New Places. New Faces
Jack sat at a table in a small meeting room with the dossier of the prospective new pilot Merida had recommended to Blizzard Squadron. As he'd promised he was intent on meeting with this pilot and getting a feel for them. After all, as captain he had to make sure they would mesh well with the squad. Especially if she was going to be his lieutenant and lead them when he wasn't around.
He was impressed by her record. She'd been flying for many years and had experience flying a wide variety of vessels from transports to fighters. Seemed like flying was second nature to her. Which was no surprise given her people.
The door to the room opened and Jack glanced up from the datapad. Standing before him was a Kinnaran woman in an orange flight suit. Her feathers were of a green and bluish hue with a large gold one atop her head. She had heterochromia, with her left eye being blue and her right a shade of purple. The latter of which sported a beauty mark just underneath.
"Captain! Pilot BT reporting in as requested! Sir!" she declared with zeal as she saluted him.
She held it, waiting for Jack to respond. He arched his brow and gave a chuckle in amusement. Seemed he had a formal one on his hands. He wasn't sure he'd ever grow accustomed to people saluting him and showing him deference. He paused purposefully, amused as she held her stance. He wondered how long she would keep it up if allowed.
"Hey, come on in. At ease pilot," Jack finally replied as he waved her in.
"Yes sir!" she said obediently. She came in and took a seat across from him. She sat up straight and looked him right in the eyes with a steady gaze.
"So BT, Merida says you'd be interested in joining Blizzard Squadron?"
"Oh yes sir!" she responded eagerly. "Blizzard Squadron has been making quite a name for itself throughout the Alliance."
"Appreciate that, we try," he quipped with a proud grin. "I was just looking over your file," he said as he raised the datapad. "You have an impressive record. You were a part of your peoples' patrol units?"
"Oh yes sir. We mostly patrolled our colonies and off planet mining facilities. We usually just had to deal with pirates and mercenaries. A few skirmishes with the Empire too," she explained.
"It says here that you served as squad leader a few times as well?"
"Yes sir. I served as a squad leader on at least a dozen occasions," she confirmed with a nod.
"Cool. So what made you enlist with the Alliance? And why fly a B-wing?" he inquired.
She smiled brightly, "Well, I thought the Alliance was doing a good thing, fighting against the Empire and all. It also saved our queen and I felt that my skills might serve a better use as a pilot here," she explained. "As for the B-wing," she began, she gave a shrug before continuing.
"It was so unlike any of the ships I'd ever flown before. I wanted to fly it for myself. And...i don't know; I just fell in love with it," she said with a helpless smile.
Jack gave a thoughtful hum. "I can understand that," he said in understanding. It was just a feeling some pilots got when they found just the right ship. He'd felt it when he'd had the Snowflake and then when he'd acquired the Spirit.
Jack skimmed over a few more things in her file. BT waited patiently, willing herself not to fidget and play with her hands. Then with a hum that made her breath hitch, Jack turned his attention back on her. He gave her a smile. "Well BT, I'm impressed by what I've seen and heard. So if you want a position in Blizzard Squadron, you've got it. As my lieutenant."
Her jaw dropped and her eyes widened in surprise. "Lieu-Lieutenant! I'm getting a promotion?!" she stammered in shock.
"Well I'll have to run it up the chain. Proper procedure and all. But I'm sure Merida can expedite the process, so it's practically a sure thing already," he assured her. "But yeah. I'm in need of a second in command. So, what do you say?" he inquired to be sure she was up for it.
She blinked and took a few moments to let the developments sink in. But then her mouth turned upward into the biggest smile he'd seen from her yet. "Yes sir! It would be an honor, sir!" she said ecstatically.
"Yeah, I'm not really into the whole "sir" thing. Just call me Jack."
"Yes sir-I mean. Yes s-Yes! Jack!" she stuttered, catching herself slipping into the more formal title. "Yes-Jack. It would be an honor to serve as your second in command for Blizzard Squadron," she accepted with a firm nod.
"Glad to hear it," Jack replied honestly. Then he cocked his head curiously as another question he'd had in mind came to the forefront of his thoughts. "One last question though?" he chimed in.
"Yes, Jack?"
"What's BT stand for?" he asked.
At his question she flinched. Her face began turning red as her eyes glanced away in embarrassment. "Ummm...it's nothing, really," she muttered softly.
"Well now I have to know," Jack insisted.
"I'd rather not-" she began before being cut off.
"Lieutenant! I order you to disclose the meaning of your call sign," Jack said firmly. She froze up, stunned that Jack had actually pulled rank on her for such a thing. Jack only grinned wickedly, enjoying this tiny abuse of his power.
She lowered her head and sighed. "Yes sir," she said in defeat. She took a breath, still flushed as she played with her hands. "It stands for...Baby...Tooth," she mumbled under her breath.
Jack arched a brow. "Baby Tooth?" he asked to be sure he'd heard her correctly.
"Yes," she said with a bob of her head.
"Like your queen? Toothiana?" Jack asked.
"Well the 'Tooth' part stems from our old dialect and is actually To'ooth and it means-" she began to explain.
"You look a lot like the queen," Jack suddenly realized. He blinked as he took another look at her. From the shade of feathers to her face it was true. Baby Tooth greatly resembled the queen of her people.
"Yes," Baby Tooth acknowledged bashfully.
