednedo jokes. “Ah, I see you got your medical droid fixed up and functional.”

“Hello,” Sky greets himself, waving to Ro’ran. “I am Two-One-Be-Es-Kay-One. But, you may refer to me as ‘Sky’.”

“Huh.” Ro breathed. “Nice to meet you, Doctor Droid.” Ro pats Sky on the shoulder. “So, is the mech just in sleeper mode, or is it still not working?” The Abednedo asked.

“Yeah, she’s gonna need to be taken to another mechanic. Someone with much better skills sets than my own.” Says Anna.

“Is that why you’re banging for Kell?” Ro asks as he joked a little.

“No, but if he did, I highly doubt he’ll be able to do it for free.” Says Anna.

“Oh, not wrong there. He’s a ‘Slimo’, but he’s an Ugnaught, and he has the skills of an expert Droid Smiths, it is what they’re known for after all. If not, he might know someone who can.” Ro explains as he suggested.

“Well, even so. He would still cost me a hefty some that I don’t have right now.” Anna jokes as she spoke the fact. “Still, we’re not here for Kell.” Anna says as she turns to Ro’ran, and she senses something off about him. “I’m actually here to talk to you, and I want to make it quick before Kell gets here.”

“Sure kid, what’s up?” Ro says delighted.

“Well. . .” Anna starts off nervously to Ro’ran, voice sounding a little shaken, fidgeting with the arm sleeves of her duster coat. Part of her training as a Jedi Sentinel Investigator, is that when trying to get a person of interest to talk, you have to act in a way that makes that person reliable and get them to open up just a little, but enough to get what you need that doesn’t involve using the force. “it’s a little weird for me to even bring up cause of how I am.” Anna says in a nervous. “The other day at Joel’s?”

“Yeah?” Ro asks back.

“We both placed bets on the Riot Race that was being, you went for one racer, and I went for another. But, you know that I didn’t stay to watch, because I left.” Anna explains.

“Yeah, I remember.” Ro confirms. “You left to rush to give Guav his tool kit back, and you weren’t really interested in the race. You also said something, about you had bad luck when it comes to gambling.”

“That’s right.” Anna agrees. She then also hears creaking and light knocking somewhere close by, reaptedly, and Ro sees that she’s notices.

“Uhg, those damn critter varmints again. They always act up by this time of year.” Ro’ran excuses. “Shall we?” He gestures to Anna, allowing her to enter the shop.

Anna definitely senses something off about Ro, but she can’t refuse or eve suggest that they continue talking outside. Also, she senses someone else inside the shop, someone in trouble.

“Okay, sure.” Anna agrees nodding her head. “Hey Guav,” She then looks to her friend. “why don’t you and the droids wait out here whi-“

“Noncense.” Ro cuts her off. “It’s said to be a nice day today, but it’s no reason to keep guests waiting outside while it’s still early.” Ro insists as he opens the door. “Besides, Kell will have my head if I left people waiting outside waiting to open up.” Ro says delighted. “Though you, and I both know that even though this place doesn’t get much traffic, it’ll still be a common civil courtesy thing to do, don’t you think?”

Anna couldn’t argue or question with Ro. There is definitely something about that doesn’t seem like him at all, and even more so, he’s involving Guav, and the droids. Who’s ever in danger inside the shop, Ro is bringing in four others into it. However, whatever will happen inside this shop, it has to stay inside as to lower any chances of being noticed from the outside at this time. She nods to Guav, allowing him to go inside.

Guav croaks saying okay and thank you to Ro’ran, nodding his head as he walks inside, pushing Teekay with him.

“Thank you, Sir, Ro’ran.” Sky greets as he follows behind Guav, while Anna waits at the door with Ro.

“After you.” Ro’ran gestured to Anna, giving permission to let her in first.

Civil curtousy, yes. Being a gentleman, of course. Hiding something that isn’t good, most definitely.

“Thank you.” Anna says sincerely as gives a short half smile walking through the door.

As she joins up with Guav and Sky, they all stand by at the center display table while waiting for Ro.

“I don’t know what luck you had before you came to this planet, Anna. But when that race was over and you were gone, I guess that was the kind of good luck you get when you leave the room.” Ro chuckles as he locked the door and takes off his backpack. “Yeah, even though Joel was against it, I convinced him to let me hold onto that money for you. I would’ve given to you sooner, but I saw that look you had when you told me about Guav, and what happened with the PIT’s. I just thought it wasn’t a good time. Then, you went and decided to buy those droids, I thought that it was bad call, even if I had given you the money. But, at least you got one of them working without it, especially what you went through yesterday.”

Guav croaks, about to ask Ro what he meant by that. Saying that they never said anything about yesterday. When Guav turns around, he turns sees Anna with her hands raised, as well as Ro holding a blaster pistol to the back of her head.

“Rais’em up, kid. Don’t make this harder than it already is for me.” Ro commanded.

“Guav, just do it.” Anna says calmly.

“You to, Doc.” Ro tells Sky.

Both Guav and Sky raise their hands, while Ro’ran searches Anna and pulls out her blaster from her holster, her vibro knife from its sheath, takes off her duster coat and tosses them all on the ground.

“I’m surprised.” Says Ro as he finishes searching her and takes her wrists in his hands to put on binders. “I always heard Jedi never carry such weapons, other than their lightsabers. Guess, you got rid of it? One way to protect yourself from everyone else, is to not have such a thing in hand, huh? But, it also makes you pretty vulnerable if the force isn’t your ally. And given your luck recently, the Force is definitely not with you, kid.”

“Let me guess, you were the one who hired the Aqualish poachers on us?” Anna asks as a stament. “You knew about the Republic Acclamator in the Danger Zone Swamp, and figured that the Poacher Party would’ve been capable enough to handle the job?”

“Not bad.” Ro’ran confirms as a compliment as he finishes cuffing her wrists behind her back, and sits her down on the ground. “Though, I mainly wanted the droids. I thought you be able to escape with Guav, but leave the droids. Jedi are meant to help others, but not to have attachments, and I just assumed it was about ‘things’, and not getting too involved with people. Then again, Jedi aren’t known to be straight forward.”

“How did you figure it out?” Anna asks.

“Let’s just say, I have eyes and ears in numerous places. Places, you yourself suspected but never really pursued to prove.” Ro’ran says.

Anna glances up to the shelves and ceiling, and she then figures it had to be the droid heads all round, acting as cameras. The night she stayed in the shop to watch Guav, she used the force for the first time in a long while. The one-time she broke one of her most important rules, and now it has really caught up to her.

Guav croaks to Ro as he cuffed his wrists, asking why is he doing this. Asking If it’s about the other night he stayed, and the PIT droids making a mess, but swears that he and Anna cleaned and straightened everything before going to sleep.

“Listen, kid. It’s nothing personal towards either one of you. Hell, I have no love, nor hate against the Jedi. Even you, Anna.” Ro states as he glances to Anna. “It’s was a shame for what happened to your Order at the end of the Clone War. But from most of the stories I’ve heard, it sounded like they were far from noble, and honorable ‘Peace Keepers’, they claimed to be. Of course, I didn’t wish them ‘all’ dead. Just that they finally got a real wake up call.”

“Did you know the whole time? Since I came here?” Anna asked.

“Of course not.” Ro answered. “But then again, how you were when Kell was at you for whatever reasons. You just standing there, and didn’t even flinch to even flick a finger at him. That should’ve been the number one obvious thing, but I just thought you were raised well, and learned firm discipline from your family. I guess, I was only partially right.” Ro explains as he finished cuffing Guav.

He then moved on to Sky and placed a restraining bolt on his chest, and the droid didn’t fight back. If he had, then the situation would get worse than it already is.

Anna can still sense that same presence she felt from outside, it’s inside. It’s still rattling around. She also looks around, tries to figure a way to get out of this. The only thing she can do, is to keep Ro talking until she can figure out a plan.

“So, what now?” Anna asks. “Are you gonna turn me over to the Empire? Take whatever reward, or favor they offer?” She guesses.

“Hmm,” Ro sighs. “the Empire would pay handsomely for a living Jedi, such as yourself.” He says with confidence. “But, I have no intention of doing that. Not even to you, Anna.” He confesses. “For one thing, I like you. You’re just an orphan woman who lost everything, and everyone you know, and have been having a hard enough life for a while. Second, nobody wants to give the Empire any reason to come here to Povanaria anytime soon. Ever, actually. Which brings me to my third reason why I need the droids.” Ro says as he turns to stare down at Anna.

“And what’s that?” Anna questioned, as she reaches out to the jar of scraps with the force with her hands cuffed behind her back.

“Well, has the Medical droid told you about Aelita Adell?” Ro asks

“What do you want about her?” Anna demands.

“Personally, nothing.” Ro says simply. “But, these droids. They use to be hers, and there’s a huge bounty for any information on finding her.”

“I’m afraid that I do not know the current location or state of Lady Aelita’s whereabouts.” Sky confesses.

“Besides,” Says Anna. “she hasn’t been seen or heard for over twenty years. So, what makes you think that she’s even alive after all this time?”

“Well, the pirate leader of this system, as well as my old boss seems to believe that she may still be alive.” Ro says confidently And when I called him about the two droids, he sent me what I needed to use to collect them from you.”

“The money you paid to the Poachers.” Anna points out.

“That’s right, but you were the bonus if they ‘actually’ got lucky enough to capture you and hand you over to the Empire. But, clearly you out bested them, and I spent my morning selling off some of what they had to get what money I could back. Though, none of Riot Race winning money you won I spent on them.” Ro confessed.

This surprises Anna. She did overhear Muro mentioning that the client did pay twenty-thousand credits upfront, and said that they’ll get another twenty-thousand when they brought back the droids.

“Why didn’t you use that money?” Anna questioned.

“Because you, and Guav need it more than I do.” Ro says simply. “Don’t get me wrong, I was tempted. But then realized, that I already have enough money saved up, despite Kell’s shop being one bad investment. There are still riches out in the galaxy, riches that are still hidden because of Aelita, riches that even benefit you as well. If you decide that you want in.” Ro offers. “If not, then you can have the race winnings, plus a little some to buy whatever ship you want and leave all of this behind. Either way, I won’t harm either one of you, and both you and Guav can leave here with enough to start new lives somewhere else.”

“The only catch, I hand over Teekay, and Sky.” Anna stated.

“Well, I don’t see why you’d keep them, and if you did. What’s the point?” Ro questioned. “You have no connection to Aelita Adaell, and you don’t want anyone else knowing about you being a surviving Jedi, especially the Empire. So, I’d say you have a pretty good offer I’m giving you, kid. Leave the droids with me, take both the winning money, and whatever number of more money you need to get off this planet. And, I give you my word. I won’t tell my boss about you, we won’t hunt or pursue you. Hell, I’ll take everything I know about you to my grave.” Ro taunts. “So, what do you say, Anna? I doubt that’s you real name, but it doesn’t matter to me.”

“It is too good.” Anna thought.

“You’re right.” Anna says, shrugging her head down, not meeting the Abednedo’s eyes. “I don’t know Aelita, just that she and someone I knew were acquainted. Some of the things he taught me didn’t always make sense, or why it even mattered. Including a message, she tried to send to him, and questioning myself why it even matters now, after all this time.

“I’m guessing, your Jedi Teacher?” Ro asks curiously as he crouches down to Anna.

Anna doesn’t say anything nor looks at Ro’ran, she just nods her head up and down, meaning yes. “Yeah,” Anna breathed. “and, I even questioned if I should even bother looking into something from a time when I was barely even born, from someone whom I never knew or even met. Especially since the Jedi Order is gone, all the people I knew are all dead, like my master, and the rest of the galaxy would either turn me over, or just abandon me like the people believed both during the war, and the years before that. I have nowhere else to go, and will constantly have to look over my shoulder, as well as keep having sleepless nights that end up with me screaming my head off. Wondering if either the fear of the Empire, or my own night terrors will kill me in the end.”

Guav croaks loudly to Anna, saying that he won’t do that to her, and that she can trust him.

“Lady Anna, I do understand what you are processing. But you can not jus-ssssssss.” Sky tried protesting, but was cut off by the shock from the restraining bolt again.

“Huh. I’ve always heard Jedi don’t get nightmares.” Ro assumes.

“All people get nightmares, even the Jedi. So, don’t believe ‘everything’ you hear.” Anna scoffs as she confesses while looking at Ro.

“Huh, well I guess that makes you the first to have the decency to admit it out loud to the rest of use regular folks. I respect that.” Ro complimented. “It also sounds like, that all you want is just to have a chance to end it all and be free from the burden, and whatever guilt you’re carrying.”

Anna doesn’t say anything, she just slowly drops her head down as she nods yes again, not meeting Ro’s eyes. Ro then reaches out with his index finger and thumb to her chin, and lifts Anna’s head to look at him, but her eyes don’t meet his.

“You may have trained as a Jedi,” Ro says soft. “but it’s not a bad thing to put yourself first, especially in these trying times, Anna. The Jedi aren’t just gone. They, are no longer needed by the people. So, you don’t need to go on whatever quest you were thinking about. You have a chance to finally to think about your own life, and your own well-being. No one here will, nor even should judge you for putting yourself first.” Ro urges Anna. “Tell me, kid. Wouldn’t be good to finally let your past life die with the rest of the past, and be free?”

Anna then looks at Ro with sincere.

“So Anna,” Ro says soft. “are you finally going to put yourself first?”

At first, Anna doesn’t say anything. Her expression makes a subtle change to think briefly before speaking.

“You know,” Anna speaks soft. “there were times during the war. During my training, years before the war broke out. When I was a youngling Jedi at the Temple. I can even vaguely remember when I was orphan girl before the Jedi found me. I often wondered what life would’ve been like if things could’ve been different, if I had made different choices throughout my life. Now, I’m given a choice that’ll defy my life from here on out.”

Guav croaks Anna’s name in a whisper. Looking to her as to plead her to not believe him. When he was about to beg, Guav then notices in the air above. A large bucket filled with scrap parts floating in the air, he recognizes it from the high wall shelf above him and Sky. Ro doesn’t notice it; his sight is still set on Anna. Guav then understands, Anna is keeping Ro focused on her so he won’t see what is attempting to do to get out of this situation. She’s using the force to make the bucket float.

“And, I can only trust that you’ve made the right choice.” Ro says with relief.

Anna chuckles. “You can say that.” Anna says with a half a smile. Almost a smirk.

At that very instant, the bucket falls from the air and drops right onto Ro’s head before he glances and could act to move out of the way in time. He the Abednedo topples over onto his side, Anna at the same time stands up quickly and uses the force to flip and jump to Sky, and Guav.

As Ro shook off the dizziness to get backup on his feet, Anna uses the force again to pull her knife into her hand and uses it to pry the binder cuffs off her wrists. Of course, it’s not without difficulty and struggle, and when Ro got to his feet and is about to reach for his blaster. Guav rushes to get up on his feet, and reaches for Ro’s blaster using tongue to pull it away. At the same time, Anna broke the cuffs apart, as well as her wrists. She reaches her hand out with the force and pulls her Westar-34 pistol, then aims it at Ro as she sets it to stun. Ro charges for Anna, but she shoots a couple stun blasts at him. The Abednedo then drops down flat face out just a foot away from Anna.

