The interior of the small stone dwelling was cooler than the desert outside, providing a much-needed refuge for Gine and her sons. The air inside was still, a welcome contrast to the scorching wind that had battered them outside. Gine sat cross-legged on a simple woven mat near the far wall, holding Kakarot close to her chest as she fed him small sips of water. Still wide-eyed from the ordeal, Raditz was quietly nibbling on a piece of dried meat that the stranger had given him earlier.
The stranger—who had offered them shelter, water, and now food—was still a mystery to Gine. She had been cautious at first, unsure of his intentions, but the fact that he had saved them from certain death in the desert had begun to ease her fears. The man moved about the room with quiet, deliberate motions, never making more noise than necessary. Now hanging loosely from his shoulders, his cloak revealed a simple, sand-colored tunic beneath. Though weathered and tired, his face held a calmness that Gine couldn't quite place. There was something steady about him, something reassuring.
The man glanced over at her as he finished adjusting the fire pit in the corner of the room. The soft glow of embers cast long shadows on the walls. His eyes lingered on her momentarily before he spoke, his voice low but kind.
"You're not from around here, are you?" he asked, his tone more a statement than a question.
Gine stiffened slightly, her hand freezing mid-motion as she fed Kakarot another sip of water. Sitting beside her, Raditz looked up from his food, his sharp Saiyan instincts picking up on the tension in his mother. Gine's heart began to race, but she kept calm. She hadn't told this man anything about where they were from, hadn't mentioned Saiyans, Planet Vegeta, or the destruction that had sent them fleeing through space. And yet, here he was, seemingly knowing more than he should.
Seeing her hesitation, the stranger raised a hand in a gentle gesture of apology. "I'm sorry if I've made you uncomfortable. It's just… well, I have a bit of a knack for reading people."
Gine's grip on Kakarot loosened slightly as she allowed herself to breathe again. The man's voice was soft, almost soothing, and though she still felt wary, his tone had no malice. He hadn't asked her anything directly; he was simply making an observation. And somehow, that put her at ease, if only a little.
"You…" she began cautiously, searching for the right words. "You're right. We aren't from here. But how could you tell?"
The man smiled faintly, though there was something tired in his eyes as if he had seen more than his fair share of trouble. He pulled a small stool closer to the center of the room and sat down across from Gine, his hands resting on his knees.
"It's in the way you move," he said thoughtfully, his gaze steady but not intrusive. "The way you carry yourself. You've clearly faced hardships—more than most people who end up here. But there's something else. Something… different."
Gine raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued despite her lingering wariness. "Different, how?"
The stranger leaned back slightly as if considering how much to say. "It's hard to explain. But let's just say I've come across enough people in my time to recognize when someone has seen the worst of the universe."
Gine swallowed hard, her mind flashing back to the destruction of Planet Vegeta, to the image of Bardock standing against Frieza's overwhelming power. The worst of the universe… That phrase felt all too fitting.
The stranger seemed to sense her unease and gave a small nod, his voice gentler now. "I didn't mean to pry. I only wanted to offer you some peace of mind. You and your children… you've been through enough already."
Gine looked down at Kakarot, who was dozing lightly in her arms, his small tail curled around her wrist. Raditz had gone back to quietly chewing on his food, but his eyes kept flickering between her and the stranger, clearly trying to piece things together himself.
For a long moment, Gine remained silent, weighing her options. She had no reason to trust this man, not truly. But then again, he had given them shelter, water, and food without asking for anything in return. And more than that, there was something about him, something calm and genuine, that made her feel… safe.
Taking a deep breath, Gine finally spoke. "I guess I owe you an introduction, then." She offered a small, hesitant smile. "My name is Gine. And these are my sons—Kakarot and Raditz."
At the sound of his name, Raditz perked up, looking between his mother and the stranger with a mixture of curiosity and pride. Gine could see the flicker of confusion in the stranger's eyes as he processed the unfamiliar names, but he didn't comment on them. Instead, he gave a small nod of acknowledgment.
"It's nice to meet you," he said simply, his voice as calm as ever. "I'm glad I could help."
Gine hesitated for a moment, then decided to move forward with the conversation. She glanced down at Kakarot, who was now fast asleep in her arms, his breathing soft and steady. Raditz leaned against her side, his exhaustion catching up with him as well.
"You've been kind to us," Gine said softly, her voice tinged with gratitude. "But we still don't know your name. You didn't tell us before."
The man was silent momentarily, his eyes distant as if lost in thought. Gine watched him closely, wondering what was going through his mind. He seemed… reluctant, almost as if revealing his name was a weight he wasn't sure he wanted to bear.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he spoke.
"Ben," he said simply, his gaze meeting hers with a quiet intensity. "You can call me Ben."
Gine blinked, surprised by the name's simplicity, though she could sense there was more behind it than he was letting on. She had expected something more… mysterious, given his cryptic nature. But "Ben" was a name as ordinary as it came. And yet, the way he said it, with that calm, steady confidence, somehow made it feel more significant.
"Ben," Gine repeated, testing the name on her tongue. It felt strange, almost too simple for someone who carried himself with such quiet strength.
Ben smiled faintly, though the corners of his eyes seemed to carry a deeper sadness, which weighed heavily on him despite his calm demeanor.
"It's not much of a name," he admitted, "but it's enough."
Gine nodded slowly, still unsure what to make of him but feeling a growing sense of trust nonetheless. "Well, thank you, Ben. I don't know how we would have survived out there without your help."
Ben waved a hand dismissively as if brushing off the praise. "There's no need to thank me. You're safe now, and that's what matters."
A heavy silence settled between them, broken only by the soft crackle of the fire and the distant sound of wind whistling outside. Gine could feel the weight of exhaustion pressing down on her, but there was still so much she didn't understand. Why had Ben helped them? Why was he out here in the middle of nowhere? And how had he known they weren't from this world?
But as she looked down at her sons—Kakarot fast asleep in her arms and Raditz leaning tiredly against her side—Gine realized those questions could wait. For now, they were safe. They had food, water, and shelter. And after everything they had been through, that was more than enough.
Ben rose from his seat and moved toward the back of the small room, retrieving a few more blankets and setting them down near the fire. "You and your children can rest here for as long as you need," he said quietly. "I'll keep watch."
