From orbit, Raada seemed unchanged from when Ahsoka had last visited. The farming moon was visibly intact, unlike many of the worlds under imperial oppression.
But on the surface, Ahsoka knew it would be a very different story.
The empire had come to Raada to exploit it, to ruin it.
Once, the moon was home to a small group of settlers, pioneers who dreamed of a simple life.
Now, it was practically lifeless.
And it had all been Ahsoka's fault. She had drawn the empire there, drawn an Inquisitor to the planet, and in doing so she had practically destroyed the moon overnight. The land was poisoned, corrupted so that nothing could grow. Martial law had gone into effect, a curfew leading to several arrests.
And there had been a lot of death too, many of which were friends of the Larte sisters.
In truth, Ahsoka had been lucky to get anyone out alive that day. Furthermore, it was a miracle that either Kaeden or Miara were still speaking to her afterwards.
And now, a simple farming moon that had helped to direct her course was once again going to play a pivotal role in a coming battle.
Directing the freighter down towards the series of rocks and caves the team had agreed to meet in, Ahsoka glanced over at Kaeden. The dark-skinned woman was watching out the window, analysing the surface… remembering what had happened.
Internally, Ahsoka felt a wave of guilt come over her. No matter what Kaeden said, it had been Ahsoka's fault, nothing could change that.
"It doesn't look any different. I thought that perhaps…" Kaeden spoke in a whisper.
Reaching across to place a hand on Kaeden's shoulder, Ahsoka squeezed it in comfort.
War could change many things about a planet, as well as a person. Some of those were not visible to the naked eye.
Angling the freighter downwards, Ahsoka settled it into a landing position next to the rock formation.
"Time to go and set up shop I guess." Kaeden quipped from beside the Togruta, leaving her seat and taking the lead.
Ahsoka allowed a small smile to come to her face, before moving to follow.
Stepping outside onto Raada's surface, Ahsoka was struck by a sense of familiarity.
In a weird way, it was good to be back.
Glancing over at Kaeden, who was heading over to the cave entrance, Ahsoka made to follow.
What was once a series of traps and triggers, designed to warn and stop any unwelcome party from entering was now nothing more than worn out tech. The vast majority of the cave system had collapsed when the Sixth Brother had attacked, but a large central chamber remained intact. It would be large enough to house the team when they assembled.
Moving through the dark tunnels that led to the central chamber, the two women finally emerged.
It was dark, as were most caves, the only light coming through a small crack in the roof, as well as from the torches being carried by Ahsoka and Kaeden.
With humour in her voice, Kaeden spoke. "Can't say I've missed this place too much."
Ahsoka chuckled, moving to stand beside her friend.
They still had yet to properly talk about what had happened between them. Ahsoka knew she was stalling on purpose, and was fairly sure that Kaeden knew that.
"Now we just wait for someone else to arrive." Ahsoka spoke, moving to sit on the floor under the beam of light coming through the roof.
Kaeden moved to follow, taking the place by Ahsoka's side.
The two sat in silence for a few minutes, both contemplating what was soon to come.
For both, this could be the last time they ever really saw each other. If this suicide mission really turned out to be a suicide mission…
Internally, Ahsoka felt grief, finding that she didn't want to leave Kaeden.
But by this point she was committed to the mission.
She would end Sidious and the superweapon.
Or she would die trying.
"Ahsoka, I need to tell you something." Kaeden interrupted the quiet. Normally, Ahsoka would have been annoyed, knowing what was coming next. But after everything, Ahsoka felt like she owed the human something.
"Go ahead Kaeden."
Kaeden moved from her position beside Ahsoka, moving to sit in front on her.
Ahsoka could tell that Kaeden was nervous, evident by the visible twitching of her eyes, and erratic hand gestures.
Reaching her own orange skinned hand out, Ahsoka gently clasped Kaeden's in her own.
"Relax. You can tell me anything Kaeden."
Kaeden gulped nervously, and then began to speak timidly.
"You know I care about you Ahsoka, and I know you are reluctant to pursue anything. But I just want you to know that I'm willing to wait, and that I'm here for you, regardless of what happens."
Ahsoka listened, and in doing so she felt warm inside, like she believed every word that Kaeden was telling her.
Her experience should tell her otherwise, that it was unwise to get close to people.
But despite everything, the force seemed to sing to Ahsoka whenever Kaeden was around, as if it was telling her to trust Kaeden.
And Ahsoka did, she really did.
Kaeden then continued, marginally more confident than before.
"And I know you are going on a suicide mission and all, but if you come back, when you come back, I'd like to take you out somewhere, just you and me. What do you say?"
Ahsoka allowed a bright smile to come to her face. Not one of mocking, nor one of teasing, but a genuine one.
Despite everything that had gone wrong in her life, Ahsoka decided to follow her instincts.
Still gripping Kaeden's hand in her own, Ahsoka squeezed once again before replying.
"I'd like that Kaeden."
Kaeden's eyes bulged dramatically, as if honestly surprised by Ahsoka's response.
Ahsoka had to refrain from laughing.
"You would?! You would! Oh, great, excellent. I mean wonderful, I, um?"
Kaeden was quite clearly flustered by Ahsoka's admission. Squeezing the dark-skinned hand again, Ahsoka merely smiled, before pulling the human into a hug.
Both women embraced one another for a few minutes, enjoying the feeling of being in close contact with each other.
Ahsoka would admit that she wasn't fully comfortable with the shift just yet. That would take time.
But she was willing to adapt. Kaeden was worth it.
Pulling out of the embrace, Ahsoka decided to ignore her discomfort, and leaned her face forwards, placing a light kiss on Kaeden's cheek, who blushed at the gesture.