After a couple of seconds of no movement from Ro’ran, Anna then turns to Guav to use her knife to cut the cuffs off his wrists. Then, she moves on to Sky to pry the restraining bolt off his chest plate.

“I must say, Lady Anna. I am very impressed of how you handled yourself and escaped, almost just as Lady Aelita did in her time.” Sky complimented. “I guess Master Khal really was a great Jedi Master to you.”

“Well, the knife trick,” Anna breathed as she wedges her knife to pry the bolt off. “I actually learned that from a Clone Trooper during the war.” She says as the bolt came loose, and she threw it away.

Guav croaks, interrupting their conversation. Saying that though it was really amazing to see Anna use the force with the bucket, the flip, her weapons without touching them. But now they had a much bigger problem, aside from Ro’ran before he regains consciousness.

“Guav’s right, clocks ticking with Ro’s former Pirate boss on the way coming after you, and Teekay-Five.” Anna says looking at Sky.

Just then, they hear the same tapping as Anna did earlier. Guav croaks, asking where is it coming from.

“Let’s take a look around.” Anna says to Guav. “Sky, tie up Ro’s arms and legs.”

“Yes, Lady Anna.” Sky complies as he stands up and takes Guav’s cuffs to put them on Ro’ran.

Anna, and Guav follow the tapping sounds to find out where they’re coming from. They listen closely, and the sounds lead outside, where they find Kell tied to a wood post, and his mouth gagged.

“Kell.” Anna breathed in surprised, but a somewhat subtle relief.

Anna goes to him to slowly take off the mouth. Until she’s mid-way, Anna rips the piece off instantly causing a bit of a stinging pain on the Uhgnaughts lips.

“HEY!” Kell yells aloud. “That hurt!”

“You’re welcome.” Anna says blunt cold as she puts away her pistol in her holster. Then uses her knife to cut his binder cuffs loose.

“Where’s Ro?” Kell questioned.

“He’s knocked out.” Anna says blunt.

“Listen, I gotta get outta hear.” Kell says pannicing. “Ro’s former boss is on his way here, and he’s gonna be big problems if I stay here.”

“I’m guessing the pirate is the one you owe money to from that Riot Race?” Anna questions as a statement.

“I really was planning on paying him today, I swear. But, Ro called them over sooner before I was getting things ready to open, and for another reason involving those droids you bought.” Kell explains in his panic. “But, now that I think about it. I say this ones on you, Scar Girl.” He insults.

“Hm.” Anna scoffs. “Well, in that case.” Anna stands up, putting away her knife before she cuts loose Kell’s cuffs. “My crew, and I should just get going, while the getting’s good. So, good luck paying off your debts.” Anna spats as she turns to walk away from the Ugnaught.

“No Wait! Wait, wait, wait. I’m sorry. Please, please, please. You can’t leave me here.” Kell pleads to Anna as her back is towards him. “Please Anna, I’m begging you. You have no idea how ruthless these guys are, and their leader. He’s a cold, cut throat killer, that just even the smallest speck of dust on his coat from a random person’s direction. He’ll shoot them dead right out in the open, and crowds will freeze in fear within miles of his presents.

“Then, maybe you shouldn’t had made bets if you didn’t have money to pay it all forward.” Anna says coldly. “What did you expect would happen when you lost those bets? With your history, you should’ve learned this about yourself at your age by now.”

“Alright, fine! I’m an arrogant, over-confident, stupid, racist, stiffly slimy slimo!” Kell confesses aloud. “Please, I’m begging here. I’ll give you anything.”

“Lady Anna,” Sky calls from the other side of the door as he comes out. “Ro’ran is tied and binde as you requested. I also found this pouch of credits in what I believe to his satchel at his work station.”

Guav croak, saying credits. He then asks Sky to see how much is there, and if it enough to cover the rest of the payment for the ship.

“I already have, sir Guav.” Sky says. “Twenty-Thousand, and two-hundred credits.”

Guav croaks, asking how much do they owe to Lorina for the ship.

“Twenty-thousand, and five-hundred.” Sky reminds them.

“So, we’re still three-hundred credits short.” Anna points out disappointed.

“And that’s not even including the charge for fuel, water, and registration. All that together, you’re looking around two-thousand credits, more or less.” Kell pointed out as an insult.

Guav then spots something behind some bushes several feet away, covered by a large somewhat worn-out camouflage tarp with some small holes. Guav croaks to call Anna over, and the two work together to remove the tarp, and they see that it’s the Aqualish Poacher’s Land Speeder filled with rations, weapons, and other goods, such as clothes, animal hides pelts and heads (trophies). Ro must’ve dealt with the poacher who escaped, Gweeve, and stole all their goods to sell off and to get back the money he paid them for their job that ended in failure.

“Guav, how much would you say all of this is worth?” Anna asks her friend.

As he looks around, Guav croaks. He says that everything there is pretty much more than enough to cover both the second half of the ship, as well as the additional costs for fuel, water, and registration.

“Fuel, and water.” Says Anna. “We can worry about registration later. Let’s take all this, and trade it to Lorina.”

“Hey! What about me?!” Kell demanded.

“I think it’s time you paid your dues, Kell.” Says Anna. “So, consider me quitting as of right now.”

“No! Wait, please!” Kell begs.

“I could leave you with the pelt, that should be enough to cover some of what you owe.” Anna teases.

“Are you kidding?!” Kell asks in a panic. “I’ve seen what the Aqualish poachers do to their trophies, and they’re worth much less than an ounce of spice combined. I can’t give the pirates that.”

“Then I guess it’s time for you to face the music.” Anna says as she and Sky walks inside to get her things, and Teekay-Five.

They come back out, and Guav climbs into the speeder about to start it up when Kell yells out again.

“I also heard that you need to find another droid mechanic to fix up your mech, and I know how to connect you to one!” Kell yells.

Anna stops mid stride, but she doesn’t turn around.

“I said before,” Kell says in a calm tone. “finding someone with that kind of skill with droids is practically legendary, and not easy to find. But I may know a way to get you get on the right direction.”

Anna then turns towards Kell. She walks towards him and crouches down to his eye level. “How?” Anna asks.

“Cut me loose, and take me with you off this mud ball planet. Then, I’ll talk. That’s my offer.” Kell demands.

Guav croaks, saying Anna can just use the Jedi Mind trick and make him talk.

“Giav!” Anna snaps, and he covers his mouth with both hands realizing his mistake too late.

“Jedi mind trick? What, you think you’re some-”

“You will tell me what you know.” Anna says calmly as she slowly waves her right hand across over Kell’s eyes.

“No, I won’t.” Kell states.

“You will tell me what you know.” Anna repeats the same command and action.

“No, I won’t!” Kell states again aloud. “Unless you didn’t get far with whatever schooling you had, you should know that us Ugnaughts are immune to mind tricks. So, you should really think carefully about what I’m offering you. Plus, if you are what the frog boy said that you are, then keep in mind that you can’t make me forget. Imagine what else I can give to the pirates, just to save my skin. Also, there’s that policy your people had about how they ‘don’t kill unarmed men’, and your droid said that he’s tied up.” Kell explains to her with a slight grin.

Anna’s blunt expression remained unchanged, but she became concerned. There was so much she had to consider, and there wasn’t much time to talk and debate about it. As much she didn’t like it, Anna pulls out her knife and holds it up to Kell.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Pulo Village Ship Yard.

Mid-day has come, and no time was wasted. Both Sky, and Guav finish loading up the food rations into the Kazellis as the ship was currently being fueled up. While Anna, and Kell worked together to pump water into the septic tank, almost reaching the top level.

When Anna freed the Ugnaught, they made a deal that if she freed him and take Kell with them off world. He agreed that help them by taking them to somewhere to meet someone who can help fix Teekay-Five, in exchange they take Kell with them off planet free of charge. In addition, they part ways when he after they reach that first stop, he has no claim to their ship, and swears that he will never speak a word about to Anna to anyone. He agreed to the terms, and she cuts him free. They act fast by taking the Poachers land speeder, and some of their stuff such as their trophies and clothes at several different places to sell off, all under two hours.

Kell is a slimo, but really, he does have a talent to make sales for a decent number of credits in a short amount of time. For the rest of the Poachers belongings, such as food rations, and weapons. They kept the food rations, but sold most of the weapons to a sporting good shop. As for the skin pelts, turns out they’re all fake, just for interior décor and why they were in poor shape, so Anna threw those away. Kell was able earn enough money to pay for everything to Lorina at the ship yard, except for the ship registration, which took a bit of an extra cost for the Twi’leck to ‘skip’ and just get right over to everything else.

The pumping of the fuel was finally completed, same for the water, and everything else was loaded up onto the ship. Sky straps down Teekay within the Medical Bay, as Anna goes to the cockpit, followed by Kell, along with Guav.

“So, where is it that we’re going? And who is we’re going to see to help with Teekay?” Anna asks as she starts up the ship.

“You’ll know as soon as we ditch place, and get as far away from this system, ASAP. The sooner we do that, the better the chances the Pirates will miss us before they even realize it.” Kell urges.

As he was about to typing into the navigation computer, Sky takes hold of his before it touches one button.

“Hey!” Kell gasps.

“Need I remind you that you are a passenger, aboard “Lady Anna’s’ ship. Therefore, you have no position to be part of this crew, nor give any commands of how to proceed.” Sky states as he pulls the red headed Ugnaught out from the Technical Station seat and the droid sit himself there.

“You want to know where to go, or not?!” Kell asks out of complaint.

“Unless you think your cut of the money from selling off Poachers stuff will be enough to settle your debt to the pirates instead. You tell us where we’re going, and Sky will put the coordinates into the Navi computer.” Anna demands as she turns her pilot chair to face Kell’s terrified expression.

Just then, an alert sounded on the computer monitor. Guav takes a look, and sees that a rather large ship had just came out of hyperspace. Radar also shows that four smaller vessels just departed out of the larger vessel.

“Oh no.” Kell breathed in horror. “We have to leave, now!” He yells.

Guav croaks, asking if that’s the pirate’s ship.

“What do you think, genius?!” Kell says in panic. “Take off, get us in the air, and get us outta here!”

“Tell us where we’re going.” Anna demands to the Ugnaught.

“TAKODANA, OKAY!” Kell yells aloud. “J-16 IN THE TASHORE SECTOR OF THE WESTERN REACHES, MID RIM!”

“Sky, can you fly this ship?” Anna asks the medical droid.

“I flew numerous vessels before, including the Argo-Navis. This Light Freighter will be no issue, even with these claws.” Sky answers as he pinches his hand claws.

“Okay, strap Kell into one of the Accessway seats, then take the controls in the Cockpit and fly us outta here.” Anna commands as she stands up from the pilot seat.

“What?!” Kell complains, but Anna ignores him.

“Guav, you help Sky. You’re the copilot.” Anna tells him as she heads over to the Gunwell ladder.

Sky brings Kell over to the one of the seats in the Accessway and straps him in tight. Kell says some pretty harsh things to the droid, but Sky ignores him as he takes the ships controls and lifts off heading towards to the overcast cloud cover. Guav follows his lead as he also The radar goes off again, indicating two of the smaller vessels are trying to hale the Kazellis to respond.

“Unidentified freighter, you’re not permitted to enter or leave this Aerospace without proper clearance. Hold your position, and identify yourself at once.” A man’s voice commanded.

 “Don’t answer, Sky. Just keep flying.” Anna commands using the ships intercom from the dorsal side lazer cannon.

“I repeat, hold you position and identify yourself immediately. Or, you will be shot on sight.” The man repeats.

“I think I’ll be better off in an Imperial prison, than deal with these pirates!” Kell complains again.

“Do not fear,” Sky says calmly. “I have dealt with this sort of scum before. I know how to outmaneuver when in combat.”

“Oh! Do ya, doc?!” Kell expreses rhetorical.

“Final warning. If you don’t comply, we will shoot you down.” The man says his final warning.

“Sky, if you got some tricks that can help us. Now’s the time.” Anna commands.

Just then, a lazer blast shot out for the Kazellis in midair, but the alert went off and Sky managed to miss it. When he did, he sped forward where he saw a break in the clouds and saw three fighters flying towards them. But the droids maneuver the ship to avoid them, by diving down into the clouds that only bought a minute for him to activate the ship defenses of the. Both Anna, and Guav also activate their lazer cannons and prepared to fight the fighters off. One came into view on Anna’s monitor, when she took aim when the fighter shot three shots. One hit the rear deflector shields, and Anna fires back driving it away.

The two see the fighters again on their monitors, and Anna takes aim. She fires back at the fighters, but ends up still missing them. Anna takes aim again, and shoots back at the three fighters all coming from the same direction. She was only aiming for one, but when she shot it, it hits one of the other two, and they both go up in flames. The third fighter disappears into the cloud cover.

By the time the Kazellis makes it pass the planets atmosphere, the pirates ship also comes into view and Anna gets a good look at it. It’s a Modified DH-Omni Supply Ship, it’s a recovered Separatist vessel.

“Sky, did you calculate a rout to the coordinates for Takodona?” Anna asks the droid through her headpiece com.

“I have, Lady Anna.” Sky confirms.

“Then punch it!” Anna commands. She also spot the third fighter again, as well as three other reinforcements all firing at the Kazellis.

By then, Sky has already set a course for Takodana and pushes three levers forward activating the hyperdrive. Guav watches in amazement, because it his first time going into hyperspace. Seeing all the stars in front of them, come and merge together at one central single point in the abyss of space. Multiple light of blue and white of the starts light their way on their journey. In that instant, both Guav, the Kazellis makes its just jump into hyperspace.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Pulo Village, Kell’s Droid Depot Repair Shop

A large horde of Pirates all wait both inside, and outside of Kell’s droid shop. Along with Ro’ran sitting on a large barrel, with a couple other pirate crew members stand beside him. Soon enough, an air transport hales down from the sky above and the horde breaks apart to make way for the incoming crew. Ro sees this, he stands up from the barrel to walk over to the clearing as the transport lands.

The walkway ramp lowers down, and one figure wearing a large cavalier hat with many feathers on his head. Clothed on dark greenish blue coat, black shirt with gold embellishments, dark brown, knee high boots. A cutlass sword hangs on his left side, and a pistol on his right. The Captain of the pirate crew.

The captain walks toward Ro’ran, and the Abednedo bows his head to greet his former boss.

“Captain,” Ro greets. “it’s been a long time.”

“I was surprised to hear from you, Ro’ran. Especially during your retirement” The Captain replies. “From your transmission, you said you had something good to show me. Something promising.”

“I did.” Ro breathed.

“And?” The Captain asked.

“The two droids, that once belonged to Aelita Adell. The 2-1B Medical Droid, SK-1, and the R4 Astromech, TK-5-C-25. They were here.”

