Chapter 29 The New Soldiers
The sun had risen hours ago but the place was just now awakening. Temiri Blagg, a boy of ten years old was awake though unlike the town. His clothes were tattered, falling apart and he will need bigger ones soon. He has been up since before dawn sweeping out the stalls, gathering water and eating a small piece of fruit in between all this. He continued to sweep and sighed to himself and the fancy town had begun to awaken for the day.
Temiri then heard his master yelling from the back demanding he come over. The little boy did as he was told and went to the stalls. His master and owner yelled that the stalls were still not clean. The stalls will never be clean Temiri thought to himself but to avoid a whipping he went back to cleaning them. Once his master was out of site he went to his stall and found a few makeshift dolls he had made. He sat down with them one holding a stick and another what could be made as a blaster. The one doll with the stick was moved to show that it was doing flips and he made blaster ray noises with the second doll. It was a fight between a Jedi Master and some kind of bad guy.
On the other side of the royal casino a young man pushing sixteen was doing his daily chores as well. He was inside one of the casinos wiping down the bar from the drinks that had split and became dry. He would collect stray drinking glasses here and there and would later take them to the washing room. This young man was tall, lanky, his hands seemed to be bigger than he wanted them and has yet to grow into them. His hair was moppy and a little tattered. The teenager's name was Jatt Klusto.
Jatt has been living on Canto Bight for what he feels is most of his life. He had fragmented memories of a different life with his mother. One day he and his mother were being chased down by Storm Troopers and they made it here. He could remember holding his mother's hand as he ran with her. She set him down in a small nook in the alley telling him to wait there and she would be back. He waited for three days before being picked up and has never seen his mother since then. To this day he still had no idea why he and his mother were chased by Storm Troopers and why she never returned.
His new home was the brothel next to the casino where women of all types and races were here. Some were escorts to the wealthy, to enhance their status. Others were passed around for the pleasures the galaxy could offer. He grew up with those women, they have him a place to sleep. He also protects them if any are hurt or mistreated in his eyes. In between being their bodyguard he also helped keeping the casino prepped and clean. Today was just another typical day. And every once in a while someone left money behind in their drunkness and he would collect and keep.
Ben sat on the medical bed with the medical robot pulling at his left arm and shoulder. It felt good to stretch it out, to be able to fully rotate it. A few of the bruises were still visible but they were in their last stages of fading. He was declared in full recovery. His left shoulder had been giving him problems but with some extra help it felt better. He looked to the x-ray of it seeing a few pins had to be put in place to keep him living normally. Ben let out a sigh as the last exam finished. He was being cleared for duty.
His left arm would require some more rehabilitation. He can hold and swing his saber but if felt different. That blade tore at his muscles, tendons, hit and went through the bone. His lightsaber abilities have taken a backseat and he wasn't happy. It was hard to lift even some of the lightest objects at times. One thing was on his mind and that was revenge. Bleys was dead but there were other Knights out there.
Ben made his way outside seeing Rey was already training. Her own training staff had changed to mimic her knew lightsaber. It was an adjustment for her and she had to relearn a little on how to fight. Right now Ben was just guiding her with basics and as always she continued to exceed the basics. She twirled the staff with easy movements and Ben called his own training stick to him. He has been favoring the one arm fighting style lately. It seemed to work and with Rey's new fighting taking shape it challenged him. Ben twirled his training staff and Rey faced him.
She at first took it easy with Ben but he dug his heels in and knew to never take it easy with him. Ben will not go down easily, she's seen it more than once. He just keeps coming back and that should scare anyone. The two took a fighting stands and went into sparring mode. Rey was wielding a different saber these days and it changed everything for her. She almost had to relearn parts of her training but she learned quickly.
Finn and Poe were outside with them watching and it was something to see. The Jedi and Sith are legends these days and to see them face to face training was something for the books. Rey and Ben matched each other and could not go beyond that. Ben had a one up for a moment because of Rey's retraining. She also had a one up for a moment because of his injury but those moments were just that, moments. They both were able to readjust and continue on.
The high afternoon was on the city. The party doesn't start until the sun begins to set. Jatt was walking the streets with some bags that held some fresh produce that he was bringing back to the brothel. He was going one direction heading back. As he kept to his own business he picked up on some cackling and it caught his attention.
Among the laughter was little Temiri. He was cornered by some bigger kids and they were tossing around the makeshift dolls. It could be seen as harmless fun but when Temiri managed to grab one of the dolls away he was shoved down to the ground. The bigger kid and most likely the leader broke the doll in half and dropped it on the ground. Temiri just sat there not knowing what to do and if he just waited maybe then these kids will go away.
"Hey!" Jatt yelled out and he was taller and older than these kids. The started to scatter away before Jett could do anything else. Jatt made it to Temiri and got to his level squatting down. "Are you ok kid?" Jatt asked and Temiri shrugged. Jett then held out his hand and Temiri took it as they stood up. "My name is Jett."
"Tem…Temiri," They introduced each other and shook hands. Temiri then reached for the broken doll and held it.
"You made that?" He asked and Temiri nodded seeming a little proud of that. "What is it supposed to be?"
"A Jedi Master." Temiri answered and Jatt then lowered himself a little more to be at Temiri's height.
"You know about the Jedi?" Jatt asked and Temiri shrugged. He's heard of Jedi like most people but that doesn't mean you know anything.
"Jatt!" A voice called out to him and both Jatt and Temiri looked seeing a girl about Jatt's age waving to them. She was one of the daughters of the brothel owner. She walked over to the two boys and Temiri looked at Jatt and Jatt's eyes were glued to this girl.
