Location: New Jedi Temple, Chandrila

Time: Late Afternoon

Date: 6 ABY

The warm, golden light of Chandrila's autumn sun poured into Kata's quarters, painting the simple room in shades of amber. The air carried a crisp chill, the kind that signaled the slow approach of winter. Kata sat cross-legged on her bed, a half-packed travel bag sprawled out in front of her. A mug of sugar-free hot cocoa steamed lazily on the wooden table beside her, its sweet scent with the subtle aroma of dried leaves coming through her open window.

She wore a snug sweater in natural tones, a lightweight scarf, and practical dark trousers tucked into sturdy boots—an outfit as functional as it was appropriate for the season. Despite the task at hand, her mind flitted between thoughts of the upcoming mission to Arkania and the feeling of unease she'd felt from Like.

A knock on her door broke her thoughts.

"Come in, Luke," she called out, already knowing who it was.

Luke stepped in, his expression somewhere between concerned and curious. He leaned against the doorframe, his arms crossed casually but his gaze sharp. "Hey, you alright?"

Kata raised an eyebrow. "Of course. Why wouldn't I be?"

"I'm just asking because... well, you're going on a mission with my father tomorrow. Without me."

She smirked, shaking her head as she folded a thick thermal jacket into her bag. "I don't know how many times I have to tell you, Luke—I don't fear him. I believe you when you say he's changed."

Luke shifted uncomfortably. "Yeah…" he trailed off, his tone heavy with unspoken worry.

"What?" Kata scoffed, tossing a pair of gloves onto the pile. She turned to face him fully, crossing her arms. "You don't trust him, or you don't trust me?"

"It's not that," Luke said quickly, his hands raised in defense. "I guess... I'm worried my father thinks being a warrior for the Republic is the only way to make up for his wrongs."

"If that's the best he can do, then he might as well," Kata replied firmly, her voice carrying a conviction that left no room for argument.

Luke exhaled, running a hand through his sandy hair. "I guess. Are you almost ready for tomorrow?"

"Yeah," she nodded, zipping up one side of the bag. Then her tone shifted, quieter but tinged with curiosity. "What about you? You seem... distracted."

Luke hesitated before stepping further into the room. "Tonight, my father and Master Skoll want me to visit the lower levels to see the entities. I feel... called to one of them. They think it's time I combine with it."

Kata froze mid-movement, her brow furrowing. "Wait—what? Are you sure?"

"Yeah," he said with a slight nod. "When I was on Devaron last time, I saw what their powers could do. And after what happened on Darlyn Boda, it's clear these abilities are effective against the Vong."

Kata sighed, her hand instinctively reaching out to touch his cheek. "Okay... but just promise me you'll be mindful."

Luke grinned at her concern, covering her hand with his own. "I'll try my best."

They stood like that for a moment before Kata pulled her hand back and gave him a playful nudge. "Hey, since you're here... can you help me pack?"

Luke rolled his eyes, a smile tugging at his lips. "Sure, Snips. Based on where you're going, you're gonna need a lot of layers."

"Something I've had to get used to over time," Kata quipped, a glint of humor in her eyes.

Luke stepped closer, rummaging through her wardrobe for an extra scarf and some thermal leggings. "You really think you're ready for Arkania's ice storms? I've heard they make Hoth look like a vacation spot."

Kata chuckled, plucking a scarf from his hands and tossing it into the bag. "I've faced worse than a little cold. Don't underestimate me."

"Plus the trip might be short..." she added.

As they worked together to pack the essentials—gloves, boots, emergency rations—Kata occasionally paused to sip her cocoa, savoring its warmth. Luke watched her, a small smile playing on his lips.

"You know," he said after a moment, "I think you'd make a great diplomat someday."

Kata raised an eyebrow at him, amused. "Oh, really? What makes you say that?"

Luke shrugged, folding a heavy jacket and placing it neatly in the bag. "You've got a sharp tongue, and you don't let anyone intimidate you. Pretty much everything you need to negotiate treaties or scare off warlords."

She laughed, shaking her head. "One mission at a time. Let me survive this one first."

"Fair enough," he replied, zipping up the bag.

They stood there for a moment, the unspoken bond between them stronger than words could express. Finally, Kata smirked and nudged him toward the door. "Now go get ready for your... whatever it is with the gasses. See you later."

Luke nodded, giving her one last smile before slipping out of the room.

Kata turned back to her bag, a quiet determination settling over her. Tomorrow would bring its own challenges, but for now, she was ready.

