The Space Between Stars

by VinVenture12

Kylo Ren has been humiliated by the scavenger and is now hunting her for retribution. He delves deeper into the depths of darkness along his journey, while Rey soars closer to the light. Strangers on opposite sides of a war, but bound together through their destinies. Both will do whatever it takes to survive, but who will come out victorious? Slow Reylo. Post TFA, Later M rating

42. Chapter 42

A huge thanks to all the follows, faves, and reviews. I cannot stress enough on how it all helps me to keep pushing forward to finish this story. I had the toughest time yet writing this chapter and was actually tempted just to give up and walk away. Not even finish it. I think as the end draws closer and certain things happen to the characters, the pressure sets in. Not necessarily from you guys, more so from me. I am really hard on myself when it comes to this piece of work, and it nearly swallowed me whole this last week as I was trying to finish it. So, I hate to sound needy, but encouragement does help me to keep going. If any of you are writers, artists, entertainers, you will understand that, I'm sure.

Aleta Wolff: Yeah, no one was able to guess about Ren going after Carise. It was pretty impossible to figure it out. But is anyone actually sad that he killed her? I certainly am not! lol. KyloRen'sgirl213: I will try my hardest to keep up this story! Thanks for finding it to be good and loving it! sweetes forbidden candy apple: Noooooo! You must live! lol. and I am planning on advertising this story more once I've gone back and edited everything. Thanks for wanting it to have more popularity! But I'm not one of those fanifc authors who has a massive following. And that's okay. SheLitAFire: Everything Ben does is poor timing. He needs to have some impulse control. I'm glad you aren't indifferent towards Ben's need for revenge. Carise is the worst and I am sure we were all hoping for her demise. astrogoddess: I love to hear someone say they binge read my story! Yipee! I'm glad the emotions in the story were able to resonate with you. I really want the characters to connect with the readers. That's one of the reasons it takes me a while to get a chapter out. I have to really think about what a character is feeling or what their thought process would be. It can be exhausting. And I can totally relate to how it takes a lot to make you cry. I'm the same way. Only a handful of books have done that to me. But each one has left a deep impression. And pick up that pen again! Do it! niteowl29: Thanks for having it as one of your top favs! and thanks for appreciating the character dynamics and portrayals. I work hard to write them in a way that is close to realistic. Don't stop reading!

So this chapter is a long one! I was going to break it up, but it messed with the flow. Hope none of you mind! And if there are errors, I apologize. I was editing and posting this while watching my two crazy kids.

Chapter Forty-two

He darted out of the small apartment, seeing the police droids and officers down the alleyway. Finn didn't bother aiming well. He wasn't going for accuracy; he was going for a distraction.

Specifically, him being the distraction.

The shots worked, grabbing the attention of those on the hunt. Finn led them as far away from Ren and Rey as possible, his legs pumping beneath him, the heavy heaves of cool air grating his throat.

Ren will get Rey out of here, he assured himself.

But he would never see her again.

The goodbye he'd given her had been so short and quick. But even if he had a full day, he would still consider it not enough for a proper farewell. If those even existed.

He would miss Rey the most. And Poe. All his comrades at the ESC. He hoped Breaala would take care of them.

He regretted pushing Caliiya away. He should've accepted her help. Accepted her.

Then there was Ren…. He was an asshole, but had gradually become tolerable. The man did teach him how to fly a ship. That must count for something.

He said a silent goodbye to all of them.

At some point through the pursuit, a blaster bolt hit his right shin, but he hadn't felt it. Not immediately. He initially thought his leg was getting tired, but glancing down, he saw the blood. Knew he'd been hit.

Finn didn't get far after that. A blaster – known as the needler – made a direct hit, ropes of red lightening escaping the tip and coiling around his body. Every nerve erupted in fire and pain. His throat closing, not even allowing him to yell or gasp.

At that moment, Finn truly believed he would die. Darkness bled into the edges of his vision, claiming him, dragging him down and down and down….

He woke, now locked into an interrogation chair, the air smelling crisp, cool, and metallic. The quick transition from one moment to the other was disorienting, but Finn knew where he was. Could almost imagine the room he was in.

Pressure on his forehead, arms, and legs indicated that he was securely strapped into the interrogation chair. He might even break a bone if he tried to thrash against the restraints.

A small part of Finn was flattered. They must think him a formidable threat to secure him so tightly.

Pushing pride aside, he tried to calculate how much time had passed.

He couldn't come up with an answer.

He opted against trying to move and focused on not making any changes to his breathing. More than likely, an officer was in this room. Watching him. The longer he was out, the longer it would take to break him into giving up Resistance secrets.

If he broke.

Would he break?

Everyone did. Eventually. That's what he'd always been told. But Poe never did. Even through all the beatings given to him with precise skill, he had resisted. It was only when they brought in Kylo Ren that Poe shattered.

Good thing the First Order was all out of Force wielding warlords.

This could work. He could resist.

Finn heard the muffled sound of voices, deducing they were just outside the room's entrance. One of them was a distinctly frustrated Hux. His crisp, authoritative tone very distinct.

"I want every second of those vids wiped from the Holonet," the general commanded.

There was a pause.

"But, sir…" the voice contested, trepidly, "once something is on the Holonet, it can't be erased. People in the galaxy will copy and redistribute–"

"This is your field of expertise," Hux cut him off sharply. "Fix it or I'll find someone to replace you. Understand?" Finn assumed the person was nodding. "And do not allow a single stormtrooper to have access to a datapad."

"And if they do view the recordings?"

Recordings?

"Execute them."

"About Carise Sindian… what should we do with her body?"

Hux's voice was calmer, making it hard for Finn to pick up on what he was being said. But he did hear the words "discreetly" and "dispose".

The door slid open and then footsteps, which stopped not too far from him.

"Wake him up."

The lower half of Finn's body spasmed uncontrollably, his teeth clinching together as he tried to hold in a grunt. The sensation was more maddening than painful. Which was the device's purpose: to drive you insane, for a sane person held their tongue.

The electrical current ceased, leaving Finn panting. He gazed at General Hux, a fire of indignation roaring behind those icy blue irises.

Hux shook his head, making a disapproving clucking sound with his tongue. "Trying to snag my father shows a certain desperation on your part. Unfortunately for you, you'll never get the same opportunity again. The man was rather old, and his heart gave out due to all the commotion. May he rest in peace."

Not an ounce of bereavement showed on his pale face.

Finn chuckled out of his nose. "You had him killed. I can read between the lines."

Hux didn't bother trying deny it. "Fathers are a reminder of the past. I like to look toward the future."

"Yeah… I bet you'd want to forget you're a bastard son."

Hux's temples protruded, but the man kept his tone even, shaking off Finn's insult at his lineage. "And how do you know you aren't as well?" Hux came closer. "You had such potential. Phasma was so sure you would become a general some day. Tell me, what made you take the leap and betray the very organization that gave you purpose?"

"Purpose?" Finn repeated, aghast. "You call training us into complacent killing machines that are viewed as an expendable resource a purpose?" The shackles shook against Finn's involuntarily attempt at movement. "You stole us from our families. Enslaved us into a life none of us asked for."

Hux raised an innocent brow. "Stole, you say? No," he shook his head. "I don't recall ever ripping a sobbing babe out of a mother's arms. Your comrades were either orphans, or their families sold them to us. Your life just so happens to fall in the latter." Hux seemed pleasantly pleased to have Finn's undivided attention. "Did you know you had a sister? They sold her the same time as they did you. All for ten credits each. You were only worth ten credits to them. They didn't want you. They tossed you aside like a dirty rag. We swept you up and trained you to be a formidable soldier. We saved your life."

All Finn could focus on was the fact he had family. "Where's my sister?"

"She died ten years ago. The program proved to be to difficult for her."

The more Finn moved, the tighter the restraints seemed to get. But he couldn't help his rage from taking over his body. "You boast about giving us all second chances, and yet, your program killed her."

Hux steepled his fingers, a hint of satisfaction teasing along his lips. "I never said it would be easy. Living isn't a right. It's a privilege."

"Easy to say from your position."

"I earned my place," he responded passionately. "And you left yours." Hux nodded to the loyalty officer. Finn bit down on his lip as his arms seized, tasting blood. "Where are Ren and the scavenger?"

His muscles relaxed, his lungs able to take in precious gulps of oxygen. "They could… be anywhere by now."

"They must have places they would go."

A drop of sweat slid into Finn's eye, stinging the cornea. But he didn't blink. Didn't react to the question.

Hux loomed over him now. "Where is Kylo Ren?"

This time, Finn was pumped with multiple rounds of electrical currents, each one stopping for a few seconds before going to a different limb. Every pause was a relief, only for the sliver of comfort to be robbed away.

During an interlude, Hux gripped Finn's chin, digging his nails into his flesh. "Tell me where he is."

Finn's breathing was becoming sporadic now, the muscles in his torso twitching uncontrollably. But despite it all, he did something that surprised Hux and even himself:

He laughed.

"Snoke must be running out of time," Finn mumbled through smashed lips. Hux let go, taking a step back. "Isn't he? You haven't asked me a single question about the Resistance, because Snoke told you to put all your resources into finding Ren. Right?" Hux pinched his head, lowered his brows. "And you don't even know why. Your Supreme Leader is withholding information from you, General," Finn mocked.

Hux's stare tightened. "Where is he?"

Finn said nothing.