Gine opened her mouth to protest, saying she didn't want to impose any further, but the exhaustion in her bones made it hard to argue. Instead, she simply nodded, offering Ben a grateful smile.
"Thank you," she whispered again, her voice barely audible over the crackling of the fire.
Ben gave a small nod in return, then turned his attention back to the flames, his expression unreadable as he stared into the flickering light.
As Gine lay down beside her sons, pulling the blanket around them, she couldn't help but wonder who this man—this "Ben"—really was. There was something about him, something she couldn't quite place. But for now, she was too tired to think about it.
For now, she would rest.
The next morning arrived quietly, with the twin suns rising over the horizon, casting the desert in a pale, golden light. The heat was already beginning to seep into the small stone dwelling, though inside, it was still comfortably cool compared to the oppressive temperature outside. Gine stirred from where she lay beside Kakarot and Raditz, their small bodies nestled under the blanket that Ben had provided the night before.
Her muscles ached from the physical toll of their journey and the emotional weight she had been carrying since Planet Vegeta's destruction. The memory of Bardock's last stand still haunted her dreams—his fierce, defiant face as he faced Frieza's overwhelming power. Gine shook the thought from her mind as she glanced down at her sons. Raditz was still asleep, curled up tightly under the blanket, while Kakarot let out a soft whimper in his sleep, his tiny fist clenching around the edge of the cloth.
Gine sighed quietly, gently brushing a lock of hair away from Kakarot's face. For now, they were safe. They had survived. But what came next? She had no idea where they were, no idea how far they were from what had once been home. Everything felt so uncertain, and fear gnawed at the edges of her thoughts despite the safety of the moment.
The sound of footsteps drew her attention, and Gine turned to see Ben moving about the room, already awake and preparing something over the fire pit. He moved quietly, with the same calm, deliberate movements she had noticed the night before. There was something steady about him—something that seemed unshakable, even in the face of the chaos they had just survived.
Gine sat up slowly, careful not to wake the boys. She felt a dull ache in her limbs as she rose to her feet, stretching slightly before walking over to where Ben stood. The faint smell of something cooking filled the air—something simple but warm, and the thought of food made Gine's stomach rumble.
Ben glanced up as she approached, his eyes calm and unreadable. "You're awake," he said, his voice as steady as ever. "How did you sleep?"
Gine managed a small smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "As well as I could, all things considered. The boys… they needed the rest."
Ben nodded, stirring the small pot over the fire. "It's good that you all got some sleep. You'll need your strength."
Gine's brow furrowed slightly at his words. She hadn't even begun to think about what came next. All she knew was that they had survived the immediate danger. But now, as the weight of the situation pressed down on her, she realized how lost they truly were.
"Ben…" she began slowly, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "What… what is this place? This planet?"
Ben's gaze shifted toward her, his expression thoughtful. He seemed to hesitate for a moment as if choosing his words carefully. "This is Tatooine," he said finally, his voice quiet but clear. "It's a desert world on the Outer Rim, far from the galaxy's Core. Isolated. Remote."
Gine blinked, processing his words. The Outer Rim? The Core? She didn't fully understand these terms, but they carried an undeniable weight. She could feel the truth of it sinking in, like a stone dropping into her stomach. This wasn't just a different planet—they weren't in their galaxy anymore.
"You mean…" Gine's voice wavered slightly as the realization hit her. "We're… in a different galaxy?"
Ben gave a slow nod, his gaze steady but sympathetic. "It seems so."
Gine's breath caught in her throat, and she turned her gaze toward the small window, where the twin suns hung high in the sky. A different galaxy. They were farther from home than she had ever imagined possible. The weight of it was overwhelming, and for a moment, she felt dizzy with the enormity of it all.
"I don't… I don't know what to do," Gine admitted quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. She hadn't meant to say it out loud, but the words slipped from her lips before she could stop them. Her mind raced with questions—how could she protect her sons in this place? How could they survive in a galaxy so foreign to everything they knew?
Ben was silent momentarily, his gaze thoughtful as he regarded her. "I understand how difficult this must be for you," he said gently. "Finding yourself in a place so far from home… without knowing what comes next. But you've already done the hardest part. You survived."
Gine bit her lip, her heart aching with the memory of everything they had lost. Yes, they had survived, but at what cost? Bardock was gone, Planet Vegeta was gone, and now they were alone—lost in an unfamiliar galaxy with no clear path forward.
"I'm glad we made it this far," Gine said softly, her eyes downcast. "But I don't know what to do now. This place… it's so different. I don't know anything about it. How can I protect my sons when I don't even know where we are?"
Ben's expression softened, and he stepped away from the fire pit, moving closer to where Gine stood. "You're stronger than you think," he said quietly. "You've already protected them by bringing them here. And you'll keep doing it. One step at a time."
Gine looked up at him, her eyes filled with uncertainty. She wanted to believe his words and that she could keep her sons safe. But the fear of the unknown was suffocating.
For a long moment, they stood in silence, the crackling of the fire the only sound between them. Finally, Ben spoke again, his voice careful but curious.
"Where do you come from?" he asked, his tone gentle. "You and your sons—how did you end up here?"
Gine hesitated, her heart racing. She had been so careful not to say too much the night before. She didn't know how much she could trust Ben, even though he had given them shelter and saved their lives. Could she tell him the truth? Could she tell him about Planet Vegeta, Saiyans, and Frieza's destruction?
But as she looked into Ben's calm, steady eyes, she felt a strange sense of trust—a sense that this man wasn't a threat. He had saved them without asking for anything in return, and something about him, something quiet and kind, made her feel like she didn't need to hide.
Taking a deep breath, Gine decided to tell him—at least part of the truth.
"We're… from a planet called Vegeta," she began, her voice slow and measured. "It's… it was a world where our people lived. We were part of a race called Saiyans."
Ben listened quietly, his expression unreadable but attentive. He didn't interrupt or ask questions, letting her continue at her own pace.
"Our planet was destroyed," Gine continued, her voice growing softer as the memories resurfaced. "By someone named Frieza. He… wiped out our entire race. My husband—Bardock—he stayed behind to fight, to try and stop it, but…" She trailed off, her throat tightening with emotion. She didn't need to finish the sentence. The pain of Bardock's death was still too fresh, too raw.