"Hey, Kea," Jatt greeted her. "Kea this is Temiri." Jatt introduced them. Temiri looked to the girl. She had tanned skin; dark long curly hair and her eyes were big and brown. Kea smiled at Temiri and it was a warm smile. "He made a Jedi Master." Jatt was making some small chat and Kea looked to the doll.
The three of them walked down the streets together in the rather calm and peaceful day. The beach was calm, the sun was warm and the there was nice breeze going. Temiri was rather quiet as Jatt and Kea talked mostly about their day and what the night was going to be like.
"Temiri, are you ok?" Kea asked and the little boy looked up to her and nodded. "Are you always this quiet?" She asked and Temiri shrugged but held a silent smirk causing Kea to smile bigger. Kea then gently scooped up the small boy and that seemed to turn the smirk into a smile.
Rey finished tying the back of her green dress as Ben walked in. They were no longer in training robes or Resistance uniforms. Ben was back into his traveling king robes and Rey in a dress. She was not only going to represent the Resistance but she was also Ben's guard. He wouldn't trust anyone else, everyone that stepped up to volunteer or was appointed he shot down. He would only trust Rey so now she goes where he goes. Some of the Commonwealth leaders felt it was a ploy by the Resistance to have someone sit in. But others knew regardless if Rey was apart of the council Ben was going to report back.
Rey wasn't just representing the Resistance in this; she was also potentially representing the new Jedi. The one thing Rey didn't like is the dress. Yes, she felt a little feminine in it and felt pretty but she felt how could she fight in it? The dress was flowing so she could move but still felt restricted. She looked to Ben and sighed and he knew she was uncomfortable in it but was a little amused by it. This green dress was the last one he was going to let her try. She goes through different ones and was never satisfied.
"I don't know." She sounded like she wanted to change again. "Why can't I wear,"
"Rey," Ben cut her off. They were about to run late and she looked to him. She looked nice in everything but that was beside the point. She called her saber staff to her and slung it behind her. Ben wasn't going to lie, he kind of like that look.
"Let's go." Rey thought the faster they leave the faster she can get out of the costume. She kept herself from tripping slightly in the elevated shoes and saw Ben trying not to smirk. He let out a sigh and left heading out to the meeting.
"You look very pretty." Ben hoped that would help.
"You're not helping." Rey continued to leave and Ben followed.
Within the hall more leaders have started to join. Rey and Ben entered in looking around and found a spot to sit at. They should sit separately as they were representing different entities but they can't be separated, not easily. The room started to quiet down as the meeting started.
"We are receiving reports," That always the start of it. Rey braced herself for boring politics and she would later have Ben retell it in a condensed and easier way. She wasn't up for politics and even though Ben wasn't all for it he did understand it and came from politics. When you had a grandmother who was a queen and a senator, a mother who was a princess and step-grandfather who was prince consort and also a senator, you might know a thing or two. "The Order has pulled back from four Outer Rim areas," The alien went on as Rey settled in her chair. Ben watched her from the side knowing she already checking out of the meeting. "But spies have confirmed they are looking for…" The alien went on. "We are receiving reports that a list is being compiled of names." That made Rey finally pay attention.
"Who are the people?" One member asked and that was a good question. Maybe Ben's name was still there, maybe all their names.
"They hold no political, no official ranking, no titles of any kind from what we have learned." The alien answered. This was new and still developing. Rey and Ben exchanged some questioning looks knowing this will be something to monitor.
The meeting had ended and overall there were more recruits for the Resistance and more system leaders wanting to join in the Commonwealth. The main concern was a list of names but so far the names didn't hold any meaning, not yet at least. But the Commonwealth, these frequent meetings, this was pushing back the First Order but it was also adding fuel to already burning fire. They had to be careful as they continued to grow.
The sun was setting out on the beach and the three new found friends were out on a more secluded side of the beach at a little tavern. When servants were no longer needed and the nightlife was in full swing the lower class would come here. There some music playing and Temiri watched from a far as Jatt and Kea dancing well Kea was dancing Jatt seemed more like a buffoon but he was trying. They then met back up with Temiri and she held out her hand to Temiri. The little boy took it and she held onto his hands and swayed gently with him. Temiri smiled and got a little bit more into it.
As the relaxing went on the three sat together having maybe the only full meal of the day. Kea ate better than them and it wasn't by much. You would think a brothel owner made money but to keep up with the cost and maintaining the place, it took more than what the brothel makes at times.
"So, you want to be a pilot?" Kea asked Jatt and he nodded sipping his drink. "Can you fly?" She asked and he shrugged.
"I can learn." Jatt assured them.
"The question then, First Order or the Resistance?" Kea wanted to know. Out here they were left alone from both. The First Order would show up but it was to enjoy the nightlife and it was rare to see them. Jatt shrurrged again because he didn't know.
"Whatever gets me out of here." That was Jatt's honest answer and Kea nodded. "What about you? What do you want to do?" Jatt asked and went back to eating.
"I don't know." She sounded not upset either by not knowing. "I've never thought about it. I know I want to leave."
"Maybe the three of us can get out of here one day." Jatt commented but that was much easier said than done. Kea would have an easier time getting out. Jatt and Temiri were slaves and out here there was no way to buy out your slavery or win it. You had to escape and running away isn't easy. Some have and if found they were placed in harsher work conditions. Usually a bounty hunter went after you. Some would view a slave's life as expendable and would care less but here, slaves did all the heavy work that made this place beautiful. They were money and they didn't want to lose money.
"Well, when you find a way, let me know." Kea added and held up he cup and she and Jatt tapped cups.
Kea looked down at Temiri as he had fallen asleep in her arms. She and Jatt had just been enjoying the music. They knew they have lost track of time and should head back to the city and turn back to their right places.
"Where does Temiri come from?" Kea asked leaning towards Jatt.