"Are you her daughter?!" Jack nearly shouted, thinking he'd stumbled onto some massive revelation. He hadn't heard of the queen having any daughters since the Alliance had joined with the Kinnaran people.
"No sir. She's actually my aunt," she revealed.
"Oh," Jack said, that information made a lot more sense. "So...Baby Tooth?"
"Yeah," she said shyly. She raised a hand up and began to scratch her cheek with a finger. "Well my family, like you, noticed how I looked so much like my aunt that they started calling me Baby Tooth as a joke. Then it kind of stuck and soon enough my entire family was calling me that. Then all of our people began to call me that."
"So you changed it to BT when you joined the Alliance?" Jack guessed.
"Yes. New start new me I figured," she explained, still blushing. It was silent for a few moments before she glanced up to her new captain. She saw he was grinning deviously at her and her spirits sank.
"Please don't start calling me Baby Tooth," she pleaded.
Jack sighed and shrugged. "I'm afraid I just can't do that Baby Tooth," he teased evilly.
"Darn it," she said quietly.
"Well then this has been fruitful!" Jack declared as he stood up. "Welcome to Blizzard Squadron, Baby Tooth," he said as he extended a hand.
"Glad to be a part of it," she responded as she rose and accepted his hand. "But I don't like being called Baby Tooth," she added sulkily.
"Noted. Now let's go introduce you to the squad."
"Alright everyone listen up!" Jack said loudly as he addressed the entirety of the assembled Blizzard Squadron. The squadron wa iin the hangar where their fighters were gathered.
Baby Tooth stood beside Jack, taking note that no one was at attention as he addressed them. Most just stood around while others sat or were leaned against various crates or their own Y-wings. She surmised that Jack wasn't one to stand on formalities.
"This is Baby Tooth, my lieutenant. That means from now on when I'm not around, she's in charge," Jack declared while gesturing to the young Kinnaran.
A few brows rose while others huffed, unimpressed, as they looked the young Kinnaran up and down. She seemed on the younger side, with several members of the squadron being significantly older. Baby Tooth could sense the doubt and tension from them and knew she needed to garner their approval quickly, lest her position as second in command be undermined.
"Captain, permission to address the squad directly?" she asked, looking at Jack.
"Granted," Jack said with a nod. He took a step back and motioned with his hands for her to proceed.
With a breath she took a step forward, squared her shoulders, and steeled her nerves. "Greetings Blizzard Squadron. My name is Toothanya and I'm your new lieutenant. I know I may seem young and I'm sure several of you have years of flying experience on me. But I want to assure you that I've been flying ships practically since I was a child."
"My people are natural fliers. I'm sure many of you have flown missions with them." The pilots of Blizzard squadron nodded in agreement, many having done joint operations with Kinnaran pilots backing them up.
"So rest assured I'm not some amateur pilot who just learned how to fly. That said, I'm sure some of you can show me a thing or two. Maybe you can learn a thing or two from me. I promise to watch your backs out there to the best I am able to and I hope I can expect the same from you," she said as gave them a smile, hoping they could see the trust she had for them in her eyes.
"In conclusion I look forward to serving with all of you," she finished firmly to them. Jack looked on, impressed. Her voice hadn't wavered or cracked in the least. To him it was a glimpse of how she handled under pressure.
He glanced toward the squadron and scanned their faces. They mostly bore smiles and nodded in approval. With a smile of his own he stepped forward and raised his hands. Slowly he started to clap. The other squad members caught on and began to join in until there was applause from the entire group.
"Welcome to Blizzard Squadron Baby Tooth!" Jack cheered.
"Thank you! Thank you all for the welcome," Baby Tooth humbly accepted. "But uh...you don't have to call me Baby Tooth actually," she added awkwardly. "You can all just address me as BT or-"
"Ignore that! Only call her Baby Tooth!" Jack cut in sharply.
"Noooo!" Baby Tooth cried miserably.
Feeling like he'd sufficiently tortured her enough he decided to grant her a small boone. "Or you can just call her Lieutenant," he offered.
She sighed in relief at the gesture of kindness. "Thank you, Captain," she said gratefully.
"Not a problem. Lieutenant."
A few hours later Merida, the Jedi, various higher ranking members of the alliance, including Jack and Baby Tooth as leaders of Blizzard squadron, were gathered in a meeting to discuss an urgent matter to the Alliance.
"We need a ground base," one of the members of Alliance High Command summarized. "Somewhere we can fall back to in times of need."
There were murmurs of agreement all around. "From intelligence and our various search parties we've scouted a few locations. All we need to do is dispatch a few ships to confirm that they're suitable to the Alliance's needs."
"We already have a few members devoted to the task. But we're asking if any here would like to volunteer as well?" another member of High Command said as he surveyed the room for any. The rebels looked among themselves, seeing who would be the first to accept the role. It was a tough decision, for many had responsibilities they didn't want to drop to take up this task.
After a few moments of silence someone finally spoke up. "I'll do it," said Jack with a raised hand. All eyes turned to him.
"Are you sure, Captain?" a member of High Command inquired.
"Blizzard Squadron has no operations currently assigned and I have my new Lieutenant who can lead the squad in my absence," he said, gesturing proudly to Baby Tooth beside him. "I don't mind doing some scouting," he finished with a shrug. His eyes drifted over to another figure in the room, "I'm sure Hiccup wouldn't mind going with me for backup, right Hicc'?"
