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Ariel was about ready for the first thing she said to Pryde to be to take the red lined uniforms and shove them somewhere unpleasant. She hoped Gideon listened to Kylo when he said no red. She didn’t want to fit in here. “Do they have something against redheads here? I’m telling you, redheads are just like the Chiss. Red hair, red eyes. No one wants to see us succeed.”

“Ariel, please. Marginalization is an actual issue amongst aliens,” Paquin shook her head. “And how would you explain General Hux? He’s rather accomplished.”

“His father hates him. Literally sent him off to what was supposed to be his death.”

“But Commandant Hux is a redhead himself.”

“Well. You wouldn’t understand. You have brown hair.” Ariel said as she reached out, twirling one of Paquin’s brown curls around her finger, only for her hand to be shooed away by the other woman. But Ariel didn’t miss the small smile that grew on her face. Then she looked at the others, “All of you have brown hair. It all makes sense now.”

Nothing made sense. But that no longer mattered as they were upon this conference room, greeted by a long table and strange chairs filled with officers. Ariel could only assume that at one end of the table was this Pryde. “Supreme Leader Ren, Knights, good morning. Please, join us,” Pryde gestured to the seats opposite his own before he took his own seat, “I’m sure there’s much you’d like to discuss. I might begin by mentioning the current timeline for the meeting we spoke about. On such short notice, it works out for most to meet in two days time.”

-

“I am kind of beginning to wonder why so many Darths wanted apprentices when most of them ended up trying to kill their masters,” he could see why an apprentice would want a master. They’d have someone to teach them things, give them better opportunities. But what did people like Darth Bane gain from it? Was it common for them to want to hop bodies or something?

Finn didn’t think Mira really had the answers. Not for the Sith.

His smile mirrored Mira’s when she said he was ready to try a lightsaber, “It’s about time!” He’d achieved his goal, he’d gotten the Sith holocron open, as difficult as it was. Kept it open, which was a challenge in itself. But he’d done it! So, yeah, he felt pretty ready to tackle this lightsaber thing. And of course he couldn’t have done it without Mira, so he made a mental note to thank her for all of this.

For teaching him. For believing he could do...any of it.

Finn set the Sith holocron aside, not particularly concerned with separating it from the others. It was interesting, but it was brief and Finn wasn’t really sure if Mira had gotten anything helpful from it. It did seem like it was meant for someone specific, who already knew certain things. It wasn’t all that important to them, really.

But what was, was his kyber crystal, which he realized Kevan wouldn’t be able to communicate with them once he used it to make a lightsaber. Well, Kevan could apparently ignite lightsabers, but Finn would prefer it if he didn’t. Finn pulled the crystal from his pocket, floating over the parts that he’d collected from Mira’s room. And he ought to pull out Ariel’s saber, too, for reference. “Okay. How do we...do I start with constructing the hilt?” Because the lightsaber had to have something to go into, right?
 
Kylo managed not to roll his eyes or react much at all to Ariel’s complaining about red hair, and being hated.

“There’s a reason for the phrase red-headed step-child,” Gnaeus murmured after Paquin made her remark about marginalized aliens. Hux was hated, that was clear. And not many people liked Brendol, either. Or Tarkin. Or Sheev. There might be something to be said about gingers, and maybe someone had even researched this.

Gnaeus just enjoyed egging Ariel on, a little bit.

‘The only one who didn’t have brown hair….’ Kylo had the thought, but said nothing. He still didn’t want to think about Mira standing against him on Korriban. At least he’d tainted her non-brown locks when he destroyed the kyber in her hair. That was a truly stupendous decision on her part.

Thankfully, the dialogue was broken up by their return to the conference room, and so many familiar faces in chairs. Kylo didn’t know half of them. He knew Pryde, though, and he moved to take a seat at the helm of one end of the table as the man explained that in two days, they would have a meeting. “Excellent.” That was good enough news. That was time enough to get the armor, he hoped.

Time enough to figure out something to present to the group, for action.

“I need to know the situation with the First Order – how Brendol was ousted so quickly, and if it would be worthwhile to attempt to take it over once more before this meeting,” or if his time was better spent elsewhere.

Ever-Helpful Alsen was the first to speak up, to provide the details, “Brendol Hux Jr. returned to the Finalizer with the aid of Lieutenant-General Phasma, and we suspect a few other insiders, notably Colonel Mitaka. Upon his return to the Finalizer, Hux senior simply could not maintain control. The officers and troops fell to Hux junior’s command immediately, and Hux senior was arrested. He remains alive as far as we know.”

Taking over the First Order would be a longer game, and require them to infiltrate the other ships, first. They needed a controlling presence which they did not have.

~***~

Mira really didn’t have an answer about Sith behavior. It was strange to her. One of the reasons she definitely didn’t want to be a Sith, so all she could do was shrug. “You’d have to ask a Sith.” Not that there were any left. At least, not that they knew about. Mira didn’t want to deal with a Sith on top of everything else they were dealing with.

Mira drew her own lightsaber out as Finn took the kyber out, and the various pieces he had gathered. “No,” Mira denied as Finn questioned whether or not he started with the hilt, “You start with the crystal.”

As she said it, she lifted her saber with the Force, and began to deconstruct it, slowly, so Finn could see all of the parts until she eventually got down to the crystal, “Everything is constructed around the crystal,” she said, as she floated her own crystal up a bit higher, “You focus on it, you communicate with it, in a vein similar to the holocrons. You will reach out to it, and it will reach out to you.”

And so would begin the dialogue. “I usually think of a word to focus on…a goal, an ideal, to help speak to the crystal and let it know what I’m seeking from it. My first lightsaber had been green, and back then, I’d focused on control.” A control she never grasped, “For this, I focused on the thought of mending.”

And now she may be irreparably damaged.

Life wasn’t turning out great for her, was it?

“It’s not necessary,” it wasn’t something Kylo did, “but it helps me,” she lowered it, and slowly began to reconstruct the lightsaber around it, so Finn could see.
 
Paquin and Ariel moved to find seats of their own, Ariel briefly messing with Paquin by trying to take the seat next to Kylo. Of course, though, Ariel relented and took up the seat on the other side of Paquin. They did get a look, though. Ariel mouthed to Paquin that their redheads being at a disadvantage conversation wasn’t over. Paquin wondered how they would ever be taken seriously.

Were they taken seriously?

They settled in time to listen to Alsen’s retelling of General Hux’s reclamation of the Order, though Ariel couldn’t help but find herself irritated by Alsen’s voice. Why was he everywhere? Did he ever sleep or take breaks? He was probably a cyborg. Pryde’s voice was nice, though.

“I don’t believe an attempt to take over the First Order now would be wise. Hux Junior has proven that he provides some form of effective leadership within the First, trying to infiltrate within a two day timeframe will likely do more harm than good,” Pryde advised. “It will be a long term task, overtaking the First Order. We’re all aware it’s much more sophisticated than the pesky Resistance. Fortunately, we’ve more advanced technologies, and methods.” Better soldiers.

Better secrets.

“So how sizable is the...Final Order, exactly? In comparison to the First Order? What makes you so confident you're special?” Ariel was the one to ask it. The base itself didn’t seem terribly large, but she'd heard of multiple bases at that point.

-

Finn watched as Mira deconstructed her lightsaber, reconstructed it. She spoke of words, goals, to focus on. She mentioned her first saber and her new one, but he was curious as to what she’d focused on when she made her red one she had with the Knights. He knew the color wouldn’t have been affected, synthetic crystal and all, but did the communication still apply?

He looked to his collection of parts. He supposed he didn’t really have a choice in what color or style his hilt would be, the options were limited to what scraps he’d found. But, if it was so easy to take apart as Mira had shown, he could always make adjustments later, right?

It was the crystal that was the essential part.

He laid out the pieces, similar enough to what he’d seen of Mira’s. Some differences of course, he didn’t think that was avoidable. But he still felt like he was missing some things. His eyes wandered to Ariel’s. The redhead wasn’t getting it back anytime soon, or ever, so he lifted it with the Force and messed around with it, trying to deconstruct it as he’d seen. He just needed a few parts, and he’d sort through them once the thing was pulled apart.

It helped him mentally imagine how he’d piece it together, after he...spoke with the crystal. “Now’s the time to place your bets on what color it’s gonna be,” Finn himself wondered, he wished he had a way to choose. “What do you think of this?” He asked in reference to the technical part, if she thought it would all work once he had the crystal in, which he was nervous for.

What word might he focus on? He had a couple in his mind...
 
Kylo imagined Hux Junior would be furious to learn of how he was being addressed. Kylo made a mental note to consider using it in the future, if there was ever a moment to talk to Hux when he couldn’t just kill Hux. There probably wouldn’t be, but at least he had something if the opportunity presented itself.

