Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

As soon as Master Jaro Tapal learned he was summoned to Soris for an important meeting, all he could do was wonder what was so important that he had to leave his duties almost immediately. The Jedi Council had dispatched him to this extremely barren planet days ago, and by the look of it, the chance of finding his target was relatively small. Three days have passed since he was stationed here, and for once, Jaro felt like he was beginning to lose his patience.

His prayers to the Force were finally answered, as an older woman could be seen approaching from the west on foot. She was not alone, as a child was holding her hand, both their faces sullen. As soon as they got near him, he stepped forward with haste.

"Are you the one who contacted the Republic about an urgent matter?" Jaro declares in a calm voice.

"Yes, I'm the one," the woman replies with a shaky voice, and she stops for a second, her eyes darting left and right.

"What happened?"

"The raiders... they killed everyone..." her voice resounds into the empty valley with a shiver, barely containing her emotions.

"Calm down," the tall Jedi Master replies with a more gentle voice. "Please have a seat. The young one too. Tell me everything," he invites her to take place near his campfire.

The woman agrees reluctantly, while the small child remains silent, never leaving her side. Jaro casts a worried glance at him as the woman begins to recall the tragic events. A band of raiders had stolen all their hard-earned goods and burned their village to the ground. The only ones who survived stood in front of him right now, scared and alone.

"What about the boy's parents? Did they survive? Are you his mother?"

"No. I'm just a neighbor. I pulled him from under the rubble and ran as fast as I could. Nobody else survived."

"I'm so sorry to hear that. I apologize for my delayed arrival. Had I known the situation was so dire, I would have arrived sooner with reinforcements," Jaro admits in a remorseful voice.

The woman simply shakes her head as a sudden outburst of cries fills the valley. She lowers her head while she weeps silently. Jaro leans closer to inspect the sole survivors in front of him. The woman continues to sob silently while the boy is almost too quiet. He stares into the fire with empty eyes, and Jaro grows closer to inspect him.

A skinny boy, not older than eight, stands in front of him. He has short, bright red hair and a plethora of freckles all across his face. One the right side of his face, a thin blaster burn travels all the way to his neck while another smaller scar resides on the bridge if his nose. He continues to stare deeply into the fire with pale green eyes, and Jaro dares to wave a steady hand in front of him. When he fails to respond or gesture anything, he tries again with no result.

"How long has the boy been like this?" Jaro asks while he remains by his side.

"The fire took his eyes away. He's completely blind," the woman replies with a tearful voice.

"What is your name, young one?" Jaro grows closer to the boy and reaches for his right hand. Shaky fingers greet him as the boy seems to finally acknowledge his presence.

"Cal Kestis..." he rasps in a weak voice, his lips returning into a deep frown as soon as he closes his mouth.

Jaro's face contorts into a sorrowful stare, his eyes fixed on the young boy in front of him. A youngling whose entire family was slaughtered was sitting in front of him all alone.

"Will you take the boy and raise him as your own?" he asks the woman, who suddenly raises her head from her palms and stares at him with an almost unreadable expression on her face. Her entire mood shifts, and she quickly glances at the boy before she begins to speak.

"I...can't. My sister lives on the other side of this region, and I've already made contact with her husband to come pick me up. She's pregnant with her fourth child, and... as selfish as it sounds, I can't bring her another mouth to feed."

Jaro contemplates her words for a moment as a feeling of relief washes over him. He had considered the possibility of adopting the child the moment he saw him, yet he feared the woman might oppose. Her answer feels like prayers to Jaro's ears as he stands up quietly and places a firm hand on her shoulder.

"Then it is settled. I will take the child back to Coruscant and decide his fate with the rest of the Jedi Council. He will have a roof over his head, and he will be raised among our kind."

"Will he be a Jedi?"

"I do not know. Some younglings take time until the Force speaks to them, but he will be tested. If he passes the test, then yes, he will become a Jedi."

"And if he fails?" the woman casts a worrisome glance at the silent boy, who is alone by the fire, completely lost in thought.

Jaro simply smiles at her. It was never a question of whether the boy was Force-sensitive or not, though he already knew the answer to that. He felt it as soon as the boy reached out, desperate to be heard. Still, a faint voice at the back of his head kept persisting, alerting him that there was more to him than meets the eye.

The trip back to Coruscant was made in complete silence, with the occasional background noise keeping Jaro from falling asleep. Cal was sitting quietly next to him, his hands gently caressing the control panel in front of him. Jaro reaches out and guides one of Cal's hands to a small round button, the gesture making him flinch suddenly.

"It's okay. Feel this?" he reaches out again, this time with a more gentle touch.

"Yeah, it's a button."

"We'll soon reach Coruscant and the Jedi Temple. That button brings us out of hyperspace. Wanna try it?"

The boy's face lights up for a second, and a sincere smile flashes on Jaro's lips. Making Cal feel more comfortable around him was now his number one mission, along with gaining his full trust. He had contacted the Jedi Council hours ago, telling them he had found an orphan youngling, but he kept most of the details to himself. Until he is one hundred percent sure that Cal is Force-sensitive, he will keep a watchful eye on the boy.

"We're almost there. Ready?"

"Yeah, I'm ready," Cal replies with a faint smile, and Jaro wonders if the boy truly knows all the details about what happened to his entire family. The fire had burned everything to the ground, and he was incredibly lucky to have escaped with his life.

He presses the button, and the ship emerges from hyperspace instantly, revealing Coruscant in all its glory. The Jedi Temple stands right ahead as the ship descends into the atmosphere, the ecumenopolis so big and bright that it makes Jaro marvel every time he sees it.

The spaceport is filled with citizens as Jaro makes his way with Cal towards the transport shuttle. So many people stare at him, but his eyes remain fixed on the young boy who is presently sitting next to him. He can spot Cal tilting his head to the side as he stares ahead, and Jaro understands exactly where Cal's mind is. The sound of the shuttle is faint but steady, the vibrations in the air allowing him to feel the journey.

"Cal, have you heard about the Jedi Knights?"

The sentence makes Cal shift his head as he nods quickly, his right ear now listening intently to his words.

"What about the Force? Do you understand how it works?"

"Not really," Cal replies in a disappointed voice, his fingers now gently fidgeting with the bottom of his shirt.

"The Force resides in all living things. Everything that surrounds us is connected to it through balance and harmony. When I rescued you the other day, I felt a strong connection to the Force inside you. Have you ever felt it?"

"I...don't know..." Cal begins to speak and stops as if he is thinking about something.

"Speak your mind. No one will judge you."

"Sometimes when I was outside, playing in the sun or running through the forest, I could feel the grass under my feet...alive. I could hear the Kimmi's singing from the other side of the village, and one time I even made my dad's shoes move a little."

"Interesting. What else?"

"I once touched my mom's old jewelry box, and I saw my Nana. She looked very young."

"Was your Nana still alive before the raiders showed up?"

"No. She's been gone for many years."

Jaro brings his hand under his chin and contemplates Cal's words in complete silence. The Force was definitely strong within him, and he considered the possibility of Cal possessing rare Jedi abilities. A trip to the Jedi Council will have to be scheduled immediately if Cal is to begin his journey as a Padawan, and Jaro feels it's only fitting for him to be the person to train him as a way to atone for not being able to save his family in time.

The Jedi Temple stands tall behind them as both Jaro Tapal and Cal Kestis emerge from behind the main entrance and walk down the long stairs. A flash of disappointment and sadness flashes briefly on Jaro's face. The Jedi Council had unanimously denied his request to take Cal as his Padawan and train him as a Jedi.

His age was the deciding factor, with Cal being far older than the rest of the Padawans inside the temple, and Jaro scoffs lightly as he remembers that the rules had been broken before for other, more important students. Cal had passed the test, yet for some reason, the council members refused to allow him into the Jedi Order.

"What a tremendous waste of time," Jaro sighs while he holds Cal's hand and guides him towards a small bench. The boy remains quiet, his expression incredibly serious.

"Maybe I'm just not meant to be a Jedi."

"No, it's not that, Cal. I had many Padawans in training, and if one thing's for sure, you were definitely a strong choice for a Jedi Knight."

"Those people seem to think otherwise..." Cal stops and squeezes Jaro's hand tight as a small tear traces down his cheek.

"Hey, it's okay," Jaro kneels down and wipes the tear gently with his thumb. "We'll figure something out, I promise. I won't give up on you, Cal. You have my word."

Cal simply nods as Jaro holds him in a tight hug. The boy cries silently in his arms while he ponders what to do next. Cal's potential is unlimited when it comes to using the Force, and there's only one place that has everything Cal needs to grow as a Force user, despite his rejection. So Jaro thinks about his decision until it becomes final. He will take Cal to a monastery on Jedha personally while instructing the monks there to raise him as their own and to teach him their ways.

"I know the perfect place for you."

Chapter Text

Cal enjoys sunrises the most, despite not being able to actually see them. The warmth on his face every time the sun appears can only be rivaled by Kynchi's cooking, but even that pales in comparison to the shivers he gets whenever he feels it. The morning air is so clean and fresh that it enters his nostrils without warning, and he places himself in the exact same spot above the monastery he has had for the last ten years.

Some of the monks always berate him for climbing the top of the building by himself, while others constantly voice their worried remarks. Cal knows his strengths and his weaknesses, and he considers he can handle himself pretty well around these parts. He has memorized every footstep inside the monastery, with even some of the outer places becoming more familiar with each day.

He braces himself for the sunrise, almost a bit too excited while he can hear small chatter under his feet. The monks are already looking for him, and he wonders how long it will take for them to find him this time.

Last time, they searched for hours until they found him on top of the mountain. All he wanted was to feel the sandy ground under his feet, curious if it was different from the one outside the monastery. His suspicion was confirmed as the sand was indeed far smoother than the one below, yet his joy was short-lived as the monks arrived shortly after and scolded him beyond belief.

A sly grin tugs at Cal’s lips now as he remembers he's hiding a small scroll under his robes. He stole it from one of the elders days ago, curious about the echo imprinted on it.

Soon after Master Tapal brought him all those years ago to Jedha, he discovered he had a unique ability that allowed him to see into the past. Cal thought he was dreaming when he first experienced it, his emotions overflowing with happiness at the return of his sight. He was immediately brought back to reality when his vision disappeared again, replacing the clear images and vivid colors with complete blankness.

The monks call it psychometry—one's ability to feel an echo in the Force and visualize it's past—and he felt it was only logical for him to train this ability to its full potential. So every time he has a chance to find a rare object and dive into its history, he takes it.

Cal wraps his fingers gently around the scroll and begins to concentrate. The sun begins to cast its warm rays on his face, and he takes a deep breath as the loud sounds around him begin to simmer down. He can feel the echo strong, right in his grasp, and he grabs it, the emptiness around him filling with familiar sights.

This memory is new, yet he can see all the monks gathered around the archives as usual. A comfortable silence fills the room as the old man begins to record his daily rituals, and Cal just stares. He has every face and robe memorized inside his head before the image begins to fade. These are his close friends, the people who raised him and offered him kindness, so he wants to remember them exactly as they are.

"Cal!" a blurred voice nags him at the back of his head, and he tries to ignore it, but the more he concentrates, the louder it gets until it surrounds him completely and the echo fades altogether.

"Yes, Volis, I'm here. You found me," Cal replies with a sigh as he stands and turns around to face him.

"Do you actually enjoy making me worried?" Volis replies with a hint of concern cleverly hidden under his scold.

"Why would you be worried? I'm here, I'm okay."

"Must you do this every single morning? Surely you can find more grounded activities to start your morning."

"I like the sun. It's not my fault you built these monasteries so high in the sky," Cal quips with a cheeky grin, the declaration making Volis sigh heavily and shake his head in disapproval.

"These holy places have been here for centuries, built by our ancestors to help connect us even better to all the living things that surround us, but...wait—why am I wasting time explaining this? You already know this!"

"I do," Cal's face sports a mischievous grin as he steps closer.

"One day you will have to outgrow this rebellious teenager phase you seem so adamant to keep. You are eighteen years old, Cal, and you must take your responsibilities inside this monastery far more seriously. I say this as a close friend. You have no idea how important you are to all of us."

Cal's expression shifts to a more serious one as he begins to follow Volis, contemplating his words. It's true that in all these years since he was brought here, his gift has been incredibly helpful in restoring the planet's lost history.

The Jedi had been grateful enough to allow Master Tapal to visit him from time to time, with some of the Council members even regretting their decision to deny him the right to become a Jedi Knight. Of course, nothing can be done about that now, and yet Cal still sometimes wonders what his life could have been like had he been accepted by them that day.

None of that matters now, Cal ponders as he is led inside the archives. Another scroll was found inside one of their dig sites hours ago, with this one causing a bit of a stir throughout the whole monastery. The monks' concerned whispers can be heard as he reaches for the scroll, his fingers hesitating to touch the object for a second.

"Maybe you should take some time with this one. I hear it was quite difficult to retrieve, and I fear what you might see."

"It definitely feels stranger than the rest," Cal replies, still hesitant to touch the object. "Where did you say you found it?"

"It was found buried inside a small temple not far from the desert ridge. The place was teeming with Sutabans, but we managed to take it before they attacked."

"Did this temple have strange writing on its walls?" Cal asks.

"I...don't remember. I'm really sorry," the monk who found it simply shakes his head and shrugs, unsure of himself.

"Perhaps you should skip this one," another monk speaks in a worried tone.

"No. I can handle it," Cal answers in a more determined tone. His fingers reach further until he can feel the faint echo on his fingertips.

"Cal-"

"I can do this," he interrupts Volis and reaches out until the scroll is now in his hand. He lowers himself to the ground and closes his eyes as a feeling of dread suddenly overcomes him. Whether it's from the scroll or something else, Cal ignores it as he concentrates and fully allows himself to delve into the memory.

It does not take long until he is fully into it, the images fascinating him like never before. This particular scroll was indeed old, with the planet distinctly different from other echoes. He can see himself as a tall, cloaked figure roaming the cold sands of Jedha.

It feels like an eternity passes, with the unknown man walking so long that it gives Cal phantom pain inside his legs. Eventually, he reaches a small temple and begins to look around. He feels his emotions through the echo, a deeper, more sinister feeling creeping under his skin despite his calm facade. The temple is dimly lit, with only a few slivers of natural lighting highlighting the ancient stone. It's completely barren inside, and the figure stops while his fingers reach inside his bag.

Cal spots a familiar weapon on his hip, the design eerily resembling a lightsaber save for the hilt, with the shape being different, thicker, and less refined. He pulls out the scroll, his gloved fingers admiring the object with deep curiosity.

Before he can take a closer look, he feels a pair of hands shaking his body vigorously. He tries to ignore it, the monks no doubt worried about his state of mind. Cal hates to be coddled and pampered by them, even if, deep down, he understands why they do it. With his condition, it's sometimes hard, even for him, to keep track of his surroundings, but his other senses always take control, and with the help of the force, he always finds his way home.

The shaking continues aggressively, and Cal sighs. He doesn't want to let go, with the echo growing more interesting with each second. So he concentrates harder, ignoring the desperate hands trying to bring him back to reality. That's when he hears it. A shrieking sound past his ears and a loud scream, followed by another and another. So he lets go of the memory gradually as the sound around him grows increasingly louder.

Someone is carrying him in his arms and running so fast that he can feel the wind past his ears. Screaming and blaster blots can be heard from behind, and the fog around his mind begins to clear as the full reality of what is happening hits him hard.

He drops the scroll and begins to move slowly. Volis notices his awakening and places him quickly on the ground as soon as they reach a more secluded room. He takes Cal into his arms and hides him behind a wall as a patrol of Clone troopers dashes past them, their boots clattering against the stone floor, unaware of their presence.

"What's happening?" Cal's voice shakes as he tries to keep his composure.

"We're under attack! They came not long after you touched that scroll..." Volis replies while he places a hand on Cal's mouth swiftly before he has the time to respond.

Another Clone patrol runs past their hiding spot, their footsteps growing weaker while one of them can be heard speaking through the wall. Cal listens attentively, overhearing them and their orders. The men had been sent by someone to kill everyone inside the monastery. As soon as the men are gone, Volis retracts his hand and whispers in a trembling voice.

"Cal, listen to me. I need you to run and hide. I know you're very good at it, and forgive me for scolding you all those times you did so."

"Why are you telling me this? Come with me!" Cal replies in a low voice.

"No. Everyone is dead. You and I are most likely the sole survivors of this place. Those men will find us sooner or later, and I would prefer if they found me instead of you first."

"Who are they?"

"I don't know, but they look like Clone troopers. They could be pirates or raiders posing as them, but they have the Republic logo on their armor."

"We can both make it. If we run now, I'll take us to the catacombs, and we'll stay-"

"Cal, stop!"Volis cuts him off, gripping his shoulders firmly. "We both know that if they find us, we're as good as dead. I'll distract them, and you run. Hide and don't come out until you're absolutely sure it's safe. Even if it takes days!" Volis replies with a more firm voice.

Cal nods with a deep shiver inside his body while Volis pulls him closer until their foreheads touch. He can feel the trembles in the older man's body as he sighs, a sudden wave of regret invading every bone in Cal's body.

"Be safe, Cal, and survive. Whatever it takes!" the older monk lets go of him in a quick motion.

He is gone from Cal's side before he can reply and convince him to change his mind. His footsteps grow weaker with each passing second, and Cal rises to his feet instantly. His friend gave him a chance to run, to escape with his life, and he will not waste it. So he runs until his feet hurt for real this time, finally reaching the underground catacombs. The place is damp and cold, yet he feels incredibly safe here as he hides inside one of the Jedi tombs. He used to always come here when he was feeling sad or hurt, with the place filled with echoes of former Jedi Knights and their incredible adventures.

Whatever reason these Clone troopers had to massacre his friends will have to be put at the back of his mind as he struggles to remain silent, his eyes pricking with tears for his deceased friends. The sound of rapid footsteps grows closer, and he places a shaky hand on his mouth while he lays hidden inside one of the large stone tombs.

"I think we got them all," a voice murmurs nearby, too close for comfort.

"Did you check everywhere? If even one of them escapes..."

"We definitely got them all. I killed the last one myself," the voice brags again. "These monks were far easier to put down than those traitorous Jedi. No one survived."

Cal's eyes widen in surprise as he struggles to keep his composure. Volis had been his closest friend, and the possible confirmation of his death only makes his heart sting as a feeling of remorse washes over him. It seems the Jedi and everyone who follows their ways were being massacred in this very moment. Even the monks, who were as peaceful as ever, were killed for simply aiding the Jedi in their quest to keep balance and peace.

Whoever ordered the destruction of the Jedi Order must have been planning for a long time to do so, and Cal wonders who it could be. Volis and everyone else were probably dead, slain by these Clone troopers, who left as soon as the deed was done.

Fear takes over Cal's body as he lays inside the tomb, unable to move. His whole body shakes as he tries to keep still until all the murderers are gone. So he stays hidden for hours, paralyzed by fright and dread.

His body feels numb as he slowly begins to recover from the shock, and he moves his legs gradually, the blood beginning to flow back into his extremities. He raises his hands and gives the stone lid a soft push, his ears searching for any sigh of movement. As soon as the lid is raised, he stands up and listens again.

The only sound greeting him is strong silence, and he concentrates harder, still afraid to leave his safe space. When he fails to hear anything suspicious, he quietly exits the tomb and begins to walk slowly until he is at the main entrance of the catacombs.

His feet guide him slowly back to the monastery while his body still reels from shock as he listens for any sign of life. Large hallways filled with laughter and chatter were now eerily quiet, the smell of charred flesh and recent death lingering inside the whole monastery. This place was supposed to be a safe haven, a refuge for scholars and monks, yet now it holds only dead bodies and wild fire, the archives burning in the distance while Cal walks among the dead.

He can feel their lifeless bodies as he carefully steps around them, a painful sting traveling constantly inside his chest. Grief was an old friend of his, and he remembers that fateful day when he lost his entire family to raiders. It seems the universe was out to get him again, as no amount of happy memories could erase what has happened here today.

A low sob emerges from his lips, quivering gently as the tears begin to flow down his cheeks. He's not sure, but he thinks Volis might be at his feet, and he lowers himself as he searches for the old medallion he gave him months ago as a gift. When he finds it wrapped around the neck of the dead body, it feels as if his whole world is collapsing again.

Minutes turn into hours, with Cal finding it impossible to raise himself. So many thoughts and regrets swirl inside his mind, yet he reminds himself of his duty. All the monks deserve to be buried with honor, and he takes the task upon himself, starting with Volis.

One by one, he performs the necessary rituals until all his former friends are buried inside the monastery, their bodies slowly decomposing with the passing of time while their souls are now one with the force. Cal always felt like he would be the last person to do this, and he always complained about the noise, yet the silence surrounding him now was more than he could bear.

Chapter Text

Being alone in an empty monastery was not how Cal had imagined his life would be spent. Approximately eight months had passed since the brutal massacre of his people, yet for Cal, it still felt like it had been mere days. The quietness around him was deafening, and he sometimes found himself screaming just to hear something around him. The monastery lay unchanged, both a sanctuary and a tomb, and Cal felt it was time to reach further, to familiarize himself with the outer territory if he ever decided to leave for good.

When the purge happened, he’d tried contacting the other monasteries, but no one answered. Days of silence turned into weeks, and the bitter realization hit him: they were all gone. Fear kept him from calling again, worried his transmissions would give away his location. Instead, he meditated, reaching out through the Force, hoping to find someone—anyone—who had survived.

That's when he felt a darker presence, lurking on Jedha in search for survivors. So he shut himself off from the Force, afraid that this presence might come looking for him.

Eventually, the solitude became unbearable. The quiet, unchanging walls of the monastery began to feel like a prison, and Cal ventured beyond its safety. The desert stretched endlessly before him, a harsh and unforgiving place, but it was better than the suffocating stillness inside. Spending time inside, hiding from potential threats, was beginning to play tricks on his mind, and he felt it was time to clear his head.

One step at a time, he begins to listen, the sands dancing around him as the wind guides him until he is close to the edge of a cliff. One step further, and it could end in disaster, so Cal feels with his feet the hard stone edges around the cliff's end and backs away slowly.

"That was a close one," he sighs, and he lowers himself to the ground.

Reconnecting to the Force was very dangerous; he knows that, but he feels he has no other choice. Supplies are running thin with each passing day, and he has to eat something other than dried meats. He also desperately craves to drink something else other than bitter tea, with the mere memory of its terrible taste bringing a shiver down his spine.

The world around him also seems more alert and present when he connects to the Force, with his other senses dialed up to eleven every time he reaches out. So he allows himself to feel the living, breathing Force again, an almost euphoric feeling crashing down on him. Jedha feels more alive as he begins to walk with more determination, his feet guiding him towards another nearby monastery only a day's walk from here. Staying in one place was becoming too dangerous for him, as he always remembered Volis and his last words—to survive, whatever it takes.

A strange device buried in the sand catches his attention, the sharp edges digging into his foot. Cal reaches out, the device emanating a faint beep. The object continues to beep, and Cal's fingers begin to study the strange object. It appears someone lost it in this vast desert, though he wonders who the original owner might be.

Maybe one of those Clone troopers lost it, he ponders, and he drops the object quickly before he can feel an echo around it. It was one thing to hear his brothers scream as they were being massacred, but to see it? No thank you, Cal sighs as he buries the object deeper into the sand and continues his journey. Despite being a dessert, Jedha is unusually cold, and Cal begins to shiver under his robes.

"Dank farik!" he curses under his breath as a strong gust of wind almost knocks him from his feet. The monastery should be closer by now, having walked for hours. He could feel the sun's rays cool, a signal that night was settling in and that he needed to find shelter quickly.

The wild beasts roaming the desert will devour him without second thought if he somehow manages to bump into one, and he begins his search for a more secluded place. The vibrations in the sand indicate a small cave to his right, which is not very far. An adequate place to sleep and gather strength for his journey. As soon as Cal reaches the cave, he can feel the damp moisture in the air, the cold outside accentuating the coolness of the cave.

No time to complain, got a big journey ahead of me, Cal thinks as he enters the cave. The same quietness from the monastery greets him, and he wonders if he'll ever hear someone else again. Being alone on Jedha among ruins was still a better life than many had, and he stops for a moment to think about Master Tapal.

That Clone trooper mentioned the Jedi as traitors, which means most of them were already dead by now. He hopes at least some survived, with Jaro Tapal being among them, but the more he thinks about it, the less he believes it's true. Nevertheless, he needs to keep holding on to hope, even if hope seems to have abandoned him the day he was born.

"Time to go to bed," he mutters under his breath, and he reaches in his bag to pull a small blanket. The cave is cold but not unpleasant, and Cal lays to his side, his arms and legs slowly recovering from the massive strain they were put under.

It doesn't take long until he can feel the weariness inside his whole body, lulling him to sleep. He tucks his hair behind his ears to hear better in case something happens, and then goes to sleep.

A strange noise jolts him awake. It starts as a low grunting, growing louder and closer. Cal’s heart pounds as he jumps to his feet, scanning the cave. He’s disoriented, his mind still foggy from sleep. The sound turns to small chatter. He tries to run, but before he can, a large hand slams him to the ground. Pain shoots through his body as he groans, his head spinning.

"Well, well, what have we here?" a gruff voice echoes, its tone deceptively calm.

"Look at his robes. He’s gotta be one of those Jedi traitors! Lucky us!" another voice chimes in, higher-pitched and mocking.

"I’m not a Jedi!" Cal snaps, his voice steady despite the fear curling in his chest. "I’m a monk."

"What difference does it make? You all look the same to me," the first man retorts.

"Big difference, trust me," Cal ads "Look, I don't have a lightsaber on me. I'm peaceful and unarmed," he raises his hands in front of him.

He can feel their presence through the Force, with the two of them inside the cave while another one awaits outside. Bounty hunters, without a doubt, Cal reasons while he begins to devise his plan of escape. Under no circumstances can he allow himself to be captured or, worse, killed by these men. The Force is always with him, and he has faith he will escape in no time.

"Nah, you’re a liar, just like the rest of ‘em. This planet’s crawling with Jedi," the first man growls again, and by the sound of his voice, Cal recognizes that he's a Rodian.

"Yeah, we're not dumb!" the other one sounds like a human, young and inexperienced. The only problem remaining was the unknown third party outside. It could be anyone at this point, yet Cal keeps his head turned, searching again for any sign.

"The Jedi are all dead. There's nobody here left but me. I'm just a simple monk trying to live my life in peace. You won't get any credits for me."

"We'll see about that…" the Rodian points his blaster towards Cal. "Don't you dare move a muscle!"

Cal nods and waits. The Rodian doesn't move either. Instead, he throws something on the ground, the object sounding metallic. Cal furrows his eyebrows, unsure what to do next.

"Well, what are you waiting for? Put those on!"

"Put what on?" Cal asks, despite feeling the proximity of the object at his feet.

"The cuffs, you idiot! You blind or somethin'?"

"Something like that," Cal waves one of his hands in front of his eyes.

"Useless! Gotta do everything myself!" the Rodian growls in frustration and steps closer as he puts his blaster aside and bends down to reach for the pair of cuffs.

Cal lowers his arms and pushes hard with the Force, the shock wave toppling every man inside the room onto their backs while a cover of dust envelops the entire cave. He starts to run as fast as his legs can carry him after what he assumes were at least a few hours of good sleep. Using the Force in combat had never happened before, as the monks focused on teaching him only the basics—push and pull—and small fancy tricks like levitate, but he only practiced on inanimate objects, not real people.

These powers were only to be used as self-defense, and in this situation, he truly considers it self-defense as he continues to run, though where he is going, he has no idea. Behind him, angry shouts echo through the cave. "Find him now!"

Cal feels the tall sand dunes right in front of him, and he jumps behind them while lowering himself to the ground to hear better. The two men are already searching for him, with the human one cursing loudly while the Rodian keeps quiet.

Lucky for him, Jedha is a desert planet, with the wind quietly offering him cover as he begins to crawl through the sand dunes. The men are frantic, searching every crevice for him, yet Cal knows he's smarter. The desert is his home, and navigating it has never been a problem before. Sure, back then, he was not being followed by armed men who tried to capture him for their own benefit.

How strange the galaxy has become, Cal sighs as he continues to crawl silently. He's pretty sure he left them far behind, and he jumps to his feet, ready to run again as far away as he can. The monastery is in the opposite direction, but he needs to hide as quickly as possible, with the path ahead currently unsafe. Cal thinks of the day the Clone troopers massacred his friends. It happened so fast that he barely had time to react, and he scoffs lightly, finding himself once again on the run. Nowhere is safe, he thinks, his feet failing him as he trips and falls face first into the cold sand.

Did he really trip all by himself? Cal groans loudly as he raises himself on his hands and tries to stand. Something keeps him from moving his legs, and he reaches out with his hands to feel the thick rope entangling around his ankles.

Not good, he begins to panic as his fingers dig into the rope, determined to set himself free. He suddenly finds himself falling onto his back as a powerful blow knocks him, his hands now secured tightly around his body by what he can only assume is the same type of rope.

"Not so fast, Jedi! You're a slippery one, aren't you?" the Rodian is now at his side, panting hard while a strained laugh escapes from his mouth.

"Let me go!" Cal screams and tries to wiggle around, the bonds incredibly tight around his body.

"How much do you think we'll get for this one? I hear the Emperor wants them delivered to him now, not just killed on the spot," a low, harsh voice echoes around his ears as Cal finally gets to meet the third member of this bounty hunter group. A Durros, judging by the grave sound of his voice.

"What do you think he does with them?" the human says with a small laugh.

"Who cares? As long as we get paid, he can marry him for all I care!" the Rodian interjects with a snicker, prancing around Cal with almost a dance in his step.

Cal listens to their conversations carefully while they drag him from the sand and over the shoulder of the larger Durros. Whoever this Emperor was, he was clearly the one behind the Jedi massacre all those months ago. Was the Republic so defenseless that a single man could seize power and end it in such a short time?

All he can do now is wait and see where he will be taken next. Maybe he can escape again, as these three don't seem to be very smart, Cal ponders their intelligence as the sound of a large ship takes him by surprise. First raiders, now bounty hunters... it seems fate wants him dead no matter the cost. A sudden surge of determination travels down his body, unwilling to let himself be sold to this Emperor and prove fate wrong.

The ship is traveling smoothly through hyperspace, and for once again in his life, Cal feels completely lost. The sound of the engine is not as loud as he anticipated, as he could still hear the men's chatter from his cell, laughing and drinking. His head hurts from the fall, but at least he is alive and conscious, which could not be said for the other man placed in the other cell.

When life is around him, he can feel it strong and pulsing through the Force. The other cell is as cold as the Jedha sands, and he begins to mourn whoever was inside it. These men are not to be taken lightly, he realizes as a cold shiver travels down his spine, unsure what to do next.

Cal always imagined his departure from Jedha as a more lively one, not bound and dragged by bounty hunters to be sold to the Empire. A horrible discovery on his part, wondering how far this Empire stretches. Far enough to reach a peaceful planet full of Jedi allies, he mourns again.

"The Force is my ally," he begins to speak in a soft voice, careful not to disturb and draw the attention of the bounty hunters. He begins to pray, though to whom he cannot say. The Force truly was on his side, always, yet now, for some reason, it seems to falter. Maybe the long journey he had did make him far weaker than he realized.

"How long do we have? I'm starving!" the Rodian yells loudly.

"We'll stop to refuel on Laseel in a few minutes. I hear the Empire's building a massive refinery and a brand new refueling station on that wretched world. We'll get out credits from the Jedi, and then you can eat all you want!" the human remarks with a hint of impatience in his reply.

"Enough chatter, vermin! Get movin'!" the Durros yells, and Cal can hear the Rodian curse him under his breath.

A sickening feeling of dread mixed with anticipation invades Cal's entire body as the ship drops from hyperspace and travels silently toward their new destination.

Laseel. The planet sounds extremely familiar, with the name of the system on the tip of Cal's tongue. Yet again, he feels grateful to the monks for teaching him all about the galaxy, with the realization setting in as soon as he remembers the name.

The Dathomir system is as feared as it is respected among the monks and the Jedi, with the titular planet being a source for many mysteries for centuries. A few years ago, he heard news of a cruel general laying waste to the Nightsister populace, but the details were very short and conflicting. Keeping the record of history was and still is his duty, and it almost feels like a slap in the face for him to be here but unable to visit the ancient planet.

"What the kriff is that?" the human shouts, his voice tinged with panic.

"Scan the area for threats!" the Durros orders, his composure slipping.

"There it is again!" the Rodian’s panic rises as the ship lurches violently.

"Sith hells! We’re under attack!" someone screams as alarms blare and the vessel begins to shudder uncontrollably.

Cal begins to wonder if the universe genuinely hates him as a feeling of nausea invades his stomach from the sudden turns. First, his family gets wiped out by raiders. Then the people who raised him are massacred until none are left. And now, bound and ready to be delivered to the Empire, his transport ship is being attacked by unknown enemies. As if this day, this life couldn't get any worse...

An almost insane laugh erupts from his lips at the possibility of all this happening in such a short span of time. The ship is shaking so badly, sending him flying from left to right while the screams of his captors can be heard inside the cockpit. Whoever it was, they sure were not wasting any time and before he can even recover from the wild ride he took for minutes inside his cell, the ship steadies itself for good.

The sound of rapid, light footsteps can be heard approaching him, and he backs away in the corner, afraid. The unknown enemies are now getting closer, and they stop as soon as they reach his cell. A loud sound and the smell of burning metal are all he needs to know that the door is now open.

He expects to be dragged unceremoniously out the door, but to his surprise, no one manhandles him. The strangers simply stand in front of him, eerily quiet.

"We found the Jedi, sisters. We will bring him to face Mother at once," a female voice echoes inside the room, the sound almost pleasant and soothing to Cal's ears.

"I'm not a Jedi..." Cal's voice trails off, his senses dulling completely as a warm sensation wraps around him, his eyelids growing so heavy that he slumps on the ground instantly, a soft pair of hands catching him before he can hit his head on the cold, metal floor.

Chapter Text

Dathomir at sunrise is a hauntingly beautiful sight. The jagged cliffs glow crimson under the rising sun, the air heavy with the remnants of mist from the night. A young woman stands on the edge of the overlook, her long silver hair catching the faint breeze, its strands gleaming like moonlight. She wears a flowing crimson garment, the fabric rippling softly around her. Her brown eyes, fierce and unyielding, fix on the horizon as if daring the sun to match her intensity.

"Mother Merrin!" a voice calls, breaking the silence.

Another woman approaches, younger but bearing a striking resemblance. Her shorter silver hair is tucked behind her ears, and her green eyes gleam with excitement despite the strain of her hurried climb. She stops a few paces away, breathless. "We have news from our sisters! A transport ship was intercepted in the atmosphere over Laseel. They found a living, breathing Jedi!"

"How is that good news? I was under the impression all were dead..." she faces the young woman with a hint of resentment and bitterness in her voice, her eyes wide with surprise.

"Not all, it seems," the younger woman replies, her voice steadying. "This one is alive and in good health. In fact, our sisters are bringing him here as we speak. Mother, if what they say is true, he could be a fine candidate to—"

"I will hear none of this, Isea," Merrin’s voice slices through the air like a blade, her expression hardening. "You know what the Jedi have done to our kind. I will not invite this liar and murderer to live with us!"

"At least look at him before you decide to kill him," Isea pleads in a gentle voice, and Merrin's expression softens.

So many years have passed since that monster almost brought an end to her kind. It seemed true that luck was with her that day, as she managed to escape with a handful of her sisters and hide in the mountains until the purge was complete. When she retuned to her clan, she found only death and sorrow, and it was that day that she swore her vengeance upon the Jedi and their murderous kind.

When news broke a few months ago that all Jedi had been wiped out, Merrin rejoiced. She felt no empathy for the people who had done the same to her own kin. Justice always prevails, and in that moment, she felt peace, knowing her sisters could finally rest in peace. But as the days passed and the shadow of the new Galactic Empire began to grow larger, it was evident their clan needed to grow.

With only a handful of Nightsisters alive and well, it was time to repopulate and rebuild the Nightsister clan to its former glory. So they scoured the Nightbrother village in search of someone strong enough in the Force to give her a powerful heir. The Nightbrothers were arrogant and brazen, displaying their virtue to the Nightsisters with bravado, but none of them possessed what Merrin truly wanted. None of the remaining ones were Force-sensitive.

"As you wish, Isea. I will speak to this Jedi before I put him out of his misery."

"Yes! I always knew you had a kind heart," Isea strolls to her side as she grabs her arm in a gentle manner.

"Do not tell Valeria I have said so, or I will never hear the end of it," Merrin's eyebrows rise as she gives her a kind smile.

"My lips are sealed," Isea promises, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.

The remaining Nightsisters gather in the main chamber of the temple as Merrin strides past them. Only six Nightsisters form her entire council, but Merrin feels immense pride in each of them. Valeria, the second oldest Nightsister casts a confused glance her way, clearly unaware of Merrin’s plan, while Isea offers a quick, encouraging nod. Both serve as her trusted advisors, counseling her on most matters, while Lorys, Fey, and Kora stand as her loyal bodyguards.

Fey and Kora drag the Jedi into the chamber, his feet scraping against the ground, while Lorys presses the sharp tip of her spear against the back of his neck. His hands are bound in front of him, and he begins to struggle as soon as his knees hit the ground with a painful crack. The Jedi writhes in their grasp, but he is no match for the Nightsisters’ strength. Merrin’s lips curl into a faint smirk at the sight before her, and she steps closer, her shadow falling over him.

"So, this is the Jedi you found? I have to say, I am deeply unimpressed," her voice fills the silence around the main chamber while Valeria scoffs in contempt.

"Well, I hate to be a disappointment to you, witch!" the young man snaps back so quickly that Merrin raises an eyebrow in surprise.

"Are you certain he is truly a Jedi?" Merrin mocks, her tone light but laced with venom. "He does not look so frightening now that he is on his knees," she cocks her head, studying the young man at her feet.

Her sister's loud laughs fill the room while she too shares a small laugh, deeply satisfied by their capture. The less Jedi roam their land, the better, even if this one seems vastly different from the one that attacked their clan years ago. He keeps his head down, refusing to look her in the eyes while she gives him another suspicious look and extends her arm towards him.

"I suppose we shall see."

Her palm ignites with a dull green flame while she begins to chant, her gaze fixed on the unwilling man in front of her. She feels her fingers tingling while her spell dances around him, though he does not seem frightened by the sight of her magick. With a quick motion, she closes her fist, her lips now sealed into a deep frown, while her sisters wait. She gives Valeria a quick nod, the silence inside the room replaced by murmurs, all realizing his true nature.

Jedi or not, the young man’s connection to the Force is undeniable—stronger than anything Merrin has felt in years. The raw power emanating from him both captivates and frightens her. Now the only remaining issue remains his fate, and she pushes her thought aside as she steps closer, intrigued by his reserved demeanor.

The Mother tilts her head, her sharp eyes studying the kneeling man at her feet. He is indeed young and, as Isea described, strong. She allows her gaze to trail over him, from his dirtied robes to his thick, fiery red hair—a color rare even among her kind. His pale skin is scattered with freckles, giving him an oddly youthful appearance. Lowering herself slightly, she leans in to see his face. His lovely green eyes catch her off guard, peeking through the strands of unkempt hair that fall across his brow. His gaze remains fixed on the floor, distant and unfocused. Merrin extends her hand and gently presses her index finger under his chin, urging him face her.

"Look at me, Jedi," she commands. "I wish to see the face of one murderer among many. Though I hear your kind has met its well-deserved end."

Cal resists her touch as he buries his chin further into his chest, refusing to comply. The Mother simply laughs while she grabs his chin forcefully and lifts his head until he is staring right through her, his expression incredibly angry.

Shame and regret creep under her skin as she realizes what an impossible task she laid upon him. Her fingers shake as she lets go swiftly and straightens herself. She clears a dry lump in her throat, unsure if she can speak in this moment.

"I'm not a murderer," Cal says in a low voice, interrupting the silence. "I've never killed anyone in my life."

"A killer and a liar as well. Do you have any shame left?" Merrin replies as she turns her back to him, unwilling to look at him anymore.

"Why would I lie? I told you I'm not a Jedi! I'm a peaceful monk who served the Order until we were wiped out!"

"Your actions speak otherwise!" Merrin snaps, spinning back to face him, her voice trembling with anger. "Where were your ‘peaceful monks’ when a soldier wielding your weapons brought death to my people?"

"The Jedi bring peace and order to the galaxy. I heard about what happened here, and believe me, whoever did this was not a Jedi!"

"More lies! I know what I saw as I was busy crawling among the dead. Those lightsabers belong to your people, not mine! As a matter of fact, one of your own carrying two such weapons tried to seek power and knowledge right here on Dathomir not long ago."

"What?" Cal’s voice sharpens. "A Jedi was here? When?" he begins to struggle in his binds but stops immediately as he is reminded of the sharp spear pointed at the back of his neck.

"Not long after your people were slain, he tried to manipulate the Nightbrothers against us for his own selfish gain."

"Where is he now?" Cal grows restless in his spot.

"His remains are buried inside the tomb of Kujet, alongside his treasonous thoughts. I can bring you there if you wish to visit, though I do not guarantee your safe return..." all the Nightsisters begin to laugh crudely as a faint smirk appears on Merrin's lips.

"No thanks, I'm good..." Cal mutters, his voice heavy with sarcasm.

"You should be thanking Isea instead for speaking on your behalf. She was the one who suggested we should meet. I was more inclined to end your life before you set foot into my home."

"So kill me then, and end this. I don't fear death, and I'm certainly not afraid of you," Cal declares in a strong voice, the sentence making Merrin step closer.

She observes his behavior, a brave façade masking his true fear, while his body betrays him with quiet shivers traveling all over. Her smug expression fades, the smirk on her face falling as a more gentle one replaces it. She waves her hand in the air as the spear behind him is raised with a swift motion. Cal releases a short and quick sigh, his face etched with conflict as he is dragged to his feet instantly.

"This one is blind, Kora. Make sure that he is fed and bathed before you lock him in his cell. Take him to the dungeons beneath the library, and keep him there until I decide his fate."

"Yes, Mother!" she replies with confidence while Lorys and Fey drag him out of the room. Only the three of them remain, with Valeria already by Merrin's side as soon as the doors close behind the Jedi, her expression deeply unsatisfied.

"Mother Merrin, I must urge you to reconsider this hasty decision. This outsider cannot be allowed to live among us, especially not with him being a Jedi!"

"You doubt my decision?" Merrin raises an eyebrow at her in suspicion.

"No, of course not! I was merely expressing my distaste for his kind. He does not belong here, and a quick death will be far more merciful for him."

"I have yet to decide what to do with him, Valeria. There is much that we need to discuss, but we will do so later. I have other, more urgent matters to attend to."

Before Merrin can turn to leave the room, Isea's voice makes her stop, the proposition so brazen and bold that it makes her freeze on the spot.

"What if you take him as your mate, Mother? We all know how strong in the Force Jedi are, and this one does not seem so bad. Perhaps he speaks the truth, and his kind had no part in our demise."

Merrin turns swiftly, Isea's words cutting deep like a poisoned blade. She looks at her with a mix of shock and disbelief. The idea of forming an alliance with a Jedi, especially one who claims innocence in their people's downfall, is both impossible and dangerous as far as she is concerned.

"I will hear no more of this!" her voice echoes in the silent room as both the remaining Nightsisters remain quiet. The doors shut behind her as Merrin storms out of the room, leaving them behind as a tense atmosphere fills the air between them.

"This is all your fault!" Valeria points her finger at Isea with a deep frown on her face.

"Mine? I simply suggested-"

"You will not say such things anymore! I forbid you!"

"You cannot forbid me to speak my mind! Our people are scarce, and if a lone Jedi can save what little remains of our kin, then I say we take the chance," Isea grows closer to Valeria with a hopeful look in her eyes.

"The Jedi and our Nightsisters will never coexist in peace," Valeria hisses. "It is time to wake up, Isea, and realize who the real enemy is," she rolls her eyes and scoffs loudly, her disapproval apparent on her face.

"No! It is you who needs to wake up! Are you so blinded by grief that you would doom our entire clan instead of seeing it thrive? The Jedi belongs here with us, and I will convince Mother to reconsider my advice!" Isea storms out of the room.

Valeria remains alone with her thoughts, watching the younger woman disappear as she places a shaky hand on her temple and begins to sense the massive headache currently appearing inside her head.

The smell of rust and metal invades Cal's nostrils as soon as he is led into another foreign room. His feet shake, as does his entire body, while he tries to put on a brave face. The Nightsisters have been given clear instructions on what to do with him, and for once, Cal regrets his sharp hearing. A rough hand guides him from his side while another set of hands already tugs at his robes. He jumps to the side instantly, trying to shield himself, as a weak grumble can be heard from one of the Nightsisters.

"If you wish to remain dirty inside your cell, just say so," one of them declares with a light scoff. The other one simply releases a quick snort, the disapproval apparent in her voice.

"Perhaps Jedi do not bathe! This one definitely smells revolting!" she laughs.

Cal feels a rush of blood traveling quickly towards his face, his ears ringing while his hands bawl into shaky fists. Traveling alone for days had obviously been taxing on his entire body, but he never felt ashamed of his body odor until now. He lowers his head and gently sniffs his robes, a repugnant smell all but confirming he was truly in desperate need of a bath.

So he stops fighting and allows the women to remove his bindings and his robes, their hands feeling gentler to the touch as they continue to strip him until he is absolutely sure he is naked in front of them. The Nightsisters remain silent as they guide him inside a large tub, the warm water almost making him tear up from the comfort.

One of them places a soft rag into his palm while the other one dumps a bucket of water on his head without warning. Cal sinks further into the warm water as the women silently rise from his side and retreat to the corner of the room to chat among themselves. He can hear their laughter, the two of them being so comfortable with each other that it makes him feel like he's not supposed to be inside the room.

A thousand thoughts swirl inside his mind as he begins to scrub himself clean. Being taken as a prisoner by Nightsisters of all people was the last thing he could have possibly imagined this day would go, and Cal tries to clear his mind and stay alert. Their "Mother" as they called her, seemed hell-bent on keeping him here against his own will. If she hates Jedi so much, there is only one thing coming for him, and as much as Cal tries to ignore it, the thought is constant in his mind: his imminent death.

The scrubbing continues until he feels himself impossibly clean, and he clears his throat as he places the now dirty rag on the side of the tub and waits. It doesn't take long for the Nightsisters to haul him out, with a soft and big towel thrown over him to pat him dry.

Cal never liked being pampered, but feeling the gentleness of their touch screams that there's more to these women than what he witnessed moments ago. He feels like he completely lost his mind to even think about this, but for some reason, he feels almost safe here, inside this room. A clean set of robes is handed to him right after he is completely dry, the material warm and soft to the touch.

He feels the air shift to a more cold and damp one as they continue their journey towards the dungeon, and he wonders who else might reside here. He hopes at the very least not to be alone down there again, though by the complete silence that surrounds him as he walks further inside, he doubts it.

"Step inside!" one of the Nightsisters pushes him past the threshold, and he almost trips but catches himself with a painful breath near the stone wall.

"Careful, Fey! Did you not hear what Mother said?"

"Relax, Kora. He is fine, see?" Fey replies with a hint of irony in her voice.

"Know that there is a tray with food and a cup of fresh water by the door. You should eat and rest," Kora addresses him with a more gentle voice.

"It's not like I have anything better to do," Cal speaks in a bitter voice and shrugs lightly.

"Precisely," the Nightsister replies with a more detached voice.

An uncomfortable silence rises inside the dungeon as the Nightsister locks the cell door and leaves with her friend. Cal's shoulders slump suddenly, and he lowers himself to the ground with a deep sigh. The tremble inside his body refuses to leave, no matter how many times he tells himself to calm down. He brings his knees to his chest and places his head steadily on them while his hands hug his legs tightly. Maybe if he makes himself small enough, he will disappear, and this nightmare will finally end.

A sweet smell makes his stomach rumble, and he raises his head, remembering the food waiting for him at the door. With shaky steps, he gets up and reaches for the tray, almost too hungry to ever realize he was already done after the second bite. The cold water feels refreshing down his throat as he drinks it fast and discards the cup back on the tray.

So much for savoring his meal, Cal scolds himself as he lowers himself on the ground again, a thick blanket digging into his sides. He wraps the warm material around him and lays quietly on the ground, unable to sleep. Many scenarios cross his mind, and he even considers appealing to the Mother's better nature. Her voice seemed harsh and authoritative, but the longer she continued to speak, the less he feared her.

Chapter Text

Stress and sleep rarely make a good pair. Merrin sits on the edge of her bed, her weary eyes heavy with exhaustion. Her head throbs, a painful reminder of the sleepless night she spent tossing and turning, unable to close her eyes for more than fleeting moments. The memory of the monster decimating her sisters haunts her, vivid and relentless, and she exhales deeply at the thought of it.

Today was the day—the day she must decide the Jedi's fate once and for all. A flicker of curiosity stirs in her as she recalls his words from yesterday. His adamant denial of the Jedi's sins nearly swayed her judgment then and there. Yet, she knows she must remain clear-headed, free from the clouds of vengeance or, worse, fear. Her sisters need her now more than ever, and a quick laugh escapes her lips as she recalls Isea's wild proposition.

To take a Jedi as her significant other, one she will most likely spend her entire life next to, was as outlandish as it was cruel. Isea has gone mad, Merrin thinks as she begins to dress and prepare for the day ahead. But as her gaze catches her reflection in an old, tarnished mirror, she hesitates. Isea’s words echo in her mind, faint yet persistent. The Jedi were indeed strong warriors, blessed with Force-sensitivity. With her magick and his use of the Force, their offspring will surely be even stronger and pass the tradition along until her clan is fully restored.

"Wishful thinking, Merrin," she mutters under her breath as she puts on a brave face and exits her chambers.

As she rounds the corner, Valeria is already at her side, a smug smile stretched across her lips. She strides silently beside Merrin, the unspoken tension between them simmering. The Mother gives her a thoughtful look, raising her eyebrows as she stops and addresses her.

"You seem to be in a good mood today. Did Lorys visit your chambers late at night again?"

"I am simply expressing my joy. Today is the day we will rid the galaxy of another monster, as I am sure your judgment will be swift and decisive."

Merrin's mouth sets into a fine line, and she gives Valeria a false smile as she turns and resumes her journey in complete silence. Truth be told, she has no idea what to do with the damned Jedi, or monk, as he corrected her many times yesterday. Was the universe challenging her authority and her morals by sending one of her sworn enemies in front of her, only to find him completely different from what she expected?

With Malicos, the choice was simple. His corruption was clear as day, his heart long swallowed by darkness before he even set foot on Dathomir. His remains served as a warning to others who might dare to follow his path. But this Jedi? He is far younger, less inclined to violence, his voice and demeanor calm rather than combative.

His wit and sharp tongue also make her wonder what else he might have to say when he feels safer speaking more. As much as she tries to deny it, Merrin craves interaction, and with only the six of them around for so long, it was past time for a change. The Nightbrothers also fear her or only want to sleep with her, and she laments their closed minds. At least this Jedi dared to stand almost fearless in the face of death, as she denied it.

"Has our prisoner behaved himself through the night?" Merrin asks as she strides into the main chamber. Her eyes fix on the holomap displayed at the center of the large table, its projection detailing the nearby region in sharp, glowing relief.

"Yes. He allowed us to bathe him, and he even took the food we gave him shortly after. I found the tray empty this morning inside his cell," Kora remarks.

"You should have brought him here to face his judgment, not let him lounge about like a lazy Nydak!" Valeria's words feel venomous, her tone incredibly disgusted.

"Let him rest for now," Merrin interjects, silencing her with a raised finger. Her attention shifts back to the holomap, where a faint signal flickers in a lower quadrant. The disturbance suggests unwelcome visitors have just landed on Dathomir. "We have more pressing matters to attend to."

"Who are they?" Isea asks, stepping closer to the map, her expression tight with concern.

"It could be pirates like last time," Kora replies with half a smirk. Merrin simply dismisses her sentence as the map grows larger, revealing a bigger shuttle descending into the atmosphere.

"I do not think so. Look, it seems our unwelcome guests have brought reinforcements. Let us see what these strangers want, and help them to depart Dathomir as soon as possible."

The area outside the temple is safer than the untamed wilds beyond, but it is no place for complacency. Merrin ventures out to confront whoever dares interrupt their council at such a crucial time. The entire clan gathers with her, the Nightbrothers armed and alert as they form a defensive line before the temple.

A black, cloaked figure can be seen approaching from the east, along with a few soldiers wearing similar black armor. They carry weapons in their hands, and Merrin steps in front of everyone as she snaps her fingers suddenly. A fine green line grows in front of her feet, stretching until it surrounds the whole temple. A protection spell to ward off any harm that might come from these strangers, who dare to approach seemingly without fear.

"You shall go no further than that!" Merrin extends her right hand in front of her, eyeing the masked figure with deep resentment. "You trespass on our sacred lands."

"But they’re not truly your lands, are they?" the figure counters, her voice carrying a sinister resonance. A short, mocking laugh escapes her lips, adding a chilling undertone.

"Dathomir is forbidden to outsiders. Leave now, and we might spare your lives," Merrin demands again as she steps closer without fear.

"A hypocrite through, and thorugh... oh my," the stranger tilt her head and continues to mock as she begins to pace left and right.

Merrin’s eyes track the stranger’s every step, trying to pierce through her calm exterior to discern her true intent. Her suspicions harden into certainty when the stranger reaches behind her back. In a single, fluid motion, she withdraws a weapon—a lightsaber. Its red blade ignites with a menacing hum, the crystal’s energy crackling in the air between them. The sound alone is enough to send a jolt of anger and caution through Merrin's veins.

"It seems we find ourselves in quite the predicament," the stranger remarks, her voice cold and cutting. "The Empire has eyes and ears everywhere, and yesterday, a transport ship carrying a highly valuable prisoner went missing—precisely in this system. You wouldn't happen to know anything about that, would you?"

The stranger tilts her head on the other side, a cold and dark presence engulfing the space between them as Merrin considers her answer. The weapon in the stranger's hand can only indicate she's an agent of this so called Empire, and the realization sets in immediately. These are the people responsible for the Jedi purge, the new rulers of the entire galaxy as they proclaimed themselves.

"None but our brothers and sisters reside here," Merrin replies, her voice calm yet firm. "As I have said, we do not welcome outsiders."

"But you would be willing to give them away if, say, one so happens to land in the vicinity of your temple?" the imperial agent steps closer until she is face-to-face with Merrin.

"And what happens if I do not?" Merrin raises her eyebrows and simply stares at her with quiet defiance.

"Well then...you will all be branded as traitors to the Empire and executed on the spot. The Emperor does not take kindly to rebellious feats, and I assure you, if you lie, he will not be merciful," the agent straightens, her voice growing sharper, filled with menace.

The words hang menacingly in the air, as the young Jedi's fate is now hers and only hers to take. She can feel Valeria's intense stare burning through her scalp, begging her to take the offer and rid them of the Jedi for good. On her other side, Isea's fearful eyes and worried glances soften her decision while she wonders what happens once the Jedi is gone. Will the Empire kill him, or will he be turned into the same monster that faces her right now with beastly ferocity?

"The man you seek is not here," Merrin says at last, her voice steady. "Perhaps he escaped, or perhaps he is dead."

The Imperial agent studies her for a long, uncomfortable moment, her expression unreadable beneath the helmet. "Hmm... perhaps," she says finally, the corner of her mouth twitching beneath her visor. "Is that your final answer, witch?"

"It is. You will find no outsiders in our clan. I wish for you to leave now!" Merrin raises her hand as a green flame engulfs it.

For a moment, the stranger is silent, the tension crackling between them like the hum of her saber. Then, with a small scoff, she deactivates her weapon and swiftly clips it to her back. Turning on her heel, she motions for her soldiers to follow. As the group makes their way to the shuttle, the agent stops abruptly at its ramp.

She removes her helmet, revealing her face—dark hair framing empty, golden eyes that bore into Merrin like twin suns. Her lips curl into a knowing smile before she disappears into the ship. Moments later, the shuttle ascends, vanishing into the clouds.

"Foolish girl! You’ve doomed us all!" Valeria’s voice breaks the silence, her words filled with anger and despair. She storms toward Merrin, her fists clenched.

"You did the right thing, Merrin," Isea says softly, stepping forward to place a comforting hand on her shoulder. "If we had revealed the Jedi to them, they would have killed us all."

"Nonsense!" Valeria's voice rises with fury. "The only reason these imperial dogs sniff around here is because you ordered for him to be brought here! You defy even our Mother's wishes, and now we will all pay the price!"

"Valeria, stop!" Merrin's voice echoes inside the valley as she turns to face Isea with a betrayed look in her eyes." Is this true? Were you the one who planned this from the very start?"

"I only told our sisters to find a perfect match for you. Fate has made it possible for the Jedi to be in the right place at the right time, so yes. I was the one who gave the order for a Jedi to be brought here."

"You're completely mad! You endangered our Mother and the rest of our clan," Valeria steps closer, but Merrin stops her with her hand as she continues to stare at Isea, still hurt.

The proposition lingers in her mind now more than ever. The Empire growing closer to Dathomir was a serious threat, and deep down, she knew only terrible things would follow if they got caught. Valeria and Isea had both put her in a difficult position, with their contrasting opinions giving Merrin a massive headache. On the one hand, giving the Jedi to the Empire was the obvious choice, as that imperial agent will return without a doubt to claim what is rightfully hers.

On the other hand, protecting the Jedi from becoming a monster like the one they had just faced felt equally necessary. The galaxy had enough agents of the Empire spreading darkness and fear. If they allowed one more to rise, the safety of Dathomir itself would be jeopardized. So she decides once and for all, raising her voice as the indistinct chatter and arguing around her simmers down instantly.

"The Jedi's fate has been decided!"

Wide eyes stare at her, waiting anxiously for her response. She bites her lip and takes a deep breath, her voice eching throughout the temple's entrance.

"I will take the Jedi as my husband—if he agrees to it as well. In doing so, he will no longer be an outsider. Should the Empire return, we will claim him as one of our own, and they will have no authority to take him."

"But what if he refuses?" Fey asks sheepishly from the side in a small voice.

"Then he will spend the reminder of his days in his cell. Under no circumstances must we allow this Empire to shape him into a monster like the one we saw just now. Kora, I urge you to guide the Nightbrothers back into their village. I must speak with this Jedi alone."

"As you wish, Mother," Kora responds swiftly, already moving to gather the others and lead them away, back to the safety of their village.

The walk toward the dungeons is quiet and lonely for Merrin. The air grows colder as the walls darken with each step, the faint sound of her boots echoing in the descending corridor. With a snap of her fingers, green wisps ignite the torches along the stone walls, casting eerie shadows that flicker and dance. Since she became the Mother of the clan, Merrin had vowed that any who dared to harm her sisters would meet death or life imprisonment in these very cells. Yet, her reign had been unexpectedly peaceful, and the dungeon remained empty—save for its sole occupant.

With careful steps, she places herself near the cell and looks inside. The prisoner is asleep, muttering strange noises under his breath. She considers letting him enjoy his final moments of peace, but eventually decides to wake him up. The matter at hand cannot wait any longer.

She taps lightly on the metal bars, but the sound elicits no response. Annoyed, she taps harder. This time, the noise startles him awake, and the young man bolts upright, his head darting in every direction, his breath shallow.

"Who's there?" Cal shifts to his side, his hands throwing aside the cover on top of him. He backs into the corner of the cell and remains quiet, scanning for the sudden noise.

"What is your name, stranger?" Merrin's voice pierces the silence, sharp and commanding.

The prisoner’s face flickers with hesitation, a myriad of emotions crossing his features. His expression finally settles into a deep frown, and he lowers himself back down, wrapping his arms tightly around his knees.

"Oh, it's you. Why do you care?"

"Am I not allowed to know my enemy before I pass judgment on him? Or do you want me to continue calling you Jedi despite your denial of being one in the first place?" Merrin’s brow arches, unimpressed by his defiance.

"Fine," he replies, with a hint of hesitation in his voice. "I'm Cal Kestis. Now it's your turn. Who are you, and why did you kidnap me?"

"I am the leader and protector of this clan. My kin calls me Mother, but to you, I am simply Merrin."

"Merrin..." Cal repeats softly, his tone shifting. "A beautiful name. Why are you doing this, Merrin? Why bring me here against my will?"

She thinks about his question for a second, unsure of how to respond. So many years of plotting revenge against the Jedi, and now that one of their followers stands in front of her, she can't bring herself to do as promised.

"I do not have a simple answer for that, Cal Kestis," she admits. Her voice falters momentarily, then steadies. "For many years, the Nightsisters have deemed the Jedi our enemies, and nothing has changed since that monster laid waste to our people," Merrin takes a deep breath, a wave of anxiety suddenly present in her body.

"An imperial agent visited our clan not long ago. She was looking for an escaped prisoner, one of great importance to her."

Cal lowers his head, his forehead resting against his knees. He sighs heavily, his voice subdued when he finally speaks. "I thought you wanted to kill me. Now you’re planning to sell me to the Empire? How much are they offering?"

"They did not offer anything."

He raises his head, his lips curling into a bitter smile that quickly fades. "You realize what’ll happen if they find me here, right? They’ll kill everyone. Just like they killed my friends. This is bad—really bad."

Merrin stares at the young man in front of her. All this time spent rebuilding and recovering will eventually be gone, if what he says is true. There have been rumors of the Empire's reach expanding rapidly, but she never expected it to be so fast. When the Jedi were removed from power and the Empire took control, she foolishly believed they would be safe. But having seen the abomination they sent to deal with unwanted threats, she was inclined to be more merciful.

"There is a matter I wish to discuss with you," she says, her voice low and deliberate. "It is the sole reason why you are still standing here, alive."

Cal remains still, his eyes fixed on the stone floor as his fingers absently fidget with the rough fabric of his trousers. He doesn't reply as Merrin takes a deep breath, her voice echoing inside the dark cell ominously.

"I do not wish to harm you, Cal, despite my disdain for all things tarnished by your precious Jedi. But I also cannot say whether you are to be trusted."

"You say you don't want to hurt me, yet here I am, locked in a prison cell. Let me go, and I'll leave, far away. You won't see me or my kind here ever again. I promise!" Cal finally speaks, a deep, pleading look etched on his face.

"Your departure from Dathomir is out of the question. I have no guarantee you will not return and seek revenge."

"I won't!" Cal protests, his voice rising in frustration. "I already told you I'm peaceful. Why would I want revenge? All I want is to get out of this horrible place and go back home!"

Her eyebrows rise at his words, the sting of them sharper than she expects. Merrin knows how dangerous Dathomir is, but she loves her home deeply. Hearing it described as "horrible" by someone she considers a companion hurts. She lowers herself to the ground, mirroring his posture, her voice softer now.

"We take what we are given, Cal Kestis. I did not choose to be born on this planet, nor did I have a say in our ancient ways."

Cal’s expression shifts. "I’m sorry. I don’t mean it like that. I’m just… tired, " his voice softens as the regret in her tone strikes a chord. "Everything that’s happened so far has been awful. Honestly, this is the first time in months I’ve actually had a chance to rest properly."

"It is good to hear you do not despise us for treating you so harshly," Merrin says, a tender smile briefly gracing her lips before fading when she realizes he cannot see it.

"I don't hate you for kidnapping me; letting me go would be nice, but I guess that won't happen any time soon," he ads in a remorseful tone. "Also, the company's not as bad as I thought..." he smiles sheepishly, and suddenly Merrin's eyes light up.

"You wanted to tell me something?"

She stares at him, wondering if this was the right time to make her proposition. Even thinking about the words made her stomach knot, but she powers through it as she blurts the sentences out too fast. "I have a proposal for you, one that I believe will benefit the both of us."

"A proposal? he asks, confused. "I don't understand..."

"Our clan is strong and proud, but our numbers are short, and I have miscalculated the reach of our enemies. The Nightsisters have been bothering me for months to take a husband and provide many heirs, but so far none of the Nightbrothers have offered what I was looking for."

Cal’s jaw drops. "Wait... are you suggesting what I think, or am I going crazy? You wanna marry me?"

"It was a hard decision on my part, but to put it simply, yes, that is exactly what I wish for," Merrin swallows a tight knot, her throat now incredibly dry, as she stands up and glares at him with uneasiness.

"I don't even know what to say. Yesterday you wanted to kill me, and now... this... I can't get married! I'm a monk! I still serve the Jedi Order!" he gestures with his hands, his tone agitated.

"Your Order is gone," Merrin says gently. "I understand this might seem confusing—"

"Confusing?" Cal cuts her off, his tone rising. "What if I say no? What will you do with me then?" he rises to his feet and inches closer to the metal door. Merrin can spot the confusion on his features, and she steps closer until they are nearly face-to-face.

"If you refuse, you will remain here, inside this cell."

"So that's it then, huh? Marry a witch or spend the rest of my days in a dirty cell. Got it, thanks for clarifying!" Cal lets out a bitter laugh as he turns and slides down against the metal door, defeated. "You won't let me go..."

"I cannot. I will not allow the Empire to apprehend you and turn you into one of their soldiers."

"They won't catch me; I'll hide, they'll never find me! Trust me, I'm good at hiding..."

"And what if they do find you?"

"I won't be free here! I'll be your slave!"

"Better to live as a slave than die as a fool!" Merrin's voice echoes loudly into the chamber, her imposing tone filling the room with complete silence.

She instantly regrets yelling at him, and she can see his tense shoulders hunching in defeat. He refuses to speak for minutes while Merrin’s hearts begins to race. If Cal refuses to be her husband, she has no choice but to keep him here. At the very least, he will be fed and safe from the Empire's eyes until they decide to search for him again.

"Let's say I agree with this whole thing. I'm not saying I do now," Cal's voice sounds cold and detached, his back still turned on her, "But if I do, what will happen to me?"

"You will become one of us. There is a special ritual that must be performed in order for you to be welcomed into our clan," Merrin regains a bit of hope, her hearts returning to beat at a steady rhythm.

"So, like a wedding ceremony?"

"The great joining unites our souls together until we die. Once we are bonded, no one but me will be able to break the bond."

"I want to know more. If I'm to agree to do this, I have a lot of questions."

"State your mind, Cal. I will try to answer them as truthfully as possible," Merrin grows closer until she is near the metal bars. She can feel his stressed breathing, the shake in his fingers as he brushes his left hand through his long hair, and the curiosity in his voice while he begins to speak.

"Are all the Nightsisters married?"

"No. Only the leader of the clan has the right to choose a husband. The Nightbrothers are allowed to come and visit, but we do not live together."

"So you're just using them? For your own selfish gain?"

"It is an equivalent exchange. They provide us with offsprings, while we provide them with pleasure. These are our ways, and we follow the rules strictly. Of course, some of our sisters prefer the company of each other, as it is better to share a bond with someone you can share a bed with at night."

"I didn’t hear any children… I guess you pick who stays and who leaves," Cal adds bitterly.

"It would be wise to keep these types of questions at the back of your mind, Cal Kestis. There is much you do not know," Merrin’s voice is laced with warning.

"Fine," he sighs loudly. "So where will I sleep then? Once I become your precious husband."

"You will be taken to the Nightbrother village and live among them for the duration of our marriage. Only when it is time to perform our nightly duties will you be allowed to visit my chambers. I will send someone personally for you. We do not have to interact if you wish, and none of the Nightbrothers will harm you, as you will be under my protection."

Cal nods quickly but doesn't respond. She can feel the conflict inside him as he takes a shaky breath and runs his hand through his hair again. A common gesture for him when under stress, she notices.

"But what if I want to speak with you?"

"In such cases, if you require anything, the village elder will seek me out, and you will be permitted to visit me."

"All these rules and customs... it sounds complicated enough." he says in a resigned voice.

"It is, in fact, rather simple, Cal. All we have to do is perform our duties as husband and wife, nothing more. You will find life here on Dathomir quite exciting, that I can promise."

"I'm being forced to marry someone I don't even know, or else I risk spending my entire life behind bars. What could be more exciting than that?" his tone is completely ironic, the words coming out of his mouth already making Merrin's chest sting with regret.

A heavy weight presses on her chest, and she turns to leave, her frustration almost getting the better of her. She never expected him to be so relentless, yet a small part of her admires his resilience. Merrin wonders how she would react if she were to be put in his place and in the face of such a decision. Ever since she was a child, she was taught to survive no matter the cost, and now she was asking him to do the same.

"You have until midnight to decide your answer. I will leave you with your thoughts, Cal Kestis. Choose well."

"Wait!" he stops her as he gets on his feet quickly and grabs the bars with his hands. A small voice inside her rejoices. Perhaps she has already convinced him, and there is no need to wait until midnight.

"You can't do this! You can't just come here, tell me all this, and expect me to decide the rest of my life so fast!" he declares with a shaky voice, his eyebrows rising on his face.

"Merrin!" he calls out again, desperate.

She decides it is better to leave now unless she decides she wants another heated argument. Her feet guide her slowly towards the exit, with the young man screaming in frustration at her. If this is what married life feels like, she was beginning to doubt her decision. Nevertheless, her mind was set. Now all she had to do was wait for Cal's answer.

"This is all Isea's fault..." she sighs in annoyance.

It’s obvious he resents her for kidnapping him and bringing him here, but deep down, Merrin knows there’s more than that. His devotion to the Jedi Order no doubt forbids him many things, with marriage possibly being one of them. Still, she will wait for his decision and honor whatever he chooses.

Chapter Text

A massive headache is currently present inside Cal's head like never before. As soon as Merrin left, he sank to the floor and stayed there for hours, unable to move. Her proposal had taken him by surprise, as he never in his life expected this to happen. The life of a monk was a simple one, and he enjoyed it just like that. Sure, there were rules to be followed, every Order had them, but he never felt trapped, and he could always leave if he wanted to do so.

But this? This was something else entirely. Merrin was a stranger, a Dathomiri witch who practiced dark magick, a form of force manipulation strictly forbidden by his kind. He was brought here yesterday, and already the Nightsisters were forcing their rules and customs on him.

Cal tries to calm himself and understand her motives. If it's children she wants so badly, he can provide her with those. But just the mere thought of being used as a simple reproduction instrument was making his stomach turn greatly. What if he agrees and he cannot give her children? Will she throw him back into his cell or simply kill him?

A silent tear traces down his cheek as he continues to ponder his fate. Living inside this cell would be hell for him, as the tight, confined space gives him little room for imagination. At least if he marries her, he will live in that mentioned village and have people to interact with. Silence was and still is his worst enemy, and he tries to reach out through the Force to feel an echo around him and familiarize himself with his surroundings. The place is definitely big, and he feels every empty room around him, the dampness in the air indicating these cells have not been used in a long, long time.

An idea crosses his mind. The blanket he used to sleep with last night feels new, and someone must have put it there before he was brought here. His hands reach out until they find it, tucked in the corner. The silence around him gives him the perfect setting to concentrate, the Force flowing around and through him until his darkness is filled with vivid images.

There is a gentle breeze dashing past him as he sees himself in the place of another, her feet strong as she holds a long spear in one hand and the blanket in the other. She walks past a handful of young women, their attire so strange and unusual that he almost loses his concentration for a moment. These women were so different from the female monks at the monastery, their attires far more daring and revealing.

Cal takes a deep breath as he tries to scan every face in the crowd and remember it. There are not many, but each is fairly young and beautiful, their silver hair and dark tattoos quite intriguing. The Nightsister leaves them behind and begins her descent, passing by a gigantic library. She crosses the chamber and walks for a while, eventually reaching what he can only assume is his current holding place. His heart begins to ache, now knowing there is a place of learning right above his head. So many scrolls and books probably lay untouched, and the memory fades as he brings a steady hand to his face and rubs his temple thoroughly.

Logic and reason begin to tempt him, and he thinks about his life up until this point. If the universe hates him so much, why did he get saved from certain death only to be put in the face of such a tough decision? Everything happens for a reason, he slowly realizes as he begins to truly consider Merrin's offer. A life of servitude towards a Dathomiri witch sounds better than scouring for food and running from the Empire every day.

Hours pass as Cal sits in the same spot, his decision already made. Before a sense of complete loneliness can settle in his bones, the sound of a door opening makes him jump from his place. Someone is approaching rapidly, and he straightens his robes, clearing the dust from them as he tries to make himself look more presentable, or so he thinks. He has no idea what he actually looks like right now.

Slender steps and soft breathing are all Cal needs to know that the Mother is here, no doubt impatient to hear his response. The click of her heeled boots stops as soon as she reaches in front of the cell's door, and she takes a deep breath.

"I have returned as promised at midnight. Tell me, Cal, have you decided what happens next?"

He listens to the sound of her voice, an almost wavering regret lingering among her words. If he didn't know better, he would believe Merrin actually feels bad doing this, but so far she's made no effort to voice her regret. In fact, if she did feel sorry, she would release him instead of forcing him to make a decision that would affect the rest of his life.

"I did," he replies in a cold and empty voice, desperate to mask the deep anxiety in his entire body.

"And?"

Cal stops for a moment and thinks. Many hours have passed since she made her proposition, and he had plenty of time to think, but now that she's here, he suddenly feels small and anxious, doubting his decision. There was little time to waste—that much he already knew—and he exhales deeply as he begins to speak.

"I accept your proposal...with one condition."

He can hear the small sound of relief coming from Merrin's lips as she steps closer to the cell. He's not sure, but he imagines a deep smirk on her face, probably deeply satisfied with her victory.

"Very well. What is it?"

"If we have children, I want to meet them. I won't be used as a tool and disregarded while my children grow up without a father. We don't have to live together, but I want them to visit me and for me to visit them whenever I want. It's the least you can do for what you're asking from me."

Merrin is suddenly quiet, and Cal's mouth is set into a fine line, anxious to hear what she has to say. The proposition is not unreasonable, and he feels she will be inclined to agree, despite their unusual customs.

"I accept your terms," she reaches out with one hand and wraps her fingers around the metal bars. "You will not regret this decision, Cal Kestis. You have my word."

"Your word means nothing if you can't keep it."

"The Nightsisters of Dathomir have never made a promise they did not honor. You will have your wish as you have already granted mine."

"Alright. So it's settled then," he takes a shaky breath, barely realizing what he agreed to. "So now what?" Cal asks as he grows closer to the cell's door.

"There are a lot of preparations to be made for tomorrow night. I must take my leave to ensure everything is in order, but you will be taken to the Nightbrother village to be prepared for the ceremony."