"Turning to silence as a tactic? That's your choice to make." Hux closed the short distance between them, their noses almost touching. "You know the methods we use to get someone to break. And you will break. And they will be found. And when they are, I'm going to put a blaster to that scavenger scums head and make Ren watch as I put a bolt through her skull."

"If you think Ren would ever let that happen, you must not know him very well."

Hux's lip curled into a sickening grin before he went back to his position, nodding to the officer.

Here we go.

()()()()()

Ren's finger twitched against the cool fabric of the cushions, his fingers spreading out as his mind slowly crept closer to consciousness. Something warm had been here before… someone warm. Snuggling against him, draping an arm over his body.

His eyelids shot open.

But Rey wasn't there.

She had been, though. Or was he just remembering a wishful dream?

He lifted his head, glancing at the entrance to the private quarters. Like the barrier might show some kind of indication that Rey had ventured out of her room.

"Rey was here." Ren shifted his gaze to the main holds corridor, finding Poe standing there. Looking at him. The man crossed the room, heading for one of the crates filled with rations. "She was laying next to you for a bit," the pilot explained, rifling through the contents, crinkling wrappers. "If that's what you're confused about."

So she really did come out here to be with him. Or she just couldn't take the loneliness anymore. The reason didn't matter much right now.

"When did she leave?" he asked, voice rough from sleep. He noticed the lack of hum from hyperspace, meaning they were coming up on Ponemah terminal.

Poe tore the wrapper and took a heaping bite. He made Ren wait till he swallowed to answer. "A couple hours ago."

Ren nodded.

Near his head, Ren grabbed the datapad, checking his personal account. He forwarded the information he got from Lizari to Caliiya. Then nervously opened the reply from Soniee.

It's done.

That was it. Just two words. No acknowledging the vids that were released of him. Or the story he'd written out to her.

But at least she'd gotten back to him.

His mother still hadn't. Knowing her, she probably wrote six different drafts of a message, deemed them all horrible, and was now writing the seventh. To her, it would have to be a perfect mixture of revulsion over his actions, while proclaiming that she still loved him. Leia would be careful not to make him feel ostracized from her.

That had been the problem growing up. And look how that turned out.

Poe was eating the bar and watching him, the kind of cold stare he threw Ren's way making him feel uneasy.

Poe wadded up the wrapper and started walking back toward the cockpit.

"You hate me, don't you?" Ren blurted out, instantly regretting it.

Poe stopped and regarded him. "Hate you?" He shook his head. "What a simple word…. Honestly, man, I don't know what I feel towards you. I was just starting to believe we were understanding each other and getting along, and then you go murder someone and Finn gets taken saving your ass. It's like you purposefully don't want people to like you. Like you go out of your way to jeopardize your own life. It's not healthy."

Ren was not expecting such straightforwardness. "I'm not a people person," he said, like it explained everything.

"Clearly."

"I was being impulsive."

"Go on."

Ren shrugged. "I just wanted to admit that."

Poe lips thinned into a line. "You suck at apologies."

Ren groaned, stretching his neck from side to side. Getting ready to do the one thing he detested the most. "I'm sorry… about Finn."

Poe waited for him to say more. Except, he didn't. "Anything else you want to apologize for?"

"What do you mean?"

Poe was taken aback. "What I mean is how you ruined my operation to go murder Carise Sindian."

"I'm not sorry for killing her." Poe gave him a flat stare. "But… I could have gone about it differently."

"How so?"

"I could have waited till after we had Brendol. She was staying at the hotel overnight. So… the probability of her still being there when we were finished was high."

Poe clapped mockingly. "Isn't it amazing the ideas your brain can come up with when you actually think things through? But just so we're clear, I'm not condoning murder. We just all need to stop trying to control what you do with your private time. The effort is a waste."

The comment stung, more than it should have. "The effort is appreciated," Ren admitted weakly.

"Because it means people actually care for you?" Ren remained still, but Poe knew it to be true. "That club is rather small, I assure you. And getting smaller."

"But a lot of people admire Finn," he said, like it was an afterthought. An add-on.

Poe tilted his head. "You say that like you can't imagine why."

"I can imagine why: people that share the same morals and beliefs gravitate toward each other."

Poe sighed and sat on one of the closed crates. "It's more than that. As I've gotten older, I started seeing different things in people. Loyalty. Honesty. Integrity. But the most important thing I searched for was someone who would stand by my side when everything started to crumble. I've found people like that. Finn is one of them. I'm not the only one to have noticed these things. Which is why people like him."

Ren nodded his head slowly, understanding. "He saved you. You saved him. You two must look up to one another a lot."

"He's my brother," Poe stated factually.

Staring him right in the face was the evidence that if Finn died, Ren would lose pretty much everything. If the roles were reversed, would anyone blame the trooper for Ren being taken?

Ren glanced away. Hung his head down. "I envy that… that closeness."

"You have Rey." Poe rubbed at his chin. "Or… I think you still do." Always the optimist, Ren thought. "If you want some advice, the best way to a woman's heart is through her stomach. We've all seen the way Rey stares at food."

The corner of Ren's mouth twitched as if it wanted to smile. "I thought you were going to say through the fifth left intercostal space at the midclavicular line."

"Really? You really thought I was going to say that?" Ren shrugged. Poe rolled his eyes. "You just like reminding everyone that you're the smartest person in the room."

To that, Ren actually grinned. Because Poe wasn't wrong.

Poe noticed the smirk and shook his head disapprovingly. "Don't let that compliment go to your head. You're still just a polished ball of dirt."

"As long as I'm polished, I'll accept that."

Poe rubbed at his face and groaned, chuckled, then groaned again. "Man, you're putting me in a tight spot over this whole situation. Because Finn is a close friend… and you are too. But you really screwed up."

Ren looked away, feeling as if he were a chastised child. He didn't know what to say to Poe. Did he keep apologizing? He preferred not to be outwardly contrite, lest it shows weakness.

It also made him uncomfortable.

Poe clapped his hands together, startling Ren. Rubbing his palms, he asked, "So, about the weapon on Jakku, do you have any idea of what it could be?"

"I'm not sure," Ren answered truthfully. "There were rumors that the Emperor built an observatory on the planet. But I don't see how an observatory could be a weapon."

"Your mother said Palpatine built a contingency plan into the observatory, just in case he died too soon. It would destroy Jakku, as well as many other planets. Luckily, it was stopped before being used."

Ren was tempted to ask what else Poe and his mother discussed. Were those recordings of him brought up? How did Leia react? But Ren kept to the topic of Jakku. "How would an observatory destroy other planets?"

"The mechanics aren't well known. It has something to do with using energy from the planet's core. And as it turns out, Jakku isn't the only planet with an observatory. It's just the only one we know of."

"But its primary function is the observatory?"

Poe nodded. "I just wonder what Palpatine was trying to observe with it."

Why didn't more people know about this? How many more secrets did his mother hold? And how many more would affect him?

Ren grimaced. "The only thing that makes any sense is the Unknown Regions."

"Why?"

"Maybe he thought something was out there that he could use? Or he was drawn to some sort of power? No one knows what's out there. There are many possibilities."

"Would Snoke be interested in the Unknown Regions?"

"Snoke?" Ren's head flinched back slightly. "I never got the impression that he was."

"So we can probably safely assume that it's a weapon again."

Ren shook his head, strands of hair falling into his eyes. "It just doesn't make sense. Snoke doesn't just want immortality, but to rule over the entire galaxy. So why destroy most of it?"

"Maybe it's only supposed to be a threat with no real intention of ever being used," Poe offered as a theory.

"Then he would have made it known that he had such a weapon by now. But he's kept it a secret." Ren chewed at his cheek. "It has to somehow be personal and important to him," he murmured, thinking out loud.

"That would explain why it's not heavily guarded. If Rey is correct of the location, there aren't many people protecting the plateau it's built into. And the ones that are look like retired soldiers, not the kind of polished ones the First Order has."

"If you have a lot of troops guarding one area, it would draw too much attention."

"Especially if they were wearing stormtrooper armor."

"And Jakku was technically a part of the New Republic," Ren reminded him. "So the First Order couldn't really have a presence there until–"

At that moment, Rey entered, holding the small pot that housed the flaming red pyro flower.

The men fell silent.

The awkwardness was immediately palpable. Ren stared down at his lap, clenching his jaw. She shouldn't be wearing her black jumpsuit. Even with the blue vest and thick belt, it still showed off her lithe figure too much. He never minded the thoughts that would dance around his mind upon seeing her in it before, but now, it seemed inappropriate.

Since she despised him.

"Good. You're up," Poe remarked. He stood, popping the knuckles of both hands. "We'll be at the terminal in a few minutes. Jess is flying us in."

"Let's get the supplies quickly and then get to Jakku," Rey said flatly.

Poe nodded. "Glad we're on the same page. I don't like wasting time either." He went to check on Jess, but stopped and turned to Ren, hesitating on what he was about to say. "Look…. Obviously I'm not very good at giving advice, but… the next time you're faced with murdering someone, you should think it over before you do. Because sometimes, it just isn't worth it." It looked as if Poe was going to add something more, but he closed his mouth and left.

"Congratulations." Ren snapped his head to Rey, not sure what she was getting at. She noticed his confusion and motioned to the saber hooked at his belt. "You found your lightsaber."

"Carise had it." But of course, Rey already knew that. Where else would he have found it?

Rey shifted her weight to the other leg, holding the plant close. She treated that piece of vegetation like it was her child, feeding it, thinning out the vines as it grew. Ren even caught her on occasion talking to it. "We'll need you to stay here," she ordered. "The last thing we need is for someone to recognize you."