It wasn’t going to be soon.

The First would remain separate, for some time. It would be a slow process to take it back over, but Pryde seemed to think it was possible.

Alsen gestured to another at Ariel’s question, and the woman nodded, “Compared to the First Order, we are a larger force. Our Troopers are made up mostly of clones, most of which are relatively young, but some which have been blooded in excursions in Wild Space and other locations. With last check, our number of Troopers was at nearly 2.5 million.”

Kylo could not hold back his surprised expression. He hadn’t guessed – wouldn’t have guessed – it was in the millions. He didn’t know that Snoke could keep so much, hidden.

“Our officers are notably a smaller portion than the First Order, but with that we’ve done away with much of the frivolity involved in that,” she didn’t offer a number for officers, Kylo noted. “We do have those in the sciences and engineering departments, as you are aware, though the heads of such things are less numerous than those in the First, but I believe that is a result of us being cautious in who we pick and not letting any officer with a rank hold leading position in those departments.”

Again, less officers, more cohesion.

“Our fleets include plenty of Starfighters, destroyers, and capital ships, though our numbers in that regards are more closely aligned to the First, while favoring dreadnaughts to destroyers.” So they had more dreadnaughts than they did destroyers, really, but otherwise the same number of ships.

It was, on the whole, good information. “Are all the clones produced at the Kamino facility?”

“No,” Alsen answered, shaking his head, “There are other facilities. While Kamino could handle the load, we could not risk putting everything in one basket, so to speak. And with Kamino currently under a blockade thanks to Governor Tarkin, it is good that we did not, although this does need to be resolved.”

Sooner, than later, though Alsen would let Pryde make a comment on that.

~***~

Mira observed Finn take apart Ariel’s lightsaber. She didn’t need to help him, it all moved fluidly enough. He would have all the pieces that he needed, between what he’d gathered, and what he could take from Ariel’s blade. She wouldn’t interject. The crafting of a lightsaber was still something terribly personal.

“Blue,” she would at least bet on that. Odds were probably in her favor; blue and green were among the most common colors, with others varying in rarity or not. She still wasn’t sure what traits created other colors, though she had plenty of theories for why her saber was purple, and not green. She’d certainly grown since her years as a padawan…had a different view of the Force, now.

Her eye did go over the parts he laid out, and she nodded, “That should work,” he had all the pieces he would need, “You can always alter it later,” she reminded. When pieces weren’t so scarce. Her own saber was more or less put together by what she had, on the Resistance base. It probably needed an update, too.

The crystal had been the important part.

“Don’t worry, I’ll stay here. I won’t let anything go wrong.” But she wasn’t going to make his lightsaber – just prevent an explosion, or a backfire, if she could see that he had put it together wrong, or if something got out of hand.
 
Ariel wasn’t sure what number she had expected, but it certainly wasn’t a number in the millions. She almost turned to Paquin to ask her how many troopers were in the Order, but assumed there was a difference. The First Order had operated off of stealing babies, so unless they stole every baby they came across, they couldn’t compete with clones. Even if they had to be raised, they could be mass produced. And growth was accelerated.

So what had been the point of stealing babies?

Paquin supposed the numbers should’ve inspired confidence. They were well equipped in comparison to the First Order, but...it made her feel unwell. What else was there that they didn’t know about, that Snoke hid? How could he hide millions of troopers?

Pryde used Alsen’s mention of Kamino’s blockade to transition into discussion of it, “Yes, Kamino is another topic that must be addressed. Since Kamino is not our sole cloning facility, and given Tarkin’s proficiency in naval warfare,” Tarkin actually had someone competent in the position of an Admiral. Two, actually. “There was hesitation regarding action. But unlike the First Order, planned carefully, retaking Kamino could be a swift endeavor.”

The Final Order had the soldiers, but their ships were comparable. Not as expendable as the clones. “While we’re at a disadvantage, it’s a feasible task,” they were not benefited by the First Order’s disorder, as Tarkin was separate. And the blockade was usually at an advantage. But they were capable. “It would be a proficient statement if Kamino was reclaimed so quickly under your command.”

-

Blue. Finn could do blue. He wasn’t really sure what other colors there were, really. Blue, green, red, purple. And he didn’t know what exactly dictated the color it ended up being. “I think I’m going to bet on purple,” why not? His father’s was purple, his mentor’s was purple. It could very well have an influence on what his color would be. Well, no matter. He would just be happy to have a lightsaber of his very own.

Mismatched parts and all.

“I wasn’t worried until you said not to worry,” Finn couldn’t help but mumble, not sure if he was joking with her or not. For now, he was just a bit concerned on if he’d manage. But he wouldn’t let it stop him.

“Alright,” he took a deep breath in, letting his eyes close. They didn’t need to be, but it helped him focus. He thought of his words as he reached out to his crystal, for he couldn’t pick just one. Perhaps it was more of a distraction, but he saw it as himself, well, speaking to the crystal. Telling it what he sought from it. Protection, for it was only natural to want as much from a weapon.

And freedom. Whatever that meant in the context of a lightsaber...maybe in the Force, but it was what he’d always sought. Freedom to be himself, protection for his friends.

He wasn’t sure how long he had to talk to the crystal, but one he felt right, like he was ready, he felt through the Force, for his laid out pieces, and slowly began to piece them together from the inside out. Working around the crystal until there were no pieces left.

It was only once he felt the cool metal set itself gently in his hands that he opened his eyes. He held a lightsaber in his hands! His very own! He scrambled to his feet to give himself some room, for then came the moment of truth, the color.

Both his and Mira’s bets had been wrong, for it was...green! But there was something unique to this green with a yellow tinge to it. The closest thing he could relate it to was...Kylo’s lightsaber. How his was red, but the core of it was more orange.
 
Governor August Tarkin was a different beast than General Hux. Kylo was aware of this. Snoke had never approached Tarkin for an alliance, which may have been a mistake – though he knew that Tarkin had been approached in the past. He wasn’t sure if it was August’s father, or August himself.

They blurred together.

Kylo tended to suffer his mother’s short-sightedness when it came to that name. Even if he had no real reason to hate August Tarkin, he had been brought up with a general dislike of the Tarkin name that was hard to shake.

Kamino, however, was a place they could take. They needed to show they had the strength defend what was actually theirs, didn’t they? Even from the likes of August Tarkin. “It would be good to show our allies we are capable of defending them, and willing to do so,” Kylo said, rising, as he directed, “What is the situation on Kamino? What forces are we looking at right now?”

“Colonel Alsen, would you bring up the latest information from our probe around Kamino?” A man in white spoke.

“Of course, Admiral Galli,” Alsen addressed, and he leaned forward to adjust the holoprojector to bring up that information.

The blockade did look fairly secure. This wasn’t something just thrown together. “Based on our intelligence,” Admiral Galli said, “We have reason to believe that Governor Tarkin may not fight hard to keep Kamino. That does not mean this will be an easy fight, but we should be able to force a retreat with a strong enough offense. It is my suggestion that we send a contingent of destroyers first, along with plentiful single fighters. Enough so that they think it is our main attacking force.”

Too few, and Motti or Tarkin was smart enough to suspect a trick.

“After a few minutes, our dreadnaughts should be prepared for re-entry to realspace, and have their weapons primed. A strike force of at least 50 dreadnaughts at once is likely to both devastate Governor Tarkin’s forces, and send them running.”

“Won’t they recognize these forces about to enter realspace?” Kylo asked.

The Admiral’s smile was pinched, “Yes, of course…when it is too late for them to draw back to a safe distance.”

~***~

‘Did you forget how damaging kyber can be?’ Mira was not soon to forget it. If ever. The scars that were likely to linger, the eye damage, would not soon let her forget how the stone could utterly wreck a person. So, she wasn’t going to let anything happen to Finn if she could stop it, and some anxiety may well be good for him.

He would be careful.

And Mira would be silent, observing as he began the process. She saw the crystal begin to take on a glow, and could tell what it would be – but she didn’t spoil it for Finn by announcing it, as he kept his eyes closed and built the saber around it, aware of when it was time to begin. That instinct. It came naturally to him; he was good at reading the Force. Mira would give him due credit there, and find ways to support that instinct.

Without letting him get too rash. Too trusting. He was already toing the line with Korriban – they were lucky it was just Kevan.

Kevan, who had returned in the midst of this, to watch, because he sensed what Finn was up to. He had found Rollo, but no candy wrappers, or anything to suggest Rollo had a favorite candy. He’d still figure it out, one day.

Still, when Finn showcased the saber, Mira clapped her hands together once in joy and rose, smiling, “Congratulations, Finn!” Of course, she never doubted his ability. Still, she would celebrate the moment – forgetting, a moment, that it wasn’t always good, as the small objects around lifted with her glee.