XX

The elevator doors slid shut behind Luke, leaving him alone in the dimly lit cabin. A metallic hum vibrated through the air as the platform descended, carrying him deeper into the heart of the temple. Down here? It was quiet. Too quiet.

The cold crept in as the elevator dropped, wrapping around him like an uninvited guest. He tugged his cloak tighter, his mind flicking back to Kata. She was heading off on her mission tomorrow, and here he was, delving into the unknown. He sighed, shaking off the thought. She could handle herself. He had to focus.

The elevator came to a smooth stop. The doors hissed open, revealing a long, sterile hallway lit by faint, flickering lights. The walls were smooth durasteel, their dull sheen reflecting the faint glow of the room ahead. Luke stepped out, his boots echoing softly on the floor.

The chamber at the end of the hallway opened up like the maw of a great beast. Inside, four massive clear containers stood in a row, each housing a swirling mass of gas. Yellow. Orange. Red. Green. Next to each stood a matching holocron, their faint glows casting eerie shadows across the room. The air was thick here, almost oppressive, and Luke felt the Force pulsating through every corner.

A small group was already gathered near the containers. Mill Alibeth and Vivert Stag, former Jedi-turned-bounty hunters, were stationed by the control panels. Their casual posture belied the seriousness of their work, datapads in hand. Spectre Seven—former Seventh Sister—stood a few steps away, her arms crossed as she observed the scene.

At the center of it all stood his father. Vader loomed like a shadow, his focus locked on the green container. Beside him, Master Baylan Skoll stood with his usual stoic expression, hands clasped behind his back.

Luke stepped into the room, drawing all eyes. "Hi, Master," he greeted casually, his tone light but respectful.

Spectre Seven offered a small smile. "Hello, my apprentice."

"What brings you here?" Luke asked.

"Your father told me you are called to the green gas," Spectre Seven responds.

"Yeah," Luke said, his eyes drifting toward the swirling green mass. "That's what I've been told."

"You're ready?" she asked.

"Yeah..." he replied, flashing a grin.

Vader's helmet tilted slightly toward Luke, as if to say something, but he remained silent.

Alibeth cleared her throat, breaking the moment. "Luke," she began, gesturing to the green container. "The data we've gathered so far suggests the green entity has sensitivity to the natural world. It's tied deeply to the light side, but able to adapt."

"Good to know," Luke said, nodding. "Anything else I should expect?"

"Yeah," Stag added, not looking up from his datapad. "Once it bonds with you, it might take a little while for your mind and body to sync up. Expect...disorientation."

Luke glanced at his father. "Disorientation? That's it?"

Vader's tone was flat but carried a warning. "It will test you. Be ready."

Luke took a deep breath, stepping toward the container. "Let's do this, then."

Alibeth tapped a few commands into her datapad. With a soft hiss, the container began to open. The green gas swirled violently for a moment before spilling out into the open air, hovering like a living thing. It seemed to study Luke, swirling closer with deliberate intent.

He held his ground as it drifted toward him, his heart pounding in his chest. The moment it touched his skin, it surged forward, diving into his body.

The pain was immediate. Luke's knees buckled, his hands flying to his head as a searing heat spread through him. His body convulsed, spasms racking his frame. He could hear someone shouting—maybe it was him.

"Luke..." Spectre Seven's voice whispered through the chaos, firm but calm.

After what felt like an eternity, the spasms stopped. Luke slumped forward, catching himself on his hands and knees. His breath came in ragged gasps as the room slowly came back into focus.

Vader's voice was the first to break the silence. "What do you feel?"

Luke blinked, struggling to form words. "Nature far from the city," he muttered, his voice distant. "Fields. Trees. Life. It's...overwhelming."

Baylan stepped forward, his expression unreadable. "You'll need time to adjust. The energy will settle, but expect heightened sensitivity for the next few hours. Rest won't come easily tonight."

"Great," Luke said, his tone dripping with sarcasm as he pushed himself to his feet. "Anything else I should know?"

Spectre Seven stepped closer, her hand on his shoulder. "You did well. Let's get you back upstairs. You'll feel better after some fresh air."

Luke nodded, leaning into her touch for a moment before straightening. "Thanks."

As they turned to leave, Vader spoke again, his tone softer than usual. "You've taken an important step. Be vigilant, Luke."

Luke glanced back, offering a small smile. "I will. Goodnight, Father."

Spectre Seven walked with Luke through the halls, the silence between them comfortable.

