Chapter 15 The Enemy of my Enemy
A/N: When reading this chapter you have to think of it like this; when reading about one part the part that you read next is happening at the same time from the previous part. You'll know what I mean when you get there. Enjoy.
The Echo One traveled through lightspeed heading back to Dantooine after a rescue operations on a small planet before the Order invaded it. While the Resistance wanted to fight the Order and keep the planet from being taken over it was not the right time. This little planet will see justice some day. They were able to evacuate the planet's people safely as refugees and left. Maybe it was a battle won just not in the way they thought. It has been six months since the Battle of Naboo and word was that the Order has rebuilt their weapons system. But the Resistance has gained ground and fast. Their own fleet has grown and so has their numbers. In hyperspace with Echo One were a few X-Wings and the AH Holdo in tow. They should be home soon.
Ben's eyes fluttered open and he felt groggy and almost forgot where he was. He looked around the small room, it was dimmed and the low hum of the ship can be heard. He didn't mean to fall asleep for long but he did. But it's what woke him that troubled him. In the last six months since that night with Rey he has been able to sleep. He could sleep and nothing would pull him, nothing would to call him. He could sleep in a black abyss of nothing. But something pushed him awake but he couldn't remember what and that got him worried. He took a moment to regain himself and remember where he was. But another sound could be heard, someone was sleeping next to him and he could hear her soft breathing.
Ben then looked over and Rey was asleep peacefully too. Her back up against his chest and her breathing was slow and steady. He didn't want to wake her though as they have been up late, woken for early mornings. As Commanders of the Resistance they have been very busy both on the battlefield and diplomatically. He didn't want to get up. Just then he felt jolt just a little. He placed his hand to her head gently and tapped into her dream.
She still dreams about being abandon, left behind. He could see her as a little child screaming for her parents to come back. He could feel her loneness and her fear. But unlike before he can calm her even while sleeping. Their Force bond has grown even stronger. Ben didn't manipulate the dream or alter it he just allowed his presence to be felt within her dream. He can already feel her relaxing again. That dream comes and goes once in a while and it's becoming more rare these days.
Ben laid back down next to Rey and listen to the hum of space. But he was wide-awake laying there. He then looked over to the wall seeing the small clock and rubbed his eyes. He sat up slightly and wormed his way of the warm bed and the comfort of Rey but he needed to walk and stretch. As he got up Rey didn't stir and he gently placed the blanket over her to keep her warm. He hovered over her just a moment longer, looking at her. He liked looking at her, it seemed to sooth him a little.
"You still sleeping?" He asked in whispered and she answered with no answer. He leaned in and placed the softest kiss to her temple and went to leave for the bridge calling his saber to him. As he walked down the dimmed corridor lights were on trying to simulate a nighttime effect on lighting up the floors of the hall just enough to see where one was going. But the nighttime effect didn't seem to work for him right now. They'll reach home in the middle of the night so hopefully some people can sleep. Some may even stay in Echo One sleeping the rest of the night. As Ben walked the halls those who were awake stopped in his presence and either stood tall in acknowledgement of his rank or saluted him. The ship was running on minimal capacity in staff a crew. This mission took a lot of energy out of them and everyone needed to rest.
He was use to it by now, the salutes, although he still believes he shouldn't be commanding the Resistance. As he got to the bridge he saw Poe was there sitting with BB-8. Poe never saluted his commanding officer and if Poe ever jumped ranks Ben probably won't salute him either. They had a strange relationship to say the least. They could talk but say nothing to one another and yet understand each other. Poe saw Ben coming on the bridge as BB-8 beeped.
"How far?" Ben asked and Poe shrugged and looked to the computer and pressed a button.
"An hour, you should go back to sleep I got it from here." Poe suggested as he stood up and BB-8 rolled away to do what ever he does these days. Ben sighed as he looked around the empty bridge. Just a few people were operating the ship as they continued through hyperspace. "Can't sleep?" Poe asked and stood next to Ben who towered over him. Poe won't admit it but Ben was intimating, maybe that's why he likes to poke fun at him, it calms his nerves. If Ben wanted to he could wipe the Resistance with the snap of his fingers so Poe still remains on guard. His defenses have come down though as Ben fought side by side with them. And he can see how Rey has softened the beast within but he still remains on guard just in case.
"No, can't sleep." Ben then walked towards the large window seeing the stars pass by at high velocity. Poe can see something unsettled the reformed Sith Lord and it would probably be best not ask.
"You ok?" Poe asked anyways and stood next to Ben knowing he won't get answer. Ben only opens up to one person and one person only.
"I'll be fine," Ben trailed off still looking out. The Commander looked exhausted, everyone did after the last three weeks. No real battles but taking people off a planet and transferring them, it took a toll.
"So, how fast you think the General will have us back out there?" Poe asked and Ben looked to him. The answer was sooner the better even though a few days at the base would be nice. Leia will want the fleet out there patrolling as soon as the fleet was reflued and restocked with supplies. Ben then looked onwards.
Over the last several months the Resistance has been doing the gorilla warfare style. Attacking small groups and while it has worked it can only work for so long. The Order has gained it's footing again but so has the Resistance. They're fleet was triple in size and their fighters in the thousands now. In fact they had to have expanded within the mountain of the base to make room.
"Depends what the reconnaissance have found." Ben answered honestly. They have been evacuating this planet of people for three weeks straight and finally going home. Who knows what the Order has been up to in the last three weeks? Poe then looked to Ben. At first he wasn't sure how he felt about him. Could Ben be trusted? But that all changed the night he saw Ben dancing, swaying with Rey when the base finally had updated tech. Something had changed and has continued to change in all most a year. He was not Kylo Ren. Of course Poe knew there was very little keeping Ben Solo anchored and that was Rey.
If Rey disappears so will Ben and Kylo will take half the galaxy with no mercy. Poe couldn't be mad at that. Ben found something and someone to fight for. He had a reason to stay and a reason to go, very few get that in their life. He had to admire the Solo for what has been able to do but there was always a chance he could snap.
"Going to take a walk, maintain current speed and heading." Ben ordered as he began to walk.
"Got it boss man." Poe accepted the order and Ben left the bridge to walk the massive ship. Poe watched him leave. Maybe it's a good thing they are returning home. They haven't been home in weeks because of the rescue mission plus other little side scuffs with the Order. It would be nice to be home.
The ship's lights turned on indicating that they were out of lightspeed and going to land soon. Ben was back at the bridge commanding the landing process seeing the base. The lights were on to guide them but everyone else was also asleep for the night. Coming in this late was always difficult. They should unpack, settle in and go through checklists and maybe even eat a little and shower. But instead most won't even wake up and others will go straight to their quarters on base and sleep. Echo One went into the landing sequence and Ben left the bridge once more and back to the crew area. Once there he opened the door to his quarters and Rey was still asleep.
He watched her sleep for a moment and didn't have the heart to wake her. So he gently removed the blanket and grabbed the black scarf. She should get rid of it but she liked to wear it. It's big enough to wrap herself in and that's what she did all the time. Ben placed it over her and gently picked her up. She was in deep sleep but her instincts knew who had her and she pulled closer to him resting her head on his shoulder and wrapping her arms around his neck. Ben cradled her in his arms easily and started to leave. He had all he needed off the ship for now.
He remembered the first time he held her like this. He can remember being in his First Order ship and instead of laying her off to the side he continued to hold her the entire time. He didn't understand at the time why he held her and held her close, now he does. She didn't clinging to him then but she was just as light. Ben walked off the ramp and into the hanger feeling the cold wind on him. But Rey seemed to be warm enough to continue to sleep. Some of the crew like Finn and Chewie walked slowly off Echo One in a zombie like manner needing more sleep and others will wake up in the morning and go from there.