"I managed to escape with my sons," Gine said after a moment, her voice barely more than a whisper. "We ended up here. I don't even know how."
Ben's expression remained calm, though something flickered in his eyes—understanding, perhaps, or sympathy. He nodded slowly, taking in everything she had said.
"I see," he said quietly, his voice filled with a gentle understanding. "I'm sorry for what you've been through."
Gine let out a shaky breath, feeling a strange sense of relief wash over her. She hadn't told him everything—not yet. But sharing even part of the truth felt like a weight lifted off her shoulders. For the first time since the destruction of Planet Vegeta, she didn't feel entirely alone.
Ben turned back toward the fire, stirring the contents of the pot as the smell of cooking food filled the room. "Tatooine isn't the easiest place to live," he said after a moment, his voice calm. "But it's far from the reach of the most powerful forces in the galaxy. You should be safe here for now."
Gine nodded slowly, her mind still reeling from the reality of their situation. "Thank you," she said softly. "I don't know what we would have done without your help."
Ben glanced over his shoulder at her, offering a small but reassuring smile. "There's no need to thank me. I'm just glad I was able to help."
As Gine sat down beside the fire, Raditz began to stir from his sleep, blinking groggily as he sat up. Kakarot, still nestled in Gine's arms, let out a soft whimper but remained asleep.
Ben moved toward the small table in the center of the room, setting down bowls of the simple stew he had prepared. "Eat," he said, gesturing to the food. "You'll need your strength."
Gine nodded, gratefully accepting the bowl. Her mind continued to race as she ate, trying to process everything that had happened. They were in a different galaxy—a place far removed from everything they had ever known. But they were alive. And for now, that was enough.
As she glanced at Ben, still tending to the fire with his calm, steady presence, Gine couldn't help but feel a growing sense of trust. Whoever this man was, he had saved them. And for the first time in what felt like an eternity, she felt like maybe, just maybe, they could survive this after all.
But as they sat there, Gine couldn't shake the growing curiosity gnawing at the back of her mind. She had shared her story with Ben—at least, part of it—but there was still so much she didn't know about him, about where they were and the galaxy they had found themselves in. His kindness and calm demeanor had put her at ease, but now that the initial panic of survival had subsided, the questions she had held back began to surface.
As she finished her meal, Gine glanced at Ben, who sat quietly across from her, his focus seemingly on the fire. He was so calm and composed, yet there was something about him, something cryptic, that made her wonder what secrets he was keeping.
Unable to keep her curiosity at bay any longer, Gine finally broke the silence. "Ben," she began softly, her voice tentative. "Why do you live here? In the middle of the desert? It's so isolated."
Ben didn't respond immediately. His eyes remained on the flickering flames, and for a moment, Gine wondered if he had heard her at all. The crackling of the fire filled the room as the suns outside began their slow ascent into the sky, casting long shadows across the stone walls.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Ben spoke, his voice low and measured. "I live here because it's quiet. Away from everything." He paused as if considering his next words carefully. "Sometimes, distance is the best way to stay unnoticed."
Gine frowned slightly, unsure what to make of his cryptic answer. "Unnoticed by who?" she asked, though her tone was more curious than pressing.
Ben's gaze shifted to meet hers, and there was a flicker of something in his eyes—something unreadable. "By those who might be looking," he said quietly, his voice calm but carrying an underlying weight. "In a place like this, far from the Core worlds, it's easy to be forgotten."
Gine felt a chill run down her spine at his words, though she wasn't entirely sure why. She had sensed from the beginning that there was more to Ben than he was letting on, but the vagueness of his answer only deepened the mystery. What had driven him to live such a secluded life? Who was he hiding from? And why?
But before she could press him further, Ben spoke again, his voice softer now. "It's better this way. For everyone."
There was a finality to his tone as if the subject was closed. Gine hesitated momentarily, unsure whether to pursue the matter further, but Ben's demeanor made her stop. He clearly wasn't ready to share more, and she respected that.
Instead, Gine shifted the conversation, steering away from the personal and toward something she had been wondering since the moment they arrived.
"This galaxy…" Gine said carefully, choosing her words as she thought through her next question. "It's so different from where we're from. I don't understand much of what you've said—the Outer Rim, the Core worlds. Can you… can you tell me more about it? About how things work here?"
Ben's expression softened slightly at her question, and the tension in the room seemed to ease. He leaned back in his chair, folding his hands in his lap as he considered her request.
"This galaxy is vast," he began, his voice steady as he spoke. "Far larger than most people can even comprehend. It's divided into different regions—the Core, the Mid Rim, the Outer Rim, and the Unknown Regions. The Core is where you'll find the most advanced civilizations—Coruscant, Chandrila, Alderaan—worlds where the wealthy and powerful live. The Core is the heart of the galaxy, where the seat of power has always been."
Gine listened intently, trying to absorb as much as she could. "And… the Outer Rim?" she asked, remembering that Ben had mentioned it before.
Ben nodded. "The Outer Rim is where we are now. It's far from the Core, isolated, and often neglected by the powers that govern the galaxy. Planets like Tatooine don't get much attention. Lawlessness is common out here, and most people are left to fend for themselves."
"Lawlessness?" Gine repeated, her heart sinking slightly. "That doesn't sound… safe."
"It isn't," Ben admitted, his tone frank. "There are those who prey on the weak and vulnerable out here. Smugglers, slavers, bounty hunters… they thrive in places like this. But it also means that the galaxy's conflicts don't always reach us here. For some, that makes it a place of refuge."
Gine's brow furrowed. The more Ben spoke, the more she realized just how dangerous this galaxy could be. It was a far cry from the structure and order she had known back on Planet Vegeta. The Saiyans had lived under the iron rule of Frieza, but here… things seemed different, more chaotic, more unpredictable.
"What about… governance?" Gine asked. "You said there were powers that govern the galaxy. Who are they?"
Ben's expression shifted slightly, and for a moment, Gine thought she saw a flicker of something—perhaps weariness—cross his face. "The Galactic Empire rules the galaxy," he said quietly. "It rose to power not long ago, after the fall of the Republic. The Empire controls much of the galaxy now, though there are still pockets of resistance."
Gine's heart skipped a beat. The Empire. The word sounded ominous, and the way Ben said it—quietly, almost cautiously—made her uneasy. "The Empire…" she echoed. "What are they like?"