The captain winced in shock when Ro’ran says the numbers of the two droids. Numbers he hasn’t heard in a very long time, nor he ever though that he’d come close to finding his long-time enemy who was thought to have died years ago. As well as any hope, no matter misguided it seems as of now, to finally find Adell’s most prized treasure.

“You said, her droids ‘were’ here?” the Captain asked softly.

“Yes,” Ro confessed. “but they were recently purchased by a coworker of mine here at the shop. At first I didn’t know, until the mech had a power malfunction and showed a partial recording of Aelita. She purchased the droids, and got the Medical droid working, but its memory bank is shot. So, I doubt it remembers much.” Ro explains.

“And the Astromech?” The Captain asks.

“It’s powerless, and it need major repairs internally. So, the girl doesn’t know everything.” Ro confirms.

“Girl, you say?” The captain asks.

“My ‘former’ coworker here. Anna Tython. Or, at least, that’s what she calls herself these days.” Ro explains.

“What are you saying? Is it not her real name?” The captain asks.

“No, and here’s the most interesting part.”

“Oh, do tell me.” The captain urges his former crewmate.

Ro leans into his captains ear and whispers. “She’s a Jedi.”

“Ah,” The captain sighs in satisfaction. “That, is very interesting.”

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Okay, I really had to put my mind to work on this one. Things at my work were crazy so much, that I was too stressed to finish writing this chapter in my notebook. I was stuck in writers block so bad, that I had to stop writing in my notebook and just make up as I typed up this chapter. Though, I guess I got a little carried away due to how my goal date drew closer, and how long this chapter is. But I do hope that this chapter is to your liking, and I would love to hear your thoughts. So, be sure to leave comments, leave kudos, and share this story with anyone and everyone who loves Star Wars. Thank you, and may the force be with you, always.

Chapter Text

Chapter. 8

Kazellis Light Freighter Cockpit, Hyperspace, Enroute to Takodana

After managing to out maneuver the pirates on Povanaria, as well as shooting down a couple of their fighters. Anna, and her company with Guav, Sky, Teekay-Five, and her former employer Kell were able to escape aboard their new ship ‘The Kazellis’. From what Sky was able to determined, they were able to lose them once they made the jump into Hyperspace, and are now making their way to a planet call Takodana.

Anna climbs down from the Gunners Access ladder, and joins everyone else in the cockpit. Despite some grunts of unfriendly phrases. Kell is still alive, breathing, and in one piece. Considering the kind of trouble he’s gotten himself into with his gambling debts to the Povanarian Pirate Gang, he’s hoping to get as far enough away long enough to buy time to disappear.

Guav croaks to Kell, asking how could he gotten himself this deep in dept, and to pirates of all people.

“What can I say? I thought I was on a hot streak, and thought I could make it big.” Kell tried to excuse himself.

Guav croaks, saying in a joke, Kell ended up burning himself down with owing money rather than winning it instead.

“Why you little-“ Kell grunts.

“Enough!” Anna Calls out aloud from the cockpit entryway. “Don’t forget Kell, you begged me to help you to get you off Povanaria. So, don’t give me a reason to change my mind if you cause anymore trouble than what we’re already in.”

“If you had, who’s to say that I wouldn’t had joined Ro-“ Kell spoke, trying to counteract Anna’s fact.

“You were already in enough trouble with your gambling debts,” Anna spat, cutting of Kell. “so I doubt your shop was worth enough to pay it all back if you hadn’t just left it. Or, if you wouldn’t had to cut mine, or Ro’s pay by so much for months that you might as well just fired us both. Despite you called Ro your ‘partner’, you weren’t much fair to him either. So, I highly doubt he would’ve vouched on your behalf, given that he called his old boss and crew not only for me, and my droids. But, also collect on your debt, or take off your head instead as collateral.” Anna lays down her speculations straight away.

Judging by Kell’s expression, he is growing more nervous and frustrated at Anna’s accusations. He then he comes up with a thought, but Anna catches it instantly.

“I already know enough about the ‘Pirate Queen’.” Anna states sternly before the red curly head Ugnaught could utter a sound. Even the word pirate made Guav squeal in fear, Anna can sense it but paid no mind. “I know she’s been running things for around a thousand years, while also keeping neutrality to any and all scoundrels who enter her system. I know she has a talent of knowing things about person just by looking at them. Things that people had buried so deep down into themselves, thought that they lost it and forgotten themselves that they’re hiding something. I also know, that if word about you, or I heading to her system when she has a very strict policy about ‘Not Causing’, or ‘Bring any Trouble’. I intend to keep to that policy, if ‘you’ don’t give us so much as fuss of complaint before we get there. Otherwise, you don’t have to worry about getting there. We can just leave you at the nearest uninhabited planet, so I we won’t have to worry about you telling anyone about us.” Anna says as a warning pointing at Kell.

Folding her arms across her chest, Anna looks at Kell with a cold, unhinged expression. There were things that came to his mind, things to use to make the scarred face human girl bend to him. The fact that her mind tricks don’t work on him almost brought smile to the Ugnaughts face, and wanted to find out what else he could use against this so-called Jedi. However, Kell trembles and shivers by the way Anna stared at Kell. The look from her blue river eyes, made him feel like that she would instantly grab hold and drown him should he take one step closer.

What Kell is feeling all over him, the look from Anna said it all. No matter what he thought about saying, it wouldn’t matter to her. Something about her made the Ugnaught see that she wasn’t like any of the Jedi he’s heard about. Also, since the Order is gone, there is nothing that would stop, or even hold her back from ending him permanently should Kell pursue to tackle Anna further.

For the sake of his own life, Kell swallows his pride and lets those ideas fade to the back of his mind. Sensing his cooperation, Anna as quietly as possible, lets out a sigh of relief as she straightens herself and leans back in her seat. Not from pleasure to finally get Kell to see that he has no more authority over her anymore, and that his both his fate and life are in her hands. But as assurance that he won’t give them trouble until they reach Takodana. At the very least, not much.

After that tense discussion, Guav shows Kell to the lounge area and play a game of Dejarik to help him at least lessen his stress a little, as well as help him get a little comfortable. Kell isn’t a friend to anyone of them, but he isn’t their hostage. One of the lessons of intimidations Anna picked up from her master, is by striping one of their securities is the thought without shelter. Kell acted higher above most others, because of his choices and how he went about life by the money he earned back at the droid shop. Not caring how his choices affected others, and what it really cost them as well as him.

Though Anna had chosen to leave the life she had to endure on Povanaria, she didn’t think Kell would have a role in this part of her journey. Any of it at all actually. She didn’t give him much thought to how thing would have been if they were different, there wasn’t any point to it. Kell is here with them, and they just need to make it to Takodana, and they need to talk to whomever this ‘Pirate Queen’ is. Anna has heard stories throughout her Jedi life from various people and places. But Anna has never actually met this particular pirate in person, only her master has.

Sitting in the copilot seat, Anna picks through her pocket and pulls out the small green tin metal box that holds the strange crystal supposedly from Mimban. If this Pirate Queen does really have a talent with seeing certain things in people, maybe she might see something about this kyber crystal. They are living beings too, so maybe the queen can give Anna some idea of what exactly it is, and what it really meant to Aelita. Maybe even something about how Aelita really knew Anna’s Master, Tarren Khal.

At the same time, Anna’s vision starts to go blurry, and her eyelids becoming somewhat heavy. She rubs her closed eyelids, trying to rub away blur and make her vision clear again.

“Excuse me, Lady Anna.” Sky says, breaking Anna’s train of thought causing her flinch a little.

“Yeah, Sky. What is it?” Anna asks as she slips the box back into her pocket.

“Forgive me, but there are two matters that I must discuss with you.” The medical droid says with concern.

“Okay, go ahead, Sky.” Anna sighs, straightening herself up in the copilot seat.

“First, the course I calculated to take us to Takodana. It is a long way to travel, even through lightspeed.” Sky explains.

“Okay?” Anna questioned.

“So, the course we are currently on, it does involve making at least one stop. One I believe will be necessary.” Sky confirms.

“Necessary, how?” Anna questions, crossing her arms and legs.

“Well, though we managed to escape the Povanaria Pirate Gang. There is still the chance that they may have scanned the Kazellis, and may have a reading of the ship’s signature. So, I think it would be in our best interest to stay ahead of the pirates, by stopping at the halfway point, so I can make the essential modifications.” The droid explains.

“What kind of modifications?” Anna asks.

“One that saved, Lady Aelita from time to time. Scrambling the ships signature key.” Sky said. “Often times, crime lords, and gang hordes used methods, and lethal weapons against Aelita, including tracing an opponent’s magnetic signature of their ship, and use that to their advantage.” Sky explains. “Fortunately, Aelita thought of a way to elude her enemies by making a slight adjustment to the signature key of the Argo-Navis. By doing so, she was able to scramble the ships signature whenever she needed to, and no one was able to trace the YG-4210.”

“Up until someone betrayed her, and sold her out to mercenaries.” Anna reminded Sky.

Sky ignored that remark and continued. “It would be wise to do the same modification to the Kazellis, once we stop at the location at Station ORS - 134. It will likely require a bribe to keep docking bay owners from scanning the ship, but it would provide the necessities we will need to not only to perform the modifications. But also, to refuel, as well as it should also have a credit dispensary for you withdraw funds from.” Sky points out.

Anna thinks. She had been to Station ORS - 134 once before, with Master Khal, to a place to withdraw funds. But she hadn’t been there since during the war, and didn’t go there after Order 66 because at the time she already had enough money she though would help her get by. Though she already has some money on hand, it’s only enough to cover fuel refill at least twice over. Now, it looks like she’ll have to use that second refuel to bribe whoever’s hanger they’ll land in to keep from scanning their ship, or ask certain questions.

Anna also recalls a report she read back during the early months of the Clone War, specifically the Battle over Christophsis. The Republic was testing a prototype stealth ship, to avoid detection from Admiral Trench of the Separatists to bring supplies to the planet. Though the field test was considered to have been a success, how it was achieved was less than ideal. Especially by the one was flying the ship, Anakin Skywalker.

Thinking about that event on Christophsis, Anna consider’s what Sky is suggesting. If they have any chance of reaching Takodana without too much trouble, they’ll have to make the stop at Station ORS – 134, so Sky can make the modification to the Kazellis’s Signature Key.

“If we do have to make the stop,” Anna begins to ask. “how long should it take for you to modify the signature key?” She questioned the medical droid.

“Well, I will need to locate to the key for starters.” Sky began. “Depending on where the key is, and how far it is built into the ship. Normally, it would take at least two hours.”

“Normally?” Anna questioned.

“Well, before it was either Lady Aelita, and myself working on the Navis. Or, it was just me when I had ‘hands’ instead of ‘claws’.” Sky shows his claws to Anna. “I can log into the Kazellis’s schematics to locate the signature key, and make the adjustment myself. However, I will need assistance to get to it, and put parts of the ship back in order once the adjustment is complete.”

“Guav can help you.” Says Anna. “With his experience from his old work place, as well as building his old land speeder himself. Guav can help with getting to the signature key.” She recommended.

“Very well then.” Sky accepts Anna recommendation of Guav.

“Now,” Anna begins. “the second matter you wanted to discuss.” Anna reminded Sky.

“Yes,” Sky answers. “I am curious. When was the last time you slept?” Sky asked.

“The night before Guav, and I took you, and Teekay to the Acclamator.” Anna answers simply.

“For how long?” The droid asks.

Being somewhat hesitant, Anna ponders through her thoughts. “Around, maybe six hours. More, or less.” She answered.

“And, the night before that?” Sky asked.

Again, Anna thinks, rubing the temple of her forehead. That was the same night that started it all. The night that both Anna, stayed to watch over Guav at Kell’s shop. The same night, that Ro’ran caught her on camera using the force by using the hanging droid heads to record it all. The same night, when the Astromech was malfunctioning, and Anna unintentionally came across the partial recording of Aelita’s message for Anna’s master, Tarren Khal. A message that somehow has such an influence on her, and Anna is now traveling through the galaxy once again on a quest to understand what girl or woman Aelita was talking about, and what reason she ask for Anna’s master for help.

“I don’t know. But, probably not enough for long” Anna confessed. Remembering that night, Anna was too caught up in her shock from hearing Tarren Khal’s name that she didn’t know when she went to sleep until the next morning when Ro woke her up. Likely Anna didn’t sleep for long, but she sure was being haunted with unpleasant dreams that seemed peaceful, and comforting at first. “Why are you asking, Sky?” Anna asks.

“Well, given by basic standard programing. I am required to observe, and monitor all matters of one, and all over-all health factors. From small minor needs, to catastrophic priority urgency.” Sky explains.

“What are you trying to explain, Sky?” Anna asks with a slight annoyance in her voice.

“Well, given that my memory bank that is in need of repair. I can still however, detect even the basic needs for one’s own physical health, including, your own basic needs.” Sky explains to Anna. “By my scans, due to very little rest to recuperate from your daily activities of recent days, the confrontations with the Poachers, acquiring the Kazellis, facing your former traitorous coworker, and eluding his pirate associates. Though most important, you being up all night before the events of today. All leading to your current health level that is concerning.”

“What’s your point?” Anna asks, becoming a bit more annoyed as her eyelids are becoming heavier that it is becoming a challenge for to keep them open.

“Basically, you haven’t been properly resting. By my scans, you seem very fatigue, under much stress,” Sky explains firmly, as he clamps one of his pincers claws loudly closely to her ear without noticing. That causes Anna’s eyes to snap open, as well as flinch and pushing his hand away from her ear. “and you are not keeping eye contact with me, due to heavy eyelids. That alone, is a common dynameter of exhaustion, due to lack of sleep.” Sky confirms being cocky.

“Well,” Anna begins to speak, trying to keep her slight frustration down to the bare minimum. “given the fact that you kept track of ‘all’ that happened over the last twenty-four hours. It should be known, even to you, that I had a lot going on, and there wasn’t exactly a good time, or place to stop and sleep.”

“Agreed.” Sky says. “However, given the fact that we are now in possession of decent, perfectly functional, and a spacious vessel with plenty of sleeping quarters. Also, by my calculations, it will be a very long while before we reach our destination on Takodana. Which basically means, you now have the time, and means to actually, and properly sleep, and rest. In Order to be ready to whatever you might face next, giving yourself the chance to recuperate so both your body, as well as your mind can best help you.”

Anna doesn’t argue with the medical droid, so she takes the ‘Doctor’s Order, and goes to the Captain’s Quarters to sleep. Sky has set the auto-pilot to continue the course, but he will monitor the instruments, as well as keep watch over Guav and Kell. All while Anna sleeps.

Anna enters the room with all of her belongings. She sets them down in the nearby closet, pulling out her clothes and putting them in drawers, and her bags on the drawer top in the closet. A space meant for longer clothes to hang up on hangers, garments and essentials she does not have yet. There are some wall hooks on both sides of the closet, and Anna hangs her brown leather duster onto one of them. Just as Anna was about to close the closet door, something instantly comes to her mind that sets her sight on her sling backpack. Something she has packed away for almost a year, since the night of Order 66. Something she was conflicted with herself, because it was a reminder of her master, and whom she had lost.

