Chapter Text
"It was cool
Nothing Fire
Nothing broke..."
In a distant galaxy, far from the reaches of the Galactic Empire, three force wielders found themselves stranded on a desolate planet, struggling to survive. Ahsoka Tano, once a Jedi Padawan of Anakin Skywalker, now a wise and powerful Jedi in her own right, took it upon herself to bring together the three strangers - you, Shin, and Sabine - for a trust building exercise. Ahsoka had noticed the tension between the three of you over the past couple of weeks. Shin, a fierce and distrustful warrior, did not like you being there at all. She believed you were hiding something, and she was not one to trust easily. Considering her own Master still plagued her thoughts. Sabine, a skilled Mandalorian warrior with a mysterious past, had been acting strange ever since the day she disappeared without a word to anyone, only to reappear in the T-6 ship the next morning without explanation.
You, on the other hand, was alone when you had crash-landed on the planet. Ahsoka and her companions had found you wounded and helpless, and had taken you in, healing your injuries. But you were still treating the wound that had brought you crashing down to this barren world, and you had nowhere to go. You needed to get off the planet to finish your own personal mission, a secret you had not shared with anyone.
As Ahsoka gathered the three of you together, she could sense the tension in the air. There was constant arguing and shade being thrown between the three of you, each one wary of the others and unwilling to open up. Ahsoka knew that in order to survive, you would need to trust each other and work together, but she also knew that it would not be an easy task.
She stood before Shin, Sabine, and you, a determined look on her face. The Jedi adjacent Master knew that tensions had been rising between the three of you over the last couple of weeks, and she was determined to put an end to it. "We are all strangers stranded on this planet. But we cannot get anything done if we cannot trust each other. The constant fighting and arguing take a toll on all of us whether we realize it or not." She said firmly.
The Togruta then led the three of you to a clearing in the open land. She explained that trust was crucial if you were going to survive together on this planet until help arrived or the ship was fixed.
The exercise began with a simple task - each of you had to share a secret, something that you had not told anyone else. You went first, revealing a small truth about your past.
“I…pull on the dark side when fighting. It was something that I was taught long ago. Vaapad was apparently a family style that I've grown accustomed to. Its challenging not fighting with it.“ Ahsoka studied you some before looking to Shin and Sabine in question. Shin was quick to voice her concerns.
“Is this not a clear indication she's bad new?“ Shin scoffed at your story, convinced that you were lying, while Sabine remained silent, her eyes betraying a hint of understanding.
“Shin, you stabbed Sabine and we were able to let it go. We have no reason not to trust her or her words. She's been nothing but helpful since arriving. I feel you're deflecting from what's truly bothering you.“ Ahsoka spoke calmly- waiting for Shin to tell everyone something about herself. The latter sat steaming. This was idiotic. The whole situation. And the only one to really blame for it was her Master. He's the reason she's even here. Letting out a sigh in defeat- she gathered her thoughts. She wouldn't tell them much. Just enough for a little room to breath.
“My….I dream of my Master sometimes. He helped me when I needed it most. He was there. My family were- they're not around. I just don't understand why he left me. It feels like a part of me is missing. I just- I feel so-”
“Lost?“ The Mandalorian piped in. She held a void gaze. The bags under her eyes a bit darker than usual.
Do you truly feel lost? If so I can help you find yourself, the best version of you.
Closing her eyes tightly, she balled her fist resisting the urge to respond aloud. “I can't sleep, every time I close my eyes all the shit I've done is on replay. Like I'm watching through someone else's eyes…” She pitched in.
Maybe you don't deserve this life. Maybe this is the Forces way of telling you just that.
Shut UP! Just STOP!
Rising to her feet before anyone could interfere, Sabine stomped back to the T-6. It was way too early for this shit. She didn't plan on bearing her soul to people she met over the course of the last few months. She didn't like talking about herself at all. Many sacrifices were made to get where she is. Reliving the guilt seemed to do more harm than good.
Ahsoka ended up ending the “exercise” early. More concerned with her padawans rushed leave. It was her duty as her Master to make sure she was genuinely ok, being keen on not letting her down for a second time. When she got to the ship however, Sabine was already back asleep. The night terrors had been taking a chunk of her rest. Deciding on skipping training for the day, she wrote a note and placed it near her boots. The Togruta had a few things to attend to with Huyang anyway- but she also needed advice from the old droid.
《¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤》
Sabine sat upright, a fire lit in her eyes as she stalked into the kitchenette. She was exhausted, her body ached from the restless sleep she had the night before. Strange dreams had been plaguing her lately, leaving her feeling more drained than ever. She was tired, weary from the constant battle of waking up on the grotty planet in a deserted galaxy- trying to shake off another odd encounter that had haunted her slumber once again. With a sigh, she sank into a chair at the table sporting a grim expression, her gaze locked on Shin, the silver-haired mercenary who sat across from her. A freshly brewed cup of tea in her hands.
“Any more caf left?“ She questioned the Sith adjacent mercenary who's thoughts seemed occupied elsewhere as she sat tapping her mug.
“No. I'm sure your new Jedi friend has something to do with it…” She spoke, eyeing the Mandalorian over her cup as she sipped. Rolling her eyes, Sabine stood up. Reaching her arms over her head as she stretched.
“Watch it blondie, the green-eyed monster is showing…” She said smirking at Shin while she put her cup back down, slightly rougher than before.
“And she's not my friend.“ Sabine commented heading to the refresher. Shin finished her last bit of tea before going over to the sink to wash it out.
“Good morning.“ A voice echoed a few feet behind her. She didn't respond, alread knowing who the culprit was. You smiled menacingly at the clear hatred the woman harbored for you.
“Right, forgot you literally hate me. Gosh you'd think you'd have gotten over it by now…” You stated, walking over beside where she stood near the sink. You wore your grey tank and a pair of loose-fitting sweats Ahsoka let you borrow. She had been helping you do some exercises in the mornings for your leg and hip. You're at about eighty percent better health wise because of it.
Still disregarding your presence, she sat the mug on the counter, albeit a little roughly, before turning to you with those fervent, tempestuous eyes you'd grown accustomed to. You eyed her back lazily- quite over the whole “stranger danger” arc she seemed oh so obsessed with.
“When are you gonna get over yourself? It's got to be exhausting walking around with a stick shoved so far up your a-” You halted promptly. Mid sentence as Shin glared at you with those wild eyes, like a lion on a hunt. It wasn't until a second later that you looked to her hovering hand clutched tightly in a balled fist. What the f- Gasping for air with your eyes beginning to water, you thought quick- throwing a hand out to push her hard with the energy you could muster up in the moment. She flew back against the far wall near the table.
Leaning on the counter as you heaved heavily and wheezed to catch your breath, you could see through your peripheral that she was beginning to stand up from where she'd “fallen”.
“…What (gasp) the (gasp) actual…FUCK!“ You exclaimed, still somewhat out of breath. Just then the Togruta decided to make an appearance. She glanced over to where Shin stood. The missionary was breathing hard, eyes stilled at you with a deep blaze within. She was definitely not done with you.
“Is everything…good here?“ Ahsoka moved her gaze over to you as she spoke.
Your hands were violently shaking as you glared back at the silver-haired lunatic. You slowed your own breathing to stop yourself from doing something that might get you out of a place to lay your head. Even if it is justified. Clearing your throat you looked over to Ahsoka- a small smile taking over your once infuriated expression.
“Everything's great Master Tano,” You glanced back over to where Shin stood. Her features were now calmer though her eyes were still ablaze. “Is there anything you'd like my assistance with?“
Ahsoka studied the two women, gaze flitting over from one to the other. Nodding in credence, still skeptical, she headed to the cockpit for a tool. Shin stormed out of tge ship, needing to cleat her thoughts. Maybe meditating? Anything to get her mind off the newcomer she's grown to hate.
You leaned your back against the counter, fingers ghosting over your throat as your own thoughts wondered. You really needed to get back to your mission. Staying here was doing little to what you would've accomplished had Thrawn not found out you were tailing him.
《¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤》
Sabine sat sketching in her notebook on her bed, distracting herself from the worries and what ifs that plagued her mind. She still hadn't told Ahsoka about the eerie trip she'd taken in the dead of night from weeks before. It seemed silly in regards to what they needed done now. Her Master thought it'd be a good idea for a rest day, considering they've been nonstop training for days. Not to mention, Huyang needed her attention for the diagnostics on the ship repairs. The Noti had given them pointers on where to find ship parts across the planet. It was a slow but sure process that'll, at most, take another month before they were ready for liftoff.
