Disclaimer: I only need a zillion dollars more until I own Star Wars, anyone want to contribute?
A/N Tinuviel Undomiel: To all our fans, we haven't abandoned you. It just took awhile to get this chapter in. My friend IC-Rep may read this story. I have high hopes that she will become a new Jan/Kyle fan. As she said, I'm a Star Wars Virus, everytime I tell anyone about Star Wars, they become obssessed. LOL. Anyhoo, on with the chap. 10 gold stickers to everyone who can find the bit of foreshadow in this GIGANTIC chapter.
A/N Nerwen Aldarion: Hehehe, come on ICRep we JK fans don't bite, well, this chapter did take FOREVER so sorry for taking so long, well guys look out, cause I will be starting my own JK fanfic soon myself, I hope you read it when I post it.
Reviews:
Darkness1: Don't worry, no one can hate Kyle for long. Well, except the Imperials, but who cares about them anyways. I hope you enjoy this chap.
Lunatic Pandora1: You gotta love Jan's wit. About the Alderaan thing, Luke didn't react to it either, so I figured neither of them were intuned enough to feel it.
Sailor Elf: Cute name, and as you see I kept writing.
shanesnest: You are forgiven. You better update The Rise and Fall soon or I will coem at you with lightsabers!
stupid-gizka: I'm so glad you are liking this.
Jedi Lexi: For the plans, I'm sorta going with the book a little. I'm glad you like my fics. Oh, and Dare to Dream will be updated.
LieutenantPage: Yeah another Jan/Kyle fan! GLad you love this.
Chapter 5: Boom
Han was frantically trying to get away from the giant hunk of metal, known as the Death Star. It may have been the most spectacular thing in the Galaxy, yet it scared him to death. Jan was seated behind, staring at the controls.
"This thing may look like junk," She admitted, "but it has got to be one of the fastest ships I have ever seen."
"For once someone compliments it," Han said out loud.
"Can I fly it?"
"Forget it sister," He turned down flatly, "No one flies this thing cept me."
"Well you sure have manners," Jan replied dryly. She got up and went to the Central Hold where Luke was sitting dazed at the table. Leia came and wrapped a blanket around his shoulders, offering what comfort she could.
"I can't believe he's gone," Luke said solemnly.
Jan looked at Kyle for clarification.
"He's taking that old man's death pretty hard," He explained.
She nodded, and looked at Leia who was sitting next to him, "There wasn't anything you could have done."
Han came running in form the cockpit, "Hey," He pointed at Kyle, "Did the Empire teach you to use a Gun Turret?"
"Yeah why?" Kyle asked.
"Fighters are coming are way," Han explained, "We ain't outta this yet." Han looked at Jan, "You said you wanted to fly this thing, now's your chance."
Kyle followed Han and took position in on of Gun ports. He slipped on a headset that was wired to the cockpit, Jan and the Princess could speak to them there.
"You in?" He heard Han ask.
"Yeah, all set," He replied.
"Okay, stay sharp."
Jan strapped herself into the pilot's chair. Chewbacca growled something that she couldn't understand. She took a guess that he was protesting saying this was Han's chair.
"Han told me to fly this rust bucket, alright?" She snapped.
Chewie grumbled to himself, while Leia took the seat behind Jan. The three of them looked out the Cockpit window to see if any fighters were in sight. Jan looked at the radar and saw four TIE fighters soaring in.
"Here they come!" She yelled into the intercom.
The four TIE fighters whipped past the Falcon, firing green lasers at its hull. One of the TIEs maneuvered past Han, who fired at it with his gun.
Kyle did the same when one streaked into view, "They're coming in too fast!"
"Well fire faster," came the response from the cockpit.
"You want to switch places?" He asked threateningly.
"Actually I'm quite happy where I am," Jan replied, "but I would appreciate it if I was not blown to bits!"
Another TIE flew past Kyle's window, he fired but missed again. The TIE made a hit close to the cockpit.
"That was close," Leia commented
"What are you guys doing, sleeping?" Jan asked, "You're supposed to fire at the fighters!"
"Shut your mouth, Ors," Han said through the com.
"You'll pay for that Solo!"
"We've lost lateral controls," Leia said from the computer readout.
"Han, your ship is falling apart!" Jan yelled at him.
"Don't worry, she'll hold together," Han told them.
He looked at the panels surrounding him, "You hear me baby, hold together."
Kyle swiveled his gun around trying to follow the TIE on his scope. It was proving more difficult than he thought to destroy them.
Geeze, why did the Empire have to train them so well? He asked himself.
Han followed a TIE with his guns. The laser fire shot at it so fast, that the TIE had no time to get out of the way. Han let out a victorious laugh when it exploded.
"Finally, you got one," a voice came in from his headset.
"Be happy sister," He snapped back at Jan.
Another TIE came in on Kyle's scope, and he immediately fired at it. It moved across his screen, but he followed fast. In an instance it was nothing more than space dust.
"Yes, I got one," He cheered into the set.
"Great, now don't get cocky," Han shouted back at him.
"He already warned me about that," Jan said from the cockpit.
"Shut up and fly the ship," Han said.
Leia looked over her shoulder at the ports, "There are still two more out there."
"No victories yet guys," Jan said, "Get these last two."
"Whatever you say, doll," Han replied.
"Doll?" Jan repeated, "You better watch out, Solo."
"Han, I think you made her mad," Luke commented into the intercom in the cockpit.
"I'm sure I did," Han replied with a smirk. Another TIE came into focus, and Han resumed firing at it. Kyle was firing at his own TIE, following it with a stream of laser bolts. His effort paid off when the readout screen shoed the TIE bursting into flames.