"Stables, I know the smell." Jatt answered and she nodded. Jatt then offered to take Temiri and the two got up with the sleeping boy. They left the warm tavern and walked out to the beach. The two teens walked side by side together and the night was a starry one for sure. The moon was bright and full and from atop of the cliff you could hear the faint music of the casinos.
Kea and Jatt managed to get Temiri back to the stable unnoticed at the moment. The two were now walked back to the brothel together. The young teens stood before one another and that awkward silence was between them. They moved closer, looking and feeling silly and shared a hug that held space and felt weird. The two pulled away looking at one another and Jatt smiled. Kea smiled back and pulled away a little ready to turn in for the night.
Out the calmness a loud sound was heard, almost like thunder. Jatt and Kea looked up into the night and a huge Star Destroyer getting closer. Of course the First Order comes here but not like this.
Ben walked around the hall of the meeting location with Rey next to him. She had long ditch the dress and was back in her normal clothes with her lightsaber slung behind her. Ben was liking the double lightsaber more and more for her, it seemed to suit her. The two came up to the designator of the Commonwealth. There was no true leader, no president, prime minister or chancellor of the new government. No one really knew how to vote on it or how to decide it.
"Your Highness," The alien being greeted Ben. "Jedi Master," He acknowledged Rey. Rey noticed that this one member in particular greeted her and Ben. It wasn't Admiral Solo or Admiral Rey; he seemed to go with a more fitting title to them.
"How can we help?" Rey asked the alien. Alien was name Argar. He was tall, lean, long black hair, wide eyes with a pale pink skin. Argar motioned for the two to follow him.
"The Commonwealth is gaining grounds now, more leaders of the Outer Rim, poorer systems and even some Inner Core planets are asking to join." Argar started to explain. They were nowhere near large enough to counter the Order politically but it was a start.
"That's good." Rey added and looked to Ben but Ben looked reserved in the statement.
"It is Master Jedi but it's not enough." Argar seemed on the fence about what he was saying. He then looked at the two. "The Resistance, we do need an army that much is known. The Resistance needs to be ready to mobilize and fight for the Commonwealth."
"No." Ben stated clearly and Rey looked to him. She was a little confused. "The Resistance is to push the Order back but they are not going to be a personal army."
"And what of the Jedi?" Argar looked to Rey.
"Jedi are peace keepers, they will protect you but they not fight a war for you." Ben answered and Rey nodded. Jedi kept the peace and balance.
"Then why no army?" Argar asked which was a good question. The Resistance has come back ten fold since Craite. Ben walked a little closer to him.
"I want systems to join because they feel safe to. The Resistance like the Jedi will keep the peace." Ben explained and Rey couldn't help but smile just a little. "Fear, it's what the Order does, it's what the Empire did. We want peace and freedom not fear." Argar seemed impressed by that answer.
"Ben Solo," Argar looked to the young king, the reformed Sith, the traitor of the Order. "There's talk about not just nominating but…truly choosing a leader. You're already a king of a small but hopeful race, you command the Resistance,"
"No." Ben already declined the offer before it was even offered and Rey turned sharply to him.
"Ben," Rey wanted him to take the opportunity.
"No," Ben stated firmly and looked to Rey.
"Your Highness," Argar continued on. "These leaders are looking for some one to lead them. You were deep within the enemy and they have seen what you have done."
"Ben, he's right." Rey was advocating for him. This could be his chance to sit on the same level with Antar.
"Antar claims he is Supreme Leader and that he will rule." Argar made sure that Ben was still aware of it. "He knows you have come forth as a king, and he will not let this galaxy unit under one banner, a banner you have started." Argar then looked to Rey. "You both have started." Argar looked back to Ben. "Take the position for the time being. Afterwards step down but,"
"No," Ben reaffirmed his choice. He was actually afraid to. He has amassed power as is. He commands the naval fleet, he's a king and now possibly adding on Chancellor or Prime Minister, whatever they were going to call it. He's seen what power does and you can become drunk off of it. It would be easy to say yes but he didn't feel that was call or his duty. He felt he needed to represent his people and continue to help Rey with the Resistance and he liked that. If anything he liked being on the ground and in the trenches not sitting in a chair. Argar nodded knowing not to persist but looked at Ben, he really looked at Ben.
"Then may I ask for your continuing council on Commonwealth?" Argar asked and Ben held out his hand and the two shook. It meant whom ever they may elect; Ben will work closely with them. Argar bowed slightly to Ben and then turned to Rey. "Master Jedi." He did a bit of a deeper bow to her and left. Rey then looked to Ben and he knew she wanted to talk but at the same time there wasn't much to talk about.
The sunset was before Ben and Rey. The beach was calm and the wind was soft and warm. The colors were a mix of deep pink, orange and the blue sky turning into dark. The sun was slowly descending behind the ocean. Rey and Ben were right on the beach where the waves met the sand. The water was warm and soothing and it was tempting to fall asleep where they were at.
"What was it like?" Ben asked looking towards Rey as she laid in the sand. She looked over to him. "Sunsets on Jakku?" Ben finished his question. Rey propped herself up on an elbow and she took a moment to think. Ben managed to see one when he was on Jakku with her. He's been to Jakku twice and still wanted to never go back.
"It wasn't always bad," Rey knew what he was asking. It wasn't just about the sunset; it was about her whole life there. "Some sunsets…it would be this deep orange and red and the way it was mixed…" Rey smiled a little thinking. "It made the whole sky beautiful." Ben continued to look at her as she went on. "The sunrises too, some…" She paused as she brought those memories forth. "You could see the blue sky behind the sun and see the difference between sand and the sun, between the earth and the sky." Rey took another moment thinking. "What about you?" She asked.