Pulling back, both woman made eye contact, smiles on their faces as they simply stared at each other.
"Oh kriffing finally! Do you know how many credits you've gone and cost me with this nonsense?"
Both Kaeden and Ahsoka pulled away from one another instantly, both embarrassed as they sought out the origin of the voice that had interrupted them.
Lifting her torch up to illuminate the area, Ahsoka recognized the figure.
Kaeden clearly did too.
"Miara! When did you get here?"
Miara Larte strode forward, moving to embrace her older sister.
"Just a minute ago. The rest of our little group is outside. I told them I'd look inside to see if you were here. Probably should have waited though huh?" Miara replied, a teasing tone in her voice.
Again, Kaeden blushed at her sister's implication.
Ahsoka chose that moment to speak up. "You said the others are outside?"
Miara nodded, a rogue smile on her face, clearly enjoying the situation.
"Yeah, Hera and Kallus are outside, along with some others. Come on, let's go get them."
Exiting back into the sunlight of Raada, Ahsoka was surprised to see the Ghost had undergone some series modifications to its design. It now clearly possessed the large weapons of the TIE Defender they had captured, as well as a laser cannon of some kind.
Ahsoka could only wonder what else had been done to the ship.
"Hey, you're here." A voice that Ahsoka recognized as Kallus sounded out. Ahsoka turned to see her friend approach, a smile on his face. The tow clasped hands briefly, before turning to greet the others as they approached.
Ahsoka spotted Cassian and K-2, who both waved at her with enthusiasm, as well as AP5, who nodded his respect, one that Ahsoka returned.
Then Hera approached, with another Twi-lek behind her. This one was male, and older by the look of it. A different colour too, orange rather than green.
He looked familiar to Ahsoka, as if they had met before.
"Commander Tano, a pleasure to see you again. Cham Syndulla, at your service." The orange Twi-lek spoke, his accented voice now giving away his identity.
Ahsoka remembered him now. He was a living legend, both of the clone war, and the growing rebellion.
Reaching her hand out to the elder Syndulla, Ahsoka spoke.
"Good to see you again General Syndulla. It's been a long time since Ryloth."
Cham chuckled, whilst gripping Ahsoka's hand and shaking it in response.
"Indeed it had young one. I hear you re taking on the emperor. Quite the step up from commanding a fighter squadron."
Ahsoka smiled, remembering the Ryloth campaign from her youth.
"Someone has to do it."
Cham laughed again at Ahsoka's response, before stepping in beside Hera.
"We the first here then?" Hera inquired, looking around for anyone else.
Ahsoka nodded. They still had to wait for the others.
"We'll camp in the cave tonight, and head out in the morning." Kallus spoke, gesturing towards the cave entrance.
Ahsoka glanced over to see Cassian and the droids moving various crates from the Ghost and into the cave network. Clearly they were planning to set up shop.
"Soooo, place your bets then. Who's gonna show up next?" Miara quipped, joining the group with Kaeden.
It was Hera that spoke first, humour in her voice, surprising everyone.
"It won't be Ezra. He's always late."
The assembled group chuckled at the comment. It was rare for Hera to make a funny.
Suddenly, Ahsoka's montrals picked up a sound of a ship above. Glancing upwards, Ahsoka was pleased the see the familiar shape of the Phantom descend towards them.
'That answered that question then.' Ahsoka thought.
As the Phantom landed before the assembled group, it was Hera that seemed to be most anticipating the ships arrival.
Seconds later, the ramp to the rear of the ship descended, and the bay doors opened, revealing several figures.
First down the ramp was Zeb, who upon seeing the others bounded down the ramp, a bright smile on his face.
Kallus was the first to greet the Lasat, the two exchanging some sort of secret handshake the likes of which Ahsoka had never seen before.
Next down the ramp was Kanan, who despite not possessing sight, immediately moved to Hera's waiting side.
Ahsoka watched as the Jedi Knight and the Twi-lek pilot embraced briefly. Clearly they had missed each other, and Ahsoka couldn't blame them.
Nor would she fault them, not after what had happened with Kaeden in the cave a few moments ago.
"How's it going?" Kanan inquired, cheer in his voice.
Expecting Hera to be the one that replied, Kanan was clearly surprised when he heard a different voice reply, one he recognized instantly, judging by the way the Jedi stiffened in surprise and embarrassment.
"Very well Master Jedi. How goes things for you?"
Kanan coughed a few times, stepping away from Hera as if he was scared of something.
His face was one of a mortified expression, as if he had just been caught doing something he shouldn't.
"General Syndulla, sir, I, uh, didn't realize you were here."
Practically everyone was trying to hold in their laughter, even Cham, as Kanan tried in vain to cover up the brief intimate moment with Hera.
"I wanted to assist my daughter, is that ok?" Cham regained his composure, putting on a strict façade, attempting to further embarrass Kanan.
"Good, that's good. Glad you're here." Kanan's voice reached a higher pitch that Ahsoka thought possible. Beside her, Kaeden laughed aloud.
It was then that three more figures descended down the ramp of the Phantom.
Ahsoka turned to observe the approaching figures. Two she recognized, but the third she did not.
Hera chose that moment to speak, joy in her voice.
"Sabine! You came!"
Sabine Wren moved forward, a wide smile also present on her face. Through the force, Ahsoka could feel joy radiating off of the Mandalorian.
"Couldn't leave my second family to go on a mission such as this without me." Sabine replied, before glancing over at Ahsoka and nodding.
The second figure that Ahsoka recognized was Fenn Rau, who immediately moved the join Kanan and Cham as they talked, trading stories.