At the entrance of the hanger waited the General to greet those brave enough to wake up bare the cold night. Dantoonie's days were warm and breezy but the nights at times flurries would pop up. Ben was the first she saw as he walked to her seeing the black scarf covering Rey.
"Welcome home." Leia greeted softly as Ben stood before his mother. "We,"
"Later," Ben cut her off in a whisper he was tired and now was not the time to talk. He wanted to go and be with Rey alone, they haven't had time together and barely any training not that Rey needed it. Ben walked passed her and Leia nodded but she was happy to see everyone back and safe. Poe came up to the General and he stood before her.
"I need all of the fleet ready in the forty eight hours, sooner if it's possible." Leia started but like Ben, Poe just wanted to relax.
"With all do respect ma'am, can we discuss a little more time off?" Poe asked and Leia stood there. Time wasn't something they had but she could see the fleet needed.
Ben opened the doors with the Force and turned on some low lights just to see where he was going. It was nice to hear nature outside and quietness inside, no hum of a ship or space. He and Rey got a new room, maybe without people really knowing or caring. It was bigger. When they first returned he crammed all his stuff into Rey's quarters and it was very cramped. But this place was bigger, more room to sit and meditated, to study, to walk around and a bigger bed to sleep in. Ben gently placed Rey into the bed and luckily for them they tend to not make it so it was exactly the way they left it. Ben removed the scarf, gently removed her boots and placed the blanket over her and then sat in the small chair along side of the bed.
He let out a sigh and it did feel good to be home. He actually has a place to call home and warm bed to sleep in and someone share it with. Ben then looked to Rey as she slept. He should join her, as the hour was very late. But what about what he felt when he woke up? It was this strange feeling and he felt on edge. Something wasn't right but what? Ben got up from the small chair and sat on the side of the bed and reach out to Rey sweeping away some stray hair. Looking at her he never thought he'd feel like this for anyone. He then leaned in rested his forehead to her temple and spoke to her within the Force.
Rey started to stir hearing him but it was calm. She slightly rolled to her back she looked around a bit knowing she wasn't on Echo One; the bed was too soft. Her vision cleared and focused on Ben.
"We're home." He explained in a soft voice and she nodded with sleep still showing on her face. But while she was sleepy she knew something was bothering him. Rey sat up as she straightened up a little.
"Do you want to talk?" She asked and he knew even though it was late she would sit up and listen to him. Ben shook his head no meaning not now. But there was a longing though in his eyes. While they have been together in the last few weeks they haven't been together, matters of war called with more urgency than those of their hearts. Ben scooted closer to her and she leaned in to hug him. She then she felt his face nuzzle close to her ear and he started to whisper something to her and Rey smiled. It really did feel good to be home. "Really?" She asked and Ben continued to whisper to her, her smile was ear to ear. "It's been that long?" She continued smile feeling his warm breath against her ear as he continued to whisper only to her. Just then she felt him nibble on her ear for a moment and then his lips kissing her neck. She leaned into it closing her eyes; he could put her asleep just doing that. Rey wrapped her arms around his neck resting her forehead to his shoulder while he still kissed her neck.
She felt him pull away landing a soft kiss to her lips. He cupped both cheeks keeping her close. He could already feel her pulse increase which only excited him. Just as the kiss started to deepen both their COMMs on their wrist went off. It was Leia asking for a debriefing of the command crew. Ben looked to the COMM and he felt a lump in his throat and let out a frustrated sigh. He just wanted to be here with Rey. Something wasn't right, something was wrong and it felt like she could at least push it away. They haven't had true time together and he didn't want to pull away not from this. Ben rubbed his tired eyes and was ready to go to the meeting; this will have to wait…again.
Rey can feel his distress. She could sense he was tired and really just wanted to slow down. It's rare he makes time for anyone and he wanted to make time for her before the sun rose and another day started. They should go to the debriefing it was their job. But there weren't a whole lot of couples around at least not from what they could see. Rey looked down as Ben went to get up but she reached out gently taking his wrist and pulled the COMM off and she did the same with hers. She then clicked them off and tossed them away.
"Oops," Rey didn't sound concerned. "I didn't hear anything." She whispered and Ben allowed a half smile form. Rey went closer to him and restarted that kiss she wanted. He obliged her greatly and pulled her closer. The Resistance command crew can get through the debriefing without them they were sure of that. Rey pulled her self closer and rose to her knees forcing Ben to look up at her. He was begging for her with that look, those wide brown eyes, those thick pouty lips, and she liked that look; she had complete control over Kylo Ren, over Ben Solo. He might be one of the most powerful people in the galaxy and she had complete control. Snoke never did, no one did but her.
To think if someone told her when they first met she could make him beg she wouldn't have believed it.
"Rey," Her name slipped through his mouth still begging and she finally responded cupping his face and leaned in for a deep hungry kiss. He pulled her in even closer and gently laid her down on the bed. He just didn't want to feel anything right now except her warmth and that's it. The galaxy can wait just a little bit.
The command crew sat at the table a little sleepy knowing the faster they start the faster they can sleep. Poe then came as they looked up.
"I don't think Rey and Ben are coming." Poe started as he took a seat.
"Why not?" Finn asked and Chewie started to speak and the entire room got uncomfortable and 3PO looked around.
"My word Chewie." 3PO sounded appalled but Leia just dismissed it.
"Thank you, Chewie," Leia wanted to move on and Chewie nodded. Whatever Rey and Ben do these days was not her business and she wasn't going to press the matter. She looked around seeing everyone was tired and now all looking awkward.
"They're just using the Force that's fine." Poe wanted to speed this and Finn let out a childish chuckle. Leia glared at him. Connix was too tired to even listen.
"Oh, I'm sorry, official Resistance briefing right." Finn sat up and Leia continued to glare at him. In the last six months the group has became a very solid and cohesive whole.
"Fine," Leia could tell they were tired and the comments Chewie made didn't help. Poe was right, they needed more than a day; they really needed some time off. "We'll talk in the morning." She then stood up meaning they could leave. Finn still had a smirk.
"Didn't think of Kylo Ren like that." Finn added.
"It's loosen him up though, seems like it's all the guy needed." Poe added Finn laughed a little and even Chewie gave a chuckle but Connix looked disgusted and left. Leia looked at the three of them and thought they were not men at the moment just boys. They stopped laughing and cleared their throats. "I'm ashamed." Poe added but he really wasn't it.
The rest of the base was unpacking a little before turning in and Leia was going to allow a little bit of a slower morning. She was going to have to for Rey and Ben if any of what Chewie mentioned was true.
In their little room all but a few candle gave light to the dark. Rey and Ben had long shed their clothes and were in a heated session. Rey was fully awake now as Ben towered over her and was already rocking. She reached placing her hand on the scar of his face and their eyes locked. The rocking was speeding up as they continued to gaze at one another and Ben pulled her closer. Rey rested her face in the crook of his neck holding on. She felt safest here like this as if nothing else out in the galaxy mattered. He then felt her rake her nails down his back; that pain versus pleasure moment happened and he always liked it.
They're eyes locked again feeling the moment rising between them. She had her hands griping tight on his shoulders and he continued hoping that morning wouldn't come. He leaned in for one final kiss before he felt his body jolt and hers tremble under him. He let himself collapse on her out of exhaustion from the last few weeks and what they just did now. Rey wrapped her arms around holding closer finally feeling him relaxed. She felt him panting and she can feel him in the Force, he was at peace and balanced again.
They both slightly rolled to their sides looking at one another. But that peace she felt within was fleeting, it was gone just as fast as it happened. She looked to him knowing something was wrong. And something was troubling him. She placed her hand on his face and he looked to her.