"You can walk?" she asked after a while.

"Yeah. Just...processing," Luke replied. "It's a lot to take in."

She nodded. "Well like always, you'll get through it."

They reached his quarters, and she stopped just outside the door. "Get some rest. See you tomorrow?"

He smiled. "Yes thanks, Master."

With that, the door slid shut, leaving her alone in the hallway.

XX

Vader stood in silence, his imposing frame casting a long shadow over the dimly lit chamber. His gaze lingered on the remaining entities, their presence flickering like distant echoes of a fading storm. The silence was oppressive, broken only by the rhythmic hiss of his respirator.

Baylan Skoll stepped forward, his boots clicking softly against the polished floor. His expression was unreadable, but his tone carried a measured gravity as he spoke.

"Lord Vader," he began, "I believe on our recent mission, we didn't use the full capability of our powers."

Vader's helmet tilted slightly, acknowledging the statement. "A valid observation. But unlocking those abilities will take time."

For a moment, the room fell silent again, the chill deepening as Vader's voice hung in the air.

He lowered his head slightly, the faint glow of the remaining entities reflecting off his dark armor. "Last mission, we dealt with Vong and scattered criminals. Next time, we will encounter more civilians. It is important that we minimize damage and casualties."

Baylan's brow furrowed, skepticism flashing in his eyes. "I don't believe that's possible. Civilian casualties are an inevitable consequence of war."

"That is why," Vader said, his tone sharper now, "I said minimize, Master Skoll."

Baylan dipped his head slightly, conceding the point. "Very well. Even so, I find it surprising that we remain on standby. It feels... counterproductive."

Vader's gaze shifted, the mechanical growl of his respirator punctuating the pause. "Grand Admiral Thrawn has advised caution. There are critical projects underway—ones that will heavily bolster our naval capabilities."

Baylan's eyes narrowed. "He's still under house arrest, isn't he? His strategies remain sound, but he can't oversee operations."

"I am aware," Vader replied, his tone unwavering. "That is why I await his release..."

Baylan's lips tightened into a thin line. "The more time we wait, the more systems fall under our fingers," he warned.

"There are other fleets engaging the enemy," Vader countered.

"And their progress?" Baylan pressed.

"Mostly stalemates," Vader said firmly, the single word carrying the weight of grim reality.

Baylan exhaled sharply, pacing a few steps before turning back. "I see. So you intend to wait and see how this unfolds?"

"Correct," Vader replied without hesitation. "Even with our resources, timing is everything. We must strike decisively, not recklessly."

Baylan regarded him for a long moment before nodding. "As you say, Lord Vader."

The two stood in silence, the air between them charged with unspoken tension.

XX

The morning light filtered through the tall windows of the temple, casting warm, golden beams onto the polished floors. The air hummed softly, a stark contrast to the tension swirling inside Kata Akuna. Her steps were hurried but purposeful as she moved toward the temple's central hall, her backpack slung over her shoulder and a modest suitcase in hand.

As she passed the serene garden courtyard, Jedi healer and caretaker Barriss Offee appeared from an adjacent corridor, her robes trailing behind her. She raised a hand in greeting.

"Good morning, young one," Offee said, her tone calm, like the gentle rustling of leaves.

Kata offered a small bow. "Good morning, Master Offee."

"I hear you're heading out on a mission today," Offee remarked, a note of curiosity in her voice.

"Yes... with Lord Vader," Kata replied, her words tinged with nervous energy. "I'm supposed to shadow him."

Barriss's expression softened, her eyes narrowing slightly in thought. "And where does this mission take you?"

"Arkania," Kata answered after a pause. "We're there to... discuss creating a bioweapon against the Vong."

Offee froze mid-step, her composure briefly slipping. "A bioweapon, you say?"

"Yes," Kata admitted reluctantly.

Barriss's gaze grew distant, as if peering into a past she had tried to leave behind. "I fear this conflict is taking us down a dangerous path," she murmured.

Kata tilted her head, curiosity piqued. "Why do you say that?"

Barriss sighed, her hands clasped in front of her as they continued walking. "Because I remember the Clone Wars, padawan. The Jedi were warriors in service to a failing government then, too. I see echoes of those mistakes in what we face now."

"But the Jedi helped free the galaxy from the Empire," Kata countered, frowning. "What makes you think the government is failing now?"

