55.

Summary

Ahsoka and Rex reunite with their friends. Jinn teaches Maul Force-healing. Ahsoka and Rex meet Rey. Rey has a fight with Master Luke. Team Light prepare for the fight against the Sith. Rex and Ahsoka spend time together.

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Ahsoka and Rex found themselves on an island. The waves crashed against the rocks. It was early and the light was creeping over the horizon.

"Rex, over there."

He followed her gaze and put his helmet on and nodded his head. He used his scanners to get a better look. He saw a small village. It looked quiet. The inhabitants were probably still asleep.

"Let's go check it out."

The two quietly made their way into the village. The houses were small and made of stone. Then, the door opened and out stepped Ezra. The young man didn't notice them at first. He stretched out his arms over his head and yawned. He turned around to walk down a path but stopped when he saw them.

"Ahsoka! Rex!"

Ezra ran and hugged Togurta beauty and said, "You're here! How? When?"

She smiled and said, "It's good to see you too, Ezra. I'll explain later. Where is everyone?"

"Obi-Wan is asleep along with Master Luke snd Rey. Jinn and Maul went out to spar."

She raised her white marked brow and said, "Wait, did you say Master Luke?"

Ezra rubbed his head and said, "Yeah, Jinn said he's Anakin's son. He's also Jinn's adopted brother, but this is the second Master Luke I've met and he doesn't act like Jinn's Luke at all."

Ashoka smiled said, "I know travel between timelines can be confusing. Can you take us to Jinn and Maul?"

Ezra replied, "Oh, right. This way."

Rex could relate to the kid. Travel between timelines was more then confusing. It was an emotional pod race with lots of ups and downs. He felt fortunate that Ahsoka found him.

Though, he wasn't surprised that Jinn and Maul were up with the sun. He usually woke up early to exercise as well. It was part of staying in shape as a soldier. He knew Jinn well enough to know that he wasn't a slacker.

XXX

"Your forcing it. You have to guide the flow."

Ahsoka wondered over to see what they were doing. Maul had his hands over Jinn's up turned hand. He had a small cut in his palm. Blood dripped from the cut. Ahsoka realized that Jinn was teaching Maul how to Force-heal.

"You're not channeling the Force. You have to both channel and guide the Force."

Maul growled and said, "This is difficult. How am I supposed to do to two things at once? Can't I just use my power to heal you?"

Jinn said, "I told you, if you try healing someone seriously injured with your own power then it will drain you. If you use the Force around you then you won't put your own life at risk. Now, instead of thinking of healing as two acts, think of it as two steps. Channel and then guiding the Force for the body to heal."

Maul grumbled, "Fine, I'll try again but I don't see the point in learning to heal others."

Jinn smiled and said, "That's ironic coming from you."

"You didn't use the Force to heal me. It was a bacta tank."

"True, but healing allies will benefit you and will make you invaluable."

Ahsoka stepped forward and said, "I'm interested in learning as well."

The two stopped and turned to her. "Miss Tano, you're here." Jinn took her hand and kissed it and said, "I never doubted you, my dear."

Ahsoka smiled and closed the distance between them and gave him a hug. Jinn was such a wild card. She was glad he was on their side. She would never think to teach a Sith how to heal.

Jinn then turned to Rex and offered him his arm in greeting. "Captain, it's good to see you."

Rex grabbed his arm in greeting. "You too, Master Jinn. Master Maul."

The Sith hummed in acknowledgement. Maul had been sitting in on Ezra's lessons and had learned a great deal about channeling both the Darkness and the Light. The clashing Forces naturally repelled each other and the resting energy they gave off was astounding. It had the potential to give the wielder unlimited power. However, mastering control was the problem.

Though, he noticed that Lady Tano and her clone weren't the only ones watching them. He turned towards the rocks.

"Come out, girl. I know you're there."

Rey stepped out from her hiding place. She gave the Sith a wary look before rushing towards Jinn.

"Are you going to teach me to Force-heal too? And how many students do you have? I thought Ezra was your only student."

Jinn said, "I have many disciples, little one. Though, Master Maul isn't so much a student but rather a partner. I hope Miss Tano will officially become one of my partners as well."

Ahsoka raised her white marked brow and said, "What do you mean?"

He said, "After we deal with our Sith problem, I was hoping you'll help me build the New Order."

Maul scuffed and said, "Lady Tano is too young."

Ahsoka crossed her arms over her chest and said, "I maybe young but mentally I'm older than you. Like Jinn, Rex and I are from a different timeline."

Maul raised his brow. He hadn't expected that but it did explain her relationship with the others. She was granted far more respect than a normal Padawan.

Ahsoka turned to Jinn and said, "I'm flattered but we really should discuss this until after the Sith is defeated."

