"Alright," Leia answered, "Let's talk about being a covert operative."
The next hour passed in a blur. There were, Leia explained, three messages every operative had to know how to convey when behind enemy lines; An attack is coming- run, there is a traitor among you, and I need to get out- help.
Then it was time to go.
They stood in the entryway. The blinding expanse of Ilum stretched out in front of them, empty but for the dark ship.
"Rey," A soft voice called to her.
She turned to Poe. Reaching under his shirt, he pulled a long, copper chain out from under the material. A small circular pendant hung from it. Holding the pendant in his fingers, he twisted it with his other hand and circle opened up to reveal a hidden design. The symbol of the resistance.
"If the time ever comes that you need the help of our allies, show them this. They'll know you're one of us."
She held out her hand but instead he stepped close and lowered the chain over her head. Squeezing her upper arm gently, he whispered, "Stay safe. Come back to us." His breath was warm against her cheek and he stayed for a moment, his hand on her skin.
When he moved away, Rey gave a shaky nod and tucked the pendant under her shirt. Her eyes fell on Leia. The older woman held out her arms and Rey felt herself enfolded in warmth and strength. Tears pricked her eyes again. Leia said in a voice too soft for Poe to hear, "It's not your job to save my- Kylo Ren. He's made his choices. You're an operative of the resistance. Your job is to gather intelligence." When they stepped back from each other Leia opened her mouth and hesitated. Then she said, "Just remember- you always have a choice."
Rey nodded slowly. Behind her the ship's gangplank rolled out.