One Mandalorian was a dangerous threat. Two would be a nightmare even for a Jedi.
So when Ahsoka glanced at the figure she didn't recognize and saw yet another heavily armoured Mandalorian, Ahsoka almost felt pity for the empire.
Almost.
Sabine chose that moment to introduce the other Mandalorian present.
"Guys, this is my brother, Tristan Wren. Tristan, this is Hera Syndulla," Sabine spoke, indicating towards the Twi-lek first, before shifting the gesture to Ahsoka, "And that is Ahsoka Tano. From what Kanan said, she's the one leading this suicidal mission."
Internally Ahsoka winced at yet another reminder that this might be the last day of their lives.
Why was she willing to make them risk everything for her again?
Tristan nodded, offering his hand to Hera and Ahsoka in turn.
"Pleasure. I'm always willing to help those in need. If Sabine says we can do it, then I believe her." Tristan spoke, a serious tone in his voice. Just from that, Ahsoka could tell that he was the more serious sibling of Clan Wren.
"Well I welcome any and all help I can get. This is going to be one hell of a mountain to overcome." Ahsoka replied, humour in her voice.
Tristan smiled before replying. "Between several Jedi and Mandalorians, as well as various other combat specialists, we can't lose."
"Let's hope so." Sabine interrupted, a grim look on her face.
A few more minutes passed after the arrival of the Phantom and its passengers, and the various members of the team had gone to do different things.
The Mandalorians had headed inside the cave, carrying various crates they had picked up in the journey, accompanied by Hera, her father and Kallus.
That just left the Larte sisters, Kanan, Zeb and Ahsoka outside to keep watch for any new arrivals.
The small group chatted briefly about what they had done since separating on Yavin Four. They had all had varying degrees of success when it came to recruitment.
Ahsoka was careful not to reveal too much about the fact that both Obi-Wan and Yoda would be joining them.
To be truthful, she wasn't ever sure they would actually show up, so rather than get the hopes of the team up, she kept quiet.
The discussion soon turned into harmless teasing however, as Miara began to pick apart Kanan's reaction to Cham Syndulla's presence, much to the annoyance of the Jedi Knight.
It was shortly after that that the next arrival occurred, this one flying a ship that sent nostalgia coursing through Ahsoka's veins.
Zeb noticed the ship second, lifting a hand to point towards it as it descended, confusion in his voice.
"Is that an old republic gunship? Who's flying that?"
Ahsoka didn't even have to guess. Of all the things he had chosen to arrive in, it would be something that old.
'Just like him then.' Ahsoka thought grimly.
As the clearly heavily modified LAAT gunship set down before the rebels, Ahsoka braced herself for the reunion.
The side hatch opened, and out stepped three figures, each dressed in old worn out clone armour, each possessing the same yet different face.
When they saw Ahsoka, they marched on up to her, standing in a line before the Togruta.
Silence passed for a few seconds, before all three clones snapped into a salute simultaneously.
Needless to say, Ahsoka immediately reciprocated.
"Captain Rex reporting for duty Commander Tano."
"Commander Wolffe ready for assignment Commander."
"Commander Gregor ready and waiting Commander. Point me in the direction of those clankers, I mean imperials."
Ahsoka allowed a smile to come to her face before responding.
"Good to have you here troopers. We couldn't do this without you."
It was Gregor that replied, his voice as energetic as usual.
"Damn straight you couldn't."
The clones seemed to settle in with the group relatively easily. With them they had brought several crates of munitions, all of which would be incredibly useful in punching a hole in the imperials.
And they were legendary fighters in themselves, surviving the clone war when many had not.
Ahsoka was glad to have them by her side.
Whilst Wolffe and Gregor had headed deeper into the cave to greet everyone, Rex had opted to remain outside with Ahsoka and the others, catching up on what they had missed. Ahsoka quietly filled Rex in on her meeting with Saw Gerrerra and how he had agreed to join the mission.
Rex had voiced some concern, knowing that the crew of the Ghost was not exactly fond of Saw, but also knowing that he would be vital to their success. Very few people hated the empire as much as Saw Gerrerra did, and they would need that anger to be successful.
Not long after the arrival of the clones, the majority of the team had headed inside, leaving only Ahsoka, Rex, Kaeden, Kanan and Hera to watch for new arrivals.
It was then that the sounds of another ship approaching reached Ahsoka's montrals.
Looking up, Ahsoka spotted a freighter of some kind descending on their position, one that screamed 'pirate'.
'Who could this be?'
The group watched as the ship landed next to the various other ships assembled, the back ramp lowering and the rear doors opening.
A tall man dressed in white came down the ramp first, spotting the assembled group and smiling at the sight of them. Ahsoka didn't recognize him, but it was clear that Hera and Kanan did.
"Ryder! You made it." Kanan called out.
"Kanan. Hera. It's good to see you two again." The man, who Ahsoka could now identify as Ryder Azadi, replied, shaking hands with the Jedi and Twi-lek in greeting, before turning to face Ahsoka.
His eyes seemed to study her for a few seconds, as if judging her, before he presented his hand to her too.
"You must be Ahsoka, Ezra's told me all about you. Ryder Azadi. I hear you need help toppling the empire."
Ryder's voice was full of humour at the mention of toppling the empire. Despite the grave situation they found themselves in, it was good to know the team was in high spirits.
"Pleasure to finally meet you Governor Azadi. You've done good work on Lothal." Ahsoka replied, shaking the offered hand.
Ryder nodded, before gesturing behind him back to the ship.
"Ezra and Chopper will be along in a minute, they are just helping sort of the explosives we acquired."