"About what?" He asked not understanding.
"Sunsets, the ones you've seen. You've seen the galaxy." Rey answered and Ben turned back to the horizon.
"One planet, it was winter and the white mountains against the blue sky…" Ben paused, to him that was rather breath taking. "And then when I was kid I went with dad to this place and the leaves were changing colors and…" He took a moment. "There was a lake, it was so calm and the reflection from the trees and their colored leaves against the lake…it looked like a mirror." Rey smiled a little. "When I was heading back to a cruiser when I was in the Order, there was a sunrise that you couldn't tell where the land ended and where the sky began." Seeing all the hate and war didn't compare to some of the beautiful things still out there.
Ben then looked to Rey and she was smiling at him. He can tell in her gaze she was thinking of all those images, painting a picture in her head.
"I wish could see those, been there to see that." Rey was soft in her words. Ben has covered this galaxy with the Order, has seen many places. Rey was stuck a wasteland of a planet her whole life. She thought Jakku's sunsets and sunrises were the most beautiful thing out there. He himself has taken for granted the true beauty of the galaxy.
"I'll take you there." Ben declared and she looked up at him. She can tell that was a promise. She has already seen so much but she was seeing the ugliness of the war. But to think Ben searched for this spot in the entire galaxy because she mentioned how she loved the ocean. Maybe when this is all said and done, when this over or at least over for them they can build something right here.
Ben looked to her and still hurts to think that she was just dumped on a planet like garbage. And she was loyal to them, she waited, he remembers those tick marks on that wall counting those days. She waited for them to return whether she believed they were coming back or not. She was left to survive on her own. She was left to starve and to take care of herself. No one was there for her, no one was there to comfort her, help her if she got wounded. She was alone at night, alone in the dark. It made Ben angry to think that. His parents loved him and as much as he felt abandon at times, they were still there ready to take him back, Han even came to him before his death.
But Rey, her parents died never leaving any indication of their returning, any idea or feeling that they may have loved her or thought about her before they died. She was alone for years. Ben felt it was his responsibility to give her the life she missed out on and a life he maybe he took for granted. Ben continued to look at her knowing they can't change the past and as much at times he wanted to obliterate his own, it wasn't going to change anything. Ben lowered himself so he was now laying in the sand and the water with her. Rey scooted closer to him resting her head on his chest. This was more than peaceful right now. They were watching the day turn into night and the stars started to come out overhead of them.
"Can you name the stars?" Rey asked him and Ben looked up into the early night sky. "The constellations?"
"Very few." Ben answered as they looked up. "Can you?" He asked and Rey laid flat on her back but their heads were even with one another. Rey looked around seeing the twinkling stars appearing more and more. She began to scan the sky to see what she could find.
"That one." She pointed and Ben looked to the direction. "That's Ronto." She pointed to a cluster of stars. "And then there," She moved her finger a little to the left. "That's the Burning Snake. You can see the line of stars forming." She then turned to Ben and he turned to her.
"Look at you." He was impressed and Rey smiled a little and then looked back to the night sky. The air was even cooler now. The sun gave it's last light and the darkness was setting in fully.
"I could always name the stars and constellations Ben Solo." She added; Jakku had some of the clearest nights. She would hear junk traders and pilots talk about the stars and moons. Ben turned to face the night sky feeling calm and relaxed. They would have to get up soon, they would have to end this peaceful moment and go back to the war. He didn't want to, this was the peace and calmness he always long desired in his whole life. Rey once more placed her head on Ben's chest as they continued to feel the water wash up on them.
Jatt ushered a few more people down the sewers as Tamiri made sure the door was open as they ran in. Jatt looked behind him and no one was following them and he went inside. He took off the mask as he looked around. From above you could hear the faint sounds of the AT-ATs walking around. Kea then came over to Jatt.
"That's all you could find?" She asked and Jatt nodded. "My…my father?" She asked but Jatt stayed silent. Every since the Order landed Kea hasn't been able to find her father. "Now what?
"We need to find a way out of the city, we'll get off the planet from there." Jatt explained.
"Good plan, but, the Order has blocked off all known ways out." Another servant spoke up.
"The real question is why are they even here?" Someone else spoke up. Canto Bight was left alone, it doesn't have any ties to either side and it's just a giant nightclub when you think about it.
"The Order is looking for some one." A woman declared. "Remember that Jedi?"
"There are no Jedi here." Jatt stated.
"There is something here and they want it." The first servant spoke up.
Ben stirred awake and looked around. He and Rey were still on the beach. He wasn't sure how late it was or how long they have fallen asleep. But at the same time he didn't want to get up but had to. Rey's head will still on his chest and she was still. But it's what woke him up; he felt this weird surge hit him.
Ben was looking through the data from the old Jedi Temple. He was half asleep while doing this but he needed to find something although it would be easier to know what it was. Rey was asleep and while he could use her help because she was a tech genius she needed to sleep. He didn't want to alarm her until he had something to be alarmed about. Ben clicked a few keys as more data ran across the screen. He knew Rey didn't get all the information from the Jedi Temple; most of it was either wiped out or encrypted. Rey has decrypted the information so this was a little easier to get through.
Ben started to swipe through some of the data but then stopped on one section. He pulled it up and started to read it and found what he was looking for.
The Resistance leadership were all in the meeting hall for a rather early but an important meeting. Ben hoped it was some information they could use in the fight somehow. Rey yawned as she typed something and the room went dark with the HOLO appearing before them. Ben then took center stage because only he had the slightest idea what this was.
"It's called a holocron." Ben started. "During the time of the Old Republic it was used by the Jedi Order to find Force sensitive beings. After Order 66 the Jedi at least we thought they destroyed the holocron." Ben finished and that was going to present a problem. "It's not working at this time, it would need to be reprogramed, restarted,"
"But if the Order were find this, reengineer it then they could find future Jedi?" A leader spoke up and Ben nodded.