"Tomorrow night? I thought it takes at least a few days to... you know, prepare everything," he panics, the reality of the situation slowly but surely settling in. His knees begin to shake as a small bead of sweat travels down his back and two more others on the sides of his temples.

"These are not matters that you should be concerned about. By tomorrow night, the ceremony will be ready to be performed, and we will be united as one."

"Do I have to do or say anything?" he asks again, with a hint of uncertainty in his voice.

"All you have to do is be present and drink from a special cup."

"Oh. Well, I can do that," he flashes a stressed smile, his shoulder tensing and the corners of his mouth dropping instantly.

"I suggest you rest for now. There will be much to be done tomorrow, but for now, it is best if you calm your mind."

Cal nods quickly, his lips setting into a fine line. He can hear the sound of her boots growing distant, until complete silence surrounds the entire room. He lets out a small, shaky breath and inhales again, this time louder. As soon as he exhales, he lowers himself to the floor and thinks.

There are certainly less fortunate things that could have happened to him since the monastery was attacked and the Jedi were slain. Being delivered to the Empire to be killed or, worse, tortured into submission was one of those things, and for once, he feels grateful for his current position.

Shaky hands grab the blanket from the floor and raise it until he is fully covered. A good night's sleep should indeed clear his mind and prepare him for the next day, though what exactly expects him, he has not even the smallest clue.

The morning air on Dathomir is considerably thinner and less dry than the one on Jedha. Even the sun feels different, with its rays burning into his scalp while the Nighsisters guide him towards his new home. Both are silent as they walk beside him, and it doesn't take long until one of them stops and begins to speak.

"We are here, interloper. Orin, the village elder, will arrive shortly to guide you inside the village. Behave yourself and prepare accordingly for tonight," she warns lightly as she frees his hands from the tight rope and gives him a gentle pat on the shoulder.

"Wait here!" the other one, Fey, he believes it is by the sound of her harsh voice, demands.

"Must you always be so harsh with him? He has done us no harm."

"I will never trust a Jedi, Kora. They only bring death and sorrow everywhere they go. You would be wise to follow my advice."

"Still not a Jedi…" Cal mutters under his breath, annoyed.

The sound of their voices diminishes as the women leave his side, arguing among themselves. Even in small circles, conflict is always present, no matter the issue, as Cal remains quietly in his place. He considers running, but if he wants to leave, his surroundings are incredibly unfamiliar, and even with the help of the Force, his sense of direction is faint.

"You must be Cal," the sound of a low voice startles him, and he turns in its direction, searching for its owner.

"Yeah, that's me. Are you Orin, the village elder?" he replies in a shy voice.

"I am. Though I'm not as old as the Nightsisters claim," the man replies with a more lively voice. His hand lands on Cal's right shoulder and gives him a short squeeze.

"Tall and strong! It's no wonder the Mother chose you as her mate!" he releases a quick laugh, the sentence making Cal sink further into himself, embarrassed.

"I didn't exactly have a choice. Is either this or stay in a dirty cell forever..." Cal laments in a bitter voice, still reeling from the shock.

"Hmm..." Orin replies, "Is the Mother not to your liking? She is young and beautiful, and many Nightbrothers would kill to be given the opportunity to only share her bed for one night, let alone wed her..."

"I wouldn't know. I can't see her, but by the sound of her voice, she seems kinda scary."

"Ha! All Nightsisters are scary, my boy! That's what makes the prize so much sweeter... once you've been chosen as their mate, it's the highest honor you can be given. And the sex—well, I don't have to tell you twice, but it's maddening! Once you taste it, you'll be begging for more, I guarantee!"

All the blood from Cal's extremities seems to have traveled to his face, as he could feel himself burning hot despite the cold, morning air. Such matters were never discussed in the monastery, and he once again finds himself at a loss for words. So he simply nods and swallows a dry lump in his throat. He can hear Orin snikering by his side as he leads him into the village. As soon as they arrive, he can hear male voices whispering amongst themselves, their words intelligible as Orin leads him with a hand steadily placed on his back. They walk for a few more minutes until the talking simmers down and the atmosphere becomes quieter.

"We have arrived. For now on, this will be your permanent residence. The Nightsisters have informed us of your lack of sight, so I hope you will find this place easy to navigate."

"Thank you, Orin." Cal breathes the air inside, while the smell of leather pelts and cooked food is already invading his nostrils. He turns to feel a wooden pillar at the center of the room, the wool wrapped around it making his fingers itch.

"If you need anything, my home is at the end of the road. I must return to my duties for now."

"Wait! You're leaving? Don't you have to prepare me for the ceremony or anything?" Cal's eyebrows rise on his face in confusion.

"Oh, we have plenty of time for that. I will send word to the other Nightbrothers to fetch you once I am done. There are still a few more details to be finished before we can begin," he replies and leaves immediately after.

Cal remains alone inside the room. His senses begin to scan the area, the force indicating there is a small bowl of freshly made stew waiting for him inside the kitchen. His stomach growls loudly, and before he can think it, he's already at the table and digging into the delicious food.

This place doesn't seem so bad, he thinks as he finishes his meal and places the ceramic bowl back on the table. The house feels small, with a bed to his side and the main room that also serves as a kitchen. Still, it is better than nothing, and it is certainly better than that awful cell.

He rubs his face with his hands, still absolutely bewildered by his current situation. Only a few days ago, he was a celibate man following the ways of the monks, and now he's betrothed and soon to be married to a witch out of all people. First comes the ceremony, then, well... Cal feels a mix of anticipation and dread wash over him. The monks were supposed to be pure, to live similarly to the Jedi, and to renounce all forms of attachment, even those of the flesh. But tonight, he will have to abdicate every oath he took so far and perform his duty as a husband toward his new wife.

A hint of curiosity replaces his anticipation, wondering what it feels like to give your body and soul to another person. For them, it was simply sex, a primal form of pleasure, but to him, it means so much more. Even as a monk, Cal sometimes wondered what it would be like to have a family, a significant other, and even a child of his own.

Mediation always helps clear his mind, and he lowers himself on his knees in the center of the room as he prepares himself, his hands neatly placed on his knees while he closes his eyes and begins.

A knock on his door interrupts what seems like hours of meditation, and he raises himself to his feet and walks to the door. As soon as he opens it, he feels a rough hand on his wrist, dragging him until he is outside.

"Orin has sent for you!" One of the Nightbrothers speaks in an imposing voice.

Before he can reply, he is shoved reluctantly further into the street. Cal follows the Nightbrother, his mind still clouded with the peace of meditation. It doesn't take long for them to reach the end of the street, and Cal makes sure to count his steps and memorize them in case he finds himself in need of Orin's help again.

"Ah, I see you're already here! Good, I sent word a few minutes ago for someone to fetch you."

Cal remains quiet as he steps inside and remains alone with Orin as the other Nightbrother retreats outside without saying a word, slamming the door behind him.

"What's his problem?" Cal asks with a scoff.

"Who? Kylen? It is nothing. Do not worry about him."

"He seemed pretty upset. I don't think he likes me that much," Cal steps closer and reaches out with his hand until he finds the back of a wooden chair. He sits down and waits for what will happen next.

"It is not my place to speak... but I have heard whispers into the village that the Nightbrothers have taken great offense with the Mother choosing an outsider as her mate," Orin grows closer to Cal, and he takes a seat next to him. "Nevertheless, we shouldn't listen to idle gossip..."

"But if that's true, isn't the Mother in danger? What if they try to hurt her?"

"The Nightbrothers may be proud, and their ego is hurt at the very moment, but they are not stupid. None of them would even consider harming the leader of our clan. It will take time for them to adjust to this sudden change, but I promise you all will be well."

Cal nods but does not answer. The seed of doubt has already been planted in his mind, and he fears some might even try to disrupt the ceremony. Maybe Orin was right and nothing will happen, or maybe the Nightbrothers were already plotting their strike while everyone else remains oblivious.

"Come, I must prepare you for the great joining," Orin stands up and grabs Cal by the hand.

He guides him into a different chamber and drags Cal's hand until it meets a soft fabric. Cal traces his fingers on the velvety smooth material while a gentle smile flashes on his lips. "What is it?"

"It is your formal tunic. I gathered the finest material and worked hard all day and night for this magnificent thing. Oh, my boy, if only you could see it..."

"It feels so soft and light. I've never had anything like this in my life," he continues to feel the material with his hands, the sensation so pleasant that he almost does not want to stop. With the help of the Force, he can sense the proximity of Orin growing closer as he places a steady hand on his shoulder.

"We should not linger for long. The ceremony is only a few hours away, and there is much to be done beforehand."

"I thought all I had to do was show up and drink from a fancy cup," he says, letting go of the material as a more confused expression crosses his features.

The sound of loud laughter almost makes him laugh as well, his mind still deeply confused. Merrin never explained the entire details of the ceremony, and now he feels incredibly stupid for not daring to ask more. A small headache begins to creep in as he slowly but surely imagines what could happen tonight.

The tunic feels so soft on his skin that he almost feels like he is wearing nothing. The clink of jewelry takes him by surprise, but Orin explains that he needs to be adorned with golden coins at the neck and on his wrists to match his bride. Cal wonders how ridiculous he looks right now. Outlandish garments and fine jewelry on a simple monk just feel wrong, but he will not question their customs, nor will he refuse them.

There are far worse fates than this, he keeps chanting inside this mind as Orin finishes. He steps back and guides Cal onto one of the chairs, ordering him to sit down. Cold fingers greet his face, and Cal flinches for a moment, unsure of what is happening.

"Stand still, or the lines will come out jagged!" Orin speaks as he steadies Cal's head with his other hand.

"What are you doing to me?"

"I am marking you with our clan's symbols. All the Nightbrothers have tattoos on their faces to represent our allegiance to our Mother. Since you do not have them, a simple paint made from clay will suffice."

Orin resumes his job as he tries to stand as still as possible. Two fingers trace down his eyes, a straight line on each side. Another line is felt drawn from the top of his lip all the way down his neck. His forehead is also marked with multiple strokes, as are his cheeks.

"All done. You may stand."

The clay feels a bit rough on his face, but not unpleasant. Cal dares to place a wandering finger to feel its composition, but the slap of a hand stops him before he can reach it.

"Do not touch it! Let it dry," Orin scolds him.

"Sorry," Cal responds in a quiet voice as a faint smirk appears on his lips. "Hey Orin?"

"Yes, my boy!"

"Do you have a mirror?"

"A mirror? For a blind man?" the tone of his voice sounds just as confused as his expression might be.

"Yeah. I know it sounds strange, but please humor me..." Cal turns to face his direction.

"Alright. Let me see," he starts pacing around the room, his hands busy searching.

Cal takes a deep breath and begins to concentrate. A million thoughts race inside his mind, but if this is to work, he needs to feel something other than fear. He's done it before, at the monastery, placing his own echoes on objects so that later he might catch a glimpse of his face. But that happened many years ago, and right now, he feels deeply curious about what he looks like.

The mirror was a perfect opportunity for him to see himself as he is now, adorned and marked by Dathomirian tradition. Perhaps he can even study the makings on Orin as well, to see how they differ.

A petite object is placed shortly after in his own hand, a hand mirror, no doubt. He begins to trace the mirror in front of him, careful not to miss any details. A sudden wave of anticipation, mixed with something else, washes over him. His stomach ties into small knots, his hand shaking lightly upon realizing what comes after.

"Take it and hide it somewhere safe until I ask for it," he declares in a soft voice, placing the mirror on the floor.

"As you wish. Now come, let us leave before we are late. The Mother awaits us."

Chapter Text

There hasn't been a great joining on Dathomir since Merrin was a small child. She remembers how cheerful everyone seemed that day, with the festivities stretching for days and into the entire valley. This ceremony will be considerably smaller than that one, but Merrin has hope it will lead to a better future.

Her bridal robes felt heavy on top of her, with the dark red and black cloth draping over her until it reached the ground. Her headpiece was adorned with so many golden coins that she feared it might fall from her head simply from the weight. Still, traditions must be performed, and she sighs deeply as Isea fastens another gold bracelet on her left wrist.

"That is enough, Isea. I feel as if I carry all the gold from Dathomir on me..."

"Nonsense, Mother! You look amazing!" she releases a short, kind laugh as she steps back and admires her.

Merrin returns the smile as she steps forward and takes a glance into a nearby mirror. To say she was dressed from head to toe was an understatement, and she anxiously awaits the moment to shed all these fancy robes in exchange for a more comfortable look. She takes a deep, anxious breath, wondering what her future husband is doing in this moment. Probably cursing her beyond belief for forcing him to live among the Nightbrothers, she scoffs lightly, finding herself thinking about him more often. The village is relatively safe, and Orin is as loyal as it could get, so she tries not to worry about him and concentrate on the task ahead.

The ceremony will last through the night, and every ritual must be performed in order. Since she is the bride and cannot perform the ritual herself, the important task falls on the second oldest and wisest Nightsister in the clan.

Valeria had made her opinion on this matter known without holding back, but when Merrin asked her to perform the rituals, she agreed without second thought. Though she knows it will take far more than this to soften her heart and make her accept Cal as one of their own.

"It is almost time. Come, Isea, let us leave at once and not delay this further," Merrin declares in a determined voice. The younger Nightsister strolls in front of her, opening the doors to her chambers as Merrin walks outside, her knees shaking in stress.

As soon as they reach the grand hall, Merrin begins to realize just how far her clan has come since the painful massacre. Only a few years had passed, but her people were only growing stronger as everyone stood inside the tall chamber, the festivities already in full session. The place was beautifully decorated with large candles and wild red flowers brought from all across the planet.

Numerous trays of food and more barrels of wine than she could count are scattered throughout the room. So many tables and chairs were brought in that she wonders when the local carpenters even had time to make them. A sudden sense of pride fills her body as she walks among them, with everyone carefully retreating to the side until she reaches the other side of the room.

The laughter of a few small children makes her smile, their offsprings enjoying the festivities greatly, while the Nightbrothers laugh and chat among themselves, already inebriated. It's as good an excuse as any to get drunk, and she gestures with her fingers for a large cup of wine to be delivered next to her seat.

Playful music reaches her ears as two large, wooden chairs greet her. One for her and one for her future husband, his absence notable as she tries to scan the room for him. Orin must be preparing him thoroughly, and she takes as seat, admiring her clan from her place. Kora and Fey walk to her side, their weapons ready in case someone tries to disturb the cheerful atmosphere. She gives them a reassuring smile as she waits, the main door opening suddenly.

She can spot Lorys and a familiar figure walking behind her, his attire so delicate and beautiful that it almost makes Merrin gasp. All the guests cast uncertain glances at him, with an uncomfortable silence engulfing the entire room until Lorys arrives in front of her. Merrin catches a glimpse of Cal behind Lorys, his neutral expression without a doubt masking his anxiousness.

"Behold, Mother, your betrothed!" Lorys speaks in a loud voice, and she pulls at the rope in her hands, the gesture making Cal take a step forward and walk in front of her.

Merrin stops and stares at him for a second with focused eyes. He keeps his head down, his gaze fixed on the ground, while he stands with his hands in front of him, tightly bound by rope. There is a quiet shiver that travels all over his body, and she stands up quickly, not wanting to prolong the uncomfortable silence.

"Let the great joining begin!" she declares loudly and steps forward to take a closer look.

Cal remains silent, head still bowed, as she grows closer and places a soft hand under his chin. She raises his head without his protest and observes the intricate pattern drawn on his face. He swallows a tight knot in his throat as he clears his voice and speaks.

"See? I showed up like I promised, all nice and pretty for you..." he jokes suddenly, the declaration taking Merrin by surprise.

"You are indeed quite handsome, dressed like this," she releases a short laugh while her eyes travel down his exquisite tunic until they reach his bound hands. Merrin places her steady hands on his and leans closer to whisper in his ear.

"Do not have fear. Once the ceremony starts, I will set you free from your bonds."

Cal simply nods, a more relaxed expression set on his features as she takes his hands and guides him towards his seat. Once he is seated, she takes her place beside him and remains silent, her eyes still fixed on him. She notices his peaceful demeanor and the way he awkwardly sits in his spot. So she tries to ease his discomfort by making small talk with him.

"Do you wish for a cup of wine to drink while we wait for Valeria to begin? You must be parched from this horrid heat."

"Oh, no... I'm good. I don't drink alcohol," Cal replies in a more steady voice, his attention now solely on her.

"You jest? Everyone drinks wine. What do your monks drink then?" Merrin leans closer, deeply intrigued.

"Mostly just water or...tea."

"Tea? What is that?"

"Oh, it's just disgusting leaf water. I hate it, but since there was nothing else to drink there, I got used to it."

"How sad your lives must have been to deprive yourself of the best pleasures in life! Here on Dathomir, we drink more wine than water as most of our rivers are poisoned. Remember this if you ever venture into the wilds and find yourself in need of a drink."

"I'll keep that in mind," Cal replies with a smirk, but it fades quickly as he continues to speak. "About what you said... our lives were not sad and I miss the monks dearly. My only consolation is that now they're free and don't have to suffer under the oppression of this Empire."

His tone sounds bitter and sorrowful and she smiles as she tries to distract his mind with more cheerful subjects. "What about our music, Cal Kestis? Do you enjoy it?"

"It's very loud, but I don't hate it. Definitely different from the sacred chants we used to listen to on Jedha," he gestures with a quick shrug and sets his gaze ahead. "Anyway, I like what you've done with the place. It looks great!" he gestures with his bound hands vaguely.

"See those red flowers hanging from the ceiling?" She points toward a large floral arrangement. "They were brought all the way from down the valley to strengthen our union. Some of the ancient records even talk about - Oh," her face suddenly goes even paler than her gray complexion, and she quickly turns to face him with a deeply apologetic look on her face.

"I sincerely apologize! You said-"

A mischievous laugh interrupts her as it escapes Cal's lips, the gesture making Merrin raise her eyebrows and widen her eyes at him in surprise. His face continues to display a cheeky grin as he turns his head to face her, and she releases a quick laugh shortly after, still bewildered by his daring joke.

A comfortable silence falls between them as they both wait for the ceremony to finally begin. Merrin can't help but feel a sense of ease in Cal's presence, pleased with his ability to lighten the mood. Valeria is unexpectedly by her right side as she leans forward and whispers into her ear. The time for rituals has come, and Merrin gives her a quick nod as she stands. She can see Cal in the corner of her eye, sitting quietly, and she leans to his side, instructing him to stand up.

The chairs are removed as the music stops, filling the room with complete silence. Every eye inside the chamber is fixed on them, and Merrin takes a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. She steps closer until she is face-to-face with Cal, and she gives him a reassuring squeeze on his hands, noting his abrupt nervousness as the ceremony begins.

All the Nightsisters are gathered around her, chanting ominously while Valeria's hands begin to glow a familiar shade of bright green. With both of her palms joined together, she begins to chant louder, her green magick filling the atmosphere. Slowly, her hands part as a small blade is conjured from thin air. The dagger floats in the air as Valeria's eyes begin to glow the same shade of neon green, and she grabs the hilt with one hand while her other one holds a large golden cup filled with wine.

"The Mother and her betrothed will now be joined forever through blood," she speaks with a powerful voice, the sound echoing inside the tall room.

Valeria places the cup in Merrin's right hand and waits. Merrin extends her other hand, and the Nightsister cuts her palm with the dagger in a swift motion. As the blood begins to flow from her palm, Merrin squeezes her fist and raises it above the cup until the crimson droplets mix with the red Dathomirian wine. Her eyes begin to glow as well, as a warm flame encompasses the thin wound on her palm, healing it instantly.

Merrin grabs the knife from Valeria's hand and, with a handful of quick motions, cuts the rope around Cal's wrists. He shakes his hands as the blood begins to flow back into his fingers, and she places the cup in his left hand. Before he can react, she repeats the gesture, cutting his palm lightly.

Cal winces at the sting of the blade, but he does not protest as she closes his fist with her hand and guides it above the cup until his blood is mixed with the wine forever. Merrin keeps his fist closed as her eyes light up again, the sting in his palm disappearing with the aid of her magick.

"Drink from the cup," Valeria declares again, and Cal obliges without hesitation, his expression changing from calmness to bitterness as he takes a small sip of the sacred wine.

Merrin tries hard not to smile at his reaction, her expression incredibly serious as she steals the cup from his hands and takes a larger sip from it. As the remaining Nightsisters continue to chant, their hands light up in green flames, and the air inside the room fills with green wisps. The chanting stops as silence fills the room once more, with Valeria's imposing voice echoing above all.

"The great joining has been completed! We welcome the outsider Cal Kestis as one of our own!" she raises her hands in the air. The rest of the guests follow her, cheering and shouting as the room is filled with a more cheerful atmosphere.

"Was that all of it?" Cal leans forward toward Merrin and asks in a low voice, barely above a whisper.

"Far from it, husband. The ceremony has barely begun. First we feast, then we battle," she replies in a nonchalant tone.

"What? You want me to fight you? Are you crazy?!" he grows more agitated near her, and she releases a short chuckle as she places a comforting hand on the side of his face.

"We are not the ones who will be in combat, Cal. It is customary at every joining for the best warriors from our clan to put themselves forward and duel. Only the strongest warriors may win, and when they do, they have the right to choose a Nightsister of their liking to bed them for one night."

"Yeah, okay. That definitely makes more sense," Cal nods to himself, still confused.

The night continues as the music begins to play again, filling the air with a sense of joy. The Nightsisters begin to mingle inside the large crowd, eyeing the Nightbrothers with longfull looks.

Merrin notices Valeria returning to her table, glaring at her new husband with a peculiar look in her eyes. The resentment was still there, hidden cleverly under a more neutral façade, but Merrin was aware of her true thoughts. Nevertheless, she will not allow anyone, not even her sisters, to ruin this perfect night.

So she guides Cal to a nearby table and places herself next to him as they begin to eat and drink while listening to Orin's exaggerated stories from before the purge. She can see Cal's wide expression as he takes a large bite from one of the meals in front of him, followed by another, even larger one immediately.

"This is great! What is it?" he asks with his mouth full.

"Scazz steak. My personal favorite. Here, have some wine to sweeten the taste," she reaches out for one of the filled cups on the table and places it in front of him. Cal's expression waivers for a moment, contemplating her words.

"I guess one cup of wine won't hurt me....I mean I already had a small taste," he accepts the cup in his hands and brings it to his lips. He stops suddenly, unsure.

"It is better to drink it fast. That way, you do not feel the alcohol so strong," Merrin places a finger under the cup and raises it slowly until a droplet of wine spills on his lips.

He gives a quick nod, and without thinking much, he downs the whole cup in one large sip, the edges of the cup spilling to his sides as he slams the cup back on the table, a deeply painful grimace etched on his face. His face is now a deep shade of red, the corners of his eyes bursting with small tears.

"Kriffin' hell, Merrin!"

The whole table erupts into loud laughter as Merrin grins and leans closer while she places a steady hand on his shoulder to seemingly comfort him. "It seems I also jest like you, husband," she declares, deeply pleased with her prank.

"I made a joke!" he coughs loudly. "You almost killed me!" Cal speaks through ragged breaths, his face contorting in painful expressions while the strong alcohol burns his entire body.

"Do not be so serious, Cal. If I wanted to kill you, I would have simply fed you Kora's midnight meals!"

"My cooking is not so bad!" Kora protests from her seat with a laugh, and she raises her wine cup in the air with a swift motion. "To our Mother and her new spouse: May she lead our clan into a better future, and may her husband provide her with as many children as possible!" she shouts as the rest of the guests around the table raise their cups and cheer.

Merrin watches Cal with the corners of her eyes as she raises her cup, the uncomfortable look on his features making her think. She smiles at him, the corners of her mouth dropping as soon as she sits down and takes a good look at him again.

Only a few days ago, the Jedi were her sworn enemies, and yet now she finds herself married to one who follows their ways. Not a Jedi, she keeps reminding herself, but a peaceful monk who so happens to be young and, dare she think it, quite attractive. Perhaps this arranged marriage will not be such a nuisance, and she will even find herself enjoying the company of her new husband.

The sound of loud drums interrupts her thoughts, and she turns swiftly to spot all the Nightbrothers departing their tables and heading outside.

"What's happening?" Cal tugs at her sleeve, confused.

"The duels will commence shortly. Come, we must take our places before it begins," she grabs him by the hand and guides him through the crowd until the cold air outside hits her face. She walks past Valeria, with the Nightsister casting a calculating glance towards her and turning her head immediately afer.

Merrin has no time for petty squabbles as she continues to guide Cal towards the fighting arena. They both take place at the highest seats, while a dozen Nightbrothers gather inside the arena, all armed with blunt weapons.

"Will they fight to the death?" Cal asks with a worried tone.

"Not anymore. Once I was appointed the leader of this clan, I prohibited them from killing each other. Our numbers are as few as they are, and I will not spill more blood than has already been shed. They may injure themselves, but death is strictly forbidden."

"You did a good thing. I can sense so much death inside this place, and I don't want to see more."

"You can sense it?" Merrin turns to face him with a confused look in her eyes.

"Not everywhere, but some objects and places hold strong echoes in the Force, usually if something of great importance happens. This place has seen so much death that I felt the echo strong as soon as I sat down."

"So you can gaze into the past, like a clairvoyant?"

"That's the only place where I can actually see..." his voice trails off while his expression turns to a more serious one.

Merrin remains silent as she ponders Cal's statement. The loud drums stop as the Nighrothers take place inside the arena, waiting for her cue. She stands up and raises her hand, a green flame apering shortly after at the tip of her fingers. Merrin closes her fist as the flame dissipates and the duels begin.

Twelve Nightbrothers take their place, with six on each side of the arena. As soon as Merrin gives the signal, they begin to fight, each choosing an opponent they deem worthy. The sound of clashing weapons fills the arena as they engage in fierce combat, their movements fluid and precise.

The touch of a warm hand captures her attention as Cal grabs her left hand and squeezes gently. A kind smile flashes on his lips. "Describe to me what's happening down there."

Merrin's eyes light up as she glances at his curious expression, his head moving left and right while he listens closely to the sound of battle.

"One of the Nightbrothers has already been downed. Only eleven remain in the fight."

"Who do you think will win?" Cal asks with genuine interest.

"Our clan has many fierce warriors, and I cannot say for sure who will emerge victorious, but if I were to pick a few, I would say Yazo, Valrig, or Kylen are among the strongest."

"Kylen? I know that name. He was the one who brought me to Orin to be prepared for the ceremony. He seemed very upset that I was there."

"Do not concern yourself with the likes of him, Cal. Many Nightbrothers may threaten, but they are like Bane-Backs who only hiss but do not bite. Another Nightbrother has been defeated. Ten remain."

"I don't want to fight with them. As long as I live in their village, I want to exist among them peacefully, if that's even possible," Cal releases a short sigh.

"Nothing is impossible. Would you have imagined yourself as a member of our clan only a day ago?" Merrin replies with a kind voice. She gives him a gentle squeeze on the hand.

"I guess you're right."

"Eight Nightbrothers remain. It seems Yazo has taken to dueling Valrig..."

"That doesn't sound right. Why go for the strongest one when you can take out the weak ones first? He's bound to lose." Cal replies, while Merrin gestures a small smirk in his direction and pulls him closer to her.

"I was under the impression that monks have no knowledge of battle strategies. You continue to surprise me, Cal Kestis."

"I wasn't always a monk, and one of my close friends was a great Jedi general. Every time he visited me on Jedha, he would tell me about the many battles he took part in. He even taught me some small tricks, though I barely use them. I never heard from him after the purge, but I hope he's still alive."

"What was his name?"

"Jaro Tapal. He took care of me after the Jedi Council refused to welcome me into their Order. They said it was because of my age, that I was too old, but..."

"Six Nightbrothers remain. Yazo has fallen, just like you predicted. The battle continues, and Kylen has taken the lead." Merrin speaks in a sad voice, eyeing Cal with a hint of regret. She begins to wonder why he still continued to serve the Jedi Order, even after their swift rejection.

"He's strong. Maybe he'll win. Who do you think he'll choose?"

"Well..." she places a hand under her chin and begins to ponder his question. "There are not many Nightsisters to select from, but I believe he will go for Isea. I have seen the way he looks at her, and if he wins, he will finally have the chance to be with her, if only for one night."

"Do you think he loves her?" Cal turns his head to face her with a sincere smile on his lips.

"I pity him if he does. Isea's heart lies in another place, and even if Kylen mates with her, she will forget about him the moment he leaves her chambers."

"That sounds really sad, but I guess it's not that different from what we'll have." Cal replies with a quick sigh, suddenly avoiding her stare.

"No, I suppose it is not..." Merrin speaks with a hint of remorse in her voice. "Four Nightbrothers still stand. The battle is fierce, but it seems Kylen is beginning to tire."

"Or he's resting, preparing for the final duel."

Merrin gives Cal an intrigued look, as Kylen does indeed seem to retreat to the side as another Nighbrother falls. Only three remain, and Valrig delivers a crushing final blow to his opponent, his loud breath audible inside the whole arena.

"Only Kylen and Valrig are left. The duel will resume shortly." Merrin stares down at the two Nightbrothers below, who prepare themselves for the incoming fight.

"Wanna make a bet?" Cal's face displays that adorable playful grin again, making Merrin's hearts skip for a moment.

"Gambling as well? Have you more surprises left?" she cocks her head and raises her eyebrow at him. "I accept your challenge. I wage Kylen will emerge victorious in this battle."

"Hmm... My credits are on Valrig on this one, without a doubt."

"So sure of yourself, are you, husband?" She gives him a cheeky look. "What exactly is the prize for this gamble?"

"If I win, you get to grant me another wish," he declares in a thrilled voice.

"And what if you lose? What will I do with you then?" She asks in a suggestive tone, the declaration making Cal's cheeks blush profoundly.

"Then I get to fulfill one of your wishes. Whatever you want, I'll do it." his cheeks are now impossibly red, and Merrin traces her own finger delicately over the back of this hand, the gesture making him sigh deeply while a shiver travels down his back.

"Whatever I want... do hold onto your words, Cal," she suddenly stands up from her seat. " Kylen has already downed Valrig a few seconds ago, and the duel has ended. I win!" she replies in a deeply satisfied voice.

"You...you cheated!" Cal's eyebrows rise in his face as he turns to face Merrin with his mouth agape. Suddenly, a grin replaces his shock, followed by a short, strained laugh.

"I did not. Valrig fell as soon as we made our pact. I will hold on to that wish for now, husband," she says in a low voice as she directs her gaze towards the winner inside the arena.

"The victor will now choose his mate, as are the customs of our clan. Choose well, Nightbrother Kylen, as this is an opportunity not to be taken lightly." Merrin raises her hand and gestures toward him with a nod. Her eyes travel from him to Isea, who sits comfortably on the other side of the arena, watching the show unfold with uninterested eyes.

"You honor me, Mother, but I have already chosen my desired mate!" he yells in a deep voice, the sentence making her lift her eyebrows in surprise.

"I am not one to stand in the way of anyone's desires. Speak, brother, and name your chosen one!"

"Very well...I choose you, Mother Merrin!"

"What? He can do that?" Cal stands up next to Merrin, his expression entirely puzzled.

The entire arena erups into chatter as the Nighbrothers look around, while the Nightsisters glare at the daring man with deep hatred, save for Valeria, who only glances at him with indifference.

"You cannot choose me, Nightbrother Kylen. I am your leader, and I have already been bonded with another man! Choose someone else!" Her voice resounds into the arena with authority, her tone angry.

"But he is not worthy of you, Mother! You defile our sacred ways only to marry an outsider! He is not a warrior, and he has not faced any of us in combat! The outsider is weak, and I demand to have my right fulfilled as I have earned it!" his tone grows angrier by the second, his words filled with venom toward Cal.

"The only thing you have earned today is your life spared if you cease his nonsense!" Isea declares from the side.

"Silence, Nightsister! You are the sole reason this outsider sits where a Nightbrother should stand! I challenge the outsider to a duel, for his place alongside our Mother!"

"He is not an outsider, or have you been absent from this ceremony all along? If I were you, I would choose my next words carefully..." Kora jumps from her seat, her lightbow already tight in her hand.

"Stand down, all of you!" Merrin interrupts the incoming fight with her imposing voice, the sound echoing inside the whole area and sending chills down everyone's spines. Her eyes glow a bright green, and she glares furiously at the Nightbrother in front of her.

Before she can speak again, she feels a soft hand on her shoulder, and she turns quickly to spot Cal with a definitive expression on his face. Her gaze softens, and she looks at him with a conflicted expression, unsure of what he wants to do next.

"I'll fight him." Cal gives her a reassuring nod and a gentle squeeze on his shoulder.

"But you cannot! The duel has already ended. Do not do this."

"Do you trust me?" he asks in a sincere voice while Merrin already ponders her answer. She releases a sigh as her eyes set on the ground beneath her feet.

"I trust you will not make a fool of yourself in that arena, husband. Be careful, he is not an enemy to be trifled with. Grab a weapon, and Orin will guide you there." She declares in a resigned voice.

"I don't need a weapon. The Force is my ally."

"Gods help us all," Merrin declares with a disapproving shake of her head as she watches Cal leave her side.

Loud chatter and shocked voices surround the entire arena as he is guided by Orin towards its center. Merrin watches the spectacle unfold with worried eyes for her seat, still not sure how this battle will proceed. Something deep inside her tells her not to worry, to calm down as her hearts nearly burst inside her chest.

Cal is facing Kylen now, completely unarmed. She agrees with herself that his courage is indeed admirable, but she also condemns him for his stupidity. Kylen is an excellent warrior, and Cal is a peaceful monk. She prays silently in her mind to her gods for Cal to unveil even more surprises as the horn blows loudly and the duel begins.

The Nightbrother begins to circle her husband like a predator usually does before it strikes. Cal stands in his spot, his head moving gently from one side to the other in the rhythm of Kylen's footsteps. He puts his arms behind him and straightens his back.

Kylen is now behind him, his right hand gripping the metal club with such strength that when he strikes, the air around it resonates inside the whole arena. Cal is light on his feet, and he dodges the incredible, powerful blow by an inch, rotating his body so that now he is facing his opponent.

Merrin watches his expression, a mix of calmness and regret etched on his features. Cal doesn't want this, that she already knows, and for once, she tends to agree with him. So much death and destruction plagues Dathomir, and these ancient customs do nothing but strengthen the circle of violence surrounding the whole planet.

Kylen's second, even more powerful blow once again meets the sandy ground on the arena as Cal slides to the side, his demeanor surprisingly calm. It seems the monks had not been entirely useless, Merrin ponders as Cal dodges yet another harsh blow, this one passing right above his head.

"Fight me, coward!" the erratic swings of the furious Nightbrother, highlighting his rage.

"We don't have to fight! I'm not your enemy!" Cal simply dodges another blow, though his feet begin to stumble as the metal weapon grazes his left arm.

A strangled shout emerges from his lips, and Merrin leans closer to spot his expression, the coolness now replaced by a more alert and fearful state. It is time to end this before Kylen seriously injures him, and Merrin stands on her feet, ready to cancel the duel and command Kora to imprison the Nightbrother for his insolence.

Before she can speak, Cal leans backwards as he doges another incoming blow and does something that takes everyone inside the arena by surprise. The gesture is so quick that she barely has time to register what has happened as Kylen flies across the arena and hits his back on the wooden fence, hard. He drops his weapon from his hand as he falls face first into dirt.

With his hands stretched in front of him and his ragged breath echoing in the arena, Cal ends the duel faster than anticipated. The Nightbrother growls on the ground as he tries to stand, only to find his legs betraying him as he slumps to the floor and stays there.

The arena becomes dead silent as Cal eventually retracts his hands and straightens his posture, his fingers shaking slightly while he takes another deep breath. The crowd instantly erupts into cheers and applause, recognizing Cal's decisive victory.

Chapter Text

Pride has never been a sentiment encouraged by the monks or the Jedi. Life at the monastery was simple, and Cal was always taught to cherish all living things, to do no harm, and to avoid conflict above all.

And yet, conflict was the one thing he always struggled with, even as a child, as there had been disputes even inside the monastery. Such things were eventually unavoidable, despite their peaceful nature, but the conclusion was always the same: each side thought they were in the right.

But now, standing here after besting what could only be described as a fearless warrior, he can't help but feel a bit of pride creep under his skin, despite regretting even having to resort to self-defense. He didn't know at the time how far he had pushed the man until he heard the sickening breaking of bones as the Nightbrother fell to the ground. He had an approximate sense of the arena's size, but he never expected it to be so large.

Orin grabs him by his right hand and raises it as the crowd cheers, no doubt satisfied with his brief display of violence. The night continues as he is led back inside the main temple with Merrin and all the other guests. The festivities were still in full session, with Cal's unexpected victory erupting into pure chaos as the guests were all dancing and getting extremely drunk.

Merrin is unusually silent next to him as they both sit at the table again, listening to Fey's gossip. He takes a sip of that horrendously strong wine again, the alcohol all but burning down his neck as he clears his throat, wondering what exactly she's thinking about right now.

"Did your friend teach you those moves?" she speaks before he gets a chance, a great hint of curiosity peeking under her usual formal tone.

"Who? Jaro Tapal?" he replies quickly, relieved to finally hear her voice again.

"You said your friend was a great Jedi general; was he the one who taught you how to use the Force?"

"Yes. Even though the council refused to train me as a Jedi, he still went out of his way to reach me through the ways of the Force, to defend myself if something happened."

"Was he not afraid that this council might discover him?"

"I don't think so, or at the very least, he never told me. He instructed the monks to resume my training while he was gone."

"I have never seen the Force used in such a manner," Merrin's voice sounds deeply intrigued, and he takes another sip of wine, the taste growing somewhat on him.

"All I did was push him on the other side of the arena. I didn't even touch him."

"And yet, Kylen is a warrior who has yet to be bested in battle. Perhaps the way you shape and control the Force around you is not so different from ours."

"Tell me more about your clan," Cal leans closer until he can feel Merrin's warm breath on his skin.

"Ever since the beginning of our existence, the witches of Dathomir have always drawn their powers from the living Force. Not long after, we began developing spells and chants that used to amplify our powers beyond what seemed normal. Then our clans began waging wars among themselves, and what was left is what remains even to this day."

"Were your clans always apart?" Cal asks in a sincere voice, drawing a heavy sigh from Merrin.

"I do not know the entire tale, but it is believed that at some point in time all the clans lived as one. No borders, no conflict, no death...but that is ancient history, and there is much still missing from our libraries."

A deep, longing murmur emerges from his lips, reminding him of the gigantic library above his cell. Before he can raise the matter, a pair of strong hands land on his shoulders, followed by a loud laugh.

"There you are, boy! Come, the Nightbrothers wish to honor you for your swift victory!" Orin's speech is slurred, most likely intoxicated by alcohol.

Cal releases a forced laugh as he is hauled to his feet before he can reply or protest. The Nightbrothers will have it no other way, so he lets himself be guided to their table. As soon as he is planted in his seat, a large cup is placed in his hand. He can feel the Nightbrothers eyeing him intensely, and he takes a deep breath as he brings the cup to his lips and downs the strong liquid with another rapid move. He can feel his insides burning hot, though not as badly as the last time he did it. All of them begin to laugh and cheer, all voicing their slurred speeches one by one.

"I told you the boy is tough! See how he drinks our wine without fear?" Orin praises him from the side.

"That still doesn't make it taste better though," Cal rasps through ragged breaths, the burning in his throat traveling down his stomach.

"It is an acquired taste, my boy! But fear not, we still have one more barrel left!" Orin laughs loudly again, grabbing Cal by the hand and trying to pour more wine into his cup.

"Uhh, I think I had my fair share of this for a lifetime. No thanks!" Cal tries to convince Orin, who simply removes his hand from the top of the cup and fills it with more wine.

"There is only one great joining, Cal. This is the opportunity of a lifetime to do whatever you want!"

Cal sits and thinks for a moment. The festivities had indeed been great so far, and it would be incredibly rude of him to refuse the hospitality of these people who gathered here, especially for him. Still, despite their cheerful nature, Cal reminds himself that he is still a prisoner. Free from bonds but still tied to a stranger, even if he agreed to do so. So he bitterly takes another sip, hoping to dampen the sudden helpless feeling crawling under his skin. And then he takes another, and another, until his tongue feels numb and his legs wobble.

It doesn't take long until his senses dull completely as an incredibly drunk and cheery mood washes over him, and he has no idea where he is.

Merrin's eyes begin to tire as the party is all but over. Only she, Kora, and Isea remain in the grand hall alongside a few passed out Nightbrothers, sleeping comfortably with their heads on the table.

Orin has already taken Cal towards her chambers to prepare him for their night together. She saw him earlier, barely stumbling to get on his feet with a cheerful grin on his face as Orin and another Nightbrother carried him out the door. Her hearts begin to beat faster, wondering how she might proceed with Cal once she returns to her chambers. She felt the hesitation in his tone after he agreed to their union, pressured by her impossible choice. Still, the pact was done, and she will have to perform her duties as will he.

The strong sensation of doubt begins to cloud her mind as she rises from her seat. Isea gives her a daring look, while Kora remains by her side while she begins to walk towards her chambers. Merrin puts on a determined face as the path forward is set clear, and before she can think more, she is already in front of the door.

"Have fun, Mother. May the gods bless you with many children," Kora gives her a cheeky grin as she departs, leaving her alone.

She takes a deep breath and pushes through the door, her thoughts running wild. The room is dimly lit by a plethora of candles, giving the atmosphere a romantic mood. Cal is on the other side of the room, laying in her bed on his side, with his back towards her. Merrin wonders if he feels as anxious as her about what comes next. The air inside the room is warm, and she takes another brave step, suddenly stopping in her tracks.

The place is silent as Merrin begins to unfasten the intricate strings on her headpiece. It feels like a tremendous weight is lifted from her shoulders while she discards her ceremonial attire and remains only in her undergarments.

With careful steps, she reaches the bed. Cal still lays on his side, and she takes a deep breath as she places herself on the edge of the mattress, careful not to disturb him. He doesn't react, his steady breath echoing inside the room. Merrin places a gentle hand on his shoulder, hoping to capture his attention, but the gesture provokes no response, and she squeezes his shoulder again.

"Cal... It is time for us to perform our duty. I do not wish to hurry you, but it is vital that it happens tonight."

A weak murmur can be heard from under his breath, and she leans closer to hear what he has to say. When he fails to respond, she sighs again as she drags his shoulder towards her, forcing him to lay on his back. Gentle snores escape his lips, his eyes closed tight, while his body remains limp on the bed. Another quiet murmur materializes under his breath, though the words are ineligible.

Merrin can't help but smile at the image in front of her. Cal looks so peaceful sleeping, his expression shifting softly while he dreams. She places a soft hand at the side of his face and gives him another weak smile, unwilling to wake him up.

Even if he does wake up, Merrin realizes Cal is far too drunk for her to initiate anything with him. The Nightsisters will have to wait a bit longer for their heirs. She lets go of him as she climbs to her feet and looks at him again. He's still dressed in that exquisite tunic, the dark red color complementing his light features wonderfully. His chest falls and rises in a steady rhythm while a peaceful expression resides on his face.

Merrin gestures a quick nod to herself as she rises from the bed and leaves the room in silence. She locks the door behind her in case some curious eyes might dare peek inside, and she begins to wander the temple by herself. The air inside is cold and refreshing as her feet guide her to the lower regions, near the library. A quiet whisper catches her attention, the dim light under Valeria's door indicating she's awake.

The young witch smiles again, imagining the incredible bond Valeria has formed with Lorys. Even though they seem so different from each other, the love they shared with one another was relentless. The whispers intensify, and Merrin hides behind a stone pillar, hoping to catch a glimpse of the oh-so-serious Valeria in a lighter mood.

The door opens, and Merrin stays in her spot, trying to hear their conversation. What emerges from behind the door leaves her a bit surprised. Valeria whispers intensely to one of the Nightbrothers, and he nods swiftly, leaving as soon as the conversation is done.

What are you scheming, Valeria? Merrin focuses her eyes and ponders her next move. If she reveals her location, Valeria might abandon her plans out of fear of being discovered.

The doors close behind the Nightsister while she returns to her chambers. An uncomfortable silence fills the air around Merrin. Being the leader of this clan meant keeping peace among her sisters, no matter the cost.

Valeria had always been outspoken about her grievances, and she always made sure to lend her ear and resolve whatever the problem was. Perhaps it was only a minor matter, something unworthy of her attention. She takes a deep breath while she tries to put her thoughts behind her and continue her journey. It does not take long for her to arrive at their magnificent library.

Tonight was as good as ever for her to practice her magick and, who knows, even learn some new spells. Cal had opened her eyes back at the arena, and she wanted to learn more, to better herself, and perhaps even assimilate some of his ways.

As the hours pass, she can only feel her connection to the Force stronger than ever. The cold, damp air inside the library can only mean one thing: morning is here, and she needs to return to her chambers as soon as possible. Empty corridors greet her, with her sisters sleeping soundly inside their rooms while she rushes to reach her own before the first bell rings and wakes everyone up. With a rapid motion, she unlocks the door and dashes inside, hoping nobody saw her outside.

Her dear husband is still snoring gently on her bed, blissfully unaware. She approaches the bed with quiet footsteps and places herself on it, close to him. Her presence seems to alert the sleeping man, who slowly opens his eyes. His hands begin to wander on the bed, on his clothes, feeling everything around him until they reach her fingers. He retracts them instantly as soon as he feels her warmth, and he stands up panicked.

"Where am I?" Cal says in a stressed voice. He brings a weak hand to his head and begins to feel his face, occasionally rubbing his temple gently.

"You are inside my chambers, Cal," she replies in a calm voice.

"Merrin? Wait! Did we-" another stressed grimace flashes on his face, followed by genuine confusion. "I don't remember anything."

"We did not, husband. You fell drunk last night and slept until morning."

"My head hurts. So... we did nothing last night? This is bad! If the Nightsisters find out we-"

"They will not. As far as we are concerned, we both did our duties, and we fulfilled them tremendously," she leans forward and places a comforting hand on his own.

He does not flinch or refuse her touch, his mind obviously deep in thought. It was without question that Cal still felt a sliver of distrust towards her clan, though if he truly feared her, she could not say.

"Come, I will have one of my sisters prepare you a lighter meal to ease your headache."

Cal is dead silent, his shoulders stiff while he faces down. Merrin isn't sure, but she can spot the uncomfortable look on his face, barely disguised by a false smile, as an unexpected shiver travels through his whole body. "I'm not hungry. If it's okay, I want to go back to the village."

Compared to how he behaved last night, he seems like a completely different person, more in line with the scared monk who was brought days ago to Dathomir.

"Leaving so soon? I assumed you wanted to stay longer. You are after all permitted to do so today," she tries to lift his morale.

Cal simply shakes his head, stretching his arm and legs while he rises from the bed. He sits on the edge of the mattress, his face pale, while his mouth forms a straight line.

"As you wish. Wait here until I fetch Orin. He will guide you safely back to your home," she surprises even herself with the disappointment in her voice.

With Cal still inside the room, she orders one of the Nightsisters to fetch Orin. Kora gives her a sly smile as she walks by, busy with more important matters. Merrin replies with a fake grin and a nod of her head, her mind still fixed on the young monk. She felt him so tense, nervous even as she left the room. If actions speak, then this was the right time to act and assure him she meant him no harm.

"Mother Merrin! I wish to speak with you at once!" Fey's voice holds a hint of urgency behind it.

"What is it? Did something happen?"

"I do not wish to alarm you, Mother, but our scouts have located another imperial patrol moving south towards the Howling Crag. These men wear the same black armor as the ones that visited us not long ago. How do we proceed?"

"We will lay low and not engage for the time being. It seems these imperial soldiers are still looking for their escaped prisoner," she begins to walk ahead, with Fey following her closely behind. "The other clans have no knowledge of him being here, so the soldiers will gain nothing. All he have to do is wait until they tire of us and leave for good."

"But what if they refuse to leave? Then what?"

"Then we will have no other option but to retaliate," she says, placing a steady hand on Fey's shoulder. "For now, let us keep an optimistic mind and refrain from waging battles. Have I made myself understood?"

"Yes, Mother, I will inform our men to keep a safe distance."

Merrin gestures with an approving nod, standing in front of the holomap. Her eyes trail over to the continuously moving dot, signaling the presence of the Empire. It seems these imperials are not so easy to fool, and she begins to think of the day when that strange woman arrived. Her golden eyes have been permanently ingrained into Merrin's mind, making her wonder about her true nature.

There was a wild beast hiding beneath that wicked smile, a monster waiting to strike at the first sign of weakness. Merrin sighs loudly. When she was younger, all she wanted was to avenge her sisters and to march into battle without fear. But as her clan began to recover and grow, she put her desires aside and started thinking hard about the future. With Cal by her side, the rebuilding of her clan was her number one priority, and no Empire or twisted imperial agent would stand in her way.

Cal sits at the edge of his bed, his head still hurting badly. A sweet tea's smell lingers in the air as Orin places the beverage next to him and takes a seat. The air feels dry and hot, and Cal swallows another lump in his throat, unsure what to say.

"Well? How was it?" Orin asks far too curiously for his own liking.

"It was...fine," his heart begins to beat faster, the burden of his lie already making his ears ring. He only hopes his expression is not betraying him while he tries to keep his cool.

"Only fine? Cal, this is the Mother of our clan we speak of. Do not be embarrassed to confess your true thoughts."

"I'm serious. We did what we had to do, and that's it. Nothing special," Cal lies again, this time in a more calm voice. Orin simply scoffs and keeps quiet. Cal can feel the burning stare of the older Nightbrother on him, and he clears his throat, hoping to divert the subject elsewhere.

"Is there anything to eat? I'm starving," he lies through his teeth again, despite the tight knot in his stomach, which prevents him from even breathing properly.

"You did not mate with her last night..." Orin's voice sounds so frustrated and angry that it makes him feel the sting of guilt flash inside his body.

"No! I promise, I did! Why would I lie?" he tries to mend the conversation, his body now incredibly tense, while he begins to fidget with the hem of his tunic, his cheeks slowly beginning to burn.

"Do you take me for a fool, Cal Kestis? I may be kind to you, but do not confuse my generosity with stupidity. I do not have to look far to see that you are lying as we speak."

"How can you tell?" Cal lets go of his façade, his shoulder slumping while he exhales deeply, a small look of worry flaring on his face. He tries to find excuses for himself, only to realize there is no excuse. If the Nightsisters find out, he will surely be punished, or worse, for his transgression.

"A man can always tell, and even if you cannot see it, the shame and guilt are riddled all over your face," Orin sighs, his tone etched with disappointment. "I failed to make you desirable in front of her, and now we will both pay the price," the gravity in his voice making the statement sound far too serious.

"You mean they're gonna kill us just for this?" Cal becomes more agitated with each word, already jumping on his feet. "I have to get out of here! I knew this was a mistake!"

"I do not know, but let us pray that this Mother will be more merciful than the last..." his voice trails off, filling the air inside the room with a sense of despair.

The slow but sure beginning of a panic attack begins to crawl inside Cal's chest, berating himself for being so naïve. Merrin had assured him that she didn't wish to hurt him, yet now all he could imagine was his life slipping away. So many things remain unsaid, so many issues yet to be resolved...

The sound of loud laughter makes his fidgeting stop. His whole body shakes lightly while Orin grows closer and places a heavy hand on his shoulder. He continues to laugh, the sound making him feel more anxious and even more confused. "You feel asleep drunk, did you not?"

"Well yeah, but-"

"Oh, my boy, if only you could see the look on your face right now. It is truly priceless..." his voice trails off amusingly as another small laugh escapes his lips.

"What?" Cal is now completely confused, freezing next to Orin as he tries to make sense of his sudden cheerful attitude.

"Did you think you were the first one to do so? Though I have to say, for an outsider, you held your own quite remarkably last night. Well done!"

"So you're not mad? What about Merrin? I thought she was gonna kill us!"

"Not a chance, Cal! Though I'm surprised she has yet to request your presence by her side again."

"You knew... did she tell you about last night?"

"No, but I saw it on your face the moment you arrived. But do not fret, you will have other opportunities to give her as many children as she desires and even more chances to lay with her as many times as you wish. But do not repeat that last sentence, boy, or she will truly have my head for that one!" Orin says with a snicker, already letting go of Cal's shoulder as his footsteps guide him towards the kitchen.

"Okay, so she's not as scary as I thought. What else? What am I supposed to do here while I wait?" Cal grows restless in his spot.

"Anything you want. The village is yours to explore, and if you want to sleep all day, you can do just that. Nobody will bother you, and you will have fresh food and wine delivered to your home every day."

Cal's nose scrunches as a feeling of nausea invades his body at the mere mention of that wine. The simple memory of it burning his insides is enough to ward him off that dangerous liquid for the remainder of his life.

"No thanks, I'd rather drink tea."

"Suit yourself, Cal. If you need anything, you know where to find me," Orin departs the room, leaving Cal once again alone to wallow in his thoughts.

The fear inside his body is all but gone as he finally dares to step outside after a few moment of self-refection. The air feels warm, with the sun casting its rays on his skin, and he traces a gentle finger on his face. The clay is still somewhat present on his skin, marking him as a new member of this clan. Cal wonders how many clans are left on this world after that general conducted his massacre. Merrin mentioned something about them fighting among themselves, which meant there were probably not many left. Still, it was fascinating to imagine all the clans living as one, strengthening their power instead of dividing it.

He traces his steps, counting them until he reaches a stone well. Fifty steps, he takes a mental note as he continues to explore. The stone feels rough under his feet, and he reaches a tall wooden fence. He traces his finger across the wood, feeling its chips and dust under his nails. This is as far as the village stretches on this side, and he turns, facing another way as he begins to explore again. The sound of chatter and low voices makes him turn, realizing a group of Nightbrothers are standing in front of him, engaged in labor.

"Step aside, stranger, before you injure yourself!" one of them commands in a deep voice, pushing Cal aside with his hand as he passes by him.

"I can handle myself; don't worry about me," Cal replies in a sharp tone. The Nightbrother clearly has a disliking for him, and Cal softens his tone as he begins to speak again, this time friendlier. "I don't wanna cause trouble. I'm just getting familiar with the territory if I'm going to be here for a while," he gestures with his hands vaguely around him.

"Do not get too comfortable inside our village, stranger. Once the Mother comes to her senses, she will cast you out and find a more suitable mate," the Nightbrother replies in a bitter tone. "Preferably one that can directly look her in the eyes."

If there was one thing the monks taught him well, it was to never take insults personally. The galaxy was plagued by good and bad people, with most of the bad ones making their unsolicited opinions loudly heard. And yet, there was a small tinge of disappointment and resentment creeping underneath, begging him to retaliate.

"How's Kylen?" he asks in a neutral voice, a false smile appearing on his lips.

The silence he was met with could only confirm he indeed hit a nerve, with the Nightbrother scoffing loudly under his breath while remaining silent. Cal simply nods and excuses himself, the corner of his mouth dropping as soon as he turns and leaves.

People will always try to find your weakness and exploit it. You must not allow their words to influence what you already know about yourself, Cal. Only then will you be able to rise above them. Master Tapal's words linger inside his head while he continues to walk with his hands clenched into soft fists.

His journey eventually leads him to a more secluded part of the village, the foliage and dirt under his boots indicating he is bordering the end of the village. He finds a quiet place somewhere under a large tree and places himself on the ground, with his head resting lightly on top of his knees. His thoughts consume him for hours until a stranger's voice brings him back to reality.

"What troubles you, my friend?"

"None of the Nightbrothers like or approve that I'm here," Cal sighs heavily, reconsidering if he should speak more. "They think I stole their right to be with the Mother, even though I'm the one who had no other choice," he continues in a bitter voice.

"Mind if I take a seat?" the stranger grows closer until he is near him.

"Not at all," Cal waves his hand, inviting the stranger to take place next to him.

"Does the Nydak concern itself with the opinion of the Bane-back?" he asks suddenly. "You did not steal anything that was theirs to take in the first place. The Mother always chooses her mate on her own terms, and it would be wise for them to remember that."

A weak smile flashes on Cal's lips, and he turns his head to face the stranger, intrigued by his unexpected kindness. "You seem different from the rest. What's your name?"

"I am Ayen. I already know who you are, Cal Kestis. I was at the ceremony when you drank from the cup."

"It's nice to meet you, Ayen. It's also good to have someone to finally talk to, besides Orin." Cal breathes a sigh of relief, wondering where this Nightbrother has been hiding all along.

"Ah, that old fool. He means well, but he can be a bit...traditional at times."

"Maybe that's not so bad. Even the monks at my monastery held dear to tradition, preserving the past for future generations," Cal stops and reflects on his legacy for a moment.

With everything that has happened in the past few days, he barely had time to think about his old friends. And now he finds himself in a new place, riddled with traditions and customs that are all foreign to him. If the monks were alive, they would surely urge him to continue his work and protect the sacred Jedi text with his life, instead of wasting precious time.

An impossible task given his current status, but maybe in time he will be allowed to return to Jedha and resume his duty. Someone is approaching them from behind, their quiet feet making him straighten his back as he raises himself and waits.

"The Mother has requested your presence," Isea speaks, surprising him with her unannounced presence.

Cal swallows a dry lump in his throat, wondering what could possibly be so urgent as to send one of the Nightsisters to fetch him at once. He nods and begins to follow Isea without any protest until a numb feeling of anxiety washes over him, making his ears ring. Whatever it is, it can't be good.

Chapter Text

Dusty books and ancient scrolls surround Merrin once again. She retreated inside the gigantic library as soon as Fey warned her about the incoming danger. The plan was to seek out a spell powerful enough to ward off the imperial threat, and while she found many, none held exactly what she was looking for. And now, she finds herself perusing a rather large holobook containing a multitude of fictional stories gathered from all around the galaxy.

It was not that the matter of the Empire's threat was forgotten; she just simply could not help herself after reading the first few sentences. The romantic story was so captivating, and the more she read, the more she found herself drawn to the plot. Only when she heard the doors open did she realize that she was already halfway through the damned book.

The sound of heavy footsteps doesn't bother her, as surely Valeria or Lorys probably wants something from her, so she keeps her nose buried deep in her story, unfazed.

"You wanted to speak with me?"

The sound of Cal's voice startles her, and she lifts her head to look at him with a bewildered look on her face. She places the holobook rapidly on the table and stands up, agitated.

"I did not request your presence, husband. Who dared to bring you here without my permission?"

"Uh, Isea told me you wanted to tell me something. She came all the way to the Nightbrother village and dragged me here. You didn't ask for me?"

"That girl will be the death of me..." Merrin sighs deeply. She brings her left hand to her head and begins to rub her temple gently, trying to ease her headache. It's no secret that deep down, Merrin has a soft spot for Isea, but to do this now, when the threat of the Empire grows larger every day, makes Merrin feel a tinge of resentment towards her.

"No, I did not. If you may, I wish to be left alone. I have more urgent matters to attend to, and whatever Isea wants can surely wait."

"What urgent matters? Did something happen?" Cal steps closer with a worried look on his face.

"It is nothing to concern yourself with, Cal. Now, please, I must remain alone," she places herself back on her chair and takes the holobook into her hands. Another desperate sigh leaves her mouth as soon as she opens the object, with Cal's interest now piqued.

"What are you reading?" he asks in a curious voice while he dares to take another step closer to her.

"How did you know I was reading?" Merrin lifts her eyebrow at him and gives him a serious look while tilting her head to the side.

"I know the sound of a holobook like the back of my own hands. We had a massive archive filled with these at the monastery on Jedha. In fact, each monastery held a great collection of holobooks with ancient Jedi history, among other things."

"Interesting. Here on Dathomir, we only have a few. The rest is written on paper with ink, or the information is stored on small data disks."

"The Jedi archive was so big that it stood three stories tall, and it held over a thousand holobooks," Cal's expression resembles a feeling of longing mixed with sadness while he continues to describe his former home. Merrin can't help but feel a tinge of regret inside her heart, knowing he might never return to that archive again.

"It seems we finally share something in common besides the genocide of our people. I am sorry for your monks and that their history will be lost in time."

"It's not lost. As long as I'm alive, there's still hope for it. The archive can be rebuilt," Cal declares hopefully. "Mind if I take a seat?" he reaches out and places his hand on the back of a large wooden chair, waiting for her response.

"Fine. But if you insist on staying, I advise you to do so quietly. I am nearly finished with this holobook," she casts her eyes upon the holographic writing while Cal simply nods and sits peacefully on the chair. Her eyes begin to travel over the text again, remembering where she was so rudely interrupted by Isea's childish games. The princess was about to declare her true love for her beloved and-

"You didn't tell me what you're reading," Cal interrupts her thoughts again in a shy voice.

His kind tone almost makes her regret growling at him in contempt, and she feels her cheeks burn in shame upon realizing why he asked in the first place. Cal was very smart—that one she picked up from their first conversation—but there was also this profound innocence radiating from him, a childlike enthusiasm every time he discovered something new.

"It is a story about a Twi'lek peasant turned princess. I was just about to read her declaration of love toward her soon-to-be husband before you interrupted me."

"Oh, I'm sorry. Wait... You're reading romantic stories? I thought you were out here with very important matters!" Cal gives her a raised eyebrow and a side smirk while she scoffs loudly, her breath catching in her throat while she answers.

"Well, yes, but..."

"It's okay, I'm not judging you or anything," Cal raises his hands in front of him. "I'm just surprised, that's all."

"Hmm, it seems you are not the only one full of surprises, Cal Kestis," a weak smirk appears on her lips, and she lowers her eyes again, her mind still on him.

There is a sincere smile etched on his face as well, as he lowers his head but keeps quiet. Merrin finds herself in a strange position, enjoying the company of this young man, who, a few days ago, was a complete stranger. And as much as she tries to concentrate on the writing before her eyes, she can't help but feel drawn to him again as she raises her head and asks suddenly.

"Would you like me to read some of it to you?"

"Yes, I would like that very much," Cal nods while the words leave his mouth a bit too fast, his eyes wide as a loud excitement hides under his calm tone.

"Alright, but promise me you will not laugh or I will stop, and I will never read anything to you ever again," Merrin warns in a serious tone, and for once she is grateful he cannot see her now bright pink cheeks and the bead of sweat traveling from her temple down the side of her face.

"I promise," Cal holds his right hand in the air and lowers it while he leans closer with his elbows on the table in front of them.

She takes a deep breath and exhales, mentally preparing herself for her upcoming reading session. Never in her entire life did she ever imagine having to read out loud such a story, and to her husband of all people.

Merrin would rather face the entire imperial army in battle than sit here and hear the sound of her own voice reciting such provocative sentences. However, she was the one who offered herself to do so in the first place, even if now, she clearly regretted her actions.

"Taking a shallow, deep breath, the princess Sylla turned to face Milo, her future husband, with a shimmer in her deep, blue eyes. Her vibrant green lekku, adorned with golden jewelry, swayed as she moved closer and placed a tender hand on his rugged chest. His warm, brown eyes were captured by her beauty, rendering him speechless while their eyes met, the attraction between them pulsating in the air.

-A thousand moons and stars in the night sky cannot begin to describe my love for you, Milo. I have awaited a lifetime, and I will await one more if it means I get to spend eternity by your side. The love I carry for you cannot be expressed through mere actions, but if you may, I will seal our future with a kiss.

The young man's eyes glistened with desire while he slid a delicate finger down her velvety smooth skin and captured her lips before she finished her words."

"Was she always a princess?" Cal interrupts her session. Merrin didn't mind, as the sound of her voice does indeed seem strange to her, and she ponders for a bit before giving him her answer.

"No. She was a poor peasant, forced to do field labor. The prince found her in a forest on Ryloth, injured and scared, and he fell in love instantly with her."

Cal fidgets with his fingers but does not answer, and Merrin wonders what thoughts swirl inside his mind. He gestures with another nod and tells her to continue her story.

"-I love you, Sylla, more than anything in this galaxy and beyond. Do not fear, as by this time tomorrow we will be joined in sacred marriage.

Milo embraced the princess with his strong arms, the starry night sky illuminating above them. She allowed herself to linger in his embrace as she buried her head deeper into his chest, the two lovers sharing one last night as two separate beings before being united as one."

"End of chapter," Merrin stops, her eyes still fixed on the holobook, while a longing sigh almost escapes her lips. Almost, and she stops, realizing Cal is listening intently to her every word.

The look on Cal's face while Merrin pries her eyes from the story and looks at him can be described with only one word: contemplation. He keeps his mouth shut, his hands on top of each other, and his head tilted to the side. His eyes remain fixed somewhere on the table, while no sound comes from him.

"What bothers your mind, Cal?" Merrin reaches out a firm hand, but stops before her fingers reach him.

"I was thinking about your story. You said she was a peasant before she met him. Did she have a choice, or did this prince simply assume she wanted to marry him?"

"It was love at first sight..." Merrin replies in a small voice, a faint smirk appearing on her lips and disappearing shortly after. She clears her voice suddenly and straightens her back. "If you believe in these sorts of things," she says confidently in a falsely detached voice.

"Do you?"

A question worth a thousand words, Merrin ponders while she fails to respond. She closes the book with a loud thud and places it on the table swiftly. Only one word leaves her mouth, short and precise, as she stands up.

"No."

Her answer provokes a strange response from Cal, whose expression changes from contemplation to something resembling disappointment. He follows her, rising from his seat while he places his hands securely by his side and waits for her next move.

"The library is yours to peruse if you wish for the rest of the day. I understand your gift of dwelling into the past might help you uncover some secrets hidden from our sight. When you are finished, call for Isea. She will guide you safely back to the village," she walks past him with determined steps, and she stops once she hears the sound of his voice again.

"Merrin?" his voice sounds gentle, like soothing music to her ears.

"Yes, husband?" she remains with her back turned, despite every fiber in her body urging her to turn and look at him.

"Thank you. You honestly have no idea what this means to me."

I do, she thinks, but doesn't reply as she begins to walk again until the doors close behind her, leaving him alone inside the gigantic library.

To say that Cal was overly excited to be left alone in such a place was a massive understatement. Using the Force to approximate the actual size of the place only makes it even more fascinating. The library is huge, with books, scrolls, datadisks, and even some holobooks, making it one of the biggest archives he ever had the honor to visit, beside the one from Jedha.

It took hours, but his determination to touch and feel every object inside the room began to overwhelm him, and only then did he realize he was only on the ground floor. There were even more on the second and third levels, and Cal slumps on one of the wooden chairs scattered inside while he takes a deep breath.

There are so many memories and so many echoes ready to be seen before he is eventually forced to leave this wonderful place and return to his new home. Cal's mood changes completely upon recalling his short argument with the Nightbrothers, even though deep down he doesn't blame them.

He was, after all, still a stranger to them, and he knew none of them would welcome him with open arms. But it still hurt to be cast aside and hated for simply existing and, on top of all, being brought here pretty much against his own will. His only consolation was this amazing library and, to some extent, his new wife.

Cal feels strange all of a sudden. Even thinking about the words makes him question his entire existence, and he thinks again about his old life before the purge. A simple life at the monastery was all he ever needed, but being here right now, he had to admit to himself that things were truly not so bad.

There are far worse fates than these, he thinks again while a gentle smile settles on his lips. He thinks about Merrin too, wondering what she actually looks like. The image of the Nightsisters in that distant echo flashes inside his mind, but he can barely remember their faces. He does remember one that stood out among the rest, though, with her long silver hair and red robes complementing her figure gracefully.

Before he can dwell inside the memory further, the sound of a voice breaks his thoughts, and he stands up abruptly, unsure where the sound came from.

"What are you still doing here?!" her tone is sharp and condescending, the voice without question belonging to Valeria.

"Merrin allowed me to stay here for the rest of the day. To relax," Cal remains calm despite the anger pulsating through her words.

"To relax?" she enunciates her words in a high voice, deeply offended. "Surely you must be joking! What could you possibly find yourself doing in such a place as this?"

Cal swallows an uncomfortable lump in his throat but refrains from answering. It seems the Mother kept his psychometry a secret from the rest of the Nightsisters, though for what reason he doesn't know yet. But whatever justification she had, it must have been good enough, and he simply shrugs at Valeria with a sly smile on his face.

"I thought I could catch up on some late night reading."

"You insolent fool!" she steps closer, her voice filled with venom. "You may have gained the Mother's favor, but do not consider for one second that I approve of your presence here! You do not belong here, and hear me when I say that you never will..."

"If I don't belong here, then why did you kidnap me? It's not like I have a choice but to be here!"

"A small mishap from a foolish girl who still believes in children's stories. Isea was the one who brought you here, but mark my words, outsider, I will be the one to cast you out!" Valeria storms out of the library, slamming the door behind her with a frustrated growl and leaving Cal to think about her words.

Cal sits down as he considers her words carefully. He doesn't want to have enemies, but given her complete hatred for him, it seems almost impossible. Another one that hates me, Cal sighs, adding her name to his ever growing list of potential enemies. His mind races, trying to find a peaceful solution to this incoming conflict, but none come to mind, and he sinks further with his head now on the table as a feeling of despair washes all over him.

Chapter Text

Seven days had passed since the incident in the library, yet Merrin's mind refuses to focus on something else. She had arranged for Cal to be sent back to the Nightbrother village that night, the tired look on his face all but suggesting he had a wonderful time exploring their library. Truth be told, seven days felt like an eternity, and she really wanted to summon him again, but the threat of the Empire looming over Dathomir kept her busy, studying their soldiers and their routes.

A gentle smile crosses her features, and she straightens her back while returning to a more serious tone once Valeria and Kora enter the main hall. Valeria casts a strange glance towards her while Kora joins her side, deep in thought.

"Mother Merrin, I have an important issue to discuss with you!"

"What is it, Valeria? What could possibly be so important that you summon me so early in the morning?" she yawns faintly while she stretches her arm and gives Kora a cheeky wink. The Nightsister smiles back but straightens her face as soon as Valeria scoffs louder.

"This is no joke, Mother! Time is running out, and our clan grows restless to hear some good news. Tell me, Mother, are you with child?"

Merrin's eyes widen at Valeria's daring question, her mouth set into a fine line while her ears ring with shame. Nobody but her and Cal know what happened that night, and with the Empire drawing closer to Dathomir, her mind has been in other, more important places.

"I do not think so. I have yet to experience any symptoms, as it has only been a few days. Perhaps we should wait a bit longer, until I am certain," she lies through her teeth, the words strange as they roll off her tongue. A bead of sweat discreetly travels down the side of her face, and she wipes it quickly with her finger.

"I may not agree with that Jedi being here, but at the very least he will provide our clan with many Force-sensitives, as he should," Valeria's tone sounds condescending, and she releases a quick ironic laugh.

"He is not a Jedi; he is part of our clan now. It would be wise for you to remember this in my presence," Merrin's expression goes sour, her eyes piercing into Valeria's with deep authority.

The Nightsister glares back with distaste but does not reply, her face holding a great deal of contempt. She gives a short and precise nod and bows while she turns and leaves the room in silence. Only Merrin and Kora remain inside, and she releases a short sigh while running a shaky hand through her silver hair.

"Do not let Valeria's words affect you, Mother Merrin. Everyone knows she has been a bitter woman ever since you were named the leader of our clan," Kora gestures with a faint smile.

"What news do you have for me, Kora?" Merrin rubs her left temple with her index finger.

"There have been no sightings of imperial patrols in our territory. It seems the soldiers have abandoned their outposts and are preparing to depart the planet."

"At last, some good news. But we must stay vigilant in case they decide to return. I will place a few protection spells on the borders of our lands to ensure our safety. Do not tell Valeria or anyone else that I am gone."

"Very well, Mother. I wish you a safe journey."

"Thank you, Kora. I will try to return as soon as I can," Merrin departs the room in haste.

Her Nightsister robes flow gently in the wind as she teleports herself near the main temple entrance and scours for any threats. The wildlife on Dathomir was dangerous even to them, and she needed to be careful not to miss any spots. Placing a protection spell on an object was easy, and as soon as she begins her quest, she finds herself reflecting on the past few days and everything that has happened.

Cal was safe, back at the Nightbrother village, no doubt waiting to be summoned again. Valeria's words flash inside her head, and she scoffs but keeps them in mind. As much as she hates to admit it, the other Nightsister was right, and sooner or later, they will have to conceive a child.

Many enchanted objects later, Merrin finds herself near the Nightbrother village. This was the last stop in her quest, and she stops for a moment, unsure if she should continue or not. The Nightbrothers respect and fear her, so the question of her safety is not the problem, but the nerves that are slowly invading her entire body. She has not seen Cal in a week, and if she enters the village, he will be there, waiting for her. Still, the village needs her protection, and she begins to move forward as she takes a deep breath and puts on a brave face.

The village is quiet in the morning, with some of the Nightbrothers still sleeping while others tend to their matters. As soon as she enters, they stop and stare at her. She gestures with her hand for them to carry on, and they comply almost instantly. There is a strange look in some of their eyes, a mix of curiosity and resentment, and she pushes forward until she reaches the end of the village.

No sigh of Orin or her husband, she sighs and begins to chant her spell with a hint of disappointment in her voice. The wooden fence glows bright green as the spell is placed securely, and the village is safe from harm. Merrin's eyes glow as she retracts her hands from the wooden fence, a peculiar image captivating her. Somewhere at the top of a cliff, a familiar red headed figure sits with his back turned, seated next to a large tree.

Before she can think, she teleports herself closer, inspecting his posture. He sits with his legs folded under him, his palms firmly on his thighs, and his eyes closed. He does not move or speak, and she dares to step closer, her feet light under the harsh ground. Cal turns his head to the side as soon as she finishes her step, and he opens his eyes but does not rise from his place. He listens again and tilts his head while a small smile flashes on his lips.

"Merrin."

"How did you know it was me?" she asks curiously while she joins his side, planting herself on the ground next to him awkwardly.

"Your footsteps are very light, like a Loth cat's," he smiles quietly again.

"You are very perceptive, husband. Tell me, what are you doing?" she slides closer to him, intrigued.

"I'm meditating. It helps me focus my mind."

"Interesting... another thing we share in common, as I too enjoy the deep comfort and silence of meditation from time to time."

"I had no idea witches meditate. What else do you do?"

"Well, after we are done with our mediation, we enjoy a simple practice of human sacrifice to strengthen our bond and our magick. You would be surprised at how nourishing blood can be..." she smiles wickedly, watching his expression shift form a smile to one of pure confusion. He furrows his eyebrows and remains silent, unsure whether he should reply while his lips part slightly.