Right.

His days of walking among others were now over. He shouldn't be as sad about that since he hated people in general.

Ren grabbed the credit chip from his pocket and handed it to her. "You should pay for the supplies with this."

She took it reluctantly, turning it over in her hand. "You sure this can't be tracked?"

"It's attached to the Elder House account of Alderaan. Leia and I are the only ones able to use it, and she runs it. It's privately controlled, with no bank interference."

They held eye contact for a considerable time, the conflicted look in her gaze making him want to touch her. Hold her.

But he didn't.

Rey put the chip in her pocket. "We'll be back soon."

She left without glancing back.

Guess it was back to living in the shadows for him. Problem was, he'd grown accustomed to living in the light. Quite liked it, too. Even if it meant having to occasionally mingle with people.

The datapad dinged. Ren saw it was a message from Caliiya.

Jumping into hyperspace to Coruscant. The Finalizer is there. Message me if you decide to come here and help. I could use it.

C

()()()()()

Being on Takodana had been a respite. A very short-lived respite of waking up to the cool mornings of dew covered leaves and the citrine sun; breathing in organic oxygen; the rush of a breeze through her hair and across her skin– the planet had spoiled Leia. She was so accustomed to living on a ship that being on a world where animals and humanoids thrived was like a vacation.

But her planetary time had come to an end upon learning of Finn's capture.

Leia and her personnel were now with what was left of the Resistance fleet, hiding in the Western Reaches of the Inner Rim.

She was in her own personal quarters, sitting on the sofa across from a holoscreen. She'd been watching the news broadcasts on repeat, watching the vids of her son. What she was doing was the very definition of self imposed torture. But this was Ben, and she was responsible for him turning into… this.

So she would watch.

For the most part, the atmosphere onboard was somber, with only the intermittent passerby walking down the hallway. Leia expected to hear those footfalls stop at her door, but none did. The only person to visit her since the broadcast was her brother. Though, the visit mostly consisted of him sitting across from her, caressing his peppered beard, staring off into oblivion. Not much talking to be had since they both knew these things about Ben.

Luke only left when Leia asked him to keep an eye on the command bridge. He declined at first, but Leia's insistence made it obvious she didn't want to be seen by anyone. Not right now. So out of sympathy, Luke went to fulfill Leia's responsibilities. And to answer the questions everyone had.

It wasn't like her to hide from confrontation. She knew that. But the fact everyone was talking about her son and her family… she needed a moment to herself. There were only two things that truly broke Leia during her life: the destruction of Alderaan, and her son becoming Kylo Ren. Both she struggled with talking about openly.

To make her emotions worse, it was like she was reliving the loss of Ben all over again.

She massaged her neck, closing her eyes for a brief moment. Her thoughts switched to the earlier conversation with Poe, thinking over what he told her. A super weapon? On Jakku? Possibly where the observatory was?

They should have destroyed that place instead of just leaving it there, hoping it would be forgotten, that it would never function properly again. If it had been remade into some sort of weapon, Leia was at fault.

Everything felt like her fault lately.

In her lap, her datapad weighed heavily against her thighs. She had tried writing a message to Ben, but just couldn't get the tone right. She'd deleted the multiple attempts before giving in and taking a break, hoping something sincere and accepting would come to her mind.

So far, nothing had.

She didn't even know what to tell him when it came to Harter. Ben was demanding a plan to get her back, but get her back from where? No one knew where she was. And Leia didn't want to tell him she was still working on a way of figuring that out.

She glanced to the right, seeing a rigid Threepio angled at the holoscreen, his glowing eyes the only evidence that he was still operating. Threepio usually had a comment for everything, but he'd been silent all evening.

"Do you remember Ben being so angry as a child?" Leia's voice broke through the quiet.

Threepio's golden head swiveled, looking down at the general. If the droid had facial muscles, she was sure he would look surprised by the question. "Are you referencing to when he tore me apart after I found him mutilating an animal?"

Not the reminder she needed right now. "Besides that," she said smugly.

"There were times when he would get angry. But mostly, I recall him being… detached, if that is the correct description."

Leia nodded, agreeing. The older Ben became, he only showed emotion in the extremes: intense rage, or sinking melancholy. Looked as if Threepio had made the same observation as her.

"However, he did have moments of happiness," Threepio continued, trying to add some positivity. "At least, that is what it appeared to be. Sometimes sentient emotions pervade me."

Leia sighed. "I just wonder if Ben will ever break free of the things that want to ruin him."

Threepio gave a terse bow. "Forgive me, General, but I'm not sure how you want me to respond."

She reached out, touching Threepio's forearm. "It's alright Threepio. You don't have to."

A short succession of knocks came from the door. Leia called out for her visitor to enter as Threepio retreated back behind the sofa.

Ransolm walked in hesitantly, still wearing the prescribed military uniform. Leia still couldn't get used to seeing him in it. "Is it too late to visit?" he asked.

"No. Honestly, I was expecting you to come by earlier." Ransolm caught a glimpse of what was on the holoscreen before Leia turned it off, his face plainly souring. "I take it you've seen what the First Order released?" she observed.

He crossed the room, sitting in the chair Luke had occupied earlier. Ransolm just stared at her for the longest time, trying to gage exactly where she was at emotionally. Leia didn't give much away. "Is it true?" he finally asked.

"Those images aren't fabricated. My son has killed the very people who were fighting for–"

"I don't mean the vids. Those don't surprise me." He leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees. "Did he kill Han?"

Leia remained taciturn for a few heartbeats before replying with a curt, "Yes."

Ransolm closed his eyes, letting go of the breath that had been trapped in his lungs.

Leia said nothing. Her brain was clicking away at all her familial memories, mostly a bombardment of Ben when he was just a boy, and those sweet moments Han would play with him. But it occurred to her after a minute that she hadn't said anything and Ransolm was watching her.

"That's all you're going to say?" his voice curled up. "Yes"?"

Leia's shoulders slumped, her voice sounding tired. "What more do you want?"

Ransolm blinked quickly. "I think our friendship entitles me to some details."

She cocked her head. "Entitles?"

Ransolm slightly backed off at seeing Leia get defensive. His approach changed, leaning more toward concern. "What's going on with your family, Leia? I knew it was complicated before, but this…. Your son has been complicit in tearing apart the galaxy, in helping your enemies."

"I know."

Ransolm's forehead furrowed. "How are you so composed right now?"

It was tempting to vault straight to being frustrated with Ransolm, but she didn't. It was clear he was having a difficult time comprehending all that has happened over the last six years.

Leia's face softened. "I understand your anger. I do. I was there not too long ago. But as you said, this is my family. I've known about my son for a long time. And I knew he killed Han the moment it happened. I felt Ben's regret. His guilt and loneliness. His confusion."

Ransolm ran a hand through his hair, still puzzled. "But… how could your son kill his own father?"

Her eyes glanced at the holoscreen, as if it were still on. "The dark side twists your mind and makes you view morality like it's malleable to your own desires." She met Ransolms intense stare. "You know this. You've studied the Jedi and Sith of old."

"It's one thing to read about evil. It's another to see it."

"My son has done evil things," she acknowledged.

"But you don't believe he is evil?"

"Snoke is the evil monster here," she contested. "He corrupted Ben while Han and I turned a blind eye. He took advantage of a lost and confused boy. Preyed on the fact I had lied to him about his lineage his whole life." Ransolm straightened his posture, listening. "The power my son possesses is as much a gift as it is a curse. He was born with equal potential for the light and the dark. It's just none of us were there for him in the way he needed."

Ransolm hung his head. "I'm just so sorry, Leia."

"You don't have to be sorry for thinking of my son in such a way. I understand how outsiders can view–"

He craned his head up. "No, not for that. Or, well, yes… I do apologize for talking so ill of your son in front of you. But I'm sorry for what's happened to your family."

She nodded, not in the mood for pity. "There is something I need to tell you, and I'm not sure how you'll react." Leia took in a long inhale, her hands tightly wound together, her fingernails digging into her thin flesh. "Carise Sindian is dead."

His eyes bulged, posture stiffened. "How? When?"

"Not even a full standard day ago." Leia paused. "Ben killed her."

Ransolm held up his palms, trying to process what she was saying. "But he's on Chandrila getting Brendol–"

"The mission failed. And Ben found Carise on Chandrila by happenstance."

His eyes darted around the room as he reeled in his shock. "Carise is the only person who can validate my innocence."

And there it was. That one fact. "I know. Ransolm, we will find another way to free you. Officially. I swear it."

Anger morphed his features, making them tight. Through clenched teeth, he asked, "Why did he do it?"

As Ben's mother, she still didn't truly understand all of his motives. But she could make a very educated guess to this one. "When Carise was holding me prisoner, he made a promise that he would find her and kill her. And if there's one thing I know about my son, it's that he doesn't like being made into a liar."

"No. He doesn't," Ransolm said in a tone that made Leia wonder just what he meant. He didn't explain his agreement. Leia didn't ask about it. Her son and Ransolm have probably exchanged a total of five words to each other over the last couple of months, but secretly she wished for them to be at least mutual allies.

She understood her son's vitriol toward Ransolm. She'd been there once to. But if they could just sit down and have a civilized, open discussion, they would find their ideologies are practically the same.

"Do you ever miss it?" she asked him. "Being a senator?"

"I more so miss the clothes," he grumbled, his mood still somewhat foul.

"Not a surprise," she said, trying to lighten the mood.

It didn't work.