"The Knights of Ren will do that." Ben added as he looked around. But there was more to this. "I felt something last night. It was push."
"A new Jedi?" Poe asked but Ben couldn't deny or confirm that. "Ok, so let's say because Antar is a Knight and a Force…person…let's say he has already has something like this or a prototype. That does what?" Poe wanted to know.
"Either they find these people and make them into Sith or kill them." Ben answered and Poe nodded.
"A Sith army of some kind." Finn added and he didn't like that. "We should jump start the holocron then, start tracking them, bring them to safety." It seemed easy, well and good but this piece of technology has been turned off for decades. And while Rey can maybe revive it, it was going to take time. But then it hit Ben.
"Rey, the names from the meeting." Ben blurted out and Rey typed up the meeting notes and the names appeared. She had started to cross check them herself and just like the Commonwealth they held no value such as political ties or military leaders. But then one came up and it showed that alien was deceased, he died just hours after the Commonwealth meeting. Two names Rey zeroed in on were located in Canto Bight but just then the HOLOnet popped up. The title scrolled passed they saying Canto Bight is overtaken by the Order.
"You think they've found future Jedi?" Leia asked and Ben felt it, he had no doubt. He looked to his mother and she can see the answer in his eyes. Just like Han, he may not say yes or no but you can read it in eyes. "Then to Canto Bight we will go."
"I want flight details and battle plans ready in one hour!" Poe took charge and the leaders began to take their post. Ben then looked to Rey, were they going to find more like them? Were they ready to even try and train them against the enemies, train them in the Force. Ben has trained Rey, she now carries the saber of a Master and he knows both ways of the light and dark. But is it enough.
Within the sewers Tamiri sat quietly with Kea feeling the need to sleep. It was hard to sleep though at times because you never know what will happen. As Kea's arms were around the little boy he looked up to her and she looked down at him.
"Tamiri?" She asked seeing something in his eyes, the look of fear. She then looked up, as did everyone else in the sewers. There was a huge thunder like sound. It shook the place; dust and pieces of the sewers fell from above. Kea and Tamiri stood up while Kea took out her blaster. Jatt came over to him and stood with the two.
"It's the Order." Jatt whispered, as everyone remained quiet and not moving. "We need to get out the sewers, we need to get out of this place." Jatt stated clearly. It was something they all wanted but it was easier said than done.
"Jedi," Tamiri whispered and Kea knelt before the child. "The Jedi and the Resistance." He then held up a ring he had on and showed the symbol of the Resistance. "They will come."
"They might," Jatt had a plan. "Maybe if we get some sort distress call out."
"The lighthouse," An alien creature spoke up. "It can send out a S.O.S." A plan started to form but that meant leaving the safety of the sewers and into the city. Jatt stood up tall knowing if they did nothing then nothing will happen and they call could die.
"I'll go." Jatt spoke up looking around as there were whispers. "I know all the back roads, alley ways, I can get there." He assured them as he waited for some kind of approval. Kea stood next to Jatt and her eyes begged him not go anywhere. "We have to try."
"I'll go with you." A deep voice rang out and a bigger man came through. "You'll need help." He then walked closer to Jatt holding out his hand. "Duney." He introduced himself.
"Jatt." Jatt introduced himself. "Ok, we leave at dusk." Duney nodded and now it was time arm themselves as dusk was upond them. Kea then walked to Jatt.
"They have to have this city surrounded." She stated making sure he knew of the danger.
"Kea, we can't stay down here forever. If we can call for help we all might have a better chance." Jatt stated his case. "Stay with Tamiri." It was more of an order rather than a suggestion. Jatt looked to the little boy and the boy sighed also showing some signs of disapproval. Jatt then looked to Kea again and started to walk away.
"Jatt," She went to him and he stood before them. She leaned in planting small kiss to his lips and then pulled away.
"I'm coming back for you." Jatt insisted and then left. He met up with Duney as they headed for the sewer tunnels. They walked through the grimy waters and the darkness.
"What's the fastest way there?" Duney asked.
"Once I know what part of town we're in I'll know." Jatt answered.
"How long have you been a slave here?" Duney was curious.
"Since I was a boy. My mother died and I just grew up in the streets." Jatt left out some details but that was pretty much it. Duney nodded looking a little sad for the kid. Then Jatt looked up seeing a sewer opening. He jumped up and pulled himself to look out from the drain. "It's clear." He started to climb out and Duney followed. The streets were quiet and the night was slowly settling in. The two came to the wall for cover hearing the TIE Fighters in the distance. "We're on the east side." Jatt whispered and Duney nodded.
"The lighthouse is just a few miles down that way." Duney added and Jatt nodded. "Straight and narrow as far as we can go." Jatt nodded in agreement and the two ran as quickly as they could. Some of the city had power, some of it was dark due to outages. Some people fled to the shadows, locked themselves up in their homes and others took to the sewers. Nothing seemed destroyed not yet at least. The two ran down the road but quickly turned a corner seeing Storm Troopers patrolling.
"This way," Jatt insisted and they went down a more narrow alley and continue that way. They came to a wall and started to climb. They got on some roofs but were still covered enough by the growing shadows and for some people their clothes were still out drying. They ran swiftly and then came to another alley way, went down and continued downwards through the city. They stopped again seeing a tank slowly rolling on the roads.
"Why are they even here?" Duney asked.
"I was told they're looking for something or someone." Jatt answered.
"Maybe it's Kylo Ren." Duney added.
"The king of Alderran?" Jatt asked.