"Ben?" She as he continued to look at her knowing he should say something. Rey knew it was hard for Ben to talk about feelings and fears but she saw fear. She then reached for his strong hand and squeezed it and then wrapped her other hand around his. "I'm here." Meaning she will listen, she'll do nothing if that's what he wanted but she'll be right here. Ben then reached to her hand that embraced his and then reached out to her face placing his hand on her cheek. Rey pulled him in and he inched closer as she embraced him. She felt him calming again knowing he was feeling safe. Ben pulled her as close as he could, trying to wipe out whatever it was he was feeling. She still can make the darkness disappear.
Some kind of blackness crawled towards him, pulling him, calling in a whisper. It was a harsh whisper as is snaked towards him getting closer.
Ben's eyes flashed opened as he looked around a little. The last of the candles burned down to the little oil they had left barely holding a flame. Ben looked down seeing Rey was still asleep soundly on his chest. He moved away slowly to sit up regaining himself. He wanted to go to sleep but right now he couldn't even with Rey next to him. That scared him this feeling hasn't happen in nearly a year, why now?
Ben climbed out of bed, put on pants, his boots and a light tunic and decided maybe a walk will help. As he walked around the base it was dead silent. Everyone was asleep and he headed for the hanger. The hanger door was opened and he knew there were still fighters on Echo One asleep. Ben then squatted down to the floor just sitting there taking in the silence and cool air blowing in. He would need to meditate, calm himself and allow the Force to speak. So he sat down for a moment to listen to the Force, all is as the Force wills it.
Ben sat at the little desk in the room. He felt tired and wanted to go back to sleep he took his shirt off and meant to get back into bed but instead sat there awake thinking. He would look at the time, as it seemed to slow down the more he looked. Something was brewing, something was calling to him; he can hear it whispering quietly as if it was in the room. He wanted Rey to make it stop because for once he felt fear. Fear was something he wasn't use to and he's only felt it once.
"Ben?" Ben jolted and looked over seeing Rey sitting up. Did he call to her in the Force? He didn't mean to if he did. Ben didn't say anything to her; he just looked to her in silence. Rey reached for the black scarf and wrapped herself in it and her way to Ben. "What's wrong?" She woke hearing him.
Ben turned away because he wasn't sure what was wrong. He just had this feeling, almost like an impending doom. He then felt Rey's hand on his shoulder and she could feel he was going back to his old ways when he couldn't cope, he cuts off. Rey walked to his side bending forwards a little.
"I'll be ok." Ben insisted and Rey knew if she as going to get him to talk she would have to let him talk on his terms. All she could do was be next to him. Rey leaned in gently kissing his cheek and Ben couldn't help but lean into it. She wrapped her arms around him and he placed a hand on her arm and they sat there in a comfortable moment. Just then there was a knock at the door. Rey walked to the door and answered it.
"Oh," Finn sounded a little racked and slightly turned seeing Rey only wrapped in that black scarf. While it covered her it was enough to tell him what they had been up to. "Uh, I'm not interrupting anything?"
"No," Rey answered and Finn nodded.
"Ben here?" Finn realized that was a stupid question to ask and as always Ben appeared out of nowhere. Finn jumped slightly because it just seemed freak him out a little. Ben was just in the pants and boots at the moment. This was hard for Finn knowing what they were probably up to but maybe the fact that they just didn't care that people knew and were comfortable with it, they had nothing to hide. "We're needed at the command center." Finn delivered the message and next time Poe will go Finn thought to himself. "It's urgent." Finn saw Ben go deeper into the room knowing he was going to get ready.
The command crew entered into the room as Leia waited for them. They should have some time off, regain themselves but something was happening. Leia stood up as they all took their seats at the table. Ben in particular looked tired and she could feel some unsettling in her son. They all took a seat as Leia continued to stand.
"I do wish we had could have some time to relax before the next mission." Leia was sincere about it. The Resistance has been hard at work. "The reconnaissance have given us a report and…" It was something serious and has developed in the last few hours since returning home. "The Order has been busy, they're building a weapon."
"Another Death Star? Starkiller Base?" Poe asked and Leia shook her head no.
"It's massive, bigger than the Finalizer, the Supremacy. It's a moving gun." Leia explained and then BB-8 rolled up to the General handing her a chip. Leia took the chip and placed it into the computer and before them popped up a ship. Rey scooted forwards and started to type.
"These are the First Order capitals." Rey started and four ships although the Supremacy was gone. The four popped up next to the new one to show the scale. The new ship nearly took up the table. Ben studied the large ship seeing what his old friends have been up to. This must have been a project that started right after the battle of Crait. He would have known about it if this was something prior.
"This new ship is not fully operational and we don't know it's capabilities are yet. At some point a weapons test will happen." Leia finished letting them know this will be a focus mission that will occur over time.
"Question one," Poe spoke up as Connix looked to him. "How do we destroy it? Infiltrate?" He asked but this wasn't going to be easy. This was going to take time. They wouldn't be able to fly in and do a trench run like the old days. The task force wouldn't be able to do much with it either. If anything they would need to study this ship and understand it and get all the data they could and that takes time.
"That's one problem." Leia began again.
"Oh, crap." Finn muttered because this was just getting better and better.
"We have been getting reports across the galaxy about hyperspace tracking." Leia went on and she looked to Ben because he will know more. "This was something the empire had mentioned during the days of the Rebellion and they managed to do it with us." Ben looked around. "Any ship they feel that can give us up they have been tracking.
"It was a piece of science tech both the Empire and the Order have been working on for decades. The science behind I…I don't know how it works." Ben was honest.
"We know how to deactivate it." Finn added and Poe nodded. "It's not easy though." The question how they can do it? How can they track through hyperspace? Both sides can project sectors based on coordinates of a ship but that was a wide range. This pinpointed a vessel. This took the Empire and the Order nearly forty years to perfect and make it work. How much time does the Resistance have to come up with something to counter it.
"I would need the program." Rey spoke up and looked around. "If you can give me the program I can maybe come up with a counter program, reverse engineering." She looked around and then to Ben. But that meant going to an Order capital to get it and that was dangerous. Ben was about to speak up and have the task force do it or some small party.
"Can it be done?" Leia asked because if they can get a counter measure then that will keep the Resistance fleet safe. They can also mass-produce it for the galaxy until the Order comes up something else. Rey didn't seem confidant in it but it was something they had to try and do. "Then I would like for you and Finn on this mission."
"You're going to send them to the Finalizer?" Ben sounded concerned looking to his mother.
"I can't send both my commanders and Rey is one of the top techs we have and like you, Finn knows the Order." Leia gave her reasoning. Rey could feel it, Ben was not happy. "I trust they can do this." It wasn't if they could or not, it was that they were going to an Order capital by themselves. If they were caught not only was that leverage but they will be killed. "Commander Solo, I know you disapprove," Leia had to take away the personal relationship out of this and make sure they understood their ranks and roles. "But I cannot risk two commanders on one mission." She wasn't trying to put anyone in danger but this was something that needed to be done. "Commander Rey and Resistance Commander Finn, I will have prepared final details for you both in the next thirty six hours. Dismissed."
Ben stood up first and stormed out. It's not that he didn't get picked for the mission it's because Rey was going to be gone. Something was stirring in him and felt now was not the time to be apart from her. He trusts she can do anything; she was his equal in the Force and his partner. But something wasn't right. Rey will talk to him and see what's really bothering him.
Ben stood on the mountaintop alone but he could feel Rey. He turned around and she stood there and sighed.