"As you wish, Miss Tano."

Ahsoka said. "Now that we're together, we should start planning for our attack."

Jinn said, "I'd like to teach everyone the basics of Force-healing first."

Ahsoka turned to the young woman curiously and said, "You seem to have a talent for picking up strays."

Offended, Rey glared at Ahsoka and said, "I'm not a stray."

Maul said, "Miss Rey is a new member of Jinn's Clan."

Ahsoka was shocked. "What?"

Jinn said, "Yes, Rey Kenobi, this is Ahsoka Tano, my friend and ally. And this is Captain Rex, he is by far the most honorable man I have ever met. "

Rex blushed under his helmet. He didn't think Jinn thought so highly of him. He knew Jinn was a good man but he didn't know him personally.

Ahsoka offered Rey her hand and said, "It's nice to meet you, Rey. Though, I am curious how Obi-Wan took to having another relative."

Jinn laughed and said, "Better than expected, Miss Tano."

Maul interrupted them and said, "Then we should head back to the others. We shouldn't waste time. The more time that passes, the stronger my former master becomes."

XXX

When Ahsoka and the others returned to the house, they saw Master Luke looking at the two new guests with suspicion.

He marched up to Jinn and said, "What the heck is this? Where are all these people coming from? And is that a storm trooper?"

Rex stepped forward and took off his helmet and said, "I'm no storm trooper. I'm a clone trooper. I'm Captain Rex of the 501st Legion of the Grand Army of the Republic. Skywalker was-is my general."

Master Luke frowned and said, "No offense, but shouldn't you be dead? I thought the clones had shorter life spans."

Rex shrugged and said, "I was an old man in my old life, but obviously the universe wasn't done with me yet."

Ahsoka winked at him and said, "I know I'm not. Where's Obi-Wan?"

Master Luke rubbed his face and the pointed to a mat and said, "He's over there."

Ahsoka bent down and shook him awake. "Master, wake up."

He groaned and muttered, "Not now, Padawan."

Ahsoka bit her bottom lip to stop herself from laughing.

Meanwhile, Maul sneered and crossed his arms over his chest and said to Jinn, "Am I such an after thought that my own nemesis can fall asleep in my presence?"

Jinn smiled and said, "No, but we both know you have enough honor not to kill a man in his sleep."

Unaware of the weight of his words, Master Luke turned away from them. He thought about how he had tried to kill his own nephew in his sleep because he feared he would turn. He knew his actions were what pushed him over the edge and into the Darkness.

Master Luke felt like an outsider in his own home. Jinn and his companions were good people. He envied their closeness. It reminded him of his friends. He stepped out of the house and turned his sights skyward and let out a sigh.

Rey followed him and said, "Aren't you going to join the meeting?"

With his back still turned away from her, he said, "What's the point? I'm not with them."

Rey awkwardly said, "Then why don't you come with us? There isn't anything keeping you here."

Master Luke replied, "I have to stay. There aren't anymore Jedi left but me."

Rey frowned and shook her head. She ran up to him and stood in front of him to face him.

"You aren't helping anyone by staying here. Not even yourself. Look, I know what it's like to be alone. I spent my whole life alone. I couldn't go anywhere, but you can. You just won't."

Master Luke tried calling her back, but it was too late. Rey was fuming and marched away from him.

XXX

Meanwhile, inside the meeting took place. Jinn started and said, "Now that we are all here, I think it would be a good idea if we all knew the basics of Force-healing and form bonds in case we get separated."

Maul said,"That is reasonable but I sincerely doubt anyone would want to bond with me."

Jinn said, "It's alright, Master Maul. I will bond with you."

Maul frowned and said,"Wouldn't that conflict with your relationship with Obi-Wan. I still intend to kill your cousin."

"As long as it's a fair match then I won't interfere. Unlike Obi-Wan, I have other plans for you."

Maul rolled his eyes and said, "If you mean running your rogue school of Jedi, then I'm not interested."

"Oh, I didn't realize you had something better to do."

Maul made a fist and said, "Yes! Revenge."

Jinn said, "Then, you can help me run my school after you're done with your revenge."

"What?"

"Well, what do you plan on doing after you get your revenge?"

"I-"

Maul was stumped. His revenge was all consuming. He had spent years trying to find and kill Kenobi. He became obsessed with it that the thought of his revenge being complete was unfathomable. He had considered gaining more power both personal and political. However, Master Jinn was already teaching him new ways of using the Force that were previously unknown to him. He knew if he stayed with him he would grow stronger.

Resigned, he released his fist and said, "Very well. I will continue to be your ally."

Jinn smiled and said, "Good. We should spar."