"I only joke, husband!" she lets out an awkward laugh, rubbing the back of her neck. She gives him a small pat on the shoulder, and he replies with a quiet smile while his shoulders loosen.

"And here I thought I was your next meal," Cal's lips turn into a sly smile while he lifts his eyebrows.

"Only if you misbehave..." Merrin's voice is low and flirtatious, and she is now so close to him that their shoulders touch just slightly.

She can feel him tense again as his smile fades, his expression unreadable. Not fear, Merrin thinks, no. Something else, something familiar, like a sensation of small Gora-bats swirling inside her stomach. There is a comfortable silence between them as they sit huddled next to each other, with Cal resuming his morning meditation. She looks around, the beauty of the soon-to-rise sun fascinating her as if she had not seen it many times before.

She spots the clouds parting slowly, the bright red and golden colors blending into the morning sky, creating a visual marvel. She sighs, completely lost in thought, as she begins to fumble with one of her golden bracelets, deep in thought. Her fingers reach out, observing the golden slivers of light between them as she continues to stare, wondering why Cal chose this specific spot to meditate.

As soon as the sun rises, Cal's expression shifts from a neutral one to a calm smile. Merrin watches him carefully, examining his gestures as he basks in the sun's rays, his chest rising and falling gradually, and she immediately realizes why he came here in the first place.

"May I ask you something?" her voice breaks the silence between them, and he keeps his eyes closed while he nods quietly. "Will you describe the Force to me?"

Cal's expression remains stoic, but he opens his eyes and turns his head to face her. He begins to talk but stops as soon as the first word leaves his mouth, and he thinks again before he continues.

"I-uh, I'm not exactly sure how to describe it, but everything around me feels alive. When I reach out, I feel connected to all the living things, as they are to me. "

"And does this not distract you?"

"Not at all. For me, it's what helps me navigate the world easier. What about you, Merrin? How would you describe it?"

Merrin averts her eyes for a moment, planting her stare into the ground as she begins to think. In all her years, nobody has ever asked her such a thing, and she tries to formulate a proper answer.

"My magick feels alive as well, like a beating heart pulsating in my hands. My spells are only meant to concentrate the Force into one specific place, shape it, and give it meaning. Once I release it, it manifests as I command it."

"Is that why you're here? To place spells?" Cal asks with curiosity.

"I have placed protection spells all over the valley. This was my final stop in my task."

"Oh. I thought-" Cal stops and swallows a lump in his throat. "Never mind."

Merrin can spot the hint of disappointment on his face, and before she can think, she is already on her feet, urging him to follow her. He complies in confusion, unsure where to stand, as she grabs his hands and pulls him closer. "Come with me."

"Wait, where are you taking me?" Cal replies in a confused voice.

"You will teach me some of your ways, Cal," she declares in a casual voice, all while guiding him to a more open space.

"What, now?"

"Yes, now. Teach me how to draw from the Force like you, and I will teach you my magick in return. It is a fair exchange."

"Well, yeah, it is, but I never said I wanted to learn your magick," Cal says as he pulls his hand from hers, his mouth set into a fine line. Se can spot the hesitation inside him, no doubt remembering his upbringing.

"You are part of our clan now, and it is better for you to learn it. Believe me," Merrin tries to sound less excited than she already is, her falsely relaxed behavior already rubbing off on him.

"Okay..." Cal replies with a hesitant nod, his eyebrows rising high on his face as he exhales deeply. He takes a step forward and rubs his face with his palms, his fingers gently traveling in his thick, copper hair.

"Back when I fought in that arena, I tried my best to avoid every blow from my opponent. When I felt I had no escape, I used a simple technique the Jedi use to get things out of their way. It's simply called a Force push."

Merrin watches attentively as Cal straightens his back and brings his arms to his chest. He takes a deep breath and extends both his arms at the same time with a swift motion as a powerful shockwave topples the small foliage in front of him. "Like so," he ads with a gentle smile on his face. "Now you try it."

"Stand back, husband. I will attempt," Merrin declares in a dry voice, and Cal steps to the side as she imitates his position.

She plants her feet close to each other on the ground and brings her own arms to her chest. With a deep exhale, she extends her arms in front of her, only to meet nothing but the gentle breeze of the Dathomirian morning air.

"I think I felt something," Cal comments from the side.

Merrin turns her head to glare at him, and if Cal could see, he would be murdered by her eyes alone. He takes her silence as a cue to step forward, and he begins to speak in a soft voice. "Try again."

She obeys as she assumes the same stance and tries to Force push again, only for the same result. An exasperated sigh escapes her lips, and she stomps her foot on the ground while she tries again, to no result.

Before she can begin to rage, she feels a pair of strong hands grab her arms from behind. Cal is behind her, and he guides her feet until they are neatly placed next to each other. He lowers her arms and places a firm hand on her back.

"Your stance is the most important thing. It may not seem important, but our bodies are only an extension, a conduit for the Force to flow. You need a strong center to allow the energy to flow properly, or else it gets stuck."

"I do not understand. I am drawing from the Force properly."

"Here, let me help."

Her hearts begin to beat faster from his sudden proximity. The soothing tone of his voice in her ears sends a small shiver down her back as a bead of sweat begins to form on her right temple. She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, trying to concentrate on his words, when all she can feel is the touch of his skin against hers, and she almost backs further into him as he begins to explain.

"When you use the Force, you have to draw it from somewhere. Feel the Force flow from the bottom of your feet all the way to your fingertips. Don't stop it, let it run its course naturally," Cal is now impossibly close, his hands guiding her own in such gentle movement that it reminds Merrin of a lovely dance.

"The Force will travel inside your body like a river ready to spill into the sea, and once you feel the tip of your fingertips beginning to tingle, you release it!" Cal extends her arms in front of her rapidly as a smaller shockwave materializes in front of her.

Merrin feels a sudden rush of adrenaline and exhaustion setting in her muscles instantly. Cal releases her arms and steps backward as she begins to pant, her hearts jumping inside her chest. Her fingers shake, and she turns her hands to stare at her palms, still amazed by her ability.

"It feels so...different," she speaks in a weak voice, still staring at her palms.

"I know. The more you practice, the better you'll get at it."

"But there must be more than just this," Merrin turns to face Cal with a smile on her face, only for it to fade once she spots his reserved expression. Cal lowers his head, an immediate sad smile peeking from under his locks.

"There is, but where there is power, there must also be restraint. Otherwise, we're no better than our enemies."

"The Empire?" she straightens her back, the beating of both her heartbeats slowly returning to a steady rhythm.

"No. This goes back ages, when the Forces of the dark side rivaled those of the light. But that's a different story, for another time."

"Mother Merrin!" A loud voice cuts their conversation short. With furious steps, Valeria rushes towards them with a grave look in her eyes.

"Yes, Valeria, what is it?" Merrin replies in a frustrated voice, her eyes traveling towards Cal for a second, who retreats quietly to the side.

"We have been looking for you for hours! I thought-"

"And now you have found me. Do not despair, sister, for I did not travel far, and as you can see, I am in the perfectly capable hands of my husband."

"Of course..." the Nightsister's eyes are filled with contempt as they rest on Cal, her expression turning sour for a second. She curses weakly under her breath and diverts her attention back to Merrin. "There is an urgent matter in dire need of your attention, Mother! This cannot wait any longer!"

"If this is as urgent as the last matter we discussed, then I am inclined to spend the rest of my day here, in the company of my husband," she raises her eyebrows and gives Valeria a condescending look.

"No, this is of utmost importance! One of our scouts has found the body of a Nightbrother lying in the swamps."

"What?" Merrin steps closer, her attention now fully on Valeria. "How is this possible?"

"I do not know Mother, but he was found not long ago. He has burns all over his body, and it appears he was executed, though by whom we do not know," Valeria inches closer to Merrin, whispering into her ear.

"This cannot happen! I have placed protection spells all over the valley!" Merrin's hearts begin to race, and she takes a deep breath. "I must leave at once!"

"This way, Mother. I will guide you to where the body has been found so we may begin the preparation to bury him properly," Valeria places a steady hand on her back and guides her slowly.

"Wait!" Cal's voice echoes from behind, causing the two Nightsisters to turn and face him. "I want to come with you to help."

Merrin gives him a sad smile, her eyes filled with uncertainty, while a loud scoff can be heard emanating from Valeria. The Nightsister glares at Cal with an ironic stare, her words filled with disdain.

"Ha! What could you possibly do to help that our Mother cannot? Do not forget your place, interloper. This is as far as you are permitted to venture, and if you dare to leave the village without our Mother's permission, you will be punished accordingly."

A loud silence fills the space between them, and Cal lowers his head as a frustrated sight escapes his lips. Merrin can see his expression shifting, the disappointment etched on his face. She wants to speak, to say something, and to shut Valeria up, but finds herself unable to do so.

Despite her negative attitude and loud distaste for her husband, Valeria gives good counsel and is very dependable, so for once she will reluctantly agree with her, despite the burning ache in her chest begging to disagree with her.

"You will remain here for the moment, Cal, but I do appreciate your willingness to help. Return to your home, and if I require your help, I will send Orin to fetch you," she turns to leave with Valeria.

As soon as she takes a step, she stops and turns quickly to face him. With haste, she runs towards him and gives him a warm hug, discreetly placing a small item in his right hand. He gives her a quick smile, and she turns to leave again, this time for good.

Cal's journey back to his house is riddled with deep thoughts. He tries to keep an optimistic mind and encourage himself that it's not so bad, but Valeria's words keep reminding him of his status here. Not exactly a prisoner, but not free either. This village was just another bigger cage, and now he is Forced to live among people who do not enjoy his company.

He jumps on his bed and lies on his back as he fiddles with the item Merrin gave him not long ago. Judging by the rough edges and smooth surface, it's a delicate bracelet. His fingers trace over the intricate designs sculpted on it, wondering what they mean. His thoughts consume him as he continues to play with the object until he berates himself for not realizing sooner.

His eyes widen as he suddenly realizes why she gifted him the object, and he begins to concentrate until he can feel the familiar pull of a strong Force echo imprinted on the bracelet. The darkness around him fades as a bright orange glow invades his surroundings, the color so vivid and intense that it makes him stare intensely.

He can see pale gray hands reaching out to the sunset, the fingers slim and delicate. The sun rises beautifully while the figure continues to stare with a heavy sigh, and she averts her gaze, her attention now fixed on a thick golden piece of jewelry.

Cal concentrates until he can spot her reflection, revealing long silver hair and big brow eyes, accompanied by pale gray skin and dark, thin tattoos symmetrically placed on her face. Her lips are dark and full, and she stares with an almost longing look on her face until she turns her head, and gods, she is the most beautiful woman he has ever laid eyes upon.

Her eyes travel towards him, and he sees himself next to her, meditating. Cal can't help but feel a bit taken aback by his own appearance. His hair is now reaching his ears while a thick stubble rests on his face, the light copper hair shining even brighter from the sun's rays.

He's had a fair idea of what he looked like before the purge happened, but with everything that happened after, he barely had time to look. So to see himself from her perspective was definitely strange, and deep down he hopes she was not disappointed. The echo lingers inside his mind even hours after it fades, and he looks at it many times, careful not to miss any details.

A discreet knock on his door makes him drop the bracelet on the ground, and he jumps from the bed, his head sporting a small headache. With quiet steps, he reaches and hides the item in his pocket before inching towards the door, wondering who could be bothering him. As soon as he opens the door, he feels a gust of wind, and light footsteps dash past him, closing the door with a loud thud.

"Merrin? What are you doing here?"

"Shh, lower your voice, Cal. I must speak with you, alone," she grabs him by the hands and drags him until they are both seated on the edge of his bed. Her breath is quick, and he can sense the urgency in her voice as she leans closer to him.

"What happened? Are you okay?"

"I am fine..." her voice trails off, as if she is considering her next words carefully. "This is not why I came here. I require your aid. Only you can help me with what I am about to ask."

"You need my help? With what?" he leans closer to hear her words better.

"Before I speak, know that my arrival here must be kept a secret, Cal."

"Okay, I won't tell anyone. Now, how can I help?"

Merrin takes a deep, shaky breath before she begins to speak again, and he can feel the hesitation in her voice. Whatever happened, it was urgent enough for her to seek his help as soon as possible.

"As you know, a Nightbrother has been found deceased in the swamps. Valeria guided me to the scene of the crime, and I have inspected the body myself, but something makes me doubt the nature of his death, despite Valeria's effort in claiming he was a victim of our rival clans."

"What makes you say that? Did you see something suspicious?"

"No, but all this feels...strange. The body was found in a swamp beyond the borders of our territory. No Nightbrother dares to venture so close to uncharted lands."

"Maybe he got lost? No offense, Merrin, but your planet's not exactly easy to navigate."

"Impossible. Our brothers have been trained to navigate ever since they were small, and this one has never disobeyed our orders."

"It does seem strange, but accidents do happen," Cal reasons while he gently squeezes her hands in reassurance.

Merrin ponders for a moment, unable to reply. Maybe Cal is right, as accidents do tend to happen to those who consider themselves braver than the rest, but something in the back of her mind keeps insisting the situation is not what it seems.

"I wish for you to look into the past and reveal what has happened. None of the Nightsisters are aware of your gift, and I would prefer to keep it a secret as well. In case I require your help with more... delicate matters."

"You don't fully trust them," Cal says, tilting his head with a surprised look on his face.

"I... It is better not to speak of such matters anymore. Now, tell me, husband, will you be my eyes into the past?" she raises herself from the bed and anxiously waits for his response.

"Of course. Lead the way," he jumps to his feet without hesitation.

Merrin's eyes light up, and she grabs his hand while she guides him quietly outside his house and towards the swamp. Her hearts begin to race as she never lets go of his hand, the feeling of his warmth in her palm filling her with a strong sense of happiness, and she turns to catch a glimpse of his face. Cal follows her without question throughout their entire journey, his lips forming a tender smile as soon as she turns to look at him, and she has a fair idea that he somehow knows she's also smiling, the Gora-bats inside her stomach refusing to leave as a deep sigh escapes her lips, and she realizes there is no turning back. She is unexpectedly and truly in love with him.

Chapter Text

The swamp feels damp and cold as both Cal and Merrin arrive near the scene of the incident. The smell of charred flesh still lingers in the air, while an uncomfortable silence surrounds them, the place marked by recent death. Cal's senses guide him towards the place where the body was found. He leans forward, reaching out with his hand until he can feel the faint echo imprinted on the ground.

"Is this where you found him?" he asks, pointing toward the ground.

"Yes. Valeria did not dare to move him until I arrived."

Cal furrows his eyebrows as he lowers himself and places two fingers on the muddy ground. A strange coldness can be felt from the echo, something sinister lurking underneath the peaceful atmosphere.

"What was his name?" he asks, curious about the poor victim.

"He was one of the younger ones—a good man. His name was Ayen."

"Ayen? I know him!" Cal jumps to his feet as a sudden feeling of regret invades him. "We talked for a bit before Isea came to take me away. He seemed really nice, different from the rest of the Nightbrothers."

"He was. Remember when I told you at our wedding that Isea's heart lies in another place?" Merrin's tone sounds mournful, filled with regret. "It was Ayen that she held dear the most."

"I'm so sorry," Cal replies with a regretful voice. "Have you told her yet?"

"I tried to keep his death a secret until we were certain who killed him, but she saw the body as it was being prepared for burial. She knows..."

"Then let's find out who really did this," Cal lowers himself on the ground again and places his palm on the mud. A flash of determination crosses his face, trying to ignore the sudden feeling of regret trying to break his concentration. He reaches out further until he can feel the echo getting stronger, catapulting him into the vivid memory.

Strange vines and a tall bush greet Cal's vision as the Nightbrother hides in it. There is faint chatter coming from ahead, and he leans closer until he can spot a hooded figure chatting with three strange men. They have black armor all over their bodies and carry weapons in their hands. The hooded figure's face is obscured, but a long red robe can be seen draping from under the black cloak.

Their chatter continues as the Nightbrother remains hidden, trying to listen to their conversation. The words are faint, and Cal tries to concentrate and hear them louder, but all he can understand is something about a plan being put in place in the next few weeks.

A loud crack diverts the men's attention toward the Nightbrother as he accidentally steps on a dried vine, and the hooded figure runs while the armed men approach the scene. There is little time left as Ayen tries to run, only to be bested by their weapons, his life slowly slipping away from his severe injuries.

Cal recovers from the memory with a hard gasp, his heart jumping inside his chest from the shock. He takes a shaky breath and runs his trembling fingers through his hair, trying to calm himself. Merrin jumps to his side, her tone worried, while she places a soft hand on his shoulder.

"What is it? What did you see?"

"Ugh..." his voice trembles while he takes a deep breath and tries to calm his mind. The feeling of burning death still lingers on his skin, the sharp pain and the mix of fear and despair unrelenting. Cal shakes his head, pushing the memory aside, while Merrin's gentle hands on the sides of his face bring him back to reality.

"I saw...armed men and a cloaked figure speaking very close to our location. They were wearing strange black armor, and they had blasters tight in their hands," Cal speaks through ragged breaths, his heart still pounding in his chest. He takes another shaky breath and runs his fingers through his hair as a sentiment of confusion settles on him.

"Black armor," Merrin's voice is filled with concern, and she retracts her hand from his face, leaving a considerable gap between them. "The Empire is still here."

"I thought they left," Cal rises to his feet, contemplating his next words. If the Empire still roams Dathomir, nobody is safe, as they will surely attack sooner rather than later. There was also the other matter of the cloaked figure, and Cal's heart dropped thinking of delivering Merrin the bad news.

Her suspicion had indeed been confirmed, as the undeniable red material draped under the black cloak could only belong to one of the Nightsisters from this clan, though which one was it, he could not say. Nevertheless, Merrin had the right to know if one of her sisters was plotting to align herself with the Empire, even if the truth would no doubt sting.

"I also believed this as well. It seems fate would have it no other way that what I fear will come, and knowing this, I must go and warn my sisters..." Merrin's tone feels almost dejected, and Cal can sense the disappointment in her voice.

Before she can turn to leave, he reaches out until he can feel her presence, and grabs her hand gently. A soft gasp can be heard emanating from her lips as he pulls her closer, already regretting his next choice of words.

"Merrin, there's something else you should know."

Her silence indicates she's willing to listen, despite the sudden tenseness in her muscles as she exhales and murmurs a weak sentence under her breath. Another few seconds pass in complete silence before Cal musters the courage to finally speak.

"You can't tell your sisters about this. I think someone from your inner circle might be working with the Empire. I don't know who it is, but right now I think it's better if we keep this to ourselves."

"No, this cannot be! You are mistaken!" her voice is bitter and angry, and she breaks their embrace with a swift motion, the hurt undeniable in her words.

"I'm sorry. I know this is a lot to take in, but I know what I saw. Are there other clans who also wear the same colors as yours?" Cal tries to mend the situation, despite already knowing the resolution.

Merrin is silent for a moment, and Cal regrets even mentioning the subject. It is without a doubt that she loves her sisters above anything else, and for him to accuse one of them of such a betrayal will surely cause a divide between them. He laments the thought of Merrin losing her trust in him after everything that's happened between them in the past few days.

"Are you sure this is what you saw?" Her voice sounds gentler than before, with a slight hint of resignation peeking from underneath. She exhales deeply, and for a moment, Cal considers lying to her, telling her he made a mistake. But then he thinks about the consequences, with the whole clan bound to suffer if he spares her the harsh truth.

"One hundred percent. I would never lie to you about such things, Merrin, as much as I'd want for it not to be true. Ayen died because of what he saw, and from now on, we must be really careful."

"I agree. From this moment forth, we will not mention this to another soul. The rest of our clan believes Ayen died at the hands of our rivals, and as much as it pains me to know the truth, for now we must indulge in this lie until we can reveal our traitor."

The air feels cold around them as Cal gestures and approving nod and remains silent. Whatever happens next, he feels at peace that at very least, he was able to warn Merrin of the incoming danger, even if it might be closer than they think. Whatever plans this Nightsister has with the Empire, it can only lead to more death and destruction, and he regrets the inevitability of it all. One way or another, everywhere he goes, he is certain death follows.

"So now what? Do we just live our lives until something happens again?" Cal steps closer. Merrin guides him until they are back on the path, traveling quietly on the main road.

"I suppose it is for the best to wait for a few days. I still cannot believe one of my sisters would do such a thing..." Her voice trails off, incredibly dejected. As they walk, Cal can sense the weight of Merrin's sorrow and uncertainty.

There is a sense of despair and sadness lingering in the air as Cal grows closer to Merrin and places a soft hand on her shoulder. He can feel the tense muscles refusing to relax despite her insistance that she is fine, and he stops as a sincere smile flashes on his lips.

"I know something that might cheer you up, if you agree, of course," he declares fast, the sentence making her stop in her tracks. The silence and small laugh that follow make him realize instantly the suggestive manner in which he spoke, his cheeks burning hot as he stumbles to reevaluate his words.

"I meant reading, not-well, you know," he shrugs as more silence greets him, and he gestures with his hands vaguely in the air, trying to mask his nervousness. "Maybe you can continue that story you read to me last time. I really liked it."

"You liked it?" Merrin replies with a hint of suspicion in her voice, her face undoubtedly displaying a cheeky grin.

"I did, though you kinda left me hanging there at the end. I wanna know what happens next."

"Then let us find out together, husband," her voice sound low and flirtatious as her hands wrap gently around his own. She begins to guide him on the path towards the temple, and judging by the cold breeze outside it was already past midnight.

Cal wonders if the other Nightsisters frown upon him being brought here so many time while the rest of the Nightbrother are forced to live secluded in their village. It is no secret that many of them would like to share the same privilege, to be free to roam the temple as they wish and even sped time with the ones they cherish.

But tradition is sacred to them, and Cal feels somewhat unworthy of challenging their ways, at least for now. Maybe in time, as he grows closer to Merrin, he will propose the idea.

"I can't believe she would leave him so easily! Something doesn't add up!" Cal jumps from his seat and begins to pace furiously left and right, agitated.

"It is just a story, Cal. Calm yourself," Merrin replies in an amused voice, setting the holobook on the table as she eyes him from head to toe. "It is not real."

"How can I be calm? She declared her undying love for him only for her to leave him on their wedding day! What can she possibly gain by going back to her people?" Cal's voice sounds even more agitated as he flails his arms around and slumps on the wooden chair with a defeated expression on his face.

"Perhaps her desires are not aligned with his," Merrin grabs the holobook and traces back until the moment in question. "You wish for me to stand by your side as an idol, yet do not value me as your equal. My heart aches for I cannot bear to live in your shadow anymore," she enunciates her words, observing how Cal tilts his head and leans forward, drawn by her voice.

"Are you not the one who last time questioned whether the prince's intentions were truly noble?" She raises an eyebrow at him, confused by his sudden change of heart.

"Well, yeah, I did, but..." he stops and thinks for a moment, his expression incredibly serious. "I actually thought she loved him," he ads with a deep sigh.

"Maybe she did, but in the end her fear won. It is no small feat to admit that, even if deep down, she still wishes to be with him."

"But if she wants to be with him, she should follow her heart, not her fear. Her people are gone, and if she goes back, she'll find nothing but pain and misery. She'll—" he swallows an uncomfortable lump in his throat and stops, unable to speak more.

"She will be all alone," Merrin ads in a small voice, noting the uncomfortable expression etched on Cal's face, despite his best effort to mask it. "This is not about the princess or the story anymore, is it?"

The complete silence that fills the room all but confirms her suspicions as she grows closer and places a soft hand on his own. He does not flinch, yet here is a strange hesitation inside him, and for once, ever since he was brought here on Dathomir, he looks incredibly vulnerable.

"Is loneliness what you fear?" she gives his hand a gentle squeeze while he lowers his head, the red strands of hair carefully hiding his face. He does not answer, still deep in contemplation while she stands up form her seat and inches even closer to him. She raises her right hand until her finger rests comfortably under his chin.

With a quiet motion, she lifts his head and looks at him with a peculiar glint in her eyes, her palm now cupping the left side of his face. Cal's takes note of her gesture, his hand reaching until it rests softly on top of her own. He releases a deep sigh and leans into her touch as he stands up from his seat, now facing her completely.

No amount of words can describe the taste of his lips as he unexpectedly leans forward, searching her presence until he finds her and places a soft kiss on her dark lips. The air around them feels hot and dry as Cal pulls backwards, his lips slightly parted while he pants quietly.

A cold sensation lingers on her lips from his sudden departure, and before he can speak or materialize any words, she pulls him closer as she captures his lips again, this time harder. The small sound of a muffled moan can be heard from him as his hands begin to wander frantically all over her back, pulling her even closer, her tongue now drawing small circles in the inside of his mouth.

Suddenly she is under him, laying with her back on the table while Cal's upper half is now planted on top of her, his mouth busy sucking the delicate skin on her neck while his left hand rests at the back of her neck, his fingers playing with her silver hair constantly.

She can feel his heartbeat so fast and strong, the rush of adrenaline traveling quietly all over his body while he continues to plant kisses all over her neck and her lips without stopping for a breath of air. Her fingers travel gradually until they rest in his thick, copper hair, and she tightens her left fist around the locks until they are securely wrapped around them. With her other hand, she traces his back with her fingernails, sending shivers of pleasure all over his body.

The sound of the door opening makes them jump on their feet, both desperately trying to erase every evidence of lust on their bodies as Isea makes her way inside the library. She stops immediately, her eyes widening in surprise at the disheveled appearances of both her Mother and her new husband. Without saying a word, she backs away slowly until she is past the threshold, a sudden smirk flashing on her lips as she turns, closes the door quietly, and leaves.

Merrin's eyes wander over to Cal as both her hearts gradually return to beat at a steady rhythm, observing his nervous behavior. His hair is all ruffled and a low, heavy breath can be heard emanating from him. His face is flushed, and his fingers tremble lightly while he runs a shaky hand through his hair, trying to calm himself.

She also takes a discreet peek at herself, straightening her robes and her hair, the sweet sensation of his kiss still lingering fresh on her skin. The room is quiet save for both their ragged breaths, and she clears her throat, immediately capturing Cal's attention.

"I believe I have to return to my duties, husband. I will summon Orin to lead you back to your home," she declares in a stern voice while her mind feels a tinge of regret for not staying more with him.

"There's no need for that. I already have the entire road memorized by steps," Cal replies as he inches forward and gives her a gentle nod.

"But you have only been summoned here twice..."

"I'll be fine, Merrin. Don't worry about me. Go attend to your important duties," he gestures a small bow, and she can't help but smile seeing him like this.

She turns to leave, only to stop as soon as she's at the door. Her head turns to spot him in the same spot, with him no doubt still thinking about their latest encounter. Merrin's lips form a small smirk as she continues to stare at him. A million thoughts plague her mind as she forces herself to leave before she finds it impossible to do so.

The journey back to the Nightbrother village was done quietly and carefully, with Cal counting his every step while the Force helped him navigate the rocky terrain. A few Bane-backs tried to circle him, but he redirected their path quite easily with a few well placed Jedi tricks, and before he knew it, he was safely home, lying in his bed again. All alone.

The memory of what happened inside the library refuses to leave his mind, as is Merrin's delicate touch on his skin, making him shiver all of a sudden. There was more than the sentiment of pleasure plaguing his mind, and he feels his stomach turn with each breath until he completely surrenders himself to the sensation.

Love was not something the monks discussed, with the Jedi outright discouraging the sentiment of attachment toward a significant other. The more cold and detached a Jedi was, the less he was likely to be seduced by the dark side.

Still, friendships among the Jedi were allowed, and to some extent even the pleasure of sex without meaningful attachment. However, the monks restricted themselves from carnal pleasures entirely, dedicating themselves body and mind to the Force and the Jedi Order.

Cal tries to reason with himself, arguing that he is young and his body betrays him every time he feels her gentle touch, but the more he thinks, the more he believes he lies to himself. There is no betrayal going on besides his consistent denial of his feelings. He feels love and desire every time he's around Merrin, and it's about damn time he admitted the truth.

"What are you doing, you idiot?" he murmurs to himself, the voice of reason gaining the upper hand in the constant battle inside his mind. A small voice at the back of his mind won't let him forget that he is still, after all, a prisoner on this world, brought here with only one purpose in mind.

Yet he can't help but feel safe around Merrin, and despite the unfortunate circumstance of his presence on this planet, he starts thinking seriously about his future. With the Jedi and the monks gone, he has nothing left to return to, even if he will be allowed to do so.

The sound of loud chatter and arguing breaks his train of thought, and he jumps to his feet as a feeling of nervousness washes over him. The voices grow louder as soon as he approaches the door, and he steps outside only to bump into a nearby Nightbrother. The man pays him no attention as he continues to cheer, the atmosphere erupting into complete chaos shortly after.

"Murderers! They will pay in blood for this transgression!" one of them yells, while another agrees loudly from the other side. More voices begin to express their approval as Cal tries to make his way gradually through the crowd and find the source for all this loud noise.

"The Howling Crag's will know our true strength! I will lead the attack!" a familiar voice echoes into the village. Cal concentrates, trying to place the strong voice to a name, but before he can think, a rough hand grabs him and pulls him to the side.

"Careful, boy! It's dangerous to be outside right now!" Orin guides him to a more secluded area while the loud and agitated voices of the Nightbrothers resound in the entire village.

"Orin! What's going on?" Cal takes a seat on a wooden barrel while the older Nightbrother joins him and begins whispering in his ear.

"Word has spread out that one of our brothers has been murdered in cold blood by one of our rival clans. Nobody knows who did it, but Kylen insists that the Howling Crag is responsible and now, he demands full justice."

"Kylen. I knew I recognized that voice..." Cal thinks for a moment, "This is all wrong. We need to stop this," he leans forward and whispers back, knowing fully the sole responsible for Ayen's death.

"Why? If the Howling Crags are behind this, then we need to show our strength and courage by avenging our brother's death."

"No," Cal shakes his head and lowers his voice in case someone overhears him. "It's not the Howling Crags, trust me. I can't say how I know, but if they go looking for death, they'll find it. Please, you have to listen to me."

"My dear boy, even if I believed you, it is not me who you will have to convince. It is them..." his voice trails off, suggesting the exact same thing Cal dreads to even think about.

The Nightbrothers grow restless, their shouts and cheers as Kylen speaks to them all but confirming their imminent departure. One way or another, they demand blood, and Cal decides it's better to try and intervene rather than stand around and do nothing.

"Don't listen to him! The Howling Crags have nothing to do with Ayen's death!" Cal yells with all his strength, the voices in front of him subsiding while a few disapproving complaints can already be heard from their disgruntled voices.

"Silence, outsider! You have no place to speak among us!" Kylen declares in a bitter voice, his footsteps growing closer to Cal's location. He growls in frustration while a few men behind him voice their support.

"Really? Because I distinctly remember being dragged here to be forced into your clan, so I'll speak whenever I want! You're making a big mistake, and you're dragging even more poor souls to their deaths!" Cal stands up from his seat, determined to prove his point.

"Are you not satisfied enough, interloper?" Kylen steps closer. "First you steal our women, then you steal our houses, and now...now you wish to steal our courage. We will not bow and bend to your peaceful ways! We are Nightbrothers, and we fight until our death!" he shouts as all the remaining Nightbrothers begin to cheer again.

Cal sighs and releases an ironic laugh, berating himself for being foolish enough to believe he could persuade them. It's not about Ayen, he slowly realizes as he remains silent in his spot, contemplating his next move. Kylen wants to make this all about himself, to parade the Nightbrothers into battle only to feed his own delusion of greatness.

"Fine. Since you seem so determined to die, then I wanna join you in your quest," Cal waves his hand in front of him, inviting the Nightbrother to make the next move. If what he believes is true, Kylen will be arrogant enough to underestimate him again but also eager enough to lead him to his death.

A loud laugh takes him by surprise, the sound like a pair of sharp nails scratching on a harsh surface. Kylen scoffs while a few outright laugh and mock his proposal.

"You would die before we even reach our first campsite," he declares in an arrogant tone, stepping away from him as he returns into his initial spot. "Though I am certain none will mourn after you, brother," he ads, his tone now fully ironic.

"Don't worry about me, I can take care of myself just fine. But you already know that," Cal replies with a crooked smirk, the sentence already garnering a frustrated growl from the other man.

Furious steps inch towards him until a rough hand grabs him by the neck of his tunic, the Nightborther's breath hot and unpleasant on his face. Cal straightens his back and waits with a determined look on his face, unwilling to let himself be intimidated by Kylen's rough grip.

"We leave tonight! Do not fall behind, or we will leave you as food for the hungry Nydaks," Kylen warns while he shoves Cal backwards furiously and leaves without saying another word.

A few whispers can be heard from nearby, with the rest of the men all but gone, and Cal takes a deep breath, already regretting his decision.

"Again, I don't think he likes me very much," Cal takes a seat back again next to Orin, who grumbles loudly and murmurs something under his breath.

"No, he does not... though I must urge you not to further antagonize him like that, unless you have a serious death wish."

"I don't. But someone needs to keep his arrogance in check. I figured since I'm married to Merrin, I may be able to be the only one to do it without losing my head."

"You think just because you have the Mother's graces that you are safe from harm? I pegged you for a smarter man, Cal."

The words hold as much truth as Cal wishes they didn't. Whatever advantages he had because of his union with the Mother had to end somewhere, and he reluctantly agrees with Orin's statement.

"I understand how dangerous this place can get. I also get that I might have more privileges than the rest."

"You have no idea...many would kill for the life you have been offered so freely, and believe me when I say that if the opportunity arises, they will do just that. Always keep your guard up, especially when you are all alone."

"So I made a mistake, offering myself to go out there alone."

"Alone? Oh, you are not going alone. I will join you."

"Really?" Cal rises to his feet, completely surprised. A quick breath of relief escapes his mouth, his shoulders slumping while his heart begins to beat at a normal pace. The feeling of anticipation travels through him, and he tries to focus on what will happen next.

The Nightbrothers are ruthless, and he knows they will not welcome him with open arms, despite proving himself more than capable in that arena. Jaro Tapal's words come to mind again, and he tries to keep an optimistic mind, refusing to let these strangers intimidate him.

"I will go and prepare for our journey ahead. If we leave tonight, it will take us at least a day to reach the other side of the valley on foot." Orin stands up and begins to walk ways form his spot.

"Wouldn't it be easier to fly there?" Cal interjects with curiosity.

"Unless you and the rest of the Nightbrothers suddenly grow wings in the next hours, I am afraid our legs are our or best option," Orin replies in a bemused voice.

"No, I mean with a ship. Don't you have those?"

"There is only one vessel, and that my boy is restricted to the Mother and her sisters."

It all makes sense for Cal now. Isea had used Merrin's ship to track and defeat the bounty hunters that captured him first. A sudden wave of relief washes over him, with the pieces slowly but surely coming together, and he stands up as he begins to walk toward his home.

Going into battle with a handful of fierce warriors was the last thing he expected himself to do when he arrived this morning home. A good sleep was what he needed to mentally prepare himself for whatever they will find once they reach the Howling Crag. He foolishly hopes the other clan members will be less inclined to fight, but given the nature of this planet, there is only one way this will end—in complete disaster.

Chapter Text

The cold night air of Dathomir is refreshing on Cal's face as he walks next to Orin. He doesn't know how many miles they have walked, but judging by the dull pain on his lower legs, it must have been at least a few hours since they left the village. He never felt as happy as he feels now to have so much exercise walking, as this trip will surely test his limits, both physically and mentally.

Cal wonders if Merrin knows about this. Her absence here indicates Kylen has taken charge of leadership among the rest of the clan members, filling their heads with false promises of glory.

"Hey Orin? Can I ask you something?" Cal speak while he continues to walk, trying hard to ignore the fatigue slowly setting in his muscles.

"Of course," Orin's voice feels tired, and surely enough, a deep yawn materializes shortly after from his mouth.

"Let's just pretend for a moment that the Nightbrothers would be allowed to roam the temple. No more strict rules or tradition. Complete freedom for them to do as they like. Would that be a bad thing?"

"Hmm..." Orin replies in a low voice, and remains silent while he contemplates his answer.

The lack of answer makes him also ponder his question, wondering if this was even a matter in which he should get involved. The Nightsisters live separately from them for an obvious reason, and once again, Cal feels deeply conflicted about this whole ordeal.

"There is a reason tradition has prevailed over progress for so many years," Orin finally speaks, drawing Cal's attention back to him. "There is also the simple matter of numbers, my boy. While our leader and her beautiful sisters may have strength and magick by their sides, our numbers far surpass them by ten to one."

"But that wasn't always the case, was it? I mean, before the massacre, I'm pretty sure there were a lot more than six Nightsisters living inside the temple."

"You are indeed correct. Mother Talzin led the clan with an iron fist, and until her demise, the entire galaxy had already learned to fear Dathomir and the Nightsisters."

Cal remembers an old data disk he found a few years ago hidden deep in the Jedha archives. He felt so excited back then when he found the damned thing, wondering why anyone would hide it so well. He soon learned exactly why, with the vivid images of a sinister grin flashing before his eyes. The tall figure of a red and black dressed woman appeared in front of him, her hands lit in green flames while she chanted in a strange language.

The monk who found him ripped the data disk from his fingers instantly, yet even now, after all these years, he can still feel the cold chill traveling down his spine upon seeing her image. Even after his friend carefully explained what happened, he still felt confused as to what exactly he had seen. Only now the picture becomes crystal clear, the woman no doubt being one of the feared Nightsisters for Dathomir, if not the former revered Mother in all her glory.

"Is Merrin like Talzin?" Cal redirects the subject elsewhere.

"Quite the opposite, though do not mistake her kindness for weakness. While our former leader led through fear, our new Mother is indeed far less inclined to violence. But that does not mean she will not act if she feels threatened."

Cal nods, acknowledging Orin's statement. He remembers the first time he was brought to face Merrin, her strong voice echoing inside the room while he was forced to kneel in front of her. But even then, when she was a complete stranger, he could sense something different in her voice, something deep down indicating there was more to the ruthless leader façade she put on.

"Get down!" a loud voice interrupts their conversation; strong hands are already pulling him to the ground, face first into dirt. Cal shields his head with his arms as Orin keeps a steady hand on his back and commands him to crawl ahead.

"We must find shelter! Go straight! I'm right behind you!" Orin yells as he begins to crawl next to him until they are safely hidden under a large tree. Cal can sense the proximity of the other Nightbrothers huddled next to him, Kylen's voice strong and harsh echoing inside the valley.

"Ambush! Prepare yourselves, brothers! Stand your ground!"

"I thought we're only halfway," Cal stresses from his spot, agitated.

"We are. It seems the Crags have scouts all over the valley. We must prepare for more to come."

"Archers to the north!" one of the Nightbrothers yells as the sound of flying arrows dashes past Cal's left ear, and he lowers his head again to keep himself safe.

The sound of the Nightbothers preparing to fight fills Cal with a sense of anticipation and dread like no other. Living his entire life inside a peaceful monastery did little to prepare him for an actual battle, and no matter how many echoes he saw of armies slaughtering each other, it was nothing compared to the real thing.

Loud shouts and battle screams engulf the valley as the Nightbrothers charge to attack their foes, and Cal decides it's now or never. The Force is always by his side, and he reaches out even further, approximating the size of the terrain until he can sense the incoming enemies.

There are at least ten of them running, light on their feet with their weapons tight in their hands. Now was as good a time as ever to practice some of the more advanced Jedi tricks taught by his dear friend. He jumps to his feet, fist clenched and a wild look on his face, determined.

"What are you doing? Get down!" Orin's voice sounds desperate, but Cal's mind is already made.

None of the Nightbrothers can use the Force, and if he can help shield some of them from danger, he will do just that. Kylen's rage for battle will have to be smothered, with Cal knowing well a lot of senseless death will follow in the next few minutes.

"I'm helping!" he yells back, his feet already running towards danger. Kriffin hell! he curses inside his mind as an arrow passes right past him, planting itself behind him.

The feeling of adrenaline rises inside his body as he joins the charging Nightbrothers, led by Kylen forward. The enemy can be heard shouting in a strange language, while the sound of battle commencing in front of him catches him off guard. A Nightbrother swings his metal club fiercely to his side while an archer sends arrows swiftly, their ragged breaths muffled by the sudden chaos.

"Die, you filthy Crags!" can be heard throughout the ongoing battle, and Cal recalls a neat trick Jaro Tapal taught him in case he ever needed to retrieve something fast.

There was a large man swinging his weapon in front of him, the sound of his voice and the language he spoke unfamiliar. One of the Crag warriors, Cal realizes as he dodges the incoming blow with swift precision. The man growls and Cal runs to the side, using the terrain to his advantage. He turns and stretches his hand, the familiar sensation of the Force pulling at the weapon in the enemy's hands.

"Teh'lor!" the man growls as the weapon files from his hands and into Cal's own. The hilt of the metal club now rests in Cal's palm, and it's definitely heavier than he expected. He drops it to the ground almost instantly, and before the man can charge and attack him, he pushes him across the battlefield with a Force wave so strong it topples the rest of the Nightbrother and their opponents.

"Yes! The stranger shows his true strength!" a Nightbrother yells while the rest stumble on their feet. A frustrated growl can be heard emanating from the other side, with Cal suspecting it is Kylen's loud embodiment of frustration.

The battle resumes instantly, with the Nightbrothers already suffering a few casualties. Cal hates feeling the emptiness while the soul leaves a body as it perishes away. He's light on his feet as they continue to advance, and Orin joins his side, panting hard. "We have to stop this!"

"I want to, trust me, but I don't know how! I seriously doubt Kylen will listen to reason!" Cal yells back as he pushes another enemy with the Force, his body flying across the ongoing battle.

"It does not matter anymore, it is already too late..." Orin's voice trails off.

Cal senses the shift in his voice, wondering why it sounds so defeated, but before he can realize what is happening, the sound of a small ship echoes above them. The wind blows above them as the Nigthbrothers retreat to the side while three light figures land immediately in front of them, dividing the battlefield.

There is an ominous silence following their arrival, but Cal knows one thing for sure—Merrin is here. He can sense her presence through the Force unmistakably—a Nightsister truly like no other. As soon as he realizes who came to their aid, the powerful voice of chanting can be heard emanating from her mouth, the sound of her voice sending shivers of fear down his spine.

Something shifts on the ground, her magick pulsing through the air as the deafening silence is replaced by the sound of screaming men. Cal doesn't know exactly who the other two Nightsisters by Merrin's side are, but judging by the sound of pure horror coming from the Howling Crags, he can only assume both Kora and Fey fight along with their leader.

The battle is over before it even has time to unfold, with the Howling Crags running defeated toward their borders. The smell of burning flesh and blood lingers in the air, and before he even has time to realize it, Cal feels the burning presence of Merrin strong by his side.

"I can explain!" he raises his hands in front of him peacefully, trying to imagine the probably disappointed or angry expression on her face.

"Not here, Cal Kestis!" her voice sounds cold and fearsome, filled with raging authority. The rest of the Nightbrothers, with even Kylen, fall silent as she begins to speak again, dual voices echoing all around them.

"Whoever is responsible for this foolish quest will step forward now!"

None dare to speak as the uncomfortable silence emerges once more, the atmosphere deathly quiet. Cal strongly considers stepping forward and taking full blame for this failed mission. He, after all, did nothing to stop the Nightborther from enacting their wrongly placed revenge and even joined them like a lost man, desperately seeking approval. A weak sigh escapes his lips as he begins to step forward, only to be stopped by Kylen's strong voice.

"I was the one who sought to avenge Ayen's death while you and the rest remained hidden inside the temple and did nothing!"

"Mind your tongue, brother, lest you wish to lose it right now!" Kora's voice resounds loud and with deep authority.

"Silence! How dare you question my leadership?" Merrin steps forward, and Cal begins to sense the hurt and betrayal in her voice, masked by her cold demeanor.

"I am not the only one who questions it, Mother! Ever since you brought this stranger to our land, your judgment has been clouded, and your actions have made us reconsider whether you truly deserve to be our Mother!"

"How dare you speak to our leader like this? You should be begging at her feet for mercy while she still allows it!" Fey interjects with a sharp scream, growling at the Nightbrother.

"Stop fighting! I'm responsible for this! I told Kylen that the Howling Crags killed Ayen..." Cal steps forward, hoping to mend the conflict before it grows into another full-fledged fight. He can feel the burning stares on him as he takes another brave step, putting himself on the spotlight.

A weak scoff can be heard coming from Kylen, who surprisingly keeps quiet. No words leave his mouth, and he awaits for Merrin to speak, to say something. She's probably really angry, Cal thinks, the silence around him only adding to the bubble of anxiety waiting to burst in his chest.

The silence is unbearable as Merrin fails to respond, and Cal wonders if she's even by his side anymore. The gust of wind that rushes past him as she dashes without saying a word confirms she is indeed quite furious with him, his whole body tensing from nervousness.

"All of you return to the village at once!" she speaks before departing with both Kora and Fey inside her ship. The sound of the small vessel ascending into the clouds breaks Cal's withdrawn behavior as he feels a strong hand on his shoulder.

"Why did you do that? Why take the blame on yourself?" Orin asks, genuinely confused.

"She would have killed him for disobeying. I don't know how, but I just know it. He may be a jerk, but I don't want him to die. I don't want anyone else to die..."

"And now his punishment will fall on you."

"Yeah, I guess it will," Cal gives Orin a sad smile, knowing well this transgression will surely break the bond between him and Merrin for good.

The remaining Nightbrothers whisper among themselves, not daring to say anything while they march back to the village, with Kylen unexpectedly quiet for the entire journey. Cal wonders if he feels grateful for saving him from death, or if he feels satisfied he escaped a punishment that will be enacted on his enemy instead.

It felt strange for Cal to consider Kylen an enemy, despite his visible distrust of him. Cal never wanted to make enemies here, but it seemed the Force wanted to screw with him one last time before leaving his fate to the unknown. Whatever happens now, he will at least be glad he prevented more bloodshed, even if he'll never get to spend time with Merrin anymore.

Entering the village feels bittersweet, with a strong sensation of regret now completely overpowering him. Orin is also dead silent, walking next to him, and he tries to lift his spirits, to ensure him that everything will be alright.

"Wanna grab something to eat while we wait?"

"I am not hungry, Cal. If you do not mind, I wish to retreat to my chambers alone."

"No, I don't; go ahead." Cal sighs. Orin is upset—that much he can tell, but there is also a hint of sadness in his voice, alarming him. Before he can turn to leave for his home, two pairs of slender hands grab him from each side and begin to drag him forward.

"The Mother wants to see you now!" Fey declares in a loud voice, while her hands tighten around his arm.

Cal takes a deep breath, already imagining a plethora of scenarios as he is being dragged away from the village. The stew he received this morning has probably already gone bad by now, and his stomach grumbles remembering he barely had time to eat. No time to think about that now, he berates himself while wondering what harsh punishment Merrin will enact on him.

The doors close loudly behind him as he can barely manage to keep up with both Kora and Fey's speed. The Nightsisters drag him to what he can only assume is a secluded chamber inside the temple, one that he has not visited before. He's thrown unceremoniously to his knees, a dull pain aching in his whole body. The room is silent, and a pair of light steps begin to walk until they stop in front of him.

"Leave the room," Merrin declares in a dry and cold voice.

Shame and regret invade Cal while he keeps his head down, afraid to speak out of line. Ever since he's been brought here, he always felt somewhat safe around her, but now, while dragged here with such force, he scolds himself for being so naïve. Merrin is still the leader of this clan, one who has kept her end of the bargain so far, welcoming him as one of their own, and he went out of his way to disappoint her. As soon as the doors close, a frustrated sigh can be heard in the room, followed by another louder one.

"Have you forgotten your place here, Cal? Are you not a peaceful monk, or was that a lie?!"

He thinks hard about his answer as a rush of resentment overcomes him, and he lashes out, already regretting his word as soon as they leave his mouth. "I never forgot I'm your slave!"

"If you wish to be treated as one, all you have to do is continue to aggravate me! Why did you lie?!"

"I did it because you were going to kill him. We both made a mistake keeping the circumstances of Ayen's death a secret, and the Nightbrothers decided to take matters into their—"

"Enough!" her voice is loud and harsh, interrupting his sentence while she steps closer. He can hear another subdued sigh, and for the first time since they got married, he flinches at her proximity.

"How could you be so reckless to charge into battle without even being aware of your surroundings?!" she maintains a steady voice, now incredibly close to him.

"Just because I'm blind doesn't mean I don't know how to defend myself. I'm not as helpless as you think I am!"

The statement renders Merrin quiet, and Cal swallows a dry lump in his throat, the rush of adrenaline from the battle still lingering inside his body.

"I do not consider you helpless..." she ads in a low voice, full of regret. "On the contrary, I do believe you are braver than most. Stupid and reckless! ...but still... brave."

The room falls quiet for a few seconds while Cal processes her words. He never meant to upset her so badly, and now faced with the consequences of his actions, he feels mostly ashamed. But the deed was done, and the less fortunate Nightbrothers who lost their lives will forever haunt him, reminding him of his mistake.

"I tried to warn them not to leave, but they didn't listen, and before I realized it, I was already on my way to the Howling Crags."

"To prove what?" Merrin's tone is loud and demanding.

"None of the Nightbrothers beside Orin like me. They see me as this stranger who doesn't belong in their village, so maybe... I wanted to prove myself. To show them I'm on their side."

"There are no more sides when you are dead, husband! This foolish quest of yours to be accepted has only led to more death and possibly retaliation from the Howling Crags, when you and I both know who the real enemy is. You are not to engage with the Nightbrothers anymore, and if you do, I will not punish you, I will punish them!"

The sound of the door opening makes Cal jump in place, interrupting their heated argument.

"I apologize for the interruption, Mother. A Howling Crag clan member has already arrived and is waiting for you, as per your request," Valeria inches closer, until she is next to him.

"Very well. I have to leave for now, husband, and defuse the tensions you have so foolishly caused between our clans. As punishment for your transgression, you will be confided to you home for ten days. If you dare to leave, you will be punished severely!"

Cal's ears ring with shame as Merrin storms out of the room with a frustrated sigh. He can feel his cheeks burning while his throat dries, an uncomfortable feeling washing all over him. Valeria is still present by his side, and he wonders what condescending remark she will make, as she is without a doubt pleased by Merrin's rageful outburst.

He can't blame her thought and Cal once again regrets his actions. If only he had tried to push further and convince Kylen of abandoning this suicide mission, some of the Nightbrothers downed by the Howling Crags could still be alive now. Deep down, it takes a lot of courage to admit he also wanted to prove himself, to show the Nightbothers he's capable of defending himself and even maybe worthy of being in their clan.

Despite the silence in the room after the doors slam shut, he can somehow feel Valeria's burning stare on him. She steps closer until she is right in front of him, a light scoff resounding inside the tall room.

"And here I was thinking I would be the one to lead you to your downfall. Who could have imagined that out of all people, you would be your own worst enemy..." her words hang in the air with a sense of superiority, meant to offend.

"I do sincerely hope this has been an enlightening experience for you, as you will surely return to your cell in not time," she laughs ironically again, now incredibly close to him.

"Okay, so I made a big mistake. At least I have the guts to admit when I'm wrong," Cal replies in a steady voice, determined to keep his ground.

"How arrogant of you to presume I was ever wrong about anything. The Mother has lost all of her poorly placed trust in you, and now you will be cast aside, to be forgotten until you die."

"I guess we'll see about that," Cal's voice echoes loudly into the room, a deep frown now etched on his face.

"Do not continue to lie to yourself, this is battle you have already lost," Valeria is now incredibly close to him, her breath warm on his skin while she reaches out and grabs him roughly by his left arm. Cal feels surprised at her unexpected proximity, as she has never dared to come so close to him, ever. He can feel the hatred in her tight grasp as she leans forward and whispers into his ear.

"As soon as you are placed exactly where you belong, you will serve the only purpose you have been brought here to do, and you will serve it without any protest... lest you wish to be held down and taken forcefully."

"...W-what?" Cal furrows his eyebrows as the harsh grip on his arm causes his fingers to shake. There is a tight knot forming in his throat, and he remains quiet, shocked by her words while the Nightsister begins to threaten again.

"Did you really believe that you were brought here to be solely used by our Mother? Even a blind man as yourself must see the bigger picture."

"Get you hands of me, witch!" Cal yells while he yanks his arm away from her grasps. He backs away until he meets the cold stone wall behind him as Valeria inches towards him again, now very close.

"The only one who gets to decide what happens with me is Merrin, not you! I'm not afraid of you," he ads in a brave voice as he straightens his back, preparing himself for whatever she has in mind to do next.

"You should be," Valeria's left hand suddenly wraps tight around his neck while she grabs his arm again with her other one, growling in his ear. The slim fingers begin to squeeze while a strange sensation washes over him, and his knees begin to shake.

He tries to fight it, to reach out through the Force and break her incredibly tight grip while the back of his head hits the stone wall behind him, making him dizzy. Valeria's doing something to his body, weakening his senses with her magick, he realizes while he struggles to breathe and free himself from her grasp.

"Let...me...go..." he speaks in a weak voice, struggling to release each word for his mouth while the grip around his neck grows even tighter, Valeria's furious breath now echoing inside the room.

"Not until you heed my words. This little game you played with our Mother has ended. It is time for you to provide for this clan without any more delays. Fey has already expressed her desire to mate with you, and tonight you will visit her chambers!"

"No! Kriff you!" Cal screams in a choked, ragged breath, the sound painful and raspy, while Valeria maintains her fingers in an iron grip, refusing to let go.

He is rewarded with another hard push, the back of his head colliding again on the cold stone wall. His senses begin to dull incredibly, a feeling of weakness traveling all over his body while he feels wetness at the back of his head. There is a violent tremor traveling all across his body, the severe grip around his neck finally loosening. Valeria lets go of him with another hard push, his lungs filling with air suddenly as he releases a loud, painful cough.

"Fey will be waiting for you tonight. If you do not show up, you will be punished severely for your lack of compliance. Have I made myself understood, little man?"

Cal doesn't reply, still trying to calm his body while he reaches a shaky hand and begins to feel the back of his head. The dampness is still there, and he realizes he's bleeding, the wound stinging hard as soon as he touches it. He refuses to reply to her, to give her the satisfaction of success.

A frustrated growl and the furious click of heels while the sound of a door opening and closing indicates she has already stormed out of the room, no doubt unhappy with his lack of response. Cal remains in his spot for a moment, still reeling from shock. He tries to clear his mind and stop the involuntary shaking in his legs, but the more he thinks about what happened, the less he can calm himself.

Valeria's magick is strong, and he feels he barely got a taste of her true power. The proposition she made was also refusing to leave his mind, but his decision was already made. Merrin had promised him that she would keep him safe, remembering their deal before their union. Fey will have to remain disappointed tonight, as he has no intention or desire of sleeping with her. Whatever punishment Valeria had in mind for him, he was determined to endure it.

Chapter Text

Merrin sits at the top of the temple, her weary eyes overlooking the entire valley. The sun sets, bathing the scenery into a warm, orange light, and she can't help but compare the color to Cal's fiery locks. It's both heartwarming and bitter to think about him right now, knowing he's confined to his quarters, serving a sentence he doesn't deserve.

But Merrin needs to keep peace inside her clan above all, despite her burning needs. Her sisters need to be reminded that her status shouldn't be overrun, even by those she holds dear, and that after all, she is their Mother, sworn to lead and protect them.

Kylen had stepped over her boundaries and led the Nightbrothers to their deaths. This will not stand, and she makes a mental note to punish him accordingly the next time he decides to play with her authority and deprive her of her beloved husband.

Merrin smiles to herself, thinking about Cal again. It's not fair that she misses him, but ten days is nothing compared to the eternity they will spend together once she sees him again, the thought filling her with a strange sense of excitement.

Cal's passion for holo-books was a welcoming surprise, and she's already made a small list of a few stories she wants to read to him, starting with the history of Dathomir. The tales of the clans are fascinating, and she wagers he'll be more than thrilled to hear it from her.

A pair of footsteps makes her straighten her back, Lorys now sitting quietly beside her. "What troubles you, Mother? Is it your husband?" she leans closer, observing Merrin's mournful stare.

Merrin sighs, her eyes fixed on the horizon, the orange glow slowly fading away. "Do not concern yourself with my well-being, Lorys. I am fine."

"Apologies for being so blunt, Mother... but you look terrible," she replies with light amusement in her tone.

"Is it that obvious?" Merrin raises her eyebrows, eyes still cast ahead. She finally turns to face her sister, her eyes bearing immense longing.

Lorys simply nods, a kind smile appearing on her lips. "If it is matters of the soul that you wish to discuss... I am all ears."

Merrin ponders the proposition for a moment. Lorys is Valeria's better half, the rational voice inside her mind that keeps her grounded. But she is also a Nightsister, a valued member of her clan, and above all, her friend. Confiding into her seems like the right thing to do, and Merrin yearns to finally let out her feelings, to speak to someone besides Isea, who is also willing to listen.

"I am conflicted over my actions..." her voice trails off, ashamed and riddled with guilt. "I do not wish to alienate the man who I will spend my entire life with, but at the same time, I must keep this clan together, away from disputes. I do not know what to do next..."

"What do your hearts tell you, Mother?" Lorys inches closer.

"My hearts?" Merrin stares back, confused. "Sentiments should not be the deciding factor as a leader. Only logic and reason can guide a successful leader."

"You cannot possibly believe that," Lorys retorts, wide-eyed. "The Mother that I know has always led through peace, and every decision came from here," she points toward one of her hearts, making it skip a beat.

"Nonsense!" Merrin scoffs, crossing her arms defensively.

"Then why did you allow the Jedi to live, Merrin?"

Hearing her name so clearly from a sister who only addresses her as Mother makes Merrin freeze. Lorys' eyes are filled with hope, and her question resounds around her, knowing well the answer to it. He's not a Jedi, she remarks amusingly in her mind, understanding the difference, but knowing she can't correct it anymore.

She felt compassion for Cal the moment she laid her eyes on him, no matter how hard she tries to deny it. She now feels love and affection for him, with his mere absence causing her to linger like a ghost through the temple's halls, searching for a purpose.

Even as the conflict between them and the Howling Crag requires resolve, all she can think of is him and his charming smile, the emerald green in his eyes only compared to the burning flames of her magick.

"Valeria thinks I should rid the clan of him for good. She does not agree with my decision to have him here," Merrin diverts the subject, shoulders tense, carefully observing Lorys' expression as it shifts to a more contemplative one.

"Valeria is not the leader of this clan. You are," she replies in a steady voice. "And your decision is final. She would be a prudent woman to remember that."

"It is curious that you do not share her opinions," Merrin relaxes a bit, taking a deep breath.

"I am my own woman, above all else, Mother, as are you. None shall tell us how to act or how we should live our lives but ourselves. Our fates are written in the stars, and only the gods may change them."

A warm smile graces Merrin's lips as she stares at Lorys. "Valeria is indeed lucky to have you by her side...Thank you for easing my mind in these troubling times," she wraps her arm around her delicately, embracing her into a gentle hug.

"Always, Mother. Wherever you guide us, we will follow." Lorys replies, returning the hug as both women remain silent for the rest of the evening, admiring the stars glimmering above them.

The sun's rays barely stretch over Dathomir, but Merrin is awake, wandering the outskirts of the main temple all alone. The conversation she had with Lorys the other night still lingers in her mind, teasing her to overrule her own decision and at the very least allow Cal to interact with the other Nightbrothers.

She was mad at him at that time for lying, but the more she thinks about it, the more she wagers she would have done the exact same thing. She also understands it must be terribly hard for him to exchange the life of a peaceful monk for the harsh and unpredictable customs of the Nightbrothers so abruptly.

It's only been a few weeks since Cal was brought here, forced into a life he probably never imagined for himself. Merrin scoffs, unable to help but compare her own experiences with his. Being thrown at such a young age into leadership was without a doubt a rash decision the remaining Nightsisters made, all afraid of the consequences of leading a clan all by themselves.

And Merrin tried; she really did, to maintain peace above all. Sure, conflict is inevitable given the nature of their traditions and customs, but so far, she feels proud of avoiding more unnecessary bloodshed, up until this point.

The fallen Nightbrothers were already one with the Force, their souls now dancing in the sky with the gods. Merrin feels a pang of bitterness in her chest, remembering once again Kylen's actions. The more she walks towards the Nightbrother village, the more she feels her bitterness turn into resentment, remembering how he defied her more than once, even on her own wedding night.

To choose a mate that was already spoken for, and one that is a leader above all, is unheard of, the punishment ranging from eternal imprisonment to swift death. All the Nightbrothers know this, and so far she has managed to keep them under control up until... Kylen rebelled. Twice.

Keeping a calm and reasonable state of mind was becoming difficult for her when faced with such pure defiance, and Merrin sometimes wishes she never accepted this burden in the first place. Valeria, in theory, is a much better-suited leader, even if she'll never say such things out loud, with her ruthless and cold demeanor getting the job done in no time.

But if Merrin had to pick one that would replace her, if, say, she somehow had a choice in the matter, she would pick Isea every time. The girl is young and naive, but there is a burning fire behind those eyes, and Merrin knows she would follow in her footsteps if given the opportunity, leading through peace rather than chaos and fear. Valeria would only doom the clan further with her own fears and insatiable bloodlust until the only thing left standing in her wake would be ash.

Her thoughts consume her, and she barely realizes how far she's been wandering until the familiar entrance to the Nightbrother village now stands in her way, calling to her. The gate is closed, and there is small chatter that can be heard from inside, with the brothers no doubt already awake and attending to their duties.

The attack on the Howling Crags, and what followed after has now left them without a purpose, most of them sitting around as she dares to enter silently. A few frightened stares and then their immediate departure can only confirm that yes, the Nightbrothers have finally begun to fear her again, though if Merrin considers this a good thing, she has no clue.

Better to be feared than loved, echoes in her mind, unsure if it's her own words or if Valeria's cruel demeanor has somehow rubbed off on her without realizing it. The village is quiet as he advances, her eyes wandering to the small houses. There are a few things that need to be reconditioned, like the well in the middle of the village that seems to have been through hell and back.

Merrin makes a mental note to help the best she can, wondering if all this resentment towards her really comes from the fact that only six Nightsisters occupy a rather gigantic temple while the Nightbrother village can barely contain their growing numbers. So far only a few babes have been brought into the world since she became leader, courtesy of both Kora and Fey, all males.

Perhaps this was their fate all along, for the Nightsisters to perish, their numbers stagnating while the Nightbrothers thrive. Which brings her to her next burning question—when she and Cal do eventually consummate their marriage, and she does give birth to a child, how will she proceed further?

Her promise to allow Cal to visit is written in stone, and she'll do everything in her power to honor it. But the more she thinks about it, the more frustrated she becomes with all these traditions that, truth be told, make no sense to her. Why live separately when there's so much more to be gained from all of them being in one place? She understands the obvious reason, but for once...she wishes to be more defiant, to bend the rules and live freely.

Cal's home is only a few steps away. It's early in the morning, and he's probably sleeping soundly, serving his unjust punishment like the honorable man that he is. Merrin takes a nervous breath, inching closer to the door. Every fiber in her being screams at her to knock on it, to make her presence heard, and—

No. She has to keep a strong and reasonable judgment despite her hearts jumping in her chest, begging to see his adorable face. Cal is confined to his quarters for a worthless reason, she reminds herself bitterly, her fingers gently trailing over the wooden door, balling into a soft fist as soon as she manages to pry them away.

Merrin takes a deep breath, closing her eyes and opening them again. The sound of Orin's voice startles her, making her jump in her place. She turns to face him, eyes wide, barely containing her emotions.

"Mother? To what do we owe this early visit?" Orin's head tilts, glaring at her confused and a bit worried.

"It is nothing serious," she declares, masking her anxiousness with her dry voice. "I have come to assess the village in case it requires repairs. I have noticed the well is in a deplorable condition..."

"It is, Mother. The younger Nightbrothers do not care to maintain their surroundings, only preoccupying themselves with the thought of battle," Orin sighs, disappointed. "They have taken to exercising their strength on it, thus damaging it in little time."

"Perhaps we need to consider expanding the borders of the village...to allow them a bit more freedom. I have never noticed how small the village truly is," Merrin replies, her eyes traveling over the entire village. He eyes settle on Orin, who gives her a reassuring smile, and he leans to the side, taking note of her location.

"He has taken your punishment incredibly seriously... I have not seen or spoken to him since—"

"As he should," Merrin interrupts him, her voice sounding far harsher than she meant, while she raises one hand in front of her. "Let this be a lesson to all that while I may be inclined to forgive, there are some matters that cannot be allowed to stand."

"Of course, Mother!" Orin bows respectfully in front of her. "I only hope that this failed coup might temper the untrained minds that still seek to avenge the death of their brother. From what I understand, the Howling Crags were not involved in his untimely demise…"

The Mother narrows her eyes, staring at Orin with a hint of suspicion in her heart. Only she and Cal know the real cause of Ayen's death, unless her husband decided to foolishly allow another soul to be aware of his psychometry.

"And how exactly are you so certain that the Crags have no blame in this entire ordeal?"

"Your husband," Orin leans closer, carefully lowering his voice, "he warned the rest of the Nightbrothers of their mistake. He told me as well but did not reveal the real culprit, only that he knew and that we would be marching into our own deaths if we followed Kylen."

Merrin remains silent, carefully observing Orin's behavior as he continues, whispering into her.

"I suppose your husband was right after all, though how he knew...I have no clue. Perhaps it was the Force guiding his reason that led him to speak such words. Nevertheless, I believe he was correct."

"Perhaps he was...until then I am the one who has to suffer the consequences of his actions. The Howling Crags are not known for their peaceful treaties, so I must handle this carefully. The well will be fixed by the end on the day, Orin. You have my word."

Merrin turns to leave before he can spot the deceit in her stare. Orin is wise and also incredibly attentive, having known her for many years. Now is not the time to show weakness, and she departs the village, incredibly disappointed and with two heavy hearts.

Three days had already passed since the unfortunate incident with the Howling Crags. The punishment given by Merrin at the time didn't seem so bad, but the more time passes, the more trapped he feels.

"It's only ten days..." he mutters under his breath, wondering how long it's going to take to adjust to the quietness again. When he arrived back to his home that day, Orin made sure to tend to his wound before curiously asking what happened. He didn't explain, giving a vague response instead, but as soon as Cal revealed his punishment, Orin sighed.

"I'm not allowed to speak to you anymore," Cal remembers telling him with such crushing disappointment in his voice.

"The Mother gives and the Mother takes away. Do not despair, Cal. Perhaps it is not a permanent decision."

"She seemed pretty upset. I don't think she'll change her mind..."

"Give her some time. Until then, I will leave you alone to serve your sentence quietly."

The memory fills Cal with sadness as he lays in his bed, unable to rest. For the past three days all he did was eat and meditate, remembering once again how much he hated silence. He jumps from his bed and begins his daily ritual, mediating peacefully until his mind is crystal clear.

Merrin's rageful voice keeps him alert, wondering if he'll ever make peace with her again. The Nightsisters of Dathomir seem far less forgiving than the rest, and once again, he blames himself for everything that's happened so far. He tries to think about something else and not fall into despair, but being confided in such a small space gives him little to do but to think.

"There are far worse fates than this," he speaks, acknowledging that while this may be true, there are also much better ones. A deep frown now rests on his face, keeping him from concentrating. His mind wanders toward his friends, the monks, and regret fills him instantly.

Cal remembers how much trouble he used to cause them after he was brought on Jedha, and he regrets not being a more reserved child. Yet the monks never punished him for his miscevous behavior, giving him unconditional love while he also returned it in his own way.

He also can't shake the feeling of something bad just waiting to happen. Valeria's words hang in the air, and he feels wary the more time passes. Of course he failed to reach Fey's chambers, with him already serving his sentence, and he wonders if she'll make good on her promise.

He barely managed to sleep that night, keeping himself awake and alert. But the punishment never came, and now, three days later, he wonders if it was just an empty threat. Cal reasons Valeria wouldn't dare to cross Merrin's judgment, and she is probably plotting something else while she waits for his sentence to end.

So he takes a deep breath while he fiddles with the edges of the golden bracelet Merrin gave him. He slips it on his wrist, a longing smile flashing on his lips while he concentrates, catapulting himself into the same echo he has seen countless times. But every time he sees it, he can't stop, replaying the memory again and again, like listening to a favorite holobook or spending time with a dear friend.

The echo helps clear his mind, and for the first time in three days, he manages to meditate peacefully for hours, the beautiful bracelet still wrapped around his wrist.

After a long mediating session and a warm meal, Cal's eyelids begin to flutter, the inviting sensation of sleep traveling across his entire body. He feels tired, despite not doing anything all day, and he slides under the covers with a deep yawn, surprising even himself with how tired he feels.

The stew he was brought to eat an hour ago was so delicious, and he blames the food for his weary state, the pillow under his head feeling incredibly soft. It doesn't take long for him to fall asleep, his dreams leading him to peaceful meadows and silver locks, her big brown eyes captivating his heart unlike any other.

Someone is hauling him to his feet, rough hands wrapped around his shoulders, while Cal's mind still lingers on that beautiful dream. He feels confused for a second until he tries to speak, only to find a dirty rag tight around his mouth. He suddenly bites into the material with his teeth as a sharp stinging pain invades his stomach, making his knees weak.

Pure adrenaline invades every muscle in his body as he realizes what's happening, with strong hands grasping him from behind, preventing him to retaliate. He trashes desperately until he can feel himself free, and without thinking too much, he releases a Force push in front of him.

Whoever is trying to attack him again flies across the room with a frustrated growl while another one tries to hit him with a sharp weapon. Cal dodges to the side, the small room limiting his options as he trips into a wooden crate. He reaches out and rips the dirty rag from his mouth as he is grabbed again from behind and slammed hard to the ground.

"Do not let him use the Force!" a loud voice screams, and Cal recognizes the unmistakable voice of a Nigthbrother speaking. He reaches out again through the Force, realizing there are three inside the room, all determined to fight him.

"Get off me!" Cal warns as he headbutts the man currently holding him and managing to break free again. He jumps to his feet, dizzy from the hard tumble he took, but he powers on as he Force pushes again, this time even harder.

The whole room shakes as everything around him files, and he hears the attackers stumble through the room, groaning in pain. His head hurts, the dizziness refusing to leave while he slowly realizes why he felt so sleepy in the first place. Something was definitely put in his food to make him docile while the Nightbrothers attacked like cowards. He feels a sudden wave of anger coursing through his body, fueling his powers like never before.

With his hand stretched, he reaches out until he finds one of the attackers and begins to lift him in the air. He feels every fiber in his body, strong as he begins to compress, the Nightbrother screaming in agony from the pressure. Cal feels strange for a moment, his hand shaking while he continues to squeeze with hatred, determined to harm.

A sudden blow to the back of his head interrupts him, and he drops the man to the ground. There are violent hands all over his body as a rope is secured firmly around his neck, slowly squeezing the life out of him. The dirty cloth is placed again in his mouth while he trashes and screams, trying to break free.

Another thick rope now binds his wrist in front of him tightly, followed by a hard punch to his left side. Cal tries to keep his composure as more blows are delivered to his legs, his chest, and eventually to his face. He can feel the left side of his face numb while his entire body aches.

The Nightbrothers are as silent as they are cruel, hitting him from all sides while the rope around his neck begins to burn. Cal feels his entire body on fire, the burning pain rendering him unable to move or even try to scream. No use doing that, he remembers the rag around his lips, preventing him from getting help.

"Hang him up!" one of them declares in a satisfied voice.

With the end of his life approaching fast, Cal tries to think of a better life he could have lived. A life where every Force-user or Jedi was free to do as they pleased, with no borders or restrictions from authoritative orders claiming they want peace. A life filled with serenity and happiness instead of suffering and pain...

He soon finds out that it's not the quick release of death that awaits him, but a slow and painful process instead. His arms feel like they're on fire as one of his attackers raises them above his head and ties them to the wooden post at the middle of his home.

The wool still feels harsh around his fingers while his feet barely manage to touch the ground, the stretched position making every muscle in his body hurt tremendously. A morbid silence fills the room, with only his ragged, pained breaths still audible through the makeshift gag.

Before he even has time to react, he feels the cold air inside the room as his tunic is ripped, leaving his back completely bare. Cal flinches hard, a feeling of dread mixed with horror washing over him. He knows what's about to happen, has seen it many times in distant echoes, but nothing can prepare him for the actual stinging pain as the first crack of the whip opens his skin forcefully.

Another snap of the whip follows almost immediately, his teeth biting in the rag so hard he can feel the taste of dirt mixed with iron on his tongue. He tries to wiggle his arms and somehow to break free, only to find himself so tired he can't even move. So he begins moving his head left and right to feel his surroundings better.

A grave mistake on his part, he realizes as he suddenly screams louder in the rag. The sharp sting of a freshly made wound materializes on the right side of his head, cutting from the base of his neck all the way under his jaw. Cal's entire body begins to shake violently, the pain now completely unbearable as yet another strike hits his back, his trousers slowly beginning to dampen with blood.

Pain and agony are the only things Cal can muster to feel right now as he is being tortured mercilessly, wondering if this was Valeria's response for disobeying her orders or if Merrin simply got tired of waiting. It can't be her, he reasons with himself while he still can, his mind clouded by the unbearable pain.

His hearing is dulled, but he thinks he can recognize the sound of faint laughter coming from the other men, mocking him. He lost track of how many hits he already endured, the pain so hot and unbearable that he wishes it actually killed him.

A choked sob escapes his mouth as an involuntary tear traces down his right cheek, and Cal hates himself for crying. He does not want to give them the satisfaction of seeing him break down and surrender to the torture, but his body betrays him again while his lips eventually begin to quiver, and he fights the sting of tears forming in his eyes, desperately trying to break free.

Between ragged breaths and exhaustion setting in his pained muscles, a desperate idea creeps inside his mind—a hopeful salvation. He remembers the bracelet is still wrapped around his wrist, a constant memory of the nicer times he spent with Merrin. If he somehow manages to reach it with his fingers, the pain will eventually fade away. He doesn't know if this will even work, but as the Nightbrother strikes again, he feels like he has no other choice.

Shaky fingers desperately search for the object, hidden under the tight rope, the attackers inside the room oblivious to his intentions. It feels as if the whole world is lifted from his shoulders as soon as he feels the familiar sensation of metal. Despite the burning pain traveling all across his body, Cal tries to concentrate on the memory. There is a small pause, with the attacker's arm no doubt tired from brutalizing him for minutes.