"How long is it going to take for us to be honest with one another?" She asked starting off the conversion. Ben stood there and Rey walked a little closer. "What's bothering you?"
"I don't know." Ben answered and that was true she can feel it. Ben didn't know what was bothering him he couldn't describe it. Rey stood before him. "It's that pull but I don't know where it's coming from." He did not initiate it or seek it. The pull just came from nowhere. He wanted Rey to be around to help and it was rather selfish of him but as before, he wanted to keep Rey to himself and not share with anyone.
"I won't be long." She tried to make light of this but Ben was still frustrated and she reached out to his hand taking it into her own. His stands, demeanor, everything was different. "We have time." She added and she pulled herself closer to him looking up. He then rested his forehead to hers letting her presence wash away the negativity he was feeling. He was afraid, he was afraid of her leaving and having to deal with this on his own. He hasn't been alone for almost a year now, he was use to it, use to having Rey next to him. Maybe a year ago Rey leaving for a mission wouldn't be so bad but now, he felt anxiety.
Rey reached out pushing away some stray locks of hair out of his face and he leaned in for a kiss. They have thirty-six hours before she was gone and he wanted to make the most of those hours with her.
Rey was leaning on her elbow propping herself up in bed as Ben laid they there. They have isolated themselves from the rest of the Resistance and spent time alone both within the Force and within one another. Ben knew they only had a few more hours to go before she received the plans and was off. Ben looked to her and she felt his anxiety rising. She then let her hand caress his face, remembering the details. She leaned in resting her forehead to his and he closed his eyes. Ben pulled her in closer just have another closer moment with her.
A small cruiser was being packed as Finn went to join the rest of the command crew. The plans were given to them, as it was time to go. Ben stood there watching the final packing and procedures as Rey was going through everything. Finn looked over to Ben as he stood there looking like a shadow. He decided to walk to the man and looked up.
"We're going to be fine." Finn insisted and Ben wasn't concern about the actual mission. It was a good plan but there was something behind it, something that was amiss and he didn't know what. "I'll take care of her." And Ben knew that too. He knew that Finn cared for Rey; he could feel it all around the man. Ben stepped away but Finn could feel Ben's approval on this and his concerns for both him and Rey.
Rey went to Ben to say her goodbye for now. Just then he pulled out a small band for her.
"If something happens, I'll be right there." His voice was quiet, deep and concerning. Rey took the little band and placed it on her wrist and looked up the tall man. He then placed both hands on her cheeks and his deep brown eyes showed fear. He trusts her, he knows she can do anything but that wasn't enough. He had to tell her something before she left. "You're the only right choice I've made," The low whisper was even softer and she could see him gulped. "Be careful Rey, this galaxy doesn't deserve you and neither do I." Now she wanted to renegotiate the plan and have Ben come with, something was making him act differently.
"I'll be home soon." She insisted trying to reassure him in every way possible. She got on her toes and placed a kiss to his lips. Ben pulled her closer. Poe looked to the moment and smiled just a little. But he to knew something wasn't right. Yes, Ben is very protective of Rey. She would stand there and he'd be her shadow. You as so much looked at her funny he would take you out with a snap. But this was something more and he decided to hang out with Ben just to stay close and help.
They pulled away as Rey grabbed a bag and joined up with Finn as they went to the cruiser. Ben stood there and watched the cruiser hover off the ground. He can see Rey through the window as she was piloting the cruiser and he felt one more wave through the Force from her. She sent him a vibe that he felt last night, a fleeting moment that ran through his head. 'She looked down at him with a smile as she straddled him. Ben looked at her hungrily and ran his hand up her chest and neck and let it sit under her chin. Rey continued to smile and grabbed his hand nuzzling against it. She then leaned forwards to kiss him.' An intimate moment and memory they created and given just for him.
Ben watched the cruiser take off into the sky and Poe stood next to the Commander. And for some reason that he couldn't understand Poe placed a hand on Ben's shoulder. Ben didn't look to Poe just the sky where Rey left. But that gesture did mean something even if Ben didn't say anything.
"Come on, let's fly some X-Wings." Poe suggested to Ben and the two started to walk, flying will help.
Rey sat in the pilot chair looking into hyperspace and the tracking device Ben gave her. He was always just a call away. She kept thinking about the previous night. Only in those lovemaking moments did she feel him balanced and even happy. She let out a sigh as Finn came over and handed her a cup with a drink in it. He then sat down and she could sense he was a little nervous as well.
"Want to go over the plans again?" Finn asked as Rey sipped her drink and nodded. It would pass the time as she reached for the little card and placed it in a slot and a HOLOgram pulled up of the plans. Rey then yawned as she leaned back in the chair and read the notes. They can do this and thinking back how they first met and how far they have come, they can do this.
Ben stood on the mountaintop with his lightsaber training by himself. His technique has changed since the days with the Order and even more since Luke. He went from huge swings and brutality to more refine and honed in. He looked to his red saber with it's cross-guard. He has yet to change the crystal within and it was still cracked just like him. He didn't want to change the saber because it was still him. It was still misguided, misunderstood and unfinished like him. Ben twirled the lightsaber and spun around swing it.
Poe sat off to the side of the mountaintop watching Ben train on his own. It was something of a spectacle seeing either of them Rey or Ben train together or separately. Up until Rey and Ben came to the Resistance he knew of the Jedi and of Luke Skywalker. One thing he did not know of is the name Ben had. Ben wasn't just a name his parents thought sounded nice. He was named after a powerful Jedi Knight. If anything that Jedi was his great grandfather in some ways.
Ben then turned around seeing Poe sitting there and clapped but slowly stopped.
"Ok," Poe muttered because he didn't know how this thing called the Force worked. He's heard of it, he says 'may the Force be with you' to people all the time. But it was more than a word and the more he hung around Rey and Ben the more he didn't understand. "So enlighten me Master Jedi." Poe stood up and dusted off his hands. "The Force, what is it."
"Something you can't use." Ben answered as he tossed his saber from hand to hand, turned around and started to swipe at the air as Poe heard the hum.
"Why?" Poe asked and Ben turned around and he criss-crossed the lightsaber in front of him. Poe can never shake the fact how menacing Ben looked, the Order found a great piece of work but then again the Resistance stuck gold with him as well. "I thought we're all connected."
"We are." Ben confirmed still holding the active lightsaber and pointed it to Poe and then held back closer to his body. "Just I'm sensitive in the Force, I can feel it and because of that I can manipulate it." Ben finished and Poe nodded.
"So, where do the Jedi come from?" Poe wanted to know. It's all myth and legend on his end. In theory Ben is a myth same with Luke. Ben then stood there and deactivate the saber.
"For over a thousand generations, the Jedi Knights were the guardians of peace and justice in the Old Republic." Ben explained. "They came from an order studying the Force, the Sith as well."
"They? And you?" Poe asked and Ben stood there.
"I'm neither right now." Ben was honest. He did not see himself as a Jedi or Sith but something in between. He can choose what he wanted. Jedi and Sith are born into one or the other. A Jedi can fall to the Darkside if they allowed themselves to through fear, anger and hate. His grandfather was a prime example. Anakin Skywalker feared loss, grew angry because he could not control and hated others and himself for it. Ben however, did not fall in the same path. He was born with both light from his mother and the dark from his grandfather. Both equally strong and depending on who called is the way he could lean. Rey was the one that called and she was a Jedi. She was the only one swaying him right now. But the fear of losing her was the path of the Darkside, he was always at the beginning of the path.
Poe looked to the man that can tip this galaxy in anyway he felt. He could save or destroy this galaxy depending on how he felt in that moment. It was a scary thought but it made sense.