Kevan chuckled. “Hell yeah, Finn!”
 
It wasn’t a surprise that Kylo was enticed by the reclamation of Kamino agenda. It would make him look good, and Ariel couldn’t find fault with it, other than the anticipated risks of warfare. But it seemed Paquin did, as Ariel watched the girl raise her hand like she was in school. Maybe it was something she had to do when she was a medic, but Ariel gently pulled her hand down.

She was a Knight of Ren, she could speak whenever she wanted.

“I have a question,” Paquin began, unsure if she should preface that she didn’t know anything about coordinating attacks, especially not the navy. She couldn’t even fly a ship herself, really. But would that make her look bad? Or Kylo?

“Of course,” it was Alsen that encouraged her to go on.

“You say that Governor Tarkin won’t fight very hard for it, but now that he and General Hux are allies, what if General Hux wants it? And sends his own fleet?” Combined forces and all. She wasn’t sure if it was something that Hux might want. But she thought he was spiteful and he didn’t like Kylo. Or perhaps he’d want a cloning facility of his own, since he couldn’t very well supply his armies quickly by taking children.

Admiral Galli answered her and it was clear that he simplified it for her sake, “We have the advantage of surprise. The First Order will be scrambling to put their forces together, in which they lack guidance. By the time he can arrive, Tarkin’s forces will be fleeing. He wouldn’t risk his own fleet for Hux’s sake. Any further questions?” Paquin shook her head. None from her.

“After this experience, it might be beneficial to better equip our facilities to handle situations like this,” Pryde mentioned. Whether it be on-planet weaponry, ships, or supplies. It would have to be determined, with budget involved, too.

-

Finn was ecstatic. He wanted to twirl this interesting new saber around, wanted to run through the halls of the base to show his friends his new accessory. Of course, much as he loved his own room, it wasn’t big enough for him to be doing any tricks in. Nor could he exactly run around the base, given how late it was. So he would be content with his miniature celebration with Mira.

Especially because he got a smile out of her, and he would consider that an accomplishment. It was nice to not see Mira so serious, and to see her smile after the events that recently transpired.

Of course he noticed the little objects lifting from their places in response to her glee, but he didn’t dare comment on them. He didn’t want to spoil the moment, not for something so harmless. Even if he knew it was a part of a bigger issue. That didn’t mean she shouldn’t be allowed a bit of joy, and she wasn’t even at risk of hurting anyone.

“I can’t wait to show Rey and Poe! My mom!” Though he knew that would have to wait until morning for most, and his mom he wasn’t certain about. Finn didn’t dwell, though, and he did chuckle when Kevan piped in with his ‘hell yeah’. “Thanks for the support, Kevan.” Again how he wished for Mira to be able to participate in the conversation, but alas.

He did let his attention to her, letting his lightsaber shut off for the moment. Whether she wanted a hug or not wasn’t even a question, for he reached out and wrapped his arms around her. Tight as he could while still remaining conscious of the fact that she was still a bit fragile, didn’t want to mess up her face wound or throw her off balance. “And thank you, Mira,” most of all, “I couldn’t have done this without you.”

She was a great teacher, for him, at least, and he wondered if anyone else would be able to experience her one day. If she would have her own school.
 
What Kylo heard thus far was appealing, except that it was relying on Governor Tarkin to flee. It was anticipating a reaction that Kylo didn’t honestly think they could guarantee. He wanted to believe it, he wanted to push forward with it, but he also did not wish to waste troops and ships on something that could go south.

“Do we have a contingency plan in case Governor Tarkin doesn’t flee?” Perhaps, also, in case Hux joined the battle as support. “In case Admiral Motti stays to fight?”

“Obliterate them,” Galli stated simply, “We will easily outnumber him once we arrive, and our first wave of dreadnaught fire ought to eliminate anywhere from a third to a half of his ship. Governor Tarkin has not placed his entire fleet on Kamino. The vast majority of it still remains within the Seswenna Sector.”

And there, under the command of General Adeline and Johann Tarkin, rather than August himself. That was a matter for consideration, but not right now. Reclamation was more important than taking, at the moment. They could move to take, once they were secure.

Kylo nodded, slowly, “Very well. Then I approve the move to retake Kamino, and I would like to also consider better equipping our facilities.”

Alsen shot a glance to Pryde, but said nothing. He wanted to ask about how this was going to cause them to lose much of their surprise in the future, and reveal themselves significantly, but he supposed it was time for that to happen, anyways.

“When we secure our alliances at the meeting, we should be able to secure further resources,” from what he understood, some of their allies were corporations they wanted to take away from the First Order and secure as their own.

“Yes, that is correct,” Alsen agreed, “the conversation about what we can do would be better held after we know what we truly have.”

~***~

Finn’s excitement was easily felt through the Force. It was contagious in a way, and Mira was glad to feel that sort of joy flowing through him. It also made it easier to tune out her own, and what it was doing, because her focus was on him. “Soon, soon,” Mira reassured. He would get to show it off all tomorrow. To Rey, to Poe – and perhaps his mother, soon. Maybe not tomorrow, “We could send your mom a picture?” Mira suggested.

It wouldn’t be quite as epic, but it would still show her fairly quickly what her son had accomplished.

She caught his comment to Kevan, but wouldn’t react to it.

At least he had Kevan on his side.

And then suddenly she was in a hug. It took her a second to even consider returning it, nevermind it nearly knocked the breath out of her, but eventually, she did wrap an arm around Finn. “Oh, Finn. You could have.” With Rey, probably, as his teacher, once they realized what Finn was capable of. “But I’m happy to help you…and get you through it quicker.”

She’d lightly push away from Finn, to break the embrace, “Now, do you want to pose for a cool picture for your mom?” Then she would probably go to sleep. She needed it, for tomorrow. It was going to be an…interesting day. That much was certain. There was much to do professionally, but it also seemed there was going to be just as much personal.

At least, personal for Hux.

He had his mother back in his life now, too.

At least that was one problem Mira wasn’t going to have to worry about – her mother wouldn’t be popping up again anytime soon.
 
Pryde didn’t miss Alsen’s look, or the unspoken question behind it. He knew their element of surprise would be lost, but they’d been laying in the shadows for long enough. If they were to assume control of the galaxy, they couldn’t stay hidden forever. Especially since Kylo Ren seemed eager to act. How could they win a war if they didn’t exist in the minds of others?

“For now, what we do have the capability to do is retake Kamino. Admiral Galli will have that organized once we depart and we will have to gather once again after we secure our allies to discuss how to proceed. In the meantime, I might suggest reviewing some of the planets of note that might be worth expanding towards.” Planets housing Resistance or Order bases. Tarkin’s sector. Planets with valuable resources that can be taken.

“Of course, all files are accessible to you, in addition to any one of us being available to answer any questions you might have,” Pryde continued. “I also must inform you that as we advance, our ability to live in secrecy diminishes. We’ll have to consider how to present ourselves to others, to the galaxy.”

“What, like propaganda?” Ariel asked.

“Yes, things of that nature, and beyond that. It’ll only be a matter of time before there will have to be a face of the Final Order. Someone to make statements, someone that people will want to see. Already those we’ll be seeing shortly are anxious to size up the Final Order’s new leader.” Snoke had his own presence. He sent people. He had people come to him in his display of regality with his robes and guards. He projected himself larger than he was. All to send a message.

To incite fear. Institute their power.

-

Finn could only shake his head as Mira tried to deny the credit he gave her. Maybe, eventually, he would have gotten to this point. But how long would that have been without Mira? If ever? No, she was the teacher for him. He was certain there had to be some sort of fate behind it, just like he was sure he was supposed to meet Poe, meet Rey. But, he didn’t say any of that at the moment.

He pulled away from her when she pushed, laughing a little. Mira either was not too familiar with hugs or she didn’t like them. But, well, Finn certainly hoped to change that. Either one. He’d gotten so few in his life, and yet they came so natural to him. They were nice! He’d get Mira to like them too.

“Yeah, yeah,” he agreed to the picture, turning to get his datapad, “Great idea, by the way, the picture,” as if it were some revolutionary thing. But still, he hadn’t thought of it. And sure, it wasn’t quite as cool as being able to show her in person, but he didn’t know when he’d next be able to see her. Soon, he hoped, of course, but he knew Ada would be just as excited over a picture.

It was a nice feeling, having a mom that was supportive. Or just having a mom in general.