Han stayed on his TIE. It swooped down and did an arc, coming onto Kyle's screen. He fired at it, but it moved out of his aim. The TIE fired at the freighter hitting its hull with shots. The Millennium Falcon shuddered with each hit, but remained intact.
The TIE flew back onto Han's screen, and he shot at it with all the effort he could muster. It swooped past trying to avoid the fire, but to no avail. It shattered into pieces when the Corellian's lasers scored a direct hit.
"That's it we did it!" Luke shouted in victory from the cockpit.
"We did it," Leia cried hugging him.
"I gotta say it, boys," Jan came in on the intercom, "You did good."
"Is that a compliment coming from you," Han smirked.
"Yeah," Jan said, "but don't expect too many."
"Like we would," Kyle replied.
Han and Kyle appeared in the cockpit a few minuets later. Han immediately ran to the pilot's seat.
"Get out of my chair." He told Jan
"Hey you are the one who told me I could fly this rusty box."
"You want me to send you back to the Death Star?" He threatened.
"And how would you accomplish that," She asked, "without you having to go back yourself?"
"Maybe I'll throw you out the airlock and then you'll float back, what do you think of that?"
"Alright alright," She said. "I just like how fast this piece of scrap goes, if only we could change its appearance."
Han rolled his eyes and began punching coordinates into the navicomputer, "Where to Princess?"
"Just take us to Yavin IV."
"Yavin IV? What's out there?" Luke asked.
Now it was Jan's turn to roll her eyes, "The Princess tells you to go to a planet that nobody would think to go to, what do you think is out there?"
Luke just stared blankly at her.
"Hello? The main Rebel base, what you thought we were taking you on vacation?" Jan trudged out of the cockpit.
Kyle was sitting at one of the black and white checkered tables that were bolted to the floor. He was idly staring into space. She sat down across from him, staring into his face, hoping to see the answers to her questions written on his, she had to admit, rather handsome features.
"Are you for real?" she asked.
"What?"
"Are you really leaving the Empire or are you just pretending to want out in order to find where the base is so that you can get your Imperials buddies to blow us up with that floating ball of death?"
He stared at her for a moment, "You don't trust many people do you?"
"No after seeing my home world blown up, you tend to stop trusting Imperials."
"That's understandable, but do any of my actions look like someone who is going to turn on you?"
"You could just be a good actor.
"That's true, but if I were still loyal to the Empire, would I have shot out the TIE fighters coming after us?"
"I've seen Imps do worse."
"Ok then if I still wanted to be an Imperial would I tell you this? The Empire has got a homing device on this ship. I know this because they only sent out four TIEs'; if they wanted to they could have sent out four hundred. The only thing they want more than your heads is the main Rebel base blown to bits."
"They're following us?" Jan said incredulously.
"That's what I just said."
"Well then we have to tell the princess."
"She already knows."
"What you mean you can read minds now!"
"No, she's smart. She knows the enemy and knows that what they really want is the end of the Rebellion. It is the only explanation of why they would only send out four fighters."
"Is there anyway to avoid this?" Jan asked
Kyle shook his head, "No, but we have a chance if the plans you stole show a weakness."
"How big of a chance is there of that?"
"Pretty slim."
"Great, just great." Jan stood up, "Here I am stuck on this excuse of a ship with an ex Imp that says we are all going to die."
"Things could be worse," was all Kyle said.
"How could they be worse?"
"You could be stuck here on this excuse of a ship with Darth Vader." He grinned, and even she had to smile at that.
"I don't think I'm on his favorite's list do you?"
"After what you called him, I'm expecting that he is as of right now planning your slow and painful death."
"Hey I was right; you are getting a sense of humor," Jan said with a smile. Kyle smiled back as he got up to go visit Han and Luke in the cockpit. Leia came charging in with a scowl on her face.
"That…that imbecile is infuriating!" She threw up he hands in frustration.
"You mean the high and mighty Han Solo?" Jan said.
"Who else would I be referring too?"
"True," Jan said, "What's he done now?"
"He seems to be completely without morals," Leia explained, "All he wants is money."
"Is this supposed to surprise me?" Jan asked, "I mean he's a pirate what'd you expect?"
"I expected him to have a least some sense of chivalry."
"Hey, at least the farm boy's sweet on you," Jan commented, "He's a nice kid."
"Luke is wonderful," Leia agreed, "He wants to join the Rebellion."
"Um…that's good, but do what?"
"He says he's a good pilot."
"Oh, well I'm sure he is," Jan agreed, "most of the bush pilots can be excellent X-Wing fighters."
"And what about Kyle?" Leia asked, "I saw you conversing with him just now."
"Conversing, now that's a word you don't hear everyday."
"Jan, you are avoiding the subject."
"No I'm not, I'm…." Jan tried to think of some excuse, "I just don't know what you want to hear."
"Well can we trust him?"
"Princess, you can answer that one for yourself."
"I know we shouldn't," Leia said, "but from a general opinion, do you believe he will betray us?"
"I…I don't know," Jan said, "No, I don't think he will."
"What makes you believe that?"
"I just don't think he will. He hasn't done anything to suggest he would," Jan said, "In fact he mentioned that the Empire could be tracking us."
Leia nodded, "Yes I suspected that."
"He said you would."
"Yes, I am sure the Empire has taught him to understand people," Leia commented, "Perhaps that is why he finds you so interesting. He can't read you like others."
"That makes me sound like a datapad," Jan said, "And what makes you think he can't understand me?"
"You are the one he speaks to the most," the Princess explained, "and he did speak with you alone in your cell, remember?"
"Yes," Jan replied, "That's when I told him about his father. Geeze, I can't imagine what he must be going through. Having believed a lie and fighting for the men who told him it."
"He trusts you," Leia said.