Rey pulled the small cruiser out of hyperspace before a metal type planet. It was controlled by the First Order and the plan was sneak on a vessel that will take them any of the capital ships and they can go from there. Rey piloted the ship down and landed and they went to change. They had to pay attention around them and think where to go. They covered themselves to look more like refuges hiding the Jedi robes and the Resistance logos. They slipped on their packs and headed out. As they left the ship Rey looked around the nothing but grey and metal planet.
"It's so ugly." Rey commented and looked Finn as he shrugged.
"Yeah, just the way the Order likes it." Finn commented and they continued to walk. They would be finding a command station of the Order and continue from there. The planets occupants were walking around. There was a relationship between the inhabitants of the planet and the Order and Rey knew that they couldn't be here long. Ben spoke of this planet, as this is where Destroyers will refuel and repair. They just needed to find a ship that will take them to the Finalizer.
On Dantoonie Ben sat on the floor in his quarters silently in the Force. Because Rey was gone he will allow the dark to speak to him. It came when Rey was around so it should show itself now that he was alone. Ben allowed all his defensive to lower knowing this was dangerous but had to find out where this was coming from and why now. To allow this he had go back to his feelings as Kylo Ren. Ren would always have his fists clenched, his body would be tense; he would walk tall and with intent. Anger was constantly there but what brought that anger? The anger came from Luke for trying to kill him, Han for leaving him, Snoke for planting the seeds of hate and of lying and deception. He even thought about that officer of the bridge from Canto Bight that had more ideas for Rey than just dancing. That made him angry.
Everything ugly in this galaxy that will cause his anger to rise he thought of. Just then he felt it, the prickling in his fingertips. He heard the whispers growing in his head. He felt a sensation crawling up his spine. But where was it coming from? He then focused on the whispers, what were they saying? Just then it was like all the air and sound were sucked out of the room and Ben opened his eyes. He was no longer in his room but in some kind of cave.
Ben stood up looking around and looked for his saber that should be at his side. 'Your weapon, you will not need it.' It was a whisper he heard again and looked for the source but he was still alone. But something was calling to him and he turned towards it. The cave seemed to go far back and he started to walk. He can still hear the faint whispers around him as he continued to walk. Ben climbed up the path and then stood before a tree. The shape is what he recognized it was similar to that of the Jedi symbol. Ben walked closer and the whisper got louder as he stood before the tree.
"Skywalker!" A harsh voice called out and Ben turned quickly but there was nothing there. He was alone still and the whispers continued. Ben then saw a black hole just a few steps away and walked towards it and looked down the endless darkness. That's where the whispers came from.
"Solo," A softer voice called and he looked to the tree seeing nothing again. It was the call of both. He had to answer the call as he stood in between them.
"Ren!" Another voice called from behind and a dark shadow stood there. The shadow ignited a red saber and Ben ignited his own. The shadow then lunged at Ben swiping the saber at him and Ben blocked it. Ben and the shadow dueled with another as the shadow pushed him closer to the black hole. Ben kicked back the shadow and continued to swipe at the faceless figure. Ben slammed down on the shadow figure as it held Ben's saber at bay. He wanted to see the face of this shadow. Ben kicked the shadow again, spun behind him and grabbed the face pulling back the vial. The shadow pulled away and reviled itself to Ben and Ben's face went into shock. He was looking at himself. It was the same face the same scar even the same eyes.
The shadow that was him started to walk backwards towards the hole and Ben raced to himself reaching out but it was too late. His shadow self fell into the hole and disappeared into the dark. Ben stood there and then looked to the tree, as it started light on fire. He could feel the heat of the fire burning.
Ben's eyes flashed open as feel to the floor and looked around. He was sweating and could still feel the heat of the flames. Ben rolled over slightly coughed feeling the smoke in his lungs. He had even more questions than answers but he did understand. He was still battling the light and the dark, both wanted his soul. But still why has it been quiet until now?
Finn and Rey listen for any word on what ship was going where as they kept a low profile among the crowds. It was raining so it literally putting a damper on the mission. Rey looked to a Destroyer as it sat there in the distance. They always looked big in space but they looked even bigger on the ground. But an idea popped up in her and she reached for Finn.
The two walked quietly towards a Destroyer and looked around. The place was empty and the ramp was opened.
"They'll be boarding soon." Finn whispered to Rey knowing this Destroyer was going to leave. "Stowaways?" He asked again and Rey nodded. He then reached for Rey's hand and took and led her to the ramp and they raced up the ramp looking around. "Cargo bay, no one is ever down there." They ran swiftly because time was against them. Rey has never been on a Star Destroyer not like this. She's been in the ruins of one from the Empire though. The two made it to the cargo bay and now had to find a place to hide. There was no way of knowing if this was even going anywhere near the Finalizer but Rey still had a plan.
The two found a spot in a vent. Rey took a step back, sprinted and jumped to the vent. She removed enough to get in and reset it. She reached down as Finn handed her his pack and then took her hand and climbed up. Rey closed the vent behind her.
"We can use the vent system to listen." She said and Finn nodded agreeing.
"Alright, we're in business." Finn sounded impressed. "We should update the command crew. Rey agree and reached for her COMMlink.
At the base the command crew went to the communications center, as there was word of a message from Rey and Finn. Ben blew passed everyone because needed know what was happening. He stood next to Poe and Poe looked at him as Ben was in a little bit of a sweat; maybe he did another physical training session but the man looked confused and disheveled at the moment.
"Patch them through." Leia ordered and Ben was ready to jump into a X-Wing and take on the First Order.
"This Commander Rey," It was Rey's face on the HOLO. Ben's heart rate increased seeing her. "We're aboard a Destroyer hiding in the ventilation system about to take off," She looked around. "No word if this is going near the Finalizer,"
"Nope, they are," Finn's face pressed into the COMM and everyone saw them. "This Destroyer is going to make contact with the Finalizer." Ben's chest stopped hurting as he can relax a little. There was clapping among the communications room and Rey and Finn were getting that much closer.
"Rey, Finn we have Black Squadron ready to deploy if you need any help." Leia assured her two fighters. She wasn't going to let them do this completely by themselves and she knew Ben will want to jump in that's why she made it clear it was the Black team. Ben looked to his mother and with his eyes he said thank you.
"We're going to launch into hyperspace soon, we'll keep you informed as much as possible." Rey assured the General. Leia then looked Ben seeing his stress burning off of him. He and Rey have barely been apart since all this started so this was brutal on him. She was his best friend and she knew that. So, Leia turned the picture ever so slightly so Rey knew Ben was still watching and was still close. Rey then saw Ben on her end and let a small smile form. Ben calmed just a little more knowing she can see him. It was a reassuring smile for him. "Commander Rey over and out." The screen went dark and Ben looked to the ground.
"They're halfway on this." Poe not only sounded impressed but relieved to. Finn was his best friend and he always like Rey when they first met, he saw her as a little sister. He cared for both deeply and he knew while Ben won't admit it he kind of had concerned for Finn. They both came from the same place. Poe then looked to Ben and needed to get him. He has no control right now and that upset him. He then lightly patted Ben on the shoulder. "Come on," Ben looked to Poe as the pilot left and then he looked to his mom and she shrugged.
Poe and Ben stood on the mountaintop as Poe held a sparring stick. Ben held his and looked confused.
"You want me to teach saber fighting?" Ben asked and Poe shrugged.
"I can pilot and can use a blaster but maybe this can be another skill set." Poe answered the question and Ben didn't look completely convinced. "Plus, you have a lot of pinned up energy right now so…maybe you can just wail on me, get some of that aggression out." Poe offered and Ben stood there. "Won't hurt to learn something new, we have time." Ben then twirled the stick and Poe nodded. "That, like how do you do that?" He smiled and Ben looked to the man. He could see what he was trying to do, distract and he needs it right now. Ben then cracked his neck and criss-crossed the sparring stick in front of him and advanced to Poe. Poe nodded. "Yup, I'm going to get the crap kicked out me."