Please...please...he begs inside his mind, the pain breaking his concentration while his legs begin to shake, knowing well he'll not be spared until he dies. Faint whispers of an echo linger on his fingertips, and he concentrates harder until he begins to feel the liberating pull of the Force, catapulting his mind into the echo while his body slumps instantly.

Chapter Text

The cold sands of Jedha greeted both Jedi Master Jaro Tapal and a young Cal Kestis, the horizon stretched with sand as far as the eye could see. The day barely begun, but the sun already shone brightly in the sky, illuminating the sands with a warm glow, but the cold persisted as they advanced forward.

Jaro's shuttle was stationed behind, already a small dot in he distance as they finally reached the monastery, its tall gate waiting for them. A young monk emerged from behind shortly after, his eyes kind, his head shaved as two small tattoos resided under his eyes, marking him as a follower of that particular monastery.

"Welcome, Master Tapal!" he stretched his hand as an invitation as a kind smile formed on his lips. "What brings you on this fine day to our humble home?" his eyes were set on the shy youngling by his side, who stared at the ground with an unfocused gaze.

"Volis, my friend!" Jaro stepped closer, embracing the man into a warm hug. "I have with me someone I think you'll be delighted to meet!" he separated their embrace, gesturing toward the small redhead.

"A youngling?" Volis raised his eyebrow in curiosity, already kneeling to face the child. "And what is your name, oh, special one?" he declared in an amused tone, watching Cal shift his gaze up font, eyes still lost in the void.

"I'm Cal..." the boy answered in a shy voice, refusing to elaborate further.

"Not one for many words, I see," Volis rose to his feet, gesturing for Jaro to come closer. "How long has the boy been blind?"

"Not long. I found him on Soris after a band of raiders killed his entire family and burned their village to the ground," Jaro replied in a mournful voice. "Only one of his neighbors survived, but she would not take him. I wouldn't have let her nevertheless..."

"How so?" the young monk tilted his head, taking a small peek at the boy.

"Cal is special in more ways than one. I felt it as soon as I took him by my side," Jaro leaned closer, his expression incredibly serious. "The boy is Force sensitive; that much I can already tell, but there is also something else, something unusual that I have not sensed in a long time."

"You always make everything sound so serious, Jaro," Volis scoffed while crossing his arms in amusement. "What is it?"

"Have you ever heard of psychometry?" Jaro's eyes traveled for a second over to Cal, then back to Volis.

"I may have read about it, but that talent is so rare that only a few select Jedi Masters have been blessed with it. Come to think of it, there was one Jedi Master who I do believe shared—

"Yes, Master Vos," Jaro interrupted him before he could finish his sentence. "I do not know where Quinlan is stationed at the moment, so my next best choice is to leave the boy here, in your very capable hands."

"But he is too young to be initiated—"

"I know you'll figure someting out," Jaro interrupted again, a worried look etched on his features. "The Jedi Council refused to induct him into the Order, but I cannot abandon him. He must be taught in the ways of the Force indirectly, before his power grows and overwhelms him."

"Have the visions started already?" Volis asked, deeply concerned as well.

"They have..." Jaro wraps a gentle hand around Cal's shoulder.

The young boy sighed deeply, seemingly afraid to even step closer as Jaro guided him forward inside the monastery. Beautiful halls greeted them, as a peaceful silence enveloped the main chamber, the rest of the monks already gathered around, incredibly curious about their new guest.

Volis knelt down, reaching for Cal's left hand until it rested firmly in his own. Gentle eyes trailed over the young boy, wondering how many horrors these warm green eyes witnessed before being taken from him so abruptly.

"Do you know where you are, Cal?" he asked in a gentle tone.

Cal tilted his head, listening to the young monk's words carefully. He shifted his head to the left and right, eventually facing Volis again with a confused look and shaking his head.

"You are on Jedha, where it is said that the pinnacle of the living Force resides," Volis replied quickly. "And now, you are standing inside one of the many monasteries that have been built here, centuries ago, to help focus the Force that flows all around us."

"I feel...cold," Cal replied, prompting Volis to chuckle softly.

"Ah, of course...everyone hates the cold," Volis stated, causing the older monks to laugh weakly. "But you will get used to it in time."

Cal's expression shifted from neutral to a more reserved one, evidently contemplating Volis' words. Jaro dared to step closer, placing a tender hand on his shoulder, trying to comfort him.

"You're leaving me here all alone..." Cal said in a broken voice, defeated and cold.

"I cannot stay here, Cal. My duty calls to me, "Jaro kneeled to the ground, facing the boy with a regretful stare. "But you won't be alone. Volis is an incredible man, and there is no one better fit in this galaxy to take care of you right now."

There was a silent tremor lingering in Cal's body, his shoulders tense as he listened to Jaro's words but did not respond. There was obviously the fear of the unknown, but also something else: something Jaro understood could not be mended so easily. The boy needed someone to cling to, a parental figure to guide him as he made the first step into a completely different life, and once again, Jaro blamed he Jedi Council for denying his only request.

Cal also needed guidance in he ways of the Force more than ever, and the monks would do just fine, but some things...some things needed his personal presence. So he made a vow to visit the boy as often as he could, without reporting his visits to the Jedi Council.

Jaro's felt hand rested comfortingly on Cal's shoulder, this tone incredibly sincere, "I promise you, Cal Kestis, that you will never feel alone again. You have my word."

Cal's wary stare shifted to a more understanding one, nodding quietly. Jaro sensed the boy's final wish as he pulled him into a warm hug, suddenly realizing how attached he was to him. He pulled away quickly before he found himself unable to leave, his heart heavy but somewhat content. Cal would be safe here, living with the monks as one of them, and Jaro had no doubt in his mind that when he grows old enough, he'll prove to the Jedi Council just how wrong they were to doubt him.

Being thirteen was a challenge in its own right, but Cal felt as if his entire world came crumbling down, literally, as he felt the ground shift under his feet, sending him spiraling into what he could only assume was a deep crevice.

Going outside the monastery walls without supervision was strictly forbidden; Cal remembered the stern lesson he received the last time he tried to do it. But, as his left leg began to burn and sting in pain, he understood why they did it. The monks cared for him deeply, and even if he hated being coddled by them, Cal knew they didn't mean any harm.

But just for once, he wanted to explore the outskirts by himself, to feel the cold sand under his feet and maybe even get familiarized with the nearby territory. Ever since he was brought here, he was taught a simple rule—do not disobey your elders. And Cal tried, he really did, to be obedient and listen to their lectures, but sometimes they proved a bit...boring.

He was already accustomed to their task of keeping the history intact, and so far, his psychometry was a great help, reaching into the past to uncover and resolve mysteries that have eluded them for centuries.

Volis called him their eyes into the past, and Cal considered that a pretty fitting name considering the nature of his power. He still failed to understand why exactly him, why the Force chose to grant him this incredible gift, but he wagered these matters were far beyond his understanding.

A painful cry echoed into the crevice as Cal tried to move his leg, palpating the swollen shin with trembling fingers. As soon as he touched it, he screamed louder, the injury far more severe than he initially thought.

He knew he was somewhere close to the monastery, but where exactly, he had no idea. The Force flowed around him as he reached out, desperate for help, the pain in his leg growing stronger with each passing second.

But as time began to pass, with the pain almost unbearable, Cal began to feel the burning regret inside his chest for not listening to his friends. He could have stayed in his room for once, his lips quivering softly as tears began to form at the edges of his eyes, eventually trailing his cheeks.

The monks had no idea where he was, and once again Cal found himself suffering all alone. Jaro promised him that he would be safe here, and he should have listened to Volis and stayed inside just like he was told.

Trying to move only made the pain worse, so Cal stayed in the same spot, his breath shallow and steady as he tried to think of a way to survive. He must be missing for a few hours, with the sun's rays warming the crevice, indicating that there was still light outside.

Before utter despair could overwhelm him, he heard a distant voice calling out his name. By the sound of the voice, Volis was outside, searching for him, and Cal screamed as loud as he could, hoping to make himself heard.

And surely enough, after screaming until his face felt hot and his throat began hurting, he could hear a pair of strong feet running towards his location, both the desperation and relief in Volis' voice making him more ashamed than ever.

"Cal! What happened?" Volis knelt by his side, his rough hands already assessing the damage he took.

"I...fell," Cal responded in a shaky voice, surprising even himself with how weak he sounded.

"Foolish child! Didn't I tell you not to wander outside by yourself!" Volis replied in a stern voice, his hands resting on the injured leg carefully.

"I'm sorry, I—" Cal replied with more shame, lowering his head and hissing in pain as soon as Volis tried to raise his leg. "Ugh! It hurts!"

"I believe the bone might be broken," Volis added in a worried tone, shifting around Cal, agitated. "Don't try to move."

Cal nodded, feeling the Force shift around him, Volis' presence through the Force fluctuating as the pain grew stronger, messing with his senses. The monk raised himself fast from his side, the rhythm in his step indicating he was seriously agitated.

"I don't see anything that can help us here," he returned to Cal's side, sliding his hands under him and raising him effortlessly in his arms. "Don't worry, we have enough bacta gel back home to hopefully heal it in no time."

Cal couldn't see it, but he was sure there was a gentle smile formed on his friend's lips, understanding that while he might be upset, there was nothing he could do with anger alone. Being kind and compassionate was a trademark for all the monks, and with Volis, it was no different.

"I'm really sorry, Volis...I—"

"Shh, it's alright," he replied in a calm tone, the resentment gone instantly. "You really need to be more careful, Cal, and you know I'm not saying this just to teach you a lesson... We all care about you, more than you think."

"I know," Cal replied in a defeated voice, "I just... I wanted to get out of the monastery for once. I didn't mean to hurt myself so badly."

"Why didn't you ask? I would have been more than happy to guide you around the monastery."

"I—" Cal sighed, the pain in his leg preventing him from speaking properly. "I wanted to do it by myself. You already have so much work to do, and I wanted to prove that I can handle myself."

The silence that followed only made Cal feel even more anxious about whatever Volis might respond. The monk sighed with a hint of exasperation in his voice, the sound of his footsteps being the only thing resounding around them.

"You're mad at me."

"I'm not mad," Volis finally responded, his tone even. "I am disappointed Cal Kestis. There is a difference."

"That's even worse!" Cal cried out, knowing well that the monks could never stay mad at him, no matter how many times he continued to disappoint them, and Cal suddenly felt disappointed in himself as well.

"When will this constant desire to prove yourself cease...I already told you you're the best thing that's happened to this place in ages," Volis spoke with sincerity, making Cal incredibly wary of his own presence.

"I don't want to be weak..." Cal declared in a barely audible voice. Volis scoffed audibly as soon as he heard it, stopping in his tracks.

"Why would you think that? Is it because you are blind?"

Cal pondered his answer for a short time before answering. It was true that ever since he arrived here, no one even dared to consider him anything else but their equal, and sometimes he felt like he truly belonged.

But there were other times when he felt more alone than ever, and his mind would constantly remind him that some things could not be reclaimed, even if he tried really hard. It was the one thing that set him apart from the rest, despite their constant assurance that he was one of their own.

"Maybe..." he decided on his final answer, unsure if it was the right one.

"Then you're not as smart as I thought you were...but something tells me that's not the real reason. Even now you're trying to put on a brave face, despite the pain in your leg," Volis sighed deeply and began to walk again with cal in his arms. "It's okay to show fear, Cal. No one will judge you if you do."

"But Master Jaro Tapal said that emotions like fear and attachment could lead to the dark side if left unchecked."

"The Jedi have simple rules that they must follow," Volis entered the monastery with Cal tight in his arms, walking slowly, "and while we serve the Jedi and their Order, keep in mind that we are not like them. To us, fear is just a simple emotion that makes us who we are, and it's equally as important as bravery or affection. It reminds us that while now we might live in peace, our future is uncertain and that we must face whatever the Force has in store for us, whether it's good or bad."

"I was afraid that I was going to die," Cal finally admitted, cheeks burning hot with embarrassment and disappointment.

"Good," Volis answered with a hint of amusement in his voice.

"How is that any good?" Cal replied with confusion, shaking his head as Volis placed him on his bed, already preparing a bacta patch for his leg.

"Fearing death means that you obviously want to live. That you still have so much to do in this life and are willing to fight for it. You are still young, but in time you'll learn to appreciate these emotions, these feelings that connect us to the Force, and eventually give meaning to our lives."

"You always sound so...hopeful," Cal lay in his bed, the bacta patch already soothing his pain as he contemplated the statement. "Thank you for taking care of me. I'm really glad you're my friend, Volis."

"As am I, Cal. As am I."

Chapter Text

Merrin's entire body is surrounded by a feeling of melancholy like no other. She continues to stare at the hologram in front of her, completely lost in thought, while a voice speaks near her. Valeria or Isea, she does not know which one, her mind still fixed on one thing.

Four days had passed since she last saw Cal, and the more time passes, the more she begins to regret her decision. Heated by his actions and under pressure from the entire clan to prove her worth, she lashed out and punished an innocent man, knowing very well Kylen was the one responsible for the deaths of his brothers.

Ten days was not a long time, and she decides as soon as it's over to invite him again to one of her reading sessions. That is, if he still wants to come, with his ego no doubt hurt by her actions. Still, she reasons it is better this way, and her attention is now back to her council, the remaining five Nightsisters surrounding the circular table.

"The Howling Crags have demanded reparations for the casualties they have suffered, but it seems they do not want to retaliate further. How do we proceed, Mother?" Valeria speaks in a calm voice, pointing on the holomap toward their rival clan.

"I will send Fey and Lorys with a substantial amount of gold as compensation for their losses, as well as our sincere apologies for attacking their clan," she nods towards her sisters, who acknowledge her statement and are already preparing to leave.

"What about the Empire? Do we have any more news about their departure?" she eyes Valeria with a suspicious glare. Everyone inside the room was currently a suspect, an informant working with the enemy.

"The refinery they have built on Laseel brings more ships every day, but our planet seems to be quite safe from their routes. Our scouts have found no more soldiers on the surface. It seems they are indeed gone," Valeria replies in a steady voice.

"Good. I am pleased to hear such news. The less we interact with them or any outsiders, the better. All we need to focus right now on is rebuilding our clan."

"Speaking of rebuilding, what other news do you have for us, Mother? Are you with child?" Isea interrupts from the side with a playful grin.

Merrin gives her a cheeky smile, remembering her intimate session with Cal inside the library. The younger Nightsister returns the knowing smile, lowering her head.

"Not yet, Isea. There have been attempts, but so far, nothing has changed. I will inform you as soon as I am certain."

"Hmpf," Valeria scoffs from the side with an arrogant look on her face. "I always assumed the Jedi were useless, but this is downright ridiculous. He should have already planted a child inside of you. If he cannot handle this simple task, perhaps he is not as useful as we imagined, and we should scour the galaxy for a more potent mate."

"I warned you to be careful with your words," Merrin steps closer to her with a menacing look in her eyes. "I do not desire another husband."

Their eyes lock onto each other, pale blue eyes filled with contempt while the warm brown eyes hold back the Mother's rage. There is an uncomfortable silence in the air as both Nightsisters continue to glare at each other, neither choosing to give up. A Nightbrother dashing clumsily and rapidly through the door breaks their intense stares as Merrin glares at the man with wild eyes, deeply offended by his sudden presence.

"Mother! Apologies for interrupting, but I must speak with you at once!" he stresses while he lowers himself on one knee and bows, visibly distraught.

"What could possibly be so important that you dare interrupt my counseling session?" she lashes out, "Speak!"

"There has been an incident in the village..." his voice trails off, afraid to speak more.

"An incident? Surely the capable hand of Kora will settle this matter," she turns to face the other Nightsister with a frustrated sigh. "Go at once," she commands.

"I apologize again, Mother, but I was instructed by Orin to summon your presence and no one else. It is a matter concerning your husband."

"My husband? What has he done now?" she releases a frustrated sigh, rubbing the sides of her temples with her fingers delicately. A small headache was already beginning to form, dreading to think of what trouble Cal has already gotten himself into.

The Nightbrother swallows a dry lump in his throat, the silence coming from him unnerving Merrin to the core while she waits for him to speak. He lifts his head, a troubled look in his eyes indicating the matter was far more serious than she had anticipated.

"When Orin went to deliver your husband's food this morning, he found the door unlocked and the residence in shambles. His body was found bound and gravely injured, barely alive."

"What?!" she steps closer, still processing his words.

"I was instructed to bring you to the village urgently, as Orin fears your husband may perish from his wounds as we speak," he lowers his head again, a regretful stare etched on his face.

Merrin's entire mood shifts, a dull pain setting inside her chest while she remains silent, staring at the man in front of her. He waits anxiously for her response, but her body feels frozen while a sudden rage fills her, her hands shaking as they bawl into tight fists. Her eyes glow a bright neon green, the curtain behind Isea setting ablaze instantly.

She closes her eyes while she takes a deep, shaky breath, the younger Nightsister panicking behind her to dispose of the burning material to the ground. Her eyes open, and she storms out of the room without saying a single word, with the Nightbrother following her closely behind.

Only Isea, Valeria, and Kora remain inside the room, all silently watching as the doors close with a loud thud. As soon as the room is silent again, Isea turns her head and glares at Valeria with wild eyes. "Murderer!"

Valeria abruptly turns her back to her, stepping away from the table as she retains her calm demeanor. She stops and turns, watching Isea with a displeased look in her eyes. "I do not know what you speak of."

"If you had anything to do with this—"

"I did not. And even if I did, who are you to decide what happens next? Are you our Mother? Are you the leader of this clan?"

"I am not and I would never dare to consider myself as such, unlike you, dear sister! I know you seek to gain power and control inside this circle, and the only one stopping you to do so is our Mother!"

"Nonsense. I am but a humble servant of our Mother, as are you," she points toward Isea," and you," her finger now rests on Kora.

"I am nobody's servant!" Kora interjects with a low growl, "We are all equals here, sworn to protect our Mother while she protects us. Do not seek to divide us!"

"Are we really? Equals?" she cocks her head while he raises her eyebrow and stares at Kora with an ironic stare.

"Do not listen to her words, Kora. There is only poison behind them," Isea interrupts the conversation while she gestures for Kora to stand down, lowering the spear in her hand.

The atmosphere is tense as silence falls inside the room once more. Kora glares wildly at Valeria, Isea's hands and reasonable words the only thing stopping her from retaliating. The other Nightsister simply gestures with a satisfied smirk while leaving the room quietly.

Sorrow and pain can only begin to describe what Merrin feels inside as she continues to stare at the bloodied body in front of her. Her fingers shake lightly while her eyes remain fixed on Cal, afraid to look away. He lays on the ground, unmoving, body stiff, and eyelids tight shut.

Orin had explained to her that he freed him from his bonds as soon as he found him, the violet rope burns deeply contrasting his now incredibly pale skin. He was also the one who placed her husband on the ground, the beige piece of cloth under him stained with so much blood that it made her stomach sick.

She takes a good look at his face as he lays on his back, the left side of his face mildly swollen and bruised. There is another wound on the right side of his head, a deep cut stretching from under his jaw all the way to the back of his neck. His hands are stiff, his left fingers still tightly wrapped around his right wrist. There is no sound coming from him, no movement... nothing.

"Is he..." her voice trails off, and she swallows a dry lump in her throat, unable to continue.

A mournful sight comes from Orin, the sound all but confirming her deepest fears as he steps closer and looks at her with a pitiful look on his face. He hesitates to speak, his eyes traveling to her injured or possibly dead husband.

"I am afraid he is no longer with us, Mother..." he speaks in a low and sad voice, his lips now fixed in a deep frown. "I have tried everything, but he does not awaken. I cannot sense any more life inside him, and even if there is some left, he is soon to be gone."

"How could you let this happen?!" Merrin rages, turning to face the older Nightbrother with a ragefull look in her eyes. "I entrusted his life to you!" she can feel her entire body burning, begging to release all that pent up anger and resentment, even if, deep down, she felt sorry for unleashing it all on Orin.

"I have no excuse, Mother. I promised to keep your husband safe, and I have failed. I now only ask for a quick and painless death so that I may join my fallen brothers among the gods," he lowers himself on one knee, bowing his head in front of her while waiting for his punishment.

Her eyes are still glaring at him while considering her next move. Killing him was out of the question, as she has had her fair share of death in these past few days to last her a lifetime. She shakes her head and gestures for him to stand up, her expression now incredibly serious.

"You would be of no use to me dead!" Merrin declares in an imposing tone. "Find whoever is responsible for this, and I will consider this transgression mildly forgiven," she commands while the Nightbrother stares back with a mix of fear and gratitude.

Now that the matter is set, her full attention is directed back to her husband. His expression seems almost peaceful as he lays in his own blood, and she sighs deeply as she dares to grow closer and observe him better. It feels so cruel and unsettling to see him like this, quiet and lifeless, when only a few days ago he displayed such wild fire inside him.

A quality she always admired about him—his resilience in face of danger, alongside his kind heart. In more ways than one, Merrin considered Cal a better reflection of herself, someone she strived to be more like. She also had grown to enjoy his presence greatly, with his unexpected humor and upstanding morals proving to be exactly what she had wanted and needed all her life from a significant other.

Yet now the other half of her heart lies at her feet, bruised and lifeless. A perfect reflection of all things that come to die on this wretched world, she begins to lament and mourn inside her mind. It seems Dathomir itself demands blood at all times, and now Cal was the last victim to succumb and satiate its thirst for death.

She lowers herself until she can place a soft hand on his chest. He is still unexpectedly warm, his muscles stiff, while he will never respond to her touch again. Greif was an old friend of hers, remembering once more how her clan was destroyed in mere seconds when she was a child. And now, she feels the same pain travel inside her chest as she felt it all those years ago upon seeing her dead sisters.

A silent tear traces her right cheek while she struggles with every fiber inside her body not to weep. There is a moment where she fools herself into thinking that she can feel the faint beat of his heart, but she quickly decides it is only her grief fueling her hope. Cal is gone, tortured and murdered, and now the only thing left to resolve is to find whoever even dared to injure him like this and bring him to swift justice.

When Orin revealed the nature of his injuries, Merrin's entire behavior changed, her anger pulsating inside her body with each harrowing detail. The more Orin spoke, the more she felt her lust for blood rise, deciding whoever dared to lay their hands on her husband to be punished accordingly.

The Nightbrothers have gotten far too comfortable with her peaceful demeanor, and it was time to show them again why they needed to fear their Mother in the first place. If ruling though fear was what she was meant to do from now on, she will perform her duty admirably. No Nightbrother, outsider, or even sister will ever dare to question her authority again after she is done.

Her thoughts consume her, unable to shield her gaze from the body in front of her, while her eyes travel towards Cal's rigid hands. His left fingers are still tightly grasping his own right wrist, and a curious object glimmers from underneath, the gold metal shining a dull yellow light. She recognizes her own bracelet, the one she gave him when he taught her how to better herself in the use of the Force.

"I apologize. I could not pry his hands apart," Orin sounds dejected and weak, his voice barely filling the morbid silence in the room.

"I wish to be left alone with him," she replies with coldness. "Go outside and instruct the Nightbrothers to prepare a stretcher for his body. He will be buried inside the catacombs with the proper rituals."

"Yes Mother! At once!" he begins to walk away, only for him to stop as her sharp command sends small shivers down his spine.

"Orin?"

"Is there anything else you wish to tell me?" he turns slowly, noting the decisive look in her eyes.

"The village will be put under permanent lockdown until we resolve this matter. You will be guarded at all times, and if anyone dares to leave, they will be punished without mercy. Make sure to inform everyone of my decision."

He nods solemnly, turning to face the door and leaving as Merrin remains alone inside the house. There is an uncomfortable silence hovering all around her, as if the world and time itself has stopped moving.

She places a soft hand on the side of his face while she looks at him with such remorse that the sting inside her chest grows stronger than ever. The slight warmth of his skin surprises her again, and she leans closer with a sudden rush of hope as she searches for any sign that he might still breathe.

Her thoughts bring her attention back to his hands, stiff fingers permanently wrapped around the same golden bracelet she gifted him not long ago. She still remembers the lovely look on his face as she entrusted one of her personal objects to him.

The corners of her mouth drop, the comprehension hitting her faster than she has time to realize, and before she has time to even process the thoughts, she's already clawing at his fingers, desperately tying to set them free.

"You cannot be dead, Cal Kestis! Do you hear me?" she shakes him vigorously, his left hand outright refusing to budge from her bracelet. "I forbid you to die!" she declares in a demanding voice.

A wave of strong magick surges through her entire body, coursing through her veins while she pulls harder, until she feels the inevitable release, his hand slumping on the ground while he continues to remain immobile.

Wild brown eyes are fixed on him, searching his face while a quiet shiver travels across her, the tormenting feeling of anticipation making her stomach ache. A few moments pass, the silence now completely unbearable while Merrin refuses to look away. The crushing disappointment makes her stand up quickly as he fails to wake up, the mournful sentiment now replaced by a vengeful lust for revenge.

She turns to leave before her body betrays her again, the corners of her eyes already stinging with fresh tears. As soon as she turns and begins to walk, a low, barely audible groan makes her freeze on the spot. Her head turns with a wild stare in her eyes, the freeing sensation of relief washing over her as she lowers herself incredibly fast next to Cal, the tears already half way down her cheeks.

His chapped and dry lips try to materialize a weak murmur while his eyelids open gradually, his shaky hands frantically searching for something. Merrin quickly places her right hand on his own, while she begins to whisper soothing words towards him, sincerely hoping he can hear them.

"Shh, do not try to speak. You are gravely injured."

"Mmm-hhh..." is all he can muster to reply, his chest slowly beginning to rise and fall in a steady rhythm.

Merrin's hearts almost jump in her chest upon seeing him alive. Cal is seriously injured, and he will need a healer as soon as possible, but for now, all she can do is rejoice that at the very least he was still among them, willing to fight. A resilient mind and body indeed, she smiles sadly at him, wondering if he even remembers what had truly happened.

None of that matters now as she commands Orin to hasten the transport of her husband back to the temple. A good healer is required for such terrible wounds, and once again she finds herself in a difficult situation, pondering her next move while a sweet sensation of sudden relief washes over her. Cal is thankfully alive and now the hunt for the one responsible for all this begins.

Chapter Text

The journey back to the main temple felt so long and harrowing, but Merrin insisted on escorting the Nightbrothers carrying her injured husband on foot all the way. She refused to leave his side as soon as he was placed inside one of the empty rooms, while she began to tend to his wounds as best as she could.

Cal lies on the bed with his face down, the mangled flesh peeking from under the ripped material on his back, making her hearts ache. Whoever was responsible for this had been incredibly cruel, his back littered with lashes and cuts like she has never seen before. She takes a seat next to him, watching him with a mournful stare.

The room is silent, with only the small sound of breathing coming from him, indicating he was awake and probably in immeasurable pain. Healing has never been a strong suit of hers, with her powers diverted to other more powerful spells, and she fears her magick alone will not be enough to heal his injuries.

Isea was the only one who was also more inclined to learn the healing arts, but she was still fairly young with her magick. The rest of her sisters were true warriors with no healing knowledge, and even if Valeria has some knowledge, she outright refuses to let her near her husband, especially in his now fragile condition.

So she sends a peaceful message to a more distant clan, one who has never tried to attack them before, their ways leaning more toward the light side of the Force. Merrin had heard tales of the Frenzied River clan possessing more healers than warriors, and if there was anyone from there willing to help, she would gladly accept their aid without objection.

As the hours pass, Merrin's gaze remains fixed on Cal. He's still breathing slowly, while a few occasional whimpers of pain can be heard from him. She places a gentle hand on his shoulder, trying to comfort him, the quiet shivers inside his body slowly beginning to fade away. A knock on the door breaks her stare, and she observes Isea wandering quietly inside the room with an unknown woman by her side.

One of the healers from the Frenzied River, she reasons while she rises from her seat and steps closer. The older woman is dressed in a white and gold attire, her robes completely different from her own. She has a peculiar headpiece made of wood and feathers on her head, her skin painted with white and red. The healer gives her a formal nod and steps in front of her, her eyes wandering over to the injured man on the bed.

"Welcome, sister. My name is Merrin, and I am the Mother of the Nightsister clan," she extends her arm as a peaceful invitation. "I am pleased to see my message has been well received."

"It is good to meet you, Merrin. I am Kaya, the eldest healer from the Rivers," she reaches out with her hand and accepts Merrin's invitation with a firm handshake.

"Thank you for responding to my invitation so quickly. I understand our clans may not be allies, but I admire your courage and your compassion in these dire times."

"It is nothing to be admired, Mother. Our clan seeks only peace, and if there is someone in need of help, we will provide it," she raises one hand in front of her as if she were swearing and oath, and steps closer to the bed, assessing the injuries in front of her with a calm demeanor.

"Can you help him?" Merin asks in a worried voice, her eyebrow rising on her face while she joins the healer to the side of the bed.

"The flesh has been cut with deep force. I will do my best to close his wounds, but I am afraid he will remain scarred," she hovers her right hand over his back while a dull, white flame materializes under her palm. "This one is strong with the Force..." she stops and looks at Merrin with a curious look in her eyes.

"I do not care about his scars. All I care is that he lives," she diverts her gaze towards him, while her lips set into a deep frown. She also refuses to elaborate, but deep down she understands this healer has no quarrels with the Jedi. If fact, their use of the light side of the Force makes them more similar than she had time to realize.

"Very well, Mother. I will begin the healing process at once. But be warned, it may take hours, perhaps even a day, until I am finished," Kaya declares, her hand already wandering above Cal's back.

"Take as long as you need. I will not leave his side until he is fully awake," she turns to face Isea. "Go and inform the rest of our sisters that I will be absent from today's council. Until I am gone, you will take my place."

"Of course, Mother!" Isea replies quickly, already out the door as soon as she finishes her sentence.

Merrin wanders to the other side of the bed, watching carefully as the healer places herself closer to her husband and gently removes the rest of his ripped tunic until his entire back is exposed. She notices his body flinching for one second, no doubt in immense pain, but there is no sound coming from him.

The healer begins to chant unknown spells, both her palms now engulfed in warm, white flames. She begins wandering her hands over his back in a circular motion, careful not to touch his skin. Her chanting continues steadily for almost an hour, with the white flames now extending all over his back, covering his injuries.

A weak, pained scream can be heard from Cal, muffled by the pillow under his mouth. His body begins to move gradually, and Merrin places her hand on his shoulder again, trying to calm him.

"Do not move, my love. The pain will soon go away," she speaks, and she closes her mouth abruptly, realizing what she had said.

Merrin had never expressed her true feelings towards him so openly before, and she regrets not telling him sooner how she truly felt. Still, she had a fair idea he felt the same, even if they never spoke of such things. For her, a simple gesture meant more than words, and everything Cal had done so far for her made her realize he truly was the only one for her.

Her words seem to work for now, as he begins to calm under her touch, still shaking lightly. There is a moment where she thinks she can hear him try to speak, to tell her something, but the sound is unintelligible, and he suddenly slumps on the bed, no more shivers, no more pain.

"What happened?" Merrin asks with panic in her voice, glaring wildly at the healer.

"I have placed him in a deep sleep to ease his pain. He will not awaken until he is fully healed," she speaks in a calm voice, resuming her chanting once again.

There is nothing else left to be said, as Merrin understands how true the healer's words are. It will take a long time until Cal is back on his feet again. She places her left hand on his own and gives him a gentle squeeze, refusing to let go of him. Even if it takes days, she will not leave his side until he is fully awake.

"She is positively mad! How can she send Lorys away for so many days without even seeking my advice?" Valeria's furious words fill the council room.

"Our Mother has decided to place the Nightbrother village under full lockdown until we find whoever tired to kill her husband. Why do you question her decision?" Isea steps closer, looking at Valeria with suspicion.

"Oh, I do not know. Perhaps it was the entire village that grew tired of our worst enemy living among them. Should we execute them all on the slight chance one of them might be responsible?!" her tone is angry as she is now facing Isea with a wild look in her eyes.

"Do not mock our Mother's choices, Valeria! If she decides our warriors will guard the village, they will do just that. I understand you fear for Lorys and her life, but—"

"You are mistaken! I do not fear anything!" Valeria turns away, avoiding her gaze while a frustrated growl escapes her lips.

"On the contrary, sister, I think you do. You fear the Jedi, you fear our Mother, but most of all...I think you fear losing control the most," Isea places a gentle hand on her shoulder, trying to make peace with the upset Nightsister.

Valeria rapidly pulls her shoulder away and gives Isea a threatening look, the younger Nightsister retracting her hand quietly while stepping backwards.

"Do not touch me..." she declares in a low voice, while she begins to walk away with an angry step until she is out of the room.

The healing session was completed faster than anticipated, with only a day and a half passing since Kaya left to return to her own clan. Merrin refused to leave Cal's current chambers throughout the whole ordeal, never leaving his side, not even for a single moment.

Her hands now rest gently on the side of the bed, grasping Cal's right hand firmly while he lays on his bed, still asleep. Kaya warned her that it may take a while until he opens his eyes and regains consciousness, but until that happens, she is determined to sit by his side and wait patiently.

Her eyes wander over to his face, studying it with a sad smile. His lips part gently while a quiet snore escapes from his lips, his chest rising and falling at a normal pace. The scar on the right side of his face has already healed beautifully, but it will remain a constant reminder of his suffering.

Isea enters the chambers with a bowl of warm food in her hands, her eyes displaying a hint of worry in them. Merrin glares back, unsure what has happened, and decides to raise the matter.

"You seem troubled. Did anything change in my absence?"

"Everything is fine. Do not worry."

The small hesitation in her voice as she replies makes Merrin rise from her seat and step closer, scanning her sisters face for the truth. No word leaves her mouth as she continues to stare, forcing the younger woman to comply and speak again.

"The Nightbrothers grow restless as they are forced to remain prisoners inside their own village. They demand freedom to hunt and gather supplies."

"This is a lie. I am well informed their village has more than enough supplies to withstand a full year without starving. After all, I was the one to guide their last hunting party three months ago."

Isea plants her gaze into the ground, unable to respond while she extends her hands and offers the bowl of food without any words. Merrin sighs, refusing the food while she turns and takes a look at her husband. With the safety of her clan now in a delicate balance and his life out of harm's way, she decides to take the matter into her own hands.

"Fine. I will leave for the village at once. Do not expect my return until I have found the one responsible for nearly killing my husband. You will continue to remain as my replacement, Isea. I have great faith in you." she turns again to face the Nightsister with a determined look.

"Take care of him until I return."

The doors close with a loud thud behind her, her mind racing to plan her revenge. A million possibilities flash inside her mind as she ponders how to punish the attacker. Fear was an excellent motivator as she decides to teleport herself out of the temple.

Sunrises on Dathmir never fail to make her wonder, her eyes set on the bright orange glow. The village is close by, and she stops as soon as she reaches the front gate, with Lorys greeting her eagerly.

"Mother Merrin! What brings you here so soon?" she steps closer while she puts aside her spear and straightens her back.

"I have come to disperse justice. Step aside for now," she waves her hand, the Nightsister obliging her order without protest.

As soon as she enters the village, all eyes are on her. Some Nightbrothers glare with hatred, while others merely stare with confused looks. She seems to have gathered the attention of the entire village as she steps closer to the middle, now surrounded by all of them.

None dare to approach her as she continues to glare at them, pacing left and right until she scans every face in the crowd. Orin joins the rest of the brothers, and she gives him a gentle nod, gesturing for him to step closer.

She takes a deep breath as a surge of magick travels from her toes all the way to her eyes, vibrant neon green replacing the once gentle brown. The Nightbothers step back in fear, not even the bravest warriors in the village daring to oppose her.

"I have been nothing but understanding and kind to all of you, and this is how you repay my trust! By trying to murder my husband!" her voice echoes loud and strong, amplified by her magick. Their faces bear the shameful burden of guilt while they keep their heads down, afraid.

"Let there be known that while I may be merciful, there is no forgiveness to be given for this grave act! Step forward and reveal yourself before I lose what little remains of my patience!" she ads, now fully angry.

Defiant and frightful stares greet her, the silence all but confirming they had no intention of betraying their brothers. An admirable but foolish trait, Merrin ponders as her patience does indeed run thin, and she lights her hands with green flames, the gesture making the Nightbrothers back away even further.

"Last chance..." she declares in her imposing voice, the flames growing bigger with each second while some of them already pour on the ground, engulfing her surroundings with hot fire.

"Mother, wait!" an unknown voice echoes through the crowd, barely stopping her from enacting her revenge. She pants hard, the anger pulsating deep inside her veins while her flames begin to smother.

A young Nightbrother makes his way through the rest until he reveals himself and places himself on his knees in front of her. His expression looks deeply remorseful, and he keeps his eyes on the ground while he speaks in a defeated voice. "I was present that night, as were two more..."

"Speak now!" she steps closer with angry steps, and she stops once she is firmly placed in front of him. There is so much hatred coursing through her body that she takes a deep breath to calm herself, trying to clear her mind while she waits for his answer.

"We were instructed to punish your husband for disobeying. Kylen promised me and Moris complete freedom if we helped him. He was also the one who... held the whip," he keeps his gaze on the ground, deeply ashamed.

"I did not instruct you to punish him! He was already serving the punishment that I demanded! Who gave you the right to step over my decision?!" Merrin can feel her face burning hot, wondering who even had the audacity to overstep her boundaries.

The young Nightbrother hesitates for a moment, his head rising as he looks at her with a regretful stare. His eyes betray him before he even has the chance to speak, with Merrin's hearts sinking while a sentiment of disappointment mixed with anger washes over her, rendering her speechless.

"It was Valeria who came to our village that night. She gave us more gold than we could carry and told us to disappear as soon as the deed was done."

"Valeria? That traitourous snake!" Merrin screams with anger, her eyes fixed on the Nightbrother in front of her. "Where is Kylen now? And the other one?" she ads even more furiously, her brown eyes piercing the man in front of her.

"I do not know. Both left, but I could not do it. I felt... ashamed of my deed," he lowers his head again, avoiding her wild stare.

"You should be! I should drag you corpse into the entire valley as a warning for anyone who dares to question my authority again!" she casts her eyes on the crowd, addressing each end everyone present.

"You are fortunate that my husband lives, despite his terrible injuries... but I cannot allow you to walk freely from this. For your direct involvement, you will be made an example for all who dare to question my leadership again! May the afterlife bring you the riches you so greedily accepted in this one..."

The young Nightbrother's body trembles quietly while he accepts his fate. Merrin signals for him to rise on his feet, still shaken from his words. Valeria had betrayed her like no other, plotting behind her back, and now she felt incredibly foolish for not realizing it sooner.

She remembers the night of her wedding when she saw her speaking with an unknown Nightbother outside her chambers, but at that time she thought nothing of it. But now that she thinks more about it, the more everything settles into place, the truth of Cal's vision crashing down upon her fast and hard. She finally had a name to place on that faceless traitor, one who will surely put up a fierce fight once she comforts her.

"Seize him, Kora!" she gestures towards the other Nightsister, who guards the village from her place. She complies quickly, her hands already binding the Nightbrother with shackles while she begins to guide him towards the center of the village.

Merrin's eyes burn with lust for revenge, her hands igniting in scorching flames. She intends to end his life swiftly, the flames already burning brighter, only fueled by her anger. The rest of the Nightbothers observe in silence, their faces filled with horror as Kora pushed their kin forward, his fate already sealed.

The sound of loud screaming combined with the sudden smell of wood burning captures her attention, the entire crowd dispersing while a thick smoke rises from beyond the main gate. A rush of panic rises in her chest as the wooden fence begins to burn quickly, the fire spreading through the gate faster than anticipated.

"Everyone stand back!" Merrin yells in a loud voice, trying to dull the flames with her magick as some of the Nightbrothers begin running while others bring water from the well and throw it on the scorching fire.

Kora is alert, keeping the prisoner with one hand while she draws a knife from her thigh and assumes a defensive stance. Merrin joins her side, still unsure what is happening while she keeps control of the flames that try to consume the entire village.

"What is happening? Are we under attack?" Kora's deep voice makes Merrin even more alert, her hand guiding the dirt on the ground with her magick toward the flames until they are all but gone.

"I do not know! Where is Lorys? And Fey?" she searches her surroundings while a sense of dread creeps under her skin. Something was definitely wrong, with the fire erupting and spreading so fast that she barely had any time to reflect on what had happened.

Kora immediately shrugs while she keeps her knife in front of her. The fire is extinguished while the main gate and the surrounding wooden fences are all destroyed, leaving the village extremely exposed.

A body lies charred next to where once the main gate once stood, and Merrin teleports herself near it, her eyes widening in shock while she falls to her knees, unable to speak. Lorys lays at her feet, lifeless and burned, her Nightsister garments melted into her flesh while her short, silvery hair is gone.

Merrin's eyes well up with tears upon seeing her fallen sister, her lips quivering with anger and sadness while she reaches a shaky hand towards the body of one of her sisters. Another one gone too soon, her life taken so abruptly from her that she didn't even have time to enjoy it.

"Mother! We are under attack!" Kora's voice echoes behind her, gradually getting closer until she's next to her. Though all the panic and chaos, a familiar large ship descends into Dathomir's atmosphere, the unmistakable design of more small ships following it confirming the Empire's forces are here to invade it.

Chapter Text

A smug smile is etched on the Second Sister's face as the imperial ship begins to make its descent close to the main temple of the Nightsister clan. Her informant had been truly loyal, revealing vital information about all the clans living on this forsaken world, along with the location of her most valued prize. A living, breathing Jedi, she continues to smile behind her mask, deeply pleased with her victory.

That damned witch had been lying from the start, seeking to keep him all to herself, and if Valeria's words are accurate, she also married the poor fool, thus forcing him to become part of their clan.

As if that will stop her, she scoffs lightly under her breath, completely satisfied with this turn of events. It seems even the bravest Nightisters become malleable when offered promises of glory, and this one was not to so different from the rest. In fact, with Valeria's intel, she plans on remaining on this world as the Empire fully settles, assimilating or decimating all the clans until there are none left to oppose them.

Her ship nears the temple as it lands, and she steps on the ramp with a few stormtroopers following closely behind. The dust around her settles while she approaches the main entrance, Valeria already waiting for her as promised.

"Excellent work, sister! I could not have done better myself!" she greets the other woman with an arrogant tone, taking off her mask while the Nightsister bows quietly in front of her.

"The Jedi is trapped inside the temple. I will bring you to him, but first I wish for us to discuss an important matter. Alone..." she gestures with her hands while she raises her head and stares at the Second Sister calmly.

"Hmm...or I could just kill you right now and retrieve the Jedi myself," the Second Sister reaches for the hilt of her lightsaber swiftly, the red crystal already shining on her face.

"Many have tried... you would be a fool to lose me as your ally," Valeria glares back, her expression a mix of defiance and fear.

"I suppose you are correct. For now," her upper lip twitches while she closes her lightsaber and places it on her back again. There is a quiet moment when both women stare at each other, defiant pale blue eyes peering into cold, ruthless golden ones.

A satisfied laugh erupts from the Second Sister, her lips forming a sinister grin. Valeria replies with a subdued smirk as she straightens her back and begins guiding the imperial agent inside the temple.

The inside is tranquil, devoid of life as the ancient ruins are being explored by the incoming imperial soldiers. The Second Sister requests for more stormtroopers to be brought inside while another ship descends into the planet's atmosphere, carrying even more.

Victory feels sweet as she is led inside the council chamber, the holomap displaying the entire planet in its glory. She cast curious eyes over the entire map, each clan marked with a white dot.

"This temple is as barren as it is depressing. No wonder you decided to betray your own kin. How awfully dull it must be to live here," the Second Sister's voice is sharp, mocking her ally while she takes a seat on a somewhat uncomfortable chair and crosses one leg over the other. She places her hand on her knee and waits, a smug expression etched on her features.

"I did not summon you here to insult me! These are dire times, and we both know an alliance with the Empire is the sole guarantee my clan will survive."

"Your Mother seems to think otherwise," she accentuates her words, her smirk turning into a deep frown instantly.

"That foolish girl almost brought our entire clan to extinction with her outlandish ideas. I curse the day I agreed to name her our leader!" Valeria steps closer to the holomap, gazing at the image with angry eyes.

"Well, then I suppose you would not mind if I dismissed her from her title permanently," the Second Sister raises one eyebrow and glares at Valeria with a suggestive stare. The corners of her mouth curl into a wicked smile again as Valeria turns, now facing her.

"It must be done, but it will not be easy. Far from it, actually. Merrin's power has only grown stronger since she was appointed as Mother, and it will continue to expand until it surpasses even that of our late revered Mother Talzin."

"You Nightsisters certainly have a flair for the dramatics," she rises suddenly on her feet and dashes forward with a light chuckle. "Did you forget the immense power the Empire holds?"

"Do not underestimate her magick. As much as I hate to admit it, she is not an enemy to be taken lightly," the Nightsister warns.

"The Jedi Masters were also enemies not to be trifled with, and look where they are now. Scattered and lost, struggling to survive while the Empire hunts them down like stray dogs," the Second Sister replies with an arrogant tone. "Which brings me to the matter at hand. Where is the Jedi?"

"You will have him soon... but first, I need you to keep your word. There are two more of my sisters guarding the village, while the rest are here, inside the temple. We must act quickly and eliminate those who dare to stand against us."

The Second Sister's eyes narrow, and she looks at Valeria with a hint of suspicion in her eyes. If these individuals were so dangerous, perhaps it was better to kill them all, including Valeria, and eliminate the middleman. However, she still needs her for her precious intel and her knowledge of the other clans, information that will surely come in hand later on when the Empire begins their conquest.

"Very well, sister, but I warn you. Do not keep me waiting."

Imperial soldiers pour from all sides, circling the village while the Nightbrothers prepare to fight. There is a quiet moment just before the fighting starts, with Merrin taking the lead, her magick downing as many stormtroopers as she can. Chaos replaces the silence, with screaming and battle cries echoing inside the valley.

"You are not welcome here! Begone!" she screams as she jumps and lands in front of a group of heavily armed soldiers. With her feet placed firmly, the ground beneath them swallows them before they have time to retaliate.

Adrenaline and anxiety battle to reign supreme inside her body as she continues to fight what seems like an interminable wave of incoming stormtroopers. Their numbers are large, their blasters severely surpassing the rudimentary weapons of the Nightbrothers.

"They are headed for the temple!" Kora shouts, pointing towards a large imperial vessel descending from the sky in the direction of her home.

"No! We must stop them!" Merrin closes her fist as another surge of magick materializes, engulfing the attackers with hot, green flames.

"Go quickly! I will remain here to defend the village. Take Orin with you," Kora is now by her side, her eyes fixed on Merrin while she gives her a definitive look.

"Not—"

"These invaders must be stopped at all costs. Go and retrieve your husband before it is too late. Do not worry about me, Mother. I will be fine," she places a steady hand on Merrin's shoulder while she gives her a sincere smile.

There are no words left to be said while Merrin watches Kora join the Nightbrothers into the fight. Even the one she had sentenced mere moments ago for attacking Cal was free and fighting the incoming imperial troopers with all his strength. A futile attempt at survival if she doesn't reach the temple in time, she realizes as soon as Orin is by her side. There is an ancient artifact hidden inside it that could turn the tables into their favor, and now the only problem that remained was to reach it.

Orin never leaves her side as they cleverly hide themselves from the seemingly interminable imperial soldiers wandering where once no one even dared to walk. Even the Bane-Backs seem less inclined to attack, hiding in their nests instead while a dreadful feeling swirls inside Merrin's chest.

The temple is now close, and they stop to hide behind a large rock while two men dressed in that familiar black armor patrol the main road, holding large weapons in their hands. A flash of hope rises in Merrin's chest as the main entrance stands unguarded for now. She gestures with her finger toward the large door and begins to walk carefully, her feet incredibly light.

Orin follows her closely behind, his fingers shaking lightly while he clutches his weapon and sighs heavily. Merrin understands how disappointed and frustrated he must feel in this situation, and truth be told, she feels inclined to agree with him. The Empire was not an enemy to be underestimated, as their mere numbers show just how much power they actually hold in this vast galaxy. A feeling of regret replaces her hope, wondering if Kora or the rest of her sisters are still alive.

Her eyes wander towards the main entrance as a feeling of dread mixed with anticipation overcomes her. There is something in the far distance, a combination of red and black that catches her eye just outside the main door. She starts to run, her knees beginning to shake as the figure becomes crystal clear, and she stops in her tracks, completely frozen.

"No..." is all that she can muster to speak, her voice breaking while her hearts begin to pound frantically.

Isea's body is displayed, hanging just outside the main entrance, her once delicate neck sporting a thick and blooded rope around it. Her feet dangle into the air lifelessly while her eyes are wide open, a cast of white already replacing the soft green they once held. There is a large wound in her stomach, the blood all dried, the dull reddish-brown color forever mixed with her Nightsister attire.

Rage and sorrow fill Merrin once more as she stares at the lifeless body of one of her best friends. Isea never wanted to hurt anyone, and her passion for living was unmatched by anyone. Her kind spirit and creative ideas were seen as strange by the rest of her kind, but to Merrin they meant the world. There is only so much someone can take, and her entire body begins to shake uncontrollably as she once again stands to witness the demise of her clan. Orin's hand is now trying to comfort her as he squeezes her shoulder with kindness, but her anger only continues to grow, to feed from her sorrow until a strange and unfamiliar entity takes over her body.

The large doors of the temple break with such ease that the imperial soldiers behind them barely have time to react as they remain buried under the rubble. Her eyes light up while her magick feels stronger than ever, and for once she realizes she's drawing so much from the dark side it makes her relatively unstoppable.

All the stormtroopers can do is scream and perish as she advances without mercy, killing everyone in her path. The hallways are littered with sliced or burned bodies, her anger growing with each kill, unsatiated until she gets her full revenge. A blaster bolt grazes her right arm, and she glares back with wild eyes as the ceiling collapses on top of her attacker, the sound of her rage full battle cry echoing through the once quiet and peaceful temple until only smoke, blood, and dirt reside around her.

Cal's location isn't far, and she blasts through the doors of his bedroom, only to find an incredibly surprising sight waiting for her. Orin jogs behind her until he reaches her side, and he too stops, afraid to take another step closer. Merrin gives him a quick nod, urging him to continue his journey while she cast her eyes ahead, and takes a furious breath.

"One more step, and this time I will truly end his life!" Fey is folding Cal's unconscious body tight in her grasp, the sharp blade of her knife pressed hard at the base of his neck. With her other hand, she holds his body trapped in green magick binds.

The wild look in Merrin's eyes is indescribable, but she remains in her spot for now, fearing Fey's madness might materialize sooner than she has time to act. Her eyes keep returning to Cal's face, who sleeps peacefully, completely unaware of the dangerous predicament he is currently in.

"Why Fey?" Merrin declares in a mournful voice. "Why did you betray me like this? Have I not been kind enough to you?" she tries to reason, her eyes now fixed on the other Nightsister.

"Do not try to manipulate me, Merrin!" she lashes out, her knife now dangerously close to a fatal area. "You are not my Mother anymore!"

"I am warning you... do not do this, Fey. I know you, and you do not wish for all this death. I know you are not the one responsible for all this..." Merrin's voice trails off while she takes a discreet step forward.

"Stand back or I will kill him!" Fey threatens, her knife drawing small droplets of blood from Cal's skin.

Merrin stops, acknowledging the truth in her desperate words. Fey has always been weaker than the rest of her sisters, her lack of skill and overconfidence always making her stumble in critical moments. But she never showed signs of losing her loyalty, which makes Merrin wonder what truly motivates her to align herself with the only person who is truly responsible for all this death and betrayal.

"Valeria is the only one who seeks to manipulate you," Merrin takes another careful step forward, quiet and slow. "Everything I have ever done was for the benefit of this clan. You know this, as I have always strived to keep all of you safe. What has Valeria done beside bringing our enemy to destroy us as we speak?"

"You were the one who brought the enemy to live with us, not her! It is you who is responsible for the death of this clan!" Fey's words are harsh and loud while she shakes Cal's body with deep hatred, her knife tightening in her palm while she gives him a stern look.

"Release him! I will not ask again!" Merrin takes another brave step forward, her eyes fixed on the sharp knife. It only takes a second and a wrong move for his life to end, and she treads carefully while the other woman backs further into the wall, refusing to comply.

"And then what? Will you attack me for disobeying you? Would you kill your own sister in exchange for the life of this unworthy Jedi?" her eyes well up with tears as fear takes over her body, her fingers shaking lightly while she continues to keep the knife close to his neck.

Merrin's intense gaze and lack of response indicate Fey already knows her answer, and as painful as it is, she also knows what follows next. Fighting one of her sisters has never crossed her mind, but the more she stands, the more Lorys and Isea's bodies flash inside her mind, reminding her why she was here in the first place.

"You murdered them... You were the one who started the fire," she is now halfway inside the room, glaring at Fey with cold eyes, her fingers packed with magick while her body shakes with indescribable rage. Her upper lip twitches, and she stops suddenly, her eyes filling with green flames.

"Both traitors who deserved to die for even allowing such a depraved union to happen in the first place!" Fey takes note of Merrin's closeness, and she glares at the Mother wildly, her eyes filled with contempt as she continues to speak.

"My only regret is that I chose to follow you as our Mother instead of the one who saw things clearly from the start. The one who truly seeks to protect us!" the grip on her knife loosens while she gives Merrin a disapproving glare. "But do not worry, your reign will soon be over and the Empire will cleanse this world of the likes of you!"

Fey finally releases the binds holding Cal in place, and he falls to the ground as soon as they disappear. His body stands still, eyes tight shut, still asleep. The rage inside Merrin's body manifests as soon as Cal hits the ground, with Fey's hands stretched in front of her, ready to fight. A wave of adrenaline courses through her veins, screaming while she lunges at her once beloved sister. Her hands light up in flames while Fey dodges her attack, grabbing the knife from the floor and grazing the left side of her calf.

"I do not need Valeria's help to kill you, Merrin!"

"You flatter yourself, sister! You never that strong!" she replies with anger while she sprints forward with incredible speed, her left hand wrapping around the wrist of the other Nightsister. With her other hand, she deflects the incoming knife blow, the object falling at their feet with a loud clink.

"I only wished for us to live together in peace, Fey. But if war is what Valeria desires, she will have one!" she bends the other woman's wrist until her knees begin to shake and a pained grimace appears on her lips. "Unfortunately for you, you will not be there to witness it..."

Fey's eyes hold an amalgamation of resentment and regret as her body is lit ablaze, the green flames melting her flesh rapidly while she screams until there is nothing left from her but charred bones and ash. Merrin's grip is strong as the Nightsister perishes before her eyes, unwilling to forgive her betrayal while also lamenting her end.

So much death has happened in such a short span of time that she barely had time to mourn or realize how her clan was now comprised solely of her and Valeria alone. Only two Nightsisters remained alive, with Kora's fate still unknown, but judging by the massive imperial forces lingering outside, she had little hope remaining inside her.

There was also the matter of fleeing the temple quickly before Valeira and the rest of her allies found them. Orin was already searching the lower levels for her relic, the broken orb she inherited from mother Talzin after her demise. None of the other Nightsisters ever tried to use it, afraid of the raw power it holds, but now, with everything that had happened, it was time to put it to good use and rid Dathomir of the Empire for good.

Her hands gently grab her husband's unconscious body, his heavy weight surprising her while she uses her magick to lift him from the ground and levitate him carefully until he is out the door. She can hear the rapid footsteps of imperial soldiers patrolling the long corridors, and she enters one of the closest chambers near her, dragging Cal beside her until the door is closed tight shut.

"Find her, now!" an imposing voice echoes through the corridors, the sound familiar to Merrin's ears while she keeps quiet, hiding inside the room.

"She cannot be far. We will find her at once!" Valeria replies as well, ordering the imperial troopers to search every room. One of them tries to enter, but Merrin has already locked the door with her magick, preventing anyone to come inside. The door breaks, and the troopers pour inside, with her managing to climb and hide outside the window, levitating Cal's body with gentle care, afraid to drop him.

"You better, or it will be your head that I will deliver to the Emperor!" the voice grows closer, and Merrin realizes who it belongs to. The imperial agent that visited them not long ago has returned and joined forces with Valeria against her.

A grave mistake, she ponders as she thinks about her sister. Valeria had always been strong-headed, and she always made sure to voice her extreme opinions, but Merrin always felt like she could trust her. Nightsisters were supposed to stick together, to remain loyal to one another, and never conspire with the enemy. It seems Valeria's ambition to reach for something she will soon regret has made her bitter and angry, bringing with her the collapse of their entire clan.

The sound of their footsteps grows weaker while Merrin keeps dead silent. She waits until she hears no more noise and climbs quietly inside the room, scanning left and right for any signs of enemies. When she fails to see anyone, she carefully brings Cal inside and continues walking towards the nearest hiding place.

It doesn't take long for another enemy patrol to come, and she finds herself wandering into the lower levels until they are both safely hidden inside the massive library. A bittersweet feeling overcomes her while she sits on the ground in silence, looking around the library while Cal sleeps soundly by her side. Who knows how long it will take for him to regain consciousness, and she flashes him a worried smile while she leans and places a tender kiss on the top of his forehead.

The soft gesture garners no response, and she feels a tinge disappointed while she gives him another sad look, wondering how he will react once he finally comes back to his senses. Perhaps he will even help her shed some light into this tragic incident, with his gift of dwelling into the past proving incredibly useful.

If only she had taken action sooner, the clan would still be thriving today and the traitor would be banished into the wilds, never to be seen again. Merrin blames herself for everything, cursing her naivete and her hope for a better future. With Valeria in charge of the hunt, who knows how little it will take for her to be found, she takes a deep breath, mentally preparing herself for the inevitable fight.

A strong, calloused hand on her shoulder makes her jump, interrupting her thoughts, and she turns with her eyes burning bright green to spot Orin by her side. He gives her a worried look while his hands hold an object, wrapped into a dirty rag. He gestures with his finger over his lips while footsteps can be heard paroling outside, and her eyes winder as soon as he reaches down and reveals the object in his lap.

The white orb is broken, split in half, but still holds so much power inside it that only the strongest Nightsisters dare to touch it. Merrin remembers how intense it felt as she took it in her hands the first time, and she rapidly placed it back in its place, afraid that the raw energy might consume her whole.

But now, having grown stronger and wiser in the arts of magick, she feels confident enough to use it for the first time. It will have to be somewhere open, as the massive surge of power could destroy the temple if she is not careful enough, and she gives Orin a quick nod, instructing him to give her the makeshift pouch while he carries her husband back to safety.

The only way out was by ship, and she prayed that the vessel was not destroyed yet, as she intended to use it to flee, though where too she had no idea. The neighboring clans do not accept outsiders, and she fears they might try to kill them given their short but intense scuffle with the Howling Crags not long ago.

The rest of them were even less inclined to accept strangers, and for once Merrin feels trapped, unable to think of a way out. That is until she remembers the Frenzied River healer who selflessly helped Cal without asking for anything in return. She knows little about their clan besides the fact that they are peaceful, and she decides it's better to try than to sit around and wait for the Empire to find them.

The ship is located at the back of the temple, outside, and while it may seem difficult to reach it, she knows it is not impossible. So she instructs Orin to carry her husband while she holds the broken orb tight in her hand and begins walking ahead. The corridors are surprising empty, and she keeps expecting to walk into the enemy, but so far it seems almost too quiet.

Her ongoing suspicion is finally confirmed as she steps outside, only to be greeted by so many imperial soldiers that she can barely see the small ship behind them as they gather from all sides. A sinister voice catches her attention as she diverts her gaze toward the black clad figure walking in front of them, while Valeria strides closely behind with a smug look on her features. She gives Merrin a resentful glare, flaring her nostrils while she stops near the enemy.

"Oh my! What do we have here? A couple of rats caught before they could run..." the Second Sister speaks behind her imposing mask, enunciating her words carefully while she tilts her head.

"Give us the damned Jedi Merrin, and we might consider sparing your life!" Valeria ads form the side, her expression deeply satisfied. She takes a step forward, extending her hand in demand.

"Come closer if you wish to die!" Merrin glares wildly back at her former sister with a disapproving and angry look in her eyes. She stands her ground, unwilling to move, while the Second Sister scoffs under her mask, her hand already reaching for her weapon.

"Pathetic. I always assumed your kind was ruthless, but to see such weakness displayed in front of me makes me sick. And to think I almost entertained the possibility of letting you keep your life if you complied," the Second Sister ingites her red lightsaber with a swift motion, the crimson light shining on her worn-out mask. "A minor mistake I will not make again."

"This is my final warning to all of you. Leave at once or witness the wrath of Dathomir in all its glory!" Merrin states in an ominous voice, her hands wrapped carefully around the hidden orb, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

"I told you this would end in tragedy, yet you did not listen! The death of our clan lies on your hands! And now you feel foolish enough to assume you could ever stand to defeat us!"

"Enough chatter. Hand over the Jedi before I lose what little patience I still have left!" the imperial agent's voice sounds frustrated, her mask still hiding her cold and empty eyes, but Merrin remembers her face and knows all too well the monster that hides behind her calm demeanor.

"Dare to step closer and retrieve him yourself..." Merrin taunts from her spot, fingers already wrapped tight around the relic, the orb massively enhancing her magick like never before.

There is a short moment where nobody speaks, the atmosphere tense all around them while Merrin stares at the woman in front of her with determination. Even though her face is obscured, she is aware there is a wicked smile present under, her fingers twitching slightly as she holds her cursed weapon, no doubt eager to attack.

"Time for you to die," the Second Sister declares with a cold voice, advancing rapidly with the lightsaber in her hand, the weapon spitting into another red blade as she begins to spin it in front of her. She advances gradually, ready to strike as soon as she nears Merrin. The young witch's eyes fill with green flames as she vocalizes a quick spell, the cloth around the relic burning as soon as the woman dares to approach.

"Not today," Merrin's voice resounds loudly around her, dual voices combining into one while she lifts the orb in front of her, fueling her spell.

Valeria shouts, trying to warn her ally, but before any of them have time to react, the spell is already in full effect, the corpses of all the fallen Nightsisters hanging above them falling at their feet with a sickening sound.

"Do not forget, dear sister, that once you face a Nightsister of Dathomir, you face us all!" she ads while the orb sustains her magick, a powerful green shockwave toppling every trooper in front of her to the ground.

The corpses reanimate around them and begin to move with incredible speed, attacking everyone in sight, including the Second Sister, who begins to swing her lightsaber frantically, cutting down everything in her path. Chaos consumes the entire scene, with the reanimated Nightsisters managing to subdue most of the stormtroopers blocking the way towards the ship.

"Get to the ship! I will join you as soon as I can!" Merrin instructs Orin while carving a clear path with hot flames, keeping the enemy away.

The Nightbrother complies immediately, running with Cal thrown over his shoulder while the mummified corpses continue their attack. The stormtroopers scream as they are being outnumbered, trying hard to shoot them but failing spectacularly while a feral scream can be heard echoing around them.

Merrin begins to run towards the ship, watching the ramp lower as Orin enters it safely and stops, waiting for her. He extends his hand, a worried look in his eyes flashing before her as something wraps around her leg and causes her to stumble. The orb falls from her hand to the ground, and before she can reach it again, she is pulled backward on her stomach until she finds herself at Valeria's feet.

The traitorous Nightsister lashes out, a surge of magick wraps coiling around Merrin's arms and legs, keeping her from fighting back. There is a wild look in her pale blue eyes as a long and thin knife materializes in her hands, ready to strike. Their eyes meet for one second, and Merrin curses at her while trying to break free from her bonds.

"We both know that I am stronger than you..." Valeria taunts while she raises her arms above her head, the knife pointing towards Merrin's abdomen. "Die now!"

Merrin stares back with anger, unwilling to agree with her former friend. The blade reflects brightly from the sunset, the sharp end descending rapidly until it comes to an abrupt halt. Valeria groans in frustration, her hands pushing the knife deeper while she glares with wide eyes, confused.

The young witch keeps her palms upright, using the Force to prevent the incoming blade from piercing her skin. It takes every muscle in her body to concentrate and keep the blade in place, with Valeria pressing even harder while a frustrated scream escapes her lips.

"Disgusting Jedi tricks! These will not save you!"

Her sentence is cut short immediately as Valeria flies across the scenery, her back hitting the walls of the temple while the Second Sister's attention is now drawn towards the small ship. She begins to cut through the reanimated corpses with more intensity, driven by the image in front of her.

Cal barely stands, his right shaky hand stretched in front of him while Orin supports his body from the other side. The Second Sister screams in rage as she jumps towards him, only to be pulled down by green strings of magick, her body falling to the ground with a painful yell.

Merrin is on her feet, watching Cal with wide eyes while a quick smile flashes on her lips. There is no time to linger here any longer, she suddenly realizes as she gestures for them to return to the ship. Before the ship's ramp closes, she carefully picks up the orb from the ground and holds it tight in her grasp.

"Hold on to something," Orin warns as he takes control of the vessel, the engine humming loudly while it begins to ascend into the sky, leaving their enemies to struggle on the ground.

Merrin takes a second look as the temple begins to grow smaller behind her, a sudden feeling of regret invading every fiber in her body. She raises the fractured orb up high as she begins to chant a spell she only practiced once, the metal around them vibrating as a fiery neon veil travels across it, concealing it from the eye of their enemies.

The ship relatively small for the three of them, so she invites Orin to step aside, taking control of the vessel while she inputs their next destination into its charter. The Frenzied River Clan is located far east, and it will take at least a few hours until they reach their settlement. But still, it was better than nothing, and once they reach the clan, she will be able to fully ingest exactly what had transpired moments ago.

The only positive outcome from this whole challenging situation is that Cal is somewhat awake, though his state seems to waver as Orin informs her that he can barely stand or talk. Still, he saved her life back there, and she intends to thank him properly as soon as they land.

A few minutes pass, and Orin joins her side again with a loud sigh, watching her from his seat with a deeply worried expression. She takes note of his stare and gives him a raised eyebrow, inviting him to speak.

"What do we do now, Mother?"

"Now we hide. The dead will keep our enemies occupied while we escape," she replies with a mournful stare, already regretting defiling her sister's resting places.

"Mother... may I ask, how many graves have you opened with your spell?" Orin's expression shifts from worry to curiosity. Fear replaces his interest as soon as he hears her answer.

"All of them. As I have said, Orin, the dead will keep them busy for a while. Even those who fought against us are now helping our cause. Like Fey..."

An uncomfortable silence falls between them, the ship gently shaking as it flies across Dathomir for what seems like a very long time. Eventually, Merrin breaks the silence with a sad smile, her eyes wandering towards the back of the ship for a moment. "How fares my husband?"

"He is awake but still weak. He can barely keep his head upright," Orin replies in a defeated voice.

"Good. He will have plenty of time to rest and recover once we reach the Rivers."

"Do you truly believe this? That we will have any time to rest and gather out strength?" he dares to question her with a more lively voice, a hint of something resembling bitterness peeking from under his words.

Merrin thinks about his question as she fails to respond, still deep in thought, while he excuses himself swiftly and leaves her side. She can sense the doubt in his mind but does not blame him for lashing out. After all, in the short span of a few hours, their clan was brought to its knees again by a ruthless regime that will only seek from now on to find and destroy them.

Nevertheless, all Merrin can do now is blame herself once more, berating and cursing inside her mind for being so foolish from the start. Allowing the Nightsisters so much freedom and equality had backfired intensely and now she finds herself on the run with only two people she can completely trust by her side.

Chapter Text

A low groan manifests from his mouth as he tries to open it wider, only to find himself unable to do so. There is a dull pain radiating in his entire jaw, and he tries to move his head, the sharp sting of pain preventing him from making even the most basic movements.

His lips are dryer than the Jedha desert, and he forcefully licks them in a desperate attempt to hydrate himself. It feels as if he's sitting on a cloud, suspended high in the sky. It doesn't take long for him to come to his senses, his ears catching the small movement by his side.

Someone is holding his hand so tightly that he feels his blood beginning to pour back into his extremities as soon as he wiggles his fingers, the other hand retracting immediately. With a gentle touch, he recognizes Merrin's presence beside him, her delicate fingers brushing the side of his face.

The gesture makes him swallow a dry lump in his throat, ignoring the faint sting of pain as she quietly caresses his probably swollen cheek. He can't feel the left side of his face, and he doesn't know whether to be glad or begin to worry, but at the very least he's still alive. Badly injured and barely kicking, but...whole.

"Merrin..." his voice is incredibly weak, similar to a low whisper, but he powers through, stubborn to speak again even though he fears she might not hear him. "Where are we?"

"Shh...take your time to heal and recover. There is much to discuss, but for now, know that you are safe," she replies in an incredibly soothing voice, unlike anything he has ever heard from her.

"Hmm, safe..." he murmurs again, exhaustion setting in his entire body with each strained word. It becomes so hard to keep himself awake and alert, his body once again betraying him as he drifts off intermediately into a profound sleep.

When he wakes up again, his entire mood is changed, the extreme exhaustion replaced by a more clear and serene state of mind. He's still lying in a bed, but he's now completely aware of his surroundings, and he even manages to lift his head and scan the room for any noise. It seems he is also surprisingly alone, and for once he doesn't mind the quiet as he has plenty of time to remember why he's here in the first place.

The sting of the whip is ever present on the skin of his back, the painful memories of his torture making him shiver under the covers. He wonders how long it took for the Nightbrothers to realize they were abusing his unconscious body until they left, no doubt thinking they managed to kill him.

Jedi or not, ever since he was a small child, he was taught in their ways to endure in silence, to bury his pain and his feelings deep down, and to be grateful for the life he was given. There are many here who suffer in silence, the world oblivious to their pain. You must take their example if you wish to become one of us and carry our burdens, he remembers Volis instructing him how to suppress his strong emotions before he lets himself fall prey to darker thoughts.

A feeling of shame and regret creeps under his skin, remembering his wild behavior right after he was attacked. The sheer power he felt as he angrily lifted one of his attackers from the ground and began to squeeze the life out of him still haunts him, the definitive sensation of absolute control both scaring and fascinating him.

He quickly pushes his thoughts aside, reminiscing about his teachings. As a monk, he swore an oath to harm no one and advocate for peace no matter the conflict. Yet his survival instinct begged to differ, and he begins to reason that his own desperation to live caused him to do such a forbidden act.

Never again, he promises to himself as he takes a shaky breath and tries to move his legs. Being confined to a bed for what he assumes is many days has started to make him feel like a vegetable, and he craves to feel the soil under his feet as he groans loudly, the bed creaking under him from the sudden movement.

His feet guide him slowly through the room, the Force warning him about the incoming table and the chair to his right. He avoids them with slow steps while he feels the wooden door in front of him with his palms. This place seems strange; the air around him is so different, cleaner, and lacking the distinguishing smell of the Nightbrother village.

So many things have happened while he was asleep, with the memory of their escape still confusing him to no end. One minute he was being tortured by Nightbrothers, and the next, he was protecting his wife from imperial agents and her sisters. Everything seems so strange, and he has a lot of questions for Merrin as soon as he finds her.

It doesn't take long for him to hear her voice, and Orin's, to his surprise, both whispering while he exits the room and straightens his back, an involuntary groan capturing their attention towards him.

"Cal! You are awake!" Merrin's gentle arms are already on his shoulders, the warm touch comforting him despite his sudden back pain.

"What did I miss?" he sighs through pained breaths and begins to walk ahead until he finds a wooden chair and plants himself carefully on it. His mind is still clouded, and the sting on his back is ever-present, but he remains silent, refusing to express his discomfort.

"Many things, my boy... many things," Orin's voice sound defeated and broken, "I will leave the two of you to speak alone. If you need anything, I will wait outside with the other sisters."

Before the two of them can reply, he is already out, the slam of the door all but confirming his state of mind. Cal feels confused as he sits and waits for Merrin to speak, afraid to hear the bad news. Silence fills the room as he takes a deep breath and clears his throat, pondering his next words.

"Merrin...what happened out there?"

Her lack of immediate response makes his heart beat faster, a rush of anxiety mixed with regret washing over him instantly. He can hear her distressed sighs as she murmurs weakly under her breath, preparing to be the bearer of probably horrible news. The grip of her right hand tightens on his shoulder as she begins to speak, her voice filled with deep regret.

"Do you remember your vision? The one you warned me about in the swamps?"

"I remember," he swallows a tight knot in his throat and licks his chapped lips. "The hooded figure. Which one was it?" he ads in a depressed voice.

"It was Valeria who sought to destroy our entire clan. I fear she is beyond reasoning now..." her voice trails off, and he brings his own hand to comfort her, sensing the slight tremors in her fingers. It doesn't take long for a familiar, subdued sniffle and a shaky breath to confirm Merrin's fragile state of mind, and Cal leans closer, attempting to aid her pain.

"I'm so sorry. I'm not going anywhere. Talk to me," he whispers in a calm and gentle voice, his fingers drawing soothing circles on her tense skin while the tremors remain steady inside her muscles.

A deep sigh escapes Merrin's lips, accompanied by another low breath, and Cal understands exactly how she feels. Not long ago his kind was also subjected to a cruel massacre, but for Merrin to experience this twice, it seems the galaxy was out to get them both, an unusual contest by fate to see which of the two of them can suffer the most in such a short span of time.

"Isea and Lorys are dead, both killed by Fey who aligned herself with Valeria. In my rage upon hearing about the death of my sisters, I was the one who took Fey's life..." her voice trails off again, and she swallows a dry lump in her throat, refusing to continue for a moment. When she decides to speak again, her voice sounds dejected and cold, barely resembling the person he knows now.

"Kora's fate is unknown, though I suspect she is also dead. I am all that remains of my sisters for now."

Cal remains silent for the next few minutes, unsure what to say. A million thoughts swirl inside his mind, still unable to realize the tragedy that once again befell the Nightsister clan. Not long ago, these women had been regarded as the fiercest warriors in this galaxy, only to fall victim to their own kin. It seems Valeria is indeed unreasonable, and Cal fears her alliance with the Empire might bring the downfall of the remaining clans and the entire planet sooner than later.

"How is this even possible? I thought the Nightsisters were as loyal as they can get," he manages to finally speak, still deeply confused.

"Desperation and hatred pushed Valeria to do the unthinkable, though her betrayal still hurts, as abrupt as it was," Merrin laments from her side, the silence that follows her sentence unnerving Cal to the core.

"This is all my fault..."

"No. I had plenty of time to realize that Valeria's mind had been set long before you arrived on Dathomir. Whether your presence here truly pushed her to do the impossible is debatable, but I truly believe she would have betrayed me nonetheless. Perhaps it is better she revealed her true nature so quickly."

