Chapter 7

Summer POV

I woke up the next morning feeling cold. Actually beyond cold. I was freezing. Which didn't make sense because I was bundled beneath the covers. Yet once my eyes focused, I noticed the air in the room was too chilly to be a malfunctioning air conditioner. Something is not right...

As I pondered over this, I rolled over onto my back, having to do a double-take of the ceiling. I must be seeing things. It's like I went from Star Wars to Frozen.

Ice plastered the ceiling, a thin trail starting from the bed across to the windows. It was thin, the thickest layer at the air vent. I muttered a curse word, jumping at seeing my breath appear. Yes, that is how cold it is. I was literally shivering right now. And Kylo is shirtless, how is he not noticing this?!

I scooted over to him, not caring if he will get angry at disturbing him. This was worth it. I lightly shook him, hoping he wasn't a heavy sleeper.

He pulled the covers over his head, grumpily mumbling something I couldn't make out (and it's probably better I didn't).

"Kylo! I don't care if you're annoyed I bothered you! This is serious!" My teeth were nearly chattering from the temperature. Doesn't he feel it? "Just look around the room!"

His head popped out from beneath the comforter, his eyes widening at the sight. He fully sat up, taking in the wintery atmosphere. How he doesn't have frostbite is beyond me, since he was sleeping in nothing but his boxers.

It was a moment before he said anything, too shocked from this. And there was no hiding the fear in his voice. "Get dressed. Quickly. We have a problem."

* * * * * *

This will probably be the first and only time I will not complain about my outfit or helmet. I felt so much warmer in it than I did snuggled beneath the comforter. Which is good today, but bad for any days I might wear this when it's hot.

I followed Kylo Ren down different corridors, ones I have never traveled before. At least I think not; I could be wrong. This place a huge labyrinth after all.

As we went deeper into the ship (since Kylo's room was on the outskirts of the Star Destroyer), I noticed it was getting colder. Much colder actually. I was starting to feel it through my outfit.

Though it wasn't just me. Almost everyone we passed, both Stormtrooper and officer alike, were showing they felt the temperature drop as well. Some were blowing on their hands (even though they were wearing gloves), most were just drinking coffee. And those who didn't fit in either category walked around like this was nothing, yet I knew they were shivering on the inside.

"Kylo, what do you think is causing this?" I asked as we changed corridors again.

"We shall see," he replied, finally stopping in front of a large door. It opened automatically and we went inside.

I recognized this room immediately as the observation deck, due to the long window (which was actually smaller, triangular shaped windows pieced together perfectly) that wrapped around the room, serving as a lookout point. A bridge was stretched across the center, binding the two sides together. Beneath the bridge was a lowered second portion to the room, that had computer terminals lined up around every side of it with an officer working dutifully at each.

This was definitely (or close to) where the issue was, for the whole room was covered in some way with ice crystals. Especially along the window, which frightened me. Because when glass gets to that low of a temperature, especially with the force it takes from space, it would do what? Crack. I do not want to be sucked into the dark depths of the galaxy.

I was going to point that out to Kylo but I had a feeling he already knew. I mean, how could you miss it?

General Hux noticed our entry and approached us. He was wearing his coat today, though it was just hanging on his shoulders. For some reason he never uses the sleeves...

"I suppose you already know about the temperature issue," Hux said, nursing his coffee.

"Pretty obvious," Kylo scoffed, not wanting anything but answers. "What happened?"

Hux hesitated. "Well...we don't know."

"How can you not-"

"I assure you Ren, we are trying to solve the problem as fast as we can." Clearly neither was in the mood of the dealing with the other. "You just have to be patient."

"My patience is already wearing thin, General," Kylo hissed. "When can I expect an answer?"

An officer, which from the outfit I could tell was at rank of admiral, walked over before Hux could reply. "Sir, I have an update."

Kylo basically shoved Hux aside, wanting a direct answer from the admiral. The general, furious with the way he was just treated, stood beside me instead. I felt uncomfortable with how close he was standing next to me. If I moved my arm, it would brush up against his coat. Though I knew for a fact his closeness wasn't supposed to be a flirt, for I'm only an annoyance in his eyes.

"Our main thermal regulating unit is broken," the admiral explained. "We presume it short-circuited last night and is now overworking itself."