"That's more than what I bargained for," Jan stated.
"Nevertheless, he can be a great ally, and friend," Leia commented, "as he appears to already be so to you."
Darth Vader strode into the control room with a triumphant gait. He had at last, slayed Obi Wan Kenobi, and his plan to find the Rebel Base was underway. He could see Tarkin glaring out the window at a sea of bright stars. He could sense that the governor was not pleased.
"Are they away?" Tarkin asked.
"They have just made the jump into Hyperspace," Vader answered calmly.
"You're sure that homing beacon is secure aboard their ship?" Tarkin asked, "I'm taking an awful risk, Vader, this had better work."
"My lords," Captain Adol said when he entered the room, "We may know how the Rebels were able to get into the Detention Level, and escape aboard their ship so easily."
"Tell us then, captain," Tarkin beckoned.
"It appears an Imperial Officer has betrayed us, my lord, a Commander Kyle Katarn, assisted them in their escape."
"Surely this is a mistake," Tarkin said with disbelief, "No Imperial would dare betray the Empire."
"There are several witnesses," Adol explained, "I'm afraid there is no mistake."
"Where is this Katarn now," Vader asked.
"It appears that he has left with them, Lord Vader."
"This is dangerous to the Empire, Vader," Tarkin said, "We don't know what he knows. He will most certainly give any information to the Rebellion."
"If he is aboard their ship, "Vader said, "He will meet his end soon enough, along with the Rebellion."
Han stepped out of the cabin with a triumphant grin on his face. The others were in the Central Hold, none of them bearing the same look of victory. He knew that they believed that the Empire was following them, but Han knew his ship, and there was no chance of that happening.
We'll reach Yavin within the hour," Han stated proudly. He shot a smirk at Leia, "Still no sign of your Death Star, Highness."
"That doesn't mean that it is not tracking us," Leia said.
"Whatever your worship, as soon as I get my reward I won't have to worry about that station."
"You don't even care about the lives that will be lost if we can't destroy it?" Leia asked shocked.
"Only one life matters to me," Han said, "mine."
"Well aren't we all getting along just nicely," Jan commented sarcastically.
"Will you ever shut up?" Han asked
"It hasn't worked yet, so no."
"Why even bother to use the droid, just threaten the Emperor with her," Han pointed at Jan, "He'll surrender without a fight."
"She's already done that to Vader," Kyle said.
"Wait a minute," Han replied, "You mean she actually talked trash to Vader? Man I'd pay big money to see that."
"If you had any money," Jan continued for him.
"Watch it sister, your treading on the edge of death," Han said.
"Been there, done that."
"What possessed you to do that?" Luke asked, "I mean insult Darth Vader."
"Well, kid, I just couldn't help myself," Jan said.
"Why does everybody call me kid?" Luke asked, "I'm not much younger than you."
"Really," Jan said, "how old are you?
"Twenty."
Jan raised her eyebrows, "Twenty? You look, and act, a lot younger than that."
Thanks," Luke commented dryly.
"Well I'm twenty myself," Leia said, "So what does that make me?"
"Very mature."
"Well Jan since you are so interested in ages, how old are you?" Kyle asked.
"Are you sure you want to go there?"
"I'll risk it."
"I'm twenty three, satisfied?"
"Yes." Kyle answered with a smile.
"You see," Luke spoke up, "You're not that much older than me."
"Ok then who is next," Jan began, "I choose Kyle."
Kyle chuckled, "Is this some sort of initiation into the Rebellion?"
"I don't know are you going to join?"
"Haven't made up my mind yet, and to answer the first question I am twenty six."
"Wow we got an old timer here," Han said.
"Well then, Captain Solo, what might your age be?" Leia asked
"Uh, no comment." Han said avoiding the question.
"Come on," Jan teased, "What are you fifty, sixty? No two is more like it isn't it?"
"I should shoot you right now."
"Bet you couldn't even hit me."
"Wanna bet?"
"Are you sure you want to go into even MORE debt?"
"You are REALLY starting to get on my last nerve."
"Oh but Han in the garbage chute you said you were starting to like me," She flashed a sugary smile.
"I lied."
A small alarm from the cockpit began to blare, "Looks like we've reached Yavin," Han explained and then made his way to the cockpit.
The small military speeder brought the group on the Millennium Falcon to the central area of the Rebel Base. The base was hidden deep in the bowels of an ancient temple, and hidden so perfectly that even Han was impressed. Commander Willard came rushing up towards the speeder. When Leia saw him she jumped from the speeder and embraced him.
"You're safe," Willard sighed, "When we heard about Alderaan we feared the worst."
"We don't have time for sorrows, commander," Leia said, "The Empire has surely tracked us here; you must use the information in this R2 unit. It's our only hope."
Willard nodded, "I'll have my men on it right away."
He signaled his men to take the droid to an outlet and retrieve the plans. He looked back at Leia's companions and smiled at the second woman.
"Jan, you're alive!"
"You thought an Imperial ambush would get rid of me?" Jan chuckled.
"We thought they had killed you on the Tantive IV."
"Are you kidding? I was taking care of the Princess here, like I was ordered."
Willard gave a laugh, "That's good, Jan, now tell me who are your companions."
"I'm Luke Skywalker," Luke said putting out a hand.
"Luke and Captain Solo assisted in our escape," Leia said, "As did Kyle Katarn."
"Katarn?" Willard asked, "As in…"
"Yes commander."
Willard eyed the man in then Imperial uniform, "I can see that you were trained at an Imperial Academy."
Kyle nodded, "Yes sir."
Jan could see the uncertainty in Willard's gaze, "Kyle willingly came with us, commander. Without his help, the Princess and I would be dead."
The Commander nodded, "You must have risked a lot to get them out of that station alive."