The Jedi gave a chuckle before stepping forward. "I don't mind going with Jack," he said with a nod and a raised hand. "Rapunzel and Elsa can lead my men, should the need arise," he reasoned.
"Very well."
With that the meeting was adjourned. Jack and Hiccup went to get ready. They packed a few extra garments and food supplies whilst the Winter Spirit was being refueled. With a pack slung over his shoulder Hiccup left his quarters to head for the docking bay.
As he went he was called out to. "Hiccup!"
He stopped and glanced over his shoulder to see Merida approaching him, datapad in hand and a smile to greet him.
"Merida," he said back in greeting, but with only a small smile in return.
"Wanted to talk to you before you headed out with Jack. Tell you about the locations you'll be scouting. It's just a few," she said as she motioned to her datapad.
He nodded in understanding. "You can fill me in along the way," he said. They fell into step as Merida showed him the locations on a star map. They were mainly focused along a major hyperspace route. He listened, responding with nods and simple vocal affirmations.
She finished right as they reached the bay. Elsa and Jack were already waiting for them. They were standing very closely to one another and the pair couldn't help but slow their approach, sensing an air of intimacy between their comrades.
They were speaking, just low enough for only them to hear. Jack had a grin as he spoke to her, likely in response to assuage whatever concerns she felt the need to share. But Jack seemed as relaxed and non nonchalant as he always was, still smirking as he placed his hands on her upper arms and rubbed them soothingly.
Elsa turned her head and gave an eye roll exasperation, likely annoyed that he wasn't taking this seriously. With some tender words and more reassurances her face softened and she met his gaze. With an amused shake of her head and a breath of acceptance she gave a nod of understanding. Jack's smile widened and he arched a brow, giving her a look that she understood.
She blushed lightly, hesitating before giving a tiny bob of her head. With an exuberant laugh Jack quickly closed the distance to plant a kiss on her lips. Elsa's hands twitched at her side before coming up to grab two handfuls of his coat. She pulled him closer and returned it.
Their approaching comrades looked on with smiles at the display of tenderness between the two. Elsa tended to best exemplify what a Jedi should be most out of all of them. Compassionate, but also detached and aloof. So it was endearing to catch glimpses of her softer side.
The couple pulled away as the other pair reached them. Elsa took a step back, cheeks flushed in embarrassment at the public display of affection with her beloved.
"All set Hiccup?" Jack asked, not at all concerned with others seeing him exchanging a kiss with his partner.
"Pretty much," Hiccup said with a nod. "Merida, the pad please," he said to the red head.
"Aye," she said as she held it out for him. She also brushed some hair out of face and leaned in slightly, expecting a peck on the lips in farewell also.
"Thanks," he said as he accepted the pad. "Be back soon," he said before turning away to leave.
Merida blinked in surprise and watched him go. She was stunned he hadn't kissed her goodbye. They nearly always did and neither were particularly shy about small displays of affection. A seed of worry began to take root in her mind concerning their relationship. There was an awkwardness constantly hanging between them now. Following them around like oppressive clouds.
They were both pretending everything between them was fine. But they both knew that they were putting on a mask for normalcy.
Ever since the propo-
"I worry about letting those two go off together," Elsa said at her side.
Merida snapped from her thoughts as she glanced at the Jedi. "Do ye?"
Elsa nodded. "They're too similar. Jack is reckless whilst Hiccup is brash. Putting them together is almost guaranteeing trouble will follow in their wake."
Merida gave a light laugh and nodded in agreement. "Aye. But those two lads are also at their best when under pressure. They always pull through for everyone," she countered.
Elsa gave a thoughtful hum. "I suppose you're right about that," she conceded.
"They'll be fine, Elsa."
"Agreed."
In the cockpit of his freighter Jack was in high spirits as he did a systems check and prepared for take off. "Oh yeah! Hiccup and Jack! Off on another adventure!" he said with a whoop of laughter.
The pair had a fairly strong friendship and camaraderie. They both shared a love for flying ships of all types. Along with performing modifications to push any ship they got their hands on past it's limits. Hiccup and Jack had together even performed modifications on the Spirit, combining their technical skills to get the most out of the newly acquired freighter.
Hiccup chuckled in the co-pilot's chair. "It has been a while now, hasn't it?"
"Yeah it has. And while we're gone we can get back to settling our little debate," Jack replied while giving Hiccup a knowing look.
Hiccup arched a brow, "There's nothing to debate Jack. I'm the better pilot," Hiccup said matter-of-factly.
"Oh ho! So cocky," Jack replied with a humorous laugh.
Jack and Hiccup had been locked in a debate for some time now. Regarding who between them was the better pilot. Each confidently asserted their own skills were superior. It was all in good fun, but neither was willing to admit defeat. As the Spirit rose from the hangar floor they rehashed their arguments before shooting off into hyperspace.
With Hiccup gone Elsa took up the responsibility to spar and train with Rapunzel. Knight and Padawan faced off in a training area that was big enough to move around. Their allies watched on in interest, always amazed to watch the Jedi practice with each other.
And like many times before Rapunzel found herself struggling to win against the platinum blonde Jedi. She went at her, holding nothing back. But Elsa warded off her attacks calmly, an amused smile on her lips. Not at the Padawan's efforts, for she respected her tenacity. But because she always enjoyed sparring with her compatriots to pass the time.