"But honestly…" Ransolm shook his head, "I don't know. I tried to be fair and just. I tried to help people through the rank of my station. But look where that got me? The laws of the Republic were twisted around to produce my outcome."

"The New Republic didn't betray you. Carise did."

"The New Republic did nothing to prove that I was framed. You were the only one who did anything. But no one would listen to you. And most of the Centrist senators were conspiring with Carise and the First Order. The very people I thought were my friends…" Ransolm appeared pained as he went quiet.

Leia's door suddenly opened, Luke and Chewie bursting into the room, both out of breath. "The First Order fleet is leaving Coruscant," Luke declared, his hair swept back, eyes glued on Leia.

Ransolm and Leia shot to their feet. "Just the Star Destroyers or–"

"No. Everyone. Even ground the ground troops."

"Where?"

"Intel reports Jakku."

They've been found out.

Leia hurried out into the hall, fortunate that she was still wearing her dark grey dress and steely robe, the high collar coming just below her cheekbones. "Then we'll meet them there with everything the Resistance has."

Luke was close beside her. "Leia, you don't have the numbers."

"Then I'll recruit more. We need to give Ben and the others enough time to destroy the observatory."

Ransolm spoke up from her left. "If it's just an observatory, how could it be that important?"

She wheeled around, stopping Ransolm and the others in their tracks. "The First Order is sending all of their fire power to Jakku, even going as far as to leaving Coruscant exposed; a planet they've wanted under their rule since the beginning. They didn't even take these measures when we invaded Starkiller. You still think it's just an observatory?" Leia didn't wait for any of them to answer as she quickly made her way through the halls, going to the main communications center. The only person there was Major Taslin Brance, who shot out of his chair and stood at attention immediately upon her arrival.

Luke and Chewie followed her. Ransolm was not with them.

Leia gave out orders quickly. "I need you to send out a message to every planetary broadcast system and Holonet site we have access to. I need the whole galaxy to see this."

"Uh… yes, General. Would you like me to write down–"

"You'll be recording me," she said, sitting down in an unoccupied chair, looking at him expectantly. Brance was startled by the abruptness of her request, but quickly scrambled to ready the right equipment.

Once ready, he gave her the go ahead.

She jumped right into it, feeling the moment, letting the words pour from her mouth as they came to her. "My name is Leia Organa, General and leader of the Resistance. With some of you, my name will cause discord. I understand that, and I'm not here to dispute the legacy in which I come from or have produced. This message, this plea, pertains to the galaxy. To your very lives. The fate of the galaxy is resting on a very fine line at this exact moment. As I speak, the First Order fleet is heading to Jakku and with the forces we have, we plan on meeting them there. This organization has terrorized us long enough. They have murdered your loved ones, have destroyed planets in an effort to demolish the New Republic. And so I plead with you at this most desperate hour, that you take action in matters that pertain to the future. If you have a ship that is capable of fighting, come to Jakku. Fight along side us. Help us. Fight for yourselves and your family."

She paused, calming her voice, taking on a more somber appearance. "The cost of freedom is always high. I know this. But it is one that has always been paid. The First Order needs to know that we will never submit; that we will never give up. The goal of living is not to give it to those who rule over you with might, but to exist in a galaxy that allows you to prosper without a price. That allows you to raise your family without fear. To live the life you've earned."

Passion gradually started to climb back into her tone. "If we cower in the shadows, if we relent, we are shaming those who died fighting for these values. But with any war, there is a chance of loss. If we do not win this battle, I assure you that the generations that come after us will. They will look back and see how we went against the odds, how we stood for freedom, and that will inspire them to push through the exhaustion and doubt. Whether it be today or centuries from now, the galaxy will be free.

"The time for withdrawal is over. It is our duty to protect the galaxy from the darkness that is spreading. That is what I am going to do. And I hope to meet you in the midst and heat of battle, where I will either live or die among you. I have always fought for you, and I will never stop fighting for you. Know this to be the truth." She stared at the flashing light of the recorder, eyes sincere. Face smooth. "May the Force be with us. Always."

She looked to Brance, who quickly cut off the transmission.

Leia sat back, taking a moment before heading to the command bridge. She watched as Brance's fingers danced across the computer controls, working quickly to have the message reach every corner of the galaxy.

Luke and Chewie waited, letting her breathe quietly for what might be the last time for a long time. Or it could just be the last time.

There is nothing more I can do, Leia thought. The fate of the galaxy now rested with the people. There are heroes out there that yearn to answer such a call to action, but there are those who cower away from conflict, letting others fight the battles for them.

Thing is, Leia needed the cowards to join too. She needed the numbers.

War was a deathly arena where one side wins, and the other loses. And Leia finally wanted to know which side she was destined to be on.

()()()()()

Poe, Rey and Jess ventured into Ponemah terminal, the lively crowd allowing them to blend in seamlessly. They purchased two speeder bikes, clothes that suited the desert atmosphere, and more food to replenish their depleting supply. They weren't stopped or asked any questions. No one eyed them suspiciously or shot at them. All because they had left Ben behind on the Falcon.

What's life going to be like for him from now on? Would he have to hide from society?

Rey knew that wouldn't go over well.

Back on the Falcon, she left Poe and Jess in the cockpit with the coordinates of where to hide the ship, and then went to the living quarters. Before she could talk herself out of it, she knocked on one of the doors..

"Come in."

Everyone's fabrics stayed within the light beige and brown hues, the material agreeing with the hot desert climate. But it was odd to see Ben dressed in a white under tunic with an overlaying beige split tabard, a brown belt cinching it all together. His trousers were a thin, taupe material, and he was in the process of tucking them into his black boots. Rey was sure he would only part with those over his dead body.

She hung back near the door. "Jess told me about Caliiya. That the two of you concocted a plan."

He slipped his other foot into a boot. "She should be on the Finalizer by now."

"It's already happening?"

Ben stood, clipping a thin cloak to his shoulders. "I thought Caliiya could do this while we went to Jakku."

"You're sure?"

He shrugged as he clipped his lightsaber to the belt, making sure the cloak covered it. "Partly. Besides, she's expendable."

Ben grabbed a rucksack and headed for the main room, Rey staying on his heels. "Finn cares about her."

"He shouldn't care about someone like that." He started to go through one of the crates, stuffing provisions into the bag. Mostly water filled canteens.

Rey crossed her arms. "That's what everyone says to me about you."

Ben stopped, then abruptly threw one of the canteens across the room, the propulsion splitting the metal open, water cascading down the wall. He kept his back to her as he inhaled and exhaled deeply, rolling his shoulders. Rey tensed, readying herself just in case he lost control.

"I'm sorry, Rey," his gravelly voice whispered. "I'm so very sorry." He pivoted around, regret etched deep into the lines of his face. "I should have thought it through more. I should have waited. I know Finn being taken is entirely my fault, and I plan on doing whatever it takes to make it right. I promise you that."

She lifted her chin, trying to look strong. Trying not to give into her compassion to hold him and forgive him. "How far does that promise extend?"

"All the way. And then a hundred thousand feet farther."

She uncrossed her arms and frowned. Hard. "I–" She stumbled over her words. "Are you saying if you had to, you'd… die for him?"

He brushed his hair back. "I don't wish to see him suffer or die. But if I were to be honest, I'd be doing it mostly for you. So you can have your friend back."

Rey didn't like where this conversation was going. With her hands covering her face, she groaned out her annoyance, almost wanting to scream. "Why does this keep happening?"

"What keeps happening?"

She lowered her arms. "These scenarios where I have to possibly choose between the two of you. Because you both feel like sacrificing yourselves for me when you shouldn't. I've never asked that of either of you."

"You shouldn't choose between the two of us."

His agreement surprised her, throwing her off center for a moment. "Yeah. You're right. I shouldn't. I–"

"Because you should choose Finn."

Rey blanched. "Excuse me?"

He pegged her with one of those stares that held her in place, pulled her in. Convinced her of his conviction. "He deserves your friendship more than I deserve your companionship."

Was this his method of pushing her away? "Ben… you're being unreasonable."

"Hey." Poe came into the main hold from the cockpit. "You guys ready? Jess has the bikes outside." BB-8 whirled up beside him. Poe bent down, patting the little half domed head. "I know you want to come, but I don't know what we're walking into, buddy. Best you stay here." He stood. "We'll be back in a few hours. And I'll even give you an oil bath to make it up to you," he promised with his usual charismatic smile.

They followed Poe off the ship, Rey desperately wanting to finish the conversation with Ben, but seeing no opening to do so. She shelved it for when this was all over. Hopefully, that would be soon.

With only two bikes, there was no choice but to have Ben sit behind her, his hands clutching at her waist. This was one of the reasons she couldn't stay with him in the med alcove. One touch and the intoxication was instant, her body begging her to let his fingers roam over whatever part of her skin he wanted. When it came to chemistry, to real love, her and Ben never held back when they were alone. They would fall into one another, feel the rhythm, move like partners in a dance that was written in their DNA.

He gave her hips a squeeze, not helping the situation. She almost asked Poe to switch with him, but she didn't want to look childish.

She could handle this.

Rey turned to Poe and Jess. "We're on my turf now. So follow my lead and do as I say. Stick close to the path I'm taking, because we'll be getting close to the sinking fields." They nodded in understanding. Rey leaned forward and punched the throttle.

BB-8 watched them leave.

The scorching sun didn't relent, its one malevolent eye unblinking as it lowered to the horizon, the sky it's co-conspirator with not even a wisp of a cloud to relieve them from the harsh rays. Small dust devils blanketed the barren landscape as they traversed Pilgrims Road, the grit stinging even the smallest patches of exposed skin.