"Is that why the rooms are crystallizing?" Kylo asked.

"Well, the computers we use give off heat, so cool air is critical to our survival. But since the unit is malfunctioning, the air is blowing out much colder than needed-"

"So why not just turn the unit off until repaired?" Kylo interrupted, clearly impatient.

"Because, Sir," the admiral tried to nicely explain. "Without the cool air to counter the heat from the computers, we will perish from the temperature."

"We're about to perish from this one."

"We would have to turn off our computers if we wanted to shut down the thermal regulatior," Hux said, catching on. "And we can't do that because they control the Finalizer. So either way, the extreme temperature will do us in."

"Unless we can fix it in time," the admiral pointed out.

"What will happen if we wait?" Kylo inquired.

"The frigid temperature will eventually start breaking things down: the engines, the computers- it can be too cold for them -the windows...until ultimately, the Finalizer will become a floating block of ice."

I gasped and all heads turned in my direction. I awkwardly lowered my head, not wanting to be center of attention.

"How can we stop this?" Hux spoke up, desperate to save his beloved Star Destroyer.

"The unit must be fixed, though unfortunately we don't have the part," the officer replied.

"How long do we have until the starship freezes up?"

The officer pursed his lips. "Well, that depends. As long as the windows remain in one piece, we should have...I don't know...a day perhaps."

Hux cursed, not wanting his precious Star Destroyer to be lost. I doubt he was thinking about the crew. Certainly not Kylo or I. "How- where -can we get this part?"

"We can order it, but it may take a week or so before it arrives. I apologize, but I have no control over this."

"Jakku," Kylo said, grabbing everyone's attention. "The Niima Outpost has a diverse market of goods scavenged from downed Star Destroyers and other Imperial vessels from the Battle of Jakku. We will certainly find the part there. What is it specifically?"

"The console that controls the temperature has been fried. We need a knew computer board," the officer replied. This thermal regulator sounded quite a bit more complex than the A/C unit at my house. "Hopefully that's the only issue."

"Jakku is so far from here," Hux pointed out. "All the way back to the Western Reaches and Inner Rim territories. Is this ship safe enough to be flown in this condition?"

"I certainly don't suggest hyperspace."

"We will freeze before we make it there at this speed," Kylo said. "There must be some other way."

"What about your command shuttle?" I suggested.

Kylo looked at me than at his bewildered co-workers, both too embarrassed of not mentioning it sooner. The Dark Knight nodded in agreement with me. "My shuttle it is."

* * * * * *

I only had bad memories last time I was on Kylo's shuttle, so maybe this time it will be a little better.

"It will only be us two on board," I recalled him saying on our way to the launch port. "No Stormtroopers. No officers. Just us." At first I thought he was hinting something romantic until he added, "I don't want to draw attention on Jakku. Bringing an army to ransack the trading post is stupid when we can just steal a computer board. Keeping the Resistance unaware of this is our goal. Remember that."

I agreed with him at the time, but now sitting in the cockpit, I was having my doubts. He is going to fly this ship. I feel so safe...

Kylo removed his helmet before sitting in the pilot's seat, giving me some relief. At least he now has a clear view of what's in front of him. But exactly how many years has it been since he's flown a ship? Or is this his first time? Better not be.

I adjusted the copilot's seat, buckling the seat belt before saying a few prayers. It's definitely needed right now. I left my own helmet on my lap, wanting to see whatever might be coming through our windshield or the impact of a planet's surface below. If I'm going to die, I don't want it to be as a surprise.

"Are you sure we don't need a pilot?" I asked, getting more nervous as I heard the hatch shut to the shuttle.

"Summer, I've done this before," Kylo said, sounding more like a brag than an assurance. "Just relax. We will be there soon."

Relax. Right...not with you flying.

Now I know how Obi-Wan felt every time he let Anakin be the pilot. If I don't die on this trip, I can live through anything.

Kylo started pressing buttons on the console and the engines turned on. The wings bent outward, forming a "V" formation. The shuttle slowly rose from the platform and accelerated forward out of the Finalizer. I thought for sure he was going to clip the elongated wings on the ceiling of the launch port, but instead just barely missed it. I can already tell how this flight is going to be...

We were now out amongst the stars and I was starting to feel ill. Why do I have to be cursed with motion sickness...

Kylo glanced over at me. "You don't look well."