Elsa parried Rapunzel's attack before sidestepping her follow up strike. Rapunzel quickly recovered and raised her saber up in time to block a counter. But Elsa halted her attack, using a feint, before coming at her from another direction. But the Padawan wasn't fooled as she parried the blue blade away.
Rapunzel countered with thrust. But Elsa simply pivoted on her feet, using her off hand to brush her arm to the side before quickly slashing at the Padawan's neck, only to stop just short of her skin. Rapunzel froze before sighing. She deactivated her weapon before dropping her stance and taking a step back.
Once again, Elsa had bested her.
"You've certainly come a long way," Elsa commented as she deactivated her lightsaber. "It takes me much longer to beat you now."
"And yet I still haven't managed to win. Not even once," Rapunzel said in frustration.
"No," Elsa conceded. "But it's a marked improvement that's certainly praiseworthy. You shouldn't feel bad Rapunzel," she added kindly.
Rapunzel let out a breath. Though Hiccup was her master she had learned a lot from the female Knight. But it frustrated her to no end that she'd never beaten her. She watched Elsa and Hiccup spar all the time to watch and learn. Most times Hiccup would win their duels. But Elsa only had slightly fewer victories while many of their sparring sessions ended in draws.
But Rapunzel had yet to best or even tie either of them.
Soon enough they were facing each other again. Elsa had her saber pointed straight up and close to her chest. She inched toward the Padawan slowly. Rapunzel readied herself and she held her lightsaber out toward the approaching knight, watching intently and assessing her opponent. Elsa fought so differently from Hiccup, their styles varying greatly. Elsa's was more patient and energy conserving. Defending and guarding as her opponent taxed themselves and grew more impatient, waiting for them to make a mistake.
Which she'd then capitalize on with deadly efficacy. Eventually Elsa was within striking range, but Rapunzel made no move. She stood stock still, entering a test of patience against the Knight. Elsa's face was calm, both hands curled around the hilt of her lightsaber as she took the Padawan in. Looking for a gap in her defense, a moment to strike.
They stood at a stalemate for a few moments. Silent and assessing, contemplating their next move while trying to gauge the other's. Finally Elsa broke the stalemate, bringing her saber up and thrusting it forward in a quick stab. Rapunzel batted the plasma blade aside before following up with a horizontal slash. But Elsa simply bent her body, letting her attack pass over her.
Elsa rose and followed up with a slash of her own. Rapunzel spun out of reach before turning to meet the knight's rush of strikes. The Padawan found herself on the back foot, struggling as she defended Elsa's attacks. She backed away as she blocked and narrowly avoided the blue plasma blade. Seeing a chance to turn the tables Rapunzel parried and then followed up with a forward slash.
But Elsa's experience and intuition allowed her to see through the Padawan's counter. Instead of backing away she took a step forward and then to the side. The blade passed through the space she'd just been as she poised her under the Padawan's chin. Rapunzel remained frozen, arms outstretched as she hadn't even had time to pull her weapon back to her body. She glanced down, seeing the blade under her chin before letting out a sigh.
Elsa deactivated her weapon and Rapunzel did the same. They faced each other before exchanging bows of respect.
"A good session," Elsa commended her as she clipped her light to her belt.
"Thank you, Elsa," Rapunzel replied respectfully.
Elsa could see the Padawan was a tad sullen at having lost once again. "Please don't feel upset, Rapunzel. You continue to improve with every duel."
"I know. It's just frustrating," Rapunzel muttered sourly.
"You shouldn't let your frustrations get the better of you," Elsa advised. She began to circle the Padawan. Rapunzel turned her head to watch her as she listened. "Your frustration and impatience can be used against you. It makes you vulnerable and easier to read. You must remember to keep a clear mind at all times," she finished, having made a full circle and coming to stand in front of her.
"Yes, Elsa," Rapunzel said with a nod.
"Good," Elsa said with a nod and a smile. "I think that's enough for today," the Knight said before giving Rapunzel a pat on the arm and a smile. Then she turned to leave.
Rapunzel watched her go before looking down and taking in her words. It was a basic lesson for all Jedi. To let go of one's feelings and fight with a sense of calm and focus. To remain in balance at all times. It was just a difficult thing to do.
"Elsa!" Rapunzel suddenly called, looking up. Elsa stopped and partly turned to look at the Padawan. "Can we go just one more time? Please?" she requested.
Elsa arched her brow. Rapunzel was usually content to let their sparring sessions end once Elsa deemed them done. She looked curiously at the Padawan as she met her gaze. She sensed the Padawan was eager for one last bout.
"Alright," Elsa agreed. She walked back to her fellow Jedi. Rapunzel backed away until she was a few back from the knight. Elsa grabbed her lightsaber in hand before igniting one of the blades. She held it up and outward, signaling she was ready when the Padawan was.
Rapunzel ignited her own blade and gripped the hilt tightly with both hands. Elsa, words suddenly flashed through her mind and she looked down at her hands. She realized her was holding the hilt very tightly. Tighter than she normally was. She knew that meant she was letting her frustration get to her. She chided herself, wondering what her master would say.
Her mind couldn't help but think of Aurora. Her first Jedi Master. She drifted back to her Master's lessons. She thought back to how she always seemed to fight with a sense of ease. She would probably give her advice similar to what Elsa had given her. She never could best her Master either. Of course she was so young back then. How could she have ever hoped to beat her Master?