Anna then closes the closet door immediately, and walks over to the sink of the privy area. She turns on the water faucet to fill her hands with water, and splashes it on her face to wash herself of all dirt and sweat. Anna does this a few times until she is finally cleaned. When she dries off her face, Anna then looks at her reflection in the mirror, mainly at her face scar and being remined. Not just how she got it, but who it reminded her of who had similar scars.

There is more on why Anna hasn’t slept much. It was more than just sleeping very few hours, or at all due to circumstances. But also, something that she hasn’t talked about to anyone, not even a mention to Guav. Things she didn’t mention to either one of them back at the cave.

First, though Sky remined her that his memory bank does need repairs, Anna still does not know much about the Medical Droid, and is unsure on how to be around him after if or when his memory does get restored. So, she isn’t that comfortable to being open to the droid yet, despite her willingness of taking him, and Teekay-Five in.

Lastly, her nightly terrors in her sleep. With Sky being a droid, Anna has doubts that Sky would even understand on how to help her, or what they mean. It was highly doubtful of how a droid could help someone like Anna of how to rid herself of her nightmares.

To the Jedi, they claimed that they never got nightmares, and that dreams will fade away in time. At this point on the subject, that is pretty much a lie. As for time, it is never specified of how long for dreams to end. Anna fears that she may never be strong enough to be rid of her nightmares, and they will forever haunt her mind.

Still, Sky was on point about Anna showing signs of exhaustion, and she can’t fight it any longer than she already has.

Anna then goes to lay down on the bed on her left side, her head resting on the pillow pad. Taking in several breaths through her nose, and then exhaling from her mouth. Anna finally relaxes herself, closing her eyes and her breathing slowed to a calm. Anna is finally sleeping.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

There is nothing. Nothing in front, nothing behind, nothing all, and no one around. It is just Anna, alone in the endless void of space filled with stars.

“What am I supposed to do?” Anna asks herself, with no to reply back. “What am I even doing? Where am I supposed to go? Who am I supposed to turn to?”

Anna stands alone in the starlit void, clenching her fists as they tremble frustration.

“Why did I even make that choice?!!!” Anna screams out to the void, her voice echoing through the distance.

Just then, sounds of a bird’s screech arose from the void, followed by strong flaps of wings. When Anna turned to see where the sounds were coming from, all she spots is a single feather slowly flowing and swaying in the air. Floating, and making somewhat a few spins during its descending, Anna holds out her right hand with an open palm in front of her and the feather comes to a gentle land. She instantly recognizes the feather, and knew which bird it belonged to.

“Nyla?!” Anna calls out as she turns around to look for her.

When she turns, Anna is no longer standing in the void of space, but in a familiar setting. An area she has not seen for close to a year, but a place she has been to before. A chamber that only few of those that were considered to be the strongest, but also the wises amongst their peers. Anna is standing within the chamber of the High Jedi Council, and she isn’t alone.

All the members of the council are all here as well, however, most of these council members are different from the last time she stood before them. Because, some of these members had died years prior to the Clone War, and during the war. Aside from them, there is still one other face that stands before the council, and they all have their sights set on her. Anna turns to see who the council is looking at, and it is her younger self. Eight-year-old Jedi Initiate, Thianna Or’Tiega.

Thianna with her original long, dark, wavy blonde hair with the lower half loose, while the top half is tied with a single braid behind her head. The young girl is dresses in the traditional attire of a Youngling Initiate. Bark brown trousers, with matching leather boots that go up to her knees. She is dressed in two layers of tunics, with the first is a white under tunic with long narrow sleeves. Second, a light shade gray outer tunic with wide sleeves. Over the tunics, is a dark shade tabard, with a dark brown obi, and a dark brown leather belt that match her boots.

The young girl stands in the center of the council, with all eyes of the seated council members on her, as well as her two lightsabers strapped on both sides of her belt. Right then and there, Anna knew what this particular summons is about.

“Why you are, you know, Youngling? Hmm?” The Jedi Grand-Master, Yoda asks the young girl.

“No, Master Yoda.” Thianna answered.

“We have summoned you, in regards of the resent training mission you, and your class embarked to Illum last week. Regards, that involves you building a pair of lightsabers, and your, ‘Familiar’.” Master, Mace Windu explains with caution and mistrust.

“According to your three friends, Tutso Mara, Lyn Rakish, and Baylan Skoll.” Master Ki-Adi-Mundi in turn spoke in a calm manner, yet somewhat concerning. “When your transport was struck, causing it to fall out of hyperspace. Professor Huyang instructed you all to give him your kyber crystals to hold onto for safe keeping, did he not?”

“Yes, yes he did.” Thianna answered a little nervous.

“But you did not. Is that correct?” Windu asked.

“I was about to, but everything was happening so fast that we were already rushing to get to the escape pods. I didn’t realize that I still had my crystal, that by the time our pod had crashed and we didn’t have any way to establish communication. That was when I noticed that I still had my crystal, but it broke.” Thianna explains with a slight tone of worry in her voice.

“It broke?” Master Adi Gallia asked.

“Yes.” Thianna answered. “At first, when I found the crystal it was sort of in one piece. It was, as if two were stuck together, and why I was having a hard time constructing my Lightsaber.”

“Intergrowth Crystal.” Said Master Plo-Koon. “Twin crystals that often grow either when they meet at contact, or stress from one stone that can cause another crystal to grow. A commonly known occurrence, and how they tend to fuse together over a long period of time, or stress to cause one stone to grow from another.” The Dorin Master explains to the whole council chamber.

Anna listens, and she to this day will always be grateful to him for explaining that fact to the council. As wise as the high council members were up until the end of the war, it amazed Anna even during her training of how much they over looked things, or didn’t consider other possibilities no matter how small, or insignificant they were.

“When you, and your group were in the escape pod. Your chaperone, Orla Yoli was aboard with all of you in one pod, and Huyang was with the second group in the second pod, correct?” Windu asked.

“Yes.” Thianna answers.

“But your pod was also struck, by what you described. An adolescent Purgil Whale?” Windu continues to ask the questions.

“Yes.” Thianna answered.

Anna has had replayed this whole meeting over, and over in her mind over the years, and is still annoyed to this day. Yes, though it sounded like a child’s imagination, it was what she saw, and it was what happened. How else could their transport been structed, while in hyperspace, and been forced out?

There are few known creatures to live and thrive in outer space. One sort in particular, have been told and known to jump and travel through hyperspace on their own, the Purgil Star Whales. Especially in large numbers in a single pod.

Though Master Windu was a highly respected member of the High Council, next to Master Yoda. There were times, even for Thianna during her training years when she, and Tarren were summoned to the council chamber on rare occasions. It was as if Mace was looking for any reason to distrust them. Any reason to even consider either to have Thianna be placed into the Service Corp, or expel her from the Order altogether. As for what he thought about her master, Tarren Khal, she almost caught the sense that Mace really wanted to send him to the Citadel Prison.

“According to Baylan Skoll, after Padawan Yoli was able to land your escape pod on Jedah. She, unfortunately did not survive the crashed impact, and you four youngling lot had to make your way to Jedah city on your own, correct?” Windu asked.

“Yes.” Thianna answered. “The emergency ping signal was too damaged, but Tutso was able to indicate that Jedah City was still close to walk. So, we all decided to hike to the city instead, and make contact to the Temple from there for help. It was then that I realized that I still had my kyber crystal, but it broke in two and Lyn lend me a belt pouch to carry them with.” The young dark-blonde hair girl explained.

“The hike from your crashed pod, to the city was still a long journey. Almost two days.” Master Oppo Rancisis pointed out.

“We were able to preserve what emergency food, and water we had. But found water along the way.” Thianna assured the elderly serpent Master.

“Yet, somehow trouble was still able to find you.” Master Ki-Adi-Mundi stated.

Thianna doesn’t say anything, but Anna knows what the Cerean Master meant. Four years earlier, when Master Kit Fisto found Thianna on Naboo, Lady Reesa, the Head Caretaker of the Orphanage where the girl stayed for the previous four years of her life. She was arrested after she was caught, and sentenced for her role of selling children as slaves. But somehow four years later, that woman not only escaped prison, but she was continuing her business of selling orphaned children for Slave Trade. Except that time, she wasn’t running an orphanage anymore, but an underground auction.

What also happened during that whole adventure, Thianna found her familiar through the force, Nyla. But most of all, she also crossed paths with the Jedi Sentinel that had took her under his wing, and became her mentor up until his death at the end of the war.

At that time, Tarren Khal was on another assignment that led him to the traveling auction ring on Jedah, and how he, and the youngling girl met. With the aid of both Thianna, Nyla the Falcon, and the other younglings. Not only they were able to stop Reesa, as well as arrest her. He was able to locate the second group, and sent out a transmission back to the Jedi Temple to send another transport to pick them up. He stayed with them until it came, but also aided Thianna about building her lightsaber. She explained that she followed Huyang’s instructions, she had all the required parts, even doing her best to trust in the force about the design. But no matter how hard she was doing it, the crystal just wouldn’t fit into the chamber, or make it compatible with the energy core. Thianna also added that the crystal broke in two pieces when they crashed, and she was afraid that she would fail this task and not become a Jedi.

Nyla gave Thianna comfort, but Tarren gave her something more helpful. Motivation, and understanding through a new point of view. The Jedi Sentinel also provided the young girl with the all parts that he himself had collected over the years, as well as a bit of a fact about Kyber Crystals. Is that they are living beings with life flowing through the force. With life, there is nowhere to go but forward, moving comes growth, and with growth comes change. He explained to Thianna that though the stone is now in two, they can still act as one, even when they are now parted. He said, think of them as a bird’s wings. In order for the bird to fly, soar, and glide through the skies, they need both wings to work together in unison.

Through Master Khal’s aide, insight to his guidance, and using the parts he provided. Thianna was able to construct not just one, but two lightsabers and combine them into a staff. Everyone, all the other younglings, and including Professor Huyang were all excited, and impressed with Thianna’s achievement. Both with the construction of her lightsabers, but also finding Nyla as her force familiar.

Upon their return to the Jedi Temple on Coruscant, the younglings were greeted by members of the high council and told them everything that happened. Thianna even showed them her lightsabers, as well as Nyla. Though they were impressed, it was not without concern which was what had led to this meeting.

“A youngling such as yourself, with the challenges you of your previous studies of your class lessons. One, as young as you constructing not one lightsaber, but two at the same time is something that hasn’t been seen for almost a hundred years. Especially when they are combined into an instrument meant for combat, when us as Jedi are meant to be keepers of the peace.” Master Windu explains.

“And then, there is your Familiar.” Says Master Mundi. “When it comes to certain bonds made through the force. A bird such as a falcon aren’t known to be tamed and domesticated completely. Often, they have been known to lash out and can become unpredictable over time. Especially, for a predatory bird such as the O’ta Falcon as such.”

“There is one last matter that must addressed.” Master Rancisis says.

“Yes, Master?” Thianna asks.

“It appears, that there are a couple of Jedi who wish to take you on as their apprentice.” Master Windu says with a hint of disbelief in his voice.

To Thianna, it was a shocking surprise.

“Though it is not uncommon for most Knights, as well as Masters would often choose their Padawan’s as young as you. Most often wait when Initiates are near, or at the age of thirteen when they have taken their Initial Trials. In this case, you Youngling, have caught a couple Jedi Knights attention with your potential.” Windu concluded with a hint of slight intrigue in his voice.

That brought small smile of comfort to Thianna’s expression. Anna remembers how excited she was. Especially before she left for that training mission, she had a hard time keeping up in her classes, or be around the same level as high as rest of her group were. She was practically considered the weakest student of the whole class, and likely wasn’t as connected to the force as she was when she first came to the Temple. It was a complete surprise for Thianna to have been chosen to go on the expedition, and expected to find her lightsaber crystal the first time around at the age of eight years old.

“However, due to your recent events on Jedah, as well as the skill you demonstrated of your lightsaber construction, and the bond of your familiar. No Jedi has been decided to be your Master, nor are we all in agreement of considering of allowing you to move to the next phase of your training.” Master Mundi bluntly stated.

That struck Thianna with worry, while Anna stands firm as her dream of memory continues. It was clear that Ki-Adi-Mundi was one of the council members that wasn’t in favor of Thianna moving forward in her training. Same can be said about Windu, especially for one of the Jedi that requested to be Thianna’s master.

When Thianna was starting to feel down, Master Yaddle, a little female green being like Yoda took her turn to speak.

“Though there is both great potentials, as well as some concern in regards of how to proceed with your training. Thus, determining your path as a Jedi, a solution has been decided to help resolve all matters. A test through the force.” Master Yaddle explains.

In the same instant, Anna found herself in one of the Temples training rooms that is facing out to Galactic City of Coruscant. She, and her younger self, Thianna, are standing in the middle of the circular marble floor in presence of the Council. The young girl is also surrounded by eight identical wooden chests, and Anna knew what this meant.

“Your test, this is.” Says Master Yoda. “Determine your path, it will.”

“Each wooden chests, holds one item. Each holds a single purpose when chosen, and you can only choose one.” Says Master Rancisis. “Two of the chests, holds something from the two Jedi who have chosen you to be their apprentice. Should you pick one of the two, then that Jedi has our approval to train you. However, one chest holds an item of the Youngling Initiates. Should you choose that chest, then you will continue training as a Youngling until you are ready to part take in the Initiate Trials at the age of thirteen.”

It took Thianna a moment, then she asks about the other wooded chests.

“What about the other five?” The Thianna asks. “What’s inside the other chests?” The young girl asks curiously.

 “Four of the chests holds an item from each of the Jedi Service Corps.” Master Adi Gallia says. “The Agricultural Corps, the Educational Corps, the Exploration Corps, and the Medical Corps. Should you choose one of the four chests of the Service Corps, you may still have a purpose to serve within the Order, as well as service to the galaxy. However, it will also mean that your initiate training will end as of today, and you will not become a Padawan Apprentice.” The female Tholothian Master explained.

Seven of the wooden chests were said to hold one item, one item from each known faction and person of the Jedi Order. However, with seven being told what they may hold inside, only one was left unsaid.

“For the final chest, it holds nothing.” Said Mace Windu.

“Nothing?” Thianna asks confused. “As in, it is empty?”

“Yes.” Windu stated simply. “Should you choose the empty chest. Then, it is sign from the force, that your Jedi path will come to an end. You will surrender your lightsabers over to the council. You will be asked to leave the temple, and be escorted to the gate by the temple guards, and you will shall choose a new path for yourself. Whatever may the force has planned for you next.” The Master of the Order explained.

Anna can see the worried expression on her younger self’s face. Thianna does her best to hide her fear, but it was clearly obvious to everyone in the room. Basically, Thianna can only choose one of the eight wooden chests, and the one she chooses will decide what happens from thereafter. The girl will either continue training as a youngling until she is thirteen, or takes her initiate trials. Be placed within one of the Jedi Service Corp branches, which a term used for washouts should Padawan’s fail their knighthood trials, or initiates fail to have a Knight or Master as their teacher. If Thianna chooses one of the two chests from each of the two Jedi, then she be an Apprentice to one of them, and begin her training as a Jedi Padawan. However, if the girl chooses the empty, then that would be the end of her life as a Jedi before she has the chance to really explore it.