"No, the son of Han Solo." Duney corrected him and the two were off. They stayed within the narrow alleyway. So far this was working but they knew not to lose focus. One wrong turn, wrong step then they will be captured or killed. Just then ahead they found the gates. Jatt then stopped and pulled up a sewer covering and they jumped in. They followed the flowing water and climbed out to the beach. The lighthouse was still on so at least they won't draw attention. They raced down the beach and to the stone structure. Duney got close to the door and with the small blaster fired at the lock and the door opened.
The two went inside and up the stairs running as fast as they could. They reached the top seeing the computers and Jatt got to one computer and started to type. Duney kept a look out making sure they were not followed and no one was coming. Jatt typed and pressed a key and sighed.
"That's it." Jatt informed Duney. "We wait and hopefully they pick up the signal." Duney nodded but the two were stuck in the tower for now. Out on the side of the city more TIEs were taking flight. And sitting over the city was still the huge Star Destroyer.
Out in space CC Solo, Star Dust, the medical freighter, three bombers and Blue, Black and Red Squadron pulled out of hyperspace.
"Admiral Rey, we just received a distress call." Poe informed Rey as he led blue squad. Ben was in his black X-Wing as Rey was on CC Solo and getting a map of the area pulled up.
"One Star Destroyer, dozens of ground troops and TIE Fighters." Rey informed everyone.
"All squads, flanking line, I want the bombers on the destroyer but I need Star Dust to lure it away from the city. Solo, give the squads cover." Ben gave the orders and everyone confirmed and agreed. "Finn, get your ground fighters down there as soon as you see a window.
"Got it." Finn answered.
"Alright, let's make a mess everyone." Poe announced and the Resistance took for Canto Bight.
In the lighthouse Jatt and Duney saw something within the faint distance of the ocean.
"Is that them?" Duney asked and Jatt smiled seeing a line of X-Wings flying to them. "How can they be that fast?"
"I don't know, but they're here." Jatt looked to Duney smiled. It was time to leave the lighthouse and start helping. The lead black X-Wing flew in first firing some random parts of the town to the Order's attention.
"They know we're here." Poe announced and Ben thrust his controls forwards and started to fire at the oncoming TIEs hitting every single one of them. He then spun still firing and was now over the town. On the beach Duney and Jatt saw that and both cheered. Then Star Dust appeared and started to fire on the Star Destroyer.
"We need to get as many people out!" Jatt informed Duney as they got back into the city. People were coming out to see what was happening knowing chaos was coming. "Get out of the city!" Jatt ordered.
Finn had his ground fighters landing on the beach and Rey emerged from them and looked up. The X-Wings and TIEs were fully engaged and Star Dust and the Destroyer were also fighting. She can see the Destroyer was taking the bait and slowly leaving the city.
"Ben, I'm going to need you on the ground." Rey stated to her COMM. She then saw one black X-Wing take out another TIE and then made it's way to the beach. It landed and Ben went to join up with her. The two headed for the city knowing that there was a blockade but it didn't scare them. From above Jatt could see Rey and Ben walking to the gates. He wanted to yell at them seeing Troopers getting ready to open fire. The Troopers then fired on the two.
Ben held up his hand, as did Rey and the blaster rays stopped dead in their tracks. The rest of the Resistance ground forces started to push their way in easily as the ground Troopers were distracted. Once the firing started to cease Rey and Ben ran towards the city and into the gates and looked around. Finn joined up with them.
"We'll go ahead." Rey stated and then took off and Ben followed her.
"Have fun storming the city!" Finn called out as the Resistance fighters went in.
The two then started to get attacked and Rey ignited one side of her saber and slid to the ground slicing her way through the Troopers. Ben ignited his saber jumped and slammed his way through a Trooper and killed another. Rey and Ben went back to back as they fought off more oncoming Troopers. Then a huge tank started down the street. It fired at them and they broke apart to take cover. Death Troopers were here as well.
"The medical frater is here." It was Poe. The Resistance was making it's way through the city and getting people into transports to the beach for safety. The tank fired again and both Rey and Ben waited across the street from one another was debris flew everywhere. They then glanced at one another communicating through the Force.
"Poe?" Rey asked to her wrist COMM.
"Yes Admiral?" Poe answered.
"Where's your squad?" She asked as debris kept firing while the tank kept the two from advancing. They won't have forever, as the Death Troopers will come after them.
"South side." Poe answered and Rey looked around wondering how she can signal their location for help. She then looked to Ben and then to her belt and pulled out a small flare.
"Ben and I are pinned by a tank, we need your support." Rey explained. "We'll have a flare."
"On our way." Poe confirmed and Rey grabbed the flare and slammed it against the wall igniting it. She tossed it up and Ben held up his hand to push it up higher. Within moments Poe and his squad were firing on the tank. Rey and Ben came out from behind the walls and started down the street. Ben ran to the tank and with the Force he managed to push it to the wall.
"It's getting dark out guys! We need to wrap this up." Finn came over the COMM. "Loading more transports now." Finn updated everyone. Rey and Ben looked around and it seemed this part of the street was empty; no one was here so they kept moving. Just then the two looked down the street seeing a young teen running to them.
"The sewers!" He yelled. "A lot of us are in the sewers."
"How many?" Ben asked and the teen shrugged.
"Most of the workers of the town." He answered. Getting them out of the sewers was going to present a task. Ben then brought his wrist COMM to him. "Finn?" He then waited while looking around making sure they were safe. All around them they could hear the battle.
"Yes, Solo," Finn responded and the teen's eyes widen. Rey noticed the look.
"Rey and I found out where most of the people, sewers." Ben started and the sound battle was getting closer. "I need at least half of the ground support," He then looked to the teen.
"Entrance is that way." He pointed and then Ben managed to find a number.