Rey and Finn sat in the air vent having no idea how long they had on this trip or where it was going to take them. They sat across from one another in the vent and talked in a low whisper. They were just talking about the latest events and maybe some plans when this was over. Maybe they could have some time off while the tech gets built.
"I will get time off, you and Connix will be creating the tech." Finn added and Rey smiled knowing that was true. "So…how is the happy couple?" Finn asked and Rey looked away. "Trouble in paradise?" Finn smiled and Rey looked to him. Everyone knew about her and Ben. It was no secret. They had each other all over themselves. "Looking back on Starkiller Base if someone told us hey you and him would be a thing and he would be commanding the Resistance,"
"I know," Rey agreed because no one saw any of this coming. While Finn still held a torch for Rey and she knows it he could see she was happy. "There's still conflict, he hasn't chosen a side."
"Maybe he's not supposed to." Finn offered up his side. "Maybe he's in the middle for a reason. He's both evil and good. It's a battle he has to face and he's making his choices like you. I want to say if you decide to leave, go to the Darkside so will he. He follows the strongest." At the time the Order and Snoke were the strongest now it was Rey. He will go as far as she does in this. Just then the ship rocked ever so slightly. The two looked around knowing they were at the Finalizer now they had to board it.
To stay covered the two crawled through the vents heading to the bridge to take a small ship. This Destroyer was sending supplies to the Finalizer and they just needed to hop on one. Rey let out a small squeal and Finn held up a small blaster as she got behind him holding his a shield. Finn saw what made her jump.
"It's a dead rat Rey." Finn looked to her. She stood up to and tamed the most vile man in the galaxy but she can't handle rats.
"Sorry," She whispered, "They're hideous creatures." She defended herself and the two continues to crawl. They came to a vent and saw the main hanger and the supply ships. "Down that way." Rey whispered meaning they needed to get to a lower level and did. Rey opened of the vent and the two stayed low and Finn pointed to a cart that was covered. They quietly moved to it and got under the burlap and laid down. It was cans of food for the Order. The two laid down side by side and held their breath. Just then the cart moved and was loaded onto a small cruiser.
The trip wasn't long and they felt their cart move and then stop. Rey peaked out and they were officially here.
"Get word to the Resistance, we're here." She whispered to Finn and he nodded bringing his wrist COMM to him and started to type.
On the mountaintop Poe was on one knee panting as Ben bested him in the sparring match. Poe can see it did help though, Ben looked better also he didn't look winded either.
"That, that was cardio for sure." Poe slowly stood up knowing the hike down was going to be brutal and then waking up tomorrow…he was going to die. But Ben didn't beat him he actually taught him some simple but effective moves. Poe believes he'll never hold a lightsaber but he can at least defend himself from something like it. Just then a voice came over the COMMlink sitting off to the side.
"Commander Rey and Resistance Commander Finn are on the Finalizer." A voice came through and both Ben and Poe looked to one another and then raced down to the base.
Once inside Ben's relaxed manner changed as he walked through the hanger and those saluting him. He headed to the communications room with Poe right behind him and he looked for Connix. Once he found her he looked to the screen.
"We got an encrypted message just now." Connix informed Ben as she typed.
"Is there a way to track them?" Poe asked as he joined up with Ben.
"Wherever they are, they're nearly out of range, that message came back in pieces we had to put it together." Connix answered and Ben didn't like this.
"I want everything to be rerouted to the sector that message came from." Ben ordered and Connix started to type.
"Tracing them to the Out Rim sector but that still didn't narrow it down completely." Connix informed her Commander. Ben looked to the map seeing it and he opened up into the Force and went to find Rey. Poe saw Ben staring deeply at the screen knowing he was looking for Rey.
"There, expand," Ben pointed and Poe smiled a little. He does not know how the Force works, why it does what it does but he does understand that Ben and Rey share it together. It was amazing that he can sense her even though she was on the other side of the galaxy, light years away. Connix pulled up the map looking as Ben continued to feel for Rey. "There," He pointed.
"Holy shit, they are out there." Poe commented as Leia and Chewie came in. "Finn and Rey are on the Finalizer, we've tracked them to the Out Rim near the system Elrood." Poe looked to the General and she looked to the map. They were too far away; getting a squad of X-Wings was impossible. They were all alone right now. They would need to send something like the Falcon out there but they can't, the Falcon was too recognizable.
"Call for an emergency meeting and keep monitoring." Leia ordered and Ben continued to look to the screen. He didn't want to leave but knew as of now he was the only Commander and that didn't sit well with him.
Ben stood before the Resistance Task Force and his anxiety was rising. Rey was so far away from him that he could barely feel her. He was too far out of reach to get to them in the time he would like. He just had to trust the Force and trust her for now; this was out of and beyond his control.
"Commander Rey and Resistance Commander Finn have reached the Finalizer." Leia began as she told them and there was a clap of victory but there was nothing to celebrate yet. "However, we've barely tracked them to the system of Elrood. It's deep in the Outer Rim, none of our squadrons can reach them alone." Leia looked around and everyone that she could see looked concerned. "We need to be ready to leave if we get any distress call." Leia continued. She did not want to alarm the entire Resistance and keep this small for now. Ben however was ready to get a cruiser and hang out in the Out Rim and Poe was ready jump in right behind him.
"We need you guys ready and we have a cruiser being checked and fuel." Connix stepped in but for Ben it wasn't enough. No one should get excited because no calls have happened yet. But they were so far away. "Code word for the call in the event of an immediate rescue is Irene." That'll keep the base calm until then. Leia looked to Ben, as she knew he was trying to keep up with Rey in the Force but because they were so far it was hard to do so. "Dismissed." Connix stated and they will get debriefed with the HOLOs they were being handed.
Chewie then barked something and it was both reassuring and un-reassuring. Leia ignored it and walked to her son. He can't sit here because it will drive him crazy. Sitting in the communications room will only do the same thing. So what can he do?
"Rey and Finn will be fine." Leia assured her son with a soft voice. Ben then looked to her and something wasn't settling well with him. "Ben?"
"They shouldn't have gone there." Ben stood up straight and Poe, Connix and Chewie looked to Ben. "Cancel the rescue mission."
"What? Why?" Leia demanded as Ben started to walk. "Ben!' She called to him. "I will send you everything you need but what is going on?" Poe looked to his new found friend knowing something was wrong. At first Ben was just nervous but his look and demeanor was all wrong and it worried him.
"I felt Rey and I felt a Knight." Ben answered and Leia sighed.
"Holy shit." Poe commented and Leia looked to him.
"Is that your new catch phrase?" Leia asked and Poe shrugged.
"Seems fitting for a time like this." Poe defended himself.
"Tavion Sage is the Knight." Ben continued. "He's there right now and he rivals my strength…he'll sense Rey." Ben was trying to prepare for the worst and felt the need to get out there. But there was a chance that both Finn and Rey can slip by unnoticed. "Just get me to Outer Rim just in case." Ben asked and Leia wanted to allow it but at the same time it can draw more attention than needed.
"Stand by Commander Solo." Leia once more made sure that Ben knew what role he held to keep him level headed. "We'll prepare a ship." That meant Ben could go but he would have to go alone, Leia can't risk any more of her command crew right now. Ben headed to the hanger, walking with a huge purpose. He would have to get a cruiser that was armed and ready.
Ben stood before the cruiser he wanted and it had a cloaking device on it so no one should track him. Poe then came running after him and stopped.