They zoomed past some locals, a pair of luggabeasts, and a steelpecker pecking away at the framework of what could've been an A-wing. But those weren't the only indigenous animals Rey recognized. She wasn't sure if the desert heat was playing tricks on her or not, but a few times she could've sworn she saw the triangular head and large red eyes of a nightwatcher worm. Almost like it was following her.

But sandborers weren't known to stalk prey. They waited for movement and snatched their meals quickly. They didn't have the patience to follow something for miles.

Still, she wondered if it was the same one she encountered with BB-8 all those months ago.

Once they were half a mile from the sitter's location, they hid the speeders among the rolling hills so they're arrival could go unheard. As they started the next part of the trek on foot, the world started to transition into a deep orange and red, set afire by the sun delaying its descent into the sharp horizon.

Rey hoped it was late enough that none of the Teedos would be at the pillar, but not too late that the sitter already left.

Along the way, she couldn't stop eyeing Ben. With her attraction to him now bridled, her thoughts kept going back to what he told her on the Falcon. Did he sense something she couldn't about the future? Was he serious about her choosing Finn? It didn't even make sense. Her and Ben were together, so wouldn't he want her to always choose him? Why was he being so relenting?

Maybe he truly was regretful over the circumstances of Finn being taken.

Ben caught her staring, his lips slyly quirking into a grin. Rey quickly switched her sight to Jess and Poe, both of whom were struggling to walk on the loose sand. Rey gave them a few tips on how to not sink into every step.

Poe glanced over at Ben, wiping the sweat from his brow, kicking up sand from his heels. "How is it you know how to do everything?"

"Everything is a very broad pronoun. No one can know everything."

Poe snorted. "You're the size of a Renda bear. You should have sunk into this sand a long time ago."

Ben's lip curled up in that self-satisfied way that came off as pretentious.

Rey picked at the gritty sand sticking to the corners of her eyes. "You're all doing fine," Rey assured them as she pulled down her goggles, the others doing the same as the wind picked up. "And we're almost there."

In the distance she could see the fuzzy outline of a pinnacle. As they got closer, they hiked up the winding steps that wrapped around the spire, stopping when they were right below the infamous man. Rey took a moment to study him up close.

He was human, but his exact age was unreadable. He was skinny and tiny and ancient looking, the rags he wore bleached from too much sun exposure. He sat with his legs crossed, eyes roaming the bland terrain. Almost like he was searching.

Come to think of it, he's facing Carbon Ridge.

Strange.

Rey greeted the man in the most traditional way she knew how. "Hello."

He didn't pay her any heed.

She cleared her throat, raising her voice. "You're known around these parts as the sitter, right? Some believe you to be a prophet. They ask you things, but you never answer."

The man was as still as the skeletal ships that littered this desert planet.

"You used to be one of the dead-enders that guarded Carbon Ridge, weren't you?" The sitter snapped his full attention to Rey, his eyes scrutinizing every inch of her, as if he might recognize who she was.

Rey inwardly scolded herself for using the word "dead-ender". Only locals used that term.

But at least his blatant reaction revealed that her hunch about him was more than likely correct.

"What's down there? Beneath the ridge?" But all the man did was blink. And Rey was growing frustrated.

She stepped forward. "Please, we just want to know–"

"He can't answer you," Ben interrupted, studying the man ardently. "He's physically incapable. His tongue has been removed."

Poe looked at him incredulously. "His…. What?"

Ben spoke while keeping his eyes on the man, his voice almost trance-like. "They cut out his tongue as punishment for venturing too far from Carbon Ridge. They interpreted his actions as him being insubordinate, when all he was doing was being curious about the planet. He was able to get away from them before they could sever some of his fingers, but he couldn't bring himself to leave the planet."

"Why?" Rey asked.

"He wants to see The Well one last time."

Poe raised a sweaty brow. "He wants to see a hole in the ground?"

"To him, it's a holy site; a place of worship. And he's been holding out hope that his time as an outcast would only be transitory."

Something about the sitter's stare and the fact it sounded like he was a radicalized soldier didn't sit well with Rey. But, his fanaticism might actually work in their favor.

"We can help you get back in," Rey offered, trying not to come off as pleading. "You just have to show us the way to get inside."

"He wants to know our reasons for going," Ben said.

"We've heard of artifacts buried beneath the plateau," Rey explained. "We are here to collect them." Which wasn't an outlandish idea. Many had ventured to Carbon Ridge in seek of treasure. Some were never seen again, while others didn't speak of what they saw there.

"He's wondering what a Force user is doing with an expedition group."

"Everyone needs money to survive," Poe chimed in, getting a serious stare from the sitter. "Well, I guess not everyone," he amended, looking over the man's rags.

Rey glared at Poe.

"He'll help us," Ben said, eyes squinting at the man as he fell silent. The two of them just staring at each other. "And he does know of an entrance that was built after the Empire fell. He can lead us there as long as we help him get to The Well."

"Deal," Rey said, accepting the terms.

The Sitter firmly insisted on walking to the plateau, citing that it was easier to conceal themselves on foot. Much to everyone's disgruntlement, they agreed.

The Pilgrims Road was paved with compact sand from the frequency of use, allowing them to move at a faster pace. But even with the impending darkness, the heat remained robust and heavy, making the few miles to their destination taxing.

They followed the man as he led them around the perimeter of the plateau. From the look on everyone's faces, they were all starting to question if he was truly helping them or sending them into a trap. Rey was even starting to second-guess her plan in recruiting him.

But then he stopped, facing what looked to be a sizeable rock formation against the side of the plateau. With fanned out hands, his palms roved across the smooth rocks until one of them disappeared. The man smiled, stepped forward and vanished.

None of them had been expecting such a pristine deception. "If we get separated or run into trouble, meet among those dunes," Rey said, pointing to the west of the rolling mounds. They agreed before hesitantly walking forward, finding the illusion to open into a dark and earthly smelling tunnel.

Immediately Rey doubled over, overwhelmed by an incorporeal wave of hate and malice crashing against her heart, eroding the strong muscle with an undercurrent of poison. Even Poe and Jess, two people who were not Force sensitive, had to balance themselves against the wall, both looking as if they were going to be sick.

A heavy hand rested on her shoulder. "The dark side is strong here," Ben whispered. "Just breathe. Let it pass. If you pay it too much credence, all it will do is spread."

Following his advice, she focused on breathing, imagining her body being purged of such wanton feelings. Her frantic heart calmed, skin cooled. "Better?" he asked not just to her, but to Poe and Jess as well.

Up ahead, the sitter slapped his hand against the black rock wall, impatiently waving for them to hurry. With heavy steps, they continued.

The halls increasingly became more narrow and dark, the work of hollowing out the passageways looking amateur and basic at best. Like someone had taken a pick axe and just kept swinging to pass the time.

Ben hit his head on a hanging light, cursing under his breath.

"How safe is this passageway?" Jess asked from the back.

"Its one of the many tunnels they made when they were assigned here," Ben answered, rubbing at the crown of his head, still in tune with the sitter's thoughts. "This one is not as finished and is rarely used."

They turned, seeing light at the far end of the long tunnel. The Sitter walked faster, making the others quicken. But then Ben stopped, grabbing Rey's arm and not letting Jess and Poe pass.

"There are people up ahead," Ben whispered.

Rey's eyes widened, looking to the sitter.

He doesn't know.

She pulled herself from Ben's grip and ran after the man, needing to warn him. But as she was about to grab his shoulder, he raised an elbow and landed a blow right to her forehead. The skin above her brow tore open, blood pouring into her eyes.

Wiping at her face, her vision was too blurred for her to see anything properly. Then she heard the shouting, could barely make out the shadows that came for her, dragging her fully into the grotto. They pulled at her hair, wrangled her kicking legs, twisted her raging arms.

There were so many of them now, all of them scratching at her clothes and face, the sensations overwhelming her internal focus. But the thoughts of these men entered her mind…

… and she screamed. Amplifying the sound with the Force. The sharp howl reverberated off the rock walls, the men scattering and covering their ears, trying to protect their eardrums from popping.

But she didn't stop herself there. Couldn't.

Something inside her, caged and ravenous, broke free from its prison, convincing her that its power was there to help her. To protect her. It slinked its way across her synapses, down her nerves, infusing with her psyche.

These men were inferior to her and from her position, deserved not to breathe one more breath of this cold, stale air.

In the distance of her mind, Kayani called out to her, but her voice soon faded in the background of Rey's rage.

Connecting every one of the men, she squeezed their life force, wrangling the meaty flesh till bones cracked and hearts gave out. She took their lives with a greedy justice, their limp bodies splattering onto the floor.

The power evaporated once the last breath was paid, leaving Rey bare. Lying on the floor, eyes placated to the ceiling. Tentatively, she looked to the dead corpse beside her, seeing the gore of red blood covering what she believed to be a human face. It was too battered to tell.

All at once, she was hyper aware of everything: the sweat that drenched her skin, the throbbing behind her eyes, her nails digging into her tightly curled fists. Fear tortured her gut, churning her stomach in tense cramps. It overwhelmed her body, making it drastically exhausted.

Rey whimpered, engulfed into her own conscience.

That power, the one she tried to keep suppressed and hidden, had betrayed her. She didn't want this. It made her believe she did. But this wasn't who she was.

"Oh, child…" Kayani said, voice fading.

It was then Rey wished she had never returned to this Force forsaken planet.

()()()()()

Nobody spoke.