Barriss hesitated, the weight of her years evident in her silence. At last, she said, "The Outer Rim. It has always been neglected, no matter who sits in power. The Vong aren't mindless destroyers. They've gained support from the Outer Rim worlds, and not without reason."

"Do you think the Outer Rim could thrive on its own?" Kata asked, her voice quiet.

Barriss stopped, turning to face Kata fully. "Perhaps. But history tells us such separations rarely happen without pain. The path ahead will be made with difficult choices, young one."

Kata looked down, her mind churning with conflicting thoughts. The idea of a bioweapon sat heavy in her conscience, but the Vong threat loomed large. How could anyone know the right answer when not much was understood about them?

Before she could voice her turmoil, a shadow stretched over her. The faint hiss of a respirator filled the space. She looked up to see the towering figure of Lord Vader—Anakin Skywalker now, though his presence still carried the weight of his former title.

"Good morning, Kata," Anakin said, his voice a low rumble. "Are you ready for the mission?"

Kata hesitated, stealing a glance at Barriss, whose expression was a mix of sympathy and worry.

"Master Offee," Anakin said, turning his attention to her. "Kata will be in good hands. This mission is as much a learning opportunity as it is a necessity."

Barriss's lips pressed into a thin line, but she gave a small bow. "Very well, Lord Vader. May the Force be with you both."

"And with you," Anakin replied, inclining his head.

Kata adjusted her backpack, following Anakin as he strode toward the landing bay. She glanced over her shoulder one last time, catching Barriss's lingering gaze. The healer's concern was evident, but Kata knew there was no turning back now.

XX

The dimly lit corridors of the Jedi Temple stretched before them, the faint hum of distant energy cores adding a rhythmic undertone to their steps. Kata walked alongside Vader, her shorter stride making up for his measured pace. The silence between them was comfortable, a rarity she'd learned to cherish.

The soft echo of their boots on the marble floor was interrupted by a voice, groggy but unmistakable.

"Kata! Father!"

Both turned, the faintest surprise flickering in Kata's expression. Standing there, framed by the warm glow of an overhead light, was Luke. His hair was tousled as if he'd just rolled out of bed, and he rubbed his temple like he was fighting off a persistent headache.

"My son," Vader greeted, his tone laced with a mix of formality and warmth. "I assume rest wasn't well?"

"No, sadly," Luke replied, voice heavy with sleep. "Kept waking up in the middle of the night."

Kata tilted her head, concern in her gaze. "You're here to say goodbye, Luke?"

"Yes, Kata," he said, his words steadying as he spoke. "I wanted to wish you well. And—" his voice softened, "—I hope you find the right moments to speak up. This mission isn't just about shadowing my father. It's about becoming your own person. Don't get too caught up in expectations. Just... let it come naturally. See where the path takes you."

Kata blinked, momentarily caught off guard by his sincerity. "Thanks, Luke," she said, her voice low but genuine.

Luke turned his attention to Vader, squaring his shoulders slightly. "I take it you've told her about Arkanian customs?"

Vader inclined his helmet with a nod. "Yes. Be of utmost respect as guests. Mind your pleasantries, your words. The Arkanians value precision, in speech and action alike."

A small grin tugged at Luke's lips. "Right..."

Kata chuckled softly, but Vader tilted his helmet toward Luke, the faintest hum from his vocoder betraying something like amusement.

"I've also heard," Vader began, voice edged with dry curiosity, "that you've been calling Kata by my former apprentice's nickname."

Luke's grin faltered, and he scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Uh… yeah. I guess I see some parallels in our dynamic."

"I see." Vader paused, the weight of his mechanical breath filling the brief silence. "Just don't let her linger too much in anyone's shadow."

"Yes, father," Luke replied, slipping unconsciously into the formal tone of his training. "I'll be mindful."

Kata, her heart warmed by the exchange, stepped forward and threw her arms around Luke in an impulsive hug. Luke stiffened in surprise before easing into the embrace, giving her an awkward but genuine pat on the back.

When they pulled away, Luke extended his hand to Vader. The handshake that followed wasn't just one of respect; it was heavy with mutual understanding.

As Kata and Vader turned to continue down the corridor, Luke's voice rang out again.

"Kata!"

She stopped, glancing back over her shoulder.

"Good luck," Luke said, sincerity shining in his tired eyes.

Kata smiled, a wide, toothy grin that carried her thanks better than any words could. Without another word, she turned back, her boots clicking lightly as she fell into step beside Vader. The hangar loomed ahead, its bright lights casting long shadows behind them.