Ben's eyes darkened, his calm demeanor flickering for the first time since she had met him. "The Empire is ruled by an Emperor who wields absolute power. It's a regime built on fear and control, and they've expanded their influence across the galaxy. They're ruthless in their methods, and anyone who stands in their way… doesn't last long."
Gine's stomach twisted at his words. The way he spoke about the Empire reminded her all too much of Frieza—another tyrant who had destroyed everything she loved. She had thought they had escaped that kind of cruelty, but now it seemed they had landed in a galaxy under the rule of yet another oppressive force.
"Does the Empire… control Tatooine?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ben shook his head. "Not directly. Tatooine is too far from the Core to warrant their full attention. But they have a presence here—Imperial patrols, occasionally bounty hunters working on their behalf. They don't rule this world with an iron fist, but their shadow looms over it."
Gine felt a chill run down her spine. Even here, on this remote desert planet, they weren't completely free of danger. The Empire, it seemed, had far-reaching claws.
"What about this resistance you mentioned?" she asked, trying to grasp something hopeful. "Are there people fighting back?"
Ben's expression softened slightly, though there was still a hint of caution in his eyes. "There are. A rebellion has been forming for some time now—small groups of people who oppose the Empire and its rule. But they're scattered, disorganized. It's dangerous work, and the odds are stacked against them."
A rebellion. It wasn't much, but it was something. Gine felt a flicker of hope at the thought that not everyone in this galaxy was willing to bow to tyranny. Perhaps, in time, they could find a place in this rebellion—perhaps they could find allies.
Ben seemed to sense the shift in her mood, and he offered her a small, reassuring smile. "I know it's a lot to take in," he said gently. "But you and your sons are safe here, at least for now. Tatooine may be harsh, but it's a place where people can disappear, where they can start over."
Gine nodded slowly, her mind racing as she tried to process everything Ben had told her. This galaxy was so different, so unfamiliar, but she had survived this long. She would find a way to protect her sons, no matter what it took.
"Thank you," she said softly, her voice filled with gratitude. "For everything. I don't know how we would have made it without your help."
Ben inclined his head slightly, his expression calm. "There's no need to thank me. I'm just glad I could help."
They sat silently for a moment, the weight of everything they had discussed settling over them like a thick blanket. Gine's mind raced with possibilities, questions, and uncertainties, but one thing was clear: she and her sons had survived, and they were not alone.
She glanced at Raditz, who was now fully awake and picking at the last bits of dried meat from his plate while Kakarot was still sleeping peacefully in her arms. Her sons needed more than just this temporary refuge—they needed a plan, a way to survive in this strange new world. To do that, she needed to know more about the area and what resources they could access.
Gine cleared her throat softly, her eyes drifting over to Ben, who had settled back near the fire. His gaze was distant as if lost in thought. She hesitated for a moment before speaking, unsure of how to phrase her question.
"Ben," she began quietly, "you mentioned that Tatooine is remote and isolated, but… are there any settlements nearby? Places where people live, where we could find supplies or… anything else we might need?"
Ben looked up from the fire, his calm, steady eyes meeting hers. For a moment, he didn't respond, as if considering the best way to answer. Then, with a small nod, he spoke. "The nearest settlement to here is a place called Mos Eisley," he said, his voice as quiet and measured as always. "It's a spaceport town, one of the largest on Tatooine. Not far from here, relatively speaking."
"Spaceport?" Gine repeated, the word unfamiliar to her. "So… people come and go from there often?"
"Yes," Ben replied, his tone thoughtful. "Mos Eisley is a hub for travelers, smugglers, traders, and bounty hunters. It's not exactly the safest place, but it's where you'd go if you need to find something—or someone."
Gine frowned slightly, the mention of bounty hunters sending a ripple of unease through her. The idea of being surrounded by dangerous individuals didn't sit well with her, especially with her two young sons. But at the same time, they needed supplies—food, water, anything they could get to help them survive. And if Mos Eisley was the closest option, it might be their best chance.
"Is it far from here?" she asked, trying to gauge whether it was a realistic option for them.
Ben shook his head. "Not too far. A few hours' ride across the desert, depending on how fast we travel. I can take you there if you want."
Gine blinked, surprised by his offer. She hadn't expected him to be so willing to help, though after all he had already done for them, perhaps she shouldn't have been so surprised. Still, there was something about his calm, quiet demeanor that made her feel like she wasn't imposing, that he genuinely didn't mind lending a hand.
"You'd… take us there?" she asked, her voice tentative. "You've already done so much for us. I don't want to burden you any more than we already have."
Ben offered a faint smile, his expression as kind as ever. "It's no burden," he said simply. "I don't mind helping you find your way. Besides, it's better to travel together, especially with the dangers of the desert."
Gine felt a surge of gratitude well up in her chest. She had no idea how they had gotten so lucky to cross paths with someone like Ben—a stranger who had taken them in without question and now offered to help guide them through this strange new world. It was more than she could have hoped for.
"Thank you," she said softly, her voice filled with sincerity. "I don't know how we would have managed without your help."
Ben inclined his head slightly, accepting her thanks with the same quiet grace he always seemed to carry. "You're welcome," he said, his tone gentle. "But you should know that Mos Eisley isn't without its risks. It's a place where people do business, but not all of them are honest. You'll need to be careful."
Gine nodded, absorbing his warning. "I understand. But we need supplies, and I must figure out what to do next. I can't just… stay here indefinitely."
Ben studied her for a moment, his gaze thoughtful. "I know it's not easy," he said softly. "Being so far from home, not knowing what's ahead. But you're stronger than you realize, Gine. You've already survived things most people wouldn't."
Gine swallowed hard at his words, feeling a lump form in her throat. She wanted to believe him, wanted to believe that she could protect her sons and find a way forward in this foreign galaxy. But the truth was, she still felt lost, adrift in a sea of uncertainty.
"You say that," Gine replied quietly, "but I don't even know where to begin. This galaxy is so different from anything I've ever known. I don't even know how we'll get by in a place like Mos Eisley. I don't have… money or anything to trade."
Ben's expression remained calm, though there was a flicker of understanding in his eyes. "Mos Eisley operates on more than just credits," he said, using a term she assumed referred to the currency of this galaxy. "It's a place where people barter, where deals are made based on favors, goods, and services. You may not have much regarding material wealth, but that doesn't mean you can't find a way to get what you need."