There was silence. There was tension. There were dozens of dead men strewed out before them.

Ren held firmly onto Poe and Jess' arms, the three of them unmoving, unblinking. Dirt and grit hung in the air, the minerals becoming unsettled from the large crack down the middle of the rooms ceiling. With each breath, Ren smelled the intermingling of dust and metal.

He gazed at Rey on the floor, and then to the broken bodies that now encircled her. Some were mangled in such a way that it looked as if they were worshipping her.

There was nothing Ren could have done to stop this. Not if he wanted to guard the three of them from what could have been a certain death. Or in the very least, permanent loss of hearing.

He let go of their arms and stepped over the deceased, moving cautiously to the middle. Blood was still pouring from the gash on Rey's forehead, streaming into her hair, matting it all together. He knelt down beside her. Said her name. But all she did was mumble to herself.

"Go and find the sitter," he told Poe and Jess, both still extremely shaken from what they just witnessed. "I'll make sure she's alright." The pair went down an adjacent tunnel, leaving Ren alone.

With steady palms, he held her face and tugged on their bond. It took him a few times before she responded and opened her side unto him – which brought her back from the depths of her own insanity, allowing her to concentrate on his face. But even as there essences brushed against one another, she hid her emotions from him with impressive skill, her need for privacy still so important after all she had just done.

It wasn't like he needed the bond to know how she felt. There was a sadness in her eyes that was all too apparent, the hazel too glossy.

He slid his thumb across her wound, healing her skin, letting some of his warmth and strength seep into her body. With the back of his sleeve, he cleaned her bloodied face as best he could, that bereaved stare uncoiling into tenderness.

Yet, even a hint of her affection could not burn away the fear and worry skulking beneath his need for love. Neither Skywalker, nor himself, ever taught her how to amplify her voice. There was only one other that was close enough to Rey that could have done that.

And Rey had promised him she wasn't keeping in contact with her.

She lied.

But Ben had enough propriety not to bring it up. Not right now.

"Thank you," she said softly. Gathering her into his arms, he lifted her into a sitting position, her eyes involuntarily glancing around. She winced, rerouting her gaze back at him. "I… I couldn't stop. Are Poe and Jess–"

"They're fine."

She closed her eyes in relief. "This place…"

"We never should have come here. We should leave." As he went to stand, Rey stopped him with a firm hand on his wrist.

"The mission," Rey questioned.

Ren balanced himself on the balls of his feet. "It isn't worth it if the cost is this," he said, head nodding to all the dead.

Rey gulped, not allowing her eyes to leave Ren's face. "It is if the galaxy is what's at stake."

"Guys," Poe's voice echoed down one of the tunnels. "You might want to get in here!"

Steadily, he helped her up, guiding her to the corridor so she didn't have to look at the floor. Interlacing her fingers with his, she held onto him tightly, not wanting to let go. The contact was more than welcome, and something Ren had been needing from her over the last day.

The circumstances that caused her to cleave to him, though, were not ideal.

They entered a large cavern and froze next to Jess and Poe as their eyes took in the wide cavity in the middle of the room. A small breeze came out of the deep well, wisps of blue light circulating the opening, a soft orange glow pulsating as if it were alive.

The dark side was potent here. Almost suffocating, even to him. All that energy was emanating from that schism. All that energy was affecting Rey in the worse ways possible.

Ren just wanted to leave, but Rey staunchly refused until they found out what this place truly was.

Over the schism, a platform stretched across the opening. Standing in the middle was the sitter. Eyes closed. Body relaxed. Taking deep breaths as if he could breath in those ethereal wisps, binding the essence to his soul.

The man opened his eyes slowly, head turning to the onlookers. He gave them a nod, took a step forward, and fell into the deep pit, falling straight to Jakku's core.

A few seconds of shock ticked by before the room shuddered, a fierce howl echoing off the chamber walls. The schism glowed and vibrated, the tendrils curling up and up till they hit the ceiling. Then they gradually settled, the auburn glimmer fading back to a soft smolder.

The silence grated Ren's senses. The others were shocked over the particular turn of events. But the sitter wanted this. Made that clear to Ren when they were having their silent exchange at the spire.

"Well…" Poe breathed out. "That guy really was insane."

No one disagreed.

Rey let go of his hand, following Jess and Poe to the edge of The Well, looking down into its endless depths.

Ren stayed back, not wanting to see what was in there. Not wanting to get too close. Because if you stared long enough into the darkness, the darkness stared back. And that was when it claimed you.

"He was a worshipper of the dark side," Ren explained, casting light onto the sitter's motives. "He never believed we were on an expedition. And he knew we wanted to destroy whatever was here. But he didn't care as long as he could become one with whatever is down there."

Poe spun around. "You knew this was what he wanted? And you didn't say anything?"

Ren batted his hand through the air dismissively. "Him killing himself doesn't affect us."

Poe was the only one who gaped at him. But there was no time to discuss Ren's morals in letting the man commit suicide. "We need to find if there's a control room," Poe ordered.

"We need to leave," Ren countered. "Rey cannot stay here."

"I'm fine," she argued, the lines of her face now marked with determination. "We've come this far. I don't want to leave now and for everything that has happened… to be for nothing."

"Are you sure," Jess asked, concerned, touching Rey's shoulder.

"I'm sure."

Ren shook his head, silently disagreeing with the decision. But Rey was stubborn, defiance etched deep into her bones. So Ren stayed close to her as they walked the rounded room.

There were two sets of stairs: one leading up and the other leading down. The one that dropped further into the plateau led to an empty chamber. The other ascended and opened into a short hallway, the sides lined with reinforced glass chambers that held slumbering sleeping droids. They all treaded carefully, not knowing if they were still active.

Passing through the tight corridor, the space opened up into an eight-sided chamber. In the middle was an octagonal shape of computer systems, but they were far from modern. Ren even guessed they were before the Old Republic was ever even founded.

Above the systems was a holo-projection of a section of the galaxy none of them immediately recognized. Something about it, though, seemed to draw Ren in.

He stayed near the map as Rey walked around, looking over the ancient looking technology. Probably itching to take it apart. Ren saw her face light up with fascination, a semblance of her usual self returning. Even the coloring of her skin improved over a matter of seconds.

"Can you make out any of this?" Poe asked Ren, his eyes looking at one of the computer holoscreens. Ren came up beside him, swiping through data of what appeared to be about black holes and an abundance of mathematics and estimates.

Ren read the data carefully, going over the computations in his head to make sure he understood it correctly. "The schism contains a massive amount of dark side energy. More than I initially thought…." he trailed off, quickly reading a set of dates. All of them from the era of the Empire, except one. "It looks like the weapon is due to line up with its target tomor– oh no." Ren's heart sunk into his boots.

Poe became alert. "Oh no? Oh no what? Is it targeting the Resistance? A planet?"

Ren shook his head, quickly speed reading through the plans of projection in hopes he was wrong. He wasn't. "No. The Maw cluster."

"The black holes in the Kessel sector?" Jess asked as she joined them. "Why use the weapon there?"

Ren was too engulfed in the data to answer. He didn't even notice Rey was now next to him. "Ben?" she nudged him gently.

"It's the Celestials," he mumbled before turning to Rey. "Do you remember how I told you that the Maw Cluster is where they closed the opening to their dimension?" Rey nodded. "I think Snoke is going to attempt to open it by using the dark energy stored in that well." Rey jerked her head back, jaw going slack.

Poe crossed his arms, shrugging. "And do what exactly? Go live there? Because I'm not opposed to that."

"He'd most likely try to wipe them out," Ren rebutted.

Surprise flashed across Poe's face. "They can die?"

"They have before. In the Rakatan Wars." Ren wasn't sure if any of them were familiar with that specific era. Thankfully, none of them asked.

"So…" Poe frowned, his mind catching up to what was being insinuated. "If Snoke is able to open the Maw cluster and get rid of the Celestials –"

"He could control the Force," Jess finished, horrified.

"But…" Poe glanced to each person, hoping for a different answer, "the Force is in everything."

"Exactly," Ren said, his heart hammering in his tightly wound chest as he thought of all the other uses for a weapon of this caliber. Every single one of those scenarios meaning the cause and effect for all humanity.

Poe pinched the bridge of his nose, taking a deep breath. "Well, what if he shoots the energy at the black holes and it doesn't cause a rift. What then?"

Ren looked to the map. "There are so many black holes in that cluster that it would cause them to react and destroy the galaxy."

Poe got in his line of sight, showing his frustration. "And how likely is that to happen?"

"Very. The logic behind the theory is sound."

A bitter huff escaped Poe's lips. "You mean the logic in your head."

"I'm not an idiot," Ren growled.

"You're not a genius either. And I thought you said that Snoke was after immortality. He can't really achieve that if he dies while destroying everything."

Ren pursed his lips, trying to keep his fist from contacting Poe's perfectly angular jaw line. "He must be confident enough in his plan to take the risk." Stepping back so Poe was no longer in his personal space, he took in a long breath. "Look, even if I am wrong – which I'm not – the Maw isn't just a portal. It's a prison."

"Prison?" Rey's heightened tone conveyed her shock. "You never mentioned anything about a prison when you told me about the Celestials."

They all looked at him questioningly, like this all was somehow his fault. Ren ran a hand through his hair petulantly. "We don't have time for me to explain everything, but there is a being trapped there who is a pure dark side entity. She's ancient and powerful and dangerous."

Poe narrowed his eyes. "If you even say she can destroy the galaxy–"

"She can destroy the galaxy."