She tightened her grip on the strap of her bag, her mind swirling with Luke's advice, the weight of the mission, and the silent presence of the man walking beside her.

XX

The T-6 shuttle exited hyperspace with a faint shudder, its engines humming steadily as it approached the ice-covered planet of Arkania. The view through the cockpit window was breathtaking: a blanket of white stretched as far as the eye could see, broken only by jagged, snow-capped peaks that pierced the horizon like frozen daggers.

Huyang's voice broke the silence, crisp and precise as ever. "We are entering Arkanian airspace. The landing coordinates have been received. Please ensure your cloaks are adjusted for the cold; temperatures outside are—well, let's just say, less than accommodating."

"Noted," Vader replied curtly, seated stoically in the co-pilot's chair.

Huyang, ever the cautious droid, kept his tone polite but distant when addressing Vader. His unease was almost palpable. "Ah, yes, very good. Now, Miss Akuna," he said, turning to Kata with a distinct shift in tone. "Might I say, I wish you well with these diplomatic adventures."

"Thanks, Huyang," Kata replied with a smile, glancing at Vader, who remained unmoved by the droid's blatant avoidance of him.

"Prepare for entry," Huyang announced as the shuttle breached Arkania's atmosphere.

The ship trembled slightly, buffeted by icy winds, as the planet's surface came into view. Mountains jutted upward like icy monuments, their peaks shimmering with frost. The valleys below were dotted with sparse settlements, their structures encased in crystalline ice. Far in the distance, a massive structure carved into the side of a mountain came into view—the Ice King's castle.

"It looks cold even from up here," Kata muttered, pulling her cloak tighter around her shoulders.

Vader didn't respond. His focus remained on the castle, a fortress as intimidating as the people it represented. Thrawn's crash course on Arkanian culture played through his mind: an elitist society priding itself on genetic purity, brilliance in science, and an unwavering expectation of obedience from outsiders. Negotiations would not be easy.

The shuttle touched down in a clearing near the castle, its landing gear sinking slightly into the snow-covered ground. A group of figures awaited them at the base of the landing ramp, their pale, angular faces stark against the icy backdrop.

These were not pureblood Arkanians but a genetic offshoot species—noticeably more robust, with features less refined. Vader noted this without comment, descending the ramp with Kata at his side.

"We will escort you to the council chamber," one of the figures said, his tone clipped and formal.

The castle's interior was as cold as its exterior, with icy walls that refracted light into dazzling patterns. They passed through long halls adorned with crystalline sculptures, the air heavy with the weight of tradition and pride.

Finally, they entered the council chamber, a grand space where high-ranking Arkanians sat in elevated seats, their piercing white eyes assessing the newcomers. Vader and Kata bowed low, the silence stretching until the lead Arkanian spoke.

"You may rise," he said, his voice sharp and commanding.

Vader straightened, his imposing frame dominating the room. "It is an honor to serve the Arkanians," he began, his voice steady and authoritative. "I pledge to protect you from the Vong, who seek to exploit lower societies to incite revolutions and chaos."

The council members exchanged glances but said nothing, their expressions unreadable.

"I stand with the strategy proposed by my naval officers," Vader continued. "It is only a matter of time before the Vong spark chaos within the Colonies."

He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "Your people are unrivaled in genetic engineering—specifically, the development of biological weapons. I have medical records my forces obtained from battles with the Vong. With your expertise, you can create a weapon to turn the tide."

A murmur spread through the council before one of the members stood. "Your request is feasible, but such an endeavor would require significant resources."

Vader turned to Kata, giving her the slightest nod.

"Your people will be paid greatly for your services," Kata said, her tone confident but measured.

The same Arkanian responded, his gaze sharp. "Five billion credits," he repeated, his voice firm.

Kata nodded, keeping her composure. "We agree to your terms, sir."

All eyes shifted to Vader, waiting for his confirmation. He inclined his helmet slightly. "It shall be done."

With the deal struck, the negotiations moved to formal pleasantries and paperwork before Vader and Kata were finally dismissed.

XX

The icy wind bit at their faces as they exited the castle, negotiations and signatures finalized. Huyang greeted them enthusiastically at the top of the ramp.

"Ah, you've returned! How did it go?" he asked, his tone light but curious.

"All went well," Vader replied simply, stepping into the warmth of the ship.

Kata lingered, brushing the snow from her cloak. "Master," she began as the shuttle lifted off, "how will we manage such a massive payment?"