"Maybe. But we have to do something. We can't just sit around and-" Cal jumps on his feet, the pain is his back traveling like a burning sting all the way down his legs, and he lowers himself back on the chair with a painful hiss, cursing his injuries under his breath.

"Sit down before you injure yourself more! There is nothing left to be done... The Empire has already siezed control of the entire valley, and their soldiers are advancing fast. It will not take long until they find us here," Merrin keeps her hand softly on top of his, the warm gesture almost masking her incredibly discouraged voice.

"So you're just gonna give up, just like that? The Merrin I know doesn't back down from a fight! We have to try and contact the rest of the Nightbrothers!"

"I admire your optimism, Cal, but as it stands now, this is the end for my people. This village is safe for now, as I placed a concealing spell not long ago, but in time it will fade, and we will be exposed again."

"Where are we?" he begins to scan the environment with the Force again, feeling the inside of the small hut currently serving as their new home.

The interior is small, and he can barely sense the outside; the air around him is strangely soothing and clean. He takes a deep breath, smelling the nearby room filled with a salty aroma, someone cooking no doubt, while his stomach growls loudly upon imagining the taste of the delicious food.

"The Frenzied River clan," Merrin raises herself on her feet quickly and begins to walk near the door. "Come. There is someone who wishes to meet you."

Cal nods and agrees to follow her, groaning loudly as he stretches his legs and begins to walk ahead. Each step is a grim reminder of what he suffered, but he endures the pain bravely while he follows Merrin until they are outside. The scenery sounds calm, with the clan members all minding their own tasks while small children play around them, blisfully unaware.

Merrin stops suddenly and grabs his hand, gesturing for him to step in front of her. Someone is sitting next to him, their presence through the Force incredibly strong and similar to his Jedi friends. He feels lightheaded for a second, wondering if his senses have gone mad, but he shakes his head and steps closer, the pull of the light side of the Force all but confirming what he suspected as soon as he sensed it.

"You're a light side user," he speaks in a confused voice, his eyebrows furrowing on his face.

"Quite the perceptive senses you have, though I would not expect anything else form your kind. I must say, I am impressed," the woman replies in a strong voice, her adornments clinking as she steps forward and takes his hand into her own.

"My name is Kaya, and I am the eldest healer of this clan. I already know who you are, Cal Kestis, as I was the one who tended to your wounds before tragedy struck your clan. Merrin has told me of what has unfortunately transpired."

"We were betrayed by one I considered my closest kin. She now stands to rule what remains of my clan with the Empire by her side," Merrin ads bitterly form the side, a hint of resentment and anger dripping between her words.

"And what does this Empire want?" Kaya asks with curiosity, withdrawing her hand from Cal's as she props her staff on the ground and waits.

Merrin remains quiet, unsure how to reply, and Cal also tries to formulate a sentence, only to find himself now knowing what to say. Truth be told, he has no idea what this Empire really wants, aside from the fact that all Jedi were now considered traitors to the Republic and that everyone who helps them is killed or taken as prisoner.

"Your silence speaks more than words. I always feared this day would come, yet I never realized just how soon our fates would be changed forever. There has been a massive shift in the living Force not long ago, one that I fear will alter our history forever, though I cannot sense whether it will be for the better or for the worse..." she declares in a stern voice while she quietly excuses herself and leaves.

Kaya's declaration hangs in the air as both of them remain quiet, pondering her words. Cal always relished in how he senses the world around him, how he managed to navigate his surroundings with the help of the Force, but now as he listens to the healer's understanding of the Force, he realizes he barely even began to scratch the surface.

These people have such a deep connection to the Force, stronger than even the monks on Jedha, and he feels humbled to be in their presence, regretting not being able to document his discovery. A clan of light side witches on a planet that scared even the most adventurous scholars seems almost fitting, and he smiles weakly as he remembers his friends, wondering if they would be scared or proud of how far he's gotten.

"We can't stay here..." he declares in a deeply disappointed voice, turning his head to face Merrin's presence by his side while taking note of her unusual silence. She releases a subdued sigh, the sound reaching his ears with crushing defeat and frustration while she shifts in her spot.

"I agree. It is far to dangerous for us to stay here, and I will not endanger more innocent lives. As much as it pains me to say it, it is time we depart Dathomir," she replies in a steady voice, this time resembling more of her old self.

A surprising reply, Cal straightens his back upon hearing her words, and he leans closer to whisper in her ear. "I'm sorry... for everything. I really am."

"Why do you apologize to me, husband? You have done nothing wrong," she cups his cheek with her left palm, the warmth radiating from her skin comforting him while he thinks about her proposition. A few weeks ago, leaving Dathomir would have been a saving grace for him, but now, he unexpectedly and reluctantly considers not leaving this damned place.

So much has happened in such a short span of time, yet if there was one thing he did not regret, it was meeting Merrin. As scary as she seemed the first time they met, he now feels rightfully bound to her in both body and soul, her presence filling the lonely space he never knew he had in his heart.

"Where will we go?" he asks in an uncertain voice while he takes seat on a nearby wooden crate, his legs aching form standing for so long.

"I am afraid I do not know many worlds besides my own, Cal. This is why I trust your judgment in finding us a safe place where we may rest and recover our strength."

"Well, I'm not exactly the right man to ask this, but I think I might know just the right place. It's quiet, and it's barren, perfect for hiding while we recover. Though I don't know exactly how we're gonna get there, unless you have a transport ship just lying around."

"As a matter of fact, I do happen to have one," she strides in front of him. "Do you not recall how we escaped?" she ads in a bemused tone, her fingers tenderly playing with a lock of his hair.

"I don't remember much, but what I do remember is Orin slapping the life out of me and you needing my help..."

His sentence causes Merrin to stop fidgeting with his hair, her sudden closeness in front of him making him anxious. He can feel her warm breath on his skin, sense her undeniable scent, and hear her sweet murmurs as she inches closer, her hand cupping and raising his chin while her soft lips bush past his. He hesitates for a moment, unsure what to do next, but ultimately decides to raise himself upward and bridge the small gap between them, their lips now united in a tender kiss.

A weak sound from the side makes them both pull apart fast, both flustered and embarrassed as Orin clears his throat again and steps closer.

"I apologize for the interruption, Mother, but Kaya has informed me of your departure. Do you need help preparing the ship?" he sounds defeated and severely disappointed, and Cal wonders if he quietly resents Merrin for everything.

"There is little to be done for now, but I do expect you to be ready for our immediate ascent," she commands, leaving Cal's side to reach Orin.

"I am afraid I will not be joining you on your journey, great Mother."

"What? Why?" Merrin grows restless in her place.

"This village is safe for now, and with your incoming absence, I strive to help wherever I can. Valeria and her imperial friends will scour the entire planet for you, and it is better to warn the other clans of the incoming danger."

"You resent me for my actions..." she declares with a heavy sigh, her sudden silence making the atmosphere a tinge uncomfortable.

"I could never resent you, Mother, but I do begin to reflect on how our decisions impact everyone and everything around us. Perhaps it is better if you do leave and rediscover what it is that made you worthy of being our leader in the first place."

The proposition sounds almost insulting to Cal's ears if he didn't know better who made it in the first place. Truth be told, he senses no judgment or hatred behind Orin's words aside from the hurtful truth. Nevertheless, he keeps his opinion to himself as he hears a disapproving scoff from his spouse, the declaration evidently insulting her.

"Perhaps you are right, and as much as your words offend, I do find the truth behind them. Very well, Orin, I shall leave you in the capable hands of our neighboring sisters, and I will not return until I am certain I am prepared to face my enemies."

So this is it, Cal raises himself from his seat. Never in his life did he expect such a rush of anticipation to travel through him as he thinks about their incoming journey. It seems only him and Merrin will travel together, and the thought already fills him with deep anxiety. Sure, he spent time with her back in the village and inside the library, but those moments were few and far in between, and he never expected her to be by his side constantly.

What if she doesn't like his company? What if he talks in his sleep and scares her? What if they both find themselves without anything to talk about?

A million what-if's bombard his mind, and he tries to focus as he bids his farewell to Orin and follows her back to the ship in complete silence. He likes Merrin a lot, and he has a good idea she likes him back too, but the seed of doubt is still present in his head, refusing to let him enjoy his new unexpected predicament.

There is also the matter of their next objective, with the planet already set in his mind. If there is one place safe enough for now to bring Merrin to, it would have to be Jedha.

Chapter Text

Traveling to a sacred Jedi planet next to what can only be described as one of the fiercest dark Force wielding witches in the entire galaxy was not on Cal's ever growing list of things he's never done before. Even as they ascended into the clouds, his mind was still clouded, but reality soon took place as the ship entered hyperspace, and silence surrounded him instantly.

The ship's engine hums quietly, and the small area only allows for one person to sleep at a time. Before he could even begin to protest, Merrin already declared he would be the one to occupy the small bed, or else he would feel her full wrath, and now he finds himself laying on the small cot, unable to sleep.

Small movements, that he can handle, but it's the dull pain in his back that gives him trouble, constantly reminding him of his torture session. He tries to think of other, less fortunate souls who would have probably died if they endured what was done to him, and the thought fills him with gratitude toward the Force and his psychometry.

He also wonders what will happen to the Nighsister clan now that the Empire has cemented their rule on the dangerous planet. The wildlife will surely give them a lot of trouble, and he smirks to himself, imagining imperial soldiers running from whatever abominations roam freely into the dark depths of Dathomir.

"You are supposed to be resting," Merrin scolds him as she places herself on the edge of the bed.

"Can't sleep. My brain won't let me," he murmurs under his breath, amused by the sudden wave of exhaustion, making him yawn immediately.

"Do you wish for me to aid you? I can conjure a spell-"

"No. No spells, please," he interrupts with a mildly alert voice. Cal hates losing consciousness and control, remembering how woozy and lightheaded he felt as soon as he was taken from the bounty hunters' ship.

"Hmm, as you wish. How are you feeling? Are you in any more pain?" her voice shifts to a more nurturing tone, and she traces a gentle finger down his back until it reaches his lower spine. The ticklish touch makes him twitch, and he gives her a small smile.

"I'm okay. It still hurts, but I can't complain. I made it out alive, and that's all that matters. How about you? Are you okay?" he turns his head to face her, feeling the shift of emotions inside her as she struggles to maintain her composure.

Cal knows how difficult this subject might be to her, and he tries to be gentle about it, but no amount of gentleness can heal what is undeniably a broken heart. Her sister's unexpected betrayal will do nothing but make Merrin bitter and angry, so he keeps his mouth shut as he waits for her to speak, preparing himself for her inevitable response.

"I...manage. I do not wish to speak of what has happened anymore."

"Okay," he replies qucikly, sensing the stiffness in her voice as she shifts further from him, leaving a cold space between them.

The engine's gentle hum fills the silence between them, and Cal tries to think of a better subject to talk about, but his mind can only come up with so much. A hiss of pain and a low groan capture her attention again as he tries to stand once again, determined to plant his feet on the ship's floor.

"You are relentless. Are all monks so eager to endure pain?" her tone feels soft and a bit playful, while she wraps a delicate hand around his waist to help him.

"It's not about the pain. A good friend of mine once told me something, and I try to live by his words every day," Cal finally manages to place himself near her, pushing through the stinging pain on his back.

"What did he say?" Merrin grows closer until their shoulders meet.

"Well," he straightens his back and extends his right hand, searching for hers. He keeps silent until he finds it and gives her a gentle squeeze, their fingers now carefully intertwined.

"He told me to survive, no matter the cost. At first, I didn't understand why he said it. Everything I was taught was gone in seconds, and for a short time, I blamed him for leaving me all alone without guidance. But after everything that's happened, I finally understood what he meant and why the Force brought me in front of you that day."

"You think it was destiny that brought us together?"

"Destiny, the Force, maybe something we both can't understand, but...yes. I do think you and I were meant to find each other, one way or another."

There is a moment where Merrin remains silent, and Cal fears he might have said someting wrong. After all, the two of them were as opposite as it can get when dealing with the Force, and he wonders if she believes it as well. Two completely different people, one who serves the light side of the Force while the other derives her power from the dark side.

A perfect harmony, Cal realizes as he serches for her presence, and he gives her a qucik smile while his heart begins to pound hard in his chest with anxiety caused by her unusual silence. The sudden jolt of the ship stopping dead in space can only signal their arrival to Jedha, and he takes a nervous breath as he keeps his hand tightly on hers.

"We have arrived safely," she finally replies, the sound like music to Cal's ears.

"Good. Go to the ship's main panel and search for a monastery on the east side of the planet, near two large statues of Jedi. There should be a smaller one hidden from the Empire's radar right under a massive cliff."

"Are you certain we will find this place?" the doubt in her voice fills him equally with a small tinge of uncertainty. He had never ventured east, and the monastery in question was only mentioned once in passing by an elder monk who told him that the place was truly abandoned decades ago.

"Pretty sure. I've never been there, but I know for a fact that the place is safe."

"So you have never visited this place, you do not even know its exact location, but you are sure it is safe."

"Yeah." Another wave of complete silence makes him shift nervously in his spot. Cal's absolutely sure the place exists, even if he's never set foot on the sacred ground. The monks never lied, and if even one of them believed this place was real, he has to try. Time is running out, and with the Empire dominating the galaxy right now, this safe haven will have to be real, otherwise, they are doomed.

Deserts are supposed to be warm. In all her life living on Dathomir, the cold was never an issue, and the desert side of the planet was even hotter, with the burning sun ensuring its warmth. But Jedha was a complete mystery, and the more they walk, the more she can feel her skin prickle with tiny bumps as quiet shivers travel all over her body.

It defies every logical aspect of her life to be surrounded by sun and so much sand, yet to feel so cold. Merrin sighs loudly and wraps her arms around her torso, desperately trying to capture some warmth.

"Sorry about the cold. Here, take this to cover yourself," Cal stops as soon as he hears her and extends his arm. There is a thick, dark brown material resting on his palm, reminiscent of old Nightsister garments she once saw in the archives.

She quickly pushes her thoughts aside and grabs it, wrapping it quickly around her shoulders. It feels both soft and comforting at the same time, and she voices her thanks while they continue to walk ahead.

Merrin's mind is troubled, but there is one matter she keeps thinking about—something that prevented her sleep for days even before she was betrayed by Valeria. With everything that has happened so fast, she barely had time to think about it, but now, surrounded by silence and even more stillness, all she can do is think.

Cal is a good man, a perfect mate for her in every aspect, but there is that one thing that still stands between them and their true feelings—his freedom. Ever since he was brought to Dathomir, she tried to make his life as pleasant as possible, but his angered words as they fought for the first time still haunt her, reminding her of his unfortunate position.

It was without question that he cares about her, with his brave rescue ensuring both her safety and their lucky escape. Yet Merrin's mind is constantly focusing on him, and she stops abruptly, her gesture making him also stop. He turns to face her with a confused look on his face, waiting patiently for her to voice her troubles.

"I wish to tell you something, Cal."

"Can't this wait? I sense a sandstorm coming from behind us. We need to keep going and find shelter if we want to avoid it."

"No. I—" she stops and swallows a tight knot in her throat.

"You okay, Merrin?" he inches closer, worried, but she extends her arm, warning him to keep his distance.

"I wish to set you free. I understand you are content in your position now, but I cannot continue like this. It does not seem fair towards you," the words leave her mouth fast. Her hearts begin to dance faster than she anticipated, and she stares at him, observing as his expression shifts on his face with a plethora of emotions.

"Okay, I'm free. Thanks," he shrugs, replying in a calm tone. "Now, can we please move on? I really hate sandstorms, they make everything around me fuzzy."

"You do not understand what this means! If I set you free, you are no longer bound to me. You are free to leave and choose another as your mate. We will no longer be husband and wife..."

"Why would I wanna choose someone else?" Cal steps even nearer, now incredibly close to her.

"Because you can. I do not know if you wish to resume your duties as a monk or if you wish to pursue other things in life, but know that you are free to do so."

"And what about you? You keep saying that I should do this or that when my mind's already been set, but about you, Merrin? What do you want?"

The question stirs a set of mixed feelings inside her, rendering her speechless. What does she want? Many things, she ponders, staring at the man in front of her with silent contemplation. The revival of her clan would be one thing, and to see that traitorous Valeria burn in flames would also be nice, but above all, she never realized she yearned for one thing above all—her own freedom.

Being a matriarch to an entire clan is definitely taxing on both her body and mind, and despite her broken heart, she can't help but feel somewhat...liberated. Free from all the crushing burdens and the responsibilities of leadership thrust on her from such a young age. Free to do whatever she likes, whenever she likes it, and with whoever she wants it with.

Free to be with Cal without judgment from her own kin.

The wind picks up behind them, the sand dancing around in small whirls as the air begins to thicken. Cal grows restless in his spot, waiting for her response. She places a gentle hand on his shoulder and nudges him to turn around.

"Come, let us find shelter before we find ourselves covered in sand."

Cal gives her a quick nod and turns without protest as he continues to walk ahead of her in complete silence. Merrin wonders if he feels as disappointed as she is with her lack of response, but the matter can wait, at least until they find a safe place to rest.

As they walk ahead, the scenery begins to change, and the once distant rock formations now stand tall in front of them. Her eyes wander over the strange rocky terrain as the wind picks its pace even faster, the sandstorm no doubt approaching rapidly from behind. There is a small cave under the large cliff, perfect for the two of them, and she alerts Cal of its presence, though, truthfully, she knows he's already aware of it.

The fire feels warm and comforting as they make camp in the small, damp cave. Cal is unusually silent as he remains seated in front of the flames, his fingers fidgeting with the ends of his shirt. Merrin places herself next to him, trying to read his expression. The contemplative look on his face can only mean one thing, and she sighs, hoping to draw his attention to her.

When nothing changes, her lips form a thin line, incredibly disappointed by his cold demeanor. Her words have without a doubt placed turmoil in his mind, dazzling him. She tries to put herself in his position and think about his predicament.

Being forced to marry a complete stranger was hard enough, but the realization that they both shared feelings for each other changed everything, and now that they finally have a chance to be together with no pressure coming from all sides, she messes up by setting him free, even though she never really considered him anything close to a slave, and telling him that they are no longer bound together.

A very confusing ordeal, and she doesn't blame him for being so distant all of a sudden. Her mind is also preoccupied, but his question still stands, and she decides it is better to answer now than leave him hanging for so long.

"Existence on Dathomir is not simple, as you have discovered little of what it has to offer. After the demise of my people, there was a moment when I truly believed I would not see our clan thriving again," her words are calm, finally drawing his attention. He shifts closer and pays attention as she begins to speak again, this time louder.

"My responsibilities as leader of my clan have made me wary and afraid of strangers, and I valued tradition above all else. But everything changed after you arrived, and my perspective has shifted drastically over these few weeks. What was once considered a sworn enemy is now sitting by my side, and I have made friends with clan members I would never have dared to even speak to."

Cal's expression softens as his eyebrows rise on his face, and he remains quiet, waiting for her to speak again. She can see the change in his behavior, his shoulders dropping and his hands relaxing again.

"What I wanted was never an option. There was always what was best for my people, but I never put my wishes first, and by doing so, I now realize how little I have lived my life."

"Believe it or not, I feel the same," he replies in a small voice with a hint of regret peeking from under it.

"How so?"

"Opposed to you planet, life as a monk was very simple, and there was little to do outside reading scrolls or keeping the archives safe. Most of the time we would just sit around in silence or meditate, maybe play some games outside. Our lives were dedicated to serving the Force and its allies, and by doing so we denounced everything else that might distract us from achieving true peace."

"In fact, the only time we would get some excitement was when we would discover ancient scrolls or data-disks, and I would use my psychometry to decipher their meaning, but that was it," he ads with a bitter smile, the corners of his mouth dropping as soon as he finishes his sentence.

"Then I suppose we were both trapped in our lives..." Merrin interjects, suddenly feeling less lonely in her own skin.

"Yeah, something like that."

A gentle smile flashes on her lips, fueled by her new found desire to discover more of this enormous galaxy. The Empire taking hold of Dathomir was inevitable, and she admits it is better they fled the planet before Valeria and the Second Sister managed to find them both. She only hopes that Orin is still alive and waiting for her return as she decides that when she will ultimately set foot on Dathomir again, she will put an end to Valeria's foul deeds and perhaps even challenge tradition again.

"But that doesn't mean we have to be anymore," Cal adds with a gentle smile, the declaration interrupting Merrin's train of thought. "We can finally live, and maybe—" he stops, biting his lips suddenly as he inhales, taking in more air than necessary.

Merrin takes note of his uncomfortable expression, shifting closer to him until their shoulders brush. The gesture seems to break his trance, another weak smile flashing on his lips while he stares through the fire. There is also something else lingering in his expression, a sentiment that she feels hovering above them, a certain need that they both feel.

Her hand brushes past his, the touch enough to entice him, and he exhales loudly, swallowing a tight knot in his throat and clearing his voice. The air around them thickens with anticipation, her eyes glistening as Cal's lips part.

"Merrin, I...you know I've never done this, right?" he says in a timid voice, his cheeks slowly but surely gaining a faint reddish color. "I—ugh, maybe I shouldn't have told you that..." he runs a shaky hand through his hair, the conversation clearly making him distraught.

"I figured as much," she smiles playfully at him," though I too must confess that I have never been with anyone."

"That's surprising," Cal's eyebrows rise on his face. "I always assumed since you were their Mother that...you know..." he waves his hands suggestively, refusing to elaborate.

"Many have assumed that, but no. As surprising as it sounds, I have never indulged in what my other sisters took so easily," Merrin's smirk widens, and she hums, amused by Cal's awkward behavior, discreetly getting even closer to him. He feels her presence, his whole body stiffening, and her smile drops, wondering why he's suddenly so tense around her, though she has a small idea exactly why.

"There's something you should know," Cal states in a serious voice, "something that happened right after we had that fight. I never got the chance to tell you, with everything that’s happened, so I figure now's as good a time as ever," he takes a deep breath, his lips now set into a small frown.

Merrin’s expression shifts, a small bubble of worry forming inside her chest. Cal's nervous behavior, paired with everything that has happened so far, makes her assume something truly terrible must have happened. The anticipation as Cal takes his time to speak makes her nervous as well.

"Remember our fight?"

Merrin nods, quickly shaking her head, remembering he can't see her quiet gestures. "Of course, I remember. I apologize for being so brazen, husband. If that is what concerns you, then—"

"No. That’s not it," Cal stops her, waving his hand dismissively. "Remember how you left me with Valeria alone and left?"

"Did she do something to you?!" she quickly rises from her seat, agitated, eyes wild. She begins to pace around the fire, blaming herself again for being so foolish to leave her husband in the company of what she now considers her worst enemy. Cal's silence makes things worse, her upper lip twitching as she stops in front of him. "Cal?"

"She might have... threatened me after you left," Cal keeps his gaze upon the burning fire.

"I am assuming this has something to do with the fact that she tried to kill you. What are you hiding, Cal?" she crosses her arms in front of her defensively, mentally preparing herself for whatever horrible things Cal might reveal.

"Valeria wanted me to provide for the entire clan, not just you. She told me that Fey wanted to sleep with me that night and that if I refused, then I would be held down and taken by... force."

Merrin's jaw clenches, the fire inside her beginning to burn intensely the more Cal reveals. She keeps quiet, her expression deadly serious as she gives him a cue to continue, never taking her eyes off him.

"She must have gotten really mad at me that I didn't follow her order, so she probably tried to cover her tracks by killing me and then blaming the Nightbrothers. That way, she could still double-cross you and strike when you were grieving, taking you by surprise."

"It appears so," the young witch's eyes burn with fire, the cave's dampness accentuating the sudden warmth emanating inside. Her hearts race, and for once, she tries to calm herself before lashing out, cursing Valeria's entire bloodline inside her mind.

"It is not wise to speak ill of the dead, but now that you have mentioned this, I feel less guilty for taking Fey's life. She conspired behind my back with Valeria from the beginning... and while she was my sister, I do not feel pity for her anymore."

"Merrin..."

"When I return to Dathomir—and mark my words, husband, I will—I shall face Valeria again. Only then will she truly understand what a terrible mistake she has made. I will make her beg for her life while I take away from her everything she tried to take from me, and by the time I am done, she will be grateful for the sweet release of death that I have granted Fey."

"Before you burn down the entire galaxy," Cal extends his hand, inviting Merrin to calm down and take a seat next to him, "let's just enjoy this quiet moment while we still can. I'm sorry I made you angry again, I didn't mean it."

She takes his hand, lowering herself next to the fire as he wraps his gentle arm around her, the raging fire inside beginning to simmer down with his touch.

"I could never be angry at you for this, but I do appreciate you telling me. It is no small feat standing up to a Nightsister, and you are very brave for doing so. But Valeria needs to be reminded of one thing."

"Oh yeah? And what's that?" Cal's lips turn into a cheeky smile.

"That you are mine, Cal Kestis. Whether the gods delivered you to me or it was simply fate that brought us together, I will not allow anyone to keep us apart."

"I thought you wanted to set me free," Cal adds playfully. "Isn't that what you said earlier?" his tone rolls out with a hint of bitterness behind it.

"And you are free... Free to keep me in your arms," Merrin inches closer, stroking the skin of his hand gently, "perhaps even free to kiss me, if you dare."

"I'm feeling pretty daring," Cal turns to face her, already feeling her hot breath on his skin as he leans forward, pressing the softness of his lips onto hers.

As soon as he pulls back, she wraps her right fingers at the base of his neck, pulling him in again, harder. "Kiss me like you mean it, monk."

Before she can realize what's happening, Cal's lips are clashing against hers, hard and passionate, almost as if he's doing his best to prove to her that yes, he means it this time. Their short yet intense make-out session in the library comes to mind as he continues to kiss her like never before, most likely eager to please.

"Never forget that you are a free man, Cal Kestis. Free do do as you wish, when you wish to do so," she pulls away and ads with a hint of tease in her voice.

"You keep saying that. But right now all I can think about is you..." he declares in a low voice, bridging the gap between them with an even more fiery kiss, her lips as soft as velvet as he inches even closer, daring to press them harder.

The witch doesn't protest anymore as a pressured moan materializes under her breath, her hands wandering dangerously close to his waist, her fingers playfully intertwined with his tunic. The air inside the cave feels warm and intoxicating, and Cal wonders if it's the adrenaline in his body that makes his entire body shake or if it's something else entirely, something new and exciting he couldn't wait to find out.

"Wait, what about our mission?" Merrin breaks their kiss suddenly, leaving him wanting more as he leans closer, only for her to place a steady hand on his chest. His heart begins pounding hard in his chest, wondering if she was having second thoughts about what will happen next.

"Maybe it can wait a bit longer... unless you don't want this?" he furrows his eyebrows, confused. The signs that Merrin was attracted to him were there, but Cal feels like he needs to ask again, just to make sure in case she changes her mind.

"No, I do! Trust me that I do!" comes out of her mouth a bit to fast, her tone incredibly sincere, and the rapid beat in Cal's heart begins to simmer down.

"Oh, okay… I thought—well since you said—"

"Enough talk! You still have a wish to fulfill towards me," she teases him playfully while she trails a wandering finger over his chest, the gesture making his ears burn along with his entire face.

"Force have mercy; I completely forgot about that."

"I did not. Now if you wish to find out what I truly desire, you must discover it slowly," her hands gently guide him on his back carefully until he is laid on the ground fully.

Merrin remembers the wounds he suffered not long ago, carefully guiding the brown piece of cloth Cal gave her to cover herself in the desert under his back, providing him with what little comfort she can offer in this circumstance.

Cal's not sure, but he has a fair idea his entire face is flushed with a deep crimson. Talking about it playfully is one thing, but actually doing the deed now fills him with a sense of anticipation like he has never felt before.

His mind wanders back to his wedding night and what could have happened if he didn't fall asleep, completely drunk. He never thought about it, but now, feeling how eager Merrin is makes him wonder if she felt completely disappointed that he didn't live up to her expectations. Still, she was, at that time, a complete stranger, and it would have probably been difficult for the both of them to perform under such immense pressure.

But now, having got to know her, the real her, he feels incredibly comfortable as she begins to undress him, despite the small shivers coursing through his body from the cave's cool air. Her hands are so gentle and warm that he can sense a pool of warmth gathering in his lower area, filling him with even more anticipation.

Her hands stop despite her proximity, and the sound of material shifting around him can only indicate one thing—Merrin is slowly but surely removing her own garments as well. A lough sigh and a deep breath catch her attention, and she releases a small chuckle while she places a comforting hand on his chest.

The cloth feels warm under him, with Merrin's hand only accentuating his strong heartbeat. She releases another approving noise while her fingers travel slowly until they meet the waistband of his undergarment, the gesture already driving him over the edge.

"Patience..." she whispers in an alluring voice, her fingers buried deep under the material.

Cal simply nods and keeps his head down, unsure if he should say anything at the moment. The back of Merrin's fingers keeps teasing the same area over and over again, until she finally decides to pull the material down, leaving him completely exposed.

A weak murmur emerges from his mouth, despite his lips being tight shut, the anticipation mixed with desire wreaking utter chaos in his body. He feels lightheaded, unsure why Merrin is so damn quiet, and he silently wonders what thoughts plague her mind or if she feels as excited or nervous as he is right now.

He receives a prompt answer to his burning questions straight away, with Merrin positioning herself neatly on top of him, the warmth of her body both pleasing and incredibly provoking. He can hear her subdued murmurs as she leans closer to his ear and places a tender kiss at the nape of his neck. Cal swallows dryly and licks his lips, eager to find out what she has planned to do next.

"Do you desire me, Cal?" she whispers, the words calm and soothing like a beautiful melody playing in his ear, followed by another gentle kiss on the side of his face.

"Yes, Merrin...yes..." he manages to speak out heavily, breathing so loudly it echoes inside the whole tall cave. He feels as if a raging fire burns inside of him, strong and wild, and only her touch can cool it down, extinguishing the flames ready to consume him whole.

"Then be mine," she continues to tease him with her tongue, nibbling at his ear playfully.

It takes every fiber inside Cal's body to remain still, to temper himself, and not let the fire break free. Merrin instructed him to be patient, and the reward might be even greater if he does just that, so for the moment he sits still, waiting for her next touch.

It doesn't take long for Merrin to notice the struggle inside him, and her hands wander down, groping and teasing with her fingers until his already half-hardened cock becomes fully erect.

"Aaah!" he moans out, lips parted and head in the clouds, while his hands wander aimlessly, searching all across her body. He can feel every curve and edge of her delicate skin, every perfect flaw right under the tip of his fingers, smooth and enticing.

Her touch feels intoxicating, and he craves for more as he instantly raises himself from the ground, in perfect rhythm with her hand. The tight grip on his cock drives him wild, with her thumb drawing smooth circles on his tip, and it doesn't take long until another pleasured moan escapes, this time louder and more desperate.

"Merrin... please, I can't—" he begs under his breath while he involuntarily licks the dryness on his lips and heaves, feeling like he's going to burst at the slightest touch.

"Soon, my love... soon," she lets go of him, the sensation of her release both cooling and slightly disappointing, taking all the pleasure with her.

Cal takes a deep breath and tries to calm his pounding heart, basking in the memory of her touch. He can sense her body light on top of his, straddling him as she takes his hands into her own and guides across her skin until they rest perfectly on top of her breasts.

His lips curl into a devilish smile, while his fingers palpate the smooth skin almost to eagerly, and he dares to give them a gentle squeeze, the sensation bringing a jolt to his cock, which twitches with anticipation underneath her. Merrin's soft moans echo in the now strangely warm environment, and Cal doesn't know if it's him or if she's doing something with her magick, but he can feel a pool of sweat forming underneath him, soaking wet.

It seems Merrin's words definitely hold truth to them, as his patience did indeed reward him with a feeling inside his gut resembling deep ecstasy as she begins to rock gently on top of him, her wetness bringing a whole new meaning to the word bliss.

She pays attention to his no doubt deeply pleasured expression and takes the opportunity to pin his wrists above his head while she captures his mouth with her own, subduing the loud moans coming from both of them. There are no other words that can describe how Cal feels right now, except for a few inappropriate ones—excited and aroused beyond his limit.

With a quick motion, surprising even himself with the speed in which he acts, he finds himself on top of her, his fingers digging deep into the skin around her hips. The encouraging sounds coming from her only worsen the deep heat between his legs, and he steadies his cock with one hand as he finds her entrance, the slick and warm feeling as he slides inside her activating something primal buried deep inside.

Cal thought he had a fair idea for what making love would feel like, but nothing in the entire galaxy could have prepared him for what he feels right now. His slow movements become more urgent as he loses himself in the moment, the intense pleasure overwhelming any rational thought. Merrin's hot breath on his skin does little to temper the fire burning deep inside of him, his pleasure rising gradually with each of his steady thrusts and loud moans coming form her.

Her hands travel across his chest, her nails digging into his skin as he tries to temper himself and prolong the euphoric sensation, but with each thrust going deeper and deeper, he finds it completely impossible. It also doesn't help that Merrin begins to wrap her legs tightly around his waist, pulling him even deeper inside her as she grabs a handful of his copper hair and tugs at it, her lips now busy sucking at the base of his neck.

Merrin's walls suddenly tighten around him, and she releases a strained sound followed by a satisfied groan, filled with ecstasy, and he swears he can hear her murmur something under her breath, though the sound is ineligible.

The finish line is now so close that he begins to feel incredibly lightheaded, and with a loud cry, he empties his seed deep inside of her, the warm sensation combined with her touch driving him over the edge completely. He doesn't even know where he is anymore as he collapses on top of her, the rhythm of her heartbeats strong in his ear, muffled only by the sound of his ragged breaths.

A comfortable silence now fills the cave, which only moments ago was filled with various degrees of pleasured sounds. Cal's body still reels from the unexpected but deep satisfaction he felt, and he tries to formulate a sentence, to say something to break the silence, only to find himself overly spent, tired like never before.

"Merrin, I—," he takes a shaky breath and tries again, this time better. "I love you," he manages to speak.

"And I love you, Cal," she replies quickly, her hands wrapped tightly around his body, caressing the skin on his back gently as not to harm.

Cal will forever bear a reminder of the savage beating he took in the Nightbrother village, one that almost took his life, but feeling Merrin's soft fingers traveling across his scars makes him realize how deeply he yearned for her touch, the same one that brought him back to the land of the living and saved his life. And now he feels incredibly ashamed for not telling her sooner how he felt before tragedy struck.

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner. You deserved to know how I felt from the start," Cal slides out of her, and rests to her side, breathing heavily while she shifts in her place, no doubt staring at him.

"And when did it start?" she asks curiously.

"I don't know exactly, but I think sometime right after our wedding. When we both started spending more time together," Cal declares in a more serious voice, slowly gaining his composure.

"I believe it was the same for me as well," Merrin hugs him tight, her right hand brushing a wavy strand of hair away from his face and tucking it behind his ear. She traces the side of his face, the tip of her nail playing with his stubble.

A kind smile flashes on Cal's lips, and he lingers in her arms, entirely safe. Not long ago he feared her and her magick, yet now he can't think of living his life without her. Merrin was without a doubt the spark of hope in his life, fueling him to be better and to live his life to the fullest.

Merrin's gentle caress at the the base of his neck sends a small shiver down his spin, the gesture lulling him to a peaceful sleep. He yawns loudly, the sound making Merrin stop as she withdraws her hand.

"May I ask you a question?" her voice draws his attention from the deep sleep currently trying to dominate him.

"Sure," he answers in a weak voice, trying to keep himself awake and pay attention to her words.

"What does a blind man dream about?" her question sounds sincere and filled with wonder, and Cal sighs with a small smile on his face, already prepared to answer.

"Well... I dream about the past, my childhood, or the echoes I've seen throughout my life. I wasn't born blind; a fire took my eyes when a band of raiders attacked my village many years ago. I was small, but I can still remember their faces."

"It must have been terrible to see so much death around you," Merrin's voice feels sad, and it doesn't take a smart man to know she's no stranger to the same type of tragedy despite her usual calm tone. Cal wonders how young Merrin was when her clan was decimated, but he decides it's better to keep the question at the back of his mind for now.

"Yeah, it was...but now I have better memories to dream about," he glides a soft hand down her right shoulder, the skin incredibly smooth under his fingers while a warm smile appears on his lips.

"It is good to hear that," she declares in a similarly tired voice, nestling her head near his while she remains silent.

Merrin's echoes had truly been a gift for his weary mind, and every time he dove into the past, whether it was only for a few seconds, he could always feel a sense of wonder through her eyes. She knew this as well, always making sure to show him the best things in her life, and with the memory of their first encounter lingering on her skin, he feels he can finally rest properly, hoping to eventually dream of her again.

Chapter Text

I'm not afraid of you!

You should be...

Cal wakes up with a jolt, his heart pounding so fast in his chest as he stands up, shaky fingers barely keeping him upright. He can feel the drops of sweat dripping from under his shirt, traveling all the way down his abdomen as a slender hand finds its way in his shoulder. It makes him flinch, still confused from his nightmare, the words haunting him as phantom fingers linger painfully on the skin around his neck.

"...Cal!" a different voice calls out, gentle and soft, nothing unlike the vicious one that stalks him. He tries to locate it, unsure where it's coming from as he hears it again. Merrin. It's Merrin who's calling him, he eventually recognizes her voice as he allows himself to relax and receive another gentle squeeze from her hand on his shoulder.

"I'm okay," he manages to respond in a shaky voice, trying to sound less agitated than he already is.

"You were talking in your sleep. I believe you had a nightmare."

Merrin could not even begin to imagine the night he's had, tossing and turning until he could barely feel he could fall asleep, followed by what can only be described as pure chaos. For him, dreams always took him to places he'd seen in the past, and for that he was grateful. He's always been careful with the echoes, and for the most part he had peaceful dreams, but sometimes he couldn't control them.

This time though, it felt so real, and even though he could not see her face, Valeria's threats and her strong hands pining him to the wall were enough to disturb him to no end. Magick was also something that he truly could not understand, and the feeling of helplessness as she began to weaken him with it until he could barely stand, made him incredibly frightful.

"What time is it?" he asks in a more strong voice, putting the dreadful nightmare at the back of his mind for now.

"It is morning already. The sandstorm appears to have passed as we slept, and the sun shines clearly outside.

"Good. It means we can move on without worry until we find that monastery," Cal rises from the ground, already busy packing for their journey ahead.

He tries to forget about his dream, but he feels Merrin's burning stare as he tries to ignore it, her expression probably worried. A hiss of pain escapes his lips involuntarily as he straightens his back, cursing himself for forgetting about his injuries.

"Are you certain this monastery is the right place for us to be right now?"

Merrin's words sound concerning, and he too wonders if they will truly find the place in time. The Empire's presence on Jedha was felt as soon as they landed, but he tries to keep an optimistic mindset and encourage Merrin to do the same.

"The Empire's crawling all over Jedha, and I'm not really sure why they're still here, since everyone's dead. Maybe they found something worth staying for."

"Maybe you are correct. I trust your judgment, Cal Kestis. Lead the way," Merrin declares in her usual stoic voice.

The journey takes longer than anticipated, but Cal feels absolutely sure this is the right place. Their shuttle is probably already half covered in sand, or confiscated by the Empire's Forces, so he needs to be certain. The air feels lighter and purer compared to the other sacred places, and as soon as his feet meet the cold, hard stone, he turns and faces Merrin with a wide grin.

"We're here! We found it, Merrin!"

"This is your most sacred place? It is wonderful," her voice sounds remarkably disappointed, and she grumbles under her breath, her face without a doubt sporting a displeased expression.

"Well, I can't tell if you're being sarcastic or not, but yeah! I think this is it!" he tries to sound less excited than he feels, his body practically vibrating with excitement upon finding the ancient place.

"There is something written above that threshold," she ads as she steps in front of him, guiding him towards the main entrance.

"What does it say?" Cal practically jumps in his place, all excited.

"I cannot read the language."

Oh. Of course, Cal sighs, realizing whatever it is, it is probably written in an ancient dialect foreign even to him. He reaches out with his hand, his fingers palpating the writing, hoping to recognize something. When he fails to do so, he reaches out further with the Force, allowing himself to grasp at the faint echo imprinted on the desolate walls.

In darkness, cold. In light, cold. The old sun brings no heat. But there is heat in breath and life. In life, there is the Force. In the Force, there is life. And the Force is eternal.

A sincere smile appears on his lips as the echo fades, solidifying the true nature of this place. In all his life, he had only made contact with one person who belonged to one of many places like this one, but the encounter left a significant mark on him.

"We're definitely in the right place..."

"You most certainly are," a stranger's voice interrupts their conversation, and he steps forward until his presence through the Force is clear and strong.

"Do not come closer!" Merrin is already alert, stepping in front of Cal as her hands lit ablaze with wild magick, and she warns the man to keep his distance in a low, menacing tone.

"Merrin, stop!" Cal places a firm hand on her shoulder, urging her to keep calm. "He's one of the Guardians of the Whills!"

"Ah, you must be one of ours," the man replies again in a soothing voice, incredibly calm.

"I am, or at least I was. My name is Cal Kestis, and I served as a monk in one of the monasteries from the west, near the desert ridge," he steps in front of Merrin and presents himself, hoping to defuse the tense atmosphere. "This is my wife, Merrin, a Nightsister from Dathomir."

The man keeps quiet, and eventually murmurs an approving hum under his breath. "And are you no longer one of us, Cal Kestis?"

The question makes him stop and think for a second. It is true that as a monk, he needs to be celibate and abandon all attachments to live his life, all those strict rules already disregarded long ago.

"Not anymore. As I have said, I broke the code not long after our people were massacred. I never thought I'd actually find anyone alive here, let alone a brother... who are you?"

"My name is Ymal Sun, and I am one of the few Guardians still left on Jedha."

His voice sounds dejected, almost sad, and Cal gives him an understanding nod, wondering just how many of them are truly left. Probably not a lot, he ponders while he remains silent, leaving Merrin to question the man.

"How come the Empire has not found you here? It did not take us long to discover this supposedly hidden place," her voice filled with justified suspicion.

"The monastery is not hidden, and all are welcome to visit as they wish. Who are we to stop our destinies from unfolding?"

Cal's expression shifts from sorrow to a more contemplative one, trying to unravel the man's words. The Force never failed to guide him, even at his lowest point, and he silently wonders if everything that has happened so far was with a deeper purpose.

The genocide of both the Jedi and the Nightsister clan could not be coincidental, not with both him and Merrin finding each other at such a defining moment in both their lives. So perhaps the monk was right, and there was nothing left to be done but wait and see what destiny has in store for them.

"Trust only in the Force, and the path will reveal itself..." he declares with a small smile, drawing the attention of Ymal towards him.

"Exactly."

"You knew we'd come...but how?" Cal now feels genuinely confused.

"It is not a question of whether I knew you would arrive or not. I simply put my faith in the Force, as I was instructed to wait for someone worthy enough to receive a very important message. One that I have awaited a long time to deliver."

"And here I thought us witches were cryptic with our customs. You monks are certainly far more dramatic," Merrin ads from the side in a sarcastic tone.

"Wait, you have a message for us? From whom?" Cal steps closer, his curiosity getting the better of him.

"Someone who desperately needs your help. A Jedi Master visited me not long after those men laid waste to our monasteries. She told me to keep this hidden, and to give it only to someone who can be trusted," he reaches out into his pocket and retrieves a small device, the shape familiar as it now rests in Cal's palm.

"A Jedi Master was here? So someone did survive the purge!"

"It is good to finally hear some encouraging news," Merrin places a comforting hand on Cal's shoulder, despite the masked, mournful tone in her voice.

"Dial that comlink as soon as you reach a safe world, far from this Empire's reach. It is of utmost importance."

"Do you know who's on the other end?" Cal places the device safely in his pocket as a rush of anxiety suddenly rises in his chest. What if they're too late and no one responds, or worse, what if it's a trap? His thoughts consume him as the monk's calm voice brings him back, filling him with a somewhat small sense of security.

"That you will have to discover all alone, I am afraid. I have done my part, and for now, I must return to my duties."

"You're still guarding the archives?"

"Someone has to. I bid my farewell to both you, Cal Kestis, and to you, Nightsister Merrin. May you find exactly what you are looking for," he declares in the same calm tone he assumed for the whole conversation, and before the both of them can even register what has happened, he is truly gone.

"I think we might have actually did..." Cal's voice trails off, garnering Merrin's attention, who strides by his side.

"Did what?"

"Find what we were looking for. Think about it, Merrin. A Jedi Master is probably still alive and needs our help. We were meant to find this place!" the excitement in his voice is deeply contrasted by Merrin's disapproving murmurs.

"I do not approve of this Cal. Perhaps this man is lying, and we will walk into a trap."

"I thought about that too, but it doesn't make a lot of sense. The Empire's already hunting Jedi and everyone who dares to stand against them. All this seems far too... complicated for them. Besides, I can always look into the past to see if this thing's real," he says, giving her a reassuring smile.

"Then I suggest you do so. Better to find ourselves disappointed now rather than later."

After all the suffering and betrayal, it makes sense for Merrin to feel suspicious of everything around her, and Cal agrees with her. One peek into the past surely can't hurt him more than anything from these past few weeks, and he holds the comlink tight in his palm as he places himself carefully on the ground and begins to concentrate.

At first, there seems to be nothing imprinted on the object, and he feels a bit disappointed for not being able to sense the echo. With the excitement of hearing that a Jedi Master was in dire need of help, he sometimes forgets not all objects carry echoes. But this one has to, and before he can abandon his quest, he feels it—weak but potent enough to reach out and grab it before it disappears for good.

Vivid colors and flashing light invade him, and he braces himself for the inevitable shock of seeing whatever horrors this unknown Jedi Master endured before she reached Jedha.

"Stay inside the cave. I'll draw them out," she stares at the face of a young woman with dark hair, her expression frightened as she holds another Rodian youngling in her arms.

"Master! Don't leave us!" the young woman wails in the distance, but she is already gone, running for her life as she tries to divert the soldier's attention towards her.

Her lightsaber feels so light in her hands as she jumps and plunges it into one of the Clone trooper's chest, ending his life instantly. There are more coming from all sides, and she fights with incredible strength, swinging her lightsaber from left to right until there are only dead bodies lying at her feet.

The echo begins to waiver, flashing white lights, sending the memory into various places. Cal tries to make sense of it, with only fragmented pieces reveling themselves. A painful capture, the Jedi Master yelling in pain as she is being tortured, and a black masked figure causing the scenery to erupt in pure chaos.

Nothingness fills the echo, and for a moment Cal thinks he's back to his normal self. But a weak voice, and a clear image replace the emptiness until a familiar sight materializes in front of him. The monastery looks similar but different enough from the place he grew up, and the Jedi Master advances through it with ease until she comes face to face with who can only be assumed to be Ymal.

"The Jedi are all dead. I can't stay here, but I trust you'll find someone good enough to give this to, when the time is right."

"What about you, Master Junda? Where will you go?"

"I don't know, but I'll figure something out in the meantime. Please, you have to promise me you'll keep this safe," she reaches out and gives him the small comlink.

"I promise I will guard this with my life. Go in peace, Master Junda, and may the Force be with you."

The memory is gone for good as Cal returns to the present with hopeful determination. Everything the monk has said was true, and for the first time in quite a while, hope begins to overcome him as he stands on his feet, determined to find this mysterious Jedi Master and meet her.

"Ymal was right. A Jedi Master really needs our help."

"Then let us return to our ship and resume our journey until we find her, Cal Kestis. It seems fate would have it no other way."

The Second Sister has never been one to gloat until she was absolutely sure of her victory, having conquered far more territories in the Empire's name than she can remember. Ever since she pledged her loyalty to the Emperor, her entire destiny changed, and her meaningless life finally had a fulfilling purpose.

But now, with the sweet taste of success on the tip of her tongue, all she can do is gloat. The witches of Dathomir had been reduced to ashes in mere hours, their clan leader fleeing the scene in shame and defeat. So much for fierce bravery, she scoffs amusingly under her breath while she eyes the horizon. But there is still that one thing that manages to ruin her good mood—the issue ever-present as she remembers Valeria's abhorrent failure—the loss of the Jedi.

There are so few left in the galaxy by now, and the Second Sister laments this incredible failure. Bringing a living Jedi to the fortress would have surely granted her immeasurable power and the Emperor's favor. Nevertheless, she will take this victory and be sure to announce that it was her alone that managed such a feat, without the help of another.

Valeria will have to remain alive for now, even though the thought of having a witch as her partner immensely frustrates and repulses her. The witches of Dathomir were mere savages, living their lives as if the galaxy had not evolved around them for thousands of years, but above all, the Second Sister understood that it was their magick that made them so powerful and dangerous.

In fact, if it were not for that disgusting primal manipulation of the Force, she would already have the Jedi in her grasp. No worries, as she intends to lay waste to every clan still daring to live on a planet that has been claimed by the Empire long before they even realized it.

With Dathomir now fully aligned with the Empire, it was time to begin their exploration. Perhaps this dreadful planet holds more riches than is visible, and the Empire's forces will stand to gain more than a handful of witches.

Valeria's footsteps grow closer to her location, and she hates herself for growing so familiarized with the darned witch. But her intel is still valuable, so she turns and faces the woman with a calm expression.

"Our scouts have yet to find her, but I assure you she is somewhere on this world."

"So sure of this, are you? Hmm... perhaps I am mistaken in believing you are of any use to me," the Second Sister cocks her head and eyes Valeria with a suspicious stare, her golden eyes piercing through her.

"Merrin has never left Dathomir in her life. I assure you, this witch would not dare to leave our world, let alone our system. She must be hiding in one of the neighboring clans."

"Then we will lay waste to them, and find her before she decides to grow bolder," a bitter grimace now rests on her face, incredibly dissatisfied with the news.

"No. It is far to dangerous to even approach the rest of the clans. We would be killed on the spot," Valeria's tone is serous, but the Second Sister simply disregards her worries as she inches closer towards her.

"I decide what happens next with the remaining clans. It would be wise for you to remember this while I still allow your presence by my side," her lip twitches while she eyes Valeria up and down with an intimidating gaze.

The witch remains silent, and all the Second Sister can do is smirk maliciously at her, forcing her to acknowledge her superiority. It was never in question, but the more the witch presses, the less she feels inclined to please her. Valeria has lost her leverage in this fight, and now all she can do is endure while the Second Sister claims her spot.

"I expected nothing less from someone who would betray her own kin without remorse. Now, if you please, there is a rouge witch somewhere on this planet, and I intend to find her."

Dathomir at dawn is far more dangerous than anticipated, and a low growl emerges from the Second Sister's lips as she cuts down yet another venomous spider. The damned things are relentless, stalking her from all sides, but a single swipe of her lightsaber is enough to cut through them like warm butter.

Her men begin to grow agitated behind her, with one of them even screaming in fear as another batch of spiders circles around them, and all she can do is sigh at his incompetence as the spider crawls over him, claiming his life.

"Begone, foul creatures!" her lightsaber downs the Bane-Backs with incredible speed, and she reaches out with her hand until the hilt returns safely in her palm. Another frustrated sigh materializes under her breath, the situation enraging her to the core. Her ship is quite close, but so far she's made no real progress in finding her target.

Disgusting witch! she curses inside her mind. All she needs now is focus and search for her presence through the Force, but the more they walk, the more her feet begin to tire, and she eventually stops, deeply disappointed.

This region is filled with mountains and caves, the terrain almost impossible to traverse on foot. It also does not help that she feels grimy and dirty, desperately yearning for a bath. So she gestures for her men to set camp, her mind trying to devise a quick plan before madness consumes it.

The witch is a coward, hiding on familiar ground. If this were any other circumstances, she would have already found her, but for now it seems the odds are in her favor. Not for long, the Second Sister ponders as she stretches her feet and allows herself to rest.

Valeria is waiting for her back at the temple, with the look on her face as she was denied to come along almost too good. But the more she thinks about everything that has happened in these past few days, the more her smile turns into a rigid frown.

The Empire has given her so much freedom and power, but above all, it has enabled her to be her true self without judgment from her own kind. A memory from a long time ago arises in front of her eyes, surprising even herself with its appearance.

Her life as a Jedi Padawan feels so distant, but from time to time, it reemerges without warning, almost taunting her. She resents the Jedi so much, and if she could erase the memories from her mind, she would do just that, as they bring nothing but pain and misery to an already troubled mind.

Is that how you consider yourself? Troubled? she thinks in complete silence while the question lingers for far to long without an answer.

But after a silent moment to reflect on herself, she decided it's better to leave her past buried. No use going on that path again, her old Master's face flashing in front of her for a second, enraging her. That traitor doesn't deserve to be remembered by her, and she scolds herself for showing even the smallest sign of weakness. Never again, she ponders as she continues her journey toward the nearest clan.

Valeria mentioned the Howling Crags as lowlife brutes and true enemies of the Nightsisters, and the Second Sister has little patience left for petty conflict. If the former leader of the Nightsisters truly hides here, she will not hesitate to purge the entire clan from existence until she finds her.

A silent arrow flies past her shoulder, planting itself on the ground behind her. It seems her presence here is not appreciated by these native warriors, who are no doubt preparing themselves to fight her. Little do they know what expects them as a wicked smirk adorns her lips, her golden eyes lighting up with anticipation as she draws her lightsaber in front of her and ignites the red crystal instantly.

Chapter Text

To Merrin's surprise, their ship was still in the same place they left it by the time they managed to trace their footsteps back to it. It seemed the Empire still had a long way to go until they could find this region, and she steps inside quietly while Cal makes himself comfortable on the small cot again.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but I couldn't wait to get back inside and rest. My back is killing me from all this walking."

"Do not get too comfortable, Cal; we still need to find that Jedi Master," Merrin takes a seat at the helm, already hovering the ship in the air until it begins to ascend into the clouds.

"Ymal said to find a safe world first and then dial. You think the Empire's listening?"

"Possibly. But now we have a more pressing matter... Where do we go?"

The question renders Cal silent for a moment, and she begins to think he truly has no answer. If only she had been more adventurous in her life, she would have at least had basic knowledge of other planets, but for her, Dathomir was the most important one. And now it stands conquered by the Empire, Merrin reminds herself bitterly while Cal's voice interrupts her deep thoughts.

"I don't know if it's exactly the safest place out there, but I remember Jaro Tapal talking about a planet that had a relatively long history of peace."

"Is a place like that even real?" Merrin brings doubt to the conversation, wondering how peaceful exactly a planet can be after what she has witnessed on her own world.

"I have no idea, I've never been there, but he way he described it just seems... like the perfect place we need right now. Somewhere quiet were we don't draw attention to ourselves."

"Very well, Cal. What coordinates should I enter then?" she hovers her finger over the control panel and waits for his reply.

"The Naboo system."

The journey towards Naboo took longer than Merrin had ever thought it would take. The hours spent inside the ship talking with Cal could only cover so much of the trip, and the rest was spent mostly in silence while she pondered their journey ahead. It also did not help that he was unusually agitated during his sleep, mumbling strange words under his breath yet again.

It was fairly obvious why he behaved like that, with Merrin remembering the moment she found him inside his home, only now truly realizing why Cal met that fate in the first place. Seeing the one you love in such a situation would break even the calmest person.

Merrin now knows exactly why her sister did it. Valeria always hated the Jedi, and this felt awfully personal, attacking Cal when he was most vulnerable all because he dared to defy her. A sudden wave of rage fills her body, remembering Cal's words and Valeria's disgusting threats towards him. If she had known...blood would have been spilled much sooner, and maybe, she could have prevented the demise of her clan.

Her eyes are fixed on the control panel, lost in thought until a small signal draws her attention. The ship comes to halt immediately as it exits hyperspace, gently hovering in the vacuum of space while a large, beautiful planet can be seen in the distance.

This must be the planet Cal has been talking about, and by first impressions alone, it seems beautiful enough. Of course, this is the second foreign planet she has seen so far, with Jedha failing to impress her by much, and her head begins to hurt just thinking about how many more others exist. A sudden flash of curiosity mixed with excitement washes over her upon realizing the plethora of unexplored planets just waiting to be seen.

"What happened? Did we arrive?" Cal wanders with a low yawn and plants himself on the empty seat next to her.

"Though our journey has been long, we have successfully reached our destination."

"Okay, so yes. Now comes the fun part. We need to find a remote town, unoccupied by the Empire."

"How do we do that?" Merrin is now confused. She truly believed all she had to do was maneuver the ship toward the planet, and now she has to find a seemingly quiet place on a strange world she has never seen before.

"I don't know. Try scanning the planet for imperial activity. I'm guessing they're already here as well," Cal shrugs nonchalantly, his fingers gently traveling over the console in front of him, playfully palpating the buttons without pressing them.

"Alright. But do not judge me if I do not find us something good, as I do not know this world."

"I won't. I promise," Cal replies with a sincere smile as he withdraws his fingers from the console and places a steady hand on his chest.

The scanner buzzes incredibly fast, already bringing a few small towns on the ship's map. Even if the Empire was indeed present on Naboo, it seems their reach was not as massive as they thought, and each of these hiding places would be adequate enough for the two of them.

So Merrin directs the ship as soon as she decides what path they will follow next. A small town on the southern side of the planet greeted them as the ship descended from space, revealing Naboo in all its glorious beauty. She takes a mental note to remember this moment, holding on to the steer with a tight grip as she guides the vessel toward what seems like an interminable amount of green grass. The image in front of her can only be described as a wistful paradise, only comparable with the stories she had read in one of her books not long ago.

This moment will forever remain embedded inside her mind, and she takes a quick peek at Cal, who is sitting peacefully besides her, waiting for the ship to land. She will make sure to bring him back soon after and place him at the helm, allowing him to experience the same wonder that she had moments ago for the first time.

"We have arrived, Cal. This location is remote, and there seems to be no imperial activity outside."

"Good. The less we draw attention, the better. Lead the way, Merrin," he rises from his seat with a serene look on his face, and she wonders just how much he's holding inside. With the beating he took, his back being the worst part, it must be very painful to even move.

But Cal seems to manage just fine, or at least he is very good at hiding his troubles, and a small part of her admires how resilient he is, even when faced with such pain.

The ship's ramp lowers, and before they even have time to register the departure from it, the vessel is already behind them at a considerable distance. All that remains now is to find a safe place to hide and hopefully manage to get into contact with that mysterious woman.

The Jedi have always been an enigma to Merrin, and she can't help but feel a bit taken aback by this sudden shift in her emotions. Not long ago, she deemed them her sworn enemy, and now, well...now she's married to one of their followers while actively trying to find more of his kind.

It almost seemed ironic if she hadn't found it fitting for her. All her life she advocated for change and for a better future without realizing her true enemy stood right at her side while her supposed enemy would be the one to open her eyes.

But now, being here on this foreign world, all she can do is admire its beauty. Green grass as far as the eye could see, accompanied by an almost too bright blue sky, while the trees around them emanated a strong but pleasant perfume. The buildings inside the town have such peculiar architecture that all Merrin can do is stare at them with a perplexed look, both fascinated and confused at the unusual shapes.

"Even the air is different here," she manages to add in a weak voice, staring at the locals, who seem to not even acknowledge their presence.

"I can smell it. It's fresh and strong, almost like Fire-Lilies," Cal stops and breathes in the air while a sweet smile crosses his lips. "Someone's cooking not far..." he faces her with a wider grin.

"I am also famished," Merrin replies almost too fast, her hand wandering until they reach her stomach as a low growl can be heard from within.

"We should find something to eat then."

Merrin first nods. Then she berates herself for always forgetting that Cal doesn't always catch the small signals she gives him through the Force and replies with a firm "Yes," remaining silent for a few moments.

Finding food was inevitable, and now they find themselves on an unfamiliar planet, running from the Empire with not even the slightest idea where to begin. Lucky for them, the small town was littered with various shops, and even a few establishments Merrin wagered were places filled with food. A secluded one catches her eye, the location somewhere near a large lake, and she drags Cal with her until they are both seated at a table, more than ready to finally eat.

The waitress is kind enough to leave a menu for them at the table as she leaves quietly, and Merrin brings the holopicture in front of her face, the holographic design depicting so many assortments she doesn't even know where to begin.

"What is a cush...nip?" the word rolls funny on her tongue, leaving her even more confused.

"I...really don't know. I think it's a pie? I've never had it."

"Yes, you did mention your monks only drank tea," she ads in a humorous tone.

"That's not true. We ate—just not fancy meals like these. We had a lot of vegetables, bread, and even more dried meat, but most of the monks chose to simply meditate as a form of sustenance. The tea was only there for relaxation, you know, to clear the mind."

"Then perhaps you should order some for us," Merrin closes in with a mischievous smirk on her face.

"No thanks, I'd rather eat...whatever that cush thing was," he quickly replies with a similar grin.

Merrin can't help but tease Cal about his vehement distaste for tea ever since he mentioned it, but silently she wonders if it was even that bad. So she dares to do the unthinkable and orders a cup of hot, sweet tea for her while Cal settles it is better to try that caf he kept hearing about from Master Tapal.

The food is delivered rather quickly, with the two plates of cushnip smelling so good it makes Merrin's stomach growl again as soon as the food is placed in front of them. Cal had indeed been correct about the nature of the dish, and she dares to pinch the soft dough with her fingers, the crust crunching with a satisfying sound under them.

"How peculiar..."

"I don't know about you, Merrin, but I'm starving," Cal leans closer to the food, taking in the aroma of the spices, his expression almost amusing if Merrin didn't feel the same. So she follows him quickly, digging in the dish with such speed that it's gone far too fast for her liking.

The tea, on the other hand, is still hot, and she wraps her fingers around the cup while she eyes the young man standing in front of her. Cal is savoring the meal slower than her, but she can read the satisfied expression on his face with each bite until the plate is completely clean.

"You have a little piece of food on you face," she speaks in a calm voice, reminding him of the small crumb of cushnip under the left side of his lower lip.

"Huh? Where?" Cal simply brushes the other side, completely unaware he's far from the real thing, and Merrin leans over the table until her fingers rest carefully under his chin. Her thumb gently traces his lower lip until the crumb is gone, the gesture making him freeze on the spot.

She stops instantly, her fingers still touching his skin while she stares, unsure what to do next. There is still an unspeakable yet undeniable attraction lingering in the air, despite them already consummating their marriage. He closes his eyes and sinks his cheek further into her palm while a deep sigh unfolds under his lips. His hands rest softly on top of hers, warm and comfortable, while he keeps his eyes closed, and Merrin realizes just how badly they both needed this. Just a simple touch has rendered the both of them spechless, and before she can say anything of importance, he moves his head as he opens his eyes, his attention solely on her.

"Merrin..." he stops suddenly and turns his head towards the lake, as if he could not speak anymore.

"What is wrong, Cal?" she leans even closer, unwilling to let him bottle his feeling inside anymore. She places a gentle hand on the side of his face and guides him back to her. "Talk to me."

"I don't want to lose you," his mouth sets into a saddened frown.

"Why would you lose me?" Merrin aks as she begins to comfort him slowly with her fingers.

"I don't know... I keep thinking about what you said back on Jedha, and I know why you said it. You felt guilty for forcing me to marry you. Back on Dathomir, when it happened, I didn't know you, and I did resent you a little for making me do something I never would have done in my life."

"But then I got to know you, the real you, and my resentment turned into... love. I know I'm not supposed to feel like this, considering my connection to the Force, but I can't help it."

"You fear the dark side," Merrin withdraws her hand with a mournful expression. For her, the dark side was never an issue, but for Cal, it could mean something far beyond her understanding.

"Well, that too... but right now I'm afraid of what comes next. So we find this Jedi Master. What if she wants to train me as a Jedi Knight? I can't hide my powers from her forever, and I certainly won't hide you from her either. She needs to know about our bond."

"You fear she might refuse our aid..."

"Yeah, something like that. Monks and Nightsisters don't travel together, and—"

"Survivors."

"What?" Cal raises his eyebrows on his face, confused.

"You said our kind does not travel together, but we are the same, you and I. Survivors of genocide who managed to adapt despite our hardships. If your Jedi Master is as wise as she claims to be, she will accept us as we are."

The sentence renders Cal silent. He stands still next to her, deep in thought as he gestures with a quiet nod. There are many subjects on his mind right now, and Merrin understands exactly how conflicted he must feel. Being a Jedi was a foreign concept for her, but to him it meant so much more than a simple title. His use of the Force was so different from hers, and she wondered just how many more skills he still had to learn.

Her attention is turned back to the now mildly warm cup of tea. Merrin takes a cautious sip from the cup, expecting the drink to be as dreadful as Cal described it many times. To her surprise, the beverage is sweet and light, the herbs inside reminding her of the medicines prepared on her home planet.

"This is not so bad," she declares with a genuine smile as she dares to take a larger sip, savoring the taste.

"You like it?" Cal replies, taking a sip from the now lukewarm, tiny cup of caf in front of him. He immediately contorts his face in displeasure, and sets the cup back on the table with a disapointed sigh. "Well, at least yours is better than mine."

"This is your total. I sincerely hope you enjoyed your meal, and if you did, please make sure to recommend us to your friends!" the waitress returns with a small card in her hand and places it firm on the table, interrupting their intimate moment. A small sum appears in front of them, and she begins to speak again, "Will you be paying in physical or digital credits?"

The question baffles Merrin, who simply stares at her with a bewildered look. Credits? What the kriff are those? she keeps thinking, waiting for Cal to intervene and resolve this matter. And surely enough, he steps in as soon as the waitress turns to face him.

"Oh, credits... sure, we have those," he starts to pat himself comically, his expression begging for pity as he releases a small laugh and faces the waitress with a false smile. "Well, that's what you get for letting a blind man carry a wallet, Merrin! I don't know where it is!" he blurts out while giving her a gentle kick under the table.

"What do you mean you do not know? You had it on you when we left!" she rises from her seat with a furious expression, playing along.

"I'm assuming you're giving me the stink eye. Look, it was in my pocket when we left, and now it's gone," he follows her gesture quickly, rising from his seat as he drags the insides of his pockets outside, revealing their emptiness.

"Someone must've stolen it form me. Is there any other way we can pay?" Cal's eyes are fixed on the table with false shame, with Merrin sensing the shift of emotion in the waitress as she contemplates her options, her mercy only amplified by Cal's incredibly convincing pitiful expression.

"I... I suppose the total sum is not that big. I'll speak to my boss to see what I can do. Wait here," she gestures with her hands in a regretful manner as she excuses herself and leaves inside.

"I think we should make a run for it," Cal declares fast, already by Merrin's side.

Before she can begin to express even the smallest protest, she is grabbed by the hand and dragged away from the establishment, running fast into the busy streets of the small town. There is a sense of adrenaline mixed with excitement running through her veins as she follows Cal down the street until they reach the end of the road.

There is a large bridge just above them, the scenery so beautiful and romantic that all she can do is stare with wide eyes. Cal finally stops to catch his breath as a strained laugh comes from him, followed by a tired sigh.

"I think we're good. I can't believe we forgot about money!"

"I do not understand why we needed to give them these credits in exchange for food," Merrin replies in a disapproving voice.

"It's just how things are here. You want something, you have to pay for it."

"But food should be free," Merrin ads in a more serious voice. This issue had never been raised on Dathomir, as all resources were free, and they managed to live their lives perfectly fine for centuries long before these credits were even invented.

"I know, and I agree, but not everyone feels the same. We had the same thing back on Jedha, but even there we had to pay for the transport ships to deliver us goods. The desert was barren, and we had to survive somehow."

"So in order to survive here, we need these credits?"

"Right now we're good, but it would be wise to find a way to make some if we decide to stay," Cal leans over the concrete railing separating them from the large lake in front of them. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, the cool breeze ruffling his hair as he contemplates their situation.

Merrin joins his side, looking once again at the young man in her company—her husband. It feels strange to even think about it anymore, and she feels slightly embarrassed by her declaration back on Jedha. At that time, setting Cal free felt like the right thing to do, but she never expected him to be so stubborn and outright refuse to leave her side.

It certainly wasn't fear or obedience that kept him close, and she understands that their bond truly seems unbreakable, with him even worrying that his own people might not accept him as he is right now. And yet, to her, the most important thing is that they are together, alive and well, enjoining what looks like one of the most beautiful planets she has the pleasure to visit.

But something at the back of her mind keeps bothering her, and she can't help but remember her promise. Dathomir is still under imperial rule, and the thought of Orin and the rest of the clans being invaded while she mingles on distant worlds makes her seriously doubt her decision to leave.

"What's on your mind?" Cal's voice brings her back to reality, and she sighs loudly while she leans over the railing to spot a peculiar fish swimming peacefully below them.

"Many things... I did not think I would miss my home so much, and yet here I am, wondering if my decision was correct."

"We'll go back as soon as we can Merrin, I promise," Cal's hand now rests on top of her so softly that she almost believes his words.

"Perhaps... or perhaps we will never return, and I will have failed my people in more ways than one."

"Don't say that. Nothing that happened was your fault," he shakes his head disapprovingly, a look of worry appearing on his features. He grows closer to her, their shoulders touching lightly.

"Only time will tell if our actions have been wise, Cal Kestis. But for now, we should resolve the matter at hand," she replies in a resigned voice, still thinking about her people.

"The Jedi Master. Right," Cal straightens himself as he takes a deep breath, seemingly cautious as he reaches for the small comlink stashed inside his robes. His fingers fidget with the device for a moment, unsure how to proceed.

"This open space is not safe for us. Come, let us find a more intimate area," Merrin declares while watching Cal with curiosity, as she has never seen his so wary of the outcome of his actions.

He simply nods without reply, following her until they reach an abandoned alley, devoid of citizens. A perfect spot for their important task, and she makes sure to scan the area for even the smallest threats while Cal plants himself on a nearby crate, still holding the device tight between his fingers. "Okay," he takes a nervous breath. "Let's see who's on the other end."

"I will keep guard while you speak Cal, but please hurry as I cannot say if we have been followed or not."

The device begins to dial, a strange sound emitting from it as Cal presses the button and waits patiently. There is an unnerving silence between them as they both wait anxiously for whomever is on the other end to finally respond.

A minute passes and the device still rings, but no one responds. So Cal tries again, despite the overwhelmingly disappointed look on his face. Merrin wonders if the Jedi Master is even alive anymore, as many months have passed since the genocide of Cal's kin. Hope is something she strives to keep close, but the more the device rings, the more she begins to lose it.

"No answer," Cal lets go of the button with a deep sigh, his lips now set into a sorrowful frown.

Merrin's eyebrows furrow on her face as she grows closer and takes a seat next to him. The crushing disappointment on Cal's face feels like a sting inside her chest, and she wraps her left arm around him, trying to comfort him.

"At least we tried," she speaks in a soothing voice as her hand begins to rub his shoulder, pulling him even closer to her.

"Yeah, you're right. Maybe she lost it or she's busy. Or maybe she's dead..." he sighs again, and Merrin understands his feelings all too well.

Cal remains with his head bowed, the comlink buried deep into his palm while they both sit in silence. Merrin feels a bit lost about their quest, as the probability of returning to Dathomir now is incredibly low. Staying on this world will have to suffice for the moment, and she knows they will need to come up with a new plan soon. But for now, she simply holds Cal close, offering silent support in their uncertain situation.

"We should depart and find shelter for tonight," Merrin declares with a sad smile, giving him a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder.

Cal nods silently, deep in thought, as he jumps to his feet and pockets the device. There is a sheepish smile on his lips, but Merrin knows better. Both of them feel incredibly disappointed by this unfortunate turn of events, but life goes on, and now their main goal is simply to survive.

"We can sleep inside the ship until we can get some actual credits—"

A loud beeping sound coming from Cal's pocket interrupts him, his body freezing in response. His hands shake badly as he fumbles with the inside of his trousers, his fingers reaching inside his pocket until he retrieves the small device, a look of genuine surprise embedded on his face.

"Answer it!" Merrin grasps his shaking hands into her own and brings the comlink close to his lips.

"Hello?" Cal's voice shakes almost as badly as his fingers, the anxiety and relief clearly getting the better of him as a loud silence surrounds them.

"Who is this?" a stranger answers shortly after, the voice vastly different from what Merrin imagined that Jedi Master sounded like.

"My name is Cal Kestis, and I've received this comlink from a member of the Guardians of the Whills named Ymal on Jedha. He told me to reach out on this comlink as soon as I'm in a safe place."

"Ohh boy! Hang on, kid, I ain't the one you need to talk to!" the voice grows weaker in the background as the panicked voice can be heart shouting on the other end, the man clearly stressed.

"Wait! Who are you?" Cal begins to panic as the stranger doesn't reply, the conversation coming to a halt while only static can be heard in the background.

The next few seconds are filled with deep silence as the both of them wait in complete anxiety. It feels as the whole world around them stopped, with the comlink becoming active again before any of them can begin to despair.

"Hello Cal, my name is Cere, and I'm the one who left the comlink on Jedha. It's good to hear a friendly voice again," the Jedi Master finally speaks, her voice firm and soothing.

"Ymal told me you needed help. I know it's getting harder to trust anyone, but I lived as a monk on Jedha most of my life, and you can trust me, Master Junda."

"A monk? Interesting... I think we should meet face-to-face."

"Wait, just like that? You trust us already?" Cal's eyebrows rise on his face in surprise.

"I've heard everything I need to know. Meet me on Aldhani as soon as you can. I'll send you my coordinates so we can see each other in person. We're staying on the north side of the planet in a small village near the Corus River."

"Aldhani, Corus River. Got it. We'll meet soon."

"I certainly hope so. May the Force be with you, Cal." She ends the conversation abruptly, the comlink dead in his grasp as soon as the coordinates are sent.

Leaving Naboo so fast was not in their plan. Cal wished to spend at least a few more days on a planet that was lauded by his former peers as one of the most beautiful in the galaxy, but the pressing issue of meeting with a former Jedi Master outweighed his desires, and now he feels incredibly empty as he climbs aboard the ship, ready to depart.

He understands exactly what's at stake, and that's why he didn't protest as he waited for the ship to ascend into the clouds, but deep inside, he can't help but feel incredibly disappointed.

However, if there was one thing that he truly did not expect, it was Merrin's surprising attention to detail. She carefully placed a rather breathtaking echo on the ship's helm and pretended to calibrate the engine long enough until he saw it in all its glory—a planet so beautiful it almost made him forget why they were even here in he first place.

The faint glimpse of her reflection in the ship's front windshield was also a highlight of his day, with him smiling like a fool for the rest of their journey when he remembered her face. Merrin stole his heart long before he even had the slightest idea of what she looked like, and now he can't help but want to see more of her.