So they had got something of use as well, excellent. Hopefully Sabine would be able to rig up something big for the mission.
It was then that Ezra approached the group, having evidently snuck towards them when no one was looking. He had a sheepish look on his face, as if he was guilty of something.
And judging by the way Chopper was beeping profanities at him from beside the young Jedi, Ahsoka could only hope to imagine what Ezra had done.
"Hey guys, so, um. Don't be mad, but I managed to pick up some extra help along the way." Ezra spoke, his voice jumping between volumes, suggesting that he was expecting a bad outcome.
Allowing a smirk to come to her face, Ahsoka had to resist the urge to laugh at Ezra. The young boy was known for getting into crazy antics, often leading to all sorts of trouble. In her youth, Ahsoka had been similar. She regarded the way that both Kanan and Hera's shoulders slumped with fondness, remembering the numerous times in the past when the same had happened with Anakin and Obi-Wan.
"Ezra? Didn't you leave in an A-wing? What happened to your ship?" Hera put on her stern voice, clearly acting both motherly and commandingly at the same time.
"Fighter got destroyed. But we got a new ship. Just don't be too mad about whose it is." Ezra replied, a hand reaching back to scratch his head awkwardly.
"Ezra, what have you done?" Kanan asked slowly, trepidation in his voice.
From where she was standing, Ahsoka watched as the small family interacted, part of her feeling remorse, another part of her joy. She had lost this before, and she didn't want to think about the fact that they might do too.
Still, she watched with enjoyment as Ezra tried to explain himself, only to land himself in hot water more and more.
'Surely whoever Ezra roped into this won't upset people more than Saw Gerrerra?' Ahsoka thought.
Seconds later, she ate her own words.
"My friends, my friends! It is I, Hondo!"
Any smile that had been on Ahsoka's face dropped off instantly at the sound of the familiar voice. It may have been close to two decades since she last saw him, but the voice of Hondo Ohnaka hadn't changed one bit.
Clearly, the other members felt the same as her when Hondo appeared.
"Oh kriff no!"
"Seriously Ezra?"
"I must have been horrifyingly cruel to people in a previous life to deserve this!"
Despite the outburst from Rex, Hera and Kanan, Hondo flaunted over the where the group was, a cheeky smile on his face.
As he approached them, he looped his arm behind Ezra's head, resting it on his shoulders before addressing the team.
"Captain Syndulla, how wonderful to be working with you again! Young Ezra here says you have a dangerous mission that you specifically needed Hondo for. How thoughtful of you."
Ahsoka watched as Hera rolled her eyes, before mumbling a greeting to Hondo.
Hondo then turned to Kanan. "And Master Jedi, how good to see you agai… oh right sorry, the eye thing. My bad!"
Ahsoka half expected Kanan to storm off at the accidental mention of his blindness, but the Jedi Knight remained motionless, not allowing it to grate at him.
Ahsoka admired that.
Hondo then turned to Kaeden, who was watching Hondo with bemusement.
"And who is this wonderful person, my, my, I don't think we have met. Hondo Ohnaka, at your service."
Kaeden clearly didn't appreciate the way Hondo was being so forceful, as a slight look of disgust covered her face as the Weequay tried to get closer to her.
Internally, Ahsoka felt something build inside of her. What was that?
Pushing whatever the feeling was inside her away for now, Ahsoka tried to get Hondo's attention off of Kaeden.
"Leave her alone Hondo!"
The old Weequay pirate clearly recognized the voice, as he slowly turned from Kaeden to look at Ahsoka. His eyes studied her for a moment, as if he was trying to put together some sort of complicated puzzle.
"Ahsoka Tano? Is that you my old friend?"
Ahsoka said nothing, merely nodding instead, not trusting her words. The last time they had met didn't turn out so well.
Suddenly, a fire lit up in Hondo's eyes, and his overbearing demeanour returned.
"Ahsoka! It is you! My, my look how you have grown. I'm so proud and happy to know one of my Jedi friends survived! How did you get so tall? Oh, imagine how much I could get for you on the black market now?"
What happened next surprise everyone present, except maybe Rex. At Hondo's mention of selling Ahsoka as a pleasure slave, the Togruta launched her fist out, leading to it connecting with the Weequay's rough face, and sending him back clutching it in pain and surprise.
It was Kaeden that called out in concern first. "Ahsoka, what was that for?"
Ahsoka didn't reply, instead she maintained her stance as Hondo picked himself up. He would be useful to the mission, but she didn't want him along if he was just going to antagonize people.
After rubbing his cheek for a few moments where Ahsoka's fist had connected, the Weequay faced Ahsoka again, the same mischievous look as before still present in his eyes.
Despite the look, his tone was more reserved when he spoke.
"Ok, still mad about that I guess. Sorry. But I am so glad to see you my friend. I hear you need help taking down the empire?"
Ahsoka nodded again before speaking. "That's right, we do. If you want to help, I'd welcome your expertise. Otherwise, get lost Hondo."
Hondo's face lost any excitable look about it, seriousness setting in. It was a look that Ahsoka had never seen on the Weequay's face before.
"I want to help you Ahsoka. You saved my life the last time we met, even when you didn't have to. This old pirate wants to return the gesture today."
Ahsoka was honestly surprised that Hondo Ohnaka would ever want to do something out of the kindness of his own heart, much less for her. But she didn't argue the fact. If he was willing to join and assist, then she would welcome him with open arms.
"All right Hondo. You can help. But no betraying anyone!"
Hondo practically bounced in glee.
Shortly after arriving, Hondo had helped shift some more crates into the cave network, giving Ahsoka some space away from the old pirate. She only hoped the others inside the cave were not struggling with him too much.