"You sure I can't tag along?" Poe wanted be sure Ben was ok. Ben looked to Poe and his face wasn't as stoic and menacing. But the answer was no. Leia was already upset with the unfolding of the new information and that another Commander was going out there. They needed to keep the Captain here. Poe then handed him something. "Just in case you need back up." Poe gave Ben a large COMM with better range. But he knew Ben was the back up. Ben boarded the cruiser alone and the ramp closed behind him. Poe watched the cruiser took off. Now he knew what was unsettling Ben. He had a premonition but he just didn't know what of.
Rey and Finn quietly walked the Finalizer in the belly of the ship. Finn led them knowing the general location of the hyperspace tracker. He pulled out the map and they looked to it. They were getting close. The big question will be how do they get off and the answer was the Destroyer. They get the tech and head back to the Destroyer and get off to the next system they dock at. They didn't have all the time but they had some. The two stopped because they heard footsteps of a band of Troopers marching down the hall. They waited and continued slowly together and came before the door.
Rey pulled out what looked like a small disk and attached some wires to the door panel. She started to type, as Finn was on guard ready. The door then opened and the two went inside and shut the door and looked around. It was a massive file room of disks of all kinds. So, where to start was the question.
"Find the tech on hyperspace tracking first." Rey ordered and Finn nodded. Once they had what they came for then they will steal other things. Rey pulled out a disk and looked and it wasn't the right one. Finn did likewise and they continued. As Rey looked she stopped and stood still. It was like something hit her hard in the gut. She looked around the room standing there feeling this…cold feeling. Rey walked slowly and then stood still and looked to the door. "We need to leave now." Finn then looked to her.
"What? Why?" Finn asked looking to her and Rey held up her hand to silence him.
"Now," Her posture and voice were different. Finn knew to stop questioning and started to gather his things. Just then he reached for a disk and smiled and that was pure luck, it's what they came for. He then started to grab random ones just to have extra information on their enemy. Rey opened the door and looked out seeing they were clear and they started to make their exit. They walked swiftly down the halls and then hid seeing some Order workers. They stayed still as they passed and continued on. Rey's pace had quicken, which only made Finn worried as they rounded a corner looking.
"We came this way right?" Finn asked and took out the map. Rey looked around and then heard something. Someone was screaming but she knew Finn couldn't hear it and she's heard that scream before. She then knew right away to close herself off from the Force.
Ben sat at in the pilot chair in hyperspace. He sat as relaxed as he could, trying to quiet his mind. He closed his eyes to find some sort of balanced. "Ben!" Ben's eyes flashed opened and he looked around. He heard her as clear as day, as if she was next to him. Just then the little wristband he had lit up, she was calling to him; she needed help. He couldn't fly any faster than he was going now. But in an instance he couldn't feel her and he knew what she did. He thought to himself, good Rey. All he could think over and over was that he was coming repeating 'I'm coming Rey, I'm coming,' hoping maybe she heard that before closing herself to the Force.
Rey took Finn's hand and they back track and Finn knew to follow. They went to an elevator and got in and decided to go down to the cargo bay again. Finn reached out and placed a hand on Rey's shoulder and she placed a hand over it. Finn then ready his blaster. He did promise Ben he'd protect Rey and that's what he was going to do. The doors opened and they stepped out but something wasn't right.
They were in a room and looked around. Just then a squad of Troopers came out and started to fire. Rey held out her hand holding back some of the blaster rays and ignited her saber and blocked other oncoming rays. Finn fired at the Troopers and they were easily taken care of as they looked around. Rey felt it, they were being watched but where. The two stayed back to back as they looked around. Rey looked up to the dark ceiling as Finn frantically placed a distress call but they were both unaware just how far out they were and the Finalizer was moving.
"I don't think I can get the message out." Finn looked to Rey and she looked to him. That cold feeling was getting worse. She then deactivated her saber and stepped away from Finn looking around.
"I'm here!" She called out looking around. Finn held up his blaster knowing they weren't alone in the room. Just then from the black of the ceiling a shadow fell down and landed with ease. Finn walked up to Rey holding the blaster up and started to fire. The shadow held up his hand blocking the rays and Finn stopped. Rey took out her saber, twirled it as she ignited and heard a chuckle.
"You are his student." A voice spoke knowing that was Kylo Ren's signature move, the voice was muffled though as the shadow came more into view.
"It's a Knight of Ren." Finn sounded worried as Rey held up her saber.
"The Jedi Knight, Rey of Jakku." The Knight continued to walk to them. Finn backed up but Rey held her ground. She did kill one of these things before but she had Ben with her. Right now, she didn't even know if her Force message got to him and if he'll get her in time with the tracker. Rey twirled her saber again and went back to her teaching with Ben. That's all she had of him at the moment, just his words of wisdom. The Knight of Ren then advanced to them as Finn continued to fire. The Knight blocked the blaster rays and then swung at Rey and she blocked him. Finn continued to fire at the Knight and this caused some trouble. He fought Rey with one hand and held out his other and violently shoved Finn to the wall and Rey heard something crack.
Rey held out her hand and Force shoved the Knight away. Rey rushed to Finn and he moved but held his arm, it was broken as it was limp.
"Rey! Look out!" Finn called and Rey reignited her saber blocking the red blade defending them. Finn grabbed a smaller blaster and fired at the Knight, which caused him to back off. Rey got up and started to fight. Finn reached for the back of his head and felt that it was wet and brought his hand towards his face seeing blood. But he had to help Rey. He grabbed the blaster again and aimed but Rey kept getting in the way they kept moving to fast.
Rey redrew her line of attack as the Knight advanced forwards. Rey blocked a few swipes then slid to the floor blocking a few more. Finn had a clear shot and started to fire but the Knight held out his hand blocking the rays once more. He squeezed his hand and sent Finn back to the wall knocking him out. Rey held up her saber ready to fight.
"Where is Kylo Ren?" The Knight asked and Rey stood there. Ben was safe and that's what mattered. "You're protecting him." The Knight started to pace around Rey as she held her defense. "So it is true, the mighty Kylo Ren yields to a girl." The Knight laughed. "Weak, he was always weak."
"Explains why he killed Snoke." Rey shot back and the Knight pointed his saber to Rey taking offense to that statement. Rey pointed her saber back at him and then took a ready stance. The two then charged at one another and their sabers clashed against each other. This girl was not going to be bested not easily the Knight can feel it. The two dueled it out for a moment and then held out their hands pushing against each other with the Force. They pushed away from one another slowly trying to out do one another.
"Enough!" The Knight had enough. He should have taken this girl out in the beginning but she was stronger than he thought. Rey felt him using the Force even more and she countered it. Just then in a split second the Knight retracted his arm and Rey flew towards him and skid on the ground. He let up just enough to bring her to him. He slammed down his saber to her but she was still fast and blocked him. Rey then kicked both his knees, got back up and kicked him in the chin and did back flip to her feet. She then stood there.
The Knight then realized she was not going down, not easily. Kylo Ren has trained her over the last year. She has had a year to settle into her powers and she has. This fight was going to last longer than he wanted. Rey lowered her saber and wanted to show just how hard he was going to have to work. She slammed the saber into the ground letting the sparks fly and then drew a line. She then twirled her saber back up and took a fighting stance again.
The Knight then charged at her, jumped and slammed his saber at her. Rey blocked and spun away and continued to block his moves. She swung herself back and spun blocking the saber. But one thing she noticed is that the Knight was driving her back and she had to push back. Rey kicked him as hard as she could and then used the Force for another push. She ran back to him and swiped again and he countered the block. Rey dodge the blade but it nipped her in the arm.