"What troubles you, husband? You have been unusually silent for this entire journey," Merrin's voice draws his attention, bringing him back from his daydream.

"Nothing; I was just remembering something, that's all."

"It must have been a good memory to keep you quiet for so many hours," Merrin replies with a hint of curiosity and suggestion peeking from under her usual deadpan voice.

"It was..." he smiles absentmindedly, forgetting that even though he cannot see her, she can see him clearly as day.

"Judging by your large smile, I suppose it truly was," she ads in a humorous tone, the sentence making Cal's grin drop instantly, his cheeks burning hot.

"How long until we reach Aldhani?" he changes the topic quickly, trying to mask his sudden nervousness.

"Our compass indicates we are halfway though our journey. Perhaps we will manage to stay on this world longer than a few hours," Merrin announces in a surprisingly sad voice.

"I guess we'll find out as soon as we meet that Jedi Master. I just hope it's not a trap."

"Do you believe this woman to be a liar?" she shifts closer to Cal, and he can sense the suspicion in her tone.

"I don't know... what I saw in my vision was real enough, but what if it's not actually her? What if she got killed and someone else is pretending to be her to lure Jedi out of hiding?" Cal raises the question, planting the seed of doubt in his own mind as well.

"If that is the case, then we will kill her for daring to pose as one of you kind."

The tone in Merrin's voice prompts Cal to believe every word that comes out of her mouth, and having witnessed her deeds on Dathomir, he has no doubt that she will act exactly as she plans in case his theory is sadly correct. He, on the other hand, feels more inclined to mercy, even if the woman proves to be a liar, having grown tired of so much bloodshed.

"Well, technically, I'm not a Jedi, so… she's not really one of my kind. The monks served the Jedi as allies, but we were never a part of the Jedi Order officially."

"But you will be, if what she claims is true, is it not?"

"I-I don't really know how to answer that, Merrin. Yes, I can use the Force, but the Jedi have strict rules and don't know if I'm willing to follow their path just yet. Besides, if I'm to be one of them, I have to give up the one thing I'm not willing to let go of."

"Which is?" she is now incredibly close, her breath warm on his skin, her scent overwhelming him.

"You."

The answer makes Merrin click her tongue and hum under her breath, the silence surrounding them making Cal wonder what she's thinking about. Her presence is strong through the Force, but her thoughts are her own, and he keeps his attention solely on her, waiting for her response.

"Have I mentioned that our journey is still far from being complete?" she speaks in a low, sultry voice, leaving no space between them while she gives him a gentle nudge with her shoulder, the gesture making him smile.

"Yes, as a matter of fact, you did," a cheeky smile replaces the timid one he sported a minute ago, raising his eyebrow at her. "Why? Do you have anything in mind to pass the time?"

She chuckles lightly, placing a tender hand on his chest. "I might have a few ideas...some will even require a great deal of focus and stamina."

"Well, if there's one thing I know I'm good at, it's following instructions," Cal says amused, lounging on the cot with a devilish smile etched on his face.

Merrin doesn't hesitate to place a dominant hand on his chest, pressing him down further into the mattress. Aldhani will have to wait a bit longer because right now, she'll be too busy teaching her husband a plethora of new and exciting tricks, all courtesy of the more daring holobooks she used to read in those cold, lonely nights before she met him.

Chapter Text

Aldhani was a planet as barren as it was cold, yet it held something truly spectacular while Merrin's eyes wandered across the beautiful, green scenery, leaving the ship safely docked by the Corus river, as instructed by that mysterious woman.

Cal walks by her side in silence, holding her hand so tight as if he were afraid of losing her, and an amused smile flashes on her lips, remembering their intense yet beautiful moment a few hours ago. Having Cal as her husband was the one thing she did not regret, and having joined with him in both body and soul, she feels he's right where he needs to be right now—at her side.

The cold air sends shivers down her entire body, and if there is one thing she truly misses from her home, it's the warmth. All the planets seem to have a rather annoying feature in common, with the cold very displeasing to her skin, but she powers through silently, unwilling to complain.

"This place seems truly abandoned, and that is saying a lot considering we have visited your home planet not long ago," Merrin comments while her eyes travel over the barren small huts scattered all around her. The air is cold, and the scenery is filled with green grass poking through the fog, giving the silent village a rather unsettling atmosphere.

"It does feel really quiet. I wonder what happened to the villagers," Cal replies quickly, moving his head from left to right hoping to hear something.

"Perhaps they are still alive and have abandoned this village long ago... or perhaps the Empire has already been here, and they have not been spared."

"Only one way to find out," Cal steps in front of her, his feet guiding him toward one of the small huts.

He dares to enter, and Merrin follows him quickly only to find nothing of great interest inside. Whatever small belongings these villagers had were nowhere to be seen, with only a handful of rocks and destroyed furniture lying inside.

Merrin wonders if she was right the first time, and the villagers really did leave this place to their own volition without the Empire forcing them. The barren nature of the planet does seem to indicate a rather harsh environment to live in, and the locals probably relocated towards a more rich environment after depleting these one's resources.

Cal kneels on the ground in one of the corners, extending his hand while he stays completely still, focusing. Merrin smiles gently towards him, a hint of something resembling jealousy washing over her. Cal's ability to reach into the past seems like a hassle to those who don't know how to value it, but to Merrin it would mean everything.

What she would give just to have it for one day, to be able to reach into the past and see faces long forgotten, memories form a better life before...she sighs deeply realizing they were just that—memories in the past with no way of binging them back into the present. So she lets Cal do his job silently, and it doesn't take long until he's back on his feet with a depressed look in his face.

"You were right about the Empire coming here. These people were relocated against their will."

"It is disappointing to hear this, Cal. Where are they now?"

"I don't know. The echo isn't that strong, but I'm willing to bet it's not good," he adds with sadness.

"Now what do we do? Do we simply wait for this Jedi Master to find us?" Merrin begins to pace around the room.

"I suppose," Cal shrugs lightly, a puzzled look on his features appearing. "I'll try meditating, see if that works. If she's really a Jedi, she'll be able to sense me if she's nearby."

"A fine idea. I will keep guard while you meditate," she nods and takes place on one of the wooden chairs scattered inside the hut.

Cal takes her cue to do just as he said, and he kneels at the center of the room, palms placed carefully on his knees while he keeps his back straight, closes his eyes, and begins to concentrate. The young witch watches him with a glint in her eyes, intrigued.

She remembers seeing him doing a similar pose in he village not long ago, before she interrupted his meditating session. She also wonders if she could join him on some other occasion, rather curious about his technique. Was it similar to hers, or was it completely different, like his use of the Force?

A few more minutes pass, and Merrin keeps her promise, guarding the entrance while a sudden sense of boredom invades her body. Standing here while keeping guard becomes stale, and she gives Cal a curious look, his mind still locked in full meditation. Bothering him will interrupt the deep connection he no doubt has with the Force, so she diverts her gaze across the room, hoping to find something of interest.

Nothing but dust and sad memories lie in this place, and she sighs disappointed while she fixes her eyes on the door. Sooner or later someone will sense Cal through the Force, and she needs to be prepared in case the Jedi master or, worse, the Empire find their location. If the latter do come, it will simply mark another planet ruined by the likes of them, and Merrin curses under her breath, recalling Dathomir at its current state.

Valeria was irredeemable after surrendering her home planet to the Empire, and Merrin wonders if she's even still alive or if that ruthless imperial agent discarded her soon after they fled. The Empire seems to devour everything in their path, and on Dathomir it was no different. But if this mission is exactly what she hopes to be, they will at least have a fighting chance to stand against the Empire and potentially even drive it away from Dathomir for good.

All these questions do is plague her mind, diverting her attention way from the door, and she jumps to her feet as soon as she's aware someone is standing at the threshold, their identity concealed by a brown cloak. Her hands light up in green flames, and she takes a quick peek behind her to spot Cal in the same position, unaware of their presence.

"Who are you? Reveal yourself now!" Merrin steps in front of Cal, blocking the view, her flames growing larger by the second. She eyes the mysterious figure with malice, determined to protect above all.

"A Nightister? How strange," a female voice emanates from the cloaked figure. "I had a feeling there were two of you, but I never expected this," she dares to step closer.

"Do not dare to come closer, Jedi... or whoever you are!"

"There's no need to fear me. I think I'm the one you're looking for, though I believe you friend back there was the one to summon me, not you," she points toward Cal and then proceeds to remove her hood, revealing her face.

The woman is far older than both Merrin and Cal, her dark skin and intense brown eyes piercing through the Nightsister while her long braided hair is tied at the back of her head. She wears a gray tunic with brown trousers, a significant blaster holstered on her left thigh.

"My name is Cere Junda, and I'm the Jedi—"

"—Master we were looking for," Cal interrupts her from behind Merrin, his body stiff and his expression incredibly serious. "You found us through the Force. I guess you really are a Jedi after all."

"Exactly. It takes one to know one Cal, and I have to say, you called out out louder than I've heard in a long, long time," she declares with a small smile, daring to step even closer until she resides inside the room. "Did you really doubt I was a Jedi?"

"You never know these days," he ads in a bitter voice. "Better to be sure than to fall into a trap."

"Smart," Cere lets out an approving hum, her eyes wandering over to the interior of the hut, and Merrin keeps a close eye on her , her green flames disintegrating from her hands as soon as Cal gives her a reassuring nudge. The Jedi Master takes note of Merrin's easiness and approaches one of the empty chairs. With one hand, she raises it and takes a seat, her expression softening while the atmosphere relaxes for a bit.

"I have to say, the both of you are not exactly what I imagined meeting here. Though it's definitely a pleasant surprise... I thought the Nightsisters on Dathomir were all dead, killed by General Grievous. It's nice to see at least one still stands alive."

"I am Merrin, the Mother of my clan, and I assure you, Jedi, that there are more than one of us still alive!" the young witch declares with a strong voice, echoing through the air.

"I didn't mean to offend; I'm sorry," Cere raises her hands in front of her in a placating gesture.

"Don't be, but you have to understand that Merrin is a little on edge around Jedi. She firmly believes that one killed almost her entire clan only with his lightsabers," Cal interjects form behind her, hoping to ease the tension building up.

"If I can tell you one certain thing, it is that Generval Grievous was not a Jedi. In fact, he was an enemy of the Republic, a separatist monster who collected the lightsabers of my fallen brothers and sisters as trophies and used them against us," Cere grows restless in her spot, visibly angry.

"So that's what really happened. I knew the archives were incomplete," Cal speaks in a softer voice, deeply intrigued by this woman.

"All that resentment, all that hate, and we were led astray from the start..." Merrin lowers her tone, deeply disappointed and a bit angry.

She remembers that day very well, with the sound of the weapon and the smell of buning flesh deeply embedded in her brain, but she never expected all of it to be a lie. Mother Talzin always spoke of how dangerous and deceitful the Jedi were, but she never warned them about the real enemy, these separatist monsters who almost ended her bloodline.

"I'm sorry about what happened to your clan, Merrin. Nothing can be done to bring back your people, and judging by the fact that you're traveling with a Jedi, I suspect you know the current state of the galaxy right now," Cere gives her a sympathetic stare, her eyes now fixed on Cal.

"Actually, I'm not exactly a Jedi," Cal steps closer to the woman.

"I remember you told me you served as a monk on Jedha, but if that's the case, how come you weren't inducted into the Jedi Order? You're undoubtedly capable of using the Force, and your psychometry is even more rare."

"Well yes, but—wait...how do you know about that?" Cal grows closer to her steadily as he folds his arm across his chest. Merrin takes the cue and joins his side, also gazing at the woman with suspicion.

"You called me Master Junda when we spoke, remember? But I never told you my full name," Cere's lips now form a wide grin. "How else could you have known, unless..." she gestures with her arms knowingly.

"Yeah, I did," Cal declares in a weak voice and shakes his head, disappointed by his mistake. "So you came because you were absolutely sure it wasn't a trap. It all makes sense now."

"It's like you said, Cal. You never know who you can trust these days, and with the Empire only growing stronger, we need to stick together, now more than ever."

"So it is Jedi you are seeking, is it not?" Merrin ads, her shoulders dropping and her demeanor relaxing.

"Something like that... I tried to do the right thing once, and it backfired spectacularly. I found a holocron on a distant planet, hoping my days as a Jedi Master were far from over, but like all things that can go wrong, this one was the worst."

"What happened?" Cal asks, now genuinely curious.

"The Empire happened," she sighs deeply and continues to speak. "I thought that by training the younglings on that list that I would somehow manage to bring back the Jedi Order, but in doing so, I captured the attention of the enemy. I'll spare you the gruesome details, but one thing led to another and now... now I'm all alone. No more younglings, no more hope."

"The Empire killed them all?" Cal's eyebrows furrow with sadness, and he lowers his head in defeat.

"Not all of them. Some still live to serve the Empire now. Forced to do their bidding while fueling their anger for the people who let them down—the Jedi."

"But then why are you here? If your plan failed, why did you leave the message on Jedha? There's nothing me or even Merrin can do all alone to help if what you said was true."

"I left that message on Jedha before I started my quest for the holocron. Truth be told, I never expected someone to actually find it, but Ymal did his job admirably, and now... you're both here, when least expected."

Cere rises from her seat and peeks through one of the windows, seemingly cautious. She then turns to face them both in a hurry, her expression deeply worried.

"We stayed here longer than we should have... I have a ship not far away from here. Maybe it's better if we continue our chat back on the Mantis. My pilot can take us anywhere you want," she reaches for the door, only to be stopped by Cal's voice.

"Wait! There's something you should know before we go."

"Can't this wait? I'm sure it's not that important to keep us—"

"No, it can't," he interrupts her with determination. He takes a deep breath and continues to speak in a steady voice. "There's something you should know about us, or me more exactly, before we agree to whatever you have in mind."

"Okay... go on," she turns to face him with a confused expression.

"Yes, I can use the Force, and I think I'm somewhat good at it, but I'll never be able to be trained as a Jedi if that's what you're looking for. I've already broken the code more than once and renounced my oath as a monk."

"How so?" Cere gives him an intrigued stare.

"Merrin isn't just a friend of mine, a companion for the road. She is my wife, and I love her above anything else. I know the Jedi don't allow attachments, so I'm telling you this because I want you to know exactly why I'll never be able to join your ranks. I won't give up Merrin on the slight chance that the Order might be brought back," he searches for her hand and finds it, only to give her a gentle, reassuring squeeze.

"I see..." Cere lets out, her voice calm and collected, and she gives the both of them a curious stare while a sudden smirk flashes on her lips, gone before Merrin can see it.

"The Order is gone, Cal. Took me a while to realize it, so if you and your wife want to join our crew, I'll be more than happy to accommodate the both of you on our ship. The stinger Mantis resides on the other side of the river; it's a luxury yacht, you can't miss it," she turns to leave, exiting the door before any of them have the chance to respond.

The silence that follows can only be described as deep curiosity mixed with a hint of bewilderment from both Merrin and Cal, who sit in silence, unsure how to proceed.

"What do we do now? Do we follow her?" Cal asks in a sheepish voice.

"This Jedi Master seems to have spoken the truth, and she does not seem to mind the bond we share. Perhaps it is better if we do follow her. I grow tired of not having a purpose, and she might as well provide us with one worthy of our time."

"I think so too, Merrin. She clearly needs our help... so let's help her," he says, giving her a sincere smile and a quick peck on the lips.

The road ahead might as well be unknown for Merrin, but with Cal by her side and this unknown crew, she could start to feel hope again. Hope to see herself back on Dathomir with her clan, though when that will happen, she truly has no idea.

"Okay... so let me get this straight again—she's a witch for Dathomir, and he's not a Jedi? But he can use the Force?" a voice could be heard arguing in the background with Cere.

As soon as the both of them agreed to board the Mantis, they were greeted by a Latero named Greez. He protested loudly upon hearing about their predicament but eventually decided it was best to redirect the both of them to one of the couches inside the luxury yacht while he announced he had to have a little chat with his friend.

"I've already told you the details, Greez... yes, and yes. Both of them will join our crew from now on," Cere replied quickly, her tone resolute. Cal takes note of the sincerity in her voice.

Ever since he arrived on the ship, Cal had felt a strange sensation all around him. It wasn't unpleasant—if anything, it felt... comforting. Trusting his instincts, he sat silently next to Merrin, his senses tuned to the hum of the ship, listening for any signs of additional passengers. There were none. Only the four of them. Until a peculiar sound caught his attention, causing him to face the opposite direction.

"Did you hear that?"

"Hear what?" she replies, her curiosity piqued.

"That," he turns to face her while his finger points behind him, towards what appears to be the engine room. "It stopped now."

"Perhaps it is this strange ship," her eyes wander over the metal covering the entire environment until she finds a pleasant stop near the kitchen filled with various plants. She recognizes a few of them, with even one specific to Dathomir catching her by surprise.

"I don't think so... I'm gonna check it out. Wanna join?" Cal is already on his feet, his ears still attuned to the source of the noise.

Merrin casts a wary glance at the two strangers currently discussing inside the cockpit. It seems the Latero has gained the upper hand in the conversation, but the older woman replies quickly, their words mingling with the steady hum of the large ship.

"Let us be quick, husband, before our new friends realize we have disregarded their words," she rises from her seat and joins Cal while they both venture at the back of the ship, incredibly curious.

Cal thinks he's pinpointed the exact location where he heard the noise in the first place. The smell of rust and metal is undeniable, but something else lingers in the air, familiar yet strange at the same time. He's only sensed it once before, when Master Tapal came to visit many years ago, bringing one of his metal friends with him.

He can still remember the unusual sounds the droid made as they became familiarized, and it didn't take long until he began to understand their language, as peculiar as it was. The same smell of oil and plastoid could be sensed inside this room, and Cal feels as excited as he was on Jedha when he found new echoes.

He reaches out cautiously, his fingers tracing the edge of what looks like a visor. A quiet murmur is followed by a loud chirp, making him pull his hand back with a startled laugh. Another chirp draws him in again, and he extends his hand once more.

"What is this?" Merrin asks as she joins him, her tone genuinely perplexed.

"I think it's a droid. Definitely sounds like one," Cal replies with a faint smirk, his fingers busy examining the small friend in front of him.

"Boop!!" he ads loudly, Cal's smirk now turning into a large grin.

"It's nice to meet you, BD-1. I'm Cal, and this is my wife, Merrin," he says warmly. The droid whirs in response, his sounds expressive and joyful.

"He wants to know what a wife is," Cal says with a smug grin, turning to Merrin and waiting for her response.

"Are you not a machine? You should have extensive knowledge of such things!" she replies, her tone laced with mock offense as she gives the tiny droid an exaggerated glare.

BD-1 beeps and whirrs again, clearly processing her words. Cal's expression shifts to a mix of curiosity and bewilderment.

"What did he say?" Merrin asks suspiciously.

"Uh... he said it was nice to meet you too," Cal replies with a nervous laugh, quickly running a hand through his hair to change the subject.

"That is not what he said," Merrin retorts sharply, crossing her arms and glaring at both Cal and the droid with suspicion.

"Ah, I see you've already met the tiniest but fiercest member of our crew," Cere's voice startles them both. The couple turns quickly to find her leaning against the doorway, her arms crossed and a genuine smile on her face.

"Yeah, he's definitely fierce. And has a rich vocabulary too," Cal quips, though the corners of his mouth fall slightly as he feels Merrin's intense gaze boring into him.

"You speak droid too? I'm impressed, Cal Kestis. What else can you do?" Cere asks as she strides closer, her curiosity evident.

"What else can I do? Well... I'm pretty good at getting into trouble. You can ask Merrin about all that," Cal chuckles at Cere's question.

Merrin huffs softly, her arms still crossed. "This is an understatement. But yes, trouble does indeed follow him like a shadow."

Cere smirks at the exchange and she looks past them, directly at BD-1. "So, what do you think of our new crew members BD?"

BD-1 chirps excitedly, hopping slightly on its legs. Cere's eyes narrow playfully as she looks between the droid and Cal. "He's got more opinions than I expected. You seem to be really good with droids."

"I've never had one as a friend," Cal says, his voice tinged with melancholy as he recalls the last time he interacted with one. So many years had passed, and his mind drifted, wondering what had become of his Jedi friend, Jaro Tapal.

"Your Latero friend seems wary of our presence on this ship. His fear is unnecessary. We pose no danger to him," Merrin interjects in her usual cool tone, snapping Cal back to the present. He nods, approvingly if a bit distracted.

"Who? Greez?" Cere replies. "He's just... cautious," she steps closer, her expression shifting, reminiscing by old memories. "Ever since our base on Bogano was destroyed, we've been roaming the galaxy, just the two of us..."

"Then why ask for our help? Why not just keep roaming until it's safe?" Cal questions, his tone packed with a tinge of suspicion.

Cere responds with a bitter scoff. "If only it were that simple. Unfortunately, the galaxy is full of danger and untrustworthy individuals. I need people I can rely on—like you."

"What for?" Merrin steps closer, intrigued but maintaining her usual guarded demeanor, her piercing gaze locked on Cere.

Cere hesitates, her silence heavy. Finally, she gestures for both of them to follow her. Merrin takes Cal's hand, and a soft, sorrowful chirp sounds behind them. Cal smiles back at the small droid, a pang of sadness in his tone. "You really want this, buddy?"

"Boop..." the droid responds quietly, almost apologetically. But when Cal nods, BD-1 lights up with joy, hopping onto his arm and settling comfortably on his back. Merrin notices the interaction, her gaze curious but silent as they leave the engine room and head for the main hull.

Greez leans back on the sofa, his wary eyes following them. Cere sits beside him, motioning for everyone to join. Once they're all seated, she takes a deep breath and begins.

"As you know, the Emperor has declared all Jedi to be traitors. His rule is absolute, and his armies, especially his Inquisitors, are not to be trifled with."

"You've mentioned them before," Cal interjects. "These Inquisitors—who exactly are they?"

Cere's expression hardens. "Former Jedi who turned to the dark side. They feed on anger and despair to fuel their power. Ruthless... and beyond redemption," her voice falters, thick with bitterness.

"That woman..." Merrin whispers, her voice distant as she remembers the monster who decimated her clan.

"You've met one, then," Greez says, his concern evident. "I'm surprised you're both still standing."

"Yeah, we did," Cal answers grimly. "She came to Dathomir and claimed it in the name of the Empire."

The revelation makes Cere stiffen. Her eyes narrow as she leans forward. "What did... she look like? This Inquisitor?"

Cal hesitates, his expression suddenly uncomfortable. "I wouldn't know..." he laughs nervously, waving a hand in front of his face as if to brush off the question.

"Oh! I'm sorry, I didn't mean to—"

"It's fine," Cal interrupts with a quick, reassuring smile. "Not everyone can tell."

"She has cold, lifeless eyes, the color of gold, and black hair," Merrin says, her tone somber and deliberate. "There is nothing but hatred behind them."

The words seem to cut through the air. Cere's jaw tightens, her lips pressing into a thin line. She looks away, lost in thought.

"That sounds really bad," Greez lowers his head in defeat.

"It is. She has claimed dominion over our entire clan."

"And soon, the entire galaxy, if we let her," Cere dares to meet her eyes with a hint of hope. "That's why I need the both of you. Your husband has an extraordinary gift, one that can help us track down someone very important..."

Cal's eyebrows rise as he turns his head, listening closely to Cere's words. "There are places in this galaxy where some people still fight. Rebels who risk their lives to help wherever they can. A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon a message left by one of their agents."

"A message? What did it say?" Cal leans forward, curiosity growing, while BD-1 chirps something from his side, making him chuckle softly.

"He claims to have found something incredibly important. Something that could tip the scale of power and possibly... rival those of the Empire."

A sullen silence falls over the crew, their faces clouded with confusion as they process this new information. If there was even the smallest possibility of this being true, it had to be investigated. Cal frowns, his mind racing. Was this a trap, or had someone actually found something powerful enough to surpass the Empire's forces? His thoughts drift back to his deceased friends, questioning whether this was the right path to take.

Revenge was never what he had been taught to live for. But a small part of him relished this newfound sense of hope the message brought, even if it felt a little too late. Through the Force, he could feel Merrin's emotions too—strong and sharp, her lust for vengeance burning deep within her.

"Great. So we have our lead... now all we have is an entire galaxy to search for him," Cal lowers his head in defeat.

"Not exactly," Cere replies in a more lively voice. "I know it's not much, but the signal from where he recorded the message pinpoints his location somewhere on Nar Shaddaa. I mean, who knows how long it's been out there or if he's even there anymore, but I think it's worth a try."

"You really think he might still be out there? Waiting?"

"Stranger things have happened in the past, Cal. Who knows what we might find, but even if it's nothing, I think it's fair to say we at least owe it to ourselves to try," Cere gives him a gentle smile, her attention diverting back to the young witch near her.

"Besides, if we do find what we're looking for, it'll make our fight on Dathomir a lot easier."

Merrin's eyes light up with hope upon hearing the older Jedi speak, and a small smile forms at the corners of her lips, barely containing her newfound hope. Cere might be a stranger, and she still feels a bit wary around her, but nothing in her tone suggests she might try to deceive or harm, and right now for Merrin, it will simply have to do.

"All right! So I guess I'll just turn this ship around and head for Nar Shaddaa!" Greez jumps from his seat, stretching his limbs while he runs inside the cockpit a bit too fast. "Buckle up, kids, this one's gonna last a few more hours!" he yells from his seat, already maneuvering the ship into hyperspace.

Chapter Text

Their arrival on Nar Shaddaa was inching closer by the minute. Cal was busy making small chatter with his newfound friend, the small droid who kept asking him questions in his peculiar language, and all Merrin could do was stare, trying to understand him.

Cal was nice enough to translate his words, but she had a feeling much was lost in translation, and she felt now more determined than ever to begin to learn the language. A presence by her side makes her shift, with Cere strolling quietly next to them, a look of worry etched on her face.

"Is something the matter?" Merrin asks, noting her somber expression.

"Actually, yes. There is," her voice feels small, riddled with something resembling concern. "I know the Inquisitor who destroyed your clan. I've faced her before..."

Merrin's eyebrows furrow, leaving her confused. It seems there is something keeping Cere from speaking, and she wonders what it could possibly be. "Is she an acquaintance of yours?"

"She was a Jedi Padawan before the purge. She calls herself the Second Sister, and if there's one thing I know about her, it's that once she sets her goal, she'll do anything to achieve it. She is ruthless and will destroy anything in her path to gain even more power."

"You seem to know a lot about her," Cal interjects. "Are there more Inquisitors like her?"

Cere scoffs loudly. "I don't know how many, but I can tell you there's already more than they should be allowed to exist. They distort everything about the Jedi and their ways."

"Because they use the dark side?" Cal asks, curiosity lacing his tone. "Merrin's magick leans heavily on the dark side, but she's not dangerous. Not to me, at least."

"Because they crave power beyond the natural boundaries of the Force," Cere interjects calmly. "So no. Merrin's use of the Force is vastly different from ours. She controls it, never allowing it to overwhelm her. These Inquisitors, however, have been corrupted far beyond their limits, clouding their judgment and actions."

"What about that holocron? You mentioned on Aldhani that you found one and started a school..." Cal dares to press further, "I'm guessing it was the Second Sister who found you shortly after."

"That would be correct," Cere adds bitterly. "As for the holocron and what happened to it, all I can say is that it's gone. I destroyed it as soon as I left Bogano."

"I'm really sorry about your students, Cere," Cal says, leaning in closer, fully engaged in the conversation. "It must have been tough to try to rebuild, only for disaster to strike again. That must've been hard."

"I don't regret trying, though..." her voice trails off, heavy with sadness. "But I have a feeling the two of you have been through a lot as well since the Order fell. I knew the Jedi were branded as traitors to the Republic, but I never expected the Emperor to target everyone associated with us. I mean... how did you even escape?"

Cal inhales sharply, preparing himself to speak. "A batch of Clone troopers came to our monastery that day," he recalls, his voice thick with emotion. "But a good friend of mine helped me escape just in time. He sacrificed himself so I could run and hide," his demeanor shifts as the memory surfaces. "By the time it was over, everyone was dead, and the troopers left."

"That still doesn't explain how you managed to survive, let alone get married to a Dathomiri witch of all people," Cere remarks with a light chuckle.

"Cal is by far the most resilient person I have ever met," Merrin interjects, a pang of guilt evident in her voice. "The rest is entirely my fault. When my sisters captured him from a group of bounty hunters, I was given an impossible choice: kill him or take him as my mate. At the time, I was firmly convinced the Jedi were our sworn enemies."

"A lot has happened since. We got married, I almost died, then the Empire attacked while Merrin was betrayed by her trusted advisor. You know, the usual," Cal gestures vaguely with his hands.

"You almost died?" Cere's voice rises with concern, her eyes widening as she looks at Cal.

"Like I said, a lot happened," Cal nods, shrugging with an amused expression. "But that's a story for another time. Right now, we should focus on finding this missing rebel agent."

"I agree," Merrin adds, her voice steady, while BD-1 chirps approvingly, reminding everyone of his presence. "The sooner we find him, the sooner we can return home."

"I guess you're right. We'll have plenty of time to recount our stories once this mission is over," Cere says as she stands, heading quietly toward the cockpit.

Only Cal, Merrin, and BD-1 remain. The little droid chirps softly beside Cal, drawing a faint smile to his lips as he nods silently, lost in thought. Merrin watches the two of them with a soft gaze, wondering what they're communicating about. It seems they formed a connection the moment they met. Her thoughts drift back to the first time she encountered Cal and how different her life is now compared to then.

The witches of Dathomir and the Jedi had been sworn enemies for as long as she could remember. Yet here she is now, surrounded by Jedi. Cere appears to be an intelligent woman whose age reflects her vast experience. Whatever ulterior motives she may have had, Merrin can't deny the faint comfort she feels in knowing that Cere trusts her.

And she intends to repay that trust by helping her find this mysterious rebel agent. With Cal's psychometry, the task seems almost too easy. Merrin has faith it won't take long to resolve this issue and return to Dathomir. Preparations need to be made for her eventual confrontation with Valeria and the Second Sister, so any help she can get now is invaluable.

The Mantis departs hyperspace with a steady jolt as it descends into the atmosphere of Nar Shaddaa. The massive moon looms ominously ahead while Greez maneuvers the ship closer, his eyes reflecting a mix of admiration and apprehension for the notorious planet.

"Well... this is it, folks. Nar Shaddaa in all its miserable glory," he mutters cautiously, his gaze fixed ahead.

"We'll need to be extra careful here. One wrong step and we could all end up as cargo, or worse," Cere warns from her seat as Cal and Merrin join her in the cockpit.

"The archives on Jedha had records about this place. I once saw an echo from a bounty hunter who lost his ship here. It didn't end well for him," Cal ads with a serious expression, his arms crossed.

"Indeed. This place is crawling with bounty hunters and criminals. Blending in won't be a problem. Leaving quietly, on the other hand..." Cere's voice trails off suggestively.

"If concealment is what you need, I can assist," Merrin offers suddenly and confidently. She reaches under her robes, revealing her fragmented orb. Before anyone can react, her eyes glow with green fire, her lips murmuring a strange incantation as magick courses through the ship's walls.

"What—wait! What are you doing to my ship?" Greez panics, his eyes darting to the glowing magick.

"Let her do her thing," Cal reassures him, placing a calming hand on Greez's shoulder.

"But—"

"It's okay, Greez. She's not harming the ship," Cere speaks, her eyes following the shimmering neon green magick as it dissipated near the engine room. "What did you do?"

"It is a simple yet powerful concealment spell. Now, we will remain undetected by our enemies," Merrin explains, lowering her hands and tucking the orb back under her robes for safekeeping.

"A spell? You put a spell on my ship??" Greez turns to face her, his expression full of displeasure. "I'd better not see things moving around!"

"Relax, Captain. I don't think it's that kind of spell."

"Speak for yourself, Cere! If I see even one cup of tea floating, I'm out!" Greez gestures wildly with his hands before settling back into his seat, grumbling.

"Don't worry, Greez. I'll let you know if I see anything strange," Cal teases, smirking.

"Ha, ha. Real funny, kid," Greez replies bitterly, turning back to the controls. A soft chirp from BD-1 makes him glance sideways at the droid. "And who asked you? Let's see how funny it is when you start floating!"

As the Mantis approaches Nar Shaddaa's docking lanes, the cityscape spreads below them, a chaotic mess of neon lights, towering skyscrapers, and shadowy alleys that never see daylight. The atmosphere is packed with noises of running speeders and the faint smell of unknown substances. A moon that never sleeps, pulsing with life and danger.

"Alright, folks, we're coming in," Greez announces, carefully steering the ship into a docking port situated between two tall structures. The port is dimly lit, and the greasy haze of pollution clings to everything around them, ifecting very citizen to it's core.

"I sincerely hope you all appreciate the risk I'm taking here. This place is a nightmare for anyone with a ship," he grumbles as the Mantis settles down, the engine powering off with a low groan.

"You need not worry about your ship anymore, Latero. My spell will last through the entire day," Merrin reassures him in her usual cool tone.

"Yeah, yeah, got it. Spooky magick stuff is good now, apparently," Greez mutters, raising his eyebrows in mock surprise. A hint of sarcasm peeks through his grumbling, but it's clear he's at least somewhat relieved.

Merrin doesn't respond to his snark, only giving him a faint smirk before turning toward Cal. "Shall we?"

"Remember," Cere speaks up from behind them, her voice firm. "We're here to find the missing agent and nothing else. Stay focused. Nar Shaddaa isn't the kind of place to let your guard down."

"Understood," Cal says, already mentally preparing himself for the chaos awaiting them outside.

The landing ramp lowers, and the acrid, polluted air of Nar Shaddaa rushes inside the ship. The sounds of the city hits them next—a cacophony of shouting voices, blaring speeders, and the hum of machinery. The group steps out cautiously, boots clanging against the metal platform as their surroundings come into view.

Cal thought Dathomir was loud, with its strange, distant sounds signaling a very dangerous and lively wildlife. But he never imagined he would consider it quiet, until now. Stepping foot on this place, the rush of chaos overwhelms him. The sounds are so loud and grating to his sensitive ears that he pauses for a moment, struggling to adjust to the blaring noise. Nearby, a Trandoshan argues with a group of Rodians, their voices rising steadily, grating on his nerves.

"Great. Just like I remember it," Greez grumbles, peering outside while staying well within the safety of the ship. "Don't go too far, okay? I don't want to have to save your hides when you get into trouble."

"Don't worry about us, Captain. We'll be fine," Cere replies with a reassuring smile, turning to face the teeming crowds.

Merrin's gaze drifts to her husband, who sits unusually silent. Cal stands still, visibly tense, flinching slightly when she places a comforting hand on his shoulder. Concern flickers in her intense eyes as she leans closer to study his face, noting the unease etched into his young features.

"Is everything alright, Cal?" she asks softly.

He doesn't reply immediately, his focus somewhere distant. Her hand tightens gently on his shoulder, the pressure finally drawing him back to the moment. Cal nods silently, his shoulders relaxing slightly.

"Yeah, I'm okay. It's just...this place is so loud it's giving me a headache," Cal turns to face her, a sad but reassuring smile forming on his lips. "I'll be fine. It just takes a bit to adjust to all this," he gestures toward the busy city. "But thanks for asking."

"If you need anything, all you have to do is ask," Merrin ads, her voice filled with quiet sincerity.

"I will. Thanks, Merrin," Cal's smile grows warmer. Merrin returns the gesture, though a flicker of worry lingers in her gaze. She wonders if he truly understands how much he means to her.

They descend into the chaos of Nar Shaddaa, walking through the large city's streets with incredible caution, completely aware of the danger lurking around every corner. The streets are narrow, lined with makeshift stalls selling everything from alien fruits to questionable weaponry. Merchants shout at potential customers, their voices competing in a chaotic symphony of deals that sound too good to be true.

"We're getting closer to where the signal originally came from," Cere says, expertly navigating the long streets, with Cal and Merrin following closely behind her.

"I've never seen so many people gathered in one place," Merrin observes curiously, her eyes scanning the plethora of citizens moving through the packed streets.

"It's common for places like this to be overcrowded. Everyone's running from the Empire, and this is as good as it gets for most," Cere replies bitterly, halting abruptly to scan their surroundings. Her voice drops, her finger pointing ahead. "There! A patrol of stormtroopers. Let's hide."

The crew enters a secluded alleyway quickly, barely escaping the sight of the imperial stormtroopers patrolling past their previous location. Their white armor reflects the neon light scattered all around them, their masks concealing their faces as they cling to their blasters. Once they're gone, Cere sighs loudly, deeply relieved.

"It's getting worse on every planet we visit. I don't think I've been to one and not seen them everywhere."

"It is the same on Dathomir," Merrin replies in a somber voice. "However, those soldiers wore black armor, unlike the ones we just saw."

"We're lucky we didn't run into those. Purge troopers are far more ruthless and dangerous than your usual stormtrooper."

"You've faced one before?" Cal interjects curiously, with BD-1 chiming in to echo his interest.

"I have. Let's just say I barely made it out alive..." her voice trails off, unwilling to reveal more. "We should get moving before we lose the signal."

An uncomfortable silence hovers over them as they press forward. Cere's past is unknown, and Cal senses there's even more trauma hidden behind her words than she lets on. With the Jedi Order gone, massacred in mere hours, it can't be easy, and he completely understands her pain. But something inside him keeps him alert, wondering what other secrets she hides.

Whatever they are, he's pretty sure Cere will reveal them once she feels safe enough to do so. Until then, all that remains is to find this mysterious man. If what Cere says is true, the knowledge he holds is crucial to defeating or at the very least, fighting the Empire head-on. It's a risk worth taking, and Cal takes a deep breath, trying to calm his mind.

The long alley smells stale and repugnant, each step accentuating the dull headache pounding in Cal's head. He can't stand the stench but powers through, burying his nose into his shirt to dull it. BD-1 clings to his back, his tiny feet digging softly into Cal's skin, but Cal can't bring himself to tell him itslightly hurts. It's only a little sting, not unbearable, and he decides to ignore it, focusing on the mission ahead.

"Through here," Cere guides them into an abandoned building littered with decay. "This should be it..." her voice trails off.

The room is destroyed, bits and pieces of equipment scattered all over the ground. A strong, familiar smell lingers in the air as Cere's fingers trace over the destruction. There's little left to the imagination as they press forward, each abandoned room carrying the same demonstration of hopeless despair.

The stench grows almost unbearable for Cal, who stops, his nostrils flaring in disgust. One more room remains untouched, and as soon as they enter, they realize just how cruel the Empire can truly be. Bodies lie charred on the ground, their suffering ended long before the Mantis crew arrived on this world.

"Ugh," Cal's expression is a mix of sadness and nausea. He lifts his shirt until his nose is completely covered, barely muffling a small sound of discomfort.

"It is truly despicable what has transpired here," Merrin adds, her face mirroring his. She holds up a hand, fingers engulfed in magick, offering a faint light in the darkness.

"We're too late. Nobody survived..." Cere strides forward, visibly disturbed. Her fingers tremble as she bends down to reach for a dusty comlink. The device, surprisingly intact despite the destruction, completely unusable.

"Do you think he's here? Among the dead?" Cal asks, still adjusting to the room's smell.

"I honestly don't know. Judging by the state of these bodies, this could have happened weeks ago," she turns to give him a sympathetic look. "I guess there's only one way to really find out what happened here."

"Right," Cal nods, reluctant but determined to witness the horror. The mission comes first, and he pushes his fears aside as he steps closer to the center of the room.

He kneels in the center of the ruined room, the charred remains of the rebel base radiating an energy that pulls at him. His hand trembles as he reaches out, inviting Cere to hand him the broken device. BD-1 chirps softly, perched on his back, as if sensing Cal's hesitation.

"It's okay, little buddy," Cal whispers, though his voice carries little conviction. "We need to know what happened here," his fingers wrap around the device, and in only a few seconds his entire world shifts.

Flashes of light and sound assault him as the psychometry takes hold. The room around him is alive, the rebels moving with panic, their voices urgent as they shout orders to each other. A very tall man at the center of the chaos clutches a datapad, his cloak shifting as he shouts commands. Cal can't see him properly or hear the tone in his voice, but something about him seems...familiar.

Suddenly, the scene shifts. A powerful explosion rocks the base, sending the rebel soldiers to the ground. Smoke and fire engulf the room, and screams echo in Cal's mind as the ceiling crashes down. The harsh sound of boots resounds against the cold durasteel floor, followed by the hiss of a lightsaber igniting.

From the smoke emerges another Inquisitor, her crimson blade casting an ominous glow. Her dark armor reflects the chaos around her, and her voice carries a cold, mocking tone, while her golden eyes travel across the scenery, eventually setting on the man in front of her.

"Lyn, stop! You don't have to do this!" the man cries out, desperate yet hopeless to reach her.

"That's not my name anymore," she sneers, stepping over debris as her saber travels downward, cutting through a fleeing rebel. "Did you really think you could hide from us? The Empire sees all. The Empire knows all."

More chaos unfolds as unknown rebels fire their blasters in a desperate attempt to hold her back, but she deflects the bolts with effortless precision. Her strikes are brutal, calculated, cutting down anyone who dares to resist.

Cal's vision shifts again, narrowing to the cloaked figure. He runs between clouds of smoke, moving swiftly despite the chaos. He clutches that datapad tightly, his face obscured by his hood. The rebel agent makes a run for it, slipping through a hidden passage as the base collapses around him.

His vision ends abruptly, snapping him back to the present. He gasps, his hand dropping the comlink as if it burned. His breaths come fast and shallow, with tiny drops of sweat forming on his forehead. BD-1 chirps in concern, leaning closer to his ear.

"Cal?" Cere's voice cuts through the confusion, her tone both worried and hasty. "What did you see?"

He swallows hard, his voice hoarse. "An Inquisitor attacked this place. She killed... almost everyone..." he speaks through ragged breaths, his chest heavy with the weight of what he witnessed. "There was a cloaked man. He had a datapad with something important on it. He escaped, but barely."

"Did you see where he went?" Merrin asks, her voice steady but laced with urgency.

Cal shakes his head. "No... the vision ended right after he escaped. I don't even know if he's still alive."

"He must be, or everything we've done so far will be for nothing," Cere declares, her voice firm but tinged with fatigue. "Did you see anything else? Something that might help us?"

"I... I don't know," Cal murmurs, furrowing his brow as he struggles to recall. "There was so much chaos. Everything happened so fast," he replays the memory in his head, desperate for a clue, but all he can remember is the sheer terror as the Inquisitor made her appearance, followed by her cruel massacre.

"Think, Cal," Cere urges, her voice softer now, almost pleading. "Anything, names, locations... please."

"He... uh, he did say a name. That rebel agent—Lyn. Do you know who that is?"

Cere's silence is answer enough, and Cal rises slowly, suspicion mingling with understanding in his voice. "You do," he answers his own question.

"Lyn Rakish," Cere finally admits, her tone bitter. "I've met her once or twice, back when she was a Jedi. She was... different from the rest. Always lost in her own thoughts," her voice trails off, carrying a hint of regret.

"Another Jedi fallen to the dark side," Cal says grimly.

"Exactly. She's cut from the same mold as the Second Sister—ruthless and deadly. What was once a quiet but loyal member of our Order now proudly clings to the title of Fourth Sister."

"Will this Fourth Sister pose a problem for us?" Merrin interjects, her frown deepening.

Cere's gaze shifts to the young witch, her eyes gleaming with uncertainty. "The simple fact that she was here means she's already aware of our mission. If she finds that datapad... everything will be lost for good."

"There was something else," Cal interrupts, his expression shifting as if piecing together a thought. "A set of coordinates on one of the consoles before it got destroyed. I know it's not much, but..." he trails off, letting the implication hang.

"Whatever it is, I think it's worth giving a shot," Cere says, her voice resolute. "Thank you, Cal, for turning this impossible mystery into something we can work with."

"Don't mention it," Cal replies, offering her a quick, faint smile.

The crew hurries back to the Mantis, the weight of Cal's vision and the new information pressing down on them heavily. The air feels thick with tension as they board the ship, with BD-1 hopping up onto Cal's shoulder, offering a reassuring chirp. Greez glances over from the cockpit, his usual shakiness noticeably subdued.

"You all look like you just fought a Rancor and lost. What happened out there?"

"Not much, but we did find something interesting," Cere says quickly, her fingers already inputting coordinates into the control panel near Greez. For a brief moment, her gaze shifts to the young man who helped make this discovery possible, a wave of gratitude washing over her.

"Okay... so, what is it then?"

"Cal discovered a potential location where this rebel agent might be hiding," Merrin adds as she slides closer to the Latero, her sudden proximity making him freeze for a second. He turns and gives her a forced smile, his fear still lingering despite his insistence that the young witch doesn't scare him.

"Huh, is that so? Nice work, kid!" Greez grins. "Look at you two, already proving to be valuable members of this crew. I mean, I told Cere I liked you two from the start."

"You did not!" Cere retorts with a playful smirk. "As a matter of fact, you complained all the way to Aldhani about having to cook for more mouths."

"I—I did no such thing!" Greez stammers, his voice rising defensively. He squirms under the piercing gaze of the Nightsister. "All I said was... I might have to cook a bit more. But that's it!"

"It's okay, Greez. I believe you," Cal says, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Besides, if you've got your hands full, you can always ask Merrin to help out. She's an expert on Dathomirian delicacies."

"Excellent idea, husband!" Merrin replies with a mischievous grin. "It has been far too long since I indulged in more traditional meals. It would be my pleasure to assist."

"Absolutely not in my— "Greez blinks, looking between Cal and Merrin with a mix of confusion and mild alarm. "Wait, hold on a second...husband? I thought monks, you know..."

"Cal and I have been bonded through the great joining—"

Greez throws his hands in the air and turns back to the cockpit. "You know what? I don't even wanna know. I've already got enough to worry about with these ‘deep spirit connections' and extra mouths to feed."

"There! Got it!" Cere jumps in her seat, thrilled. "Looks like we're not leaving Nar Shaddaa after all," she points toward the location now revealed on the screen.

"There's a second base here?" Cal declares, deeply intrigued and surprised.

"It seems so," Cere turns to face him. "And maybe our agent is hiding there. Think about it, the Empire probably thinks he's off-world, but he's been hiding here all along, right under their noses."

"Cere, if that's the case..."

"Then there might be hope yet," she smiles, thrilled about the turn of events. With Cal's psychometry, there was an entirely new perspective brought to the rebellion. His aid was gift sent from the Force itself and she truly believed hope could still rekindle, even in dark times like these.

The doors to the Nightsister main temple burst open, revealing a battle-worn but victorious Second Sister. She strides confidently past her stormtroopers, each one aligned to witness her glorious walk as she advances toward the council chamber. A dark cloth is wrapped around her fingers, swaying silently as she walks with purpose. She opens the chamber door with her free hand, revealing Valeria inside.

The Nightsister jumps as soon as the Second Sister enters, her pale blue eyes staring wildly at the other woman, drenched in blood and soil. Her mouth hangs open, her expression bewildered, as her gaze travels downward, settling on the piece of cloth concealing something heavy inside it.

"Where have you been? My scouts have been looking for you for hours, and—"

"See for yourself!" the Nightsister's words are cut short as the Second Sister flings her hand out and tosses the dirty cloth to the ground. It makes a sickening sound as its contents are revealed: the head of a Zabrak male, rolling until it reaches Valeria's boots.

"Do not thank me yet, Nightsister. There is still much work to be done before we can secure these lands in the name of our glorious Empire," the Second Sister says with a faint smirk beneath the grime, cold and menacing.

"Are you mad?? Who is this??" Valeria's eyes grow impossibly wide, failing to recognize the mangled flesh that once belonged to one of their neighboring clan members.

"Do you not recognize the mark of your enemy, sister?" the Second Sister scoffs ironically. "Doesn't matter anymore. They're all dead. Took me a while to kill them all, but alas, they refused to reason..." her golden eyes pierce Valeria's now frightened pale blue ones.

Realization dawns fast and hard on Valeria. She bends down, barely recognizing the markings of the Howling Crags, making the victim as their leader. Her breath catches in her throat, and a deep sense of terror mixed with sorrow invades her instantly and unexpectedly.

"The Howling Crags are... no more," she eventually manages to speak, still in shock.

"Precisely. I warned them that only death would follow if they did not align themselves with the Empire. And surely enough, they did not listen," the Second Sister plants herself in one of the empty chairs and sighs almost longingly, as if recalling a beautiful memory. "The poor bastards actually believed they stood a chance..."

"Send a message to the other clans. Show them what happens when they dare to defy the Emperor's command," she leans forward with a warning glare.

Valeria rises slowly to her feet, daring to look the Inquisitor in the eye. There is something far more sinister lurking behind those empty, golden eyes. For the first time in her life, Valeria wonders if she truly made the right choice.

Her clan must survive at all costs. Pushing her doubts aside, she picks up the severed head from the floor and moves toward the communication panel. With a steady voice, she activates it and begins to record her message: All clans must align themselves with the Empire immediately or suffer the same fate as the Howling Crags.

Chapter Text

Staying on Nar Shaddaa for more than a couple of hours was never part of Cere's plan. In fact, nothing that has happened over the past few hours was. But now, she finds herself surrounded by a peculiar group of people, each one unique in their own way.

Cal has been a surprise from the start. His adept use of the Force, despite having no formal affiliation with the Jedi Order, makes her question what could have happened for the Council to reject such a powerful Force-user. She'd heard stories of the Council's failures before, but only now she was beginning to grasp just how many mistakes they had made in the past. Still, having him in her company was a comfort. She wonders if he might be open to learning a few tricks from her or even, despite his current status, consider joining them as a full Jedi Knight.

With Merrin, it's a different story altogether. Cere can't quite figure out how these two had come together, though their close bond and steadfast loyalty to one another offers some explanation. Even so, it is strange to see a Dathomiri witch married to a follower of the light side of the Force.

A light chuckle escapes her lips at the thought of their union—a true representation of balance. Merrin's dark magick complemented Cal's use of the Force beautifully. Perhaps there is a reason for all this, one she couldn't yet see. True love had always eluded her, and somewhere deep down, she wonders what her own life might have been like if she'd left the Order behind and sought something different.

But that was the past. Now, they were on the hunt, desperate to find the missing piece of their puzzle. The rebel agent has to be alive, hidden somewhere on this wretched planet, and Cere feels more determined than ever to find him.

The Mantis descends rapidly toward the location: a swamp shrouded in thick fog and even denser foliage. Greez barely manages to land the ship safely, the Mantis still cloaked by Merrin's powerful spell.

"Well, we're here... wherever this is," Greez says, gesturing wildly toward the peculiar landscape outside.

"Are you sure this is the place? It doesn't look fit for a rebel base," Cere replies, furrowing her eyebrows as she gazes suspiciously outside.

"They're your coordinates, not mine," Greez ads with a shrug. "But yeah! This is it," he hops out of his seat as soon as the engines cools. Cere follows him into the main corridor, joined by the rest of the crew. They all stand around, waiting for instructions.

"Is something wrong?" Merrin asks, noticing the concern etched on Cere's face.

"No, everything's fine. It's just... we need to be really careful, in case this turns out to be a trap."

"Of course," Cal interjects. "The Fourth Sister could be waiting for us, for all we know."

"Exactly," Cere replies with a contemplative frown. "Stay close to each other, and if you sense any kind of trouble, run. Don't play the hero unless it's absolutely necessary. Our main goal is survival, no matter the cost."

A faint, bitter smile appears on Cal's lips. Surviving no matter the cost had been his guiding principle for the past few months, and he has a fair idea he's becoming quite good at it.

The ship's ramp opens with a loud hiss, revealing the swamp ahead. The area is far less repugnant despite its remote location. As the crew ventures into the murky landscape, Greez stays behind, watching them with a hint of worry cleverly masked beneath his usual gruff demeanor.

The swamp feels different. The air around them is thick but not entirely polluted, a stark contrast to the choking atmosphere of the cities on Nar Shaddaa. Cere's eyes scan the scenery, vigilant for any signs of danger. The sky is gloomy, with night almost fully settled, but the most unsettling aspect of this place is the eerie silence.

Murky water stretches out around them, the place scattered with enormous vines. Cere slowly begins to understand why the agent chose this swamp as a hiding place. It's the kind of location no one would dare venture into, a desolate and ominous expanse, seemingly forgotten by time itself.

Yet, as they continue to walk, Cere feels her patience wearing thin. There are no signs of life—no huts, no caves, no obvious shelter. The entire swamp is blanketed in green moss, with ancient trees towering into the sky. The only light comes from Merrin's magick, casting a faint glow that offers just enough visibility to press on.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but this place actually smells better than the city," Cal remarks from behind. BD-1 chirps enthusiastically in agreement, drawing his attention. The small droid begins to scan one of the nearby plants, making Cal pause.

"What are you doing?" he asks, visibly curious about the new sound in his ear.

"He's collecting seeds for Greez," Cere replies nonchalantly as she strides ahead. "I think he's up to over a hundred by now."

"Seeds? For that tiny garden of his?" Merrin interjects, equally intrigued. "I believe he will require a much larger plot of land if he intends to keep them all."

Cere allows a soft smile to grace her lips and slows her pace, waiting for Merrin to catch up. "Our captain is full of surprises. He means to find a quiet place, somewhere peaceful where he can start a new life... once this is all over. Preferably one with a large garden."

"Do you truly believe all this will end one day?" Merrin's voice carries a rare note of compassion, her gaze searching Cere's face.

"I do," Cere replies quietly, her voice steady. "I know it's a long shot, and I understand I might not live to see it, but yes, Merrin, I believe the Empire will one day be nothing more than a distant memory. I have to believe that because if I don't, then there's no one left who will."

The swamp grows denser as the crew pushes forward, each step further into the quiet scenery around them. The silence hangs heavily, broken only by the occasional chirp of BD-1 and the rustle of leaves stirred by Merrin's magick. At the heart of a small clearing shines a faint glint, half-buried in the mud and overgrown moss. Cere is the first to approach, her curiosity driving her forward as she crouches down, brushing aside the debris to reveal a battered datapad. The device is cracked along its screen, with wires exposed and one corner completely shattered.

"I found it!" Cere shouts, holding it up.

"Is it functional?" Merrin asks, stepping closer and examining the device with cautious hope.

Cere shakes her head, fiddling with the controls. "No. It's completely destroyed. There's no way to access any data like this."

Merrin looks over her shoulder, her brow furrowing. "If this belonged to the agent, it is strange that they would just leave it behind. Unless... they had no choice."

"Give it to me," Cal says, stretching out his hand and waiting patiently as Cere steps closer. She places the broken device in his palm, watching him with anticipation.

Cal lowers himself onto the muddy ground, settling into a focused stance. He closes his eyes and begins to concentrate. Minutes pass, and he remains still, immersed in meditation. But soon, his brows furrow with frustration. He exhales sharply, shaking his head as his eyes snap open.

"That's... strange," he mutters, his voice tinged with defeat. "Let me try again." He closes his eyes once more, attempting to draw upon the Force. Another minute ticks by, his lips tightening in weak protest as the effort drains him. Finally, with a sharp inhale, he stands abruptly, his expression clouded with frustration.

"I don't understand," he says, his tone bewildered. "There's no echo, no trace of who owned it or what happened here. It's like... the memories were erased."

"Erased? How is that even possible?" Cere steps closer, taking the datapad back into her hands and inspecting it thoughtfully.

"You tell me," Cal replies, shaking his head. "I've never had this problem before, and I've sensed echoes from relics as far back as the High Republic! This... this is impossible."

Merrin places a gentle hand on his shoulder, her touch grounding him as she speaks, her tone serious. "If there is no chance of finding this man, perhaps it is better to abandon this quest. We could divert our attention to matters more urgent."

"She's right," Cal interjects, his voice unusually somber. "For all we know, he could be dead. Or worse. Maybe this is the end of the road."

Cere shakes her head, gripping the broken datapad tighter. "But this is the object you saw in your vision. Why would he risk his life to protect this, only to abandon it here, in the middle of nowhere? Something must have happened for him to destroy it like this."

"Maybe he was attacked by the Empire," Cal suggests, his voice soft but firm.

Cere turns the datapad over in her hands, her eyes scanning its surface. "Maybe." Her gaze hardens, and she looks up at the group. "I think he left it here on purpose. To lose his trail."

The swamp seems to close in around them as her words hang in the air. The implication clear as day: whoever left the datapad behind may have done so with a reason, but finding that reason remains a challenge. Cere's grip on the datapad tightens, her frown deepening.

"We're not giving up yet," she declares, her voice firm. BD-1 beeps sympathetically as Cere holds it close, clearly unwilling to leave it behind despite its useless state.

"We should head back," she ads, glancing around the clearing. "There's nothing else here."

Reluctantly, the group turns back the way they came. The swamp feels even more silent on their return journey, the lack of sound growing more unbearable with each step. Cere takes the lead, her thoughts swirling with questions about the agent's fate and the purpose of the broken datapad.When they finally reach the Mantis, Greez is waiting at the ramp, arms crossed and impatience written all over his face.

"Took you long enough," he grumbles. "Find anything worth all that wandering around this time?"

Cere shakes her head as they board, her boots heavy with mud. "Just this," she says, reaching inside her bag to reveal the useless device.

Greez studies it briefly before snorting. "Looks like junk to me."

"It might be," Cere admits. "But it's the only lead we have. We'll take a closer look once we're back in orbit."

As the ramp closes behind them and the Mantis lifts off, the crew feels incredibly disappointed. The swamp may not have been a trap, but it hadn't been a breakthrough either. For now, the broken datapad is their only clue—and a reminder of just how elusive their actual goal remains.

"Oh, I know what we should do! Go get drinks!" Greez tries to lighten the mood, carefully observing their tired faces. "There's nothing a good drink can't fix, I guarantee!"

"I don't drink alcohol... not anymore," Cal declares with a sour expression, reminiscing about the strong wine from Dathomir.

"Old enough to get married but not have a drink? Are you serious right now, Cal?" Greez gives him a strange look. "What about you, Merrin? You look like you could handle a few spotchka rounds," he turns to face the young witch with a hopeful look in his eyes.

"I will admit, it does not sound like a bad idea," Merrin replies with confidence. "I could definitely use something strong right now."

"We're not leaving the ship until we figure out what to do with this thing," Cere declares, staring at the broken datapad on the table.

"Do you know how to repair it?" Cal asks, turning to search for BD-1. "What about you, little buddy? Can you fix this?"

The droid lowers his visor in defeat and chirps, denying the request. Cere sighs loudly, her head starting to hurt as she contemplates their next move. Finding a reliable person to fix the damn thing would be the logical option, but right now, she feels it's incredibly dangerous to bring even more people onto the ship.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but Greez is right," Cere stands up suddenly.

"I am? I mean, of course I am!" Greez stands up too, though he doesn't know why.

"Obviously, we need to keep a low profile, but... this planet is teeming with pirates and scavengers. It doesn't take a genius to realize we might find someone who can help us repair the datapad in no time."

"So... we just go outside and mingle? Make friends with the locals?" Cal rises from his seat, quickly followed by Merrin.

"Something like that. We just need to find someone willing to help, anyone good enough with tech. As long as they don't ask too many questions..."

"If they do, I will handle them," Merrin ignites her finger, the green magic burning hot around it.

"Whoa, keep that thing away from the leather couches!" Greez jumps in panic, shooing her away with his hands.

"It's settled then. Although, we should change both of your outfits. You two stand out in the crowd too much," Cere gestures toward Merrin and Cal vaguely.

"Why? What's wrong with them?" Cal interjects with opposition.

"Besides the fact that your outfits scream, I'm a member of the Jedi Order traveling with a dark Force-wielding witch? Nothing. You both look great," Greez scoffs with jest.

"Still not a Jedi, Greez. But thanks for telling us," Cal replies.

"I do not wish to renounce my garments," Merrin protests with her arms crossed. "These have been passed down through generations, from one Mother to another. If I lose them, I might as well renounce my title."

"We'll put them somewhere safe, Merrin. I promise, the last thing I want is for you to lose a part of your identity," Cere assures her with a sympathetic glance before turning to Cal. "The same goes for you too, Cal. It's only a temporary adjustment."

Merrin remains silent, contemplating her decision until she eventually agrees. She understands it's better to shed her Nightsister persona for a more inconspicuous look than to risk their safety. "Very well, Cere. I expect you to hold true to your promise."

"I will. Now let's find you some clean, less jarring outfits," Cere replies sincerely, strolling to her quarters while Greez maneuvers the ship toward the nearest city.

Even with their credits running a bit short, Cere didn't regret being here right now. Both Cal and Merrin were so young and inexperienced that she almost felt a tinge of motherly protection toward them. As she guided them outside the shop, her gaze settled on their new attire.

It wasn't much. Cal's brown jacket and tan trousers reminded her of some smugglers she used to hunt in her glory days during the Clone Wars. He even got to keep his old boots, firmly protesting that he didn't need anything else. BD-1 clings to his back quietly, almost blending in too perfectly with the colors.

Merrin, on the other hand, looked so peculiar in her new outfit that it took Cere a moment to adjust. Her Nightsister garments were truly something else, and she understood why Merrin was so adamant about keeping them. But the young witch looked fairly good in her new ensemble: a gray vest paired perfectly with black pants and a dark brown sweater. Her long hair was now tied into a discreet bun at the back of her head, with only a sliver of hair hanging down the side of her face.

A perfect disguise for the both of them, Cere thought as she signaled Greez to join their group and head into town.

"Well, look at you two! I almost didn't recognize you, Merrin!" Greez exclaimed, sidling up to her with a wide smirk.

Merrin gives Greez a side glance, her lips twitching in what could be the beginnings of a smile, or perhaps a scowl. "Do not get used to it," she says, her tone sharp, though it lacks its usual edge.

"Trust me, I won't," Greez chuckles, patting her on the arm. "Still, not bad. You clean up well. Cal, you, uh... you look like you're ready to haul cargo for the Hutt Cartel."

"That bad, huh?" Cal asks dryly, adjusting his jacket. "What's a Hutt?"

"What's a... are you joking?" Greez shoots him a surprised glance, his eyes widening dramatically. "Only the biggest, baddest crime syndicate in the entire galaxy!"

"I'm just joking. I know all about the Hutts," Cal replies with a cheeky grin. "I grew up in an galactic archive, so yeah... I know how dangerous they can be. At least now nobody's going to recognize us. Especially the Empire."

Cere studies them both for a moment before nodding, satisfied. "That's the idea. Keep your heads down, blend in, and we'll be in and out of this city before anyone even notices we're here."

The city is alive with activity, a cacophony of languages, smells, and sights that overwhelm the senses. Vendors shout to sell their wares—exotic fruits, shimmering silks, and suspicious-looking trinkets clutter their stalls. The crowd surges around them, pushing and shoving, but Cere keeps the group moving forward, her eyes scanning the area for potential threats.

Merrin moves cautiously, her gaze flitting to every shadow and alleyway. "This place is... loud," she comments, her tone tinged with distaste.

"It's called life, Merrin," Greez says with a smirk. "You should try it sometimes," he ads, staying behind to scour for imperial patrols.

Merrin raises an eyebrow, unimpressed. "I prefer silence. It is far less irritating."

"All right, you two, focus," Cere interjects, her voice firm. She stops in front of a small vendor selling tools and datapads. "Let's see if they've got anything we can use to repair that datapad."

Cal nods and approaches the stall, while BD-1 begins to scan the parts. Merrin lingers by Cere's side quietly. Her eyes wander to a stand displaying fabrics, her fingers brushing against a dark crimson cloth. For a brief moment, her expression softens.

"You like it?" Cere asks, watching her carefully.

"It reminds me of home," Merrin says quietly, almost to herself. But the moment passes quickly, and she withdraws her hand. "It does not matter."

Cere studies her for a beat, then places a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "It matters. But right now, survival comes first."

Before Merrin can respond, Greez returns, looking slightly flustered. "Bad news! Looks like there's an Imperial patrol heading this way. We need to move. Now."

"There! Inside that cantina!" Cere points, prompting the entire crew to rush inside before they catch any unwanted attention.

With the Empire claiming dominion over the entire galaxy, it was becoming harder to keep track of every planet within it. That's where the stormtroopers and spies come in handy, and Cere curses the day she learned the hard way how one small mistake can have enormous repercussions. She swore never to let her guard down again, even in shady places like this—a cantina that seemed to harbor no love for the Empire or its rules.

The place is packed to the brim with unsavory patrons, all gathered in hopes of forgetting their troubles. So far, it seems like a good hiding spot. Cere carefully guides her crew inside, ensuring they don't draw too much attention.

Despite the dim lights and loud music, they manage to find a few empty seats at the bar. Greez claims a seat first, and the rest follow quickly. The patrons cast curious glances, some even pausing their games to ogle at the fur-covered stranger currently docked in their midst. A quiet shiver travels down Cere's spine as she grows wary of the danger these individuals might pose. One wrong word or gesture is all it could take to set them off. She instructs the group to keep to themselves while she scans the crowd.

"Why is everything on this planet so damn loud?" Cal complains, bringing a hand to his right ear in an attempt to dull the noise. "I can barely hear myself think."

"That's Nar Shaddaa for you, kid!" Greez yells from his seat, already eyeing the menu in front of him. "Might as well get used to it until we leave. Nothing here but loud noise and trouble."

"Boop!" BD-1 adds enthusiastically from Cal's side, now perched on the bar as he begins scanning the beverages displayed. The barkeep notices the intrusion and shoos the droid off the counter, his attention now fixed on Cal.

"What can I get you, kid? You even old enough to drink?"

A loud cackle bursts from Greez, earning a confused glare from the bartender, who turns back to Cal with a shake of his head. "He with you?"

"Yeah..." Cal slinks lower into his seat. "Don't mind him. I'll just have some water, thanks."

"Water? You' sure about that?" he cocks his eyebrow. "What about you, beautiful?" the bartender's attention shifts to Merrin, his eyes gleaming with peculiar interest. "Tell me you want something stronger."

"You do not possess anything strong enough for me," she declares in a low, ominous voice. The bartender's grin falters, replaced by an intrigued stare.

"Gorgeous and deadly. One shot of Zygerrian spirit coming right up!" he hurries to the other side of the bar, nearly fumbling as he goes. He returns quickly, planting a glass of water in front of Cal and setting a shot of alcohol in front of Merrin with an admiring look. "For the lovely lady."

"Hey, what about us? I've been staring at this menu for five minutes!" Greez protests from his seat, earning an exasperated glance from Cere.

"Stare longer! I'm busy!" the bartender snaps, still captivated by Merrin.

Cal sighs from his seat. He knows what's coming for the poor fool but doesn't have the heart to warn him, despite his better instincts. Instead, he listens as the bartender grows bolder, silently counting the seconds until Merrin responds. The bartender leans closer, his grin widening as he places both hands on the bar in front of Merrin.

"So, gorgeous, what brings you to a place like this? A beauty like you stands out around here."

Merrin raises an eyebrow, her pale fingers curling around the glass of Zygerrian spirit. Her dark eyes meet his, calm but piercing, as though they can see straight through him.

"It is better not to reveal the nature of my visit," she replies in a voice so cold it feels like frost settling over the room.

The bartender blinks, his grin faltering just slightly, but he presses on. "Is that so? Well, if you're ever looking for protection, you know where to find me," he winks, as though the gesture is enough to sway her.

Merrin tilts her head slowly, studying him like one might examine an insect before deciding whether to crush it. She lifts the glass to her lips but doesn't drink. Instead, she speaks softly, her voice carrying a weight that makes those nearby instinctively lean away.

"I do not require your protection," she sets the glass back down with a deliberate clink that cuts through the music. "You, however, may require protection if you do not leave me alone."

The bartender stares at her, clearly uncertain if she's joking. But then Merrin leans forward, her voice dropping lower. "Tell me, barkeep… do you believe in curses?"

The question hangs in the air like smoke, and a few of the patrons near them suddenly find their drinks very interesting. The bartender chuckles nervously, scratching the back of his neck. "Curses, huh? Lady, you don't scare me."

Merrin smiles wickedly. Her free hand rises slightly, her fingers twitching as if summoning something unseen. A faint shimmer of green magick swirls between her fingertips, just enough for the bartender to notice.

"You should be," she whispers. Her voice carries a hypnotic melody, each word a dagger sinking deeper into his ego. "A spell can last a lifetime. Misfortune... nightmares... maybe even worse. Perhaps I could show you?"

The bartender stumbles back, bumping into the shelves behind him with a loud crash. His face pales as he stammers, "H-hey now, no need for that! Just trying to be friendly, that's all!"

"Then be friendly somewhere else."

He nods quickly, backing away with both hands raised. "Right, right, got it. Enjoy your drink, uh, lady. And, uh, call me if you need… never mind!" he returns to his job leaving the crew to themselves.

Cal tries to stifle a laugh, but it slips out anyway. "That was... honestly better than I expected. At least he's still alive."

"If you can call that living. Remind me to never get on her bad side," Greez mutters, shaking his head as he finally catches the bartender's attention for his order.

Merrin picks up her drink, finally taking a slow sip. "He was... irritating," she says simply, setting the empty glass down.

Cere, watching the exchange, can't help but smirk slightly. "Relax Greez. I think we're in good hands," she says under her breath, her gaze flicking over to Merrin before returning to the crowd. "Now all we need is to find someone eager to help."

The atmosphere is tense around them, with unknown dangers lurking at every corner of the establishment. The music blares loudly as the crew settles into their seats, waiting patiently for a sign. Someone with an affinity for tech was unlikely to pursue places like this, but it was better than nothing.

"There's a strange man staring at us from over there," Merrin points toward a now-empty table. "Where did he go?" she asks, her question receiving a quick answer as the man is suddenly seated next to Cal. She gives him a wary stare as the rest of the crew freezes, unsure of his intentions.

"Nice droid you got there. Is he yours?" the stranger addresses Cal with a friendly tone.

"Who, BD? He's part of our crew," Cal replies with a smile, his eyes fixed on the bar in front of him.

"I get it. He helps you, doesn't he? With... you know," his voice trails off suggestively, but there's no ill intent behind it.

"I don't need help, but thanks for the concern. Have we met before?" Cal turns toward him, trying to figure him out. The rest of the crew remains silent, watching their conversation unfold with caution.

"No, I don't think so. I'd definitely remember your face," the man snickers playfully. "Name's Bode Akuna. Freelancer."

"Freelancer? And what exactly does that mean?" Cere interjects quickly, ready to put a stop to any unnecessary prying.

"It means whatever you want it to mean. I have a particular set of skills, and I get paid to use those skills."

"Such as?" she asks, cocking an eyebrow at him suspiciously.

"I read people. Couldn't help but notice a group of strangers sticking out in here like a sore thumb," Bode replies in an ironic tone, masked carefully by his playful demeanor.

"Oh yeah? Look at us—of course we stand out!" Greez interjects bitterly, downing a shot of alcohol quickly. "What else do you do, genius?"

"I play a mean hand of Sabacc too, but I'll let you be the judge of that, if you want," Bode replies sharply, eyeing Greez with a sidelong grin.

"Eh, maybe some other time," Greez gives him a discreet wink, mumbling under his breath as he sinks into his seat and goes quiet.

"We're that obvious?" Cal asks with a sincere tone.

"The three of you? Not so much. Her, on the other hand..." Bode points to Merrin, earning a death glare almost immediately. "Not a lot of Nightsisters around these parts, I can tell you that."

"So our disguises have been in vain," the young witch says furiously.

"Oh, no, not at all," Bode raises his hands in front of him apologetically. "To them, you're just a bunch of regular law-abiding citizens. To me, on the other hand... I'm not quite sure yet," he leans over and gives Cal a quick smile.

"Maybe we should talk somewhere more private," Cere stands up with a determined glare, prompting the entire crew to follow her. She gives Bode an inviting nod and leads them to the back of the cantina, into one of the more private booths. Once inside, she gestures for him to sit and crosses her arms defensively.

"So, Bode Akuna... the name doesn't ring any bells, but you do seem awfully familiar. Are you sure we haven't met before?"

"Could be. See, I was an intelligence gatherer back when the Republic was still standing. Now that that's gone, I get by with small jobs finding lost people, helping others escape... the usual," he leans back comfortably.

"Interesting... if what you're saying is true. How do we know you're not lying, Bode? For all we know, you could be an imperial spy, or worse."

"That's the fun part. You don't," he looks at each of their faces, a more serious expression replacing his smirk. "But I can tell just by looking at you all that you're in desperate need of help."

"Are you so certain of that, stranger?" Merrin leans closer menacingly, glaring at him.

"Judging by your presence here, yeah. The Nightsisters of Dathomir don't leave their clan unless... something bad happened," Bode glares back with confidence, rendering Merrin silent. "Like I said, I'm well-informed."

"I think he's exactly what we need," Cal declares in a serious tone. "And he's right. We do need help."

Cere exhales loudly, pinching the bridge of her nose in frustration. She gives Bode a serious look, inching closer while sitting down next to him. She hesitates for a moment, unsure if placing her trust in this stranger is the right choice.

"Fine, Bode Akuna," she declares in a defeated tone. "We'll consider your help."

"Wait, just like that?" Greez jumps to his feet. He grumbles under his breath but doesn't press further, sinking back into his seat. Merrin, however, continues to study Bode with suspicion, her eyes narrowed. Bode meets her glare without flinching, a small, almost teasing smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

"So," Cal begins, breaking the silence, "if we're going to consider working with you, we'll need to know more about what you're offering."

"Well, for starters, I know my way around the galaxy. Got connections in places you wouldn't expect. And judging by the way you're all looking over your shoulders, I'd wager you could use a friend who knows how to stay one step ahead."

"We do nor require a friend," Merrin cuts in, her voice sharp. "We require someone we can trust. Can you provide that?"

Bode holds her gaze, his smirk fading. "Trust is earned, Nightsister, not handed out like a drink at the bar. But I'll make you a deal: you let me stick around for a while, and I'll prove I'm worth it."

"You sound really confident for someone we just met," Cere notes, her arms still crossed.

"Confidence is how I've stayed alive this long," Bode replies smoothly, his tone lighter again. "Look, I'm not asking you to roll out the welcome mat. Just let me help. Worst-case scenario? You decide I'm not your guy, and I move on. No harm, no foul."

The crew exchanges uncertain glances. Cere studies Bode closely, weighing the options. Cal shifts uncomfortably but says nothing. She exhales slowly, the weight of the decision pressing hard on her.

"Alright, Bode. You can tag along, for now. But the second you give us a reason to doubt you, you're out."