Ezra had also headed inside, eager to catch up with Sabine and Zeb.
So once again it was only Ahsoka, with Kaeden and Rex on one side of her, and Kanan and Hera on the other.
Not that she minded all that much.
The skies of Raada were slowly beginning to darken, suggesting that night was on the way. If anyone else was to arrive they would have to do so soon in order to not get lost in the night.
It was then that a U-wing fly overhead, before flying round to land with the assortment of ships that were already present.
Saw was here.
Standing from where she had been sitting, Ahsoka waited for the familiar figure of Saw Gerrerra to appear, before waving him over. Beside her, Rex stood, also awaiting the arrival of his friend.
"Commander Tano, so good to see you again. You as well Captain Rex." Saw spoke when he was within earshot, trading a gesture with Rex in a sign of mutual respects, before clasping Ahsoka on the shoulder lightly.
"Glad you could make it Saw." Ahsoka replied, a smile on her face. Even if he was overly aggressive and reckless, Saw would make a fine addition to the team.
Saw nodded again, before his gaze shifted over to Kanan and Hera, who had been standing at a distance.
Through the force, Ahsoka could feel Kanan's dislike of the man, as well as Hera's reluctance to work with him.
By whether they liked it or not, they would need Saw.
"Master Jedi, Captain Syndulla. Nice to see you again." Saw spoke, offering nothing but respect for them. It was clear that after what had happened on Geonosis, the crew of the Ghost was one of the few rebel groups he actually liked.
"Gerrerra. How's things?" Hera spoke first, maintaining her professionalism despite the uncomfortable situation.
"Going good captain, thanks for asking. How's the team?"
Hera seemed surprised at Saw's enquiry. Ahsoka was not. She knew Saw. He cared, just in a roundabout way.
"Fine thanks. Getting some rest before tomorrow." Hera replied.
Saw nodded, a simple smile on his face.
"Sounds like a good idea."
Just then, the sounds of another ship sailing overhead, before moving into landing came to Ahsoka's montrals. The Togruta turned in time to recognize the shape of the Nightbrother as it settled beside the heavily upgraded Ghost.
Ahsoka steeled herself for what was about to come. Obi-Wan joining them would be one thing. But Yoda as well?
How was she going to explain this?
Taking a deep breath, Ahsoka delved into the force for support. Even then, she could pick up the extraordinarily powerful signatures of both Kenobi and Yoda, contrasting by the darker one of Maul.
Clearly, someone else had sensed it too, as Ezra came out of the cave, a confused look on his face.
"What's going on? I sense something strange."
Kanan clearly was feeling the same. "Yeah, me too. Ahsoka, who is that with Maul?"
Opening the eyes she didn't even realize she had closed, Ahsoka looked up to see Maul approaching, two figures behind him. One was clearly Obi-Wan, and the other Yoda.
Maul then called out as he approached.
"Sorry I am late Lady Tano, but my ship had technical difficulties."
Ahsoka was about to respond and tell him to not worry, when another voice called out with humour.
"Not technical difficulties they were, but mud clogging some circuits. Cleaned now, they are."
Ahsoka nearly laughed at the look of complete despair on Maul's face. It must have been a nightmare to travel with two arch enemies at once, let alone them being Yoda and Kenobi.
"Wait, Master Yoda?" Kanan called out, recognizing the speech pattern.
"Master Yoda I am. Here to help I am." The small green alien spoke with joy as he approached Kanan and Ezra, hobbling with his walking stick. "Pleased I am to see you well. Learnt much, have you?"
The question was directed at both of them, Ahsoka could tell. And the answer was quite clearly yes. Since she had first met them, Kanan and Ezra had improved leaps and bounds.
She was proud of them in a way.
Saw meanwhile had been studying Maul's other companion, the one with in brown robes with a white beard. Beside Saw, Ahsoka could see Rex's eyes light up with joy at the sight of his old general.
"General Kenobi? What are you doing here?"
Obi-Wan walked over to Rex, clasping him gently on the shoulder in greeting.
"The same reason you are here Captain. To help our friend in her time of need."
"Wait, Obi-Wan Kenobi as well?" Ezra turned in surprise to look at the elder human, who smiled and nodded at Ezra and Kanan.
"General Kenobi?" Saw then spoke, recognition in his voice.
Obi-Wan shifted his gaze to Saw, before a smile came to his aging face.
"Saw Gerrerra, it has been a long time."
Stepping away from the assembled group, Ahsoka turned to look upwards. In the time they had been talking, night had fallen on Raada. It was time to enter the cave for the night.
But something was eating away at Ahsoka. Everyone they had asked had practically arrived. The team was formed.
All except for one person.
Ahsoka was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't hear Kaeden move to stand beside her, the dark-skinned human leaning her weight against the Togruta.
Turning her gaze slightly to Kaeden's, Ahsoka spoke.
"I thought he would come. Shows what I know."
She was referring to Quinlan Vos, that was evident. Ever since she had encountered the old master on Kashyyyk, she had held out for the possibility that he would join.
But now it looked like he wouldn't be.
Sighing, Ahsoka turned away from the stars above, and began to head towards the cave entrance, where the rest of the group appeared to also be preparing to head inside.
Just as she neared the group however, another sound hit her montrals. One that sounded a lot like the engines of a ship.
"Ahsoka! Look!" Kaeden called out, pointing upwards.
The entire group shifted their gaze upwards. A ship, a fighter by the looks of it, was hovering above them.
Then it began to descend.
A smile filled Ahsoka's gaze as she recognized the design of the ship. It was a familiar model, one she hadn't seen in use for many many years.
Clearly she was not the only one.