Finn handed off his datapad to Mira, igniting his lightsaber again to strike a pose with it. Obviously he attempted to make himself look as cool as he could in his little room, but he couldn’t be serious for that long. He just hoped Mira had taken the picture before he laughed at himself and relaxed, letting his lightsaber turn off again. He’d have more time to mess with it in the morning, but for the moment…

“Hey, thanks again, Mira. I think I’m gonna go shower before it gets too late. And that’s not an invitation to follow me, Kevan. Boundaries.” He joked. Mostly. “I promise I’ll be quiet coming back. Unless you want me to bring you back anything?”
 
Kylo would review the planets. He wasn’t sure what the Final Order, in particular, was lacking – or needing, but he might find that in review of the planets, based on why they were indicated as targets, above other possibilities. He could also ask – that was becoming obvious. These individuals were…fairly aware of what they had, and what they could do.

They were prepared to act.

They already had these files made. ‘They don’t need you.’ That sense fell on Kylo, but he dismissed it, hearing Pryde talk of needing a face for the Final Order that others would want to see. Obviously, he meant him.

It was Gnaeus who questioned if that was what Pryde was referring to, seeing as he didn’t explicitly state it…but he did, explicitly, state that the Supreme Leader would need to be sized up by their allies.

“It will be a different kind of leadership than Snoke,” Kylo said. Intimidation would ever be a part of it, but he wasn’t content to be just a mere puppet-master as Snoke had been. “As I’m sure you’re all, already, seeing. I’ll leave the nuances of propaganda to you all,” he had no tact for it, and he knew this simply from the First Order.

Propaganda and subtlety were not his skills. He didn’t like lying to get people on board, or presenting a false image, but he knew not everyone was convinced with truth of what was good for them. Good for the galaxy. “When will the mission to deal with Kamino be underway? I need time to prepare.”

Galli blinked, a bit startled, before he said, “Supreme Leader, I mean no disrespect, but this mission does not require your personal oversight. I am aware of how good a pilot you are,” or at least, he’d heard things speaking of Kylo’s enjoyment of flying, anyways, “but there are more important matters for you to handle while Kamino is cleaned up.”

From the look on Kylo’s face, that was not the right way to go about talking him out of this.

~***~

Mira took the datapad to take the picture of Finn as he attempted to look like a badass in his room with a lightsaber. There was something terribly amusing about it, but Mira held off on laughing until Finn broke – and snapped another picture of him laughing, as well. She’d send both to Ada with no message, before offering the datapad back to Finn. Her own laughter was subsiding.

“I would never!” Kevan declared when Finn told him it wasn’t an invitation. “I only go into showers with other people when invited.” Which was true, though he still spoke with some teasing in his tone. He knew he didn’t come off as being the most respectful of boundaries. And he pushed some. Always would. But there were some things he considered ‘hard limits’ all around, and spying on someone in that capacity was on the list.

So he’d stay with the person who couldn’t hear him.

For now.

Mira just shook her head, “No, I don’t need anything. I’m going to try to sleep.” How successful she’d be was debatable, but at least she’d try. She needed to be somewhat prepared for tomorrow, and all that it was going to bring. It was already turning into something bizarre with Hux’s news, and the question of whether or not Mace would visit.
 
This was all strange to Paquin, and she wondered if it was to the others. To Ariel, to Gnaeus. Did this come naturally to Kylo? And now what, would they be seeing Kylo’s face plastered around the galaxy to spread lies? To recruit teenagers, just like Hux’s face was?

Her attention snapped back to Kylo, just as Ariel’s did, when he spoke of needing to prepare. Of course, Paquin was concerned with something entirely different than Ariel. He didn’t have to go, if it was really as simple as Galli made it out to be. Why would he put himself in danger if he didn’t have to? Not to mention, well, Paquin was nervous about if she might have to fly. “Kylo…,” Paquin whispered, unsure how to disapprove.

At the same time, though, she supposed she didn’t have any right to.

Ariel, of course, had a hot date tonight. Well...it wasn’t a date yet. But it would be once she prepared for it and wooed him. She couldn’t miss that for some cloning facility that they didn’t need to oversee.

Galli sighed, “If you insist. Organizing it will only take a few hours, setting it into motion can be postponed further if need be, to accommodate. Once we’re ready to act I can contact you and we can proceed from there,” he offered. “A ship can be prepared for you. For your Knights, as well.” Perhaps Ren would become occupied by something else.

Ariel had to suppress a groan with a sip of her juice, which she was almost out of. They’d have a chance to talk to Kylo about this later, it seemed. Perhaps it was to dodge the subject, but Paquin did ask. “In the meantime, are there any updates on Snoke’s artifacts?” Maybe Kylo could find interest in those.

-

“I don’t need to hear about any of that, Kevan.” Finn was quick to dismiss, though he did wonder if Kevan had been invited into showers often or if that was a joke. He couldn’t really tell. “But, thanks for respecting the boundaries.” It wasn’t that Finn thought Kevan was creepy. Just that he probably did have a tendency to push things a bit far.

Mira didn’t want anything, and she spoke of getting some sleep. That was a good idea. “Okay, good luck. And hey,” Finn reached out to touch her shoulder. “Snoke’s gone. You’re head’s safe from him now. I can’t promise sleep will be good now, but don’t be afraid of it,” she’d start sleeping well, hopefully not having dreams. Or nice ones. “Kevan’s hanging around. Tomorrow will be exciting.”

Things were looking up, a bit. Sure, Kylo was their biggest problem and he wasn’t an easy one. And he’d hurt Mira, Leia, all of them. But there was still room for hope elsewhere. This meeting would change a lot.

“If you’re asleep when I get back, I hope you sleep good, Mira. I’ll see you in the morning.” He gave a squeeze to her shoulder before he’d leave for his shower.

And that morning would come soon, given how late it had become by the time they’d settled into bed.


Though, some hadn’t settled into bed. Hux had fallen asleep on his couch at some point, fully clothed and datapad in hand with Millicent snuggled up to him. It couldn’t have been more than a couple hours by the time his alarm was set off, but it was probably more sleep than Hux got on most nights.

Even if it was on his couch.

He didn’t want to disturb Millicent to get up, but he had to get ready for the day. Drink too much bitter coffee that he wasn’t sure was even effective at that point. Shower and somehow prepare his thoughts for the day. For his mother and to finish the notes he’d been working on for the meeting. It was a lot at once, and getting to speak with Mira before all of it would hopefully help.
 
Kylo Ren shot a glance towards Paquin as she spoke up, albeit only a whisper. Her disdain for the idea was apparent, but it went no further than that. Galli spoke up again, conceding to Kylo’s whim, even willing to wait if it was necessary. “No, I will be ready when you are,” what else did have to do?

Well, read some notes on planets, apparently, and probably read up on the allies they were meeting, but he could do that while Galli prepared, and while they were in lightspeed towards Kamino. Then he’d be able to help make sure they actually won the battle. He just hoped the Final Order had something like his old TIE Silencer.

“I only need a TIE, preferably of the Silencer model, but I understand if your facilities don’t have those.”

Galli smirked, but it held disdain, “We do.”

“I’m not flying,” Gnaeus said. He could, probably, with just one hand and one false hand, but he wasn’t risking that. “I’m sure I can find…something to do around here.” Particularly if there was any progress with the artifacts.

Alsen answered that easily enough, “We are still bringing them all in,” he said, “It takes a while to get them all gathered and brought here, but we are working on it. We expect some to arrive later today.”

“I’ll work on that,” Gnaeus offered, since he was already excusing himself from flight duty, “Unless you have any issues, Kylo?”

“No,” he wouldn’t want Gnaeus flying, either. “That is a better use of your time than standing on some Bridge.”

~***~

Mira suspected she would wonder, until the end of her days, how she ever deserved to know Finn. He tried to reassure her about Snoke, and she forced a smile to her lips. Sleeping, with any sense of peace, would take a while…if it ever happened. Mira wouldn’t be surprised if her remaining days, be it a week, or fifty years, were full of nightmares and restlessness. It was what she deserved.

But she wouldn’t say that. She’d just give Finn that smile, and, “I’ll try. Good night, Finn.” And as he left, she’d clear away the area around the cot, and settle the various items aside, retaining some semblance of order. Those holocrons they had opened would be set apart from the others. ‘He’s still here.’

Mira knew she couldn’t hear him, “I don’t suppose you sleep.” He didn’t have a kyber to flash simple answers through. “You should rest, though. You deserve that,” to go on, if he wanted to.

Kevan could offer no response, and he didn’t even try. Sometimes, his former master could be so morose. At least she tended to find optimists.

And Mira would turn in, and be asleep before Finn returned. There’d be no tossing and turning, no dreams that she recalled, and yet when her own alarm went off, she still awoke with a certain feeling of dread that she couldn’t shake, something on the edge of recollection, which faded with each passing second of wakefulness.