Anna remembers how she felt much pressure growing inside, and can tell that it is clearly in her younger self’s eyes. Though the young Thianna did her best to remain calm and composed on the outside, on the inside, the girl was scared out of her wits.

Large metallic shades are lowered, soon darkening the room. At the same time, dozens of candles are lit giving a warm glow to the space.

Soon enough, the most council exit the room, leaving Thianna standing alone in the center with the eight wooden chests laid around her.

“Leave you, we will.” Says Yoda, staying a little longer as the rest council leaves. “Meditate your choice, only one, you can make. Show us when your choice has been made. Trust in yourself, you can. Trust in the force, you must. May the force be with you.”

Thianna does not say anything in reply. The young girl just simply nods to the Grand Master, just when the double doors close shut. Anna caught a glimpse of Yoda giving a short smile just when the doors closed. However, he wasn’t smiling to Thianna, but shifts his eyes directly to her Anna instead, as if he actually saw her.

“Master Yoda?!” Anna questioned, reaching and calling out to the little green Grand Master. But he did not answer back before the doors shut completely.

Now, it is just Anna, and young Thianna alone in the room together. Except Thianna doesn’t know that her older self is right there standing next to her, and Anna doesn’t make her aware. Only that it is just her alone in the room, and no one else. Anna makes no attempt to be noticed by the young girl. No action, no sound, the young girl doesn’t even hear the footsteps Anna makes when she is currently less than a foot away. Both to the facts that this only a dream, and this event has already come to past, and there was no changing it.

Anna can clearly see the frightened expression on Thianna’s face. The young girl fidgets with her fingers, looking at one wooden chest, then shifting her sight to another. She can hear the girl breathing heavily, and no doubt her heart beat is beating fast. Because it is what she remembers what it felt like when she herself had to face this test. Though her chances of getting placed with the wrong Jedi, placed in the service corps, or having to continue training as a Youngling was an eight to one chance. There was also the one chance that Thianna could be expelled, all because she could make the wrong choice of which chest to choose from.

Both girls look at each wooden chest. They all look the same, with no distinguishes saying which is holding which item. Thianna wasn’t even told of what items to look for to know which Jedi would be her Master.

“Trust in the force.” A voice says in a whisper.

Both Thianna and Anna look around, but there is no one around. But Anna knew exactly who it was. She then looks down to the young girl, and then crouches down to one knew to the girls height.

“I know you’re afraid,” Anna says softly to the young Thianna, knowing she couldn’t hear her. “I know that you did not ask for any of this to happen. I know that you are asking yourself, ‘Why didn’t I just ask to continue as a Youngling like everyone else? Why didn’t I just leave Nyla back on Jedah? What is it about me that would want two Jedi to go through this length, just so that one can have me as their student? Am I even meant to be a Jedi at all?” Anna asks the girl, but the girl does not reply. “I wish I could tell you the right answer. I wish I could point out the right chest. I even wish I could tell you what will happen afterword, and help you some way to be prepared on what is to come for you.” Anna continues speaking, her voice breaks. “But all I can say, is trust the force.”

As Anna stands back up, Thianna takes in a deep breath through her nose then exhales from her mouth. The young girl gets down and sits on her knees, places her legs and closes her eyes. Thianna takes Master Yoda’s advice; she meditates in the center circle surround by the wooden chests.

The candles then disappear, as well as the marble floor. Only Thianna, Anna, and the eight wooden chests remain and can be seen. Soon, glowing aura like colors radiate from each of the chests, each giving a different color. All except one, that wasn’t giving any color. Thianna then realizes that that chest is the empty one that’ll expel her, it soon disappears from view.

Soon enough, four of the seven remaining chests also disappeared, but reveal what is inside them based by their aura’s. One is a trowel, a little hand shovel, a gardening tool surrounded by earth like color tones of mostly Green some Brown, and Orange. That meant the Agricultural Corps.

One was revealed to be an ancient text book, surrounded with colors of Red, Orange, and Blue. Indicating that was for the Educational Corps.

The next chest had a round disc like object, with a spinning arrow in the muddle. A compass, surrounded by Orange, Purple, and Yellow. That meant the Exploration Corps.

The fifth chest showed a Stethoscope, a instrument used by medical doctors use to listen for heartbeats. The auras surrounding it are of Red, Green, and Blue. The Stethoscope is meant for the Medical Corps.

Now, only three wooden chests remain to be seen, and all giving off different auras. Two are on opposite sides of the young girl, one on her left, one on her right, while the third is behind her.

The chest on Thianna’s right, gives off an aura of mostly pure white, but with multiple colors of pastels. She can even hear sounds. The chest soon disappears, and the item is revealed to be a simple white flower. That is the item for the Younglings.

The chest on the left, gives off a different sort of aura, something very different. When the chest itself disappears, there is more than one single item, but a pair of leather wrist cuffs. Though they are small enough to fit a child, they appeared be heavy with three additional straps and buckles on their top parts. For the aura, they were giving off colors of Blue, Red, and sort of a dark Gray, almost seemingly black.

Just when Thianna started to feel fear of the wrist cuffs, A brighter light was shining from behind her. Anna looks over to the chest, and sees that it to is giving of an aura of mostly a White, but others as well. Not of pastels like the flower for the Younglings, but somewhat bolder. There are hints of Orange, Blue, Purple, even Red. But the others that stood out like the White, were Green, and Yellow.

Anna couldn’t tell because the aura lights were so bright, but she knew. In that instant, all the items were wooden chests reappeared, as did the marble floor, and the dozens lit candles returned with their warm glow. Thianna then opened her eye, stood up from her meditation position, and walks over to the wooden chest that was behind her. When the young girl stands before the chests, there was a second of hesitation when pauses her hand from opening the chest. But Anna stands by, and she watches as Thianna inhales and exhales a breath of air, places both her hands on both sides of the chest and lift open the lid and open the chest.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

The Jedi Council stands by, still waiting for the young Thianna Or’Tiega, with Master Yoda waiting right up front with Anna on his left side. Master Mace Windu stand with the Grand Master on his right side, and both unaware that Anna is there with them.

“I sense hesitation from girl.” Says Windu. “Great difficulties lay ahead for her should she make a decision.”

“Patience.” Says Yoda. “A path laid by the force, the choice the youngling will make. Right or Wrong, determined by others it cannot.” The small green elder Jedi explains in riddles. “However, great challenges await her, I see.”

Anna remembers all the lessons Master Yoda taught her, and her group of Younglings before she went on the Expedition to Illum. He even told her that even a small bird can her way through and out of an icy cave, without ever knowing the way. That reminded Anna in her current situation with the droids, and her choice to find out Aelita Adell’s message to Tarren. She doesn’t know what exactly what she’s doing, or what she’ll find along the way. But, it’s far too late, she can’t turn back now. She has to fly forward no matter the hardships that are waiting.

Just then, the doors to the training room swoosh open and young Thianna walks out towards the Grand Master, and Master of the Order.

“A decision made, have you?” Asked Master Yoda.

“Yes, Master Yoda.” Thianna says simply and calmly.

Both Windu, and Yoda still sense uncertainty. However, the girl had indeed made her choice, though not one Mace approves but hold back his objection. Instead, he kneels down on one knee to the girl’s eye level.

“Please, show us, young one.” Master Windu asks politely.

Lifting up her right hand, Thianna shows both Masters the little white feather. And they knew, right then and there what it meant. The young girl, Thianna Or’Tiega, had chosen the Jedi who will be her Master. In that same moment, the sound of bird making a kik-kik-kik sound, along with the quickening flaps of wings. Thianna turns her head toward where the sounds were coming from, and sees that it is the O’ta Falcon, her familiar, Nyla. The bird flew right towards young girl, and Thianna holds out her forearm for her Familiar to land on, but thankfully is covered by the long sleeves of her light gray tunics so Nyla’s talons won’t pierce her skin. At least not by much. Though Nyla is still a young Falcon, she is however a Fledgling that is starting to learn how to fly, she is growing sharp talons, as well as molting her maturing-colored feathers of Grayish Silver, and Dark Green. Parts of her head, her back, and the top part of her wings, and little spots here and there in the wings under half, as well as her chest and belly area. So, like Thianna, Nyla still needs guidance herself, and needs to be taught certain skills as well to help her survive and thrive.

Thianna holds up her arm to lift Nyla up a little higher to Thianna’s eye level, and the shows affection towards the girl rubbing her head up to the girl’s check, and makes a sort of purring, chirping sound. At the same time, Anna sees a figure, wearing a somewhat worn looking dark brown hood cloak is walking towards Thianna, and the council members. A hood that though covered the mans face, it does not lay upon his head completely like most, due to his horn-like Montral’s being more angular. With, or without the hood, no matter how poorly it covered the face. The rest of his attire is pairs of dark boots, and tan trousers. Two layers of tunics of light, and dark shades. A black obi, and a black belt tied and strapped around his waist. The sight of Tarren Khal at this moment is something she will never forget.

Kneeling down on one knee, the male lavender Togruta Jedi, with the pair front white and bluish gray Lekku’s hanging from both sides of his head over his chest area. However, unlike most Togruta, Tarren Khal has two additional Lekku’s that grew out from behind his head, and have grown down to his lower back. Tarren then flips over his hood, showing his early middle-age of forty-two purple face of white markings resembling to lightning bolts, and arrowheads. Markings almost similar to man-made tribal marking called tattoos, with the patterns being of somewhat bold, and continuous lines. With his birth markings, the three scratched like, slanted scars across his face were almost unnoticed. Tarren’s three face scars almost resembled that of Anna’s own single face scar. But the young girl that stands before the fierce looking Jedi, and wasn’t the slightest bit nervous, not even from the first time she met him back on Jedah. Especially with his headdress of a rather large darkened tooth, tied with thick strands of thread and leather, to a crown like band made out of leather with intricate designs. The headband fits around his face just right, while the pointed tip of the tooth points up as it is set in the middle of his horn like montrals.

When the Togruta Jedi eyes met the young girl’s, he gives her a small, but soft, gentle smile to her.

“It appears that you, as well as the force have chosen me to your Master, rather than me choosing you to be my Pupal.” Tarren said warmly. “Still, young one, you do still have a choice to make. You can still choose to continue your lessons as a Youngling, until you are of age, and I can take you on when you are ready.”

Thianna was about to speak, ask a question in subtle protest. However, Tarren holds up one index finger to pause her before she could make a sound.

“However, should you choose now to begin your training as my Padawan. I will tell you now, that your time as a Youngling Initiate has come to an end. From here on out, you will be treated at an age that is older than you are now. You will be trained as a Sentinel Jedi, which means you will not be staying within the walls of the Jedi Temple, but out there in the vast galaxy. A galaxy filled with dangers that will do you great harm, things that will tempt you to stray away from your path, and people that will either use you, and even do whatever they can to kill you. They won’t care that you are young, it will not change from how they act about you.” Tarren explains in a low blunt tone.

“But do know this, young one.” He continues to speak, but in a somewhat lighter tone in his voice. “As your master, I will be responsible for you. I will teach you all that I know of how to navigate the galaxy, know the difference between friends, from those who are not. Teach you all aspects of the force, as well as other skills that can be just as helpful to you. When the time does come when you are ready, and you are no longer in need of my teaching and guidance. All I can do, is hope that I have done the best that I could to teach you everything I know, and you use that to help others, as well as yourself in your journey ahead.”

Anna can clearly see the displeasure in Master Windu’s expression. What the Jedi Sentinal’s teach isn’t like what most do based on traditions, such as learning and working directly with everyday citizens, rather than be confined within the Jedi Temple. Amongst other things, there were members of the High Jedi Council that did not trust the Sentinal’s, and why not one was ever offered a seat with them.

Still, despite his obvious disapproval of this moment. It was not Mace’s, nor anyone of the council’s place to say or object Thiana’s choice here. So, he holds his tongue, and stays silent.

“So, Youngling,” Says Tarren soft, bringing Anna’s attention back to the matter at hand. “are you committed to your choice?” He asks as he hold out his hand.

Thianna takes a moment to consider to what Tarren was telling the young girl, listen to what he was saying, and to not make the decision lightly. Once the choice was made, there really was no going back. Nyla, the O’ta falcon then climbs up Thianna’s arm up to her shoulder. The girl then gently lifts her right hand, and places it into Tarren Khal’s open hand. In that instant, the two then grip each other’s hands. Showing that Thianna Or’Tiega, is choosing to be Tarren Khal’s Jedi Sentinel Padawan.

“From this moment forward, Little Bird.” Tarren says warmly. “I will teach you all that I know in the ways of the force as one of the Sentinels. Until the time comes for you to leave my nest, and are ready to soar through the stars on your own.” Master Khal vows to Thianna.

At an instant, Anna watches as everything from that moment past by her. Young Thianna, and Master Khal leaving the Jedi Temple for Shili on a T-6 1974, her with a Padawan braid, and the feather hanging on the end. Them meditating, practicing lightsaber forms, hand to hand combat, as well as droid smithing. Roaming forests, patrolling cities, observing ally ways, and bar parlors. Traveling in starships, flying starfighters, facing monstrous creatures, fighting dangerous bounty hunters, and facing lethal crime lords. Discovering old relics, and forgotten temples. Watching a celestial phenomenon unfold on Aldhani, a pod of Purgil regaining energy from gas, and watch them jump into hyperspace. Escorting Yoda to Kimino, seeing the clone army, meeting Clone Force 99 for the first time, training them, fighting droids alongside them. Including other clones, such as Captain Howzer, Fireball, Nemec, and Blade.

Then comes the nightmare.

“Execute, Order 66.” Palpatine commanded Captain Howzer.

Soon everything, everything was flashing all at once into darkness, and burning away into by fire. Clone Troopers firing their blasters, shooting for both Thianna and Tarren as they do their best to block the bolts with their sabers. Her fighting Blade hand to hand, resulting her gaining the upper hand, but receiving a mark as the price. Nyla, flying away into the night sky to escape the chaos, leaving Thianna, Master Tarren Khal behind before disappearing behind plumes of smoke.

The last thing Anna sees are lights of neon in a darken area, with people passing by shouting and laughing. All behind what seemed to be bars, bars of a cage. Then, what looks like a brawl breaks loose, Anna is then suddenly pushed by one of the people in the brawl. Nocked down to the ground, but the cage is broken open, and is flying free over crowds of people before a shining bright light blinds her. In that one instant, Anna hears one last sound, a familiar shrill call before everything fades into white.

“Nyla?” Anna questioned.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Anna tosses and turns a couple of times, before her eyes finally pop open.

“Nyla!” Anna calls out, instantly sitting upright. Breathing heavily, sweat slakes down from her brow, continuing from her face, and down her neck.

After taking a moment of taking some deep breaths, Anna calm herself, and realizes she is in her room on the Kazellis. She wipes away the sweat, and takes another breath and releases it as acceptance.