Kyle didn't say anything, not wanting to appear self centered.
Willard nodded again, and then picked up a set of clothes from a crate nearby, "Here," He handed them to Kyle; "People here tend to dislike that uniform."
"Thank you sir," Kyle said giving him a small smile.
"A pleasure to help the son of Morgan Katarn," Willard smiled back. He turned back to the Princess, "We must prepare for the battle, your highness."
"Yes commander," Leia replied, "but I believe our rescuers deserve some manner of reward."
Luke shook his head, "I don't want any money, all I want is to help the Rebellion in any way I can."
"Then welcome aboard son," Willard chuckled.
"I believe Captain Solo wishes to leave as soon as possible," Leia said icily, "I'm sure we can find an adequate sum to pay him."
"Of course," Willard said; then looked at Kyle, "And what do you want?"
Kyle felt every eye on him, particularly a set of blue one framed with wispy brown hair. He wasn't sure what to say. He didn't want any money, but he didn't believe the Rebellion would want someone with his background working for them. He did want to help though, he wasn't a skilled fighter pilot, but he could do something for them.
"Sir, I'm not a pilot, but I do want to offer my assistance to the Alliance."
Kyle could have sworn he had seen Jan smile at his words.
"I'm sure we can use you, Kyle," Willard replied, "We need all hands willing to help us now."
"Then count me in."
"Good, now if you'll excuse me, I need to plan for a battle," Willard said as he left with Leia. Soon the entire base would know that the largest battle station in the Galaxy was soaring their way. If the plans turned up no weakness, then no one would live to see the next day.
In a small chamber in the Rebel Base, Kyle was changing into the combat clothes the commander had entrusted him with. He had been eyed by several Rebels while wearing the uniform, he figured soon he would meet the wrong one and pay for it with a split lip or swollen eye. He was nearly done; just his shirt was absent, when someone knocked on the door.
"Wait a few…" Kyle began, but the door had already opened.
"Hey Ky…." Jan turned around and covered her eyes, "I did not need to see that!"
Kyle looked at his bare chest, and rolled his eyes, "For someone who can bad mouth Vader to his face, you wouldn't think they would be embarrassed."
"Well excuse me," Jan said still looking away, "but seeing you half naked is not on my wish list."
Kyle smirked, she had asked for this, "Oh, so you want to see the whole thing."
She turned around to look at him, her mouth wide open, "Did the Empire give a perverted mind, or have you always had one?"
He grinned, "I thought you called it a sense of humor?"
"Well now it's twisted," Jan said, "And I thought I was the one who joked about your attraction for me?"
"I figured that those jokes meant that really you were attracted to me."
"Oh please," Jan replied.
She continued to stare at his chest, until she looked up and saw the amused grin on his face. She looked at the wall instead, while he slipped on his shirt.
"Now, I'm sure you were dieing to see me again," Kyle said, "but do you have another purpose for disturbing me?"
"I was going to tell you, but I was distracted…" Jan said.
"Distracted, huh?" Kyle smiled.
"I was distracted by your delusional imaginings that all I wanted was to throw my arms around you and lose myself in unbridled passion."
"You said it not me."
Jan shot him a look of pure poison, "I came here to tell you that General Dodonna is calling an assembly, I was wondering if you wanted to attend."
"Did they find anything in the plans?" Kyle asked seriously.
Jan shrugged, "I don't know, I guess that's what they want to talk about."
"Alright then, I'll come," Kyle said.
"Well then follow me," Jan said, "unless I'm going to distract you."
"When the day comes that you are a distraction, I'll be a Jedi Master," Kyle said sarcastically.
Jan shook her head, "You know Luke believes in that Force stuff."
"Really?" Kyle asked as they were leaving.
"Yeah, claims his father was a Jedi, and that he has the Force."
"My father used to tell me stories about the Jedi," Kyle said.
"All I know about them is that they have those cool lightsabers," Jan said, "I also learned that if you aggravate a Sith, he will throw lightning at you from his fingers."
"You seem proud of yourself," Kyle said.
"No not really, in fact it hurt like Hell, but I try not to let it bother me."
"You're not going to have nightmares and come crawling into my bed, are you?" Kyle asked with a grin.
"Just the thought of that would give me nightmares," Jan replied.
"Am I really that bad?" Kyle asked.
Jan looked at him with wide eyes.
"I don't mean in that way," Kyle said putting his hands up in surrender, "I mean do I bother you that much."
"News flash, I don't let anybody get under my skin," Jan said.
"I seem to think I am."
Jan looked up into his brown eyes, "You think wrong." She opened the door, and led him into the assembly room that was filled with Rebel pilots and officers. She couldn't tell him the truth; no he would never let her live it down. Oh he wasn't under her skin, not yet that is. The more he questioned it, the closer he would.
She could never tell him a lot of things. Like the fact she liked swapping insults with him. True it could be annoying, but it also gave her a run for her money. He wasn't bad looking either, not that he was attractive; it was just a statement.
Plus, he has a really nice chest. Wait, did I just say that? Oh Force help me, I just said I like Kyle's chest! Granted it was muscular and nice, no I'm not going to think about this anymore.
The real thing she could never tell him was how close he was getting to her. She wasn't sure if he was getting to her bad side, or worse, she could end up falling for him.
In the Assembly room, a large viewing screen was set before the Rebels. General Dodonna stood on once side of the viewing screen. Leia sat with several members of the High Council, while Luke sat with the pilots. Jan and Kyle stood in the back of the room, next to Willard. Kyle noticed Han standing off to the side leaning against the wall.
"The battle station is heavily shielded and carries a firepower greater than half the star fleet. Its defenses are designed around a direct large-scale assault. A small one-man fighter should be able to penetrate the outer defense," Dodonna droned.