But the attempt to open her eyes removed all thoughts of dwelling on it. One eye opened. The other did, and Mira was briefly stricken with panic – until her hand fell upon her face, and she recalled the eyepatch. And why she was wearing it. She groaned and turned over on the cot to shut up the alarm, and get up for the day.

The recollection of a strange laugh was already forgotten as she went to find her uniform so she could get ready, uncertain of a need to stay quiet…but attempting it nonetheless. If Hux was going to arrive early, she had to be ready sooner.
 
“Maybe I should stay with Gnaeus, work on the artifacts with him,” Paquin suggested. She wasn’t good at flying. It didn’t matter what, she had just never been able to handle vehicles. It made her stomach knot at the thought of doing it in the context of war. Arguably, she should have learned, but she didn’t think during a battle with Tarkin’s forces would be the place to do it.

Of course, Ariel had to glare at her. If Paquin was bailing out, too, that meant Ariel couldn’t pile on her own excuse. She’d have to drink, heavily, before they left. Sure, that might be the opposite of what anyone was supposed to do. But Ariel knew how to fly drunk, well, too. It helped, and it helped blur the feeling of the lack of Force in space. And really, she just wanted it.

“Work it amongst yourselves, please, and let me know if there’s anything additional that I need to prepare,” Admiral Galli said, and Paquin felt like he was irritated, but concealing it.

“If everything is to your satisfaction for the moment, Supreme Leader, I believe it best to dismiss Admiral Galli and our officers here so they can attend to preparations,” Pryde spoke, perhaps more to correct Admiral Galli’s behavior. “Alsen and I, of course, are available if there’s any other subjects you are concerned with.” They were both knowledgeable in much.

Of course they were. “You have all been rather accommodating,” and Ariel wondered why. No one was this compliant. Not unless they wanted something. Perhaps some sort of appreciation should have followed her statement, but it didn't come.

-

Hux was not a man of many meals, so of course he skipped breakfast. He seemed to do just fine without the most important meal of the day. He did feed Millicent, though, just a bit. He wasn’t concerned about overfeeding her for the moment, as she’d been terribly thin when he’d found her. He was making quick work to change that, though.

He didn’t think he’d ever be able to make sense of his own decision to care for some desert cat.

He just knew he was content with it, as he loaded her into her carrier. Yes, he was taking her for a multitude of reasons. She had a calming presence and she’d be happy to see Mira and run in some grass. Not to mention, they needed to return the flower that the ginger cat had stolen the day before.

The General intended to travel on his own, ahead of Phasma and the few Stormtroopers she’d likely bring along and eventually his mother. Perhaps it was inefficient, but he wanted it this way. It would give him more time and it was more subtle. Because clearly no one could mind their own business, if the part at Tarkin’s had been any example. Ignoring the kidnapping.

He did stop by the canteen to get a portable cup of coffee for his solo adventure. He sent a message to Phasma to inform him of his plan right before he sent a message to Mira telling him he was on his way to the planet, wondering if he was waking her up. He knew that was...more miss than hit. Of course, the void stone felt heavy in his pocket. She’d have it soon.
 
Kylo felt some irritation with Galli’s response, but he wouldn’t argue with him right there. They could sort the matter out amongst themselves, and Galli did have better things to do, as well. He took Pryde’s suggestion, “You are dismissed, Admiral,” he said, “You can go ahead and begin the preparations. Everyone else except for Allegiant General Pryde and Alsen are dismissed.”

There was a brief shuffling of chairs, as people rose and moved out, to get on their way. Though it was the Admiral’s job, Kylo noted how the General linked up with them immediately to begin discussing troop allocations in the event of ground combat, and suggested leadership for that endeavor.

He caught just a bit of it – enough to understand they were familiar with working together, and working efficiently.

This was still terribly new, and terribly overwhelming, and Kylo for a moment felt a pang of self-loathing as he realized who he’d kept in the room. Who he was making it obvious, that he listened to, right then. They wouldn’t interpret it any other way, would they – that he was giving the commands and Pryde was listening to him?

No – although it seemed likely that Pryde would, in fact, listen to any command.

“If you’re intent to stay behind, Paquin, you may be better suited to going over the planets that Pryde has indicated we need to look at, once I narrow the list down myself,” to finalize things, “You can work with Colonel Alsen to consider supplies and strategic necessities of each planet,” he said.

She could work near Gnaeus, but keeping Gnaeus with the artifacts was a better idea. “I would like this list sent to me, and I do want to know what we are most lacking, or most likely to run out of, in the near future, assuming our endeavors remain on the offensive.” That was spoken to Colonel Alsen and Pryde.

“I will forward you the list immediately,” Alsen said, drawing out his datapad to do that, “With regards to needs, it is not anything unusual. Kyber and fuel are the resources we are most likely to run out of.”

~***~

Thankfully, Mira was able to tip-toe around Finn and not disturb him. He seemed to sleep deeply enough, though she hoped he wouldn’t be upset that she let him sleep longer. She pulled herself together as best she could, and went to find caf. She probably didn’t need it, but stars knew she wanted it. Something to hold on to, so she didn’t fiddle with the string of her eyepatch.

She also opted to make a stop into the medbay, just to see if there was anything to be done, yet.

Of course not. Not yet. It was too early, and they wanted the treatment to have time to work. Well, they did offer her some pills which were supposed to also help with potential infection. She took them with her caf.

Hux’s message arrived once she was debating if she ought to go back to the room and wait. Hanging around in public, Resistance space, was still odd. Should she find Leia? Would it be wrong to find Leia?

Hux’s message was answer enough to go wait in a hangar and hope she didn’t disturb a certain flyboy. She responded quickly enough, indicating that she was up and would be waiting. Hopefully in the hangar he was able to land in.

She tried not to think about fussing with her hair. She still needed to get it fixed, but for now, she was able to mask the damage in a braided updo. The one advantage of knowing how to braid, she supposed.

And the hangar was fairly empty when she arrived.

Quiet.

It was almost peaceful. The base seemed to still be asleep, although Mira doubted that Leia was. She could still sense Leia too easily.
 
Paquin frowned when Kylo tasked her to go over this list of planets. She wanted to work with Gnaeus the artifacts, but she supposed she didn’t know much about whatever was there. Though, she also didn’t really know much about...strategically deciding which planet they’d assault next. She supposed that was what Alsen would help her with. So she didn’t object to it, much as it made her feel...off. “Okay,” she mumbled an agreement, sparing a glance at Colonel Alsen.

She supposed she didn’t feel any particular way about him. He was a bit eager, but she didn’t hate him like Ariel seemed to. At least he was helpful. And this would be better than flying.

Though, Ariel was glad she didn’t have to work with Alsen, and would probably mess with Paquin about it later.

“Is that what we’ll be looking for, then? Kyber and fuel?” Paquin asked.

“That’ll be a consideration. Once Supreme Leader Ren reviews the planet list and narrows it down, I can take you through it and we can look at what each planet has to offer us. You’ll come to understand it quickly, I’m sure.” Alsen assured.

Paquin could only nod and manage an agreeable smile, for she didn’t like how Alsen phrased it. These planets weren’t offering them anything.

“After we secure our alliances we’ll better be able to know what we must look for,” Pryde spoke. “Of course, I don’t anticipate many, if any, losses. But shifts in power always cause unpredictability and Snoke’s alliances have been loyal. But I can’t see why they wouldn’t be loyal to his successor as well.”

-

Hux preferred mornings. He wouldn’t say he was a morning person or any type of day person, but he did enjoy mornings. Things were always hectic, but the mornings less so. Especially so on the little planet the Resistance was based on. And he would say the planet was much more pleasing on the eyes than the vacuum of space. The sunrise, the greenery.

‘Mira,’ Hux took notice of her once he’d been given clearance to land in the hangar. He hoped she hadn’t been waiting there long, but he was also glad he wouldn’t have to search around this base to find her.

He settled the ship in an empty spot, clicking his tongue to get Millicent’s attention as he opened her carrier, adjusting the flower in her collar. He’d put it on before they left and it had lost a petal or two on the journey there. His fault for trusting a cat with it. He let Millicent file out of it, moving to the exit behind her. It was interesting to watch the cat walk out like she knew what she was doing. Like she owned the place.

Which, Millicent did seem to know where she was going.

“You haven’t been out here long, have you?” Hux questioned as he followed the cat’s trot over to Mira. Millicent was quick to force herself against Mira’s leg. Hux couldn’t help but think Millicent’s little orange hairs would stand out against her uniform.

His eyes did do a run over her, to check on her. As if anything would have changed from the last time he’d seen her. Well, she was standing. That was good. “Good morning,” he thought to add.
 