As Anna swings her legs over the edge of the bed, she looks down to the floor. Then, her attention then shifts back over to her closet. She sits there for a few moments, just staring at the closed door of the closet. Before long, Anna stands up and walks over to the closet and opens the door.

Anna picks through her backpack, pulls out a wrapped piece of cloth, then goes back to sit on her bed. She stares down at the wrapped cloth in her palm for a few moments, until she finally unwraps the object within. A single tooth of an Akul-Shark, wrapped with single dark brown leather neck cord. Akul Sharks, native sea predators that swim the oceans of the Togruta home world of Shili. The Home world of Anna’s master, and one of the customs that is tradition to the Togruta people. Both Tarren, as well as Master Shaak-Ti, and the former Padawan learner Ahsoka Tano were all Togruta, and each had their own headdress that were made from teeth. However, for Anna back when she was Thianna, she only wore a single tooth around her neck given the fact she is human with a head full of hair, and the tooth could not be glued to her head like the natives.

To the Togruta’s, when it comes to that tradition, it served as a trophy for status and skill when an adolescent succeeded a solo hunt as their ‘Rite of Passage’. Even her master, Tarren Khal wore the same the same creatures’ tooth upon his head diadem, though his was a little larger than hers. Thianna wasn’t required to part take in such a rite, how she obtained such the tooth and allowed to keep it, served more than a show status of her skills against such a predator like the Akul- Shark at the age of thirteen. However, under the circumstances of how she came to possession, it was a special exception that was made that gained Thianna more than what other expected of her.

From that day, through the course of eleven years up until the end of the war. Thianna wore the Akul-Shark tooth around her neck, to show others that she was more than what she seemed, and that she should not be under estimated.

After Order 66 was carried out, and the Clone War was finally over. Thianna had to undergo much change, more than just cutting her hair short, or dying it to a different color. More than changing her name, and endure the pain of her face scar healing, and having to adjust with living with an unnatural inflicted mark as part of her new appearance. She had to ensure that Thianna Or’Tiega not only had to stay dead, she had to discard, and burry any and all traces of her. Leaving only Anna Tython to live on in her stead, as a scarred victim, who survived the brutalities of a senseless and meaningless war. A war where many lives were taken, needlessly killed. All to spread darkness, discord, and mistrust, for a man of an ancient evil had gained, and spread his power and influence, with the illusion of peace, democracy, and unity across the galaxy.

Though she struggled, Anna just couldn’t bring herself to throw, or sell away the tooth neck choker. She then decided to pack it away, and to never look, or think about it again. As it served as another reminder of all she lost, along with her face scar.

“You saw something in me the day we met, Tarren.” Anna whispers to herself. “You saw something the Jedi Council over looked, or something that they didn’t like. I walked with you through the shadows when I only saw glimpses, saw unspeakable things before when I wasn’t sure what I saw, and learned skills that would’ve either strengthened or broke me. Even though there were times you seemed to question yourself, and had doubts about me, you never lost hope or faith in me. So, I stayed. I never left, I didn’t quit, and because you pushed and guided me. I was able to endure much before the war, and so much more during the war. But now, even after the war is over. I don’t know how I’m supposed to be, who or what exactly I’ll have to face, or who I might become through all of this.” Anna voice breaks, clutching the shark tooth in her hand palm.

Anna gets up from the bed, and walks over to the privy sink to look at herself in the mirror. Seeing not only her reflection, but also her eyes and remembers a lesson she learned when Tarren first brought her to Shili.

“As a Jedi Sentinel Shadow, I have seen much of the galaxy, and not everything is what it seems. Not all is beautiful under the light, and much still hides in the shrouds of shadow. Even when it is brought to light, it still leaves behind an ugly mark.” Master Khal’s voice echo’s through her memory. “You yourself will also face such things in life, Thianna. That, I have no doubt. Maybe even perhaps, you will bear your own mark someday, though I hope that you don’t. At least not like I have to, Padawan.”

“But, Master.” Thianna began to ask. “If you don’t like your scars, can’t you just go to medical facility, and have them removed? Or, at least make them less noticeable?”

“It’s not about me liking my scars, or making them go unnoticed. Also, it is not just the physical mark that I am referring to, Little Bird.” Tarren corrects his young apprentice. “What I mean, is by how other will view you. But most important, by how you will view yourself. Physical marks just show some history about you, but they do not define who you are. How you are defined, is by what you choose to go by, or how you act to others. The one person who needs to know who you are, and who you choose to be, is just you.”

Just then, three nocks come nocking at Anna’s door, breaking her train of thought.

Quickly, she sets the choker necklace on the sink and walks over to her door. Pressing the button on the panel, the door slides open and Anna is greeted by Guav.

“Hey Guav,” Anna greets. “what’s up?”

Guav croaks, asking Anna if she’s okay. Saying that he thought he heard her yelling, or calling out for someone.

“Just. . .” Anna paused, struggling a little before answering. “I just dreamt about some old friends. That’s all.” Anna does her best to assure Guav as she wipes her eyes. Seemingly appearing to wipe away the last of sleepiness. But really, wiping away the little tears of comfort before Guav noticed.

Guav was about ask another question, but Anna decides to cut him off before the green and yellow frogman could make a sound.

“Was there something you needed to tell me?” Anna asks casually.

Then it came to him, and Guav got right to it. He croaks, saying that they are approaching Station ORS – 134 very soon, and he’ll be dropping the ship out of hyperspace. Sky said that if you were awake, or still sleeping. Then he would need either Anna, or Guav in the cockpit as copilot.

“Well, I’m awake now.” Anna points out. “I’m on my way.” She says as she walks over to the closet to get her duster coat. “But, lets show Sky your stuff on your flying skills.” Anna says looking back to her friend, giving a soft crooked smile

Guav then shows a big grin on his face, he croaks and squeals all at once. He then asks if she’s okay with him joining as a copilot.

“Well, how are you expected to become a pilot, if you don’t start learning how to fly anything bigger than a speeder?”

Guav croaks nervously, saying that the Kazellis is much bigger than his land speeder. Given his history, he doesn’t want damage their new ship.

“Start with small steps.” Anna advises.

After a minute of thinking, Guav agrees and heads over to the cockpit. Anna gives a small crooked smile again before Guav turns to walk away. As she slips on her brown leather duster coat, she stops and turns back to the sink. Her sight sets on the Akul-Shark Tooth choker.

Anna debated with herself, and finally decides to do something with the choker she hasn’t done since Order 66. She walks over to the sink, and ties the choker around her neck as she looks at herself in the mirror.

Touching the tooth with her index and middle finger, Anna remembers Tarren’s words, about marks left behind.

“There is more to me than just my scar, more than the force within me, Master.” Anna whispers to herself with her eyes closed. “I just need to learn for myself what kind of mark I bear, and what I leave for others to see.” Anna declares as she leaves her room to join up with Guav and Sky in the cockpit.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Station ORS - 134, Mid Rim, Q-15. 18BBY

There is much hustle, and bustle throughout 134. Both outside of the Station, with large transports, and personal vessels going in and out of docking ports, or flying about the area. On the inside, there is more hustle and bustle. Crowds walking about the active interior, as well as going in and out the many units throughout the station. Some are machine shops, some are food vendors, some are even bars and parlors partying, cheering for sporting events playing on the holoscreens, or the dancing singing entertainers. Inside one parlor, the entertainment of a Yellow skinned color female Twi’leck dances, and sings a popular number that that the crowd cheers and dances to.

However, one individual does not partake in any of the entertainment, but instead sits alone at the bar sipping a glass of Spacha brew. A lone Tagruta male, with skin color of reddish orange, and a white face marks that cover the areas of his eyes, leaving single vertical slash looking marks of his reddish orange skin just above where one’s eyebrows would be. The white patch marks almost resemble patches of fur, due to how the edges are spread like animal hair mane tips just barely reaching the line of his face, and the base of his Montral’s and Lekku’s meet, as well as leaving space at his nose, and the corners of his lips. The stripes are of white, and grayish-dark blue. His three head tails grow long enough, with the two reaching down pass over his chest, and the third behind his head grows down to the middle of his back.

His clothes are of dark green cargo pants, black boots, a white sleeveless shirt. On his wrists, a pair of black leather wrist bands clipped on. With a shirt without sleeves, he shows his arms covered with black tattoos that reach from his elbows, all the way up to his shoulders. Designs of patterns and streaks, while at the same time show images of different animals. On his left, an image of a fierce animal, with a pair of long teeth, and a head filled with long wild hair. On his right, has a sort of triangular winged creature, with a single skinny tail at its end.

The Togruta man sits alone, paying no mind to the activities happening throughout the parlor. Not to the cheering whistles for the singing lady Twi’leck. Not to the commotions of other people playing games, or watching whatever sports are showing on the holonet. However, a pair of individuals, a male Rodian and a Gotal notice the Togruta sitting alone, as well as recognize his face markings, as well as tattoos. In that instant, they exactly who he was, and went to go meet him. The Rodian sits on one side, and Gotal sits on the other.

“Hey,” Says the Gotal as a greeting. “my friend and I know who you are.”

“Yes,” The Rodian agrees. “you’re whom the people call ‘The Manta Lion’, right?”

The Togruta does not answer, nor even glances to the two, but just sips his brew.

“Yeah, I’m sure this is the guy.” The Rodian said determined.

“Yeah, well. We were at the ‘Pit’ last night, and I have to say. I have never seen anybody fight the way you do, like mixing two elements to work as one, as well as creatures.” The Gotal says as a compliment.

“Yes, that was the most entertaining show I have ever seen.” The Rodian agreed.

Still, the Togruta man does not say a word.

“Huh.” The Rodian breathed. “Not much of a talker, are you?” He questioned.

“That’s okay, cause this shouldn’t take long.” Says the Gotal. “You see, as amazed we were to watch that spectacle. We made a sort made this bet, that you would lose.” He says as he chuckled. “According to some of the stories we’ve heard about you. There are times that there are fights that don’t exactly end well in your favor. And, well. You pretty much proved us wrong last night. But, that doesn’t exactly fix our situation. ‘Financially’, if you can see where we’re going here. Five – hundred credits to my friend, and I. Right here, right now, and we’ll leave you to your drinking. Whatta ya say?” The Gotal man offers trying to be smooth.

Still, the Togruta says nothing. Instead, he lightly bangs the bar with his left fist, and raises his right hand to signal the Aqualish bar tender. Reaching inside pocket, the Togruta man pulls out at least thirty credits and pays the tender.

“Have a good night, Brom.” Says the Togruta, as he grabs his black jacket and slips it on over his arms.

“You to, Xane.” The Aqualish says delighted as his regular costumer leaves his bar. “As for you two, walk away while you still can.” Brom says as a warning.

“Maybe we should.” Say the Rodian to his friend. “We both saw how that guy fought last night. Let’s just go.” He urged his friend.

But the Gotal wasn’t having it. Instead, he storms off, following Xane to the entrance door.

“Hey!” The Gotal yells aloud. “Did you not hear me?! You owe us money!”

“You made a bet, and you lost.” Xane points out aloud. “So, I fail to see how your bad luck is my problem.” He says sarcastic, not looking at the Gotal man.

“That fight was fluke!” The Gotal yells as continues shoving through crowds of people. “You owe us a thousand credits! Now, pay up!” He continues yelling as he grabs and pulls his back head tail.

With that, Xane reaches behind himself and grabs the Gotals arm painfully. That cause him to let go of Xane’s head tail, as well as giving Xane the chance to maneuver himself to get behind the Gotal man and kick him out through the entrance/exit door. The Gotal goes flying through the doors, only to crash into a large stack of crates, with cages of animals. The impact causes one of the cages to fall over onto the ground, breaking open the gate and letting a bird loose to fly away.

As the Gotal was getting back on his feet, shaking off his dizziness from his vision. When Xane comes out through the door of the bar, the Gotal sees him and charges at the Togruta with his horns forward out. This time, Xane does not prepare to fight back, but just simply steps to the side getting clear of the Gotal. Instead of his horns hitting Xane, the Gotal crashes into his Rodian partner, and into another customer of the bar. Both are then thrown out of the bar by one of the bouncers of the bar, and crash into a line of trashcans. Xane lets out a huff of breath. Putting both hands into the pockets of his jacket, and walks away from the scene.

“Next time you two idiots lose a bet, don’t take it out on the one you betted against!” Xane says aloud to the pair as he walks away.

After a long while of walking, Xane finally reaches a quieter area of the lower level of 134. The apartment complex where he lives, but he wasn’t alone. He was being followed, by a cloaked figure wearing a hood over his head. Judging by the faint reflection Xane sees in the window, the stranger is alone and no one else with him. He decides to continue walking instead of going inside the complex. He further from the complex down a series of alleyways, and corridors filled with people. Eventually, Xane leads the stranger to a secluded area where they are alone in the stations plumbing system. Xane gets out of sight of stranger just for a second, but enough time to hide within the pipes from above.

Soon enough, the cloaked figure comes into view for Xane from above. Just as the stranger is right under Xane, he drops from his hiding place to ambush the stranger. But instead of surprising the stranger, the stranger swiftly moves out of Xane’s drop path, spins around with an air kick to nock the Togruta man down. Xane just barely misses the strangers strike, and manages to stretch his leg out to a nearby wall to push himself away from the stranger. When he lands on his hand and feet, Xane moves quickly to face the stranger again, but the stranger had disappeared yet he can tell he is close. Xane gets into his fighting stance, preparing to fight the stranger as soon he gets him in his sight again.

“If you’re with those two guys’ from earlier, it’s not my fault that they made a bad bet.” Xane says aloud.

“Oh, I’m not.” Says a man’s voice. “If you ask me, they were asking for trouble, and you went easy on them. That’s what I call restraint. Compared to how you fought last night in ‘The Pit’, that was something else. I was very impressed.” The man complimented.

“Not exactly a way I would expect to be greeted by an admirer.” Xane says sarcastic, still in his fighting stance.

“Well, you remind me of someone else like that. She didn’t exactly move like most do. Well, most who are normal, at least.” The man says.

“How so?” Xane asks.

“Well, you know what happened to the Jedi, right?” The man asks.

“Who hasn’t?” Xane asks. “If you’re thinking if I’m one of them, you’ve got it all wrong.”

“Oh, I wasn’t thinking that at all. You have restraint, but not like a Jedi.” The man assures Xane. “But, I believe you do have skills that can be a better use than just confined in a fighting ring.”

“Oh, you think so, do you?” Xane says sounding intrigued, but still keeps to his stance.

“I do.” The says, sounding interested behind Xane.

Xane then turns around fast to strike at the cloaked man, but the man proves to be faster. He maneuvers himself to grab Xane from behind and pins him to the wall.

“Though, you could learn a few more skills. I’ll show them to you, as well a bit more. If, you just stop, and listen to my proposal.” The man offers as he holds Xane against the wall.

Xane does his best to break free from the man’s grip, but he’s too strong. After a moment of struggling, Xane finally gives in. The man senses this and releases the reddish orange Togruta man. He takes a breath as he regains himself, then turns to face the cloaked man.