"Is that an Eta-2, Jedi variant to be precise? Who's flying that?" It was Obi-Wan who enquired first, confusion in his voice.
Internally, Ahsoka was filled with joy and excitement at what was about to occur.
The Jedi Starfighter landed before them, the engines powering off and the hatch to the pilot seat opening.
A figure rose up from the pilot's seat, jumping out of the fighter with reckless abandon, before standing to his full height to look out over the assembled group.
Ahsoka smiled at the sight of the man, an iconic yellow stripe covering his face.
Then, the man broke into a huge smile, and began to stride towards the group, his eyes focused on one individual in particular, just as Ahsoka assumed they would be.
"Kenobi you old rule stickler you, how's it going? Man you got old fast! Maybe you should try some sort of anti-wrinkle cream, yeah?"
Ahsoka nearly burst out laughing at the sight of Obi-Wan's jaw, which had practically dropped onto the floor. Through the force, she felt his immense surprise.
"What? Vos? You're alive?" Kenobi spoke, undeniable joy in his voice.
"You know it buddy. Couldn't leave you without anyone to annoy you right?" Vos spoke boisterously, his hand coming to roughly clasp Obi-Wan's shoulder, before pulling him into an unexpected bear hug.
Obi-Wan was clearly uncomfortable with the contact, clearly still reeling in shock at the sudden appearance of Quinlan Vos, and Ahsoka couldn't blame him. It wasn't every day that a friend you thought dead came back to life.
Vos pulled away from Kenobi, turning his attention now to Yoda.
"And Master Yoda? Have you gotten shorter old friend?"
Surprising everyone, Yoda merely chuckled at Vos' statement. The Kiffar man had always been somewhat of a joker.
Vos then turned to look at Ahsoka, a serious expression on his face.
"Is the offer to help still open?"
Ahsoka smiled, nodding.
Vos began to smile, before his face suddenly underwent a dark shift, as if he had seen something that scared him.
That much was proven moments later, when a green flash of light emerged and was swung towards something behind Ahsoka.
Ahsoka barely had time to react, anticipating that this might have happened if Vos came along.
Igniting her own saber, Ahsoka blocked Vos' green with her white, stopping the Jedi Master's strike.
"Ahsoka? What are you doing? That's a clone!"
'Oh!' Ahsoka thought. She had expected this reaction towards Maul, not Rex.
But then it occurred to her. Vos had been targeted by Order 66. He was unaware of the chips. Unaware that Rex was loyal.
He still assumed that the clones were the bad guys.
"I know Quinlan, but Captain Rex didn't betray me. And he and a few of his brothers want to help us. If you're going to work with us, then I need you to trust him." Ahsoka spoke, her voice edging towards a commanding tone. Never did she think she would use such a tone of a respected and renowned Jedi Master.
But in this case, it was necessary.
Vos' face took on a myriad of different looks, but his eyes were clearly haunted by what had happened in the past. The clone betrayal effected everyone differently. Ahsoka had just been lucky enough to have one who had remained loyal to her.
She had been forced to kill the rest.
Finally, Vos extinguished his blade.
"Fine. But I'll be watching them if it's all the same to you Ahsoka."
That was all Ahsoka could ask for. A little bit of trust.
"Um, not to interrupt, but it's getting cold out here. Shall be head inside?" Kaeden chose that moment to interrupt, breaking the tension that had formed.
Ahsoka glanced a look at her… what was Kaeden to her now?
Shaking off that thought, the Togruta smiled, before leading the way into the cave, the remaining members of her team following her.
When she entered into the main open space of the cave network, Ahsoka expected everyone to either be asleep or dozing off.
What she hadn't expected was to see everyone crowded round a fire that had been built, listening to some outlandish tale being told by Hondo Ohnaka.
"And then, Azmorigan came running back around the corner, screaming like a little girl!"
Ahsoka only caught the end of the story, but judging by the way Hondo burst out laughing, as well as various other team members, it was clearly quite humorous.
When the laughter died down, Hondo's gaze shifted to Ahsoka, before spotting someone behind her.
"Oh my! Is that my dear old friend Obi-Wan Kenobi? It is! My friend!"
Hondo came bounding towards them, pulling Kenobi into another bear hug. Once again, Obi-Wan seemed equally surprised at the appearance of Hondo as Hondo did him.
Hondo pulled back, his face moving from Kenobi's to the red visage of Maul's.
"And crazy tattoo man! How wonderful to see you again!"
Maul merely snarled, warning the Weequay to back off, clearly remembering their past encounter
Ahsoka stepped away from the ongoing discussion, moving towards the fireplace, Kaeden on her tail.
They were all supposed to get a good night's sleep before tomorrow.
But now, now all she wanted to do was enjoy what might as well be her last night alive with friends.
So if that meant a late night party around a fireplace, then so be it.
The group had settled down after introductions had been made, and food had been given out courtesy of the clones, who had brought some supplies with them.
Currently, Hondo was recalling the events of a previous adventure he had been on, one that was familiar to Ahsoka.
"And then, General Grievous comes stomping into my hideout all, 'look at me I'm a big scary robot with lightsabers', and throws me in my own prison cell!"
Various chuckles went round the group. Of all the people, it was Gregor who seemed to be listening the most intently. The clone commando clearly enjoyed the slightly over the top nature of Hondo.
"And then, to top it all off, I later find out that the reason Grievous attacked my stronghold was because Kenobi couldn't hold off a small fleet of battledroids!"
Obi-Wan began to sputter in surprise at the dig. Maul clearly enjoyed it, as a smirk appeared on his face at his arch enemy's discomfort.