Kylo could sense that Paquin wasn’t pleased with his request. He hoped he could make her feel a bit better about it, after the meeting. It wasn’t intentionally sidelining her. This was certainly a task that needed done, and Ariel and Gnaeus already had knowledge to deal with artifacts. None of them, really, had much briefing in actually leading and managing armies in a war on this scale.

Kylo hadn’t been groomed for that.

He needed someone in his corner to help him with understanding it all. Someone he could trust to want was best. He felt that was more likely to be Paquin. Plus, her work in the First Order, while not tied to the war effort directly, likely showed her something. Right?

He’d find out.

“Who do you suspect is most likely to leave us?” Kylo inquired of Pryde, “Given you do not expect any, you nonetheless seem to think we may lose someone.”

Alsen would not speak to that, although he had some idea of who might be on Pryde’s mind. Sienar Fleet was questionable, now that Hux was aware of their ‘secret’ side of Sienar-Jaemus, and they were rather mercenary. If the Tagges weighed in and tried to force them to shut down their illegal operations, that could spell an end to the alliance as they knew it. Or at least, severely complicate it.

Much of the others weren’t so mercenary, and had actual belief in what the Final Order stood for. They just had to convince them their needs were better served here, and not with the First Order.

~***~

Hux’s ship was obvious, the nature of the First Order compared to the Resistance apparent in design. Mira did straighten a bit as the ramp fell to the floor, and out trotted Millicent, with the flower again. She was glad to see the cat with that bit of ornamentation, and knelt to stroke her fur when she came over and brushed against her leg, looking up at Hux after a moment, “No, not long,” she said.

Not that she had anything else to do.

The presence of the stone was more than welcome in the moment, sapping the Force out of the area, and so having that effect of helping Mira relax with the knowledge that she wasn’t going to accidentally destroy anything. “Good morning,” she returned, rising, “You have a lot to tell me,” she reminded. “Do you want to talk here, or elsewhere?”

She was willing to join him back in his ship if he wanted to prevent too much rumor from spreading, or just go to a quieter area near the base, rather than within it. She doubted he really wanted to stay in a hangar, at any rate.

He certainly didn’t need people hearing about his mother just yet.
 
Pryde expanded “Well, there are a handful of companies that see our alliances as nothing more than a means to make credits. Those, I suspect, are the most likely to drop our agreements. Especially those that operate outside of legality. General Hux as well as the Resistance have those law enforcing connections that we don’t quite possess.” Which was something to be worked on, too.

“Given the choice between continuing operations or facing legal repercussions, the choice is clear. Or given a chance to engage in production for both the First Order and the FInal Order, which would cause severe complications. Sienar Systems in particular is what I had in mind. The main supplier of our ships, partly our arms, as well.” Pryde elaborated.

Alsen offered his own input, “We must also consider those who were committed to Snoke specifically. Not just his goals for the galaxy,” but who, what he was.

“Yes,” Pryde agreed. “During the meeting, we’ll need to make an effort to assure each of them that we’ll provide what they’re after. Stability, and that as the new Supreme Leader, you will fulfill Snoke’s role. But apart from that, many of our other allies are firm in their beliefs. They’ll be assured well enough by your appearance.”

“You should have all the lists necessary to look over them,” Alsen said, setting his datapad down. “I did include highlighted lists of planets that might be more useful than others, and a list of materials we source.” He trusted that much will be relayed to Paquin, as well.

-

“Why don’t we walk? Find someplace quiet,” Hux suggested. There weren’t many people around, and it wasn’t very cold out. “Millicent likes the grass.” They didn’t have it on the Finalizer. Of course, Hux hadn’t considered how Mira’s coordination was until after he’d suggested it. But she’d made it this far, hadn’t she? And he’d be there to help stabilize her, if she needed it.

Keep her from running into things.

The General inhaled and then breathed out a sigh. “Where do I begin?” He couldn’t just say his mom showed up and told him some things. She’d made a grand entrance. “I suppose I should start with her sneaking onto a shuttle and showing up in the hangar wielding a knife. Wasn’t sure what she thought she’d accomplish with that method,” It had been amusing, nonetheless, and it had caught his attention.

If it had just been a report of a stowaway he likely wouldn’t have investigated himself. Just have her imprisoned and interrogated. Perhaps killed if need be. But thankfully he hadn’t done that.

“She wanted to kill Brendol, of course, but she could’ve gone about it differently.” Not that he was going to give anyone suggestions on that topic. “I did let her speak with him, that’s how I confirmed she was my mother. Though, looking at her could have been confirmation enough.” He looked more like her than he did Brendol.

“She did...give me up, in a way. But I attribute that more to Brendol’s manipulation. She was–is–a kitchen worker. For the Sindians. But she worked for them when I was born, and after when the Empire fell. Brendol convinced her I wouldn’t be safe. That he’d take care of me. I can’t fault her.” She thought she was doing what was best for him. What could a kitchen worker do for the son of an Imperial? If anyone ever would have come for him, that is.
 
‘Sienar-Jaemus.’ It also sprang to mind to Kylo when Pryde mentioned credits, before he singled out Sienar Fleets alone. Of course, Sienar-Jaemus was their ‘illegal’ company. Yes, he could see how the organizations such as that would be the weak link in all of this. Even with Hosnian Prime destroyed, they hadn’t truly gotten rid of the legislating body of the galaxy. They weren’t the ones crafting laws.

There were also those loyal to Snoke. That caused Kylo to cant his head. He might have a difficult time with those. More than the mercenaries. The mercenaries wanted credits, and some guarantees of protections. Taking back Kamino would show they were willing enough to defend those who swore to them.

Then they’d just have to be convincing that they were stronger than the others. A better investment.

He had lists upon lists to go over, it seemed. He could ask questions all day, but it would likely be to his benefit to actually learn what he was asking questions about, first. That meant reviewing the lists. “Very well. We…appreciate the organization and information you’ve provided. I will start to go over these lists while Admiral Galli prepares.”

That was some time to start the process, wasn’t it?

“You two are dismissed.” Though Kylo would be leaving the area, he figured he should let them know that he was done with them, too.

~***~

Outside was better than inside. Outside was less walls and things to walk into, so she led the way out, Millicent following. Hux began his story. His mother had made quite the entrance indeed, and Mira raised her brows. At least she still had both brows. ‘I don’t blame her.’ Mira, also, wanted to kill Brendol. She was disappointed that this woman didn’t succeed, but she supposed she’d just have to fix that.

Hux only said her method was bad.

He had also gotten information on how he came to be where he was. How his mother left his life – and she had chosen to. The situation was not ideal for her, and from the sounds of it, Hux did believe that his father had manipulated her into it. “I suppose it is good to finally have closure on that matter…and to know that she still cares for you, it seems.” And hated Brendol.

Hux hadn’t said that the woman cared for him explicitly, but it was easy enough to read between the lines. Her wanting to kill Brendol likely came from some residual affection towards her son, even if she hadn’t been able to provide for him. Even after all she must have known, he did. “You do not think she means you any harm?”

Mira knew it may be rude to ask it bluntly, but as Roisin – unknown to Mira – held suspicions on Mira, the Admiral had her suspicions about a strange woman showing up and seeming to make herself known out of the blue as Hux’s mother. Not that she painted herself in the most flattering light, given her arrival, and her story.
 
“Of course. If you have any further questions or if there’s anything else we can do for you, you know how to contact us,” Pryde spoke, rising with his words. “If we do not encounter each other before you depart for your mission, I wish you much success.” With that, he’d lead Alsen out of the room.

Though, Alsen did stop to speak to Paquin. “When you’re ready to meet to go over the refined list, let me know. I’ll bring some notes to help you along, and reserve a space near Knight Gnaeus if need be.”

Paquin nodded, “Okay, I will. Thank you, Colonel Alsen.”

Alsen nodded in return before following after Pryde. Ariel waited until they were both out of the room before she complained. “I can’t stand you, Kylo. Thwarting my lovemaking expeditions at every turn. All for a mission that we don’t even need to go on.” She took her empty bottle of juice. “I’m going to shower. And find something stronger than fruit juice to drink.”

“She’s right, Kylo,” Paquin added, frowning. “Not about the lovemaking part, but about the mission. You don’t have to go, Galli said so himself. You’re just putting yourself in danger that you don’t need to be in. So why go? What can be so important there than anything here? There’s plenty to do…” If it somehow wasn’t obvious, Paquin didn’t want him to go. He didn’t have to.

But she knew she couldn’t ask it of him. She wouldn’t. She’d let him make his own decision, but that didn’t mean she wouldn’t try to persuade him otherwise.

-

“I do suppose it’s nice to not have to wonder anymore,” perhaps it would’ve been easier if all he had to do was wonder. Much as he was actually pleased with the situation, well, it was another relationship he had to deal with. Another relationship he had to navigate. And perhaps conceal, for a time. Or forever, if it was what he had to do to keep Roisin safe.