A diagram of the Death Star came on the screen. Kyle looked at Jan to see her reaction. She appeared calm, blinking a little, but showing little emotion, and no fear. It was another reminder of how strong she was.
Gold Leader of the Y-Wings spoke up, "Pardon me for asking, sir, but what good are snub fighters going to be against that?"
"Well, the Empire doesn't consider a small one-man fighter to be any threat, or they'd have a tighter defense. An analysis of the plans provided by Princess Leia has demonstrated a weakness in the battle station."
Jan looked at Kyle and gave him a grin, "Looks like we got our slim chance," She whispered.
Dodonna continued, "The approach will not be easy. You are required to maneuver straight down this trench and skim the surface to this point. The target area is only two meters wide. It's a small thermal exhaust port, right below the main port. The shaft leads directly to the reactor system. A precise hit will start a chain reaction which should destroy the station."
The pilots began to murmur at the thought of doing something like that,
"Only a precise hit will set up a chain reaction. The shaft is ray-shielded, so you'll have to use proton torpedoes."
"That's impossible," Wedge Antilles complained, "even for a computer!"
"It's not impossible," Luke said, "I used to bull's-eye womp rats with my T-16 back home. They're not much bigger than two meters."
Wedge didn't seem to sure, but he didn't say anything else.
"Then man your ships," Dodonna said, "and may the Force be with you."
In the Main Hanger Bay, many space pilots and personnel were running around checking ships, and preparing for the danger that was orbiting towards them. Jan walked through this chaos with a look of disbelief. This was the first time she had ever seen so many Rebels racing to finish their jobs with lightning speed.
Kyle was standing with Princess Leia when he saw Jan enter the Hanger. He frowned when he saw the orange jumpsuit she had on, and the helmet tucked under her arm.
"What are you doing?" He asked.
"I'm trying to make a fashion statement, what's it look like?"
"You're not going up there, are you?"
She smiled, "Red 7 ready for action."
Kyle shook his head, "No."
Jan's smile faded, "What do you mean no?"
"I mean I want you to keep your feet on the ground."
"Since when do I have to listen to your orders?" Jan asked looking him in the eye.
"Since when do you go on suicide missions?"
"I don't," Jan said, "but I have to do this."
"No you don't," Kyle replied, "and I don't want you to."
"Careful, Katarn, you almost sound worried," She smiled lightly.
"I don't want anyone to die," He said, "especially you."
"That's sweet, Kyle, but I can take care of myself."
"Yeah you did a great job of it on the Death Star," He responded dryly.
"I'm still alive," Jan stated.
"I know that," Kyle said, "it's just…it's just…" He tried to find the appropriate words, "you told me the truth. You're the first person in years who hasn't lied to me, I was able to save you on that station, but up there I can't help you."
"You won't have to help me," Jan said, "I'll be alright." On impulse, she placed a hand on his cheek. He blinked in surprise, raising his eyebrows. She dropped her hand, and averted her eyes to the ground.
Leia watched them silently, a smile gracing her lips. She could see the tension between them quite easily. She couldn't help but wonder if this attraction would bloom into something more. The Princess observed the look on Kyle's face as Jan walked away: concern, wonder, frustration and something she couldn't name. Fear? Tenderness? Love?
Luke was disappointed that Han was just taking his reward and leaving the Rebellion to face the Death Star alone. Leia and Dodonna were walking towards him on the way to the control room. Leia left the general to join Luke for a moment.
"What's wrong," She asked.
"Oh, its Han," Luke replied, "I don't know, I really thought he'd change his mind."
Leia nodded, understanding, "He's got to follow his own path. No one must choose it for him."
Luke looked solemnly at the ground, "I only wish Ben were here."
Leia gave a small smile, and lightly kissed his cheek. Then she walked back to Dodonna. Luke headed for his ship, until another pilot came a clamped a hand on his shoulder.
"Luke! I don't believe it! How did you get here…are you going out with us?"
"Biggs!" Luke exclaimed when he saw his old friend from Tatooine, "Of course, I'll be right up there with you. Have I got some stories to tell you..."
Red Leader came walking up to the two young men, "Luke Skywalker?"
"Uh…yes sir?"
"Are you sure you can fly that thing?"
"Sir, Luke is the best bush pilot in the Outer Rim Territories," Biggs answered for him.
Red Leader smiled, and patted Luke on the shoulder, "You'll do alright."
"I've got to get aboard, "Biggs said heading for his small craft, "Listen, you'll tell me all your stories when we get back, all right?"
"I told you I'd make it someday, Biggs," Luke smiled.
"It's going to be like the old times Luke. We're a couple of shooting stars that'll never be stopped!"
Luke heard laughter from behind him, "Shooting stars? How original."
"Jan?" He said, "What are you doing?"
"I'm a pilot, Luke; I'm going up with you."
"You can fly?"
"Yeah, can you?"
"Didn't you hear Biggs?" Luke said, "I'm the best bush pilot."
"I'll have to see it to believe it," Jan said with a smile.
"Be prepared to be amazed," Luke grinned. He headed towards his ship, "I'll see up there."
"Yeah," Jan reached her ship, "Good luck."
The Princess, 3-PO and Kyle stood around the display of Yavin. A red dot represented the Death Star that was coming closer with each minute. A din of chatter filled the room, as the small snub fighters came on screen.
The intercom informed them of the situation, "Stand by alert. Death Star approaching, estimated time to firing range: fifteen minutes.
Kyle breathed a small prayer that Jan and Luke would come out of this alive.
Jan sat snug in her cockpit, flicking a few controls, and following Red Leader to the Death Star.
"All wings report in," came his command.