“So,” Xane breaths. “what’s your proposal?” He says, sounding interested.

......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Hey guys, I know I'm very late with this chapter, and I really do apologize for the inconvenience. A lot has happened last month, with the release with "Sanctuary: The Bad Batch" Novel release, family bonding, catching the flue. But the biggest issue was writing this chapter, and the originally story I was working on just wasn't working for this part of the story, I pretty much had to start from scratch. Now please, don't take it the wrong way. I love writing this story of my Original Character, and the journey she is on. With all the work that I am putting into this story. All the details, grammar correction, and making sure nothing is being overlooked or forgotten. I hope that everyone who reads this fanfic knows how much I love, how much I am working on this story, and how much I want everyone to enjoy Anna's journey. Anyways, I hope that you liked this chapter. Be sure to leave a comment, and kudos. Thank you, and may the force be with you, always.

Chapter Text

Chapter. 9

Station ORS – 134, Eraclyon Debris Field, Mid Rim, 18BBY.

Dropping out of hyperspace, the Kazellis makes a steady approach to Station 134. The Station orbits a small Indigo Moon, with the view of the shattered remains of what use to be called Eraclyon. The system of the Eraclyon use to be member system during the old High Republic about a thousand years ago, but due the planet’s core collapse, it caused an explosion force so strong that it pushed many of neighboring planets and their moons out of their natural orbits. The Indigo Moon is what remains of one of those other moons, and Eraclyon itself is now just a debris field that most are just calling it either the ‘Eraclyon Asteroid Field’ or 'Debris Field'.

“I still cannot understand why anyone would want to set up a space station out close by to an asteroid field. It is beyond me.” Sky says out of complaint. “Alrighty then, now, sir Guav. Watch closely, and learn carefully.” The medical droid instructs Guav.

Guav stands behind Sky, watching him as he flies the Kazellis towards the station, and steers for an open available hanger bay. Guav croaks, saying there’s an open spot and points to it.

“Ah, well done, Guav.” Sky complimented. “We will dock the ship in the lower levels of the station.”

“And what are supposed to do while we’re docked here?” Kell asks annoyed.

“While Guav, and Sky will be doing some modifications to the Kazellis. You, and I are gonna look around the station for new hands for Sky.” Anna says as she assists with the stabilizers.

“Why do I have to go along with you?!” Kell asks out of complaint.

“Because, they need to focus on the ship, and they won’t be able to do that while there’s a ‘loud’ distraction looming around complaining all the time.” Anna snaps. “Plus, and as much as it is going to annoy me. Somebody has to keep watch over you, as well as will need help haggling the Hanger Manager, and sell off some of the rest of the poacher’s stuff that we still have on hand.”

“For what?” Kell questioned.

“Money for starters.” Anna pointed out. “If you’re seeing about disappearing once we get you to Takodana to meet the Pirate Queen, you’re going to need a lot of credits to not only pay for transport. But also, enough to start a new life, with a new name, at a new place in a different system. Especially with the Povanarian Pirate gang coming after you because of your debt to them. With what money that was made before we left the planet, that’s hardly enough for a fresh start.”

“Okay, you may have a point.” The Ugnaught confesses. “But what do I have to owe you?” Kell asks suspiciously.

“You’re already keeping a cut of what was sold back at Povanaria, and if you keep to your end of our arrangement by not giving us any trouble, and doing what your told while you are with us. You’re pretty much already getting a free ride.” Anna points out. “So, whatever can be sold for what money. You can keep half of it, and use that for yourself once we reach Takodana.

“Only half?” Kell questioned.

“You alone, that’ll be more than enough. Compared to me, with two droids that need repairs by a Master Splicer, and giving Guav a place to eat, sleep. No doubt we’ll be facing ‘lean’ days, weeks, or even months just keep this ship as a roof over our heads. But more to the point, you’ll be getting a much better start with some money on hand. While we will b e struggling, but at least thing will be much quieter, and you won’t have to deal with the likes of me anymore.”

“Huh,” Kell breathed, rubbing his chin with satisfaction. “you know what. You, make an excellent point, Anna.” He says with a grin. “I’m just getting off easy, and you’re just gonna have to live with the responsibilities of having a ship, and provide for small crew at your expense-“

“Unless” Anna cuts Kell off. “you keep talking like that, I know where there is a hidden airlock in this space station where no one will notice us going to. Much less know about you, how you ended up outside in the vacuum of space, nor even care.” Anna explains coldly as she turns her sight to the redheaded Ugnaught to glare at him.

One look in her crystal-clear river eyes, Kell froze all over in fear. Much more than earlier after jumping into hyperspace. Kell then shuts his mouth, not uttering a single sound, or even a whisper.

Though Anna was intending to make her statement sound good for Kell, as well as giving her word to let the Ugnaught keep a large sum of the money for himself to start a new life somewhere. She also had to remind him about being respectful, and not say anything that’ll make her reconsider her offer. Even though Anna can’t influence the force over Kell’s mind, she does not want to resort to killing him, despite his personality.

Anna then turns her attention forward towards the windshield of the Kazellis, with Sky continuing to show Guav on how to properly land the ship into the hanger bay. Guav then croaks a question to Sky, asking if they have enough space in the hanger to fit the ship inside.

“Often, a lot of hanger bays, such as your previous work site, and this one all go by standard sizing to fit around such standard size starships like the Kazellis.” Sky explains. “However, should you ever have a vessel much larger than standard, then you must be prepared to land at a hanger that is equipped with the necessities, as well as the acquired space for such a vessel.”

“How could you not know that, Frog Boy? You’ve worked at Kahtee’s hanger, didn’t you?” Kell asks annoyed.

“That airlock ‘can’ be our first stop-” Anna says rhetorically and annoyed.

“I was just asking a question as a statement, that’s all.” Kell cuts off Anna in defense.

“I know what you meant, and you should just stay quiet unless you have a ‘real’ question, or when you decide to have civil conversation that don’t sound like insults.” Anna warned Kell.

After that, Kell finally sits down over on one of the seats in the Accessway, not saying a word. Soon enough, Sky does the final sequence of the landing cycle and brings the Kazellis to a slow approach into the docking bay hanger. The landing gear was down, and within a minute the Kazellis touched ground.

“Sky, were you able to look through the ship’s schematics?” Anna asked.

“Yes, I was.” Sky confirmed.

“And were you able to locate the signature key?” Anna asks another question.

“From what I was able to decipher from the schematics, the key should be located somewhere close between the Shield Generator and the Kazellis’s engines.” The Medical droid explains as he shows the schematics of the engine to Anna on a data pad, and points to what may be the very component they are looking for. “Given to how far the object is located, and how deep it may be. Sir Guav can easily access the space through the Portside Maintenance crawlway space, and I can instruct him from here on how to proceed.”

“Okay, so, once Kell and I are done. We’ll come back and help with the rest, and be on our way to Takodana.” Anna decided.

Guav croaks, saying that that hopefully the task shouldn’t take long. Likely, at least a few hours at most. He also ask, that maybe while Anna, and Kell are out selling of the rest of the poacher’s stuff. Maybe they can also keep eyes open for droid hands for Sky, seeing as though he is capable enough with just his pincer claws. Guav says, that Sky claims that he would do better with ‘actual’ hands.

“We’ll see what we will find, Sky.” Anna assures the 2-1B droid.

“Thank you, Lady Anna.” Sky says in appreciation.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Level C-2, Market level, Station ORS - 134

Anna, and Kell take a hover cart through the interior of Station 134, after bribing the hanger bay owner, a late middle age Nikto male. It was a bit much, but not enough to make them worry. Still, they have to watch how much they spend.

Anna, and Kell leave Hanger Bay Two-Seven, and take an elevator down to the C-2 Level Market units. Pushing the hover cart filled with crates of the last belongings of the Aqualish Poacher’s, they make offers with venders, and other shop owners. What remained were mostly clothes that don’t fit anyone, and hunting traps that were both harmless and lethal.

At the same time, they also search for venders that sell droid parts, as well as search for the parlor where Tarren took Thianna once to make a withdraw from her credit card. As they wondered through the interior corridors, Kell and Anna keep their eyes open for droid hands to bring back to Sky. Thankfully, Anna finally found a pair of suitable hand for her 2-1B model medical droid. One vender had a pair of droid hands on display that resembled to the Jedi Architect/Lightsaber Designer droid, Huyang. Though, Anna couldn’t tell for sure if they were actually Huyang’s. Still, they will do Sky much better, than his pincer claws.

After purchasing the droid hands, Anna also looks around for any credit dispensary stations. Though it’s been a long while since she’s been to 134, and even when the lower levels didn’t have many dispensary stations before, there were at least two functioning stations. When Anna asked about them to a few venders, they laughed and told her that they were removed from all C Levels after the war. Few are accessible on B Levels with limited access, if they would be willing to pay the fines. While those on A Levels have unlimited access, should anyone have that kind of money on hand, as well as enough to pay higher fines, and additional taxes.

With Kell’s talent with making sales for good deals, even when prices were a little much. Still, after over an hour of walking, and selling off stuff, Kell and Anna managed sell everything and got quite a bit of credits. Eight-thousand credits, not what he had hoped for, but still, it is enough for both of them. Enough for Kell to not only pay for transport from Takodana, but to also start a new life somewhere else. For Anna, she needs to fly, and maintain the Kazellis for as long as she can. As well as provide for Guav, and Sky, and be ready to pay a Splice Master to fix Teekay - Five. They split the money down to the middle, and add it to the money they already have from the sales from Povanaria.

At least what they have made is enough, and not worth going up to the upper levels. Wherever they go next, Anna will find another place to use her card, and what money she can, if she can.

Anna pulls out her commlink, and calls Sky and Guav back at the ship.

“Guav, Sky. Do you read me?” Anna asks in her commlink.

“Yes, Lady Anna.” Sky answered.

“How is that calibration comin along?” Anna asked.

“Well,” Sky began, somewhat nervous. “There was a slight minor incident, but nothing to be alarmed.” The droid says as assurance, though unconvincing.

“How bad?” Anna asks in a somewhat demanding tone.

“There was just a minor damage with the fuel gage to the engine, but nothing that could not be repaired with Sir Guav’s skills. However, we may be looking a slight delay to our goal departure time, if you not return to the hanger.” Sky warned.

“Okay,” Anna answers. “Kell, and I will start heading back now.” She says with a crooked smile as she thinks about the droid hands she found for Sky.

“Very well, Lady Anna. We shall await your return.” Sky responds, unaware of the surprise Anna has for him.

Anna puts her commlink back into one of her belt pockets, and puts the pouch with her half of the credits into her sling backpack. Soon, Anna and Kell make their way back to the hanger bay with an empty cart, and pouches of credits.

“Not what I was hoping to make, but better than nothin. Am I right?” Kell asks amused, looking to Anna as he pushes the cart. “Especially having a nice-looking lady making desirable presentations, with just her pretty face.”

Anna does not say anything in defense, or retaliation to the Ugnaught. She just quietly walks forward with her hands in her pockets beside him, and not meet eye contact to him. Kell lets out a huff a breath.

“Hey, for once. I was actually giving you a compliment.” Kell confesses. “Most people would just let me do things on my own, and still make the sales.”

“I wonder why.” Anna says sarcastic.

“Fair enough that you say that.” Kell says in the same tone. “Though, for as long as you’ve worked for me. You never seemed all too eager to take point in how I did business, and often took little to no credit. But I guess it’s obvious why you didn’t.”

Anna didn’t reply, she wasn’t going to explain what others already knew. All Anna needed was just a job, earn money to get by, and nothing more. Not trying to upstage anyone with her work, or with how she looks. Not wanting to be noticed for anything grand.

“Can I ask you a question, Anna?” Kell asks with less annoyance.

“Depends.” Anna says, not meeting Kell’s eyes.

“I promise, it’s nothing insulting towards you or anyone of your ‘friends’. Just curious about something.” Kell quoted.

Anna let’s out a breath. “What is it?” She asks.

“Have you thought of a name for your ship yet?” The Redheaded Ugnaught asked.

“It already has a name.” Anna points out. “It’s ‘The Kazellis.’ That’s it.”

“That is the name of the model, it’s not the same thing.” Kell corrects her.

“Why does it matter what it’s called? It’s a starship.” Anna says in complaint.

“Please,” Kell scoffs. “that’s the same as clones being called just by their numbers. If, you ask me, remembering all those numbers will give anyone person a headache to tell the difference between all those soldiers who have the same face and voice.” He points out. “Plus, the name ‘Kazellis’ to me, it just doesn’t suite you.”

“It really doesn’t matter if the Model name suites me, or not. I’m not going to stress myself over something where I don’t want to be recognize with, other than a means of transport. If you think you can come up with something better-“ Anna asks sarcastic.

“If I was naming a ship, it would be my own vessel.” Kell says cutting off Anna. “You made it very clear that I have no claim to the Kazellis, so it’s all yours. Also, and just my own personal opinion, it is an ugly looking ship. So, not the ship for me, thank you.” Kell says sarcastic.

To Anna, she was somewhat relived that Kell acknowledged that the Kazellis belongs to her, and Guav. Also, she can sense no deception from the Ugnaught. Except from when he said that the Kazellis was ugly, but she keeps quiet about that remark.

“Listen,” Kell continues. “if, and, or when you do decide to give your ship a name. Make it a good name. Something that says, it’s you.”

“Hm,” Anna sighs, showing a bit of a crooked smile. “I’ll take it for consideration.”

Just when the two reached an elevator door to take them back up to Level C-1 to the hanger bays, Anna presses the button for the lift to take them up. Suddenly, before the lift reached their level, it stops between levels, and the sign above says it is out of service.

“I’ve got a bad feeling about this.” Kell mumbles.

Just then, a low but loud alarm sounds through the market level. At the same time, the crest of the Galactic Empire appears on nearby visual monitors, followed by a lady Imperial Officer.

“Attention, citizens of Station ORS – 1-3-4.” The Officer announces. “I am Captain Bragg, of the Galactic Empire. Rest assure, myself, and my troopers are here for your protection.”

“There has been suspected insurgent activity in nearby systems, and sectors. We have reasons to believe that a known criminal may be operating somewhere within this area of 1-3-4, and so we will be patrolling, as well as question all for information to find them. As well as any accomplices that this criminal has aligned himself with. Therefor, all will not be permitted to enter, not leave Station 134, and you will be confined to your current level locations until our search is completed.” Captain Bragg explains as an image of the suspected criminal is being shown beside her.

Anna recognizes him from a report she has read back during the war, Saw Gerrera. Second in command of a rebel group from Onderon, alongside his sister Steela Gerrera, who died during her last battle with Separatist droids to free her people, and home world from Separatist control.

Anna doesn’t know anything else about Saw Gerrera. But, given the kind of rap sheet he has with the Empire, it is clear to her that he obviously isn’t a supporter of theirs.