"Block forty five." Ben finished.
"We'll be there." Finn announced.
"Head east when you get here." Ben finished and then looked to the teen.
"You're Ben Solo aren't you?" The teen asked a little wide-eyed and had a slight smile. "And you," He turned to Rey. "You're Rey of Jakku, the Jedi." While the two would love to properly introduce themselves they were on a time crunch. "I'm, I'm Jatt by the way." Jatt introduced himself and then Ben blocked a random blaster ray, held out his hand and slammed the Trooper to the ground. "You're Jedi too." But the name both hit Rey and Ben.
"Jatt?" Ben asked and the teen nodded. Ben got closer to the boy as he needed to look straight up and realized just how big Ben was. "You stay close." Jatt wasn't sure what that meant but he nodded. Just then there was a low rumble.
"It's a tank." Jatt announced and Ben lightly grabbed the teen's shoulder pushing meaning they needed to leave. He started to lead them and Rey checked behind them making sure they were not being followed. They were getting to the quieter parts of the town as they followed Jatt. Then they came to a wall but Jatt knelt to the ground and pulled up on a rusty handle and opened a hatch leading into the sewers. There was a built in latter and he started to climb down. Ben made sure Rey was right behind Jatt as he kept watch. Ben then climbed in while closing the hatch and they down.
There was a low string of lights and it smelt like sewer for sure. They followed Jatt and came to another wall but it was a door. He opened it and inside were hundreds of people. Everyone looked up seeing the three of them.
"Jatt!" A voice called out as a young teen girl pushed her way through the crowds and the two young lovers hugged.
"It's them, it's the Resistance and the Jedi." Jatt told Kea and the room started to swell with a whisper. Then a little boy came over to Rey and Ben. Rey knelt before the boy and he smiled at her.
"I'm Tamiri." The little boy introduced himself and Rey looked up to Ben. They've found both of them. Just as the moment of hope came through it also passed as everyone looked up hearing the battle and feeling the place shake. Rey stood up and was thinking the same thing as Ben, how are they going to get all these people out of here?
"Jatt," Ben stepped forwards. "The way we came, is that the only way out of here?" He asked and Jatt nodded. That was going to be a problem trying to funnel all these people out. Ben sighed and looked to Rey wondering if she had an idea.
"We need to move fast." Rey stated and that was the only way.
"Finn, where are you?" Ben asked and Finn's voice came in a little choppy. But he was nearby. "Everyone, let's move!" Ben yelled and the hundred or so people started to file out. They didn't have a long time so they needed to be quick. The people ran down the sewers and to the latter. One by one they started to file out. Rey and Ben and helped usher them up and out. Rey was outside pulling people and keeping a watchful eye. Ben was still in the sewers making sure all were accounted for.
Just then the Resistance cruisers were rolling down the street but along with it were the sounds of war. Finn came out of one of the cruisers and started to help the people.
"How much time?" Rey asked and the look on Finn's face meant they had little. "Let's go!" Rey needed to hurry these people into the cruisers. Just then the sound of TIE Fighters were approaching. More people were crawling out of the sewers and they need to hurry. Rey ran to the sewer entrance and looked down seeing Ben. "TIE Fighters!" She warned him. Now Ben started to rush people. "Poe," Rey called to the pilot. "We need cover."
"Admiral, the Star Destroyer has placed out a distress call." It was Connix.
"How long?" Finn asked and they heard Chewie barking over the COMM. "Great," Finn sighed and ran to the entrance of the sewers and looked down. "Hey Ben!" He called out to him and Ben looked up. "Guess who's coming!" Just then half the squads of the X-wings flew overhead giving them cover. "Load them up! If you got a full cruiser get to the beach now!"
"Not to rain on the parade but you guys got tanks closing in." Poe informed them. "We'll make a straight path, can't keep it open forever though, sending the path now." The people were finally out all getting in. The TIE Fighters were here to as the fight continued. Ben looked for Jatt and Tamiri making sure they were together and safe.
"Let's move it!" Finn ordered and the first transports were away. Ben opened a door to another transport getting everyone in. Jatt started but then noticed within the chaos Kea was not near him.
"Kea!" He started back for her but something wasn't right. Ben looked around and the rumble started.
"Everyone get down!" Ben yelled and huge whistling noise could be heard. Everyone got down and there was an explosion. Ben looked around and saw Rey already getting more people into the cruisers as Poe's X-Wing fired on the tank. Ben saw Tamiri and he pulled the boy to another person forcing them into the cruiser. He then looked for Jatt and found the teen. He was the ground crawling to Kea and the young girl wasn't moving.
"Kea! Kea!" Jatt pulled the girl to him looking at her and she was still, blood stained her face and to the side of her head had a huge gash. "No! Kea!" Ben rushed to Jatt saw the girl. Ben knew this feeling all too well and his mind went back to that day he nearly lost Rey. And while you want to sit there do nothing you had to get up. Jatt and Tamiri were too important and they needed to leave.
"Jatt!" Ben had to the boy out. "Jatt!" The trans finally broke and Jatt looked to Ben.
"I'm not leaving her!" Jatt yelled and Ben looked to the boy. He could see himself in him; if it were him and Rey he wouldn't leave her either dead or alive. Ben pulled himself closer to Jatt as time was getting short.
"Jatt, look at me." Ben demanded but it wasn't harsh. "Look at me," Jatt finally did as Ben held out his hand calling a blaster from a dead Storm Trooper. "You're a solider now you understand me?" Ben brought the boy to the here and now. The war hasn't stopped and if Jatt doesn't get up he will die too. He handed the blaster to Jatt. There seemed to be an understanding and a connection between the two. "You aim at them understood, we're not leaving her." Ben assured the young man. Jatt wanted to cry but Ben could see the sorrow turning into anger. Jatt took hold of the blaster as Ben took Kea and gently lifted her into his arms. Jatt took aim at the on coming Troopers. Ben placed Kea gently to another person as Jatt did as he was ordered. The was boy on point aim probably for not ever firing a blaster.