"Red 10 standing by."
"Red 7 standing by," Jan said.
"Red 3 standing by," Biggs responded.
"Red 6 standing by," an older pilot named Porkins said.
"Red 9 standing by."
"Red 11 standing by."
"Red 5 standing by," Luke said through Jan's head phones.
Eventually all of the Red squadron had reported in, "Lock S-foils in attack position."
The X- wing fighters spread out their four wings into the firing position.
"We're passing into their magnetic field," Biggs said over the head set.
"Hold tight!" Red Leader barked as the squadron passed into the field, "Switch your deflectors on. Double front!"
The small crafts moved into formation as the Death Star filled their scopes.
"Look at the size of that thing!" Wedge exclaimed.
"Cut the chatter, Red 2," Red Leader said.
"It's not so bad," Jan said.
"Ors, what are you doing up here?" Wedge asked.
"Making sure you don't get yourself killed," Jan said smiling.
"This is a battle, not a chat club," Red Leader scolded, "Both of you stop talking."
"Yes sir," Jan replied, biting her lip to keep from laughing.
"Accelerate to attack speed," Red Leader commanded, "This is it boys."
"What about me?" Jan asked.
"You too, Red 7."
As the fighters move closer to the Death Star, the awesome size of the gargantuan Imperial fortress was revealed. Half of the deadly space station is in shadow and this area sparkles with thousands of small lights running in thin lines and occasionally grouped in large clusters.
"Red Leader, this is Gold Leader," the command of the Y-wings said over the head set.
"I copy Gold Leader."
"We're starting for the target shaft now."
"We're in position," Red Leader said, "I'm cutting across the axis and try and draw fire."
Back at the base, Kyle and Leia listened to the battle above, and observed the radar on the computer table. 3-PO looked like he was shivering in his golden hull with fear.
Wedge's voice came through the intercom, "Heavy fire boss, twenty degrees."
"I see it. Stay low," Red leader responded.
Jan saw Luke take a dive towards the monstrous fortress. He fired at the surface with his little cannons, and created a huge fireball.
"Pull up, Luke, pull up!" Biggs called through the headset.
"Pull up!" She cried with him.
Luke didn't have time to pull up, and accelerated into the fire. Jan waited tensely in her cockpit for some sign of her friend. Luke rapidly flew out of the other end of the fireball.
"Luke, are you alright?" Biggs asked frantically.
"I got a little cooked, but I'm okay."
"Kid, you scare me like that again and I'll personally remove your manhood," Jan warned.
"Oh," Biggs grimaced, "ouch."
"I'll be more careful next time, Jan," Luke assured.
Red Leader began to head towards the heavy hail of flak, "Luke, let me know when you're going in."
"I'm on my way now," Luke replied flying after Red Leader.
"Watch yourself!" He warned, "There's a lot of fire coming from the right side of that deflection tower."
"I'm on it," Luke assured him as he flew towards the grey surface of the Death Star.
Luke's small craft fired a shot at the small radar emplacements. The defense tower fired back, but he dodged the shots and flew back towards space.
"Your looking good, kid," Jan admitted, "you were right about being the best bush pilot in the galaxy."
"Thanks, Jan, it's your turn now," Luke said.
"Alright then, let me have a shot at this sucker!" She cheered happily as she directed her fighter towards the Death Star.
Luke smiled as she dipped towards the surface, but his smile faded when he watched her fire head on at the deflector tower.
"Jan, no!"
Her face was set in determination as Jan fired at the tower. Green lasers streaked inches from her ship, but she continued to fire at it. The tower burst into a ball of flame. Jan laughed as she flew over the wreckage.
"Jan, are you crazy!" Luke yelled through the headset, "You nearly got yourself killed!"
"I got rid of the tower didn't I?"
"Yes, but…but."
"A little tongue-tied Luke, or are you just jealous that I got a bigger target than you?" Jan asked smugly.
"Red 7,"Red Leader snarled through the headset.
Uh oh, Jan thought, "Uh, yes sir?"
"If I ever see you pull a stunt like that again, I will have you court-marshaled!"
"Sir, I was only trying to get rid of the tower," Jan objected.
"I thank you for your efforts, Red 7, but I do not approve with suicide stunts like that."
"I understand sir," Jan said, "I won't do that again."
"See that you don't," Red Leader said.
"How could she try something like that?" Kyle fumed in front of the computer.
"She wants that station destroyed, "Leia calmly explained, "She knows what will happen if this plan fails."
"But killing herself isn't going to help!" He said raising his voice a little too loud. Dodonna and other officers turned to look at him.
"Jan is willing to die for what she believes in," Leia stated gently.
"Yeah, I know," Kyle said sounding defeated, "I saw it when Vader was torturing her on the Death Star."
Leia looked surprised by his answers, having not known that he was there at Jan's interrogation.
"General, something just came in on radar," an officer said. One of the control officers and Dodonna came to look at the screen. Their faces fell when they say it.
"Squad leaders, we've picked up a new signal, "the officer said into the headset, "Imperial fighters coming your way."
"My scope's negative, I don't see anything," Luke protested.
"Just because you can't see them, doesn't mean they aren't coming," Jan said.
"Keep up your visual scanning." Red Leader called through on the intercom, "With all this jamming, they'll be on top of you before your scope can pick them up."
"Thanks for the tip, Red Leader," Jan replied.
"Biggs, you picked one up watch it!" Luke called out to his friend.
"I can't see it!" Biggs pleaded, "Where is it!"
"Hang on, Biggs, I'm coming in," Luke said, flying over to his friend.
Biggs flew around frantically, with the TIE trailing behind him. Luke soared in, as Biggs broke away from the TIE.
"I got him!" Luke happily cried when the Imperial fighter was converted into dust particles.