"Fair enough." Bode grins, his tone lighthearted again. "I promise, you won't regret it."

Merrin mutters something under her breath in Dathomirian, her expression stormy. Cere raises a hand, silencing her before the tension can escalate further. "We'll see about that," she ads firmly. "For now, we should get back to the ship."

The group rises, with Greez muttering complaints about leaving his drink unfinished. Bode follows them out of the booth, his steps easy and relaxed, as though he's already part of the crew. Outside the cantina, the night air is heavy, the hum of distant engines and the occasional murmur of passersby filling the silence. Bode takes a moment to glance around, his eyes sharp and observant.

"So," he says casually, breaking the quiet, "where to next?"

Cal walks silently alongside him, offering a gentle smile as soon as he hears his voice. "You'll see once we reach the Mantis. Try not to fall behind."

Bode raises an eyebrow but doesn't argue, falling into step beside them. His lips form a cheeky grin as soon as the luxury yacht is in his sight.

Chapter Text

Adding more crew members was never part of the plan, and Greez murmured silently under his breath as the now larger team settled inside the Mantis. Cere already had her room, while Cal and Merrin quietly took up residence at the back of the ship, inside the engine room. Bode, on the other hand, claimed he didn't need much space, but Greez begged to differ, considering the older man's towering presence. Reluctantly, Greez offered him the only spare room left, next to Cere's.

"I sincerely hope this is the last stray you pick up, Cere," he mutters while busy maneuvering the ship into hyperspace. "I'm telling you, we're at full capacity!"

"Settle down, Captain. It wasn't my intention to fill the ship so quickly," Cere replies, amusement lacing her tone as she gives him a faintly regretful glance. Her eyes briefly wander toward the engine room, wondering what the others are up to.

"Yeah, yeah. I mean, it's nice having people around, don't get me wrong," Greez softens his tone, "especially those two lovebirds. But you get what I mean. We can't just—"

"I know. No more stowaways from now on," Cere interrupts him, raising a hand. "I promise."

Greez simply chuckles, shaking his head. The ship's engine humms softly as the Mantis soars through hyperspace toward their next destination. Keeping a low profile was their best move for now, and until they found a way to locate the missing agent, all they could do was trust Bode to keep his end of the bargain.

Kyrranos is their destination, a planet near the edge of the outer rim where droids outnumbered the organic population. Cere busies herself slicing into imperial communications, wary of the possibility of an unexpected blockade. So far, things look safe. According to Bode, the Empire paid little attention to the planet due to its lack of resources. Yet, a small voice in the back of Cere's mind whispers doubts. How exactly did Bode know so much?

Being hunted by the Empire had made her incredibly wary and suspicious of almost everyone. Bode, in particular, was a mystery. His nonchalant wit and extensive knowledge of nearly everything left her conflicted. On one hand, she appreciated his help. On the other... she couldn't quite place it. It was strange, considering she had never felt this way when Cal and Merrin joined the crew.

"I'm going to see if I can fix that datapad," she says, rising from her seat, her mind still troubled.

"Eh, knock yourself out. But don't take too long—we're almost there," Greez replies, gesturing toward the compass as their destination grows closer by the second.

"Thanks for the encouraging words, Captain," she remarks dryly, offering an ironic smile.

Greez waves a hand dismissively and let out a small chuckle, his focus fixed on the vast hyperspace streaking before him.

Bode sits next to Cere with a dissatisfied look on his face, his fingers crudely picking at the wires hanging from the broken datapad. He lets out a frustrated sigh, followed by another, until it becomes evident that this isn't going to work.

"There's no way to fix this, Cere. Sorry about that," he says, leaning back in defeat. "The memory is burned. Even if I tried to extract what data was on it, it would be corrupted."

"Well... at least we tried. I guess we're in your hands now, freelancer," she adds, disappointed. Her eyes remain fixed on the broken datapad, wondering what galaxy-altering secrets it once held.

The ship jolts suddenly, signaling their arrival on Kyrranos. Cere jumps to her feet, peeking up front at the small planet visible from the cockpit. Another strange world, she sighs, turning to face the engine room. Cal and Merrin had been holed up there for the entire journey, and she regrets disturbing them, but the matter ahead is far more important. As soon as the door opens, she is greeted by a surprising sight. Cal lies supine, his shirt off, exposing his bare back. Merrin sits beside him, her hands carefully hovering above his skin, her magick dancing quietly over the surface. Merrin stops immediately when she notices Cere out of the corner of her eye, turning to look at her.

"Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to intrude—" Cere begins, backing away slowly, only to be stopped by Cal's voice.

"No, it's fine. Come in," he says, raising himself and reaching for the shirt beside him.

Cere swallows a tight knot, observing the multitude of scars littering his back. She begins to understand what Cal meant when he said he had almost died but decides to refrain from asking about them, afraid she might resurface bad memories.

"We've arrived on Kyrranos. Bode and Greez are waiting for us up front," she declares in a calm voice despite the anxiety coursing through her veins.

Their mission had derailed from a simple search into something far more complicated, and Cere wonders if this will all be worth it. She hopes so as she gives Merrin a gentle nod and departs the engine room. It doesn't take long until the crew gathers, and they leave the Mantis, guided by Bode. He was the sole reason they even found out about this planet, and so far, everything seems fine. Cere's eyes narrow as she spots a few droids in the distance. The spaceport they landed in is almost barren, save for another cargo ship.

If there's one thing she appreciates about this world, it's the fresh air. Compared to Nar Shaddaa, this seems like a paradise, with the architecture kept to a minimum and a lush green landscape visible in the distance. The only thing absent is the presence of fauna. Cere casts a curious glance around her, wondering if any even exist here, given the large droid population currently inhabiting this region. Bode stops in his tracks as soon as they reach the end of the spaceport, eyeing Cere with confidence.

"I'll go ask around. I still have a few contacts who owe me big time. See you in an hour, maybe?" he shrugs nonchalantly.

"I thought we were all going as a team," Cere interjects with suspicion.

"I never said that. Besides, it's better if I go alone. These types of people don't take kindly to strangers, especially with the Empire so active."

"Perhaps you mean to trick us, and we will be unaware of your true plans," Merrin says, crossing her arms defensively as she steps closer to Cere.

"Why would I do that? If I wanted to rat you out to the Empire, trust me you'd already be in a cell right now."

"And why would the Empire care about us?" Cere presses, growing closer, deeply irritated.

"Because I know you're a Jedi. Or at least, you used to be. Cutting yourself off from the Force does nothing as long as you keep your real name," Bode smirks. "Information is everything to me. Like I said, I know my way around."

"You think you know all about us, don't you, wise guy..." Greez interjects with sarcasm.

"I don't think. I just know," Bode says, straightening his back with a more serious expression. "Now, are we gonna do this or what? I have more... important business to take care of after."

"Fine. Go do your thing, Bode. But remember—try anything, and you won't get a second chance," Cere warns with a glare.

"See you in an hour," Bode replies, turning to leave. He's already gone by the time Cere manages to calm down.

"You really don't trust him," Cal says, sliding up beside her, his tone sympathetic.

"Not at all. But if he proves useful, we might need him more than once," she replies, shaking her head and rubbing her temples to soothe a faint headache.

"I don't think he means to betray us. He said it himself—he could've done that long before he introduced himself. Maybe he's just... lonely, and in desperate need of friends."

Cere chuckles faintly at his declaration. "I don't know... maybe you're right, and I'm being a bit harsh. But you have to understand why."

"No, I get it," Cal replies with a smile. "All I'm saying is to give him a chance to prove himself. Like you did with us."

"I, uh..." Cere pauses, wondering if his words hold more truth than she wants to admit. "Okay. Let's find a quiet place to settle down and wait."

The crew finds a shaded corner near the edge of the spaceport, where a large piece from a rusted building provides a bit of cover from the glare of the burning sun above. The area is quiet, save for the occasional clinking of droid parts from a nearby scrap pile and the hum of distant machinery. Greez busies himself inspecting the surroundings, grumbling something about keeping an eye out for trouble, while Merrin sits cross-legged on the ground, seemingly meditating. Cere stands by a stack of cargo crates, her arms crossed as she surveys the barren landscape. The vast openness of Kyrranos feels oddly unsettling after the close quarters of the Mantis. She turns to Cal, who's leaning against a pillar, making small talk with BD-1.

"Cal," she call out, her voice soft but insistent.

He turns his head to face her, a little surprised at the seriousness in her tone. "Yeah?"

She takes a breath, stepping closer to him. "Can I ask you something? And I mean this... genuinely. Why aren't you part of the Jedi Order?"

Cal thinks for a moment, his expression contemplative while Cere waits patiently for his answer. He opens his mouth as if he's about to speak, but stops, a genuinely confused look now etched on his face. "I... thought I knew why, back then. But now... I'm not really sure anymore."

Her brow furrows. "What do you mean by that?"

Cal hesitates, his fingers fidgeting with the hem of his jacket. He takes another shallow breath, preparing himself to speak. "When I was brought before the Jedi Council by Jaro Tapal, I was just a child, my abilities barely showing. But I could hear the hesitation in their voices the moment I stood in front of them, even though I passed the test."

"Jaro Tapal... I knew him. He was a good man and an even better General," Cere adds in a mournful tone.

"He was," Cal says, his voice breaking slightly. He clears his throat, his lips pressing into a tight line. After a brief pause, he sighs and continues, "But even his passion couldn't sway them. Their vote was unanimous."

"This doesn't make any sense. The Jedi Council constantly accepted Force sensitive younglings to be trained."

"They said I was... too uncertain, too conflicted. They told me I needed to train on my own, to prove I could master myself before I could ever be trusted as a Jedi. But Jaro—he stood his ground. He told them my connection to the Force was raw, unrefined, but it was there. He fought for me, argued that I deserved a chance. But the Council didn't see it that way. They said I'd be a danger to myself and others."

"Danger to yourself? That doesn't seem right..." Cere lowers her head, deeply confused. "That's not fair, Cal. They should've—"

"I guess they did what they thought was right," he interrupts, his tone sharper now. He exhales deeply, trying to calm his mind. "But that doubt... it stayed with me. Even after Jaro... after everything, I couldn't shake it."

"So that's why you were taken to Jedha. Jaro Tapal made sure that even if you weren't trained as a Jedi Knight, you'd still have knowledge of our ways. It's a shame, Cal. You would have been an excellent Jedi Knight. Maybe one day, even a Master," Cere places a comforting hand on his shoulder, drawing a sincere smile from him.

"I guess we'll never know," Cal replies softly. "Jaro made sure to teach me a few tricks, and he visited as often as he could, but after the purge happened... " he sighs. "He's probably long dead."

"You don't know that, Cal. Nobody knows what happened to him. He might still be alive," Cere steps closer, her tone encouraging. "Many Jedi went into hiding, cutting themselves off from the Force to avoid being found."

"Like you did," Cal says, raising his head. "Bode said you did that, but I felt you on Aldhani—strong and clear."

"Bode thinks he knows everything," Cere replies with a small smirk. "I think it's wise to keep it that way. You're free to reveal yourself if you want, but I'd keep that psychometry of yours a secret for now, just in case we need the upper hand."

"Always thinking ahead, Cere," Cal adds with a more hopeful tone.

Before she can reply, Merrin's voice echoes around them, calling their names. A dozen droids march toward their destination in perfect synchrony. Merrin steps closer, her tone low but urgent. "Droids are approaching, and there are more coming from behind."

Cal straightens, his hand instinctively moving to shield BD-1. Tilting his head, he listens intently. "I can hear them," he murmurs, his voice calm but firm. "A lot of them. Marching in sync."

Greez peers around the crates, his voice packed with nervous energy. "This is why I hate waiting. Waiting always means trouble!"

Cere sighs, placing a hand on her weapon. "All right, let's move. We need to find a defensible position before they get here."

Cal turns toward her, his expression firm. "Lead the way. We'll be ready."

Merrin's magick flickers to life in her palms as the crew begins to move. The faint sound of marching droids grows louder, their mechanical footsteps echoing louder gradually through the air. Suddenly, they stop, as if frozen in time.

"What the kriff?" Greez mutters, looking at them in confusion.

"Well, well, well... people!" a strange man emerges from the droids, stopping as soon as he's in front of the crew. He studies them with a peculiar expression, looking each one up and down.

"Who are you?" Cere asks, stepping protectively in front of Cal, her arm shielding him.

"Me? Who are you?" the man retorts, scratching his scraggly beard before adjusting his goggles. He leans to the side, giving Greez a curious stare. "You've got non-humans too? Talk about a weird bunch…"

"Hey, watch it!" Greez snaps back, keeping his arms close to the blaster hidden in his jacket.

"We mean no harm. We're just waiting for a friend," Cal interjects, hoping to defuse the growing tension. "He's been gone for an hour and told us to wait here."

"Your friend, huh? This friend of yours wouldn't happen to be made of metal, would they?" the stranger steps closer, holding a small tablet in his hand. He presses a button, and the front row of his B1 droid army raises their weapons, aiming them at the crew. "I don't buy it! Your outfits scream hired goons!"

"Whoa, whoa... settle down! We're peaceful!" Greez raises his hands in surrender.

"Speak for yourself, Greez. This man is a threat to us," Merrin says coldly. Her hands glow with magick as she steps forward, her gaze fixed on the old man with defiance.

"Try me, witch! I'll be the last face you see!" he shouts, his droids beginning to advance.

"Get to cover!" Cere shouts as a barrage of blaster bolts rains down on them, one narrowly missing Cal's shoulder. He leaps into action, the Force surging through him like a storm, ready for battle.

Merrin lunges forward, her magick blazing in vivid green tendrils. With a flick of her wrist, she summons a barrier of crackling energy, deflecting a barrage of bolts back toward the advancing droids. "I will hold them off! Find an opening!"

Cere draws her blaster, shooting down a droid while Greez scrambles for cover, grumbling loudly. "I knew it! Waiting is always trouble! Why do I listen to you people?"

"Where's Bode?" Cal asks, pushing with the Force hard, the droids stumbling and falling to the ground. They get up, resuming their blasting again as the man laughs, hiding behind them.

"Coward! Face us! " Merrin declares, clearing a path through the droids while another dozen make their wait from behind, the area now filled with them. The crew is completely surrounded, their blaster blots forcing them to huddle behind two large crates.

Cal takes a deep breath, feeling his connection to the Force stronger than ever. He senses their presence though the Force, and Cere places a comforting hand on his shoulder as soon as she takes note of his gesture.

"Don't let fear consume you. Draw form the Force, like Master Tapal taught you," she declares in a calm voice.

He nods, beginning to concentrate while the crew keeps a solid defense around him. He can feel the Force tinging at his fingertips, tempting him to cross his boundaries. Jaro once explained how fine the line between complete control and chaos was, with the dark side temping even him more than once, and Cal understood then how important self control was. But being pinned down by strangers who want to kill you makes keeping control incredibly difficult, despite his assurance in his friends. He knows they can handle themselves, but even one small mistake can lead to tragedy, and that, well...he won't let that happen. Never again.

He reaches out with his right hand, feeling the rhythm of the droids' synchronized movements. Time seems to slow, his surroundings fading into a muffled hum. The air thickens, and the closest droids grind to a halt mid-step, their weapons frozen mid-fire.

"What the-" Greez eyes widen, realizing it was Cal's doing that stopped the attackers instantly. "Nice job, Cal!" he releases a loud snicker.

"Kriff! What the kriff did you do to my droids??" the stranger shouts from behind them, his voice filled with fury. "Kill them!" he begins to tap haphazardly on his tablet, desperate for any type of movement. Before he can give another order, a sudden explosion erupts to the side, scattering the droids in all directions. Smoke rises, and out of the haze strides Bode, blaster in hand.

"Am I late to the party?" Bode's voice cuts through the chaos, carrying his usual mix of confidence and charm. He keeps his blaster trained on the old man, a mischievous grin etched on his face. "Looks like I arrived just in time to save your hides."

"We had everything under control," Cere retorts as she emerges from behind the crate, the rest of the crew following closely behind.

Cal releases his hold on the droids, the strain evident as he stumbles forward, his body trembling with exhaustion. Merrin moves quickly, catching him just in time and wrapping her hands around him for support.

"I can see that..." Bode says, raising an eyebrow at Cal, his expression shifting to one of curiosity.

Cere crosses her arms and gestures toward the advancing B1 droids, their weapons still raised and creeping closer. "They don't seem to agree."

"Wait! Stop!" the old man barks, stepping closer. He keeps his gaze locked on Bode, suspicion written across his face. Suddenly, his scowl gives way to a broad grin, and he lets out a booming laugh. "Bode? Is that you?"

"Uh…" Bode furrows his brows in confusion, his grip on the blaster tightening.

"I wasn't sure at first, but yeah… you're definitely Bode Akuna, right?" the old man plants his hands on his hips, his grin widening.

"I can neither confirm nor deny that," Bode replies cautiously, his eyes narrowing as he steps closer. "Who are you?"

"Don't tell me you don't recognize me anymore!" the man's tone shifts to playful disbelief. "It's Brannik! Brannik Voss! We worked together on that missing senator case, remember?"

"Brannik??" Bode lowers his blaster, his wariness replaced with intrigue. "No way! I thought you were dead!"

"Well… that's what everyone thinks!" Brannik laughs nervously, scratching the back of his head. "I had to make myself scarce, change my name and, uh, my looks after, you know…" his voice trails off, and he lets out an embarrassed chuckle.

Bode shakes his head, a bemused smirk crossing his face. "I told you messing with the Hutts was a death sentence. I'm surprised you made it out in one piece," he sighs, holstering his blaster before turning to face the crew. "Stand down. We're good."

Merrin's eyes narrow as her tone grows cold. "Are you certain this man can be trusted? He nearly killed us."

"One hundred percent," Bode replies firmly. "Brannik and I go way back. I'd trust him with my life," he turns back to Brannik, his voice tinged with confusion. "But seriously, how in the Sith hells did you end up here? Last time I saw you, you could barely afford a ticket off-world!"

Brannik steps closer until he's face-to-face with Bode, a sly grin creeping across his face. "Eh, what can I say? There's enough suckers in this galaxy willing to pay for a decent technician. Who knew being handy with droids could be so convenient?" he snickers, leaning to steal a glance at the rest of the crew. "And who are these weirdos?"

"I can't tell you," Bode says with a smirk. "But since you're here, how about giving me a hand? For old time's sake," he claps a firm hand on Brannik's shoulder, his grin turning cheeky.

"Oh yeah?" Brannik raises an eyebrow, rubbing his fingers together in a universal gesture for money. "How much are we talking?"

"Close to three hundred credits to start," Bode replies smugly.

Brannik stares at him for a second before bursting into laughter, his voice echoing through the area. "Three hundred? Did you hit your head on the way here?"

Bode shakes his head with a half-smirk, stepping back slightly. "Always the comedian, huh? Look, I didn't come here to haggle with you, Brannik. I'm actually looking for someone. Someone I was told could help me with my current mission."

"Your current mission? You still doing charity work, Bode? I thought you were way past that," Brannik raises an eyebrow at him. "There's nothing but droids here as far as the eye can see. You want people, there's a town on the west side, but... it ain't much."

"No. My contact told me to come here. To meet... a brilliant technician who works with droids!" Bode inches closer, grabbing the older man by the collar of his shirt and raising him until he's on his toes.

"Hey! Let go of me!"

"It was you all along, you dirty son of a Bantha!" Bode declares angrily. "You almost killed my friends, you idiot!"

"Well—" the man scrambles to keep his composure, desperate to pry Bode's iron grip from his clothes. "I didn't know! I thought the Hutts sent a team after me! It's not my fault they came dressed like mercs!"

Bode releases him with a growl, the man struggling to regain his composure and straighten his outfit. The crew exchanges wary glances, the tension in the air thickening. Merrin keeps her arms crossed but doesn't lower her guarded stance, while Cere watches with a calculating gaze. Cal, still exhausted, sits between Greez and Merrin, listening to what's unfolding and shaking his head in disappointment while BD-1 ads a few colorful beeps that could rival the Hutts themselves.

"You're gonna help me, and you're gonna do it for free!" Bode declares with a warning stare.

Brannik sighs, his brave face finally dropping. "Fine," he waves a hand at the deactivated droids around him. "This little operation? Just a way to stay off the radar. These tin cans scare off anyone who comes sniffing around. Usually works, too."

"So, this is who you've been after?" Cal asks in a steadier voice, his strength all but recovered.

"Yeah," Bode says with a faint smile. "Funny how the galaxy works sometimes, huh?"

"Don't I know it," Cal gestures with a similar grin, his attention quietly diverting to Merrin.

"Okay, Brannik," Bode addresses him again in a more serious tone. "You and I are gonna have a little chat. In private," he gestures with his head toward a small metal shack on the side.

Before Cere can protest, she feels Cal's reassuring squeeze on her shoulder, urging her to trust him. She keeps her mouth shut and gives a silent nod, watching both men retreat inside while the droids remain inactive outside.

"That was a close one..." Greez shakes his head disapprovingly.

"It was. But now we'll wait and see if Bode pulls through," Cere replies, a hint of distrust in her voice.

A high-pitched sound comes from BD, drawing Cal's attention. "I don't like this place either, buddy. We'll be gone as soon as Bode signals us." The droid chirps again, and Cal reaches out a comforting hand, resting it on top of BD's visor.

"The droid is correct to be wary. This planet is truly strange," Merrin adds, scanning the area again for any potential threats.

"You understood him?" Cal replies with a wide grin.

"I understood the universal language of caution, husband. Though this planet may seem barren, I sense something foul within its core."

"Merrin's right. Something's definitely off with this place," Cere says, lowering herself onto one knee and placing her palm on the ground.

"Well, whatever it is, we'll be long gone before we can find out!" Greez turns on his heels, facing the Mantis. "I'll go prepare the ship in case even more trouble finds us."

"Thank you, Captain. We'll be right here," Cere rises, looking at Cal with a curious expression. "That was a nice trick you did there with the droids. Jaro taught you that too?"

Cal thinks for a moment before replying, almost unsure of himself. "No... I've never done anything like that before."

"You mean to tell me this was the first time you've used the Force like this? But this technique takes at least a few good months of training to master, Cal," Cere says, raising her eyebrows, now deeply intrigued.

"I'm not even exactly sure what I did. All I could feel was time stopping, and me getting incredibly tired," Cal explains, raising his hands to imitate the gesture he used to freeze the droids.

"Interesting... If you don't mind, I'd like you to give it another try."

"What... now?" Cal feels anxious all of a sudden. He turns his head, trying to feel Merrin through the Force, the witch unusually silent.

"Do not wait for my approval, Cal. This is a matter which only you can resolve," she adds with a sly grin, playfully pushing him forward until he stands between her and Cere.

He feels his ears burning, though he doesn't understand why. Being put on the spot like this was something he always dreaded. A wave of anxiety flashes through him, wondering if he could even replicate what happened in a moment of desperation—like that time he almost lost himself and drew from a dark place, unwilling to let himself be killed.

"Okay, I'll try," Cal says, taking a deep breath and beginning to concentrate.

"Don't put too much pressure on yourself. You'll know it when you feel it," Cere begins to pace in front of him, while Merrin watches from the side with interest. "Let the Force flow naturally through you..."

Cal closes his eyes, inhaling deeply. He can feel the weight of their attention—Cere's measured curiosity and Merrin's playful yet expectant gaze. Even BD emits a soft chirp, as though offering encouragement. Cal lets the tension slip from his shoulders and focuses inward. The Force swirls around him, faint and elusive, like trying to catch smoke with his bare hands. He stretches out with his senses, reaching for the same instinctual connection he felt during the battle. At first, nothing happens.

Cere crosses her arms, studying him intently. "You're holding back. Don't think too hard, Cal. Just feel it."

He exhales sharply, annoyed at himself. Everything seem far easier when acting on pure adrenaline and instinct rather than planning it. He remembers a few training sessions with Jaro Tapal, his wise words a distant reflection of Cere's current ones. Cal wonders if she misses this life, the life of a Jedi Master teaching her Padawan the ways of the Force. He also wonders if she had one before the purge, before disaster struck and took everything from both of them.

"Catch!" Cere suddenly throws a foreign object in his directing, its presence in the Force indicating it will hit him directly in the head if he doesn't move.

The world around him begins to slow. He feels the familiar pull of the Force, a deep vibration resonating through his entire being. Time bends and stretches. The faint hum of the wind grows muffled, and even the distant sounds of droids fades into silence. The object freezes in time for a few seconds, enough for him to take a step forward and place his palm gently around it. A restraining bolt, he recognizes the shape form one of the books in he Jedha archives, a device meant to subdue any droid as it was designed. He wraps his fingers around it as time begins to flow at a normal pace,

"I did it," Cal murmurs, his voice echoing strangely in the stillness. His movements feel heavy, like trudging through water. The strain is immediate, and he can feel his strength draining fast, his breaths coming shorter.

"Not bad," Cere's voice breaks through the silence, startling him. "You have immense talent, Cal, for someone's who's not a Jedi. Imagine your full potential if you trained these powers."

"That... was intense," he admits, still feeling the strong surge of power at the tip of his fingers.

Merrin uncrosses her arms and steps closer, resting a hand lightly on his shoulder. "Your power grows, my love. But remember, the Force demands balance. Do not let this strength consume you."

Cal straightens, her words sparking a memory. The darkness he'd felt during his fight for survival—the fear and anger that had fueled him—lingers at the edge of his mind. He swallows hard, forcing a smile. "Yeah. Balance. Got it."

BD-1 beeps excitedly, tugging at his sleeve. The droid turns its head toward the shack where Bode and Brannik had disappeared.

"Looks like our friend's kept his word," Cere adds as Bode approaches with a smug smile on his face. "I take it you found something?"

"Not just something," Bode replies, excitement evident in his voice. "If this information is true, it's our ticket to finding that rebel agent way faster than anticipated."

"What did you find?" Cal steps closer, Merrin following closely behind him.

"Turns out the Empire's hold isn't as secure as they make it out to be. Information leaks are the bane of every regime's existence, and the Rebel Alliance seems to have infiltrated even their highest ranks."

"Okay. Any of this information useful for our mission, Bode?" Cere asks, her tone edged with skepticism.

"As a matter of fact, very," Bode moves closer to Cere, his voice lowering as if trying to keep the conversation private. "Turns out a well-known senator has been working with the rebellion for months, providing them with inside sources. That's not even the best part," he adds, his grin widening.

"Go on," Cere urges, gesturing for the group to head toward the Mantis while keeping the conversation going. The rest of the crew follows, listening intently.

"A week ago, there was a rumor that a senator will arrive on Bespin in three days for an exclusive party honoring the Empire's new refineries there. And we all know Bespin is universally known for its... rebellious tendencies in the past. If this senator has classified intel, she might know where to find the person you're looking for."

"You're sure about this? I don't want us chasing cold leads," Cere says, coming to a stop as soon as they are all inside the Mantis. "We're already running out of time."

"Positive." Bode leans in. "Listen, there's no way to tell if this intel is one hundred percent true, but Brannik is one of the best at what he does. Besides me," he adds with a nervous laugh.

"Anything else we should know before we head to Bespin?" Cere asks, glancing at the rest of her crew, with Greez joining them form the kitchen.

"Yeah. They'll never let us in looking like this," Bode says, gesturing vaguely at the group. "Think more like rich and spoiled brats, not homeless vagabonds trying to find shelter."

Cere narrows her eyes, clearly not thrilled by Bode's assessment. "Rich and spoiled, huh? Not exactly our style."

"Maybe not, but it's how you're gonna get in," Bode insists. "This party is invitation-only, filled with senators, politicians, and anyone with enough credits to show off their status. We'll need to blend in, and that means playing the part."

Merrin frowns, folding her arms across her chest. "I suppose you already have a plan for this... transformation?"

Bode grins, spreading his arms dramatically. "Of course. I've already lined up a contact. Someone who specializes in disguises and forgery. They'll make us look like royalty."

Cal tilts his head, a skeptical look on his face. "And this contact of yours... can we trust them? Or are we going to have to fight for our lives there too?"

"As much as you can trust me," Bode replies with a wink, earning a groan from Greez."Sorry about that, thought. I didn't mean to put you in harm's way," he ads in a more sincere tone.

"I don't like this,"Greez mutters, scratching the back of his neck "Fancy clothes, snooty parties... it's not our scene. And Bespin? That place is a minefield waiting to blow."

Cere sighs, her gaze shifting to him. "I don't like it either, but we don't have a choice. If this senator has information that can lead us to the rebel agent, we need to take the risk."

Merrin steps closer to Cal, her voice low but firm. "I am ready to face whatever this new world has in store." BD chirps in agreement from Cal's shoulder.

"Then it's settled," Cere says decisively, turning to Bode. "You'll take us to your contact. We'll get what we need and head to Bespin. But remember, Bode, if this lead falls apart..."

"It won't," Bode cuts in, raising his hands defensively. "I'll make sure of it."

"Good," Cere replies, her tone sharp. "Then lets get out of here, captain. Wherever you lead us Bode."

Chapter Text

With the Mantis traveling quietly toward Tarkona, the crew settles into their own distinct habits. Cere slices comms at her usual spot, with BD-1 chirping right beside her. Greez takes on kitchen duty this time, preparing a delicious meal for the rest of the crew, while Merrin retreats to one of the rooms to meditate and strengthen her magick for their journey. Cal remains alone in the engine room, preparing to meditate, but the sound of a figure standing in the doorway distracts him, prompting him to turn his head and investigate the sudden intrusion.

"That was a neat little trick you pulled back there... on Kyrranos. Am I allowed to ask?" Bode's voice echoes inside the engine room as he steps inside, the door closing behind him.

Cal hesitates for a moment, unsure how to proceed. The truth was out whether he liked it or not, and the monks had always scolded him for being a bad liar. With Bode, it seemed there was no reason to try; the man had a keen eye for everything happening around him. He jumps to his feet and gives a small nod, heading toward the bed. With an anxious sigh, he sits at the edge, inviting Bode to join him.

"Nothing gets past you, does it?" Cal finally answers with a small smile.

"I keep telling you people I'm really good at what I do, and nobody believes me. Well, almost nobody," Bode adds with a sincere tone, stretching his fingers before balling them into soft fists. He leans back, crossing his arms, and gives Cal another curious look.

"You seem very different from Cere. You a Jedi too, or...?" he stops suggestively.

"Not exactly," Cal sighs, wondering why he suddenly feels sad. "I can use the Force, but I was never part of the Order. I was rejected by the Council."

"A man of your talents?" Bode leans closer. "I saw what you did with those droids back there, and if you ask me, I've never seen any Jedi do that. Fight? Sure. Dominate the battlefield? Absolutely. But to freeze time like that? Never."

"You once saw Jedi in action?" Cal raises his eyebrows, curious about what else Bode might reveal so casually. "When?"

Bode scoffs bitterly, then lets out a small, prideful laugh. "Not just once. I was an intelligence gatherer for the Republic, remember? I've been on more missions in the field than you've been alive, Cal. Trust me when I tell you... I've seen it all."

The corners of Cal's mouth drop, his expression now serious as he stares through him. "That means you also saw..." he stops, swallowing a tight knot in his throat.

Bode takes a deep breath, noting the shift in mood. "Yeah... I saw it. Front-row seat to the Republic falling in just a few hours. It was... a tragedy," he says, cutting himself off abruptly.

The room falls into an eerie silence, a mournful atmosphere replacing the once-hopeful one. Cal thinks hard about what to say next, but words fail him. All he can do is replay the incident in his mind—the sounds of his dear friends being slaughtered while he ran and hid, waiting for death to claim him too. So many questions linger at the back of his mind, but one refuses to let go. If Bode claims to be so well-informed about the current state of the galaxy, maybe he can finally provide answers to some of Cal's most burning questions.

"What exactly happened that day?" Cal speaks in a soft voice, almost a whisper.

"Huh?" Bode snaps back to reality, evidently consumed by his own thoughts. "When the Republic fell?"

"Yeah. I've heard bits and pieces from... other sources. But now, having you here, I might as well ask since you claim to know everything," Cal adds with a bitter smile.

Bode leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees as he exhales deeply. "It wasn't a big surprise it happened so fast. The Jedi Knights were all stretched too thin, fighting wars they should never have been part of. The Republic was crumbling from the inside. And then—" he pauses, his jaw tightening.

"The Emperor," Cal finishes for him, his voice laced with bitterness.

Bode sighs again, refusing to speak. It's obvious to Cal that someone must be behind all this, orchestrating from the shadows. Yet, he never imagined one being could wield so much influence and power, capable of ending something that, at the time, seemed unstoppable.

"Who is he?" Cal asks with genuine curiosity.

"I only know fragments, small details of his former life," Bode replies. "I mean, we all know the basics and that he was a supreme chancellor named Palpatine serving the old Galactic Republic, but others whisper he's actually a Sith Lord in disguise. It could be true, but there's one thing everyone agrees on—he's not to be messed with, Cal. The power he holds... it's unthinkable."

"What he's doing to the galaxy right now is unthinkable, Bode. That's why we need your help, to hopefully put an end to his Empire. I know we're asking a lot from you."

"It's not just that," Bode straightens, his voice carrying something else, something Cal senses might change the course of their entire ordeal. Whether for better or worse, he can't tell.

"You have someone you care about," Cal remarks with regret.

"Not just someone, Cal." Bode leans forward, ensuring his words land. "She's my everything. And I would do anything to protect her, to make sure she has a better future than I did."

Cal smiles gently, realizing Bode's true motives. "What's her name?"

"Kata," Bode replies, his voice almost breaking. "She's my daughter. Only eight years old, but somehow wise beyond her years. I want to make sure she has everything she needs to enjoy her life, to be better, and not have to live... like I did."

"I get it. We sometimes do things we're not proud of, just to survive..." Cal's voice trails off, wondering what his life might have been like if he hadn't run. Would he be dead, or worse, captured by the Empire? Or could he have fought back and saved his friends?

"Whatever you did... don't dwell on it," Bode says, sliding closer, his tone almost encouraging. He places a soft hand on Cal's shoulder, a small gesture of comfort, but Cal accepts it and sighs mournfully, realizing the truth in his words.

"You're here now, hoping to rebuild a better future for yourself," Bode adds, retreating his hand. "Besides, I've seen the way you behave around Merrin. You're not fooling anyone but yourself, Cal."

A mischievous grin flashes on Cal's lips as he raises his eyebrows in mock innocence. "You think... Merrin likes me?"

"Well," Bode leans back with a sly grin, "I can't say for sure. Nightsisters are hard to read with all their stoic glares. But you, my friend... let's just say you're projecting your feelings from parsecs away."

"It's that obvious, isn't it?" Cal lowers his head, playing along.

"Obvious? Cal, I know a thing or two about love, and in your case, it's terminal, I'm afraid. But hey, if you ever need advice, I'll be happy to help—in exchange for certain details, of course."

"Like what?" Cal raises an eyebrow, confused.

"Oh, I give you advice on winning Merrin's heart, and you keep me informed about Cere's real plans, what Greez is really up to with those funky plants, future missions... minor details, stuff like that."

"Oh," Cal snaps back to face him, "I see. You want me to keep you in the loop. I guess old habits die hard, don't they?"

"Exactly. You won't hurt the crew, and in return, you get to be with the one you love. Seems fair, doesn't it?"

Silence fills the room as Cal contemplates his answer. Bode looks at him, placing a gentle hand on his arm to prompt a response. "Come on, I know you want this. It's written all over your face."

"But what if she doesn't like me back? What then?" Cal presses, determined to see this charade through.

"Then you move on, Cal. There's no shame in trying. The thing about women is, you have to be persistent, even if it seems like failure at first. But you don't have to worry about that. Follow my advice, and I guarantee you'll succeed!" Bode flashes a cheeky grin.

"Maybe I'll even marry her!" Cal adds with a light tone.

"Whoa there! Who said anything about marriage?" Bode pulls his hand back, giving him a strange look. "Let's start with the basics first. Take her out on a nice little date, and then we'll see how it goes."

"Way ahead of you, Bode. But thanks for the advice," Cal jumps to his feet, a sly smirk on his face as he crosses his arms. He raises an eyebrow, the look already drawing a scoff from the older man.

"You cheeky bastard... You played me!" Bode speaks in a low voice, bewildered. "You're not as naïve as I thought," he rises to his feet, measuring the younger man from head to toe.

"And you're not as smart as you think you are," Cal retorts steadily. "But now I know why you're really here, and who you fight for."

"And who is that?" Bode steps closer, almost menacingly.

"At first, I thought it was just for yourself," Cal says, standing his ground. "But it's clear—Kata is your first priority."

"You're right about that," Bode studies Cal for a moment, his expression softening. "You're sharp, Cal. Maybe sharper than I gave you credit for."

"And you're more loyal than you let on," Cal counters, his tone measured. "But loyalty isn't going to keep Kata safe forever. If we're going to stop the Empire, all of it, we need to work together. No secrets, definitely no lies"

Bode nods, though his jaw tightens. "Trust goes both ways. You know that, and for Kata's sake, I'll help. Just know that if things go south, she comes first."

"I wouldn't expect anything less from you," Cal's voice is firm, but there's understanding behind it. "You're not the only one fighting for someone. We all have something, or someone, we're trying to protect."

"Yeah," Bode mutters, rubbing the back of his neck. "So, what's the real deal between the two of you?"

"Merrin's my wife," Cal says simply, turning to leave. He stops at the threshold and turns back to face him again. "She's my everything too."

"Your wife?!" Bode's jaw practically drops as he scratches the back of his head, confusion written all over his face. "That's... not exactly what I expected from someone like you..."

"Someone like me?" Cal retorts, his expression offended. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"Oh, I didn't mean it like that. Trust me," Bode says quickly, raising his hands defensively. "You're young and good-looking, there's no question about that. I just thought, you know, with you being a Force user and all, it'd be... forbidden or something."

"I told you I'm not a Jedi, Bode. I don't follow their rules."

"But you do feel attachment toward her..." Bode trails off, his tone suggestive. "Aren't you afraid of what might happen if something bad happens to her?"

"Merrin can take care of herself. I don't have to worry about that," Cal replies firmly. But deep down, doubt begins to stir. He knows what Merrin is capable of—he's witnessed it first hand. Yet the question still lingers: what if?

"Even the strongest need help sometimes, Cal. You don't need me to remind you of that. You know what happened to the Jedi... or even the Nightsister clan. Her presence here alone suggests not everything is as fine as you think it is. The witches of Dathomir know they need to stick together to remain strong."

"If she ever needs my help, I'll offer it gladly."

"Something tells me you already have," Bode says, inching closer. His voice carries a hint of worry. "There's a reason the Jedi followed strict rules. You can bend them all you want, but you need to know what lines you're willing to cross. If she's your everything, then always be prepared to prove it. Don't hold back."

Bode's words echo in Cal's mind long after he leaves the engine room. Don't hold back. It's advice Cal knows he's rarely followed. He held back when the Nightbrothers attacked. He almost died because of it. He held back during the purge when the clone troopers murdered his friends, afraid to use the full extent of his powers.

Maybe Bode's right. Holding back hasn't kept him safe—it's only left him vulnerable, unable to protect the people he cares about.

As Cal sits cross-legged on the floor, lowering himself into meditation, the words continue to hover over him like a storm cloud. Don't hold back. Bending the rules has worked in his favor before. So why not next time?

He isn't a Jedi—not in the strictest sense. Maybe he can become something else—someone capable of protecting the ones he loves without hesitation, without restraint. For the first time, Cal wonders if bending the rules isn't enough. Perhaps he needs to break them entirely.

The Mantis descends through Tarkona's hazy atmosphere, the planet's amber skies casting a warm, deceptive glow over the bustling cities below. From above, the city is a labyrinth of crooked streets and wierdly-shaped structures, stitched together metal signs and the ceaseless movement of people. As they land in a secluded docking bay, Cal stands at the ship's ramp, his arms crossed. "Tarkona's supposed to be an imperial neutral zone, right?"

Bode chuckles, throwing on his jacket. "Neutral? Sure. If you've got credits to keep it that way. Just keep your head down, and we'll be fine."

"That's comforting," Greez mutters as he powers down the ship. "This is the shadiest city we've been so far, and that saying much!"

"We'll be careful like always," Cere says quietly, slipping her satchel over her shoulder."This is where you come in, Bode."

"Exactly," Bode says, stepping off the ramp first. He glances over his shoulder with a grin. "And lucky for you, I know just the place to make us unrecognizable."

The group follows Bode into the heart of Tarkona, leaving BD-1 behind as they stride through narrow alleys packed with stalls and shadowy figures. The marketplace is alive with the sound of voices, the smell of sizzling street food mingling with the metallic scent of smog. Merchants display wares ranging from shimmering fabrics to strange alien trinkets, each more dubious than the last.

"Are you sure this is the right place? Feels like we're walking into a setup," Cere declares warily, her brown eyes scanning the environment. She keeps one hand resting near her belt, ready for anything.

"Relax," Bode says, waving a hand dismissively. "This is the kind of place where you can buy just about anything, no questions asked. And right now, we need good disguises."

Cal stands still, his head tilting slightly as he listens to the distant clamor of the marketplace, his connection to the Force painting an impressionistic picture of the chaotic surroundings. He steps forward confidently, one hand grazing Merrin's arm to guide him. "Doesn't feel like a setup," he says, his voice calm. "Feels... opportunistic."

"That's Tarkona in a nutshell," Bode quips as they stop at a modest stall draped in rich, jewel-toned fabrics.

A hulking Trandoshan merchant looms over the counter, his yellow eyes narrowing as his tongue flicks out to taste the air. "You're looking for something... sspecial?" he hisses.

"We need outfits that scream wealth and power," Bode says, stepping forward confidently. "Think royalty. The kind of attire that makes people bow when they see us."

"Royalty? Ha!" the Trandoshan hisses again, his voice dripping with skepticism. "An impossible task, you might ssay."

"Look at us!" Bode spreads his arms, a sly grin creeping onto his face. "We just so happen to have been born in the wrong place, that's all," he leans closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "See the redhead over there?"

The Trandoshan's head leans subtly, his eyes locking onto Cal. "Yes," he says, his voice quieter. "What about him?"

Bode's grin widens as he lowers his voice further, ensuring only the merchant can hear. "He's an Alderaanian prince. Lost to his family but heir to an incredible fortune, just waiting to be reclaimed. Once I deliver him safely to his parents, I'll come back and reward you for helping him get reunited with his people."

The Trandoshan's eyes gleam with greed, and he leans in, his tone definitive. "Deal. You have expensive tastes, but I have what you need... for the right price."

"I knew I could do business with you!" Bode shakes the merchant's clawed hand enthusiastically before ushering the crew into the shadowy interior of the stall. The room beyond is packed with racks of ornate clothing: gilded robes, intricately beaded tunics, and cloaks lined with fur and shimmering threads.

"This is ridiculous," Greez mutters, holding up a burgundy coat adorned with gold trim. "I look like I'm about to host a banquet for the Crimson Dawn."

"It's perfect," Bode says, smirking as he fastens a silver brooch to his deep green suit, adjusting the high collar of his shirt. "No one will suspect us dressed like this."

Cere picks up a crimson robe with black embroidery, running her fingers over the fine material. "It's convincing enough, though I feel like I'm stepping into a holodrama," she slips the robe on over her usual outfit and ties a sash around her waist.

Merrin emerges from behind a curtain, wearing a sleek black gown embroidered with red patterns that evoke her Nightsister heritage.The fine material sweeps the floor as she adjusts a silver circlet around her head. "What do you think?"

Cal, sitting nearby, turns his head toward her voice. "You sound... confident," he says, his voice thoughtful. "It suits you."

Merrin smirks faintly, sensing his attention. "Convincing enough to get us into that place?"

Cere nods approvingly, adjusting the cuffs of her robe. "Absolutely. This will do just fine."

Cal stands, his hand brushing along Merrin's arm again as she helps him don a navy-blue tunic embroidered with silver stars. A flowing short cape drapes over his shoulders, and Bode carefully affixes a clasp at his neck. "You look regal," Bode says with a grin, stepping back to admire the crew.

"I feel ridiculous," Cal mutters, adjusting the collar.

"It's all about confidence, Cal," Bode says, clapping him on the shoulder. "Walk like you own the place."

"I'll stick to walking like I know where I'm going," Cal replies with a faint smile.

"Close enough," Bode responds with a grin, walking off toward the exit, leaving the others to finish adjusting.

Merrin watches Bode leave their side, her attention now fully on her husband. Cal senses her gaze and, feels the shift in the air between them. He leans in toward her, his usual calm demeanor faltering, a faint flush creeping to his cheeks.

"So, what do you think?" he asks sheepishly, scratching the back of his neck. "Does this look as good as my wedding tunic?"

Merrin lets out a soft hum, her voice teasing as she moves closer. "Hmm," she murmurs, tracing a finger over his chest where the material of his tunic brushes against his skin. The fabric is soft beneath her touch. "Almost. Though I do prefer you in Dathomirian attire, Cal. It suits you better," her dark lips curl into a playful smile as she steps back, eyes gleaming with fondness.

Cal's smile falters just slightly, and he looks away, avoiding her gaze. "I wish I could see you right now, Merrin. I bet you look very beautiful..." his voice softens, tinged with a quiet sadness as the words leave his lips.

Merrin's eyes flicker with understanding, and she reaches out to touch his arm gently. "You do not need to see me to know how I feel, Cal," her voice warm and reassuring.

He lets out a small sigh, the weight of her words settling over him. He's never doubted the connection between them, and yet there are moments when the absence of sight feels sharper, a void that can't always be filled.

"I know," he replies quietly, lifting his head to face her more directly. "But sometimes, I wish I could see you... the way you deserve."

Merrin steps closer, her presence a steady comfort. "You do see me, Cal. In ways that no one else ever could."

He reaches out for her hand, his fingers finding hers easily, and for a moment, he simply holds on, grounding himself in the feeling of her touch. "I'll never take that for granted, Merrin," he says softly. "You're my everything."

Merrin gives his hand a gentle squeeze, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "As you are mine."

They stand together for a moment, letting the world outside the market fade into the background as they share this quiet, fleeting exchange.

"Time to go, lovebirds. Sorry," Bode's voice tears through their quiet moment, and she gives him a firm nod as she guides Cal outside, never taking her eyes off him. The end of their mission possibly grows near, and Merrin firmly believes that once this matter is resolved they will be able to finally return home once and for all. Valeria's reign of terror must end before she grows bolder and starts considering actively pursuing them in the entire galaxy, with the Second Sister close by her side.

Chapter Text

The ship glides through the cloud-filled sky, descending slowly toward Cloud City. The towering cityscape of Bespin, gleaming white and metallic in the sunlight, stretches high above them like a labyrinth of platforms, walkways, and spires. Cal's ears perk up as the hum of the shuttle's engines softens.

Merrin stands beside him, her gown swishing gently as she gazes out towards the small viewport. Her fingers brush lightly over the edge of the metallic wall, her eyes narrowed, taking in the strange, dizzying height of the floating city.

"How high do you think we are?" Merrin asks, her voice soft but laced with curiosity. The view below them stretches into a thick, golden haze, the vastness of the sky enveloping them.

Cere squints into the distance, her head tilting slightly while she presses a button, scanning the environment below. "High enough to feel like we could fall forever," she mutters. "It's almost... surreal. Everything looks like it's floating in another world."

"I'm not sure if I should be reassured or more worried by your response," Greez butts in, his hands gripping the steering tightly, evidently anxious. BD-1 chirps from the side encouragingly, but all Greez can do is wave his hand dismissively as he guides the Mantis toward the nearest docking port.

"Alright, this is it, folks!" Greez lands the ship almost gracefully, turning to face Bode with a worried look in his eyes. "Are you sure this is gonna work?"

"Absolutely, Greez. As long as everyone plays their part, we'll get our guy and get out of here before the Empire even realizes what we did."

"We'll do our part, Bode," Cere stands up, a determined look flashing in her eyes as she steps closer to him. She stops just in front of him and stretches out her arm. In her palm, a small device lingers—a comlink. "Now it's your turn to deliver on those big promises."

"Is this thing safe?" he raises his eyebrows, hesitant to touch it.

"I altered the frequencies myself," Cere adds with a reassuring glare. "BD-1 helped too, in case you don't trust my skills," she turns to face the small droid, who jumps and trills excitedly.

"Well," Bode reaches out and grabs the device, "if BD-1 helped, then..." he shrugs casually and pockets the device safely. "I guess we're good to go."

"I guess we are..." Cere replies as she takes a deep breath, preparing herself for the mission. Being undercover isn't something she's completely unfamiliar with, but now, facing such danger, she tends to agree she'd rather be in full combat. Still, this is the safest way to reach the rebellion and ensure something that might change their future for the better.

The crew departs the Mantis, walking slowly to avoid raising suspicion, the opulence of Cloud City on full display. Golden lights reflect off the polished floors, and the sound of soft music floats through the air. Guards in crisp uniforms block their way, holding blaster rifles across their chests. One of the guards steps forward, his gaze narrowing at the group. His attention locks on BD-1, perched on Cal's shoulder. "You there! Stop!" he says bluntly.

"Is something wrong?" Bode steps in front of the crew, already prepared to smooth-talk his way out.

"Droids are not permitted past this point, sir," the other guard points toward Cal. BD-1 chirps loudly from his back, the sound making the guard scoff in return.

"Why?" Cere interjects, stepping closer to Bode and crossing her arms defensively. "That droid is part of our crew. Where we go, he goes."

"Apologies, madam, but our host has made it abundantly clear that all droids are banned from this particular party."

Cal stiffens, and BD-1 chirps softly, tilting his head in confusion. Merrin steps closer, ready to intervene, but Bode raises a hand, a sly grin spreading across his face.

"Hold on," Bode says smoothly, stepping forward. "This isn't just any droid. He's a personal assistant. See, my friend here is blind," he gestures toward Cal, "and BD-1 is essential for helping him navigate. You wouldn't deny someone their... accessibility needs, would you?"

The guard hesitates, glancing at Cal, whose blank, unfocused gaze adds truth to Bode's claim. Cal frowns slightly, playing along, though he shifts uncomfortably form one leg to the other.

"Is that true?" the guard asks, his tone softening slightly.

"Yes," Cal says, keeping his voice steady. "BD-1 is my guide. I rely on him to get around. He's no threat."

BD-1 beeps in agreement, hopping from Cal's shoulder to his outstretched arm, tilting his body as if to emphasize his usefulness. The guard still looks skeptical, but another guard leans in and whispers something in his ear. The first guard sighs and steps aside. "Fine," he says grudgingly. "Keep him at your side at all time unless you wish to be swiftly removed form the premise."

"Woudn't dream crossing your path ever again," Bode bows slightly still wearing that miscevous grin on his face, "gentlemen."

The guard gives him a stern look, leaning to look at Cal again but ultimately deciding to let them pass. As they move past the guards, Merrin leans closer to Bode, her voice low and dry. "That was a bold lie."

Bode shrugs with a playful grin. "Wasn't a lie, just... creative truth-telling. Besides, BD-1 is essential. They'd have been heartless to deny us entrance."

Cal sighs, adjusting BD-1 back onto his shoulder as they step further into the lavish halls. "Let's just hope we don't have to get creative again before the night's over."

"I agree. The less attention we draw, the better," Cere interjects as they reach the entrance. Bode had ensured each crew member had a falsified pass, and now they find themselves inside one of the most luxurious places Cere has ever seen in her entire life.

Life on Bespin seems almost untouched by the Empire. The floating cities glimmer even brighter here, their extravagant establishments thriving. Each guest flaunts their wealth obnoxiously, and for once, Cere finds herself agreeing with Bode's idea of disguises. As much as she hates to admit it, Bode is starting to grow on her with his uncanny ability to weasel his way out of just about everything they've encountered so far.

"We should split up. Cover more ground," Bode interrupts her thoughts, gesturing toward the bar and gambling area. "I'll take Greez and mingle on this side, while you kids have fun over there," he nods toward a small crowd that appears to be made up of very important people.

"I like your thinking!" Greez slides up beside Bode, rubbing his hands together in delight.

"No gambling, Greez! We're already low on credits as it is," Cere warns with a stern look, drawing an offended scoff from Greez.

"Are—are you hearing this?" he turns to Bode with an exaggeratedly wounded expression. "I make one tiny mistake, and now I'll never hear the end of it..." Greez shakes his head in disapproval.

"Hey, don't look at me," Bode raises his hands defensively, a playful grin on his face. "I have no idea what you did."

"Doesn't matter anymore, just be careful. A lot of dangerous individuals lurk here despite the pleasant nature of this crowd... let's move," Cere says firmly, redirecting the focus. She gestures for Merrin and Cal to follow her toward the gathering of the more distinguished guests. Bode and Greez split off toward the bar, their casual banter fading into the background as the crew steps further into the lavish party.

The room is a dazzling display of wealth, with chandeliers made of shimmering crystals and tables lined with exotic delicacies. A live band plays soft, melodic tunes that mingle with the hum of polite conversations and laughter. Cal tilts his head slightly, listening to the distinct sounds of glasses clinking and hushed whispers, relying on his heightened senses.

Merrin's presence by his side feels strong through the Force, a testament to her love for him. Cal can't help but feel a bit lightheaded just thinking about it. Never in a million years did he imagine this, but now he can't think of his life without her. The gentle sound of her voice draws his attention, and he straightens his back absentmindedly, leaning in to hear what she has to say.

"This place is so different from Dathomir. It feels as if all eyes are on us..."

"They're probably not used to seeing such a beautiful woman," Cal smirks, the declaration garnering a slight chuckle from Merrin.

"Hmm, perhaps..." she gives another light chuckle. "However, you would be surprised, husband, to learn not all eyes are set on me."

"I did bring a droid to a no-droid exclusive party," Cal replies, while BD-1 chirps quietly on his back, making himself even smaller.

"Or perhaps they simply enjoy what they see," Merrin gives him a light nudge on the shoulder, causing him to stop for a second. "I may not trust Bode fully, but I have to admit, he does have good taste."

Cal adjusts his posture slightly, a faint blush now burning his face as he keeps quiet, aware he's not as inconspicuous as he had hoped to be. He runs a shy hand through his gelled hair, the sensation strange to his fingers, but he doesn't protest as Merrin leads him away from Cere and into the crowd, stopping as soon as they reach an area where soothing, romantic music resounds all around them.

Merrin takes the opportunity to slide in front of him, grabbing his right hand and wrapping it around her waist while she takes his other and holds it gently, keeping close as she begins to lead him into the sway of a tender dance between them.

Cal's eyebrow rises instantly while a sly smile rises on his lips, chuckling slightly. "I had no idea you liked to dance."

Merrin replies with a melodic hum under her lips. "I rarely do, but on special occasions like these, I cannot help it. My mind keeps traveling to some of the stories I used to read...like the one with the Twi'lek princess and the prince. They too shared joyful and intimate moments like these, away from all the pain and suffering..."

"I remember that one," Cal says in an amused tone, swallowing tightly as he struggles to find his footing, a faint blush of embarrassment now permanently residing on his face. "Did you ever get to finish it?"

"No," Merrin replies in a mournful tone, "I barely had time to visit the library before..."

"It's okay," Cal inches closer, sensing her sudden discomfort. "We'll finish it together once this is all over. I can't wait for another one of your reading sessions."

"My husband and his wonderful sense of humor...surely you do not find the sound of my voice so fascinating."

Cal chuckles lightly again, seeming to become more comfortable. "You know I do. I enjoy everything about you Merrin, but most of all I'm glad we're here, together."

Merrin doesn't reply, but instead leans forward, resting her head on his shoulder as she takes a deep breath, basking in the quiet and tender moment they currently share. No amount of words can describe the peace and tranquility she feels as she continues to sway gently on the dance floor, the sound around her drowning in the silence Cal offers.

She barely catches the faint but absolute sign from Cere, her eyes almost apologetic but urging them to return to their mission, and they leave the dance floor, hands still intertwined, both basking in each other's scent. Cal clears his voice while he approaches Cere with a serene look on his face, wondering if she found something. His boots travel lightly against the marble floor, stopping as soon as they reach her side. "What exactly are we looking for here?" he asks quietly, keeping his voice low.

"Anything that might point us to the rebel agent," Cere answers, her eyes scanning the crowd. "And anyone who seems out of place among all this decadence."

"The only ones who seem out of place here are the three of you," a melodic voice drifts toward them, quiet and discreet yet sharp enough to cut through the chatter of the crowd.

They all turn immediately to face the stranger. An adult woman with shorter, red hair greets them, her skin light and her eyes kind. She wears an exquisite soft-blue gown and her lips curve into a gentle smile as she continues, "Ah, four. Pardon my manners—I didn't see your little droid."

BD-1 chirps softly, almost as though he's trying to be as inconspicuous as possible. Cal tilts his head slightly, sensing something odd in her tone, while Merrin's sharp eyes narrow with suspicion. Cere clears her throat, drawing the woman's attention to herself.

"We're just simple guests," Cere says, her tone even and controlled. "I think you might have us mistaken for someone else."

"Simple guests?" the woman laughs weakly, though her amusement is tinged with something deeper. "Guests who bend the rules? You must be very privileged indeed."

"No privilege, trust us," Cal interjects, his voice tinged with bitterness. The woman's eyes shift to him, noting his serious expression and the way he seems to look right through her.

"And yet, there are those who might think otherwise," she replies, her voice carrying an hint of suggestion, as if her words are meant to carry a double meaning. "Still, I doubt you've come here just to mingle and relax."

"Who are you?" Merrin demands sharply, her voice low and edged with menace.

"Not here," the woman replies calmly, gesturing with a subtle tilt of her head toward a more secluded area. "Even the walls have ears."

Cere gives her a swift nod, signaling her agreement, and the group follows the stranger to a quieter section at the back of the grand room. She takes a seat on one of the larger, plush sofas, her movements poised and deliberate. A glass of expensive wine dangles elegantly from her fingers as her eyes scan the crowd with a neutral expression, as if she isn't truly seeing them.

"Cere Junda, is that correct?" the woman speaks casually, her gaze still fixed on the other guests.

"You know me?" Cere's breath catches slightly, though she quickly reins in her surprise, keeping her voice steady.

"More than you realize, Master Jedi," she lowers her voice and stares at Cere, noting the wild look in the older woman's eyes. "Do not panic," the woman gives her a reassuring smile, determined to prove she is no threat.

"Have we met?" Cere leans closer. "Before?"

"Not face to face. But we have collaborated indirectly on other, more out worldly businesses," the woman raises her eyebrow suggestively. "To say who I am might jeopardize my mission in the long run, but I assure you that I have friends everywhere."

"Are we certain she is to be trusted?" Merrin whispers to Cere, her eyes burning with untamed fire.

"I assure you, Nightsister, that I am," the woman says as she slides a small data disk onto the glass table in front of them. She quickly retracts her hand, her eyes scanning the crowd with a nonchalant stare. "What are you waiting for? Take it," she whispers, maintaining her calm composure.

Cere doesn't wait for another plea as she grabs the object quickly and tucks it under her garments. She stares at the woman in front of her with a confused yet grateful look, still unsure who she is and how she found them so fast. As if sensing Cere's gaze, the woman turns and gives her a kind smile.

"You may not see it yet, but rest assured, you and I share the same goals," she suddenly rises to her feet, still holding the glass of wine gracefully in her hand. "Until next time. It was a pleasure to meet you all."

"Likewise. Thank you," is all Cere can manage to say before the woman disappears into the vast crowd. It feels like a fever dream, but right now, Cere is absolutely sure that the data disk is the only way to reach their goal. She rises to her feet rapidly and signals Bode to meet them outside as soon as possible.

"No, no! You gotta twist your wrist!" Greez declares loudly, demonstrating his technique as he begins another round of a fancier version of Corellian Spike. Not the one played by smugglers and lowlifes, as the dealer so nonchalantly declared, but a more refined version—for more refined people.

The dice roll perfectly to the center of the table, making Greez's eyes widen as he grabs the cards and grins. "See? I told you I still had it in me!"

"That's all nice and dandy, Greez," Bode leans closer to whisper in his ear, "but don't forget why we're here."

"I never did," Greez replies, patronizing him with a shake of his head, his eyes fixed on the cards in front of him. "I'm blending in with the crowd, Bode."

Bode scoffs lightly, watching the game unfold. His eyes travel over to the other people gathered at the table—various humanoid and alien races all here to gamble and lose their credits. He turns to face the other crowd, hoping to spot the rest of the crew, but so far, he can't see them. They must be scattered around this gigantic room, searching for their man.

A quick question stirs inside his mind. What happens when they do find him? So far, every detail about their quest seems incomplete, and Bode wonders what exactly motivates this crew. With Cere, it's fairly obvious, with her relentless refusal to let go of her past life. But with Cal and Merrin, something doesn't add up. Cal breaks every rule in the book when it comes to being a Force user, and he's even formed an unbreakable attachment to Merrin along the way.

Maybe the witch has him under a spell, but so far, he's shown no signs of corruption. So maybe... A small sound catches him off guard, and he begins to pat himself down, finding the small comlink Cere gave him stashed inside his pocket.

"Finally," he answers. "Found something?"

"Actually, we did..." Cere's voice resounds weakly through the device. "Meet us outside on the east side. There's a large balcony, the second one to the right."

"Copy that," Bode declares in a discreet voice. "We're on our way."

Okay, so Cere might not be as clueless as he thought, Bode remarks as he drags a protesting Greez from the table right before his lucky hand wins the game. The mission is nearing its end, and he's done exactly as he was asked. And yet... he now finds himself not wanting to part ways.

It's been a long time since he's had friends like these—people he actually feels he can trust—and Bode wonders why he feels this way. Being alone with Kata for so long seemed fine, but now that he's had a taste of real friendship... he kind of wants more.

The balcony is barren, save for a few strange bird-like creatures that fly away as soon as they reach it. Cere has already signaled Bode to meet them here, and Merrin leans over the metal rail, casting her gaze on the beautiful clouds beneath them. Everything on this world feels like a dream—soft and elegant compared to the harsh environment of Dathomir—and yet Merrin can't say if she'd choose this life.

Maybe her adventures beyond her home world have rendered her soft, as she feels a peculiar lightheadedness invade her. The sensation makes her knees weak. Her hands tighten around the metal rail, afraid of losing her balance, but a steady hand at the small of her back reassures her that she is safe.

"Everything okay, Merrin?" Cal speaks in a worried tone. "You seem awfully quiet."

"It is nothing, Cal," she gestures a light smile and turns to face him. "I seem to have a difficult time adjusting to this world, that is all."

"Difficult time? How so?" Cal leans closer, now deeply concerned.

"I do not know how to explain..." her voice trails off, unsure how to voice her symptoms. "But I have been feeling a bit weak for this past hour or so."

"Maybe it's the altitude?" Cal searches for her hands, and when he finds them, he gives her a soft squeeze. "My ears have been ringing like crazy ever since we got here. Can you still use your magick?"

Merrin thinks for a moment. It has been a while since she used it, but everything seems fine for now as she lights a vibrant green flame in her palm, watching it closely. "How peculiar... it is even more potent here."

"I'm guessing everything's fine," Cal adds understandingly. "We'll rest soon, okay?"

Merrin nods softly at Cal's reassurance, extinguishing the green flame with a flick of her wrist. "Yes, rest sounds... agreeable," she murmurs, though her gaze drifts back toward the clouds below, her thoughts clearly elsewhere.

Before Cal can press further, the quiet hum of approaching footsteps interrupts them. Bode and Greez appear at the far end of the balcony, with Greez muttering something about how he almost won the game they pulled him from.

"Good to see you all relaxing up here while we do all the heavy work," Greez quips, arms crossed, though there's a spark of humor in his eyes.

"We found him," Cere announces, wasting no time. Her voice carries a sense of urgency, though she keeps it measured. "He's in the east wing, three floors down. A private suite."

"Security?" Bode asks, stepping closer.

"Minimal. But this is a high-profile party so there's always the risk of reinforcements," Cere replies. "We'll need to move quickly and quietly."

"Quick and quiet," Greez scoffs. "You do realize who you're talking to, right? Subtlety isn't exactly this crew's strong suit."

"Then it's time to learn," Cere says firmly, her gaze sweeping across the group. "We can't afford mistakes. Let's not waste our time anymore and get this over with."

"Lead the way, Cere" Cal replies as he senses Merrin by his side, breathing softly. "Are you sure you're okay?"

"I am fine, Cal," she assures him, her voice steady but warm. "Do not worry about me."

"I'll try, but I can't make any promises," Cal hesitates but finally nods in agreement.

Together, the group moves back into the opulent interior of the building, their boots muffled against the luxurious carpets. The tension in the air thickens as they approach the staircase leading down, every step bringing them closer to their target.

As they descend, Cal brushes a hand against the wall, his senses amplifying slightly. The sensation of the Force grows stronger here—wild and unpredictable, like the faint hum of a storm on the horizon. He feels it surge, a pulse of energy that nearly makes him stumble, but disappears immediately after.

"Something's wrong," he whispers, causing the group to stop in their tracks.

"What is it?" Bode asks, his voice low but firm.

Cal remains in his spot, concentrating. "I felt... a shift, like a small disturbance in the Force, but now it's gone."

"A disturbance?" Cere shifts closer, worried. "We need to move faster."

They continue descending the staircase, the luxurious surroundings offering no comfort against the unease settling over them. The faint sounds of conversation and distant laughter from the grand hall above fades with each step, replaced by an unsettling silence.

"Keep your eyes open, who know what we'll find here," Bode mutters, his hand hovering near his blaster.

Cal leads the way now, his connection to the Force keeping him alert. The wild energy he felt moments ago seems to have vanished, but the memory of it lingers like a shadow at the edge of his mind. The staircase ends in a dimly lit corridor, its polished floors gleaming under soft, golden lights. Ahead, a set of ornate double doors stands partially open, revealing a glimpse of the private suite beyond.

"This is it," Cere whispers, gesturing for the group to halt.

Bode creeps forward, peering through the narrow opening in the doors. His sharp eyes scan the room, taking in its lavish furnishings and the solitary tall, cloaked figure seated at the far end, silhouetted against the glow of a massive floor-to-ceiling window.

"He's alone," Bode reports quietly. "No visible guards. Looks like he's waiting for someone."

Cere nods, her voice firm. "Good. We keep this quick and quiet. No unnecessary risks."

"Got it," Cal replies, his voice steady despite the knot tightening in his chest. As they move closer, his steps falter and his right hand shifts to the walls, his heightened senses picking up faint vibrations in the air, subtle but unnatural. "Something feels very different here..."

Cere glances at him. "What do you mean?"

Cal hesitates, searching for the right words. "The Force here... it feels cloaked. Concealed."

"Great," Greez grumbles from the back, his voice barely above a whisper. "Because this wasn't already nerve-wracking enough."

Bode tightens his grip on his blaster, his index hovering over the trigger. "Get ready in case we need to run in the opposite direction."

The group advances, their movements synchronized and deliberate. Bode is the first to slip into the room, his blaster drawn but held low. He signals the all-clear, and the others follow. As soon as the entire group enter the room, the doors close behind them tight shut. The tall figure turns to face them, his dark cloak cleverly hiding his figure. The crew approaches carefully, keeping their guard up in case they need to run or worse – fight back.

"Who are you?" Cere demands, her voice cutting through the silence like a blade.

Large purple hands emerge from under the cloak, wrapping around the hood concealing his face. In one swift motion, he removes the disguise, revealing a considerably familiar figure beneath.

"I see you've found me after all, Master Junda," the older Lasat says in an imposing but kind voice. "I was beginning to lose hope."

Cal rushes to the front of the group before Cere can reply, a look of wild disbelief etched on his features. He dares to press further, unsure if he heard correctly. The Lasat takes a sharp, deep breath as soon as he spots Cal, his emotions blaring through the Force like never before.

"Master Tapal?" Cal asks in a raspy voice, barely keeping his emotions in check. "You're—you're alive?"

"It appears I'm not the only one full of surprises," Jaro steps closer until he is standing right in front of Cal, looking at him as though he has seen a ghost. Before Cal can respond, Jaro pulls him into a tight hug. "It is good to see you, my friend! I'm glad you're not dead!"

"Likewise!" Cal grins widely as he returns the hug, patting the older man on the back. When they pull apart, confusion flashes across Cal's face before understanding replaces it. "So, you're the rebel agent we've been looking for?"

"That would be me," the Lasat straightens his back as he turns his gaze toward Cere, a more serious expression replacing his joy. "Master Junda," he says, giving her a firm nod. She responds in kind.

"I—I don't even know what to say," Cere finally speaks, still reeling from the shock. "I never thought another Jedi Master survived the Purge…But, how?" she steps closer, her curiosity written all across her face.

"The same way you did, Cere," Jaro replies, gesturing with his head for them to approach. The tension in the room begins to dissipate as the group moves closer.

The all step closer, the sudden reveal of Jaro Tapal's presence met with th joy and utter confusion form eveytone present in the room. Merrin stays at the edge of the group, observing silently. Her sharp eyes study the Lasat Jedi, her curiosity tinged with the same caution she carries for all strangers.

"The last time I heard of you was during the fall of the Jedi Order. I thought you—" Cere hesitates, unable to finish the thought.

Jaro nods, his expression somber. "I was betrayed by own crew... so many of us died that day... I managed to flee with an escape pod in the vast jungles of Mygeeto. My Padawan, however, did not reach the pod in time," his gaze shifts back to Cal, the faintest hint of regret flickering in his eyes.

"I'm sorry... about your Padawan," Cal interjects with a mournful tone.

"Do not be, my friend," Jaro's voice echoes inside the room, almost reassuringly. "He is one with the Force as we speak and does not have to witness these dark times we are enduring," he leans over to carefully inspect the rest of the crew. His eyes scan Bode from head to toe, then proceed to look at Greez until his gaze finally settles on Merrin.

"A Nightsister? What an unusual group of companions you have gathered here..." he smiles as he turns his eyes back to Cal, giving BD-1 a gentle nod and a wink.

"Master Tapal, we don't have much time," Cere interjects from the side. "As much as we'd like to just sit and reminisce about old times, our mission comes first. We found your datapad on Nar Shaddaa, destroyed."

"That would be my fault," he responds in a serious tone. "I destroyed it."

"Now why in the Sith hells would you do that?" Bode interjects from behind, his expression curious.

"Because," Jaro inhales sharply before continuing, "the information on that datapad could bring an end to the Empire. I destroyed it before any imperial agents could get their hands on it."

"An end? Are you certain of this?" Merrin's interest now peaks as she voices her concern.

"Absolutely," Jaro declares in a firm voice, eyeing the group with a deadly serious stare. He turns to face Cal with a softer expression. "I would not risk my life like this if I wasn't so certain... It's real...a way out for all of us."

Cal's shoulders tense, reaching out around him to try to sense whatever his crew was feeling right now. With Cere it was obvious, the sudden rush of hope practically gleaming through her pores at the mere mention of someting strong enough to possibly put an end to the Empire. But the rest were not so easy to sense, especially Merrin, who kept herself unusually quiet in the corner, her thoughts private but not to difficult to read.

Bode and Greez make sure to make their own opinion heard, so there's no need to second-guess, the doubt swirling in their words only amplified by BD-1's own wry remarks, the compact droid certainly leaning in favor of their strong opinions that while this may be wishful thinking, the Empire only grows stronger every day, and soon, it will be practically impossible to defeat it, even with secretly ancient or newly discovered technology in their grasp.

But for now, Cal has to hold on to the hope that while Jaro Tapal's words might seem far fetched, they will hold even the tiniest amount of truth in them.

Chapter Text

Dathomir's sun sets before Valeria's eyes, casting a crimson glow over the landscape—a perfect match for the blood that has been shed not long ago. The decaying bodies of her long gone sisters still roam the premises of the main temple, though many have already been discarded by imperial forces, and she finds herself mourning their purpose. To be used as fodder for Merrin's escape was an insult to their clan, one that she will never forgive. She reflects on their grim fate, the words of her message still resounding in her mind, while her fingertips remain faintly stained with a reddish hue.

"To all the clans on Dathomir, I bring this message from the Nightsisters: All remaining clans must swear their undying loyalty to our glorious Emperor so that we may thrive, as the ones before us did. Refusal to comply will mark you as enemies of the Galactic Empire, and you will face dire consequences. I urge you not to repeat the mistakes of our brothers and sisters from the Howling Crags. Their defiance and retaliation met a swift and brutal end, as you can all see."

She hurled the head as soon as she finished recording the message, but its weight still clings to her fingers, refusing to let itself be forgotten. The Nightsisters must thrive, she keeps chanting, though to whom, she does not know. The Second Sister shows no mercy—that much is evident in her stare—but there is something else behind those angry eyes. Something desperate, clawing to break free, and Valeria wonders how anyone could come to be like this.

Perhaps the Empire's dominion over the galaxy has shaped her. Their ruthless rules have proven to be an effective way to subjugate even the strongest warriors. Valeria's thoughts linger on the Second Sister's gaze, trying to decipher the chaos swirling beneath her exterior. Was she born into this cruelty, or was it carved into her by the Empire's unrelenting grip?

The Second Sister turns sharply, her cloak flowing behind her like a shadow stretching to consume everything in her path. "You hesitate, Valeria," she says, her voice sharp as obsidian. "Do you doubt the Emperor's will? Or do you doubt your own place in his grand design?"

Valeria stiffens but does not meet her eyes. "I do not doubt," she replies, her voice steady despite the conflict within. "I question. Questioning leads to strength. Blind faith is the tool of the weak."

The Second Sister's lips curl into something that might resemble a smile, though it holds no kindness. "And yet questioning has led many to their graves," she counters. Her words hang heavy in the air, a subtle warning veiled in logic. "Remember that, should your questions ever cloud your loyalty."

The conversation ends as abruptly as it began. The Second Sister strides away, leaving Valeria to stare after her. The Nightsisters must thrive, Valeria reminds herself again. But what price must they pay to ensure survival? Is the cost of loyalty to the Empire greater than defiance?

Her eyes drift to the horizon, where the crimson sky now melts into darkness. Dathomir has always been a place of blood and shadows, but this new darkness feels different—colder, hungrier. The Empire's touch poisons everything it reaches, and even the Nightsisters' ancient magick feels dimmed under its iron rule.

Before her thoughts consume her entirely, an imperial messenger arrives in the room. He whispers something into her ear, and her eyes widen in surprise. She gives him a quick nod and gestures for his departure, leaving her alone once more.