Ben ignited his saber and blocked the oncoming rays while the last of the people got in. He made sure Rey got in along with Jatt then he got in. The cruisers headed for the beach as the X-Wings overhead escorted them making sure that enemy fighters stayed away. They headed for the beach and towards the medical frater to leave this planet. Ben saw Jatt making his way to Kea just to be near her. Rey had seen the entire moment and she could tell it hit Ben as well.
Once at the beach Ben stepped out first ushering the people to the medical frater. Jatt had Kea in his arms and raced to the frater. The people of Canto Bight were all over the beach running to the medical frater as the Resistance Fighters kept the Order at bay. Rey looked to Ben as he headed to his X-Wing and joined Poe in the air. Rey stayed on the ground making sure everyone got onboard.
"We're ready." It was Finn as Rey looked around seeing the beach was cleared and the frater started to take off. She went with Finn to the cruiser with more fighters and got in as they took off.
"Another Destroyer is exiting hyperspace now." Connix warned them as they went to CC Solo and boarded. The squads of X-Wings followed the major cruisers entering in just before taking off into lightspeed.
In the medical frater Jatt held onto Kea even though she was declared dead the moment she got there. Tamiri was with Jatt resting his head on the teen's shoulder. The two boys were quiet even with the chaos around them.
Within CC Solo Ben sat quietly as well and then it hit him. He looked to his hands seeing a little bit of blood on them, her blood. He didn't know what to feel though. He wanted to feel angry as more lives were taken but at the same time he didn't know these people. But it was called compassion, he was feeling compassion and it was a feeling that has ever slowly crept into him. Ben leaned back into the chair in silence and while he might have saved two future Jedi, how many more will die?
The fleet made back to base and there was still chaos as hundreds of people were still coming to terms with what had happened. Jatt left the frater but Kea stayed onboard with the rest of the dead and wounded. He took a seat on the ground feeling sick as reality was setting in and it will continue to do so. Tamiri then sat down next to him just to be there. Just then the two boys looked up seeing Ben walking to them. He should be helping but he was here instead.
"Why us?" Jatt asked and it was a honest question. Ben knelt down and had no answer.
"Jatt," Ben didn't know where to start. "I'm…I'm sorry." Jatt then looked up to Ben and Ben saw the tears threatening. Ben knew what it felt like and knew what Jatt was feeling.
"We didn't do anything wrong." Jatt was trying to understand and Tamiri leaned against Jatt. They didn't but if the names are correct and it's true then once more the Jedi were being hunted. But now these Jedi were vulnerable. They had no training, no help and no one to protect them. They will be killed without reason and Ben imagined most were children.
"No, you didn't, you did nothing…" Ben trailed off. He wanted to tell them but right was not it. These boys were in shock and it was clear they lost a friend. Not only did they lose a friend but they lost their home and their way of life. Now was not the time, now it was time to just to be there.
Ben stood on the hillside looking out to the ocean as the sun began to set again. While the Resistance managed to save people, others didn't make it. Ben squatted to the ground thinking he was still responsible for this. He was no longer with the Order but he could have been. It might have been him hunting down Jatt and Tamiri. It could have been him who killed the young boys. He might not be wielding the weapon now but at one point he started this.
Like Rey, they probably knew they had something, some special power and not knowing why. Something trigger it in Rey but will these two new possible Jedi accept what they are? There were more names on that list. Just then Ben turned around seeing Rey there. Their task of helping the Resistance and being king just got bigger. Rey walked closer to Ben and she stood next to him.
"How do we tell them?" Rey asked because there was no real or right way to do so.
"In a few days." Ben answered and sighed. "Give Jatt some time." Because the teen lost someone special to him and now was not the time to explain what he was. Rey got closer to Ben and then stood in front of him. She could feel pain from him, self doubt and regret.
"You didn't do this." She assured him and he nodded but she knew that wasn't convincing. "They're going to need us…we can't…" Rey paused. When they were back in the old temple they talked about reignited the Jedi Order but then again they were unsure how or even if they wanted to. Even Luke wanted the Jedi to cease because their own vanity and ignorance led to their downfall. History may not repeat itself but it will echo. But they couldn't just leave the boys out there either. And there are more. Ben's responsibilities felt like they were getting bigger. But then again he has Rey, he didn't need to do this alone.
Ben then held out his hand as a gesture and Rey looked to him. They could do this; they could restart the order, something that can live and something that could thrive. They could learn from the past and make it stronger. Rey reached out placing her hand to his letting him know just like on Snoke's ship in the throne room that she would follow. Ben pulled her closer and she rested her head on his chest. Things were getting both out of control but making more and more sense in it's own strange way. The light and the dark were unifying yet still pushing apart. The galaxy itself was pulling together and yet it was still on the brink of destruction. The final question is how can they fix it, how can they fix something that has been broken for years? And if they do fix it how long will that peace last?
A/N: I know it's been a while since the last post but life sometimes gets in the way. But here's the post. The chapter was a little hard to write because I didn't have a complete idea where I wanted it to go. It's not the strongest chapter but it does get the message out, Rey and Ben have future Force wielders to find and protect. So where is this all leading us? The Sith and Jedi are rising once more perhaps? Ben seems like he's still on that thin line, he's not for one side or the other it's mostly what Rey does and he follows. What's next? What did you like? Didn't like? What do you want to see? Let's discuss.
Thank you fro reading, following and commenting.