Gine frowned slightly, her mind racing as she tried to think of what she could possibly offer in exchange for supplies. Back on Planet Vegeta, everything had been so different. The Saiyan way of life revolved around strength, power, and conquest. But here, in this desert world, surrounded by traders and smugglers, those things seemed distant and irrelevant.
"Is there… anything I should be careful about?" she asked, her tone cautious. "You said there are dangers in Mos Eisley. What should I watch out for?"
Ben nodded slowly, his gaze steady. "Keep a low profile," he advised. "Mos Eisley attracts all kinds of people, some of whom may be interested in newcomers. Especially those who look… out of place."
Gine's stomach tightened at the thought. They already stood out enough with their Saiyan appearance, and though she had been careful not to reveal too much about her origins, she knew it would only take one wrong encounter to put them in danger.
"I'll be careful," she said, her voice firm. "I don't want to attract any attention."
Ben's expression softened slightly as if he sensed the weight of the burden she was carrying. "You're doing well, Gine," he said quietly. "You've kept your sons safe this long. That's no small feat."
Gine glanced down at Raditz, who was now quietly playing with a small piece of wood he had found on the floor. Kakarot, still sleeping in her arms, stirred slightly but remained calm. For a moment, a sense of peace washed over her—just a brief moment where she could appreciate that they had survived, that they were still together.
"Thank you," she murmured again, her voice filled with gratitude.
Ben nodded, standing up from where he had been sitting. "We should leave soon if you want to reach Mos Eisley before the day's heat gets too intense."
Gine glanced outside, where the twin suns were now fully visible in the sky. The air outside was already thick with heat, and the idea of traveling through the desert in the middle of the day seemed unbearable.
"Right," she said, standing up carefully, making sure not to disturb Kakarot. "I'll get ready. Raditz, we're going to go with Ben to a place called Mos Eisley, okay?"
Raditz looked up at her, his eyes bright with curiosity. "Mos Eisley? Is that a city?"
"It's a spaceport," Gine explained, though the concept was still somewhat foreign to her. "We'll see if we can find supplies there."
Raditz nodded eagerly, clearly excited by the prospect of traveling again, though Gine could tell he was trying to mask his enthusiasm. He still had that Saiyan pride in him, the determination to show that he was strong and capable, even in a place like this.
Ben moved toward the door, pulling his hood up over his head to shield himself from the sun. "We'll take the same creature I used to bring you here," he said. "It'll get us to Mos Eisley faster than walking."
Gine nodded, adjusting her grip on Kakarot as she prepared to follow Ben outside. The air was hot, but as she stepped out into the open, she felt a surge of determination rising within her. She didn't know what awaited them in Mos Eisley—whether it would be dangerous or helpful—but she knew one thing: she had to keep moving forward. For her sons. For Bardock. For the future, she still hoped they could build, even in this strange and distant galaxy.
As they set off toward the creature, Gine felt a renewed sense of purpose. The path ahead was uncertain, but for now, they had a guide—and that was more than she had dared hope for when they first crash-landed on this desert world.
The ride across the desert was smoother than Gine had anticipated. Ben's transport, a strange, lumbering creature with long legs, made quick work of the sand dunes, its steady gait keeping them cool under the heavy cloak of its rider's robes. The heat of the twin suns beat down mercilessly, but the sight of Mos Eisley slowly rising in the distance provided a strange sense of comfort to Gine. It was far from home, and yet, here they were—survivors on a strange planet in a strange galaxy.
The closer they got, the more of the spaceport town came into view. Mos Eisley was sprawling, a maze of squat buildings and streets packed with vendors, travelers, and ships docked at makeshift landing pads. From a distance, it seemed almost quiet, but as they approached, the noise of people bartering, shouting, and the mechanical hum of engines reached their ears.
Raditz leaned over Gine's side, wide-eyed with excitement. "Is this the spaceport?" he asked, voice brimming with curiosity. "Look at all the ships, Mom!"
Gine smiled down at her son, ruffling his hair as she adjusted Kakarot, who was awake now but silent in her arms, his dark eyes staring curiously at the bustling town. "Yes, Raditz," she said softly, though her own heart fluttered with nervousness. "This is Mos Eisley. Just stay close to me, alright? It's not the safest place."
Ben, seated ahead of them, glanced back, his hood casting a shadow over his face. "Stay close, as your mother says," he agreed, his tone calm but cautious. "Mos Eisley is a place of opportunity but also danger. There are many who won't hesitate to take advantage of those who look… out of place."
Gine nodded, absorbing his words. The last thing she wanted was to draw attention to herself and her sons, but their Saiyan appearance was distinct—tails, armor, and all. She had tucked her tail beneath her clothes as best she could, but the sense of being watched still gnawed at her. For now, all she could do was follow Ben's lead.
As they entered the town, Gine's senses were overwhelmed by its sheer scale. The narrow streets were packed with vendors hawking strange goods from stalls made of metal scraps, others from simple blankets spread on the ground. Droids whirred past, carrying crates or trailing behind their masters, while beings of all shapes and sizes crowded the walkways. Gine spotted aliens of species she had never seen before, with strange skin colors, extra limbs, or multiple eyes. It was like stepping into an entirely different world—one she could barely comprehend.
Ben guided them through the narrow streets with ease, his steps purposeful, as though he knew exactly where they needed to go. He kept to the shadows, avoiding the busier areas where large crowds gathered. Gine followed close behind, keeping Raditz by her side and Kakarot cradled protectively in her arms. The boy's eyes were wide with wonder as they passed by a stall where a Twi'lek woman was selling exotic fruits. "Can we stop and look at those, Mom?" Raditz asked, pulling at her arm.
"Maybe later," Gine replied, her gaze scanning their surroundings nervously. "Right now, we need to follow Ben."
Raditz pouted but didn't argue, keeping close to her side as they wound their way through the town.
As they walked, Gine's attention was drawn to a group of soldiers marching in formation through the streets, their white armor gleaming under the harsh light of the twin suns. She tensed immediately, instinctively pulling Raditz closer as they passed by. They were unmistakably Imperial troopers—the ones Ben had warned her about.