Rapunzel closed her eyes and let out a breath. She focused her mind, trying to find balance. To let the Force guide her actions.
Elsa watched on. She cocked her brow as the Padawan closed her eyes and took a few steady breaths. Elsa noted the tension leaving her shoulders. She watched as Rapunzel rolled her head to the left. She heard a soft crack. She then rolled it to the other side. Elsa watched on, sensing a shift in the Padawan's usual demeanor.
As the Jedi were facing each other Merida and Eugene walked into the training area to check on them. They figured their sparring session would have been over by now. Upon seeing them they opted to watch, approaching and finding a place off to the side to stand and observe.
Rapunzel focused on her breathing as she delved further into her memories with her old Master. She'd been such an amazing Jedi and renowned for her unique swordplay. Many regarded her swordsmanship as the most beautiful and elegant in all the Order, having an almost dance-like quality. Even her Master likened lightsaber duels to dancing.
She'd explained to a younger Rapunzel that fighting and dancing had several similarities. She pointed out the importance of footwork, coordination, being able to grasp the rhythm of your opponent's attack like one would a dance partner, getting one's timing correct, and setting an appropriate pace to conserve energy and stamina. All which were important to both dueling and dancing.
As a young Padawan she understood in theory what her Master was trying to teach her. But her lightsaber skills at the time made it hard to put into practice for her. However, with how far she'd come...with her skill as they were now...maybe…
Elsa watched patiently as with one final breath, Rapunzel opened her eyes. They were focused and yet calm. At incredible speed Rapunzel sprang at her. Elsa was startled by the Padawan's bold opening move, expecting a bit more of a controlled approach. She sidestepped as Rapunzel's blade came down before following up with a swing at her exposed back, but Rapunzel slung her saber behind her back and blocked her attack.
As Elsa pulled her weapon back Rapunzel rose and gave a twirl, lashing out with a quick slash. Elsa backed away, the yellow blade from the Padawan narrowly missing. Elsa was about to counter as Rapunzel was shifting to a battle stance, but before she could her blade was knocked away. She was forced back in surprise, watching as Rapunzel had thrust her lightsaber at her from behind her back. She was surprised by the unorthodox move, having never seen the Padawan employ such an attack.
Elsa countered with a low slash at her legs. Rapunzel performed a jump with a twirl. The blade passed under her as Rapunzel struck back with a powerful swing. Elsa managed to put her blade up in time to block. Their blades clashed with a crash as everyone watched on.
Elsa pushed the Padawan away. Rapunzel lashed out with an upward swing. Elsa sidestepped before striking back. Rapunzel dropped to her knees and slashed at Elsa's midsection. Elsa leapt back to avoid it but Rapunzel followed up, spinning on a knee for a second attack. Elsa parried as Rapunzel leapt to her feet. She advanced on her, leaping left and then to the right as she closed the distance.
They traded attacks, parrying and countering, but neither getting in a decisive strike. Elsa was surprised by Rapunzel's change of tactics. She was employing moves the Knight had never seen her do before. Her footwork was different. What's more she seemed to be the one setting the pace for the duel.
Rapunzel had found her flow. She felt calm and completely in the moment. She could feel the rhythm of the battle. The timing of Elsa's counters. She felt like she could read Elsa's moves in a way she couldn't before.
But even with all of this the Knight didn't falter, meeting her blow for blow. Rapunzel wasn't surprised. Elsa wasn't a Jedi Knight and Hiccup's equal for nothing.
Elsa parried a strike before preparing to counter. Rapunzel instinctively knew it was going to be a thrust. She prepared, when Elsa began her attack Rapunzel bounded over her. She flipped over the Knight and landed at her back. She swung toward Elsa's neck but halted her attack just short of her skin.
Elsa was frozen on the spot, shocked at the conclusion of the duel. Outside the ring Merida and Eugene wore matching expressions of shock and awe, stunned at the outcome. They'd seen many of the Jedis' practice duels.
Rapunzel had always lost...until now.
For the first time, she'd managed to score a tie.
Rapunzel's eyes were down at her midsection. Staring at the tip of Elsa's lightsaber blade poised right at her stomach. The Knight's experience had allowed her to react quickly, spinning her blade around to position the tip of it at the Padawan's torso.
Rapunzel let out a small sigh, but she couldn't help but give a small smile. She deactivated her lightsaber and took a step back, allowing Elsa to rise. The Knight deactivated her weapon as well before turning to face the Padawan. She wore a proud smile on her face as she met her gaze.
"That was excellent Rapunzel," Elsa commended.
"Thank you, Elsa," Rapunzel replied bashfully.
"Sunshine!" Eugene cried aloud. He embraced her with a broad smile and lifted her off the ground before spinning her in a circle.
Rapunzel squealed in surprise and delight. "Eugene!" she cried, embarrassed but happy.
He set her down to look at her. "That was amazing, Rapunzel. I've never seen you fight like that."
"Me neither," Merida said from behind Elsa.
Rapunzel's cheeks were pink from all the praise being thrown her way. "Thanks. I don't know where it came from. I just felt it," she said with a shrug.
"I do," Elsa chimed in. They all looked toward her. "It took me a moment to recall, but the way you fought was similar to the way Master Aurora used to. Her style of swordplay always did have a unique dance-like quality."
Rapunzel thought back, realizing Elsa was correct. "Oh yeah."