She held out her saber showing it didn't phase her. The duel continued on the Knight was getting frustrated. He then held out his hand and these blue bolts came out and Rey felt her whole body fly. She felt like a live wire hit her and she looked around. She went to get up to continued not knowing what had happened.
"No, don't get up." The Knight insisted and with the Force slammed her back to the floor. "You will tell me where Kylo Ren is and where to find the Resistance." He held out his hand flinging her saber away. He then held his hand up and slammed Rey against the wall and she felt that knife in her head as the Knight began to dig. She let out a cry and then he got closer. "Yes, call to him." He insisted. Rey opened her eyes and managed to kick him back but it wasn't enough. "A true Jedi you are." He held her to the wall and then removed his mask. He had dirty blonde hair, fair blue eyes and he wasn't much older than her. He got closer to Rey, face to face. "Tell me, where is Kylo Ren?" He dug deeper and she continued to resist and screamed.
Finn heard the scream and slowly opened his eyes. He looked up seeing Rey pinned to the wall. He looked for the blaster and then he saw Rey get flung like she was nothing. "Fine, don't tell me. I'll just hold your dead body up and let him come out of hiding." Finn found the blaster and went to fire but the blaster flung away. The Knight then brought Rey in front of him again and let her hover off the ground. "You are pretty though." He then reached out placing a hand on her face. "Very pretty."
"No!" Finn yelled and he looked to the man smiling. He then lifted his hand up and Rey flew up and then he pulled his hand down sharply and Rey's back slammed to the ground. She let out gulping sounds for air as the Knight walked around. Rey turned over slowly and looked seeing Finn. "Rey!" He reached out to her and she reached back. She then slid on the ground and then back to the wall again. The Knight started to toss her around like a rag doll. "No!" Finn cried out. Then Rey was flung to the wall where Finn was at and the Knight slammed her hard into it and she fell to the floor not moving. "Rey, Rey," Finn scooted to her and with the non-broken arm gathered her up in his arms. "Rey," He whispered seeing a bruise starting to form and her nose was bleeding. Finn looked up seeing the Knight standing there. He knew he was going to kill them both.
Finn continued to hold onto to Rey as he scooted closer to the wall trying to get away. He quickly sent a message for help but they won't be helped in time. The Knight walked closer to them slowly drawing this out. But Finn went to shield Rey hoping this may save her. Then the lights flickered and both Finn and the Knight looked around and Finn smiled seeing sparks from above. Just then a piece of the ceiling fell and what followed made Finn smile even bigger.
"You're so going to die." Finn muttered still smiling and Ben Solo twirled his saber while igniting it. "Kill that son of a bitch!" Finn yelled and the Knight ignited his saber as Ben charged at him. Ben swiped his saber at the Knight and barely dodged the red blade. The Knight turned around and their red sabers clashed for a moment. Both pushed one another away staring at one another and never has Finn seen such fire in Ben's eyes. They both stood there and Ben pointed his saber at the Knight twisting letting him know he was coming for him and the Knight charged at him and Ben blocked the blow. Ben then jumped in the air striking the Knight.
"Them over us!" The Knight yelled and held out his hand letting that blue lightening fly. Ben held up his saber blocking it but he's only seen Snoke use that power. Ben pulled away and then advanced again and the sabers clashed once more. Ben was using nothing but anger in this fight. He got a glimpse of Rey and she as not moving. It should have been him out here not her. The red sabers clashed and the two did not back down. They held their grounds and the sabers hummed against one another.
"Ben!" A voice called out and then Rey's saber flew to him and Ben grabbed it and kicked back the Knight. The Knight stood there, as did Ben holding the red and blue, standing there as he stands in the Force now. The two clashed again but Ben had more power on his side. Ben pushed back the Knight and then something pushed the Knight to his knees. Ben looked over seeing Rey holding out her hand giving Ben a one up. He then looked to the Knight. Ben then put one foot out and shoved the Knight down even further. Ben kicked the saber away and the blue and red blade laid on either side of the Knight's neck in a scissor like manner. Ben then didn't hesitate and the Knight's head rolled. Ben let out a sigh of exhaustion because that took more out of him then he realized.
Ben then ran to the other side of the room and Finn helped Rey to Ben as he slid to the ground and grabbed her holding her. She was badly beaten but ok. He held her tight but gently as well. Finn nodded to Ben indicating he was ok. Ben took one more moment with Rey just making sure she was real.
"Can you walk?" Ben asked Finn and Finn nodded. Ben gathered Rey into his arms and picked her up and then held out a hand helping Finn up. Finn grabbed the bags they had but how where they going to get out of here? They stepped into the hall and Ben had an idea. He walked up to sprinkler and looked to Finn. Finn took a small mini blaster he had and shot at it. Just then the sirens started and the sprinkler system went off. It would get them through to where they needed to go while the ship scrambled to get things under control.
They reached the ship Ben came in but no one was around as they were dealing with the fire trying to figure out where it was coming from. The three climbed inside as Finn fired at some Troopers that came after them. Ben gently laid Rey down as he went to take off. The doors would be closing and they needed to get out now. Ben sat in the pilot chair and started to take off and left the hanger. Just then Finn joined up with him and handed him something.
"Thought we could leave with a bang." Finn added as Ben took the detonator. "May not destroy it completely but a little something from the Resistance." Ben then pressed the button and they looked out the window seeing a section of the Finalize explode. "Grabbed a few other things too." Meaning the mission other than running into a Knight of Ren was successful. Ben put the cruiser into hyperspace and then raced back to Rey.
He sat down on the ground and gathered her into his arms. Finn saw the moment and saw the fear in Ben's eyes. He can see just how much Ben cared for Rey. He flew across the galaxy and killed another Knight.
"Should have seen her in the fight." Finn continued and Ben looked to Finn. He then looked down at Rey and her eyes opened. "She kicked ass." Ben looked to her and she smiled a little but the tears were welling up in his eyes. She was beaten though, hurt from the duel. Finn knew this was a private moment and went back to the cockpit and grabbed some medical supplies to patch himself up.
"Hey," She whispered and Ben just stared at her. "You heard me." Ben nodded and she could see the tears threatening to fall.
"Of course I did." His voice was in a whisper to. Rey smiled and he brought her closer to kiss her forehead. He felt the tears running down his cheeks. If had come a moment later she would have been dead. He had to push that out, she was alive and that's all that matter. Ben pulled her close as she wrapped her arms around him. He leaned against the wall and had no intentions of getting up. The longer he held her the more it confirmed that they were both alive. But this proved something else. She can stand against a Knight but it wasn't enough, what if next time he wasn't there? He needs to train her harder but he pushed that out for now. Rey rested her head on his shoulder and she felt him trembling.
"I'm ok." She whispered and Ben pulled her even closer afraid she would disappear.
"I know." He knew she was ok and let the tears fall. He was that close to losing her and that cannot happen again. He won't let that happen again ever. Ben closed his eyes allowing himself into the Force where he found her there and she was ok, they were both ok.
A/N: Well, that was some chapter. We started just like you know all things seem normal just going to Tosche station to pick up some power converters normal. Then boom, Knight of Ren, Rey and Finn are nearly killed and Ben nearly loses it.
I hope you guys liked this chapter though. We got to see some relationships build and seeing how the five of them are building into a friendship as well. The dark is back pulling Ben but he has a better understanding why. He and Rey need to step up their training game though. Now what happens? The Order has yet another weapon but what will this one do?
Let me know what you all think, comments are always welcomed. What was the best part of the chapter? Do you guys like the dynamics of the characters? What would like to see as we continue? Let's discuss.
Thank you all for reading, following and commenting, you readers are the best.