Maul said, "Perhaps after the meeting. Please continue with the meeting, Lady Tano."

Ahsoka raised her brow. She never thought Maul would be the one to keep them on task. Though, being single minded was his strong suit.

"Right, so I learned how to timeline travel with the help of my new allies. I used this bracelet with three stones infused with the Force to open a gateway."

Jinn rubbed his beard and said, "Where did you acquired these stone?"

Ahsoka said, "The Jedi Grand Master from another timeline gave them to me. He acquired them by infusing a collective of Force energy into three kyber crystals."

Obi-Wan said, "Yes, another version of Lady Thrice told me that three sacred objects can open a gateway without a nexus point. At the center of the three points, a person can direct the gateway by focusing on a bond."

Jinn added, "Time is irrelevant when it comes to traveling between timelines. Some timelines are faster and others are slower. The only measure of time you should consider is your own, for example Miss Tano. You've grown. You've obviously been misplaced longer than we have. From my perspective, it's been less than a week."

Ahsoke said, "Then, we should focus on reaching Sidious at the earliest time as possible. Do you know of any way we can do that?"

Jinn said, "Well, that will depends on Obi-Wan."

The Jedi Master was shocked and said, "Me? Why am I such an important factor in all this?"

Maul said, "It's obvious that you are the one with the strongest bond to Skywalker and he is with Sidious."

Ezra raised his hand and said, "Yeah, about that. What are we going to do when we see him? He's evil now, right?"

Ahsoka frowned and said, "He is following a dark path. I don't know if he is beyond saving, but our goal is to defeat Sidious. We can't afford to let anyone get in our way."

Jinn placed his hand on Ezra's shoulder and said, "Try maiming him first and if he won't stop then slay him."

He frowned at his mentor and said, "How can you say that so casually?"

Jinn said, "Those that live by the sword must be ready to die by the sword, Ezra. Skywalker is our responsibility. We owe it to him and others to make sure he doesn't hurt others or himself. To let him continue on his dark path, we are enabling him."

Obi-Wan reflected on Jinn's words. He knew that he was right. Anakin was his responsibility. He had failed to keep him safe from the Dark Side and Sidious' influence. He couldn't avoid him.

"I'll take care of Anakin. He's my responsibility."

Jinn said, "He maybe a sword you cannot fight."

Obi-Wan knew what Jinn meant. He already told him that his sword was one he couldn't fight out of love for his father. Obi-Wan felt awkward. He wasn't Jinn's father. He didn't deserve his love. Yet, Jinn continued to treat him with the kindness and care of a family member.

"I know what you're trying to do, but you're right. I have to take responsibility for what has happened to Anakin."

Ahsoka nodded her head and said, "Good, but you aren't alone in this. When we fight, we fight together. Now, let's work on those bonds. Jinn please continue to work with Maul. Ezra, please work with Rey."

Maul said, "What about your Captain, Lady Tano? Out of us, he isn't Force sensitive."

Ahsoka said, "Don't worry. I have a plan."

XXX

After the meeting, the group split up to work on their bonds and healing skills. Meanwhile, Rex followed Ahsoka into the caves.

"So, what's your plan?"

"What?"

"What's your plan to create a bond with me? I didn't think something like that was even possible for a clone."

"I don't really have a plan. I thought we could try to form a bond and go from there."

Ahsoka removed her fancy combat suit and revealed her Jedi attire underneath. Rex couldn't help but stare at her as she took off the outer layer of clothes.

She caught his eye and smiles. He blushed and turned around. He spoke to her over his shoulder.

"Ahsoka, this plan of yours might not work. Do you think Jinn or Obi-Wan might know a work around?"

"I'm surprised Obi-Wan didn't object to us all forming bonds."

"He's being practical. You could always give me a scar like Maul got from Jinn. I don't get it, but that seemed to work."

"That worked because Maul has strong emotions about his injuries. Besides, I don't want to hurt my boyfriend. You can turn around now."

Rex turned and saw that Ahsoka had neatly folded her suit and she was seated on the floor. He joined her and sh e motioned for him to sit in front of her.

"Here, take my hands. I'm going to try and form a bind with you."

Rex placed his larger hands in Ahsoka's and closed his eyes. He didn't know what to expect, but soon he felt a presence creeping into his mind. He gasped and released her hands.

"Sorry, it's just that the last time someone tried going inside my head it wasn't very nice."

She smiled reassuringly and said, "It's OK. I know you're talking about the Ventress we know, but she isn't here. I'm not going to hurt you."

Rex rubbed his head and said, "I know, but isn't easy."

Ahsoka said, "How about a different strategy?"

He gave her a suspicious look and asked, "What kind of strategy?"

"I'll distract you."