Ben noticed her reaction and slowed his pace slightly, allowing the patrol to move ahead before he spoke. "Those are stormtroopers," he explained quietly. "They're the foot soldiers of the Empire. They won't bother us if we don't give them a reason to."
Gine swallowed hard, her heart pounding as she watched the soldiers disappear into the crowd. They reminded her far too much of Frieza's soldiers, the same rigid discipline, the same menacing presence. The thought of crossing paths with the Empire filled her with dread, but she knew that, for now, they had to stay under the radar.
"They look… dangerous," Raditz whispered, his wide eyes fixed on the troopers. "Do they hurt people?"
Ben's expression darkened slightly, though his tone remained calm. "They enforce the Empire's will," he said carefully. "And the Empire does not tolerate dissent. But as long as we stay out of their way, we'll be fine."
Gine nodded, though her unease remained. She didn't want to linger any longer than necessary, especially with Imperial patrols roaming the streets. They needed supplies, and they needed to figure out their next move, but the longer they stayed in Mos Eisley, the greater the risk.
As they turned a corner into a quieter part of town, Gine's sense of relief was short-lived. Out of nowhere, a figure stumbled into their path, almost colliding with her. She instinctively stepped back, her eyes narrowing as she took in the man standing before her.
He was tall, with unkempt hair and a scruffy beard, his clothes worn and patched in places. A blaster was slung loosely over his shoulder, and he reeked of alcohol. It didn't take long for Gine to realize that this man had just come from one of the cantinas they had passed. He was swaying slightly, his eyes unfocused but leering at her in a way that made her skin crawl.
"Well, well…" the man slurred, a crooked grin spreading across his face as he looked her up and down. "What do we have here? A pretty lady, all alone in Mos Eisley?" His voice was thick with drunken arrogance, and he took a step closer, his hand reaching toward her as if he intended to touch her.
Gine's heart raced, and her muscles tensed, ready to retaliate. Every instinct in her body screamed at her to defend herself, to knock this man to the ground and show him just how dangerous she could be. Her Saiyan strength was more than enough to deal with him, and in a matter of seconds, she could easily overpower him.
Her hand clenched into a fist, and she was about to react when Ben's calm voice interrupted.
"That's enough," Ben said, stepping forward, his tone firm but controlled.
The man blinked, swaying slightly as he turned his attention to Ben. "And who are you?" the drunk bounty hunter sneered, though his movements were slow, his reaction dulled by the alcohol. "Think you're gonna stop me?"
Ben didn't respond immediately. Instead, he raised his hand slightly, his fingers making a subtle gesture in the air. His voice was calm, almost soothing, as he spoke again. "You don't want any trouble. You're going to leave us alone now."
The bounty hunter's expression shifted, his face going slack as if he were suddenly disoriented. His eyes glazed over for a moment, and then, without another word, he turned and stumbled away, his movements robotic, as though he had forgotten why he had approached them in the first place.
Gine blinked in surprise, her muscles still tense from the near confrontation. She watched the man stagger off into the distance, confused by how quickly the situation had resolved. She hadn't even needed to lift a finger.
"How did you—" she began, turning to Ben, her voice filled with surprise.
Ben waved a hand dismissively, his expression calm and composed as always. "Sometimes it's easier to persuade people to make better choices," he said, his voice light, almost as if it were a casual observation.
Gine frowned slightly, still trying to process what had just happened. There was something strange about the way Ben had handled the situation—something she couldn't quite put her finger on. But whatever it was, it had worked.
"Thank you," Gine said quietly, her voice filled with gratitude. She was ready to fight and defend herself, but Ben managed to diffuse the situation without any violence. "I didn't expect him to back down so easily."
Ben glanced at her, his expression as calm as ever. "It's best to avoid unnecessary conflicts," he said simply. "Especially in a place like this. It's better not to draw attention."
Gine nodded, her heart still racing from the encounter. She had been ready to unleash her Saiyan strength, but Ben's approach had been far more effective—and far less risky. She couldn't afford to make enemies here, not when she had her sons to protect.
Raditz, who had been watching the whole scene with wide eyes, tugged at her sleeve. "Mom, that guy was weird," he whispered. "How did Ben make him go away like that?"
Gine smiled down at her son, ruffling his hair. "Ben's just… really good at getting people to do the right thing," she said, though she herself wasn't entirely sure how he had done it.
Ben smiled faintly at Raditz's curiosity but didn't elaborate. Instead, he gestured for them to continue following him. "Come on," he said softly. "We still have supplies to find."
As they continued walking through the busy streets of Mos Eisley, Gine couldn't help but glance at Ben, her mind racing with questions. There was something about him—something different, something she didn't fully understand. But whatever it was, she was grateful for it.
Ben paused at one of the larger market stalls, where a weathered trader was busy haggling with a gruff-looking mechanic over a box of worn-out parts. Ben turned to Gine, his expression calm but firm.
"Wait here," he said, his voice low but gentle. "I need to talk to this trader about supplies. It won't take long."
Gine nodded, adjusting Kakarot in her arms. "Alright. We'll stay here."
Ben gave her a small, reassuring nod before turning toward the trader, his back now to Gine and her children. As Ben began speaking in low tones with the trader, Gine glanced around, her senses heightened by the busy, chaotic atmosphere of the marketplace.
For a moment, she allowed herself to relax, watching as Raditz poked curiously at a small trinket hanging from a nearby stall. But something in the corner of her eye caught her attention. A few paces away, near the edge of the market, two Imperial stormtroopers loomed over a frightened woman and her small child. The woman was clutching her son tightly to her chest, her face pale with fear as the stormtroopers barked orders at her.
"You were caught stealing," one of the stormtroopers snarled, his blaster rifle pointed at the ground, but his voice carrying an unmistakable threat. "That's an arrestable offense."
The woman shook her head frantically, tears welling in her eyes. "Please, I wasn't stealing! I was just trying to get food for my son. We have nothing, I swear!"
The stormtrooper didn't seem to care. His voice was cold and emotionless as he continued. "The Empire doesn't tolerate thieves. You'll come with us now. Resist, and we'll make sure you regret it."
Gine's heart clenched at the sight. The mother and child looked so much like her and her own sons—desperate, scared, trying to survive. The stormtroopers' cruelty and cold indifference reminded her far too much of the horrors she had witnessed under Frieza's rule. She couldn't stand by and let this happen.