And he supposed Roisin did care for him, too. Which was strange to think about.

Hux did huff a laugh, smiling a bit at Mira’s suspicion. If only because he found it amusing that both women were suspicious of each other. He hoped that wouldn’t be a recurring problem, of course, and that it would be resolved once they met each other. Which reminded him, he’d have to message Roisin and give her an estimated timeframe of when they’d likely meet with each other. He’d have a better idea soon, hopefully, once people started arriving and preparing.

He took no offense to her question, anyhow. “I thought of that. None of her actions suggested she has any ill-will. Well, not towards anyone except my father. She didn’t even think she’d meet me. She showed me pictures of her family. That’s not the sort of thing you show someone you’re looking to screw over in some way,” in case things ever went wrong. “Apparently I have a big family, by the way. And a red twi’lek sister.” Who would’ve thought?

He waved that away. “Besides. Millicent liked her.” He’d trust Millicent’s perception. Animals were good at that sort of thing, weren’t they?
 
Alsen and Pryde left them, more encouraging words following before they cleared the room. Almost immediately, Ariel exploded. Given, it was mostly just a complaint with no real anger behind it; the humor was there, after all. Still, Kylo sighed as Paquin joined in on Ariel’s side.

“Ariel, we will be back in time for you to return to Gideon, this shouldn’t take long,” not with how Galli outlined it, and he knew he could help make short work of this by being in a ship. “And all there is to do here, is read up on planets, resources, and allies. I need to break that up or I’ll go insane.”

He didn’t enjoy the reading up on things. He understood the necessity of it, and so he would begin the process, but doing this for several hours straight? No. “Besides, I don’t intend to gain a reputation like Snoke of staying back and doing nothing. I want people to know that I will handle things.” Personally.

He wanted it to inspire them.

He also wanted it to scare them. To know if they messed up, they wouldn’t be dealing with Stormtroopers – they’d be dealing with him.

Gnaeus sighed, “So you’re shoving the grunt work off onto Paquin?”

“No!” Kylo said, defensive immediately, “I can’t be the only Knight who understands this. You and Ariel already understand the artifacts…I don’t want to go to Alsen or Pryde every time I have a question about a planet, or an official.” He wanted Paquin to be someone he could discuss this with, long before he got to them.

~***~

Although it was probably terrible to think it, given their positions in the world, neither of them could afford to be willfully ignorant of the fact people would want to hurt or kill them. Even, potentially, this mother. The thought hadn’t been far from Hux’s mind, but the woman had gone ahead and shown him much of her life – of her family, that he could use to retaliate if she ever tried, and failed.

She hadn’t even shown up to see her son.

Mira didn’t hide her surprise at the indication of a twi’lek sister, as they stepped outside, and Millicent trotted ahead, only to start to roll over and over in one spot of grass, “Like…biologically, or adopted?” It was possible, she knew humans and twi’leks could interbreed, but this was still bizarre to her.

Somehow, she couldn’t imagine a twi’lek would have a terribly good opinion of Hux, in either case.

She also remembered there was a twi’lek friend of Kevan’s who had wanted to talk to her. She might owe them an apology…and a meeting, very soon.

“What is your mother’s name?” Mira couldn’t exactly call her ‘mom’ or ‘Hux’s mom’ forever. She did pause in walking to let Millicent enjoy her rolling around, since she wasn’t following after them any longer.
 
It wasn’t that Ariel was really upset about the situation, or Gideon. She just didn’t want to go. But she couldn’t let Kylo go on his own, not with a previously unknown military force. Didn’t mean she couldn’t make things difficult. “Well then shouldn’t you just learn it yourself? So you don’t have to go through a secondary source?” Ariel asked, though she wasn’t sure she’d get an answer after Paquin started talking.

“I understand, Kylo. It’s just...not something I know anything about and it’s...I’m not overly keen on being the middleman between you and whatever planet gets attacked or harassed for resources or…,” Paquin sighed, running a hand over her face. None of it mattered, really, did it? Someone would do it if she didn’t. The First Order wasn’t innocent in it, either, but..

She’d never been tasked with planning it. The most she’d ever done was keep track of the troopers or provide medical aid. She’d still been complicit. ‘Now’s not the time, Paquin.’ It wasn’t the time to question herself or what she'd been accomplice to in the past. She was already uncertain enough as it was.

If it would help Kylo. She shook her head, it was easier to just agree, “Nevermind. It’s fine, I’ll do it,” even if it was the grunt work, as Gnaeus put it. That wasn’t what she cared about. Paquin picked up her empty cup of coffee. “Just let me know when you’ve finished going over the lists. I’m going to go back to my room.” And do what she wasn’t sure. Nap, maybe. Sit and overthink. Buy decorations. Nothing productive, apparently.

“Oh, drama. Love that. Every relationship needs a little spice,” Ariel shimmied, following Paquin out the door.

-

Hux anticipated some surprise at the mention of his newfound sister. “Adopted. She’s red, funnily enough. Fits right in with the rest of them,” the gingers, he meant. He watched Millicent roll about in the grass, his eyebrows furrowing. What would a half human, half twi’lek even look like?” Hux didn’t think he’d ever seen a person like that before. Or maybe he had and just didn’t know it. After all, he didn’t know what they would look like.

He’d brush that off.

Mira asked for his mother’s name. Roisin knew Mira’s name but Mira didn’t know hers. “Roisin Orla.” Pretty fitting for where she’s from. Not as out there as some outer rim territory names, but it still had the Arkanisian sound to it. Which reminded him…

Hux knelt, letting Millicent trap him with the invitation to rub her belly. He wasn’t at all surprised when the cat’s claws found his arm, her back paws pushing at his hand. She didn’t bite him, but she did lick his gloves with that sandpaper tongue of hers. “Speaking of names. She told me of the name she wanted to give me, before my father so eloquently named me after himself.”

He wasn’t quite sure how he felt about it yet, if he liked it or not. Despite whether he liked the name or he didn’t, he’d still would have preferred it over being named after his father. Footsteps he could never follow in because Brendol Hux had a skewed vision of himself, better than what he really was. Of course nothing Hux did could satisfy him. “Armitage.” Hux figured it would go without saying that he’d prefer if Mira didn’t repeat it to anyone.

Just because he had it, he didn't mind it, didn’t mean he wanted anyone to know it. Or worse, try to call him by it. He was still Hux to everyone else.
 
‘No, you don’t understand.’ Kylo couldn’t help but think as he heard Ariel’s question, and then Paquin’s addition. He wanted to put his face into his palm. He wanted to try again, to explain that he did intend to learn, but he didn’t want to be the only one. He wanted Paquin to help him work through this process, too.

He didn’t want to only have Alsen or Pryde to speak with.

He wanted another voice. Someone he trusted.

But of course, he wasn’t given the opportunity to say any of that, because as soon as Paquin started to argue against it and state that she didn’t want to, she then flatly agreed to do it – and said she was going back to her room to sleep. ‘Fine.’ Kylo felt that spike of anger, only heightened by Ariel’s comment about drama in a relationship.

Rather than follow them back to his own room, he waved Gnaeus off, who seemed to be waiting, as he took a seat in the empty conference room.

“Aren’t you—?”

“No.”

It was too distracting to follow. He’d settle into his role of reading and researching here, and he’d tell Alsen when he was done, and give him the narrowed down list to go over with Paquin. “Tell Ariel if she’s so insistent on staying behind, she can.” He stated as he opened his datapad.

If his Knights didn’t want to be a part of this, then fine.

Gnaeus took the words silently and nodded, before he would leave the room and catch up with Ariel. “Kylo said you can stay here, if you prefer.”

He somehow suspected that Ariel wouldn’t stay, in spite of the frustration of leaving.

~***~

Hux had one red twi’lek sister, and others – all ginger, from the sound of it. Mira couldn’t help but be amused by that thought. Did they all marry other gingers? Was there a rule? ‘Maybe Hux just needs to find another ginger.’ To move on from her. He did like his ginger cat, after all. Mira knew it logically wasn’t a thing, but…well, she could hope.

‘Roisin.’ Mira nodded, repeating the name in an effort to commit it to memory, as Hux knelt by Millicent and let her trap his hand. She smirked, a little, at the play between them.

Something she wouldn’t have imagined a mere month ago.

Much of this, she wouldn’t have imagined a mere month ago.

Like learning another name for Hux, after finding out his name over dinner, once upon a time. Armitage was clearly superior to Brendol for a name – and Mira was accustomed already to changing names. She’d done it three times now. “Do you like it?” She asked.

Implicit in that was the question – did he want that to be his name?