"Pull in, Luke pull in!" Biggs shouted after him.
"Look out Kid!" Jan cried.
Watch your back Luke!" Wedge yelled, "Watch your back! Fighters above you, coming in!"
"I see them!" Luke said staring at the TIE on his radar. A shot from the fighter behind him clipped his right wing, "I'm hit, but not bad. R2 see if you can do with it." More heavy fire cam pouring in, "Hang on back there!"
Jan squirmed in her seat as she could hear Red Leader asking for Luke's position from Red 10.
"There's heavy fire zone on this side." Red 10 said gravely, "Red 5 where a re you?"
"I can't shake him!" Luke yelled.
Jan was triggered Luke's signal, and was on her way to help him when a she saw a TIE soaring below her.
"Wedge, go help Luke, I got a TIE here."
"Right away, Jan." Wedge said heading towards Luke.
Jan targeted the TIE, and noticed that it had moved to the side, but apparently hadn't spotted it yet. She smiled, and dipped her ship downward, turning to face the side of its wing. The Imperial could only spot her on radar, do to the wing blinding his side view.
"So long, Imp scum!" She cheered happily as she fired at the TIE. The Imperial never saw it coming.
"Good plan, Red 7," Red Leader said through the com.
"Thanks," She said, "Luke you alright?"
"Yeah, Jan," Luke said through the com, "Wedge got rid of that TIE."
"Red Leader, this is Gold Leader," the commander of the Y-Wings said, "We're starting our attack run."
"I copy Gold Leader, move into position."
The Y- Wings moved flew straight through the canyon structure on the Death Star. "The exhaust port is marked and locked in." Gold Leader confirmed as he piloted his ship through the line to the port.
Gold Leader approached the surface and pulled out to skim the surface of the huge station. The ship moved into a deep trench, firing laserbolts. The surface streaked past as laserfire was returned by the Death Star.
The Red Squadron waited above, firing at the TIE's and praying silent prayers to what ever gods that would listen that the Gold Squadron would successfully destroy the spacestation.
"The guns," Gold 2 said astonished, "they've stopped."
"Stabilize your rear deflectors. Watch for enemy fighters." Gold 5 warned.
"They're coming in!" Gold Leader cried, "Three marks at two ten!"
The Rebels and Red Squadron could only listen as the entire Gold Squadron was basted to pieces.
"Gold 5 to Red leader," the last Y-Wing pilot called into the com, "Lost Tiree, lost Dutch."
"I copy Gold 5."
"They came from behind." The middle TIE, blasted the Gold 5 into atoms.
Red Leader looked at his wingman, "Red Group, this is Red Leader, rendezvous at mark 6.1."
Wedge came in on the com, "This is Red 2, flying toward you."
"Red 3 standing by," Biggs said.
General Dodonna spoke to the Squadron, "Red Leader, this is Base 1, Keep half your group out of range for the next run."
"Copy base 1." Red Leader said, "Luke take Red 2, 3 and 7. Hold up here and wait for my signal..."
"Hey, I don't want to just sit in my cockpit and twiddle my thumbs!" Jan protested loudly.
"…To start your run." Red Leader finished, "That suit you, 7?"
"Oh," Jan mumbled turning pink with embarrassment, "Yes sir.
"Good, now no more complaints. Just because you're a good pilot doesn't give you the excuse to reprimand my orders."
Jan glared at the stars shining outside of her cockpit. She hated his scolding, but he was right, she had no excuse to complain.
Two X-wings moved across the surface of the Death Star. Red Leader's X-wing dropped down to the surface leading to the exhaust port.
"This is it!" Red leader cried into the transmitter as he swerved his craft through the canyon.
"We should be able to see it now," Red 10 said.
"Just keep your eyes open for those fighters."
"There's too much interference."
Red Leader sighed, "Red 5, can you see them from where you are?"
Luke peered at his scopes, and out his cockpit, "No sign of any…wait!" He said when three TIE's appeared at the Death Star's surface, "Coming in point 35."
"I see them," Red 10 said.
Jan noted that the middle TIE had wings that curved inward. That meant that the pilot inside would have a side view, as well as frontal. She frowned, why did this TIE have those special modifications when the others hadn't?
She was pulled out of her thoughts when Red Leader's comment came on, "I'm in range."
All of the pilot's in space, and the Rebels in the base waited tensely.
"Just hold them off for a few seconds." Red Leader instructed his wingmen.
With a yelp, Red 12's fighter burst into flames as laser fire from the middle TIE hit its mark.
"You better let her loose," Red 10 said panicky to his leader.
"Almost there," Red Leader said under his breath.
"I can't hold them!" Red 10 cried. Then Red Leader's last wingman exploded.
Everyone held their breath as the exhaust port came n range on Red Leader's radar, "It's away!"
"It's a hit!" Red 9 cheered.
"Negative," Red Leader said, dashing all of their hoped, "It don't go in, just impacted on the surface."
"Luke," Jan said, "He's gonna need our help. He doesn't have anyone covering him."
"Red Leader, we're right above you." Luke said, "Turn to point 05, we'll cover you."
"I just lost my starboard engine," Red Leader said.
"Any good news?" Jan asked sardonically.
"Get set to make your attack run," Red Leader ordered Luke, ignoring Jan's comment.
The pilot in the advanced TIE fired a series of bolts suddenly. Red Leader's ship exploded into pieces. Jan's face went ghostly pale as she watched his ship smash into the side of the Death Star, like a bug on a windshield.
At the Rebel Base, many of the officer's bowed their heads in defeat. General Dodonna breathed a silent prayer for their souls as the Death Star continued to edge closer. Kyle met Leia's eyes, and the despair in them reflected his own. Was it all over?