“Remember, this a precaution for all citizens protection. Well will go door to door, and question everyone for what they can provide. However, it is encouraged that those who do have any information they wish to share, they are to come forward. The Empire will greatly appreciate your service, and will gladly show our gratitude for your cooperation as we build a unified galaxy.” Bragg assures the people through her broadcast before her image fades away.

At that moment, Anna notices a couple of other elevator doors sliding open, and out come small squads of four Imperial Troopers each. All dressed in white armor, and all holding blasters in hand. A couple things Anna notices about these troopers.

Anna then grabs Kell, and immediately pulls him to run towards a nearby alleyway and hide behind a dumpster just before their elevator door opens. Then comes out another squad of four Imperial Troopers with blasters in hand, and walk in unison from the lift before splitting up.

First, that though their armor is white from what she recalled from the clones. These new designs are different from clone trooper armor, especially their helmets is the obvious indication.

Finally, when one trooper walks up a couple of citizens to ask questions. The sound of one trooper’s voice was clear indicator that the trooper isn’t a clone at all. The trooper is a woman, and clones were all male human men. Even when the second trooper asked a question, and he is male, he himself obviously wasn’t a clone either.

Anna remembers hearing rumors back on Povanaria. About the Empire in the process of phasing out clones, and recruiting conscripted soldiers from all over the galaxy as their replacements. As it turns out, those rumors are indeed true.

Anna then reaches for her commlink inside one of her belt pockets, and calls Sky back at the hanger.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Kazellis Exterior, Hanger Bay Two-Seven, Level C-1

As the 2-1B Medical Droid, Sky, prepares to fuel up the Kazellis Light Freighter. He hears his commlink beeping from the front pocket of the cross-body belt strap Anna found for him, amongst other things of the Aqualish poachers they decided to keep, including a few commlinks. He opens the pocket, and pulls out the commlink to answer.

“Lady Anna?” Sky asks.

“Sky, are you still with Guav inside the Kazellis?” Anna asks in an urgent whisper.

“Currently, no.” Sky answered. “I am just about to start the fuel pump process.”

“Do you see the Hanger Bay manager? Tell me what he’s doing right now.” Anna demanded.

Sky quickly turns around, and sees that the Nikto man is currently sleeping. Slumbering, and snoring as he is lumped in his chair while holding a large empty bottle of brew in his hand over his chest.

“He is currently sleeping. Likely out cold, due to the brew he drank.” Sky confirms.

“Listen,” Anna snaps. “run to the office right now, and lock the door of the hanger to the station this second.”

“But, Lady Anna-“ Sky tries to ask Anna why.

“Sky, just do it!” Anna snaps again in a demand tone.

Sky then drops the fuel line, and dashes over to the hanger bay office. With it being wide opened, and finding the Nikto manager slumped in chair, passed out and drunk. It was no trouble for Sky to hack the hanger bay controls, and the cameras. The droid then sees to men, dressed in strange white armor walking towards the hanger entrance door.  He then locks the door from the hanger to the station, and turning on the red indicator light to alert the two men. Sky then turns on the audio of the cameras to listen.

“Let’s try this next one.” One of the soldiers says as they come up to the door and was about knock on it.

“Don’t bother.” The second soldier says, pointing up to the red light. “The doors locked, and the red light means no one’s inside. Let’s move to the next one.”

“We were given orders to go door to door, and question everyone about Gerrera.” The first soldier says.

“We’ll come back here later, and if it’s still locked. We’ll open it, and let ourselves in to ask our questions, and search the hanger.” The second soldier says. “If anyone on this station has seen that terrorist, and if he’s here on 134, we’ll find him. Then, he’ll finally pay for all the trouble he’s been causing the Empire.” The second soldier says to his comrade as they turn to walk away.

“Sky.” Anna calls from the commlink. “Sky, do you copy? What’s going on?”

Level C-2, Market Units

Anna stands, and waits for Sky to respond back to her with Kell.

“I am here, Lady Anna.” Sky confirms as the soldiers are out of view. “There were two men, wearing strange white armor just outside the hanger door. They must be those Clone Troopers you spoke about, and the galactic Empire is here on Station 134. But do not fear, they had just left when they realized the hanger is closed, and locked up.”

“Well, they’re not Clones.” Anna confessed. “But, they are Imperial Troopers. Still, it’s a relief they didn’t break in.” Anna says, taking a breath of relief into her commlink.

“Yes.” Sky says in agreement. “I heard the troopers were ordered to question everyone in the Space Station. Apparently, they are on the search for an Insurgent, whom seems to be ‘wanted’ by the Empire.” Sky explains. “Someone whom, they were told that he may have been spotted somewhere at a nearby sector, and believe that he may be likely somewhere here on Station 134-” The medical droid adds.

“Someone from Onderon, but that isn’t important at this time right now.” Anna says abruptly. “So, please Sky, give us good news.” She pleads.

“My lady, I am afraid that we are now on a crucial time crunch.” Sky says with the tone of concern.

“How so?” Anna asks with a hint of concern in her voice.

“The troopers said, that they will return later, though they were not specific on when. But if the hanger bay is still closed, and locked by the time they come back. They will force to door open themselves, search the hanger bay, and ask questions. Even though we do not know about this Insurgent they are looking for, let alone even harbor such a man. I am suspecting they would demand answers one way or another, and won’t accept anything less.” Sky points out. “Also, there is still the repairs to the Kazellis. Sir Guav, and I did manage to make the needed adjustments. Though, putting the engine back together to be functional to fly again will still take much time, unless you, and Mr. Kell hurry yourselves to get back here to help before the soldiers return in force.”

“Yeah. . . We’re gonna be a while Doc.” Kell says.

“What do you mean?” Sky asks.

“The elevators are all locked down, and closed up.” Anna says. “The Empire is doing what they can keep everybody on this station, by not letting anyone travel. Nor is anyone permitted to enter, or leave without going through them first.” She explains.

“Well, that does complicate things.” Sky says blunt.

“Sky,” Anna says firmly into her commlink. “you just keep watch for troopers, or anyone wanting, or trying to come into the hanger. Guav, will continue working to putting the engine back together until it is functional again, and ready to fly out of here.”

“But my lady, the Imperials, and the lockdown?” Sky asks out of concern.

“I remember some maintenance areas, and parts of the ventilation system we can sneak through unnoticed.” Anna explains. “Kell, and I will go through them, and rendezvous back to the hanger.”

“But, what about the Empire, and the troopers?” Sky questioned in worry.

“One issue at a time, Sky. Over, and out.” Anna says just before turning off her commlink, and putting it back into her belt pocket.

“Do you have a plan to get through this lock down?” Kell asks.

“As soon as I come up with something, I’ll let you know. Now let’s go.” Anna says as a command.

Anna takes the lead; she peeks out of the alley to see if any Troopers are nearby. Pulling back into the shadow, gently pushing Kell with her. She keeps one hand one Kell’s shoulder as to protect him, as well as to not do anything before her. She holds her Westar - 34 blaster, still in its holster with her dominant hand, to be ready to pull out and use it when she has to be. As two troopers walk by, they did not see, or even glance in their direction. Peeking out of the alley again, the two troopers keep walking until they are far enough away. Anna looks around both sides, then waves to Kell to come to her indicating that it is safe.

The two leave the alley, and Anna then spots a ground sewer tunnel entrance. Crouching down to press the buttons to open the tunnel, the doors swish open.

“You’re not seriously-“ Kell says, about to complain.

“We are gonna have to go down through the sewer, in order to climb up to the next levels.” She says, cutting off the Ugnaught.

“Do you even know the way?” Kell asks in a sarcastic rhetorical tone.

“I’ve been through them before, and the last time took me to the higher up levels. So, we will have go down, make our way up in order to go down again to get back to the hanger.” Anna explains.

Just when Kell was about to ask another question, Anna again cuts him off before he can make a sound.

“Just get down in there, and I will explain it all in detail. Now, get moving.” Anna orders, pointing down into the sewer.

Kell grunts, wanting to protest Anna’s action. But then he goes down into the sewer first, and Anna follows soon after when she catches glimpses of two troopers coming. Quickly, Anna climbs down into the sewer, and closes the hatch door just in time before they notice.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Kazellis Interior, Engine Room, Hanger Bay Two – Seven

After Sky passed word over to Guav, about the Empire locking down all elevator lifts throughout the space station, that also leaves both Anna, and Kell stuck down at the Market Level units. Guav begins to worry about Anna. Since she is a Jedi, and Imperial Troopers are now patrolling the station. Even though he knows Anna is capable of taking care of herself, and the Imperial Captain assured the station that they are only looking for an Insurgent, or anyone who might have information about his whereabouts. Guav can’t help but worry that they might catch on to her, and might even set a target on Anna instead. With all the Jedi supposed to be dead, there’s no telling what the Empire will be capable of should they find out about Anna.

When Guav spoke to Sky about his concerns, the medical droid just told the frogman to not let anxieties steer him away from his tasks. They needed to stay on top of things on their parts, while Anna and Kell find a way to get passed the lockdown, and make their way back to the hanger.

With Sky taking on the task to keep watch on the security monitors inside the hanger office, while also keeping close watch on the Nikto manager as he is still passed out drunk. Guav was given the task to put the Kazellis’s engine’s back to functioning order, something he has done before many times at his last job. Despite the small incident from earlier, Guav is determined to do his part without anymore problems that’ll cause delays.

While reattaching the fuel gage, Guav somehow looses grip of his spanner tool and it falls out of his hand. He croaks to curse at himself, asking if it is too much to ask to not let himself be a cluts when their very lives are on the line.

Fortunately, the tool didn’t fall too far away. The part of the Kazellis’s engine where he, and Sky found the signature key is close to the machine shop. Guav makes it through the overhead crawlspace, and crawls over to the shop part and lifts opens a ceiling panel. From there, Guav climbs down and finds his tool next to the Astromech, TK-5-C-25. Sky moved Teekay here from the Medical Bay while he was working to get the room online when they were in Hyperspace, and Anna was sleeping.

After picking up his tool, Guav checks it for any dents or bents. Thankfully, it seems still be intact and he can get back to work. He then turns to the powerless Astromech, still strapped down to the hover cart so she won’t go off rolling all over the place, and risk getting damaged anymore than she already is.

Guav croaks, saying to Teekay is the reason they are all on this journey with Anna. Whatever message she has that was meant for Anna’s master, it sure has to be something important enough to finish what he couldn’t. Guav also adds that Teekay is in more than capable hands to help figure this mystery out, and hopefully find someone who can fix both her, and Sky up as good as new. He gently pats Teekay’s head, then suddenly powers on. Lights start flashing, her arms pop out of her cone dome head and wave out of control, C-Unit sounds erupt aloud and its head starts spinning. Guav falls backwards on his backside out of fright, dropping his tool again.

The mechs binary language is indescribable, Guav can’t understand what Teekay is saying, or know if she’s actually making any sense at all. He then croaks out loud, calling for Sky, saying that Teekay is acting up. Just then, her head stop spinning, and shows a holo image of a human woman.

“P-p-p-p-p-Please, help her, Tarren Khal.” The woman pleaded. “You a-a-a-a-a-are her only hope.”

Guav thinks for a second, and figures it has to be Aelita Adelle. The woman Anna spoke about, as well as the previous owner of Teekay – Five, and Sky. From what Sky told both Anna, and Guav back on Povanaria is that Anna ‘s Jedi Master, Tarren Khal, was someone Aelita trusted.

“Please, help her, Tarren Khal. You are her only hope.” The holo message repeated. “Y-y-y-y-y-You are the only friend, and Jedi I can trust t-t-t-t-t-to that can help my child.” Aelita’s recording added. “M-m-m-m-my-my-my-my child.” She repeated before the droid powers down again, Aelita’s recording with it.

Guav squeals in shock, and croaks to himself in whisper. Her child?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Hey guys. I know that this chapter is much shorter than what I’ve done in the past, my head was in a haze this past month for a couple of reasons.

One being the most common was writer’s block. When I have an idea for a chapter, I normally write in my note books before I start typing on my computer. But when something on paper doesn’t sound right, or makes any sense, I mark that out and start over. Such a thing has been happening a lot, that I never finish writing in my notebook, and just get down to typing the story the best I can before the deadline. I was hoping to post by the first of this month, but my mind had been fogged for a while that I was stressed. Of course, that is typical in this sort of thing with any writers. But it also brings me to my second reason.

This past month, I was contacted by two fan artistes who wanted to commission projects for me based on my OC story. I saw their works Instagram, and portfolios online, and I was impressed with both their styles, as well as admire their eagerness to want to do projects to give my Character, and her story into visual. However, as much as I would love to see my story to get a graphic design, and give hungry artists something a chance to let others see value in their work. I am however, not in the right financial position to request such projects and have them done at such times, especially on a regular basis.

Aside from writing, and posting a new chapter once a month. I only have one part-time job outside of this, and my work has been cutting back hours to only when I have just enough to help out my family, as well as pay regular monthly expenses. Also, I just gave a rather large loan to my best friend of 20+ years, and it is going to take months for her to pay me back in full.

I have made my reasons clear to both fans of my fan fiction. And though I got the feeling that one was a bit disappointed, she understood my reasons why I had to turn her down. I thought I did the same for the other. However, when this fan told me that they had made a sketch, after I explicably told her about my finances, she did so anyways, and still wanted to be paid for it. Against my better judgment, I paid this fan for the sketch, and told her to not do this sort of thing again to me, or any other. Even when the sketch was finished and she sent it to me, she even asked for a tip for the work. Work that I said that I did not have money for, and said why I had to turn her down as well before that person did what they did. Still, I paid the tip just to show some appreciation, as well as good faith to know that it wasn’t a waste.

Whether it is a simple sketch, or a full-blown art project. I need all who read my OC story to know, as well as understand something. Whatever art you do, whether it is graphic designs, literature, or anything. If you want to draw, paint, or sculp a character for someone, but they say no, or anything that indicates that answer and give you a reason why. I ask that you respect that person’s answer, and not do what this one fan artist did with me.

I do understand that the fan had good intentions, and wanted show off their skills. I also understand that with such talent, it does take time, care, as well as effort to make sure it is up to a client’s satisfaction. With such talent, it should be paid, as well as rewarded for the work they put into. Though I do like what this fan had done, and I am impressed with their style. However, I will not ignore that my reasons for the rejection were dismissed, and I felt highjacked for something I had to say no to, and I was caught up into paying for it anyways, as well as throw a tip in there.

I will not say who this fan is, because I do not want them being harassed, or bullied for this incident from anyone. I have told this person how I felt about this experience, and told them to not ever pull this act again. Not just on me, but for anyone whom they would want to do a project for in the future. I even warned this person, that if they do so again, I will not only not pay them for the commission, but also report and block them.

For any fan artists out there, I can’t draw, or paint, or create the way you do. Though, I can only imagine that finding anyone as a client for art commission isn’t easy. However, I encourage you to keep pursuing your passion, and not let anything hold you back. But, I do ask that you take whatever rejections you get with dignity for yourself, and not do what this person has done to me. When someone says no, or that they are not interested, or can’t afford to, it doesn’t mean yes, it is a definite no.