Although Mira wasn’t sure she’d ever get around calling him ‘Hux’.

Hux was…well, just who he was. His father wasn’t even ‘Hux’ to her. He was just Brendol.
 
Paquin certainly could move fast when she wanted to, Ariel noted as the woman had somehow turned the corner down the hall before her. Or maybe Ariel was just slow.

Ariel didn’t think Paquin was mad at Kylo, like he probably was with them. She was probably just frustrated, Kylo did have that effect. It seemed she wanted space, so Ariel didn’t try to catch up with her. Paquin and Kylo would probably sort it out when they communicated over this troublesome list. Though, she wouldn’t be surprised if Kylo ignored that request and probably aggravate the situation.

She rolled her eyes as Gnaeus caught up with her, saying Kylo said she could stay, She was sure Gnaeus said it in a more pleasant way than Kylo had. “He’s so dramatic.” They all were, weren’t they? “I’d certainly prefer it. But I’m not staying. I’m not letting him go out there with a fleet we didn’t know existed until yesterday.” Maybe she was being too paranoid, but it was the perfect excuse to cover up his death.

They’d covered up Snoke’s death, who's to say no one here wasn’t looking for the same opportunity?

“He really shouldn’t decide these things in the middle of a meeting,” that’s the source of where Ariel’s irritation came from. It was hard to argue when it was announced in front of everyone. They’d just get more comments like what Galli said. It probably would have helped with Paquin, too, if he’d talked to her about it first. They could all do better in the listening department, too. “We’ll get the hang of this, eventually.” They were all used to essentially being their own bosses, apart from Snoke’s occasional interference. Now they had to communicate a lot more.

“Do you think I did too much with the relationship drama thing?”

-

Hux did pause to think when Mira asked, for he understood what she implied in it. Was that even something he could do? Would he look ridiculous, or weak for trying to escape the imprint of his father? It was just a first name, he’d never change Hux. Even if it was the same surname his father possessed, Hux had built upon it more than Brendol ever had.

But changing Brendol would be a blatant attempt to distance himself from his father. That would put his family issues on display even more than they were. Not to mention, legacy was an unfortunate aspect of his line of work. It showed in Tarkin, in the Mottis. ‘You’re changing everything else.’

Mira changed her name.

Kylo Ren changed his name to escape his family, the rebel heroes.

But perhaps it wasn’t Hux running from his own family, it was his mother who picked the name after all. It was just part of Hux becoming...who he was supposed to be. “I wouldn’t have picked it myself, but...I do. Like it.” Hux figured that was the charm of the name, that he didn’t pick it. That someone had cared enough to give him his own, unique name, rather than half assing it and hoping he’d live up to the expectations. “It has meaning, as strange as it is.”

Roisin’s reasoning had been silly, but he liked it. “Perhaps I’ll ask Roisin about it, when we meet with her.” If she’d be alright with him using it. Hux gave Millicent a parting scratch, the cat trying to hold on as he withdrew. “I should warn you before you meet her that she seemed rather suspicious of you. Thinks you’re manipulating me, or something along those lines...or maybe it’s all of Arkanis that thinks that.”

Perhaps he should’ve been more subtle in saying an entire planet dislikes her, but...well, it happens. He was sure he had entire systems that loathed him.
 
Gnaeus’s suspicions had been right, at least. He was glad someone was going with Kylo. He’d have to try and keep an eye on Paquin. “I think we’ll have to get used to that,” Kylo making decisions in the middle of a meeting, “I don’t think he wants to seem…indecisive.” That would make sense.

If he had to defer to consult with them at every turn, his leadership might be called into question. They might wonder who’s opinion he sought most. All Gnaeus knew, was this felt quite like what he expected. It didn’t make it less frustrating, of course, but at least he wasn’t blindsided by Kylo immediately making decisions to push things forward.

“Maybe we can convince him to start compiling information before the meetings and talk to us…but I doubt it.” As Ariel suggested, they would have to get the hang of this. That meant, getting used to Kylo being gung-ho in meetings and not asking for opinions.

Although, some certainly gave them anyways.

Gnaeus rolled his eyes at Ariel’s question, “I don’t think it helped,” as she probably knew, “Kylo’s an idiot and new to relationships, and Paquin’s the idiot who fell for him.” Not to mention this wasn’t like a months long relationship, or even a friendship. This was still quite fresh, and both of them were in a very new situation. Kylo as Supreme Leader, and Paquin as a Knight of Ren.

“But they’re the ones who have to figure it out. And they know we support them.” At least, he assumed. They had tried to help bring them together in the first place, after all.

Now Paquin had to go deal with her emotions, while Kylo fumed in silence in a conference room.

~***~

Mira made a note of it – maybe he just liked it more than Brendol, but he liked it. She still wouldn’t be using it anytime soon. Referring to him by first name was still too strange, and they had to be formal, soon, as others arrived for this meeting. This moment was informal enough for them both.

“Most do pick names with positive meanings,” Mira couldn’t help but note, “I’m sure you picked out Millicent’s name with some good intent.” Perhaps he didn’t know what it meant, but it meant something to him to ascribe it to the cat. “I’m not surprised about Roisin being suspicious. Or all of Arkanis.”

She wasn’t offended, either. If anything, Roisin being wary of her actually made Mira consider her a bit more highly. She at least knew enough to be concerned for her son…and it was probably within Mira’s abilities. If she hadn’t given him the void stone.

She didn’t want to linger on Arkanis hating her, though.

“I don’t think I ever asked about that name, though, for our commodore. What does it mean to you?” Mira clarified.

Or she had forgotten.

The events surrounding picking up Millicent, and those that followed, had still been significantly hectic. She’d fought with Ariel and Gnaeus, and then they all had to head to Eriadu to assist Governor Tarkin with saving his world from an assault on it by Snoke. Not to mention, Millicent got a promotion through all of that.

So did she, something she still needed to work on.

There was still so much to do…Mira couldn’t imagine she’d have an actual break between her First Order work and training Finn, anytime soon.

‘At least it will keep your mind off other things.’

Hux. Somewhat. Not enough.

And her eye.
 
“I know he doesn’t want to seem indecisive,” that was usually not a good sign in a leader. One thing about Snoke was that he was decisive, but he never considered others anyway. “But if we’re all going to be working together, he can’t keep making decisions without us. He’s the Supreme Leader, sure, but we’re still a team,” Ariel couldn’t say she didn’t worry. She wanted to believe Kylo hated Snoke so much, but…

She knew what power could do to people. She just hoped they could keep him from being blinded by it.

“I hope we didn’t mess up with those two,” Ariel mused, recalling how early in the morning they’d been eager to be around each other and now...Ariel wasn’t an expert in health but too much of that wouldn’t be good. But it was still early yet and their relationship wasn’t very simple. “Y’know, I used to think Kylo wouldn’t date me because I was a Knight. I think he just doesn’t like gingers.” Not that Ariel had ever wanted to date Kylo.

She had bad taste in men, but not that bad. ‘Sorry, Paquin.’

“I’m going to shower and make myself look somewhat nice. I’m hoping the fresh from a fight look will appeal to Gideon,” Ariel threw her arm around Gnaeus’s shoulder, “If I have time after, I’m gonna find something to drink. You’re more than welcome to join me.” She squeezed him gently before her arm fell back to her side.

“If nothing else, just in case, so the last person I see doesn’t have to be Kylo.” Not that she thought she’d die, but it was unpredictable.

-

Hux let the subject change to something else easily enough, his face scrunching a bit in amusement at her query. “Millicent?” The cat looked at him as he said her name, as if she knew it. “I suppose I didn’t really think when I named her,” he just picked the first name that popped into his head, but he did suppose the name had a source as he thought of it.

“There was a woman who did laundry when I was younger...I can’t remember where, but she’d always let me sneak my–” his stuffed ewok, “some of my things into the wash. Not sure why I thought of her,” it wasn’t often that he’d even seen the laundry worker. “Eventually she was replaced by droids, I’m sure. But I suppose Millicent’s name does have a bit of positivity to it.”

He watched the cat for a moment before his attention returned to Mira. That was enough about him, his cat. “How was your night? I was…concerned you wouldn’t have adequate accommodations or care.” In other words he was worried about her, but he couldn’t say that. He couldn’t put that in words. He needed to stop...caring, to put it simply. Or stop caring so much.

It would only make things worse. For him, for Mira.

“If you’re planning on returning to the Finalizer after today, I think it would be a good idea to consult the medics there. I don’t doubt the capabilities of the medics here,” he did, actually. “But the First Order has access to more advanced technology,” he’d seen the medbay here. He wouldn’t say anything bad about it, for they were allies now and they’d cared for Mira when they didn’t have to.
 
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