"I don't see how you can distract me to the point where I wouldn't notice you entering my mind."

She got up and sat on his lap and wrap her arms around his neck and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

"Really? How about now?"

Rex was startled and exclaimed, "Ahsoka!"

She laughed and stared to nuzzle him and whispered into his ear, "I missed you."

Her breathe tickled his ear and made his heart pound inside his armor.

He gazed intonher beautiful blue eyes and said. "I missed you too, cyar'ika."

He placed his hand on her cheek and closed the distance between them and gave her a kiss. One kiss turned into two and then into three. The third kiss was deep and passionate. It left them both breathless.

Ahsoka felt her heart was racing. She and Rex had kissed a few times and explored each, but they had agreed not to cross the line till her body turned 16. It was frustrating since she was mentally already an adult.

Back in her original timeline, Rex didn't have the cure for accelerated aging. He had the body of a man twice his age. His body was wore eventhough she was 4 years older than him. Even now, their physical ages didn't match. Yet, she couldn't help but admire his body.

He was fit and lean. His lips were soft but his body was hard. She wanted him. She wanted to feel just how soft and hard he could be.

She gave him a predatory look with her blue eyes. Rex's eyes were half closed and dazed from their kiss. She felt his breath on her skin and could smell his masculine scent. Her body grew tight with anticipation.

"Rex."

He met her gaze and saw the fire in her eyes. He searched her eyes and waited for her next move.

Though, Ahsoka didn't know what to tell him. Her captain was an honorable man. He would keep his word and wait for her body to mature. She loved him for it, but right now she hated him for being so frustratingly handsome.

She decided now was the time to reach out to him through the Force. She gently leaned forward and pressed her forehead against his. He closed his eyes and did the same.

He then felt something warm reach inside him. It felt weird. It wasn't anything physical but he knew it was her so he let the warmth wash over him.

/"Rex."/

This time, he heard her inside his head. He opened his eyes and saw her staring at him.

/"Rex, can you hear me?"/

Rex frowned and said, "Yeah, but your lips aren't moving."

She smiled.

/"I'm talking to you through the Force."/

"Does this mean we're bonded?"

She shook her head and said out loud, "No, but it's a step forward. How about we try creating a bond and see if it works?"

"Alright."

Rex had to admit that having Ahsoka inside his head was a more pleasant experience than Ventress. He closed his eyes and waited for the feeling of Ahsoka being in his head.

She surprised him by taking his hands. She smiled at him and said, "Here, let's meditate together."

Rex took her hands. He had meditated before. It helped clear his mind but some times it didn't always work. Yet, Ahsoka's touch was light and welcoming. He felt her in his mind. He didn't panic. He let her in and he felt her pull something inside him. It wasn't painful. He felt like she was drawing him in.

"I don't think I can create a bond between us."

Rex opened his eyes and saw that Ahsoka looked drained.

"I think I'll ask Jinn if he has any ideas."

"Alright, but if we get separated, bond or no bond, I'll find you, Soka. Nothing can keep us a part."

Ahsoka smiled and reached up to caress his cheek.

"I feel the same way."

Rex held her hand on his face. He turned his head and kissed her palm. Ahsoka blushed and dropped her gaze.

She then smiled and said, "There's one good thing about us being apart."

Confused, Rex said, "Really? What?"

"My body is a year older, so we don't have to wait as long to be intimate."

Rex's eyed wided in shock. He blushed and looked away.

"Yeah, that's-that's good, but I would rather spend that time with you, cyar'ika."

She placed her hand over his and leaned forward to kiss him. Her heart was fluttering inside her chest because of his words.

"You're one in a million, Rex."

He gave her a pointed look and said, "I actually am, Soka."

"Yeah, but you're the only one that's my boyfriend."

Ahsoka got up and took a step towards they way they came, but Rex caught her wrist.

"Where are you going?"

"To work on my Force healing with the others."

Rex gave her a cunning smile and said, "Not so fast, cyar'ika. I still think we got some catching up to do."

Ahsoka saw the mischief in Rex's brown eyes and returned his smile.

"I think you're right, Captain."

Rex raised his brow and drew her back into his arms and said, "Titles? I thought we were long past that, Soka."

She grinned and said, "Oh, we are but I wouldn't mind listening to your instructions, Captain."

Ahsoka wrapped her arms around his neck and used her small sharp teeth to graze his skin. Rex shivered. She was playing a dangerous game.

"Now, now, cyar'ika. If you bite then I'll have to bite you back."

She nuzzled him and himmed, "Mmm, I'd like that."

Rex felt his blood boil with desire. He got up and pulled her to her feet and said, "Let's go find somewhere private, Commander."

XXX

TBC

XXX

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