"It wasn't a small fleet Hondo. Besides, you captured Count Dooku once. I figured you could probably handle Grievous." Obi-Wan defended himself.
Another bright smile reached Hondo's face.
"Oh, that's reminds me of another story!"
After Hondo had gone through practically his entire life story, the Weequay pirate had calmed down, settling into the friendly nature of the group. Ahsoka almost wondered if he was trying to prove himself or something.
With the lack of Hondo to fill the gap of discussion, it was only a matter of time before another one sparked up.
And it did.
"You have earned quite a reputation for your work General Syndulla. Blowing up that light cruiser in orbit? That was truly something." Saw spoke, addressing the orange Twi-lek.
"As have you Gerrerra. Though I question your more aggressive tactics." Cham replied, a slight edge in his tone.
Ahsoka held her breath, expecting some sort of argument to break out.
Beside her, she felt Kaeden, who was leaned against her, stiffen also.
Saw then offered his reply. "Questionable I know. And I hate it, but we all fight the empire in our own way. Is that not why we are here tonight?"
Cham smiled, his incisor teeth showing as he did. Raising a cup he had in his hand, Cham spoke.
"Too true my fellow rebel. Let's compare notes after this."
"I'll drink to that!"
The Gerrerra/Syndulla debate continued for a while afterwards, before a new round of discussion began. This one clearly more designed to cause humour for the team.
It was of no surprise to Ahsoka that it was Miara that was leading the discussion.
"So Ahsoka, who's your favourite Fulcrum agent of yours? Cassian, or Kallus?"
Both Cassian and Kallus' head turned to stare down Ahsoka instantly, their eyes boring into Ahsoka's.
It was clear that whoever she picked would upset the other one, even if it was a joke.
So she settled for a third, unexpected answer.
"K-2SO."
"What?!"
"Excuse me?!"
"Excellent choice!"
The wide range of responses caused Ahsoka to laugh. Both Cassian and Kallus had annoyed looks on their faces, while K-2 seemed overly pleased with himself.
Shaking her head, Ahsoka decided that it was her turn to ask a question.
"Hey Zeb. Chopper, or AP-5?"
As the night drifted on, Ahsoka watched as various members began to grow quiet. Some had fallen asleep, and others were together in small groups discussing things.
The only ones who were not in the cave were Kanan and Hera, who had attempted to sneak out together when they thought no one was watching.
The Togruta allowed a small smile to come to her face. At least they were happy, despite everything.
Taking another look around the room, Ahsoka sighed. Everyone present could be dead this time tomorrow. How could she ask them to sacrifice everything on what was a simple rumour.
Perhaps rebel command had been right. Perhaps this was a foolhardy mission.
The last thing she wanted was to get her team, her friends, killed because of some personal mission.
Sighing again, Ahsoka slowly moved to stand, not drawing any attention to herself.
She looked down at the sleeping form of Kaeden and whispered.
"I'm sorry."
And then she turned and headed out of the cave.
Exiting the cave, Ahsoka began to move towards the Nightbrother. Hopefully Maul wouldn't be too pissed off is she took it.
She had to face Sidious alone. Had to do this whole mission alone.
That was better than risking the lives of her friends, of her newfound family, for a personal grudge.
Just as she was nearing the bottom ramp, a voice called out to her.
"Going something, are you?"
Ahsoka halted her footsteps, a sense of shame filling her.
Turning from her position, Ahsoka looked down at the concerned face of Master Yoda, who had apparently followed her out.
"Yoda, please?" Ahsoka spoke timidly. She knew what he was about to do.
"Leaving without us, you were planning to? Why?"
"Because I can't in good conscience let them come with me. They could get killed!"
Yoda's eyes didn't budge from Ahsoka's face, but in them she saw understanding.
"Get killed every day you could. Not stopped you before. Why now?"
Ahsoka stopped to think. It was true. In the past, she had held no qualms about getting people to risk their lives. Hadn't that practically been her entire career in the clone wars? Risking people's lives for the so called greater good?
And what even was the greater good anymore?
"This is my fight Yoda. I'm going, and you can't stop me!" Ahsoka replied, turning her back on the Jedi Master, fully intended on continuing up the ramp into the Nightbrother.
"Coming with you I am then. Help you I wish to."
Ahsoka span around, looking down at Yoda with a mortified look on her face. What was he saying?
"Respect your wishes I do. Dangerous this mission is. But alone you do not need to be. With friends, you are. Help you, they want to."
Ahsoka listened to what Yoda was saying. It was true that everyone had become because she had asked. They all wanted to see the end of the emperor.
"But why? Why would they follow me?" Ahsoka asked, no, pleaded with Yoda.
Yoda merely smiled.
"Believe in you, they do."
It was a rare comment coming from the Jedi Master, from a person who, in her most desperate hour, had sold her out.
But now, despite the past, despite everything, he was willing to believe.
He was willing to help.
And so was everyone else.
Raising her hands in the air, Ahsoka submitted.
"Fine. But I don't like this."
Yoda hummed lightly, before turning to lead the way back into the cave.
"Know you don't I do, makes you a good person, it does."
Entering back into the open area of the cave, Ahsoka saw that everyone else was asleep. She noticed that Yoda too was moving over to a small space near the fire, before curling up into a ball.
Sighing to herself, Ahsoka moved back to her previous position next to Kaeden, lying down beside her.
The last thing she saw as she closed her eyes, was the rise and fall of Kaeden's chest, as the dark-skinned human breathed gently in her sleep.
Ahsoka found it to be a comforting sound.
She had expected some sort of nightmare, some sort of vision. And she had gotten one.
Ahsoka stood in the streets of what looked like Naboo, facing a small collection of houses nearby.