Poe didn't look as if he liked any of those explanations very much. He rubbed his face, muttering to himself, but loud enough for the rest to hear. "I am so not used to dealing with all this magical Force crap. Shooting at a target and watching it explode is a lot more comforting than hypotheticals."

"The Force is not hypothetical," Ren argued. "And everything I've learned about the Celestials I learned from Skywalker. You think he's wrong?"

"No," Jess answered immediately, which wasn't a surprise seeing how Skywalker was her idol.

Rey moved to the computer holos, reading through the data Ren had skimmed.

Poe sighed heavily. "So, basically, each of the three scenarios leave us fucked."

"Unless we destroy it," Rey murmured, her eyes enamored with whatever she discovered in the data.

Jess' brows arched up in distress. "How do we do that without setting the weapon off?"

Rey brought up a holo-imaged blueprint of The Well. "There are vents down near the core that might be containing light energy. With this much dark energy, there has to be an equal amount of light being trapped somewhere." She pointed to the bottom. "The only reasonable place would be there. If we open the barrier and blow this place apart so it can't be reversed, I think it'll dispel the darkness and even itself out without destroying the planet."

Ren stared at Rey with an excessive amount of admiration. He had completely missed the part about the vents. It didn't even cross his mind how it was possible to have such a high concentration of dark energy without it being corrupted. But Rey had worked it out.

Poe studied the outlines before grumbling, "I don't like how you use the words "might" and "think"."

"You have a better plan?" Ren asked, defending Rey's theory.

Poe met his stare, then shook his head, defeated.

Rey looked to Jess. "You still have the explosives?"

She held up the quaint leather bag. "Yeah, but there isn't enough to blow up the whole place."

"There's a reactor beneath this room that powers everything. All we need to do is set them off in here and the reactor will do the rest."

Before they could jump on the plan, Poe asked, "How will we know when to light this place up?"

Ren grabbed an old datapad from the counter, finding that it was already synched to the computer. He pulled up the well's energy levels and handed it to Poe. "Once the readings show they're even, we can initiate the explosives. But not a moment before."

While Ren worked at reversing the barrier at the core, the other three placed the charges around the room, carefully switching them on. Each vent had to be individually opened, which was going to take some time–

"Who are you?"

Ren glanced over his shoulder. An older man, dressed in the usual desert garb, stared at him, the confusion melding into a threat.

Nobody moved. In that frozen second between stand off and fighting, Ren saw the man's eyes flick from him to the others in the room.

This caught the dead-ender off guard, as he was now outnumbered and knew it. The man yelled out, loud enough for his voice to echo across the stony walls and to carry down the hall from where he came.

Ren snapped the man's neck, but the damage was done. He should've killed the dead-ender forthright, but he had hesitated. He never used to hesitate.

"Shit," Poe cursed under his breath.

They hurried with the last of the explosives, but Ren wasn't done at the computers. "Go," he ordered them. "I'll catch up."

Poe and Jess started to argue when Rey cut in. "Get to the rendezvous point. I'll stay with him." They didn't move. "Go!" Rey shouted. Reluctantly, Poe and Jess went through the hallway leading to the well.

Hearing the footfalls coming their way, Rey ignited her saber, stance at the ready, prepared to defend them. "How much time do you need?"

"A minute," he said, eyes on the holoscreen, hands rushing over the controls, blood thumping in his ears. "At most." Ren was barely able to get the last part out before the fight began. He couldn't see the small battle taking place, but he heard the cries and the grunts and the thuds bodies made when they hit the ground. He listened to Rey's saber whirr and hiss against every blaster bolt, and tear apart every weapon not capable of withstanding the plasma blade.

She was a fierce warrior. And Ren was slightly disappointed he couldn't witness it.

Almost…

"Done." But as he turned he saw those sentinel droids filing in from the passage that lead to the well, followed by more dead-enders to join them. Fortunately, Rey had done a superb job at picking off most of the ones blocking the other corridor.

With his power focused, he Force pulled the few remaining dead-enders from the unknown corridor, their bodies flying right into the new mix of men and droids, toppling them over. He grabbed Rey's hand as they sprinted through the unfamiliar pentagonal hall, the steady incline going almost unnoticed, his eyes catching glimpses of the seasoned metal and black glass. To add touch to the dullness, red lighting framed the perimeter, casting about a sinister glow that engulfed all that passed.

They dodged the pillars that prevented the structure from collapsing and came upon a faded gold door. Rey waved her hand at the operating panel, the barrier being pulled up with a loud groan and crack. They didn't wait for it to reach the top before ducking and running straight out into the arid wasteland.

In the midst of twilight, the desert appeared as a vast undulating sea, the shimmer softening from the shadowy silhouettes of the high dunes. Under any other circumstance, Ren would have appreciated it more.

Creating a wide distance between them and the plateau, Ren and Rey started to circle around to the agreed upon meet up location, searching for the silhouettes of Jess and Poe among the dunes.

They slowed and then stopped, both resting their hands on their knees, breathing heavily. Ren spat the thick saliva from his mouth, glancing around. "Where do you think Poe and Jess are?"

Rey spun in a circle, eyes darting. "Maybe they kept going to the speeders."

The back of Ren's neck tingled, his own personal alarm that something was not right.

He chewed at his lip, thinking, "That's too far away," Ren commented. He reached in his pocket for the comm, realizing he had it off the whole time. He turned it on and signaled for Poe.

No answer.

"Ben," Rey said. He looked to her, following her arched head up into the sky. There, he saw the outlines of Star Destroyers just beyond the atmosphere.

Their eyes met, both of their features shifting to extreme worry.

Ren commed Poe again.

And again.

And again.

And just when he was about to bolt the rest of the way to the tunnel's opening, Poe's voice finally came through.

()()()()()

Jess and Poe dashed down the eerie hallway and stairs, circling The Well so they could get to the tunnels.

They skidded to a stop as one by one dead-enders funneled into the cavern, armed with electro-spears and knives. The fighting was immediate, pulling Jess and Poe apart.

As agile as Poe was, his movements were far too slow to take on this many opponents. His blaster was not as useful when it came to close combat, making Poe eager to steal a melee weapon. Multiple pairs of hands tried to seize him, a spear narrowly missing the top of his head. Poe's right fist shot out, connecting. Two dead-enders staggered back and plummeted down The Well, giving Poe a clear view of Jess.

He knew it was going to happen before it did. Saw a man from behind her drawing back his spear, thrusting it forward, lancing right through her back and out her gut.

Poe yelled out to her, but his voice was lost among the clamor.

Getting to Jess was a blur. He didn't remember picking up an electro-scythe, releasing threads of blue energy, slashing the blade back and forth. Cutting down each obstacle that stood between him and Jess. He made it to her just as the man pulled the weapon free, going for a second blow. Poe swung at his throat, killing him before he had the chance.

He switched the scythe out for his blaster as he roped an arm around her waist, spraying the men with a spectacle of bolts. The pair backed up, making it to the descending flight of stairs, the only refuge available. Poe closed and locked the corridor before descending the rickety steps, supporting Jess the whole way down.

The connecting room was round and small, the floor covered in cold compressed dirt, the only source of light coming from a small bulb overhead. The frigid air crawled along his skin, causing his hairs to stand, muscles to tighten.

Poe laid Jess on the floor and went back to locking them in. He could hear the men trying to break through the above corridor. It wouldn't hold for long.

"I don't want to die here," Jess shakily whispered, gulping in air. Poe went to her, trying to console her ravaged shaking while trying to stop the bleeding from her diaphragm. "Not here. Not like this."

He flinched from her proclamation, pressing on the wound harder. She crushed her teeth together, but he didn't concede the pressure. "You're gonna be fine. We're gonna get out of here, and I'll have Ren heal you and everything will be fine. Everything…" but he lost his voice as he saw just how much blood was pooling onto the floor. He stilled for only a moment before getting out his comlink, signaling for Ren.

It beeped, indicating that Ren's comm was not operating. The one time – One. Time. – Poe needed Ren to actually have his comm on and he didn't.

"Poe." Jess grabbed a fistful of his tunic, eyes wide and bouncing across his face. "I'm sorry." Tears fell down her temples, into her ears.

He shook his head, hair tickling his cheekbones. "You have nothing to be sorry about."

"Yes, I do," she disagreed weakly, her grasp falling away as her strength drained. "There's no way out of this room, except through those doors."

Her insinuation was quite clear.

He shushed her softly as he took her in his arms, laying her across his lap. His hand was still on her wound, feeling the warmth of her life seep through his fingers. "It's not your fault. Okay? It's not your fault," he assured her.

Jess slowly breathed through ashened lips, her eyes now having a hard time focusing. "I don't want to die. My parents…"

"… have a daughter who is a hero."

"Heroes don't die."

"The best ones always do."

His face contorted, voice cracking with emotion. Jess started to close her eyes, but he shook her, jolting her awake. "I still have to take you to Biscuit Baron, remember? You said you'd come with me after all this was over."

Weakly, she smiled. "Biscuit Baron. Your taste… is so simple."

"The simplest." He cupped the back of her neck to give support, watching her skin become porcelain. "And even though it would be proper to wait, I would have asked you to marry me after only a few months. Because to hell with being patient." Jess smiled and stared at him like he was the most beautiful skyline she had ever seen. "And we'd have three children, because we know how lonely it can be being an only child. And we'd teach them how to fly, and they would be the best pilots in the galaxy because of us. We would raise them right. And toward the end of our lives, we'd hold our grandchildren and have a legacy of our own." His voice started to seize. "We would've had a good life together. I would have loved you like you deserved."