Raditz tugged at her sleeve, his eyes wide with concern. "Mom, what's happening? What are those soldiers doing?"
Gine looked down at her eldest son, her jaw tightening. "Raditz, I need you to hold your brother for a moment."
Raditz blinked, clearly surprised by the sudden request. "What? But—"
"Now, Raditz," Gine said firmly, her voice leaving no room for argument. She carefully handed Kakarot to Raditz, who accepted his baby brother with wide-eyed caution. "Stay here and don't move."
Without another word, Gine turned and strode toward the stormtroopers, her blood boiling. Every instinct in her body told her to intervene, to stop this injustice before it went any further. She knew it was risky—knew that confronting Imperial soldiers could draw unwanted attention—but she couldn't stand by and watch an innocent mother and child suffer.
As she approached, the stormtroopers barely noticed her at first. They were too focused on intimidating the woman, who was now sobbing softly, her son clinging to her leg in terror.
"You can't do this," Gine said sharply as she stepped into their path, her voice steady and unwavering. "She didn't do anything wrong."
The stormtroopers turned toward her, their helmets reflecting the sunlight as they sized her up. One of them—the one who had been speaking—took a step closer, clearly unimpressed by her presence.
"This is none of your concern," the stormtrooper snapped, his voice dripping with authority. "Move along before you get yourself into trouble."
Gine's eyes narrowed. "I don't think so."
Before the stormtrooper could respond, Gine's hand shot out with lightning speed. She grabbed the trooper by the arm, yanking him forward with such force that he stumbled, his balance completely lost. In one swift motion, she flipped him over her shoulder and slammed him to the ground with a heavy thud. The stormtrooper groaned in pain, his armor rattling as he struggled to move, completely overpowered by Gine's Saiyan strength.
The second stormtrooper's eyes widened behind his helmet, clearly shocked by what he had just witnessed. He didn't hesitate. With a quick movement, he raised his blaster and fired directly at Gine, the red bolt of energy streaking through the air toward her.
But Gine was faster.
In the blink of an eye, she raised her hand, deflecting the blaster bolt with ease. The energy dissipated against her palm as if it were nothing more than a harmless spark. The stormtrooper froze, clearly unable to comprehend what had just happened.
Gine took a step forward, her eyes locked on the remaining trooper. "Leave them alone," she said coldly, her voice low and dangerous. "Now."
The stormtrooper, trembling in fear, stepped back, his blaster still raised but his grip shaky. He glanced at his fallen comrade, then back at Gine, clearly weighing his options. For a brief moment, it seemed like he might try to fire again, but then, something changed.
From behind her, Gine sensed a subtle movement. She didn't need to turn around to know it was Ben. He was close now, his hand raised ever so slightly as he stepped forward. His voice was calm, almost soothing, as he spoke to the stormtrooper.
"You don't want to cause any more trouble," Ben said, his tone steady but commanding. "You're going to leave now, and you won't bother them again."
The stormtrooper's posture slackened immediately. His blaster lowered, his grip loosened, and his shoulders slumped as if a sudden wave of exhaustion had washed over him. Without a word, he turned and grabbed his fallen comrade by the arm, dragging him to his feet. Both stormtroopers stumbled away, their movements mechanical and dazed, as if they had forgotten why they were there in the first place.
Gine watched them retreat, her heart still pounding from the confrontation. She had been ready to take them both on, to fight if necessary, but something had shifted the situation before it could escalate further. She turned to look at Ben, who was standing quietly nearby, his hand now lowered, his expression calm but watchful.
"You didn't have to do that," Ben said quietly, his tone gentle but firm. "It was unwise to draw attention like that, especially in a place like this."
Gine's eyes narrowed slightly, though there was no anger in her voice when she replied. "I couldn't just stand by and watch them bully that woman and her child. It reminded me too much of… well, of what we've already been through."
Ben's expression softened, and for a moment, he seemed to consider her words carefully. "I understand," he said after a pause. "But you have to be careful. Mos Eisley is full of eyes and ears, and the Empire doesn't take kindly to anyone who disrupts their authority."
Gine let out a slow breath, her muscles still tense from the adrenaline coursing through her veins. "I couldn't let them get away with it," she said, her voice quieter now. "Not when I know what it's like to be helpless."
Ben studied her for a moment longer, then gave a small nod of understanding. "Just be cautious," he said gently. "You're not alone anymore. You have your sons to think about."
Gine glanced over her shoulder, where Raditz was still holding Kakarot, his eyes wide with awe at what had just happened. The reality of the situation hit her hard—she had acted on instinct, but Ben was right. She couldn't afford to draw attention to herself or her children, not in a place like this.
"I'll be careful," she said softly, her gaze drifting back to Ben. "But sometimes, you can't just walk away."
Ben gave her a faint smile, though there was a weight behind it. "I know," he said quietly. "But we need to be smart about when and how we choose to fight."
Gine nodded, understanding the wisdom in his words. She had been reckless, but she couldn't deny that helping the woman and her child had been the right thing to do. For now, though, she needed to focus on keeping her sons safe. There would be other battles to fight, but this wasn't the time.
As they turned to continue walking through the market, Gine cast one last glance in the direction the stormtroopers had fled. She didn't know what would come next, but she knew one thing for sure: she wouldn't back down when it mattered most. Not here, not in this galaxy, and not ever.
The streets of Mos Eisley gradually grew quieter as Gine, Ben, and her sons moved deeper into the marketplace. The confrontation with the stormtroopers still weighed on Gine's mind, but she forced herself to focus on her immediate surroundings. The noise of vendors calling out prices and the metallic whir of droids filled the air, but Gine felt a growing unease. Though the stormtroopers had run off, the eyes of the market had seen her. Her brief display of strength, though necessary, might have attracted more attention than they could afford.
Ben walked beside her, his expression calm but cautious. Raditz held Kakarot close, looking up at his mother with a mixture of awe and concern. He'd never seen her react so quickly, with such power, and it was clear the boy didn't fully understand the consequences of what had just happened.
"Mom," Raditz said, his voice small as they continued walking. "What you did back there... you were so strong. Are you... okay?"
Gine glanced down at him, offering a small smile to reassure her son. "I'm fine, Raditz. I just had to help that mother and her child. Sometimes you need to stand up for what's right, but..." She trailed off, glancing at Ben as they walked. "I also need to be careful. We don't want to draw too much attention."