"You did very well emulating it. It seems to suit you. But be careful not to copy it too rigidly. You must learn to adapt and make it your own."
"I understand," Rapunzel said with a nod.
"Still, I think this development further proves what Hiccup and I have been saying for some time now. You are ready to be a Jedi Knight now."
Everyone looked at Rapunzel as she looked away. She shifted awkwardly, the subject making her uncomfortable. She still felt something within herself telling her it wasn't time yet.
"Thank you Elsa. I will reflect on it."
With that the Jedi bowed to each other before Elsa took her leave. Merida went with her while Eugene stayed and continued to sing her praises. She blushed at his words but made no move to stop him. She did her best to remain humble, as a Jedi should, but she couldn't hide her grin.
Even if it was small, she felt she'd taken a step forward.
And that was something to be proud of.
Meanwhile, across the galaxy the Spirit flying away from a planet at fast as it's engines could take it. Following close behind were five Rihkxyrk Assault Fighters. The pursuing fighters were heavily armed, belonging to a group of pirates that had taken refuge on the planet Hiccup and Jack had been scouting for a potential ground base. They'd been attacked almost as soon as they were noticed and had immediately turned tail to flee.
Whilst fleeing the dorsal twin laser cannon fired from the light freighter and at their pursuers. In the cockpit Jack was at the controls, performing evasive maneuvers while trying to get the hyperdrive coordinates set.
"I thought the planet was supposed to be uninhabited!" Jack shouted in frustration.
From his position on the dorsal cannon Hiccup fired at the pirates, "Well I guess the pirates didn't get the message!" he shouted back. Her jerked the control, causing the turret to swivel as he tried to blast the enemy to bits.
From the lead fighter a concussion missile fired. Hiccup's eyes widened in alarm. "Missile incoming Jack!" he shouted to his comrade in warning.
Jack tensed as he heard the warning and saw the Spirit's alarm blare. With a quick jerk of the controls the freighter rolled to its left. Jack watched as the concussion sailed past them, narrowly missing the Spirit as it flew off into space and detonated.
Jack breathed a small sigh of relief before feeling the Spirit shake as it was hit by a blaster bolt that had managed to penetrate the freighter's shield. He looked ahead to see that some of the star fighters had split off and gotten ahead to flank him. Two were flying right toward him, firing their cannons.
The blaster bolts were absorbed by the shield, costing a lot of power. He watched the power levels drop with concern before firing a volley of shots from the Spirit's front guns. The freighter's bolts found their mark, destroying one of the fighters. It exploded and Jack directed the freighter into a dive.
"Nice shot Jack!" Hiccup commended.
"Thanks man! But how about you pick up the slack?!" Jack shouted back with pride and to tease his comrade.
"Yeah, I got it," Hiccup said lowly. He watched the remaining pirate make to follow them. But he predicted its trajectory and fired a few rounds. The first two missed before the third scored him a kill. It went up in a fiery mess.
"Good shot Hiccup!" Jack yelled. The ship shook and the controls sparked as another set of blaster bolts managed to penetrate the shields. Jack growled as he took his hands from steering to divert more energy to the rear shields from the engine.
The freighter slowed while the three starfighters gained on them.
"Jack?!" Hiccup called out in alarm.
"I got an idea! Be ready!" he replied as his hands took back control of the ship.
The fighters gained while firing. Jack swerved left and right and rolled the ship to avoid fire whilst letting the shields handle the one he couldn't dodge. He let the shields do their job, trusting the specs and capabilities of the Spirit.
The fighters gained more, closing the distance until he felt they were just the right distance.
"Now Hiccup!" Jack yelled. He accelerated while jerking the controls back. The freighter pitched upward to execute a loop. Whilst in the middle of the maneuver Hiccup acted quickly aiming the turbolaser and taking out one beneath them.
When the ship completed the loop the freighter found itself behind the fighters. Before they could veer off Hiccup quickly rotated the cannon to the front before firing on both fighters in quick succession. They were reduced to scraps that the Spirit blew right through. A series of shots like that would require quick reaction time, something Jack knew that his Jedi comrade had in spades.
"Whew!" Jack declared as he finally relaxed. He wiped sweat from his brow and sagged a bit in his chair. Just then the navicomputer signaled that the hyperspace route was set. He did a quick systems check of the freighter to see if anything had been damaged.
"Hey Hiccup! Looks like we took a bit of damage in that skirmish. I think we'll need to make a detour to make some repairs if we're gonna continue our scouting." Jack relayed.
"Got it," Hiccup said back in confirmation.
"I'm hungry too. Let's get some real food while we stop."
"Sounds good."
"Alright then," Jack said with a smile before directing the Spirit into hyperspace.
At a small spaceport free of Imperial activity the Spirit was being repaired by a Sullustan and his contingent of pit droids. While they were at work getting the freighter in working order Hiccup and Jack decided to hit up the local cantina to get some food that wasn't rations.
Hiccup had his lightsaber concealed, instead sporting a DL-18 blaster pistol that was holstered at his left hip. He wore his helmet as his face was more well known among bounty hunters, but not so much with it on. Jack simply pulled up his hood, believing he was relatively safe in a small spaceport like this one.
Everything had been going fine at first. They'd gone in and ordered some food. They were enjoying their respective meals, until Hiccup stopped in the midst of eating. Jack had noticed and asked him about this. Hiccup mentioned that he'd gotten a feeling. Jack took this seriously before glancing around. While doing so he noticed a few select individuals stealing glances at them. Jack could tell from just a glance what types of people they were dealing with.