Slowly, she put her hand over his and whispered, "I know."

The walls of the room vibrated. Poe looked up at the door, waiting to see if they were coming down the stairs. So far, the top corridor still held.

He glanced down. Jess's eyes stared at him distantly. Lifelessly.

Poe shook her. "Jess," he said desperately. He shook her harder, her head falling back, body limp. "Jess!" He took in big heaping breaths before he screamed, the tendons in his neck protruding from the pressure.

She was gone.

Their chance now spent.

It was a love that never came to fruition, never matured. They never were able to come together as two people did when vulnerabilities were set aside and passion became the driving force of experience. But physicality did not matter to Poe. For he had her already in the ways that mattered:

In knowing her.

But he would be seeing her soon. Wouldn't he.

Poe closed her eyes.

As a pilot, he always thought he would die in his X-wing during the midst of a battle long fought. But he wasn't just a pilot. Because of his parents, he had the endurance of a Pathfinder soldier and the spark of a rebel pilot running through his veins.

His whole life he had emulated his mother. But now, death would come as a soldier.

Poe's comlink vibrated. Or had it been vibrating all along?

He accepted the transmission. "Poe!" Ren yelled. "Where are you?"

What should he say?

The comlink lingered close to his lips as he faltered. "I'm still inside."

"Inside?" Poe could almost imagine Ren's know-it-all face becoming confused. It was almost a satisfying picture. "But… the rift will be at equilibrium soon."

Refusing to let go of Jess, he held the comlink between his teeth as he got out the small datapad and detonator from his pocket. He put them gently atop her body, watching the projected countdown on the screen. "Two minutes and twenty one seconds to be exact." Twenty, nineteen, eighteen, seventeen…. "Yeah… I know." Poe stared at Jess's still face, almost believing her to be peacefully sleeping in his embrace. But the pallid color of her skin made it so he couldn't quite pretend.

He swallowed down the lump in his throat, it's weight hitting his stomach. "The thing is… I'm not getting out of here."

"We're coming back for you," Ren said resolutely.

"No–"

"Poe," Rey's voice suddenly came through. "Where's Jess?"

"She's dead," he said, as if in a daze. There was no response on the other end. "She's here… with me." Poe touched her sleety cheek. Slid his fingers down to her chin. "I held her as she went."

Horrified, his eyes widened. This was real. Death was real. All of this was actually happening.

Poe started to cry. But it was more than just crying. It was the kind of desolate sobbing that comes from a person drained of all hope. He covered his face with his free hand, smearing Jess's blood on his skin, his tears mingling with the crimson blotches. The ache that flowed through him was as palpable as blizzard winds, and now, the only person with him was the corpse of the woman he had hoped to be his future.

Through the comm, Poe heard the hurried footfalls against the sand, and then Ren's voice yelling at Rey to let him go. They argued heatedly, some of it indiscernible. There was a thump, probably from their comm dropping while they kept up with the back and forth.

Poe wiped his face. "Hey!" he shouted. The comm fell silent. Even at a time like this, he still had to mediate the two. "Rey isn't letting you come back here because she knows there's no time. The men will break through the doors soon, anyway."

Poe hoped they didn't get through before The Well was finished, because he wanted to go out on his own terms. And take all these crazed pieces of human shit with him.

As if on cue, the upper level gave way, the men rushing down the stairs. The immediate barrier creaked and banged against the hailstorm of fists. It was now only a matter of time before that rusted clunk of a door failed him.

"The detonator and the datapad–"

"Are with me," Poe finished, giving out a sardonic laugh. "What a monumental coincidence, huh? Almost like fate knew that blowing up super weapons is kinda my thing. Can't stop now." He scratched his temple with the comm, hearing nothing but silence on the other end. "That was a joke. You two can laugh."

"You can't do this," Ren ordered. "I–"

"Get Finn," Poe quickly said, not knowing how much time he had left to speak his last words. "You two have to get Finn. He has to make it. Save him, okay? Tell him to live a long life. Whatever kind of life he's always wanted. As a free man."

"Poe…" came Rey's somber voice.

"And BB-8 is yours, Rey." Gods, BB-8. Poe couldn't stop his voice from cracking. "Keep him in your family. Pass him down to your children. He'll like being part of a legacy." Just not my legacy. "He's been by my side for so long. I would've kicked it long ago if it weren't for him." He cleared his throat. "He's yours now."

"I'll take care of him," she promised.

"Tell my father… that who I am is because of him. That I wouldn't be able to do this if it weren't for the way he raised me. He's the best father a man could ever ask for. And make sure Jess' parents know she's a hero. And Ren–"

"Ben. Call me Ben."

A cross between a sob and a laugh came out of Poe's mouth. Here, at the end, he was finally allowed to call the man by his birth name. After everything Ben had done, this gesture was a rapprochement between the two men, all past grievances being forgotten. "Ben." His grip tightened on the device. "Don't go back. Keep fighting and end this war, but don't go back to the person you were."

"I won't."

The chaotic clamor beyond the corridor rose, the dead-enders sounding like a hoard of bloodthirsty Yuuzgan Von warriors, seeking a kill. Even a man as brave as Poe couldn't stop his body from reacting to the situation. "Gods, I'm shaking so bad I can barely hold the comm." He adjusted his grasp and had to prop Jess up some more. The arm that was holding her was starting to falter. "Am I weak for being afraid?"

"No," Ren responded quickly, his voice soft and comforting. Friendly. "Know that what awaits you after this is peace. Your spirit will ascend to a different plane of existence, where you'll become one with the Force. Pain will be non-existent, and you'll be free."

Sounded… pleasant. "Did you go there? When you died?"

…"Yes."

The door was close to breaking now. Poe tensed, pulling Jess closer, letting the comm fall from his sweaty grip. He glanced at the datapad. The Well was now ready. The end was now in his control.

With a trembling hand he grabbed the detonator, his thumb hovering just above the switch. He bared his teeth, growling like a man who had nothing more to lose. "Yeah… come in here and see what'll fucking happen. I dare you."

Time unexpectedly slowed to a languid crawl, like fate was granting him just a few more moments of breath. In the dimness, there was a presence Poe had not felt since his childhood. His head swiveled, searching for it, but found to be alone.

But she was here. He could feel the pressure of her hand on top of his, fingers running through his hair in an attempt to fix his disheveled strands. Like she always did when he was just a boy.

He looked up and saw stars, knowing it to be impossible, but he just smiled. Because he recognized these constellations. These were the ones from his very first memory, when he was only three, sitting in the cockpit of his mom's A-wing. He was in her lap, straddling the flight stick, eventually being allowed to test the ships limits.

His whole life he would've given anything to take another flight with her.

On the tracks of a whisper was his name. So soft. So gentle.

That was when Poe knew that his time in mortality had come to an end. Through his 33 years of existence, he'd accomplished all that was required of him. It would all be okay. He would see his father and friends again. It was just out of all of them, he would take the first step into oblivion.

He blinked, letting the tears fall. "Mom?"

The doors blew open. The dead-enders rushed in. He cleaved onto Jess…

… and was finally able to take one more flight with his mother.

*Hides behind her couch from any incoming projectiles.* I know you guys. I know. You're all probably shocked right now and I understand. This is why this chapter has taken so long to get out. It was hard to kill off Jess and Poe. Especially Poe. But this whole concept has been one of the things I've had planned since the beginning. They were always going to die. I do expect some reviews to be mad about it (I'm looking at you, mom)(She might just disown me for this). I just hope it doesn't ruin the story for you. I know how well liked Poe became, and that was one thing I was not expecting. I didn't think people would gravitate toward his character as much as they have. If it helps, can I bring up how he was supposed to die in TFA? No? I can't? Ok…

You'll probably also see similarities between what was going on in Ben's mind compared to Poe's. They both thought of their mothers at the end. While it might be redundant, I think it's understandable. I also looked at WWII as an example, with many of the young soldiers calling out for their mothers as they bled out. Family is what Star Wars is about. It's what real life is about. So I wanted these characters to think about their family. And while Ben and Poe don't have children, they would most likely think about the awesome women who raised them.

Man, I can't begin to describe how nervous I am to have put this chapter out. I've been freaking out about it, preparing myself for harsh criticism. Ya'll, it's hard having your work judged. One of the reasons I never put myself out there. Writing this fic is the most extroverted thing I've ever done. And I've been involved in theatre productions, for Force sake!

Anyway, now our characters are in an interesting place. Especially Ren. Any guesses as to how he'll react to this? I think we all know how he's going to react to this. I'm really testing the limits of these characters the next few chapters. It's a rollercoaster to the end folks!

I'd also like to add that I used the descriptions of the observatory on Jakku from the Aftermath novel. I didn't come up with the imagery for this place on my own. It was all Chuck Wendig! So this place is canon, I just put my own little spin on it.

I hope you all, well, somewhat enjoyed the chapter? Maybe?

And what about that implication of Reylo at the end of that trailer?! Rey saying she needs to be shown her place in all this, Ren holding his hand out. Yes, I know the scenes are from two different scenes of the movie. But why put them together like that? Hmmmm? Is Lucasfilm hinting at something? Ahhhhhh! I need to see this movie already.

My next update probably won't be until after the movie comes out. I'm slowing down a bit so I don't get frustrated and burnt out. I really want to deliver a great ending for you guys and for myself, and I can't do that while feeling stressed. I hope you all understand! Till next time, may the Force be with you.