Ben nodded slightly, his expression unreadable. "You have the right instincts," he said quietly. "But in a place like this, strength can draw the wrong kind of attention. We need to keep moving quietly."
Gine took in his words, knowing that he was right. She couldn't afford to make the same mistake again—not when the Empire had a presence here, not when she had her sons to protect. She would have to be smarter and more discreet if they were to survive in this strange world.
As they passed another cluster of stalls, Ben stopped suddenly, his attention drawn to something in the distance. Gine followed his gaze, her stomach tightening as she spotted another small group of stormtroopers patrolling the outskirts of the market. They hadn't noticed them yet, but Gine's senses were on high alert. They needed to keep a low profile, now more than ever.
"We should head back," Ben said quietly, his voice low but firm. "It's best we don't linger."
Gine nodded in agreement, though her mind was still racing with thoughts of the encounter. She couldn't shake the feeling that this wasn't over, that somehow, word of her actions would spread. And that terrified her more than anything.
Meanwhile, in a dimly lit room within the Imperial outpost on the outskirts of Mos Eisley, an Imperial officer stood before a console, his fingers tapping thoughtfully on the edge of the metal desk. The officer was Lieutenant Kess, a meticulous and no-nonsense man who had been stationed on Tatooine longer than he cared to admit. His sharp, pale eyes glinted in the dim light as he reviewed the report on his screen, submitted by the two stormtroopers who had just returned from their patrol.
The report was troubling.
Kess read it again slowly, his frown deepening with each sentence. One of the stormtroopers had described an altercation with a civilian—a woman who had seemingly stepped in to defend another local from arrest. That in itself wasn't too surprising. Mos Eisley was full of troublemakers and bold souls who sometimes thought they could stand up to the Empire. What disturbed him was what came next.
The stormtrooper detailed how the woman, despite her unassuming appearance, had demonstrated inhuman strength. She had grabbed one of the troopers and thrown him to the ground effortlessly, as if he weighed nothing. Worse still, the second trooper had fired at her, and she had deflected the blaster bolt with her bare hand.
Kess leaned back in his chair, running a gloved hand over his chin as he considered the implications. Deflecting a blaster bolt? That wasn't possible for a normal person. Certainly not for a civilian. The only people who were known to be capable of such feats were...
His eyes narrowed as he reached the only conclusion that made sense.
A Jedi.
The Jedi Order had been purged years ago under the Emperor's directive, but Kess knew the stories. A few had escaped. There were rumors that some still lingered in the shadows, hiding in remote corners of the galaxy, waiting for the right moment to rise again. Tatooine was remote enough, and if one of them had found their way here...
The implications were serious.
He sat forward, his fingers hovering over the controls on his desk as he pulled up the official records. The details provided by the stormtrooper were vague. The woman's description didn't match anyone currently on their wanted lists, but her actions were undeniably suspicious. Kess couldn't afford to ignore this.
He tapped into the system, accessing a secure communication channel directly to Imperial headquarters. His fingers moved swiftly across the console as he composed his report, summarizing the encounter in concise but thorough detail.
Report: Incident in Mos Eisley—Unusual Activity.
Summary: Two stormtroopers reported an encounter with a female civilian in the Mos Eisley marketplace. The woman displayed strength far beyond normal capabilities, overpowering a stormtrooper with ease. She also deflected a blaster bolt using her bare hand, a feat characteristic of Jedi. This suggests the possibility of a surviving Jedi or other Force-sensitive individual on Tatooine. Further investigation is recommended.
Kess paused for a moment, reading over the report one last time before sending it off to his superiors. He couldn't say for certain that this woman was a Jedi, but the possibility was enough to raise alarm. The Empire took no chances when it came to the Jedi, and if even one had survived, it was his duty to report it.
As the message was sent, Kess leaned back again, his eyes narrowing in thought. If the woman was indeed a Jedi—or connected to them in any way—it wouldn't be long before Imperial forces were dispatched to deal with her. The Inquisitors, perhaps, or worse.
For now, all he could do was wait for orders. But one thing was certain: the Empire didn't take such threats lightly.
Back in the bustling streets of Mos Eisley, Gine and Ben had begun making their way back toward the edge of the marketplace. Gine had taken Kakarot back into her arms, her heart still racing from the earlier encounter with the stormtroopers. She couldn't help but glance around, wary of anyone who might have seen what had happened, but the market was as noisy and chaotic as ever. If anyone had noticed, they didn't seem to care.
"Ben," Gine said softly as they walked, keeping her voice low so Raditz wouldn't overhear. "What I did back there… I know it was reckless, but I couldn't just let them hurt that woman and her child. They reminded me of us."
Ben's expression remained calm, though his eyes held a hint of concern. "I understand," he replied quietly. "But you have to be careful. The Empire doesn't forget acts of defiance. What you did was remarkable, but it's also dangerous. If they suspect that you're… more than what you appear to be, they'll come after you."
Gine's stomach twisted at his words, and for the first time, she realized just how much danger she might have put herself—and her sons—in. "I know," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I had to do something."
Ben glanced at her, his expression softening slightly. "Your instincts are good," he said, his voice gentle. "But remember, sometimes it's not just about strength. It's about knowing when to act and when to hold back. You'll need to be cautious in this galaxy. There are forces here far greater than you might realize."
Gine nodded, though the weight of his words settled heavily in her chest. She knew Ben was right—she needed to be more careful. But the thought of standing by and doing nothing while others suffered was something she couldn't bear.
They continued walking in silence for a moment, the noise of the market fading slightly as they moved toward a quieter area. Gine glanced down at Kakarot, who was dozing peacefully in her arms, and then at Raditz, who was still wide-eyed and curious about everything around them.
She would protect them, no matter what. But now, with the Empire potentially on their trail, that task had become much more dangerous.
Ben's calm presence beside her was reassuring, but Gine couldn't shake the feeling that something dark was closing in around them.
Well, things are definitely getting interesting now, aren't they? 😅 I mean, come on—Ben? There's only one guy in the galaxy who's calm, wise and lives alone in a desert. I wonder who that could be…
But on a serious note, Gine's good deed might've just put her on the Empire's radar, and that's never good news. What's gonna happen next? Only time will tell! Stay tuned! 😄