Trying to focus on the task at hand, it was going almost nowhere. She had no inspiration, no drive, zero people to go to with her problems so this was the next best thing. And even this was failing miserably for a hindrance. Thinking Shin could be that person was out the window since she's pretty in tune with the Force. She figured she already knew something was up but it went both ways. And if she wasn't gonna talk to her or Ahsoka then it was only a matter of time before she blew up. Maybe they'd be on better terms if she actually knew why the mercenary wanted to distance herself in the first place. But that was old news, and Sabine wouldn't dare reach out to someone who clearly didn't want it. Besides, she had her own shit to deal with.
For example, another voice in her head that liked to pitch in on random matters that obviously didn't concern them. She had begun asking Huyang the meaning of it but he started freaking out halfway through on whether she was headed a good direction or not. Afterwards, the Mandalorian just abandoned the conversation altogether.
As she tore another page out- balling it up for the fourth time time, a shadow brought her out of her head. Upon seeing who it was she let out a grumpy grumble.
“What do you want?“ You stood around with a smirk present while you gazed at what the warrior had drawn so far. She closed it shut, sitting it beside her while she leaned back in her bed on her hands- waiting for you to continue. You cleared your throat before going in.
“I have a suggestion you might want to hear?“ You said, raising a brow up slightly. She eyed you suspiciously, then guided her head up some, the curiosity getting the better of her.
“Do you…wanna spar?“ Sabine's eyes narrowed as she considered the offer to spar. She had always prided herself on her combat skills, but her recent dreams had left her feeling off balance. Still, the idea of taking out her frustrations on someone, even if it was the smug newcomer who seemed to have a target on her back already, was tempting.
"Are you serious?" She asked, crossing her arms over her chest. "You think a little sparring session is going to make everything okay?"
You shrugged nonchalantly, a playful glint in your eyes. "It might be fun, Sabine. Plus, I think we both could benefit from some physical activity to blow off some steam."
Sabine scoffed at the suggestion, her eyes narrowing as she regarded you with a mix of disbelief and amusement. As she considered the proposition, her gaze fell upon your leg, where a bandage was through the sweats you wore. You were injured; a fact you seemed to have conveniently forgotten about. “Aren't you still…injured?”
She asked, her tone softening slightly. This acknowledgment of vulnerability from someone you had perceived as overly confident and somewhat irritating shifted something within. Maybe this was exactly what you both needed—a way to confront your limitations and perhaps find common ground.
You chuckled at her concern, waving off her question with a dismissive gesture. "I'll be fine, Sabine. A little spar won't hurt me," you replied confidently, a smirk playing on your lips. "Besides, Ahsoka's been helping me do exercises every morning. And I could really use the release."
Sabine looked you over warily, still unsure about the idea of sparring with you. She also knew you were skilled in combat, but she couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to your offer than just a friendly match. The room filled with a tense silence as you both contemplated the implications of a sparring match.
For the Mandalorian, it was an opportunity to channel her burgeoning frustrations into something productive, to regain the balance she felt slipping away. For the you, it was a chance to put your energy somewhere productive. With what Shin had the audacity to do earlier- you really wanted to wipe the floor with her, but knowing it'll do more harm than good was enough for you to reconsider. So settling for a release through your favorite activity- would have to do. As you both stared at each other, a mutual understanding began to form. This spar, though seemingly trivial, could be the catalyst for much-needed change and healing.
"Fine," She finally relented, pushing herself off the bed and standing up to face you. "Don't expect me to go easy on you."
You grinned, the challenge sparking a fire in your own eyes. "Wouldn't have it any other way."
With that, the two of you made your way to the training area on the ship, a wide open space with the weapons placed off to the side. Grabbing the wooden staffs, you tossed one to where she was stationed at. Sabine wasted no time in slipping into a fighting stance, her movements fluid and precise as she fiddled with her weapon. You grinned, a glint of excitement in your eyes as you took a step back, assuming a defensive stance. The adrenaline pumping through your veins as you prepared to face off against the Mandalorian warrior.
With a nod of mutual respect, Sabine and you positioned yourselves at opposite ends of the training room. The air crackled with anticipation, as each of you gripped the training staffs—a symbol of readiness and your commitment to what was about to unfold.