Bounty hunters. All eyeing them up like they were a big score.
Jack sighed, putting down his utensils and wiping his mouth. He took one last swig of his drink before standing up. Hiccup did the same. Almost immediately the scrupulous individuals watching them were on alert.
The bounty hunters smiled and then all hands flew to their weapons.
From outside the cantina blaster discharge could be heard. Then civilians rushed out with screams of panic. Fighting, screaming, and the breaking of furniture could be heard from within.
Inside the bar Hiccup and Jack had made quick work of the majority of bounty hunters. Many lay dead on the ground or slumped against the walls with blaster holes through them. Though outnumbered both Hiccup and Jack were no strangers to fights, having fought against the Imperial forces countless times already. It also helped that the bounty hunters were fighting among themselves, all trying to claim the bounty without having to share.
As Hiccup was in a melee with a Rodian wielding a vibroknife Jack found himself pinned down against the cantina bar by an Ithorian. While the Ithorian's right hand was squeezing Jack's neck the other had his wrist in a tight grip, keeping him from using his blaster. Jack gasped for air, one hand around the Ithorian's wrist and the other pinned down. He tried to break the Ithorian's grip, but was outmatched in strength.
He was quickly running out of air as his vision began to tunnel. Mind racing he spied something from the corner of his eyes. Littering the counter were bottles and glasses of alcohol. Acting quickly he took his hand off the Ithorian's wrist and grabbed a bottle of some blue-green alcohol before bringing it up and smashing it against the Ithorian's T-shaped head.
The Ithorian grunted in pain but didn't release his grip. Reaching out again Jack wrapped his hand around a tall glass of another drink before doing the same. It shattered against the Ithorian and caused him to release Jack and stagger away in pain. As he rubbed his skull Jack quickly raised his blaster and fired a few shots into the Ithorian's torso.
The Ithorian released a death throe and fell to the ground. Jack rubbed at his neck and gasped for air before raising his blaster and firing a shot at Quarren bounty hunter rushing at him with weapon in hand and then a Twi'lek across the room who was about to level his own blaster at him.
Meanwhile, Hiccup was dodging the swipes and stabs of the armed Rodian bounty hunter trying to gut him. As the Rodian pulled back for a more powerful strike Hiccup prepared himself. He twisted his body to the side as the Rodian stabbed at the air where his throat would have been. Hiccup used that moment to grab the Rodian's outstretched arm before throwing him over his shoulder to slam him down through a wooden table.
With his hands still on the Rodian's wrist he twisted the bounty hunter's arm, making him cry out in pain and lose hold of his knife. Hiccup secured the weapon in hand and then kicked him across the face and knocked him out. He suddenly heard a cry and whirled around right as a large Ualaq Aqualish threw a blow his way. Hiccup backed up, only to hit a table. Acting quickly, he rolled over it as the Aqualish broke through it with a powerful strike.
It exploded into splinters before the Aqualish rose to throw more blows Hiccup's way. Hiccup quickly hurled the vibroknife into his adversary's chest. The Aqualish staggered back, collapsing onto a table. It split under his weight, sending splinters flying. He writhed in pain, eyes wide and arms reaching for the blade embedded in his chest. With a final breath he went still, life fading from his eyes.
Hiccup looked to his comrade in time to see him in a struggle with a Snivvian male. He watched as Jack whipped him across the face with his blaster. The Snivvian fell against the cantina bar and Jack followed up by pistol whipping him in the temple, knocking him unconscious. Jack stared down at his opponent, making sure he wasn't going to rise and continue fighting. When the Snivvian didn't move he took his eyes off him and looked toward his comrade.
Both Jack and Hiccup were breathing a little hard as they surveyed the room. All save them were either dead or unconscious. The two of them were relatively unharmed, only a little winded from all the struggle.
Hiccup walked up to Jack and asked, "You good?"
Jack leaned back against the bar with a loud and dreary exhale. "Yeah. I'm good," he confirmed with a nod.
Before they could do anything the door to the cantina swung open. Their attention immediately went in the direction of the entrance so see a Trandoshan stomp his way in. In his hand was an ACP Array gun. Almost immediately he began to raise it up. Hiccup and Jack acted quickly. Without thinking, both of them vaulted over the cantina bar to take cover. They crouched down and flinched as scattered shots of blaster bolts shattered the glass bottles of liquor on show behind the bar, taking out bits of the counter in the process.
"Come out whelps!" the Trandoshan called dangerously. He made a reptilian hiss, his excitement growing at the thought of scoring such a bounty and earning a good deal of points.
The men exchanged a glance as they stayed low. As they were in the midst of contemplating their next move Hiccup's eyes widened he suddenly shoved Jack away. He reeled back right as a hole was blasted in the bar. Jack's eyes widened and for the first time Hiccup contemplated drawing his lightsaber. He'd managed to avoid using it thus far, even when he'd lost his blaster in the fight he'd managed to neutralize all their attackers bare handed.
His hand began going for his weapon when a noise from Jack stopped him. He looked at his comrade to see him shaking his head, telling him not to do it. The last thing they wanted was word of a Jedi here. That would have Imperials flooding the sector. So far it seemed they were attacked because of Jack, obviously recognizing him from his bounty. They probably surmised Hiccup was a rebel as well and that they could get a decent reward off him too.