Luke quickly whipped himself into action, "Biggs, Wedge, lets close it up. We're going in full throttle. Jan you stay with the Red 9 in case more fighter's show up."
"You got it, Luke, "Jan said.
"Right with you, boss," Wedge said pulling in closer to Luke's X-Wing.
"Luke," Biggs asked, "At that speed will you be able to pull up in time?
"It'll be just like Beggar's Canyon back home."
"Beggar's Canyon, where's that?" Jan asked.
"I'll tell you later," Luke said.
"We'll stay back far enough to cover you," Biggs commented to Luke.
Wedge cried in panic, "My scope shows the tower, but I can't see the exhaust port. Are you sure the computer can hit it?"
"Watch yourself!" Luke warned, "Increase full speed throttle."
"What about the tower?"
"You worry about those fighter's, I'll worry about the tower."
Jan took out another speeding TIE, as it shot past her ship. She smiled at her victory, but it faded when she saw those same three TIE's coming towards her friends. "Guy's they're coming in!"
A direct hit was scored on Wedge, but not enough to do damage, "I'm hit. I can't stay with you."
"Go, Wedge, you can't do any more good back there," Luke told his friend.
"Sorry," Wedge said as he left the battle.
"You need me to come down, Luke?" Jan asked.
"No, me and Biggs's can handle this."
The TIE's began to pick up speed as they closed in on them.
"Hurry, Luke, they're coming in much faster this time. I can't hold them!" Biggs cried.
Luke looked back at R2, "R2, try and increase power."
"Hurry up, Luke!" Biggs could see the TIE as it aimed straight for him, "Wait!"
It was over in an instant. Biggs's ship turned into a million pieces when it was hit.
Luke felt tears form at the edges of his eyes, but he blinked them away. There would have to be another time to grieve for his friend. He had to destroy this station before more lives were lost.
Jan frowned when she saw that Luke had turned his computer. Base came in on the radio, "Luke, you turned your computer off. What's wrong?"
"Nothing," Luke replied, "I'm alright."
"Are you sure Luke?" Jan asked sincerely.
"I'm fine, trust me."
The dreaded middle TIE fired at the young boy suddenly, and scored a light hit. A high pitch squeal came in through the com.
"I lost R2," Luke cried.
Let's hope that's all we lose, Jan thought solemnly as the last frays of hope were slowly diminishing.
Princess stood with her hands clenching the end of the computer table until her knuckles were white. 3-PO would have looked thoroughly terrified if he were human, but just the way he seemed to shiver in his golden armor revealed his emotions. Kyle was silent, and completely frozen to the floor.
"The Death Star was cleared the planet," The intercom warned, "The Death Star has cleared the planet."
It would all be over soon.
Tears ran down Jan's face as she knew they had failed. The Death Star would soon fire at the base, and the entire Rebellion would be crushed.
"No star system will dare oppose the Emperor now."
Tarkin's boasts of the Empire repeated over and over again in her head. Perhaps he was right. What was the point in defeating something that powerful?
A huge white blur zoomed past her cockpit.
"What the…?" Jan said out loud. She peered at out her window, and gasped.
The Millenium Falcon was firing at the three TIE's. She could hear Han's whooping yell of victory, "You're all clear kid, now let's blow this thing and go home!"
Jan held her breath as Luke fired his proton torpedoes. She peeled out of there, in case they made it in. She could see Luke and Han on her radar as they flew out of the blasting range.
The massive Space Station exploded into a heavenly ball of light. Tiny particles of light floated on the edges of the wide gap of space. To Jan and the entire Rebel Alliance it looked like a miracle.
"Great shot, kid, that was one in a million!" Han cheered.
"You came at just the right time, Solo," Jan said.
"I figured a girl like you would need some help from a gentleman like me."
"Only to a Bantha would you ever be considered a gentleman," Jan cracked, "Luke that was great! You saved the Alliance!"
"Thanks, I couldn't have done without any of you," Luke replied shyly.
"Now let's head back to Yavin," Jan said with a big smile, "I'm sure they'll be cooking up a party like no one has ever seen before!"
Jan was the first of the X- Wings to land. The crowds cheered as she climbed out of her ship, and took off her helmet. Her hair had fallen out of its ponytail, and lightly tickled her face. She brushed it back and smiled at one person in the throng of Rebels.
Kyle smiled back, and held her when she ran and embraced him. Han and Leia came running and joined in.
"Let's give the real hero a welcome," Jan said as Luke's fighter landed behind hers.
The former farm boy smiled as he left his ship and laughed when his four new friends hugged him, and gave him slaps on the shoulders
Luke gave Han and punch in the arm, "I knew you'd come back! I just knew it!"
"Well I wasn't gonna let you get all the credit and take all the reward," Han smirked.
"I knew there was more to you than money," Leia smiled at him.
"Oh, now that's a compliment," Jan said.
"Oh no," Luke whispered when he saw the damaged and oily form of R2-D2 being lowered from the X-Wing.
"Oh my!" 3-PO shrieked, "R2, R2 can you hear me! Say something!" the golden droid turned to a mechanic, "You can repair him can't you!"
"We'll get to work on him right away," the man assured.
"You must repair him!" 3-PO looked at the five friends, and went to Luke, "Sir if any of my circuits or gears will help I'll gladly donate them."
Jan nearly laughed at the droid's charity. She could tell 3-PO was worried, but when wasn't he worried?
"He'll be alright," Luke smiled and gave the droid a pat on the arm. He turned back to his friends and they looped arms. As Jan had said, soon would be an party like no one had ever seen!
Sorry if it got a little slow at the end, I just wanted this chapter to end and it took me FOREVER! Anyways, next chap, we meet our favorite slug!