The duel commenced with Sabine taking the initiative, her movements solid and fluid. She lunged forward, staff twirling in a mesmerizing dance, aiming to test your defense. You responded with surprising agility, parrying Sabine's attacks with a skill that belied your previously smug demeanor and visible injuries.
The intensity of the engagement escalated rapidly, transforming the match into more than just a simple test of physical prowess. It was a chess match of strategy and intuition, with each participant reading and predicting the other's moves. Sabine attempted a daring feint, a maneuver designed to deceive and break through her opponent's guard. However, you, with keen perception, saw through the deception and responded with a rapid counterstrike, forcing Sabine to backpedal and reassess. Your exchange, a symphony of motion and counter-motion, reflected not just your skills but a deepening mutual respect.
As the match progressed, it became clear that this was not merely a physical contest, but also one of wits and willpower. Sabine, with her experience, anticipated and maneuvered, while you, driven by determination, adapted and countered.
It was evident that the duel was drawing on the depths of both your stamina and resolve. Droplets of sweat traced paths down your foreheads, a testament to the rigor and the mental focus the spar demanded. Each move, each swing and each block, was executed with a precision that came from years of training, honed instincts, and an unyielding spirit. Despite the physical toll, neither Sabine nor you yielded, each blow countered with equal force, each maneuver met with a cunning response. The training room echoed with the sounds of the staffs clashing, a rhythmic beat that matched the rapid drumming of their hearts.
Why are you holding back? Show her where you come from.
Sabine stood up straight again, her muscles tensed and ready for action. She sat her staff down near the wall- switching over to a different method. You copied her before getting back to your stance- now with just your wits to defend yourself. The two of you circled each other, sizing up your opponent and waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Sabine made the first move, lunging forward with a swift kick aimed at your midsection. You dodged easily, countering with a series of quick punches that forced Sabine to backpedal once more.
The spar continued on, each of you trading blows and blocks with precision and skill. The sound of fists meeting flesh echoed through the room, punctuated by the occasional grunt or curse as one of you landed a solid hit.
As the minutes passed, the intensity of the spar only grew, both of you pushing yourselves to the limit in an effort to outmatch the other. Sweat dripped down your brow, your muscles burning with exertion as you fought tooth and nail for the upper hand.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Sabine managed to land a decisive blow, sending you stumbling back with a grunt of pain. She stood over you, victorious and panting, a triumphant smile on her face. In a moment of weakness, you took the chance to sweep her legs- causing her to fall on her back with loud grunt. Before she could get up, you quickly straddled her with a raised fist to finish her off. But when she looked up at you, you hesitated- going against everything you were taught. She breathed heavily. Out of breath and out of moves with the way you cornered her.
You know how to win...
"You're not bad," She admitted, a small making its way on her lips. "But next time, don't underestimate me."
“Please, just because you're Mandalorian doesn't mean you're bound to win every fight.“ You waited for her sarcastic response that usually followed but she only stared back up at you. Something swirling in her chestnut eyes. Lowering your fist, you cleared your throat.
"I never said I was bound to win every fight," Sabine replied, her voice soft but firm. "I do always find a way on top." And with that she flipped you over with surprising strength and speed. It was your turn to grunt in response. She grabbed your hands and pinned them over your head. Her smirk was back and teasing as she gazed down at you.
“Wow, I feel like this should be classified as cheating somewhere…” Your breathing began to even out as you tried to wiggle from underneath her. Right. Mandalorian strength was a thing.
“Yield.“
“No.“
“Seriously? Even now??“ You gave a nonchalant shrug in return. Your Masters taught you what to do if you were ever trapped like such- but this wasn't a real fight. And you liked having the purple-haired Mando around. Even if she was annoying at times. She was someone to at least talk to. It wouldn't help any better if she were dead.
She readjusted her position on you, leaning down to taunt you some more. “Are you sure, I'm almost positive your leg and hip are killing you right now. Just yield and this would all be over.“ Leaning up slowly, you could see her brows knit in confusion- her grip unknowingly loosening up. Before she had a chance to take notice- you used the Force to help you flip her back over. Taking your position on her lap once more.
“You were saying?“ Sabine laid wide eyed, feeling like the biggest idiot ever to let herself slip like that.
“This doesn't mean you win. Either way, you'd be dead right now had this been a real fight.“ She spoke, leaning up on her elbows. Looking up at you her breath hitched slightly.