Vader's helmet turned slightly, his tone calm but firm. "Kata, do you know what authority I hold over the military?"

She hesitated, then said, "I think, since we're at war, you have more control over the military than even the Senate."

"You are close," Vader replied. "This authority has been mine even since the Empire's peace with the Alliance. Funding such efforts is well within my command."

Kata exhaled, relieved. "I see. So, no problem then."

"No problem," Vader affirmed.

After a brief pause, Kata spoke again, her voice tinged with doubt. "I don't feel like I really contributed much to the mission. And it was short too..."

Vader's tone softened slightly. "I understand, Kata. But you must adopt the same mindset we all must in this war: patience. Take it day by day, and know that your time will come."

Kata nodded, the words sinking in as the shuttle soared into the frozen sky.

XX

The low hum of the T6 shuttle filled the small cabin as it sped through hyperspace, the stars stretched into glowing streaks outside the viewports. In the cockpit, Huyang's precise movements on the controls seemed unnecessarily stiff. The ancient droid kept a noticeable distance from Vader, whose imposing figure loomed silently behind him.

Huyang's voice broke the silence, directed to Kata in a far more personable tone. "Would you like me to recalibrate the training saber you've been using? I noticed some inconsistencies in its feedback cycle during our last session."

Kata, seated at a nearby console, perked up. "Really? Thanks, Huyang. I thought I was just swinging it wrong."

"No, no. The issue lies entirely in the mechanics. Rest assured, I'll have it functioning perfectly," Huyang said brightly.

Vader didn't react to the droid's avoidance of him, focusing instead on the mission ahead. His mind cycled through Thrawn's crash course on Arkanian culture—genetic superiority, rigid obedience, and a deeply ingrained pride in their scientific prowess. Negotiating with them had gone smoother than expected, though he knew the deal was only one small piece of a much larger strategy.

The shuttle's comm console beeped sharply, drawing Vader's attention. A transmission, routed on a familiar frequency, awaited his response. Removing the mask of his helmet, he stepped toward the terminal.

When the image flickered into view, Luke's face greeted him. "Ah, Father."

Vader nodded. "Luke. We've completed the mission on Arkania. An agreement has been reached, and genetic samples have been sent for their research. Funds will follow shortly."

Luke's expression remained serious. "Good. I have news."

Vader leaned slightly forward. "I'm listening."

"Cal and I uncovered information about a former Imperial facility on Weyland. Are you familiar?"

The mention of Weyland brought an immediate flood of memories. Vader's voice was measured as he replied, "Yes. Weyland was used for genetic experiments under the Emperor's orders. The records I found during the war were vague. He was clearly hiding something."

Luke nodded. "From what we've gathered, the experiments were destroyed a year or two after the Clone Wars ended. But there are rumors of artifacts or treasures buried."

"You wish for us to join Cal in investigating?"

"Yes," Luke said simply. "Cal's psychometry might reveal details we'd miss, and you and Kata can provide the strength needed for any… issues."

Vader crossed his arms. "Will we have droid excavators to assist?"

"I've arranged for their deployment," Luke confirmed. "Cal and Merrin are already en route."

"Very well. We will change course immediately."

Luke inclined his head. "Thank you, Father. May the Force be with you."

"And with you."

The transmission ended, leaving the cabin momentarily silent.

Kata entered the room, her curiosity evident. "What was that about?"

"Change of plans," Vader said, adjusting his gloves. "We're diverting to Weyland. Cal and Merrin are already en route. They've uncovered potential remnants of Palpatine's experiments."

Kata frowned slightly. "I thought I was supposed to shadow you, just the two of us."

"Learn to adapt, Kata," Vader replied, his tone firm but not unkind. "Perhaps Cal can teach you the ways of the archaeologist."

Kata smirked. "You mean of holocrons, right? Cal's not exactly a traditional one."

"There is more to his story than you realize," Vader said evenly. "You shouldn't hesitate to ask questions about the lives of others."

"Even if it's personal?" Kata asked, her sass creeping into her voice.

"Is it personal to ask something as simple as his motivations?"

Her sass faded as she realized she was being called out. "No, I guess not."

"Good," Vader said, turning to face her fully. "Now I see why Luke calls you 'Snips.'"

Kata huffed but recovered quickly. "You always say to be my own person. I'm working on it."

Vader inclined his head. "Yes. And you're doing well. Each mission builds your strength, even when the results aren't immediately visible."

She nodded, the conversation settling into a reflective quiet.