"I grew up here. Strange really. To come from such humble beginnings."
Ahsoka didn't turn her head to greet Sidious, who had clearly intruded in her dream again thanks to the Sith holocron.
"I know you are coming for me Ahsoka. And I await your arrival."
Ahsoka didn't reply. The Sith Lord wasn't worthy of her words. She wouldn't rise to his taunting as he expected her to.
"Tomorrow, your friends will die, and you will become Sith!"
The vision before her faded away, and Ahsoka was left alone once more.
Author's thoughts
Well, this was a monster of a chapter wasn't it. It took forever to write, and suffice to say there was so much more I wanted to include in it, but I had to cut it as it was getting too long as it was. I will however revisit this scene in one shots, so no worries.
Now, I'm sure many of you are wondering why there was such a fluffy lighthearted chapter in the story at this point, especially one so long. The reason for that is as follows. But firstly:
WARNING! WARNING! WARNING!
From this point onwards we are in Act II of the story. This means that from this point onwards characters can and will start dying. I apologise in advance if I kill off your favourites. It is not done maliciously, but merely in the best interests of the story. If you want to rage at me in the comments/swear to destroy me, then I am fine with that. I'm happy to talk about the deaths when they happen.
Also, if you choose to stop reading my story because I kill off your favourite character then I completely understand and will not hold it against you. I really hope you like the direction of the story from this point onwards, as everything is about to go to hell.
Furthermore, I will also be doing a 'In Memorium' section whenever a character is killed off, giving my thoughts on the chracter as a whole as well as a reason why they were killed off.
Remember, no one (except for Cassian, K-2 and the Larte Sisters) are safe from death. So place your bets on who is not making it.
Now that that is over.
Next chapter is an imperial only one, and centres round 'The Meeting of the Moffs'. Hope you like it.
As usual, comment and speculate at will. I missed some comments from analysis last chapter, so this long chapter is about to get even longer:
Chapter 22 reviews:
Cranky Paws: I'm glad the surprise Yoda surprised you. They will need him if they hope to stand a chance against Sidious. Yoda's dialogue is challenging to be sure, but I need him to speak to get his point across. Kind of a double edged sword in a way.
Kaeden is so used to force users such as Ahsoka that when she discovers that this little green creature is more powerful than the others, it kind of blows her mind a bit.
Mysterious guest number one: I'm glad you enjoyed the cave scene. It was fun to write.
Mysterious Guest number two: I'm glad you liked the chapter. Maul's cave experience will be a one shot one this fic is done.
Chapter 23 reviews:
LukeDude: Draven is a piece of work. He doesn't seem to like anyone, and I needed someone to play the rebel bad guy, so here he is.
I'm glad you liked the small Galen interlude. You've got to feel sorry for him. His prediciment is dire.
And your concern for the team is well founded. We can only hope things go well.
Now, your questions:
1. While not stated, the Ghost did recieve the full upgrade from the Defender prototype. However, it is the weapons, shields and IFF that will be important.
2. For this story, the only alien imperials on the Death Star are Thrawn and the Eighth Bro.
3. The location of the Death Star is REDACTED. (muhahahahahaha)
jamese765: Ahsoka's team certainly needs all the help they can get at this point. Let's hope that Sato and crew get there in time to stop Draven.
FossilQueen1984: Mon Mothma is trying her best, but when she is dealt so many wild cards at once there is only so much she can do. It's Draven who is the problem.
Leia is loyal to her favourite 'aunt'. And Sato is too badass to not agree with Ahsoka on this mission. (I nearly had him tag along originally)
Chiara Polairix Edelstein: Yeah I felt bad for Leia and Bail writing this. They are both too innocent. We can only hope that something good comes out of all this.
TheTalidaPrimeFan: Mothma and Draven have certainly made a mistake here. Let's hope it doesn't come back to bite them in the arse.
Cranky Paws: Your feeling is about right. Things are about to go horribly wrong. Draven is still on team rebel, even if his methods are somewhat extreme.
Mysterious Guest number one: I'm glas you liked the chapter, and no worries about not commenting last time. :)
Ahsoka vs. Mothma... we will see.
Mysterious Guest number two: Hello. :)
Maliwan: If any rebel soldiers went after Ahsoka, Maul, Kenobi and Yoda would be the least of their troubles. Imagine what Ahsoka would do herself?
Travis Middleton: It was only a matter of time until rebel command caught wind of the plan. What is important is their reaction to it. In this case, it is somewhat over the top. ("Ahsoka had disobeyed orders... eliminate her!")
I'm glad you liked the Galen section. Poor guy just wants to see his daughter again. Now, your questions:
1. The Death Star's first target for when it is fully operational will be revealed at some point... and it's not where you think it will be.
2. Thrawn and Rax will meet discuss something. What, you will have to wait and find out.
3. The Death Star does still have the reactor weakness is does in canon, but the team isn't aware of it. It would save them so time if they were though.
Mogor: Rebel command has gone full crazy. Ordering the death of one of their best agents? Morons!
SWGoji2001: Rebel vs. rebel... now that's an interesting idea.
Jyn will not appear in this story. I am saving her for a one shot.
ItsJustABook: Thanks for your in depth reviews. I shall reply to them all here.
I don't hate Mon Mothma, really. She is a good person, but sometimes a bit too naive. In the past chapter, she is pretty much at the mercy of Draven's doings. If you should hate anyone in this story, it is him.
Also, I agree that Bail would never agree with shuch a plan. He respects and trusts Ahsoka, despite everything. However, Mothma is in charge, and what she says goes. He can't stop her directly. And right now he needs to make sure Leia is ok.