A foreign ship marked with Dathomirian sigils has been found abandoned on a distant world, thousands of parsecs away. How foolish she is to have assumed Merrin would be so naïve as to remain on this world after her unexpected betrayal. The Mother is smarter than she anticipated and braver than she could have ever imagined. Valeria would never have thought her capable of abandoning her home world so quickly.

It is the Jedi's fault, she remarks bitterly, a wave of contempt drowning her once-curious nature. He is solely responsible for this entire ordeal. If he had not arrived here, the clan would still have their Mother, and she would not have been forced to resort to such desperate acts of survival. The Jedi ruin everything in their path, and this time is no exception. Now, he has blinded Merrin as well, corrupting her thoughts and bending her will to his.

Valeria curses once more the day she agreed to their union. A grave mistake—one that nearly led to the destruction of her clan. Never again, she vows as she sends word to the Second Sister with the location of the ship. If anyone in the galaxy is capable of ending this farce once and for all, it is undoubtedly her.

"I still can't believe you're alive..." Cal speaks in a low voice, utterly bewildered. He can sense Jaro's presence through the Force strong, almost as if he never left his side all those years ago. The Jedi Master was always a dear friend, and ever since he saved him, Cal believed he was brought to his home world with a purpose. Everything happens for a reason, and this time it feels even more true than ever.

"It is something I, too, wonder, how I managed to live while others were less fortunate..." Jaro replies, a hint of bitterness seeping though his tone. "You know, I visited Jedha... a month ago. I found the monastery empty, the monks buried below it. I'm guessing you had something to do with that," Jaro says with a faint smile at Cal. "Though I do not know how you managed to survive, I am glad that you did."

"So, you did come back... I—it's a long story," Cal sighs, dreading having to explain exactly everything he went through up until this point. "But to make it short, the Force had other plans for me."

"And now we're all here, asking for your help," Cere interjects with a pleading look in her eyes. "Master Tapal, what was on that datapad?"

Jaro hesitates for a moment, staring the crew down with an incredibly serious expression. He studies their faces long enough for the room to become uncomfortable, but before anyone can break the silence, he decides it's better to speak and get it over with.

"A few months ago, I sent a small team to scour uncharted territories on the edges of the Outer Rim. Planets that might host rebel bases safe from the eyes of the Empire, hidden words, abandoned and safe," he begins, the crew's attention now solely on him.

"Is that even possible?" Cere asks. "Places untouched by the Empire?"

"I didn't believe it at first either, but surprisingly, there are still a few planets or moons where even the Empire's forces wouldn't dare to venture to," Jaro replies, his tone more hopeful. "Barren worlds that hold deep secrets, away from curious eyes. Among them, they found exactly what we were looking for, if not better—Kael'Thora."

"Kael-what?" Greez adds with a confused stare. "I've never heard of that one!"

"It's better that you didn't. It's a cold, lonely moon orbiting a dying star in the Abyssal Reach. My team almost died reaching the other side, but when they finally did..."

"They found something worth the risk there," Cere says, leaning closer, now fully engaged.

"Not just something. It seems even the Jedi archives had their limits, as this system was never even mentioned in their records. In fact, the only way my team found it was by accident, when one of their scanners measured an unusual amount of hydrogen near their location."

"So, Kael'Thora is the key to unlocking whatever we need to defeat the Empire?" Cal asks, his doubt evident. BD-1 chirps from his back, voicing his concern as well.

"This isn't just some simple moon with resources, Cal. There's no life on it, but my men did find one structure on its surface. A Jedi temple, right at its center, perfectly aligned from all sides."

"A temple?" Merrin interjects, her voice resounding into the now-silent room, her eyes narrowing with suspicion. "How strange... Did they explore it? Was anyone inside?"

"They didn't get far," Jaro replies simply. "But they did manage to scan most of it's surface, or at least what they believed was the main entrance. From what they gathered, the temple is littered with Jedi relics and artifacts from the time of the Old Republic. It's also way larger on the inside than it appears. But the more they went deeper, the more they started to fear it."

"Something scared them off? That doesn't sound suspicious at all..." Bode joins the conversation, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed over his chest in a relaxed manner.

"I don't know what happened exactly, just that they felt scared and wanted to leave immediately. I'm guessing something there kept them away."

"Like what?" Cal interjects, a pang of worry in his tone.

"I... honestly don't know, they said it was empty but...too strange for their liking. Maybe only Jedi are allowed inside," Jaro shrugs before continuing. "But whatever it is, it needs to be investigated. I'm telling you, Cal, the energy readings inside that place, they're nothing like I've ever seen!"

"Okay, say we somehow manage to get there, assuming we don't die on our way," Greez steps in front of them, waving his hands to draw all the attention to himself. "Then what? What if we get blasted to smithereens the second we set foot inside? Are we absolutely sure it's safe?"

Cal nods slightly from his place, somewhat agreeing with Greez's statement. A place like that seems almost too good to be true, and even Jaro's team felt the danger it posed, unwilling to press further. But still, a temple like that could hold unimaginable secrets, and once again, Cal reminds himself of his duty. Keeping the history of the galaxy may not exactly be his job anymore, but he still feels bound to his oath—to honor the memory of the monks who taught him that preserving the history of those who came before them was a top priority. Even if the temple holds no ancient weapon capable of defeating the Empire, it's worth checking out. And now, the wariness inside his body is replaced by a more steady curiosity.

"My men are safe right now so no, I don't think you'll be 'blasted to smithereens' once you get inside," Jaro ads in a more lighthearted tone."I'll give you the exact coordinates to it and the way to glide through the abyss safely so you don't end up in dead space."

"I think we should go check it out," Cal speaks in a determined voice, surprising Greez with his sudden change of mind.

"Playing with ancient stuff usually doesn't end well..." Greez remarks bitterly.

"He's got a point," Cere says cautiously. "The Force can guide us, but it can also deceive us. What if this temple isn't meant to be visited at all?"

Jaro's gaze hardens. "That's a risk we have to take. The Empire isn't slowing down. They're relentless, and they're getting stronger every day. If we don't find a way to fight back, if we don't give people hope, we've already lost."

Silence falls over the crew as they absorb Jaro's words. Even Greez, usually quick with a quip, has nothing to add. BD-1 chirps softly, breaking the tension. Cal reaches behind at the little droid on his shoulder and sighs. "If this ancient temple is as powerful as you say, then we have to visit it. We've come this far; we can't turn back now."

Jaro nods, a flicker of gratitude passing over his face. "Good. Here are the coordinates...but I need you all to understand something—this mission won't be easy. The Abyssal Reach is dangerous, and that's before we even get to the Jedi temple. You'll need to trust in the Force more than ever."

"You won't be joining us?" Cere asks with a confused look.

"I'm afraid I cannot," Jaro replies with a disappointed tone. "There are currently more... urgent issues that require my personal attention. Believe me when I say, I would have gone there myself, but—"

"If this is what we need to do, then we're ready," Cal reassures him with a determined look on his features. He places a reassuring hand on BD-1's head, drawing a small, encouraging chirp from his little friend.

"Let's just hope your mystery moon isn't really as bad as it sounds," Greez mutters with a hint of hope in his tone.

"Only one way to find out, Greez," Cal declares. "We go to Kael'Thora and find this temple. Whatever it takes."

"Wait, before you go," Jaro reaches out, placing a gentle hand on Cal's shoulder. "There's something I want to give you."

"More enigmas to share, old man?" Bode rolls his eyes sarcastically. "Great!"

Merrin gives him a cold glare from across the room, and he takes notice of her stare, swallowing a tight knot in his throat. He gives her a small nod and remains quiet. Jaro's hands reach under his cloak, retrieving a familiar object. He takes Cal's hand and guides his fingers to palpate the cold, unyielding durasteel. Cal's eyebrows rise in surprise as soon as he recognizes what it is, a quick smile flashing on his lips before being replaced by a confused expression.

"Wait! Is that—"

"If there's one person in this galaxy I could fully entrust my lightsaber to, it's you, Cal," Jaro replies in a soft voice. "I've been wanting to do this ever since the Council rejected my request, but now... it feels absolutely right."

"Master Tapal—"

"My days using this are over," Jaro interrupts him instantly. "I'm giving it to you because I believe you'll use it well, as I once did."

A conflicted plethora of emotions crosses Cal's features as Jaro lets go of his weapon, passing it to him. He's never held one in his hands for more than a few seconds, the sensation already overwhelming him as his fingers wrap around the lightsaber. Something stirs deep inside him, the Force calling to him. He feels every presence in the room incredibly strongly, and for one moment, it feels as if he's done this his entire life—as if this was what he was meant to do from the start.

"You may not believe it, but it suits you better than it ever did me, Cal." Jaro's voice breaks his train of thought, bringing him back to reality. "The Jedi Order is gone, and there are many threats wandering this galaxy, but with that, at least you'll be able to defend yourself and your crew... should the need arise."

"I don't even know what to say except thank you," Cal grips the lightsaber with both hands, bringing it to his chest, holding onto it like a precious object.

"Don't say anything. Just take it, and may it serve you well in your adventures," Jaro's hand now rests comfortably on Cal's shoulder. "And never forget the most important thing—"

"Trust always in the Force," Cal's voice is soft but firm, and he gives Jaro a quick and thankful nod, his hands still gripping the lightsaber tightly. The air around him feels thick, with something lingering inside it, something peculiar. Cal takes a deep breath, the hairs at the back of his neck prickling. He feels Jaro's grip tighten around his shoulder, and his muscles tense instantly.

"Something's—"

"Wrong!" Cere adds in a worried tone, pacing behind them. He can feel the anxiety etched in her voice. The sound of her blaster already in her hand alerts Cal, while the entire crew stands on edge, ready to move at the first sign of trouble.

"I felt it too! The Empire?" Cal turns in Cere's direction.

"Yeah! We've been made!" Bode is already at the door, taking a peek outside as a patrol of stormtroopers dashes past, unaware of his presence. "Time to scram, people!"

Jaro's expression hardens as he hears the distant echo of marching boots. His grip on Cal's shoulder tightens, anchoring him for a moment. "Go. Take the others and get out of here," Jaro says firmly, his voice low but firm.

Cal refuses to leave, planting his feet on the ground. "What? No! You have to come with us—"

"There's no time to argue, Cal. If I stay, I can buy you all the time you need," Jaro pulls his hood up, his eyes gleaming with determination.

"Master Tapal!"

"Do not waste this, Cal!" Jaro's voice cuts through the tension, leaving no room for debate. He steps forward, opening the door to ensure he's made his message heard. "Go! Now!"

Cere grabs Cal by the arm, yanking him toward the exit. "We have to move!" she urges, her blaster already drawn.

The crew sprints through the narrow corridors, Merrin waving her hands to create an eerie green mist that obscures their path behind them. Bode takes point, his blaster ready, while Cal grips the lightsaber with both hands, his heart pounding in his chest. Cloud City is currently overrun by imperial troopers from all sides, the once beautiful and peaceful environment now drenched in the echo of marching footsteps. The white armor of the stormtroopers reflects the flickering lights inside the establishment as they flood the area, a seemingly endless number of them already securing every exit in sight.

"Dank farrik, this sucks!" Bode mutters, clutching his blaster tightly to his chest as he watches more troopers file in. "Who the hell let these guys in?"

"I don't think they're here for the drinks!" Greez hisses, ducking behind a corner just before he can be spotted, his eyes darting nervously as he peeks around.

"Calm yourself, Latero. We will emerge victorious from this battle," Merrin declares coldly, her voice steady and firm. Her hands begin to spark with green magick, faint tendrils swirling ominously, ready to attack.

"Let's try to get out of here quietly," Cere interjects quickly, reaching out to lower Merrin's hands cautiously before the swirling energy draws attention. "Okay?"

"Maybe you could do that trick again," Cal whispers, careful to keep his voice low. "Like you did with the Mantis?" BD-1 chirps softly from Cal's shoulder, mimicking his cautious movements.

Merrin shakes her head, her expression calm but resolute. "I cannot. I left my orb on the ship, along with my Nightsister garments."

"Well, that's just great," Greez mutters, his tone edging toward panic. "Now what? How are we supposed to get out of here?"

A loud explosion resounds around them, with smoke and screaming engulfing the once peaceful corridors. Cal focuses, trying to pinpoint the exact location of the blast, realizing it was Master Tapal's doing. Even now, he was still fighting for what was right. Cal silently prays for him to make it out alive this time, too.

"That's our cue to leave," Cere declares as she steps forward, tighteing the grip on her blaster. With her free hand, she begins scanning the area, commanding Bode to keep watch at the back of the group while they advance rapidly toward the exit.

"There's the exit!" Merrin points toward a familiar path—the one they took when they arrived.

"Get the ship ready, Captain!" Cere turns to Greez with a desperate look in her eyes. He nods quietly, quickening his pace until he's at the front of the group, muttering worriedly under his breath.

The enviroment erupts into chaos as more Imperial soldiers pour in from all sides, with guests fleeing at the first chance they get. The more ships leave, the darker the sky grows, the sun setting rapidly. Greez manages to reach the ship before them, and the crew follows behind, careful not to be seen. The Mantis's ramp lowers swiftly, allowing Greez to finally climb aboard first.

"Watch out!" Greez shouts, pointing toward a fast-approaching red light emerging from the smoke. Realizing what it is, he rushes inside the ship.

Cere ducks to the side, pulling Cal down before the burning object can strike him. It flies past them, embedding itself into the ramp with a loud, ominous hum. The pulsating crimson light violently illuminates the scenery, casting a sinister glow. There's a strange but brief moment of silence as Cere's eyes frantically scan for the owner of what is unmistakably a corrupted lightsaber. The smoke and ash hang thick in the air, but she's certain she can make out a shadowy figure emerging from the gray fog, walking menacingly toward them, and then—yes—that's an Inquisitor, all right.

"Run inside the ship! Now!" Cere screams to the rest of the crew. A flash of horror renders her momentarily paralyzed, terrified to see the Inquisitor in the flesh. She knows their strength, their ruthlessness, but above all, she dreads—

"Nowhere to run, Cere," a familiar voice echoes around them, loud and imposing. The figure eventually steps into view, and Cere doesn't know whether to feel relieved or terrified. The Fourth Sister—Lyn Rakish, as she used to know her—now stands with her hand stretched out, calling her weapon back into her grasp.

"Don't do this, Lyn," Cere rises to her feet, shielding Cal behind her. "Please... you can still walk away," she pleads, her eyes desperate as she glances behind her, only to realize they are entirely surrounded by stormtroopers from all sides, the path to the ship obstructed.

Merrin's hands are now alight with magick, her deadly glare fixed on the enemy. Bode remains silent, scanning the threats with his blaster in his hand, while Cal listens closely, using the Force to sense their proximity. The stormtroopers' blasters begin to rise, only to stop as the Fourth Sister lowers her hand, her piercing gaze locked on the former Jedi Master.

"I have to admit," she begins, taking a calculated step forward, her tone dripping with disdain. "I severely underestimated your incompetence," her eyes flick briefly to the Mantis crew before returning to Cere. "You really are a delusional fool, Cere Junda," her lips twist into a satisfied smirk.

"The only deluded one is you, Lyn," Cere steps closer, her remorseful stare unyielding. "Whatever you've done, there's still a chance for you to—"

"Don't call me that!" the Fourth Sister snaps, her eyes blazing with hatred. She ignites her red blade in one swift motion, her lip twitching with anger as she glares at Cere. "I am no longer your friend!"

"What else should I call you?" Cere scoffs bitterly. "I'll die before I use whatever name the Empire forced on you. This isn't you, Lyn, and you know I'm right."

A bitter laugh escapes the Inquisitor's mouth, dripping with resentment. "Why should I listen to the words of a traitor? You betrayed the Republic, Cere! I bet these poor fools you cling to don't even know the truth about what you really did..."

Cere's jaw tightens, her eyes darkening with every word. The atmosphere grows tense, the silence around them suffocating. But something stirs within her—a sense of anger and shame, begging her to retaliate. She steals a glance at Cal, who stands tense and ready behind her, his connection to the Force sharp as ever. Her gaze returns to the Fourth Sister, who continues to taunt her. The tip of her crimson blade waves in the air, a pair of cold and empty eyes behind it daring her to fight back. The truth is out, whether she likes it or not, and there's no point in hiding anymore—even from Bode, who surprisingly proved himself to be just as valuable as he claimed.

"Cal," she begins to speak, her voice laced with determination and focus, "if you don't mind, I'd like to borrow your weapon, only for a short moment."

His response comes quickly, the lightsaber already resting in her palm before she can even finish her sentence. She can feel his emotions through the Force: the fear and anxiety of being caught by the Empire, mixed with a little bit of something else. Hope, maybe. She smiles as she brings the weapon in front of her, reminiscent of her glory days.

"Oh, Cere," the Fourth Sister laughs weakly, her own fear masked cleverly by her composed demeanor, "we both know you're past your prime."

"Come closer, and we'll see about that," Cere declares in a calm voice, taking a deep breath, her thumb already activating the lightsaber with a quick motion.

"Tempting, but not exactly what I had in mind for today," the Inquisitor points her lightsaber towards Cere, her eyes shifting to one of the stormtroopers currently circling them. "Get them alive. The Emperor will not tolerate any mistakes from you!"

Cere's eyes narrow, glaring at the Fourth Sister with resentment. "Still a coward... Even after all this time, you still doubt yourself, Lyn."

"I know what I'm capable of, Cere. But today, you'll have my mercy," a subtle smirk rises at the corners of her lips, dropping as soon as she lowers her blade. "Capture them now!"

"Merrin, give us some cover!" Cere shouts, a wave of green smoke already beginning to rise steadily, engulfing the entire crew until they are no longer visible.

Blaster fire pierces the green smoke, bright red bolts streaking in all directions. The crew moves swiftly, using the cover of Merrin's magick to evade the stormtroopers' aim. Bode aims though the smoke, his shots sporadic but accurate, some finding their mark through the chaos. Cal remains still for a moment, his connection to the Force sharper than ever. He stretches out his senses, feeling the currents of energy in the air. The stormtroopers' fear and confusion ripple through the wind, making them easy to track. A faint smile tugs at the corner of his lips as he ducks a stray bolt and uses a strong Force push to knock a trooper unconscious.

"Stay close to me, Cal!" Merrin's voice cuts through the chaos. Her hands weave intricate patterns in the air, summoning tendrils of green energy that lash out, disarming and scattering the enemy.

"I'm fine," Cal responds, his tone calm but focused, stepping to the side as he pushes another one off the edge and into the vast clouds below them. "Keep them off Bode!"

"Understood!" Merrin nods, her magick surging to create a barrier of strong green energy, buying Bode enough time to reload and get to cover.

Jumping from the smoke, Cere's crashes the lightsaber down, with the Fourth Sister barely parrying her strike in time. Their weapons clash with a blinding flash of red and blue, the hum and crackle of plasma echoing through the smoke-filled air. Cere moves with precision, cutting left and right, setting into old habits as if she had never buried her own lightsaber on Bogano when disaster struck and her school burned to the ground.

"You can still walk away, Lyn," Cere says, her voice steady as she deflects a downward strike. "In honor of the friendship we once had."

The Inquisitor's expression tightens, her movements growing more aggressive. She spins her crimson blade in a series of strikes, each one meant to overwhelm. "You're still clinging to the past, Cere. You've already lost."

Another quick series of strikes comes from the Fourth Sister, their battle resembling a dance of masters at work. Cere steps to the side to deliver a discreet blow, grazing Lyn's calf with the tip of her lightsaber. Lyn growls, thrusting her lightsaber forward furiously. Cere parries it with ease, their blades locking momentarily. Cal's connection to the Force guides him through Merrin's cover, allowing him to disarm stormtroopers with fluid precision, while  Merrin keeps the enemy disoriented, and Bode's sharpshooting ensures no trooper gets too close.

The Fourth Sister breaks the saber lock with a sudden kick to Cere's side, forcing her back. "You can't win, Cere," she sneers, raising her blade for another attack. "You never could."

Cere straightens, her grip on the lightsaber tightening. "Winning doesn't matter, Lyn. But stopping you does."

"Always the martyr," Lyn growls with hatred. "Let's see how you fare against the Emperor once I take you in!" she pushes Cere to the ground with a powerful shockwave and raises her lightsaber above her head, prepared to strike her down. Her hands remain frozen in the air alongside her entire body, her eyes frantically searching left and right. Cal stands behind Cere, his hand outstretched, manipulating the Force to keep the Inquisitor locked in place. Cere turns to face him, watching his expression shift, his brow furrowing as he struggles to keep the incredibly powerful Inquisitor subdued.

"Get to the ship, Cal," Cere declares in a defeated voice, standing and looking at him with worry. "I'll stay behind to draw their attention."

"We're not leaving without you, in case you haven't noticed," Cal replies with a faint smile, his focus strong as he keeps the Fourth Sister immobilized. "Right, BD?" he nods toward the droid. BD-1 chirps softly from Cal's back, his tone both encouraging and insistent.

Cere smiles weakly, looking at Cal with a hint of admiration. He is strong with the Force—that much is obvious—but it's his will to live that strikes her most deeply. In this moment, she finally understands why he's here. It seems the universe's plan all along was for them to meet, no matter the circumstances. Cere suddenly feels humbled by the weight of her own guilt—a guilt that has haunted her ever since—no. Not anymore, she realizes. Before she can fully grasp this revelation, a force wave erupts with incredible power, toppling their surroundings and sending everyone, including Cere, crashing to the ground. In her dazed state, she spots a cloaked figure—Master Jaro Tapal—standing tall behind the Fourth Sister, his presence towering over her with visible defiance.

"Run!" he declares with authority, his voice echoing through the area. "I'll handle her!"

The Fourth Sister glares wildly at him, a snarl etched on her face as she breaks free from Cal's hold. Her attention shifts entirely to the older Jedi Master, her rage untamed. The chaos around them intensifies as Jaro Tapal steps forward, a towering presence against the Fourth Sister petite figure. She hold the corrupted lightsaber in front of her, as if it was meant to protect rather than attack, her expression displaying her rage while her eyes betray her actual fear.

"Move!" Cere orders, her voice cutting through the silence. She pulls Cal to his feet, her grip firm but filled with urgency. Merrin waves her hands, green energy swirling in the air, creating another cloud of smoke to obscure their escape.

"Greez!" Cere calls into his commlink, his voice strained. "We need the ship closer, now!"

"Already on it, kid!" Greez's voice crackles over the comm. The hum of the Mantis's engines grows louder, the ship maneuvering carefully through the narrow pathways above.

Merrin glances back, her brow furrowed with concern. "He will not hold her off for long," she says, her voice low but urgent. "We must help him!"

Cere spares a glance at the battle behind them. Jaro Tapal moves with a precision and strength that feels like a memory brought to life, his use of the Force a blur of motions as he holds back the Fourth Sister's ferocious assault. The Inquisitor's attacks are relentless, her crimson blade flashing in wide attacks, but Jaro keeps his ground, defecting each one with incredible ease.

"He knows what he's doing," Cere replies, though her voice wavers with doubt. "Let's go."

As they run, stormtroopers follow them, blasters firing blindly into the green smoke. Cal takes the lead, using the Force to sense their movements and disarm them. Merrin stays close, her magick lashing out to throw troopers off balance or ensnare them in twisting tendrils of green energy. BD-1 chirps a warning as another squad of troopers appears from the side. Bode, covering the rear, takes aim and fires a precise series of shots, each one finding its mark.

"Keep moving!" Bode shouts.

The Mantis hovers just ahead, its boarding ramp lowering as Greez pilots it closer to the ground. "I've got her as close as I can get!" he shouts through the comm. "Hurry up!"

The ramp opens up, allowing the crew to dash inside quickly. Cere pauses from the ramp, turning one last time to look at Jaro Tapal. The Jedi Master is still holding his ground, his presence unwavering despite the Fourth Sister's ferocity. He turns his head slightly, meeting her gaze for a fleeting moment.

"Go," he mouths, his expression firm.

Merrin grabs Cere's arm, pulling her up the ramp and inside the ship. The ramp closes behind them and Greez pushes the Mantis to full throttle, the ship rising and speeding away from the fight. Inside, the crew collapses onto the floor or into seats, catching their breath.

Cal leans back against the wall, his expression distant. "Do you think...?" he begins, but his voice trails off.

Cere shakes her head, unable to meet his eyes. "We don't know," she says quietly. "But he gave us a chance. We can't waste it."

Merrin sits silently, her hands trembling slightly as the adrenaline fades. BD-1 hops down from Cal's shoulder, chirping softly, as if trying to offer comfort.

From the cockpit, Greez's voice cuts through the heavy silence. "Where to?"

Cere looks out the window, her expression mournful. "Somewhere safe. For now."

Chapter Text

Grief is an old friend of his, and yet, Cal can't help but feel incredibly mournful and disappointed by this turn of events. Jaro Tapal saved his life all those years ago, and now, when the time came for him to return the favor, he didn't. And now Jaro is most likely dead, killed by a ruthless Inquisitor who will not stop until she finds them again.

"That makes two of them already," Cal remarks bitterly, wondering if things could possibly get any worse. A small voice at the back of his mind reassures him that yes, things can absolutely get so much worse—and incredibly fast.

His fingers grip the lightsaber tightly as he sits on the bed inside the engine room, lost in thought for what he can only assume is a few good hours of contemplation. Merrin left him alone with his thoughts without even asking, the young witch already sensing that he needed some time by himself. Cal feels grateful for her keen understanding, realizing this was exactly what he needed: a moment of quiet to think about everything that has happened and everything that will eventually unfold.

Kael'Thora is still out of reach, with both Cere and Greez agreeing it was better to keep a low profile for a few days in case the Empire followed their trail from Bespin. Another beautiful and peaceful city destroyed, Cal sighs, lamenting the galaxy's fate. Everywhere the Empire arrives, destruction follows quickly, and this time they were fully responsible for it.

How far we've come, he thinks with remorse, remembering the day he was brought to Dathomir as a prisoner. Those days are far behind him, but one thought refuses to leave the back of his mind: maybe it wasn't the Empire that destroyed everything, but his sheer presence alone. First, it was Soris, then Jedha, followed quickly by Dathomir and now...Bespin. It can't be a simple coincidence.

Cal sighs painfully, tightening his grip on the lightsaber while a pained grimace flashes across his face. There is a storm brewing deep within him, the clouds gathering in his mind, blaming himself for everything that's happened ever since he was born. The Force gave him a gift and blessed him with Force-sensitivity, but it also cursed him with incredible bad luck. And now, he isn't just hurting himself but the people around him—the people he cares about and the ones he loves.

Bode's words hang in the air, infecting him with a sense of despair until he eventually agrees with them. If the Empire doesn't hold back from making everyone suffer, why should he? Why should he cling to a moral code when everyone around him breaks it as they see fit, only to thrive instead of suffer as he does? It doesn't seem fair, but then again, what is when it comes to him?

"Nothing," Cal mutters, surprising even himself with the blunt thought.

A silent tear traces the left side of his face, traveling slowly until it nestles under his chin. His emotions run wild, and another tear breaks free, followed by another, until his entire face is smothered by them. There is a gentle relief settling in his body as he cries silently, suffering alone and away from curious eyes.

Cal despises feeling vulnerable, with his blindness already making much of the galaxy pity him. He also hates when people whisper around him, as if he doesn't have acutely sharp hearing. Even now, sitting inside the engine room, he can hear the whispers of Cere and Bode, conversing about his fragile state of mind.

He reassures himself that he's fine, that he doesn't need their worry, but deep down, he understands why they act like this. Even Merrin, who masks her concerns exceptionally well, sometimes projects her true feelings through the Force.

Greez, on the other hand, is unusually quiet, maneuvering the ship from his seat. Cal wagers he's probably got his own demons to battle, his own struggles, and that's why he's always so cheerful and optimistic, because if he isn't, then what else is there left but...despair.

And that's something Cal dreads even thinking about. As soon as despair takes over, he knows it's incredibly hard to leave it behind. So he feels grateful for Greez, already sensing his presence through the Force as he nears the engine room, and Cal wonders if he sensed his thoughts or if he just wants to talk.

Nevertheless, he invites Greez to join him, to have a seat next to him. The Latero releases a short sigh, planting himself next to him. "You know, it's really creepy that you knew I was standing there."

"Sorry," Cal says with a small laugh, discreetly wiping the tiny tear forming in the corner of his left eye, hoping Greez didn't notice.

"It's fine, kid, don't fret," Greez reassures him, trying to ease his mind. "Are you doin' okay?"

There is a small pause, followed by a frustrated sigh. He's pretty sure Greez's eyes are fixed on him, waiting for his response, and Cal wishes he had an appropriate one.

"Not really..." he eventually responds with sincerity, pressing his lips into a thin line, his head lowering in disappointment.

"Okay," Greez says in a gentle tone, "Let's hear it out, kid!" he grows closer, placing a soft hand on his shoulder. Cal smiles weakly at his sudden gesture of kindness, genuinely considering pouring his heart out and venting until he's all spent.

"Every time we do something right, something bad happens right after. It's not fair, what happened to Jaro Tapal...we left him behind," his right thumb traces over the lightsaber, Jaro's gift towards him. Immense guilt and shame wash over him, wondering if it's too late to go back, if Jaro might still be alive...maybe he was taken as a prisoner and there is still hope to save him.

"Look, Cal, you can't blame yourself for everything," the Latero leans closer, his tone incredibly calm. "These things happen, and from what I get, you friend wanted to make sure we all got a chance to escape. I mean, that's exactly the type of friend I'd like to be. Someone who can help, in any way."

"But he's probably dead because of us. Because of me," Cal stops, tightening the grip on Jaro's—no, his lightsaber. Jaro gave it specifically to him, and now—

"You don't know about that, kid. I may know a thing or two about Lasat's, and trust me, they're tough bastards to kill…" Greez tries to lighten the mood, his hand now squeezing Cal's shoulder in comfort. "For all we know, he's probably escaped and is on his way to another rebel base."

"I get why you're upset," he continues, "and I know you're hurting right now, but at least try to think of the bright side. Now we know where to go and what to do next," a tender smile flashes on his lips.

Cal nods silently, contemplating Greez's words. "Yeah...I guess you're right. Kael'Thora might be our only chance at finding something worth all this."

"Exactly, kid!" Greez releases a tense and quick laugh. "Now I don't know anything about lost Jedi worlds, but if it meant so much to your friend, then... it must be something really important, right?"

"Thanks, Greez," Cal smiles sheepishly. "You're a good friend. I mean it."

"Aww, Cal," the Latero grumbles playfully, "You're not so bad yourself. You just need to believe in yourself a bit more. I know things can get rough, and trust me... I've seen things that might surprise you," he takes a deep breath. "But we can't give up. Not when we're so close."

"I know," Cal gets up, still clinging to his new lightsaber, "it's now or never, Greez."

"See?" Greez jumps to his feet with enthusiasm. "All you needed was a good pep talk, and you're as good as new! Now come on, I've been dying to get you to taste my new recipe—I got it from my nana Pyloon, and with your heightened senses, I might just perfect it!"

"I never say no to good food," Cal replies more lively, suddenly feeling much better about himself.

He follows Greez into the kitchen, the smell of spices reaching his nostrils, making his stomach growl softly. It's been quite some time since he's had a decent meal, with everything that happened so far making him lose his appetite. But his food is indeed delicious, and Cal joins him, almost too excited to try out his new recipe.

Merrin's eyes are fixed on the man in front of her, watching his every more with deathly precision. Ever since they landed on Pagu, she followed his every move, suspicion and doubt still lingering inside her after their botched mission. Bode is a reserved man when he wants to be, sitting quietly on the other side of the field and cleaning his blaster, watching Cal and Cere practice from time to time. When Cere suggested that she should teach Cal some basic lightsaber techniques, he agreed without protest, and now here they are, in the middle of an abandoned field for what seems like hours.

"It's so heavy," Cal struggles to lift the active lightsaber above his head, his hands shaking with strain.

"That's because you're both fighting for control," Cere explains from the side, pacing left and right slowly. "As soon as you stop trying to dominate it, you'll feel it much lighter in your hands."

Cal nods, lowering his hands slowly, careful not to injure himself. Merrin takes note of how prudent he is with the weapon, the heat emanating from the hilt no doubt warning him if it's too close for his comfort.

"Try to swing once from the side. It's important to keep a good balance between you and your weapon," Cere continues, helping Cal into a better stance. Her hand guides his until the saber sits angled, giving Cal a more comfortable position.

"Okay," he replies nervously, "I think I got it..." he adds with another hint of doubt in his voice.

"Don't think too much; it'll throw off your balance completely," Cere walks in front of him. "Here. Try to hit me."

"What??" Cal stops suddenly, a puzzled look etched on his face. Even Merrin shifts in her place, looking at her with a hint of concern.

"You heard me," Cere says again, this time louder, a sense of amusement in her voice. "I'm not going anywhere until you swing that lightsaber."

"Now, this'll be interesting," Bode smirks from his place, now fully invested in their practice. He leans closer to observe better, elbows on his knees as he watches attentively, his blaster abandoned to the side.

"I don't want to hurt you, Cere," Cal speaks, worried and anxious. He gives the lightsaber in his hands a small wave, the vibrations of the weapon resounding in the air around them.

"You won't," Cere replies before he can add anything else. "I trust you, Cal. And I trust the way you shape and navigate the Force around you."

"But—"

Cere stops him before he can doubt himself even more, assuring him that even if he tries, he can't hurt her. Merrin observes her firm and calm expression, realizing just how much truth is behind her words. Cal has no experience with a lightsaber, while Cere is a Jedi Master, a hardened warrior who faced many foes in battle.

"That weapon only gets heavier the more you hesitate, Cal," she says softly, her tone incredibly gentle. She's truly a master in her own right, and Merrin ponders how exactly the galaxy would have thrived if she had been allowed to teach her students the ways of the Force.

An interesting lesson to be learned, Merrin also thinks, finding herself more drawn to this lighter side of the Force and its perks. When Cal taught her how to manipulate it like him, it felt so different, and she wonders what else she can learn from both.

"Think back to the night we wed, Cal. I am certain you remember you victory well," Merrin shouts encouragingly from the side, the declaration making him freeze completely in response. His shoulders are stiff, while his face is deathly pale, a deafening silence surrounding them all.

"I bet you didn't hesitate back then, huh?" Bode snickers from his seat, followed by another cheeky laugh.

"I didn't! It's not—" Cal stutters trying to find his words, completely overwhelmed while his face goes from deathly pale to a bright shade of red. He turns to face Bode, waving his hands in the air desperately. "It's not what you think it means, okay?"

"Cal waged into battle with one of the fiercest warriors from our clan and emerged victorious," Merrin clarifies with a smug smile, eyeing Bode from her side, crossing her arms in front of her.

Bode raises his eyebrow, giving Cal another strange look. "Is that so, tough guy? I didn't think you had it in you... I have to say I'm actually impressed."

"You should be," Merrin interjects in a proud tone. "Cal has defeated Kylen with only the use of the Force, without any weapons. He is far stronger than you give him credit for."

Cere clears her throat, drawing everyone's attention back to her. "If you all don't mind, we are in the middle of something..." she raises her eyebrows, glaring with an amused face at Bode, causing the man to raise his arms defensively in front of him.

"Yeah, okay, sorry... I'll be quiet from now on. I promise."

"Good," Cere answer shortly, "Now, Cal, back to your training..… is it true you fought a great warrior and won?" her tone is curious and gentle.

"Uhh, something like that," Cal faces her again, holding the lightsaber at an angle just like she instructed. "I didn't even do much; all I did was push him with the Force to the other side of the arena. The fall did most of the damage."

"And yet you did not think about it. You acted out of instinct alone and relied on the Force as your ally."

"I guess that's exactly what I did," Cal lowers the weapon, now deep in thought. He didn't get the chance to think about it that much, but now that Cere pointed it out, it makes him realize how lucky he was and maybe... how powerful he might be.

With the aid of the Force, Cere quickly summons a nearby stick. She charges ahead, swinging it through the air, near Cal's shoulder. It whooshes in the air, the sound alerting him as he brings his lightsaber to his left, cutting it into two perfect halves.

"Perfect!" Cere exclaims with a wide grin, repeating her motion with the shorter end of the stick, grazing Cal's right calf, the gesture making him jump back and bringing his lightsaber to defend himself. "Again!"

Cal begins to swing the lightsaber slowly in front of him, tracing every path of Cere's location, the movement becoming steadier with each swing. If Merrin didn't know better, she could have sworn he was born to do this, the image of him practicing with that weapon both terrifying and somewhat arousing to her.

Sure, the monster who killed her entire clan wielded such a weapon, cutting everything in her path, and at that time it frightened her. But seeing Cal wield it felt different in the best possible way, and Merrin's face begins to burn, the thought activating something primordial inside her.

So she quickly averts her gaze, pretending to practice her magick, desperately avoiding Bode's burning stare from across her. She knows he's grinning from ear to ear, probably pleased seeing her reaction, and she chants a little spell under her breath, the barrel he's currently sitting on lighting ablaze.

"Son of a gundark!" Bode jumps as soon as he feels the scorching heat under his bum. He begins patting himself, in case his outfit catches the flames, and gives Merrin a stern glare.

Her lips shape into a devious smile, but before she can react and reply to Bode's accusing stare, BD-1's chirps and fast-approaching steps divert her attention. The droid stops as soon as he reaches the crew, jumping up and down in excitement, whirring a series of very important beeps.

"Really??" Cal drops his guard, now fully turned to face BD. "Nice job, buddy!I knew you could do it!"

"What did he say?" Merrin is now near Cal, eyeing BD-1 curiously. Despite slowly beginning to understand his manner of speech, she still has trouble understanding some of the more complicated words, but she comprehends it's something very important.

"He found Kael'Thora's exact location!" Cal exclaims with joy. "Merrin, we can finally return to Dathomir!"

"Well, I'll be..." Bode mutters quietly, looking at the droid with a strange interest. "This day just keeps getting better and better. Nice job, little one."

Merrin exhales loudly, a sentiment of relief and anticipation washing over her instantly. She had began losing hope to ever see her home world again, but now...now that spark of hope is reignited again, and soon, she will set foot on familiar soil once more.

Cal's arms wrap tightly around her, enveloping her into a warm hug. She doesn't want to cry, and she successfully keeps the reins of her own emotions as she returns the hug, wondering how long it will take until they are safely back on Dathomir. It seems this detour was finally worth it, not realizing sooner just how homesick she actually is.

"You are adorable when you snore," Merrin says in an amused voice, her left fingers resting quietly on Cal's bare chest, playing with his red chest hair. A light and weary scoff comes from him, his eyes half-lidded while a cheeky grin form on his lips.

"I don't snore that bad, do I?" he asks, cupping her hand with his own, the gesture delicate and soft.

Merrin shakes her head. "You are not loud, husband. Consistent, but that is only when you are not talking in your sleep."

Cal sighs longingly, pulling Merrin's body closer to him under the covers, making her chuckle. Both lay naked under the warm blanket, having spent a rather intimate and long session of lovemaking. The door to the engine room is tight shut, and Cal hopes whatever exciting sounds came from them were stifled by its thickness, dreading to think of the rest of the crew bearing witness to their more... adventurous nights.

And it was indeed adventurous, because while the ship traveled through hyperspace, he also traveled to more foreign regions on Merrin's body, exploring every inch and every curve until he found her most delicate spots, leaving her shuddering in pleasure.

Making love to Merrin was still the highlight of his entire life, only followed by the realization that she is indeed his wife, the light of his life, and the only one for him. Cal knows it's a cliche and he's heard about it from many audio-books, but for once, he allows himself to believe something incredibly good has come his way and he'll never let go of it—of her, as a matter of fact.

"I love you, Merrin," he says abruptly, the declaration making her emotions shift through the force, lighting up instantly.

"And I love you, Cal Kestis," she replies, no doubt confused by his sudden declaration, because surely enough, she raises her concerns as she shifts in her place anxiously, raising to meet his face. "Is something wrong?"

"No...not at all," he reassures her with a gentle smile, "I just felt like saying it, that's all."

Merrin hums under her breath, returning to her spot, snuggled under his arm, safe. She pulls him closer, the warmth of her body sending shivers of comfort all over his body, a sweet feeling of relaxation settling in his muscles. They remain like this for a moment, in complete stillness, enjoying each other's presence. Another minute passes, and Merrin begins to clear her throat, with Cal sensing the shift in her emotions, a strange anxiety lingering between the two of them.

"I believe I am with child," she declares in the silent room, making Cal jump upright, his hair a mess, his lips parted, and his eyes frantic.

"W-what?" he straightens his back and tilts his head, unsure if he heard right, leaning closer. "Merrin?"

"I have been having strange symptoms for these past few days, and... I am now certain why," her voice is small, a hint of both excitement and hesitation peeking from under.

Cal's expression shifts from confusion to understanding until it settles into pure joy. He finds her presence near him, cupping her face with both hands, their lips uniting into a passionate kiss in a second. A small tear traces his left eye, nestling under his chin as he continues to place small and tender kisses on her lips.

Merrin takes note of his reaction, softly wiping the tear with her thumb. Cal stops, pressing his forehead gently on hers, the gesture drawing a longing sigh from her.

"I might just be the happiest man in the galaxy right now," his voice wavers with emotion, and he inhales quickly, refusing to let go of her.

Merrin responds with a tearful laugh, pulling him into an impossibly tight hug. Cal's entire body trembles softly, still digesting Merrin's unexpected words. If the possibility of her being pregnant was once a distant dream, it now stands as a beautiful reality, one that he wants to relish in for as long as he can. With their inevitable return to Dathomir inching closer by the second, Cal now feels even more determined than ever to succeed in his mission. He has to, because he wants to give Merrin and their unborn child the future that they deserve, away from struggles and conflict. This must end right now, Cal ponders, head in the clouds, heart soaring with joy.

Chapter Text

The Abyssal Reach stands in front of them while the Mantis jumps from hyperspace and into deeply uncharted territory. The journey was long, but with Jaro Tapal's help and his exact coordinates, the crew managed to glide towards their destination realitively safe. It's a barren corner of the galaxy, the blue and green nebula surrounding the vast reach deeply contrasting with the endless emptiness around them. There is an enormous gas giant hovering in front of them and a smaller moon orbiting it at a safe distance.

"That's gotta be it..." Greez mumbles, hands tightly gripping the steer while BD-1 chirps near the scanner, indicating the massive amount of hydrogen surrounding the entire nebula.

It took quite a while and after a few unplanned detours, gathering unexpected friends along the way, in the end they found it—Kael'Thora in all its tiny glory, the moon impossibly small compared to the massive celestial object hovering near it. Greez signals for the rest of the crew to join him, his eyes still mesmerized by the unusual but beautiful scenery in front of him.

As soon as the entire crew gathers, they circle the holomap, watching the scan BD-1 uploaded. The holographic image of the moon hovers in front of them ominously, as if it were forbidden to even glance at it.

"This is Kael'Thora?" Bode breaks the silence with a confused grimace, leaning to the side to make sure he sees it all. "I thought I'd be...bigger."

"Jaro Tapal said it's a moon. This fits the description perfectly," Cere interjects as she steps closer, typing the set of coordinates into the console, a small red dot now appearing on the north side of the moon, right at its center.

"It is perfectly aligned," Merrin says, turning to describe the image to Cal, careful not to miss any detail.

"Okay, we've made it this far...Cere?" Cal turns to face her, head tilted to the side, anxiously waiting for her words.

"I say we all go together. If something's waiting for us out there, then we need all the help we can get."

"You can count me outta this one, Cere!" Greez raises his hands defensively, shaking his head in disapproval.

"I wasn't going to ask you to come, Greez," Cere replies amused. "We still need our captain to fly us out of here fast in case trouble finds us."

"Well, yeah...that I can do," Greez answers with a chuckle, giving Cere a warm smile. She returns the gesture, drawing a small, nervous breath as her eyes set on the holomap again, deep in thought.

Cal senses her doubts, stepping closer to her with an encouraging look on his face. "We got this, Cere. We have to hold the line," he smiles kindly, the gesture filling her with a tiny bit of hope.

"I know," she lowers her gaze, "but sometimes...I wish we didn't have to."

Cal remains silent, contemplating her words while she gives his shoulder a quiet and reassuring squeeze, leaving his side before he can reply. Cere's words hang in the air, and Cal speculates she's probably tired, weary of all this conflict and imperial threat consuming everything in its path.

But with the prospect of finding something powerful enough to challenge it, Cal's mind begins to ease. He has Merrin, Greez, Cere, and even Bode on his side, for once in his life not venturing alone into the unknown. Even BD-1 returns to his back, whirring softly into his ear, the droid growing closer to him each day. The path ahead is set, and now all they have to do is walk it.

Kael'Thora is cold and lonely, the desert moon resembling more familiar ground as the crew advances through the freezing sand. Like Jedha, the desert stretches out forever, but here, there are few rock formations to temper the fast-approaching winds.

Cal hates it here. If Jedha was a cold desert, this one is ten times worse, the sound of the sand brushing past his ears making him incredibly dizzy. There is also a strange sensation lingering in the air, a peculiar staleness as if no one has set foot on this depressing world for millennia. Merrin and Cere scout ahead, walking at a steady pace while Bode falls behind, the sound of his strong footsteps making Cal's ears perk, and he turns in his direction, giving him an acknowledging nod.

"Are you okay, Cal?" Bode asks, concerned, though by the sound of his voice, Cal swears he heard a hint of indifference peeking from within.

"Maybe it's just me, but...this moon, it's messing with my other senses," Cal walks closer to him, barely sensing Bode's presence through the Force.

"It's not just you. Trust me when I say this place is really weird, and that's saying a lot," Bode declares in his casual tone. "So far though, nothing on the horizon but boring dust and sand."

"I figured it's gonna take us a while to reach the center, but at least we're here," Cal sighs, "no turning back now."

"Look, Cal," Bode's voice trails off, "whatever we find in there—" he stops, a small sigh under his breath indicating he's hesitating to continue.

"We'll deal with it, whatever it is," Cal remains optimistic, despite the now-present hint of doubt slowly building inside his mind.

"I know; I just don't want you to get your hopes up too much, that's all," Bode says in a reserved voice. "I heard the Jedi can be a bit cryptic with their stuff and maybe there's a good reason why this place is so hard to find."

"Let's just hope we got here first," Cal straightens his back, taking a deep breath and exhaling loudly, the sand beneath his feet feeling coarse and rough, completely different from the one on Jedha.

"Trust me, Cal, this place is...completely empty!" Bode shouts into the distance, the sound rippling into echoes all around them.

BD-1 chirps loudly from Cal's back, the small droid sending him a stern warning, and Cal can't help but smile a little at their interaction. He reaches behind with his right hand, touching BD-1's visor and petting him softly.

"Easy there, little buddy," Cal says in an amused voice, I don't think there's anyone here to hear us. But he's right," he addresses Bode again. "We need to keep a low profile, even if currently, we're the only ones here."

Bode agrees begrudgingly, remaining silent for the remainder of their journey. Cal's feet begin to hurt as they continue their journey, and he remembers the day he decided to leave the monastery on Jedha to seek out survivors. Nothing but the cold and empty sands greeted him, and now...it feels the same.

This moon is obviously abandoned, but something about it makes him feel incredibly cautious. He doesn't know why, because the Force has always guided him without failure, and he understands that the unknown might be frightening to those too scared to reach out of their comfort zone. But the more he walks, the more he begins to feel strange, his senses going wild. His skin forms tiny goosebumps, the atmosphere dense, and the background eerily quiet. With the help of the Force, he can sense a rise in the terrain, with something significantly larger stretching in their vicinity.

"Cere! Merrin! Over there!" he stops, shouting and pointing to his left, the distance hard to approximate, but he thinks they're fairly close to it. BD-1 helps him, guiding his steps until he faces the right direction and begins to walk again, determined to find it.

There is a freezing chill in the air the more they approach, the structure getting closer and closer. Cal stops, waiting for the rest of the crew to join him, hesitating. Whatever mysteries lie inside, he has to be ready to face them, to show no fear, and above all, keep his friends safe, especially Merrin.

His hand wanders to his hip, the hilt still secured on his belt loop, and his fingers brush gently over it, considering its use. If something sinister lurks inside, he needs to be prepared to face it, recalling Cere's lessons from the other day. He is by no means good with it, but just like she said, the less he resisted, the more he could feel the weapon lighter in his hands, almost like an extension of his own body.

"Careful, husband," Merrin steps to his side. "There could be traps. Do not approach so easily."

Cal gives her a reassuring nod, sensing the unease in her words. No doubt Merrin feels it too, the unnatural way the Force flows inside the structure. "Let's see..."

He kneels down, his fingers palpitating the base of the stone steps, the surface so smooth and clean to the touch that it makes him gasp. Whoever lived here was probably a regular visitor, and he presses his palm down into the stone, eager to sense if there's even a trace of force echo left behind after so many years.

At first he feels nothing; a disappointed sigh emerges from his mouth, the sound of BD-1's scanner in his ear indicating the droid added the area to his database. But as he continues to keep his fingers pressed, something shifts, a flash of blinding white light catapulting him into a vivid environment before he has time to even think properly.

A pristine Jedi temple greets him, the main hall so large and beautiful it manages to take his breath away. The walls are pearly white, with four statues placed perfectly symmetrically on each side, their shadows uniting at the center of the room, engulfing in shadow the painted mural of a golden sun.

Cal's eyes wander from the enormous stained glass windows to the marble floor, wondering if the past is a true representation of how this place looks in the present. Judging by the excellent condition those stairs are in, he feels inclined to believe that yes, this Jedi temple managed to survive the purge and complete destruction, remaining unsoiled by imperial hands.

He begins to wander the ancient halls, the temple indeed larger on the inside, just like Master Tapal said. Whatever spooked his men must still lurk here, but so far, the only thing he sees is an exceptionally beautiful and quiet, ancient Jedi temple.

The echo is faint, with the memory already beginning to slip away, but something about the entire place feels strangely...familiar. As if he's been here before, in a dream, or... a different life.

He pushes the thought aside, the image in front of him slowly disappearing until he find himself back in the present, with the rest of the crew waiting patiently beside him. BD-1 beeps with concern, nudging his hand with his metal talon, eager for a response. Cal smiles weakly as soon as he feels the gentle tap, patting the small droid on the visor playfully. He rises on his feet, turning to face the crew with a more optimistic expression.

"If this place is anything like what I've seen in the past, then we're definitely in the right place. I've never seen anything like it in all my life," Cal declares with a hopeful smile, turning to face what he can only assume is the temple entrance. Something inside calls to him, the hairs on his back standing up as he can sense the force flow deep inside him, more potent than ever.

"So it's not a trap?" Cere steps closer.

"I don't think so," Cal replies, already beginning to walk up the stairs. "Only one way to find out though."

"You were right about him being braver than most," Cal can hear Bode mumble at Merrin. "This place gives me the creeps, but your husband seems to be just fine."

"Many have underestimated him and paid the price for their foolishness," the witch replies quickly, obviously proud as Cal smiles to himself, already at the front entrance.

His fingers trail over the edge of the large stone door, meeting various Jedi runes carved perfectly. There are many proverbs of old Jedi masters forever embedded into the wall, and Cal wonders how many Jedi masters have roamed through this door, no doubt in search of pure enlightenment. He dares to push the door, the stone impossibly light and silent as it swings open. His feet echo through the large chamber, with his crew following closely behind, none daring to even make a sound. The air inside feels clean and breathable compared to the sandy environment outside, and Cal uses the Force to approximate the size of the room, his mouth falling agape upon realizing just how large it is in realty.

"It's incredible..." Cere's voice trails off, amazed by the sight. She dares to move away from the group, probably investigating the runes carved into the walls, Cal realizes as he can hear her mumble under her breath, completely mesmerized.

"This temple is vastly different from what we have on Dathomir," Merrin leans closer to Cal, carefully sweeping her shoulder past his in an adorable effort to catch his attention. Cal smiles softly as he feels her by his side, quietly brushing his fingers past her left hand, the gesture making Merrin stop in her tracks.

"Describe it to me," Cal says in a calm voice, tilting his head until Merrin's melodic voice reaches his ears, sensing the smile already forming on her lips.

"You already know what it looks like."

"I saw the past, Merrin. You are my eyes into the present," he gives her another playful smile, the gesture making Merrin sigh softly.

"This chamber is almost as tall as the Velen'Ai mountain pass that graces the border between the Frenzied River and the Misty Falls clan," Merrin begins, accepting Cal's invitation as she grabs his hand and guides him around the chamber. "It it quite marvelous."

"There are four statues on each side of the chamber, their faces concealed," Merrin continues, "but each one has a similar weapon in their hands, the blade pointing down."

Cal furrows his eyebrow, confused. It seems the room remained unchanged from his vision, save for the identity of these four Jedi forever immortalized in stone. He saw their faces in the echo, clear as day, yet now the statues are different, cloaked as if they have something to hide. He knows a lot about the Jedi, has seen many depictions of their heroic acts through echoes from even as far as the High Republic, the sudden mystery surrounding these four faces making him  reconsider the true nature of this place.

"Wait...you said the statues are cloaked?" Cal asks again, the question making Merrin release an approving hum. "That's strange, I saw their faces in the past..." his voice trails off, suspicion already plaguing his mind. "The Jedi aren't exactly known for their secrecy. I mean, every statue I've seen in the past showed their faces as clear as day. Why would they suddenly have anything to hide?"

"Perhaps it was to show humility and let their actions speak for them," Merrin replies innocently.

A sarcastic laugh escapes Cal's lips, BD-1 chirping softly from behind as he scans one of the statues from head to toe. "Aren't you the one who believed all Jedi were murderers and liars before we met?" he crosses his arms in front of him, amused.

"Much has changed since we met, dear husband," Merrin replies with a hint of playfulness in her voice, "but it is true that I may have misjudged your kindred before. Do you truly believe these were not truly Jedi?"

"Who knows? I've never heard of Jedi hiding their faces before, but this temple is very old, so maybe at that time, it was something normal. I think we should explore more and find out."

"I hate to interrupt you lovebirds again, but Cere's getting impatient," Bode slides behind them.

"Sorry, we'll be on our way," Cal apologizes, his ears burning.

The chamber is empty save for the four statues hovering ominously inside and the mural Cal remembers from the echo. A sun no doubt symbolizes the light side of the Force, and he understands that the current state of the Jedi and their now-extinct Order greatly differs from what they used to be millennia ago. But the doubt still remains as they walk through the empty corridors, wondering what exactly spooked Jaro's men so badly last time when so far, nothing screams danger except for his analytical mind questioning the validity of this place.

There must be at least a hundred separate chambers in this temple, the corridors resembling more of a complicated maze than a harmonic flow. The Force feels so potent inside, with his fingertips prickling while his senses dial up to eleven, his ability to locate his surroundings so strong he can feel every gust of wind and presence as if it were right beside him. But the more they walk, the more he begins to feel lightheaded. Something shifts in the Force, a subtle darkness around the edges of the light making him tense, sensing both Merrin's and Ceres's similar reactions. Before he has time to speak up and voice his concern, Ceres's voice echoes into the tall chamber, seriously confused.

"What the—" her voice cuts off, stifled by a confused and frustrated sound.

"What happened?" Cal walks until he's close to her, sensing her annoyance.

"For starters, we're back at the main chamber..." she ads in a subdued voice," but—"

"How is this even possible?" Merrin cuts her off, deeply frustrated. "We have been walking for hours!"

"I told you this place is creepy. Maybe we should get back to the ship," Bode speaks after what seemed like a good amount of silence from him.

"Maybe the temple is built this way to confuse non-Force users and keep it safe from curious eyes," Cal brings his hand to his face, now also confused. "Are you sure this is the same chamber?"

"The statues are here, Cal, as is the mural," Merrin clarifies, a small sigh emanating from her. She begins to pace around, the sound of her light footsteps echoing on the marble floor.

Cal furrows his eyebrows, thinking about Jaro Tapal's words. Whatever made him decide this place was so important must have been real enough for him to risk his life, so the secret to unraveling the mysteries of this temple must lie somewhere deep in the Force. Trust only in the Force is what he used to say, and so far it seems like the only option they have left.

"I have an idea," Cal declares, walking until he finds himself positioned at the center of the room. "Bode will guard the door while we enter mediation in this circle," he points down to the image of the sun under his feet.

"Mediation? You think the answer lies through the Force?" Cere answers with an intrigued tone. "Interesting."

"I am not certain my magick will be welcomed inside such a place like this," Merrin casts doubt from her side. Cal sighs, understanding Merrin's fear considering the other half of the dark side of the Force she draws from.

"I'm sorry, Cal, but I agree. It's highly likely the temple's defense will mark her different use of the Force as a threat," Cere agrees. "We're already running out of time."

"Okay, so it's just the two of us then," Cal takes a deep breath, nervous and unsure where to even begin. Both their powers combined will surely do something, and even if it doesn't, it's better to try than leave disappointed and empty-handed after everything they went through to get here.

He lowers himself to his knees, sensing Cere's presence as she joins him while BD-1 hops on the ground, carefully placing himself near them. A wave of anxiety travels through Cal's body as he begins to meditate, Ceres's own peaceful thought mingling with his own, the room reduced to utter and complete silence. Only their shallow breath can be heard as they continue to meditate, the Force around them shaping into something peculiar, the air prickling with static electricity. The Force envelops them, combining their powers as they continue to concentrate, searching deep within, hoping to find a solution. Cal senses Cere's determination—her desire to fight but also her regret. For what, he has no idea, but given her history, Cal feels she probably carries enough guilt to last a lifetime.

His own thoughts consume him, desperate to understand whatever this place represents, the shadow of fear looming over him—afraid to lose what he holds most dear. Merrin is carrying his child, the unbelievable manifestation of a union between the light side and the dark side of the Force. A harmonious being conceived through love and attachment, one that will ensure the survival of both their kin. And that is exactly what suddenly makes Cal anxious, remembering Bode's words. Losing Merrin would undeniably be his breaking point—the thing that would certainly drive him over the edge. He has to, needs to do everything in his power to ensure he'll always be able to keep her safe.

The witches of Dathomir rarely need protection, Cal reminds himself, but even their power is useless against hordes of imperial soldiers determined to do one thing only—destroy everything in their path. The thought plagues his mind, nearly breaking his concentration. Cal refocuses on his mission, pushing the dark thoughts aside as he exhales loudly. The silence inside the chamber seems impossible given its size, yet both Merrin and Bode remain eerily quiet, providing the much-needed environment for meditation.

Cere sits in front of him, also deathly silent. It's beginning to feel hopeless as they remain on the ground, meditating for over an hour, frustration bubbling beneath Cal’s surface. Kael'Thora was supposed to be a shining beacon of hope, the last resort in fighting the Empire and finally liberating Dathomir from the hands of their enemies, but the more he thinks about it, the more it feels like a dead end. Hope is the only thing keeping him here, kneeling on the cold marble floor. Hope that they might stand a chance against whatever the Second Sister and Valeria have in mind. But his hope gradually begins to turn into despair, and eventually into subdued anger.

Cere gasps loudly as the ground beneath them begins to tremble violently, disrupting their peaceful session. He feels something shifting beneath them, and before he has time to react, a pair of soft hands grab him from behind and pull him back with incredible speed. A cold, loud gust of wind emerges from under their feet, the sound of a hatch opening familiar to Cal's ears. Cere's presence vanishes instantly.

"Cere!" he cries out, realizing she must have fallen into the opening beneath them. Merrin heaves behind him, catching her breath as she rises to her feet, while Bode's boots echo on the floor as he rapidly approaches.

"I'm okay!" Cere's trembling voice echoes from below, agitated. "There's a staircase down here!"

Cal sighs in relief and sprints forward until he feels the edges of the gap beneath his feet. A large chasm now replaces the sun mural, though he has no idea how deep it goes.

"I’ll be damned!" Bode exclaims with a snicker, surprised. "I can't even see the bottom!"

"It is indeed very deep," Merrin says from Cal's right. "The stairs form an endless spiral into the depths."

BD-1 climbs onto Cal’s shoulder, his scanner curiously cataloging everything in sight. Cal swallows a tight knot in his chest, uncertain whether they should begin their descent. The Jedi are known for their enigmas and hidden passages, but this... this seems unusual, even for them. But his fear will have to wait. The desire to stop the Empire at all costs outweighs his personal feelings. He begins to walk, reaching Cere's side. The secret staircase feels oddly different from the rest of the temple—strangely warmer. The steps beneath him are rough and less refined than those at the main entrance.

He hears Merrin’s flames burning in her palms as she walks beside him, while Bode lingers behind at a steady pace. Cere leads the way, warning them of any missing steps, and he can sense her confusion. This temple is as puzzling as it is remote, and Cal wonders just how long it will take to reach the bottom.

"I think we're getting very close," Cal says, quickening his pace, his hands tracing the stone walls delicately. "The air's getting thicker by the minute."

"Wait, you can smell our location?" Bode calls from behind, his tone confused. "That's quite... something."

"I feel it too," Merrin says in her usual cool tone. "The shift in the Force and the atmospheric pressure indicate we are near the end."

"Well, now you're just showing off," Bode retorts playfully with a scoff. "Doesn't matter anyway. I, for one, am glad we're finally close to the end. My feet are getting tired."

"Don't get too tired just yet," Cere interjects. "I have a feeling there's a lot more to see here than just ancient stairs."

An exhausted sigh escapes Bode as they continue their journey, eventually reaching the bottom. It took a while—7053 steps, to be precise, Cal recounts, but they made it. Now, only a simple yet thick metal door stands between them and whatever lies on the other side. Ancient relics come to his mind, knowing the Jedi dabbled with powerful artifacts to channel and distribute their power more efficiently. It could also be a source of energy, Cal ponders as his fingers trace the metal door, searching for anything that could trigger it to open. Kyber also comes to mind, realizing the crystals are as rare as they are powerful. BD-1 scans the door, searching for anything that might open it, but gives up eventually, beeping disappointedly in Cal's ear.

"Tight shut," Cere says, stepping closer and inspecting the metal with her hands. "There’s got to be a way to open this."

"I think I know a quick way inside," Cal smirks, reaching for the lightsaber on his belt. He raises his right hand, offering it to Cere. She huffs anxiously at his offer, tense and hesitant.

"You're letting me do the honors?" Cere asks, and Cal acknowledges the wariness in her words.

"Don’t hesitate," he replies with a cheeky smile, extending his hand until the hilt is directly in front of her. "It'll only get heavier if you do."

"Wise words..." she scoffs lightheartedly, a more optimistic feeling washing over her as her shaky fingers wrap around the hilt.

Cal retreats to the side, already feeling the strong heat emanating from the crystal as it hums loudly the moment she activates it. A shrieking sound envelops the silence around them, echoing through the tall crevice as Cere begins to cut, careful and steady. The smell of melted metal invades Cal's nostrils, not as unpleasant as the sound of the lightsaber slicing through the door.

The loud clang of a large piece of metal hitting the floor makes Cal jump in his seat, his stomach forming tight knots as Cere finishes the task. She quickly returns the lightsaber to his hands as soon as it's done and takes a deep breath, without a doubt still longing to hold on to it for a moment longer.

"Thank you, Cere," Cal gives her a reassuring nod, his ears picking up nothing but silence from beyond the forcefully opened door.

She doesn’t reply but responds with an approving sound. The way forward is open. Now, all they have to do is dare to go inside. And judging by the strong flow of the Force within, Cal reasons that this is it—the moment they've all been waiting for.

Kael’Thora is truly a mystery wrapped in an enigma, and Merrin wagers that as soon as they go through that gap, it's only going to get worse. The Jedi are a strange bunch, with their philosophies and unusual use of the Force making her head hurt, but something like this seems to be beyond even the wisest Jedi Master's understanding.

She can spot the hesitation in both Cere and Cal's behavior as they dare to approach the entrance, and surely enough, like she predicted, Cal makes the first move. Putting himself in danger is one of the things he seems to do best, Merrin remarks with a hint of concern, despite his consistent proof that, yes, he can handle himself. Cal's entire life has been one constant battle to prove himself, and that is exactly why Merrin doesn’t stop him but keeps a watchful eye from behind as they all enter the secret chamber, the Force around them so potent she can feel it flowing through her veins.

The room is dimly lit, but there are a few torches scattered throughout it, and as soon as Merrin lights her finger with her magick, the torches ignite on their own. She tilts her head, confused by what just happened, the room now lit, revealing its mysterious nature. A thin and long hallway awaits to be explored in front of them, seemingly endless.

"It's enormous... how far down are we even?" Cere declares with amazement, observing the tall chamber with wide eyes, completely mesmerized.

There are no statues inside so far, but given the size of the room, Merrin feels inclined to believe they will discover more as soon as they advance. She feels a cold shiver down her spine, watching Cal's expression shift instantly.

"I don't like this..." Bode's voice echoes through the chamber, cutting through the deadly silence like a knife, keeping his blaster close.

Cal kneels down, reaching for the ground with his fingers as he begins to concentrate. He enters his contemplative state as Merrin watches him focus on the echo, his eyebrows furrowing. Merrin understands that while Cal is in this state, he's completely vulnerable to real-world threats, so she inches closer to him, ready to pull him out in case the need arises. The sound of a gasp makes her shift in her place, watching Cal's expression return to a more normal one. He rises to his feet, searching for her hand until he can feel it, then squeezes her fingers gently.

"I saw a hooded figure walking down that narrow corridor. They had a lightsaber strapped to their belt," Cal catches his breath, the memory proving to be a bit more intense.

Perhaps this is truly a lost Jedi temple, Merrin ponders, the unnatural flow of the Force giving both her and Cal more than they can handle.

"So a Jedi was definitely here," Cere says in a more hopeful tone. "Finally, we're on the right track. I say we move down that corridor until we find what we came here for. No more delays."

"I agree," Merrin declares in a strong voice. "I grow tired of this place already."

"Then it's settled. We move forward," Cere already begins to walk down the narrow path, followed closely by the rest of the crew.

It doesn’t take long until they appear to reach the end, the scenery shifting into a more barren and desolate one the more they advance. The pristine Jedi temple above them seems like an entirely different place compared to the bleak and ruined chamber below, the corridor ending as the crew reaches another massive room.

"What the kriff?" Bode exclaims from behind, being the last one to enter the room. His shoulders tense, glaring around him with wariness.

"This is not what I imagined we would find here," Merrin declares in a surprised voice, raising her eyebrow as she eyes a towering cloaked statue resembling the ones at the top, at the end of the room. In front of it lies a stone altar, covered in dried-up vines and dust. The rest of the chamber is eerily silent, with only a few objects scattered on the floor, completely insignificant to their mission.

"Judging by the sound of your voice... this is another dead end," Cal says while he joins Merrin's side, placing his hand on her shoulder.

"Merrin's right to be wary," Cere joins them, folding her arms over her chest, eyeing the tall statue with suspicion. "I don’t think we're in a Jedi temple anymore."

BD-1 begins to scan the stone idol, the altar, and the rest of the room. Cal sighs, remaining in his place as he begins to think about what to do next. "This can't be all... Master Tapal—"

"—was wrong," Cere cuts him off in a mournful voice, beginning to pace left and right in front of the altar. She lowers herself, trying to find anything that could identify its origin, her hands discarding the dried-up foliage.

"Allow me to help," Merrin steps closer, igniting her finger while she presses it on the vines. The green flames engulf the vines instantly, and she can’t help but notice how receptive this place is to her magick. Cere notices too, bending down until she is facing the front side of the altar, her fingers trailing over the small runes carved into the stone. She continues to stare, her expression souring as soon as she lays her eyes on them, realizing their true nature.

"This is written in Sith language..." her voice trails off ominously, the silence that follows unsettling to the core.

"Sith?" Cal turns to face her, now even more confused than before. He sprints toward her, stopping by her side with a curious stare. "What does it say?"

"I don’t know. I've never learned the language," Cere adds with bitterness.

"Maybe BD-1 can help?" Cal kneels, allowing the small droid to scan the runes, providing a rudimentary translation of the ancient text: All things wither. All things die. The Abyss awaits.

"The Abyss awaits? Look, I told you this place is trouble enough as it is," Bode complains loudly, seriously agitated. "Let’s just get outta here before some... ancient Sith Lord comes back from the dead and kills us. I'll go first," he turns to sprint for the door, only to be stopped by Merrin’s imposing voice.

"Do not attempt to run, Bode. We are not done here."

"Hello... what exactly can you even get from here? This place is obviously a Jedi trap, and your Jedi friends are in serious danger just by being here!"

"I don’t think this is an altar..." Cal jumps to his feet, grabbing everyone's attention. His fingers begin to palpate the edges of the rectangular stone, dust rising as he continues to feel around, much to the confusion of the rest of the crew. "Everyone, give me a hand!" he yells, stopping as soon as he reaches the center, straining hard to push with his hands.

"Cal!" Merrin joins him instantly, worried, giving a helping hand as Cere helps too, with Bode reluctantly adding the final pair of hands. Together, they finally manage to pry the stone lid away, slowly, until it’s halfway open, revealing a dull red glow emanating from within.

Merrin places a firm hand on Cal's chest, dragging him away before he can get too close. Cere also steps back, a shred of fear now etched on her features, while Bode stares inside the once-sealed altar or, more precisely, a tomb—the remnants of an ancient body laid to rest inside. Only fragile bones remain from what can only be assumed was once a powerful being, buried inside a real Sith crypt masquerading as a Jedi temple. Cere raises a hand to her chest, her expression incredibly sour, while Merrin simply stares inside, wondering who this being could have been.

The bones are wrapped ceremoniously in a reddish-brown material, the color faded with the passage of time, while two thick golden bracelets adorn the wrists, reminiscent of her own ceremonial attire. A familiar sound comes from her left, with BD-1 perching on Cal’s shoulder, scanning the remains curiously, unaware of the real danger they pose.

"It’s really bad... isn’t it?" Cal finally breaks the silence, a tremor in his body as Merrin wraps her left arm around him, indicating that he can also feel the immense darkness emanating from the ancient corpse.

"This is worse that we ever thought. There's a body inside, a former Sith Lord no doubt. We need to leave this place as soon as possible," Cere heaves, her hand now trying to dull a sudden headache. "The dark side is still lingering inside... even after centuries. Coming here was a mistake."

"You think?" Bode adds with heavy sarcasm. "It’s not like I warned you several times to leave, noo."

"It’s our duty to try, Bode, even if we fail," Cal replies in a disappointed tone. "And now, Master Tapal’s last dreams and hopes die with this place. Let’s close it up before we leave."

Merrin senses Cal’s immense disappointment as he breaks free from her grasp, determined to seal shut what he once hoped could bring an end to the Empire. She also can’t help but feel led astray, placing her hopes and dreams into something that proved to be far worse than her original enemies.

A painful silence hovers above the entire crew while they climb the stairs back to the surface. Cere's mind is preoccupied, while Bode as usual lingers at the back of the group. Merrin wants to say something to cheer up Cal considering his mournful expression, but in reality, she doesn't even know what to say. Her own disappointment, not only regarding the entire mission but also regarding herself, feels heavy in her body, rendering her unable to speak, only think.

Dathomir will never be free from the Empire's rule unless they fight it head-on. It is a cruel reality, one that she has to accept, now more than ever. Whatever hopes and dreams the Mantis crew had are now rendered null, the only positive outcome from this entire ordeal being that they managed to leave without issue, sealing the tomb's entrance with her magick. A Sith Lord, even dead, can pose real trouble, and Merrin wonders how they will proceed from now on. With no clear purpose in mind, the best they can do is retreat somewhere safe and make plans for the future...somewhere remote and quiet, considering her now delicate state. Merrin always considered herself to be stronger than she looks, but even she can't help the incoming symptoms unknown to her until now, with the morning sickness being the worst. She would rather face Gorgarra in battle blindfolded than sit through another morning, heaving the remains of her dinner into the refresher.

"Nothing makes sense..." Cal speaks in a low voice, the sadness evident in his tone. "Why would Jaro Tapal believe this place was any good?"

"The Force works in mysterious ways, Cal..." Cere walks behind, her expression also incredibly defeated. "Maybe he was misled, tricked into thinking this place was the right thing. All that matters now is we got out safe in time."

Cal's silence all but confirms the turmoil inside him, the struggle to put on a brave face while his heart is undoubtedly broken, both from the death of his dear friend and the true nature of this place.

"Do not fall into despair, Cal," Merrin's right hand finds its way on his shoulder, gently comforting him. "We will figure something out."

The corners of Cal's lips form a weak smile, though Merrin understands there is only sorrow behind it as he keeps quiet, walking with his head down. He inhales shortly after, exhaling loudly as he stops, eyes still fixed to the ground.

"Will you ever forgive me?" he asks suddenly, the question making Merrin furrow her eyebrows in confusion.

"What for?" she steps closer, still unsure if she heard him correctly. There is a small pause where Cal thinks, tilting his head while he pries his gaze from the stairs, his eyes now fixed ahead.

"I promised to help you find a way to fight the Empire, and I failed. Dathomir is lost because of me, and now—"

"Now we will find another way to reclaim it back, husband," Merrin cuts him off, her strong voice echoing around the spiraling staircase, "In our own way. Jedi or Nightsister, we are in this together for the rest of our lives, and I would rather die than choose someone else to fight beside me."

Cal's mouth corners rise gradually, forming a gentle yet incredibly mournful smile. "I admire your optimism, despite everything we've been through."

"I must remain optimistic, Cal, for us. For what lies ahead," she grasps his left hand gently, guiding it towards her abdomen. His smile widens, remembering Merrin's confession before they reached Kael'Thora, his entire mood shifting to a much happier one.

"I still can't believe it's real...it feels like a beautiful dream."

"It does indeed," Merrin smiles softly, urging Cal to step ahead and finish their ascent. Soon they leave this wretched moon and hopefully find another way to return home and prepare for the battle ahead.

Merrin's mind is busy as they walk across the barren and eerily silent environment, trying to think of something good enough, but every thought leads to the definitive solution. She tried to run from it, to hide and bury herself in other quests that only led to disappointment on everyone's end. All roads lead back to the beginning, the place where it all started, and where everything will eventually end. In order for Dathomir to be free, all clans must unite and fight as one.

The thought is as outlandish as a Nightsister marrying a light side user, and yet not impossible, all proven by her thriving marriage to Cal. The clans of Dathomir will have no choice but to listen to her unless they wish for total annihilation. That is if Valeria hasn't reached them already, her absence notable for more than she anticipated. Her adventures with the Mantis crew will have to come to an end if she wants to return home and claim her rightful place as Mother once again.

The future of the Nightsister clan lies in her hands and Merrin is determined to assure Valeria that as long as she's still breathing, the Empire will have no claim over Dathomir.