“Right.“
You couldn't help but admire her determination, even in the face of defeat. There was something about her that drew you in, something that made you want to know more about her. And as you looked into her eyes, you saw a vulnerability that you hadn't noticed before.
"I'm sorry," you said, feeling a pang of guilt for almost striking her. "I didn't mean to go that far."
Sabine nodded, her expression softening. "It's okay. We both got carried away in the heat of the moment."
You offered her a hand to help her up, and she took it gratefully. As she stood, you couldn't help but notice how close you were to her, how the air between you seemed charged with something unspoken.
"Maybe we should call it a draw," Sabine suggested, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.
This is going to be another problem for you to vanquish in the future.
Shut it!
You nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over you. "I think that's a good idea."
And as the two of you stood there, breathing heavily and covered in sweat, a newfound camaraderie formed between you. The spar may have started as a way to blow off steam, but it had ended as a bonding experience, solidifying the beginning of a partnership that would soon be put to the test in ways neither of you could have imagined.
"I think we should spar more often. Without the close calls…" She nodded in agreement. A newfound respect for Sabine's skills blooming in your chest as you wiped yourself down with a spare towel.
And as you both walked away from the sparring ring, a new understanding between you, you couldn't help but wonder what the future held for the two of you. Maybe, just maybe, this unexpected encounter would lead to something more than just a rivalry.
《¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤》
“Here you are.“ Shin opened her eyes, the annoyance clear at being interrupted from her quiet spot she'd found weeks before. Coming here often to meditate or just clear her head. You were often times the cause of it. It was usually Sabine but it seemed like you'd taken up all of her thoughts since arriving.
“No need to choke me or anything. I'm only here to apologize.“ You spoke, hands up in a surrender as you slowly walked towards where she sat. You could see the conflict in her intense eyes.
“How did you find me?“ The mercenary asked more concerned with that fact.
“Well you're not the only one well versed in the Force.“ You chuckled but quieted down when she didn't join.
“Your thoughts are kinda loud. And I know I'm probably the cause. I wanted to apologize since I provoked you. It was uncalled for and it's clear you don't like me. I don't know what came over me…” For once, Shin took notice of the fact you avoided her eyes. And you kept your hands up while kicking the dirt some. For the first time since you landed here- you were being vulnerable. And with her of all people.
“Why are you here?“ She then questioned. Studying you as she waited for a response.
“Um…to apol-”
“No. I mean here on this planet. What is the true reason you're here?“ You took a moment to think of your response. Looking back to those icy eyes that stayed on you.
“Well, in a way, the same reason you are.“ Shin scoffed- ready to dispute your claim until you continued.
“Earlier, you said your Master left you here. I'm guessing as his padawan you followed him here loyally. Because you care for him in a way no one had for you before. I'm sure he cares for you deeply. It might be the reason he decided to leave you behind? Either way I get it. I'm in a similar situation.“ Shin sat there thinking over your words. She'd hate to admit you made a compelling point. But it didn't explain her Master appearing in her dream. And it was suspicious he hadn't shown himself in some weeks. Looking back up to you intently, she stood up.
Not knowing what she'd do next, you took a few steps back.
“I'm not going to fight you. I want a truce.“ You eyed her dubiously, unsure of why she'd be so willing for a truce now. Then it dawned you.
“You want something in return, right?“ You asked lowering your hands. Now towering over you- she stretched out a hand.
“Maybe. I don't trust you, but I'm willing to be at least cordial. I have other things on my mind.“ It was now you who stood in thought- looking at her outstretched hand.
“If…If you want to talk. I'm here. I know I'm not the ideal person and that you trust nothing I say or do- but I want to make it clear. I'm hear if you want to squash whatever this is for good. Is that…ok?“ Shin gazed at you, beginning to read your intentions through the Force. This time however- you let her. Opening yourself up in a way you hadn't done in a very long time. Once she got the answer, and much more, that she was looking for- she nodded motioning to her outstretched hand she still held out. You grabbed it firmly shaking it as she did the same.
You let a small smile stretch across your face. The corners of her lips turned upright, but she remained stoic. As you walked back to the camp she watched on, still reeling from the emotions she'd felt within you. With that confirmation that you were indeed being truthful- she couldn't stop thinking about the way you felt. Out of everything, loss was among the most potent emotions you had. And she knew what that type of pain that felt like-the things it could drive you to do for the people you loved.
"No Return
No Return
No Reason..."