Hiccup made a gesture toward the entrance, asking Jack what they should do. He suddenly jerked back as another hole was blasted in the bar. Jack shook his blaster, indicating he had an idea. Then he waved his hand in the air, mimicking using the Force. Or at least that's what Hiccup was getting at before pointing toward the entrance.
The two knew each other well enough to not need words as Hiccup got the gist of the plan. He nodded in understanding as Jack raised a hand with four fingers up. He began to lower them, signaling a countdown. Hiccup tensed as Jack lowered his final finger. They both leapt to their feet.
The Trandoshan hesitated for only a split second before picking Jack as his target, likely because he had a weapon in hand. He took aim and was about to fire when Hiccup waved his hand. He focused on the bounty hunter's weapon. It suddenly jerked upward violently as he fired his shot.
A hole was blasted in the ceiling and the bounty hunter was dumbfounded. Jack capitalized on this moment and aimed his weapon before firing a single blaster bolt into his chest.
The Trandoshan released a grunt of pain, eyes bulging as he dropped his weapon. He fell to his knees before falling flat onto the floor, dead.
Jack released a breath and lowered his weapon. He paused to look around and wait to see if any more bounty hunters were going to appear. It was thankfully silent, and with that he holstered his blaster.
Hiccup let out a breath as well before coming around the bar and glancing around for his blaster. He spied it among the bodies and bits of broken bar furniture before extending a hand out and drawing it to him with the Force. It flew to his hand and he holstered it.
He looked toward Jack to see him holding a holopuck. It was projecting a hologram of him. Then it switched to Elsa, Merida, their other friends, and finally Hiccup himself.
The Jedis' bounties were significantly high, being they were high priority targets for the Empire.
Jack gave a whistle, "Dang. I'm getting up there," he commented.
"You sound almost proud," Hiccup quipped.
Jack shrugged, a smirk on his face. "What can I say? I like all the excitement," he said with a grin. "Still nowhere near Rapunzel, Elsa, and you though."
"Oh yeah. Danger, love it," Hiccup said sarcastically in response.
"What? It's a lot of credits is all. Man, with that much money I could probably buy a planet," Jack said teasingly.
"Speaking of planets, we should probably get off this one," Hiccup said as he jabbed a finger downward.
"Right. Let's jet," Jack said in agreement.
With that they moved hurriedly back to the Spirit and were thankful to find it back in peak condition. They thanked and paid the Sullustan before leaving the planet. Jack punched in the coordinates with Hiccup in the co-pilot's chair. In the next moment they were shooting off into hyperspace.
An Imperial Sentinel-class landing craft came out of hyperspace on a forgotten world. It was a small moon orbiting the giant gas planet known as Yavin Prime. The ship was carrying a small contingent of Nightsisters. Heather was at the bridge, with two witches on the controls.
Before her was a holoprojected image of Mother Gothel's face. She was looking Heather in the eyes as she spoke to her. "Have you found the planet then, Heather?"
The witch nodded in confirmation. "Yes, Mother. Exactly as you said we would."
Gothel gave a proud smirk. "But of course. The spirits would never lead us astray. Now go down to that planet, find the Sith temple, and recover the treasure inside," Gothel said to remind her of their purpose.
"Be sure that the Emperor does not hear of this," Gothel added, tone and expression deadly serious.
"Understood," Heather said dutifully. With her mission clear the matriarch ended the transmission.
The ship entered the planet's orbit and they flew along, eyes peeled until one of the witches saw something peeking out from the expanse of trees. Heather directed them to fly to it, and to their satisfaction they came upon a pyramidal type structure. It was made of stone and looked to be ancient. Weathered rock and vines could be observed all around the outside surface.
They put the ship down among the trees behind the temple before exiting. As soon as they stepped out of their ship they could feel the faint traces of the darkside coming from the structure. It was old, and small. Like a cinder. But it was also so inviting.
She and her sisters rushed to the temple before climbing the structure and making their way in. They let their senses guide them until reaching a large chamber. They spread out while Heather scanned the walls and architecture within, looking for any clues as to the treasure their leader had spoken of. She could sense it, calling out to them. Like a melodic black song.
Then her eyes were drawn to the floor. She walked to the center of the room before kneeling down. She brushed dust and debris aside as she made out markings she'd learned from the clan's Sith holocron. She raised a hand up and snapped her fingers, signaling the other witches to approach. They heeded her silent command and circled around her.
The closer they all drew to the center of the room the more they could feel the ancient power. The remnants of ancient Sith sorcery. So unlike their own magics, yet tantalizing all the same. Heather was about to give orders when her head snapped up from the floor.
Heather stood, looking up at the ceiling as she sensed something. Something was coming. Something interesting. She looked to the other witches who waited in silence. She gave a hand signal, telling them all to hide in wait. They nodded as they scattered to the shadows to prepare for an ambush.
Heather turned and ran from the room, following her path as the feelings grew stronger. She emerged from the temple and looked to the midday sky to see a ship approaching. She climbed higher, scaling the surface and vaulting upward until she reached the top.
The ship was getting closer. With its approach came a growing sense of excitement. She felt her rate rise in anticipation. She watched the ship grow nearer as a tingle traveled up her spine and goosebumps broke out on her skin.
Someone was coming. Someone with power.
Someone...strong.
new chap.