"I don't feel well..." I moaned, thankful I didn't eat much a breakfast this morning. Only a small bowl of fruit and some yogurt with granola. I should have just skipped it altogether.

"Don't you dare vomit on my shuttle."

I glared at him. "Gee, I'll hold it down just for you."

"Of all the people on Earth, I get stuck with one with motion sickness," he muttered, flipping a switch on the console.

"Um, I can hear you," I said. "I'm literally two feet from you."

"Just wait a minute," Kylo snapped, playing with the console more. He better know what he's doing. "Okay, I'm about to make the jump to hyperspace."

I stared horrified at him. "If you do that, I will not only puke but probably pass out from the effects of it. I have never been through a force like that!" He was about to protest when I added, "And don't count the trip coming up because I was unconscious."

"You will be fine. Don't you trust me?"

To pilot a ship? No. "You don't know what motion sickness is either."

He placed his hand on mine, palm to palm, giving it a light squeeze. "Use the Force Summer. It will keep your mind calm."

"How do I-"

I cut myself off as I felt the warmth travel in from his hand and throughout my body, instantly taking the ill feelings away. My mind was clear again, and my stomach felt back to normal. What a relief.

I looked back at him, smiling slightly. "Thank you."

He nodded, trying to shrug the moment off. He grabbed a lever with his free hand. "Alright. Hyperspace in three...two..."

The shuttle blasted off at speed that I didn't think was physically possible. The galaxy became a blue blur around us, but a beautiful one at that. The thrill and wonder is something that cannot be put into words.

I felt like Han Solo and Chewbacca aboard the Millennium Falcon, darting through the stars to escape the TIE Fighters chasing them. Or Luke Skywalker in his X-Wing, traveling to Dagobah to complete his training with Master Yoda. Or even the Black Squadron, the Resistance flight team led by Poe Dameron, on their way to Starkiller Base for their greatest mission yet.

Seeing this in a Star Wars movie is one thing, but actually living it is completely different.

I was so entranced by the beauty that time passed quickly, and soon enough the shuttle came out of light speed and back to the normal cruising pace. I gasped at the planet in front of us, tan in color from the desert terrain.

"That's our destination. Jakku," Kylo said as the shuttle broke the atmosphere. He let my hand go. "I need to have two hands for this."

I nodded, not caring about feeling a little dizzy if it meant we don't crash.

We flew across what literally was an endless desert, and I wondered how the heck Rey survived out here nearly all of her life, and on her own at that. No lakes in sight or any source of water. I saw downed Star Destroyers, TIE Fighters, and AT-ATs scattered amongst the dunes, her only source of income. Poor girl. No one deserves to live in these conditions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3YcCLaTnBE

A small cluster of tents were seen in the distance, my fangirl side instinctively recognizing it as the Niima Outpost. Though Kylo didn't land the shuttle out front, but instead parked it at the bottom of the nearest sand dune. I can see why, he wanted to stay out of sight. But the wings of the shuttle was not something that could be hidden very well. And now we have to walk probably two miles or so (in the scorching heat needn't I add) to reach the trading post. Perfect.

Once Kylo turned the engines off and lowered the hatch, we exited, walking side by side with our helmets tucked beneath our arms.

The black long-sleeved suit I wore was perfect on the Finalizer, but beneath the scorching rays of the merciless sun, I was literally dying. Florida is cold compared to this. Never have I felt such heat.

"Kylo..." I sounded out of breath, even though I really have not done anything physical yet. "I should have brought a change of clothes...so hot..."

"Don't whine," he snapped, putting his helmet on. In this heat?! Is he crazy?! "The faster we get what we need, the quicker we leave. Keep note of that."

The two-mile walk to the trading post sounded more like a punishment now. "But it's so far..."

"I said don't whine. How old are you?"

I raised an eyebrow. "Excuse me?

"What is your age?"

"Um, why do I have to tell?"

He studied me through his mask. "Eighteen."

I nodded. "Good guess."

"Act like it." He walked past me, rudely bumping against me for spite. I can see how this day is going to be. Lovely.

I caught up to him, remaining silent, giving him the cold shoulder.

"Your helmet."

I purposely didn't look at him. "What?"

"You have to wear it."

"Why?"

"To cover your identity," Kylo answered harshly, as if I should know this. "Your my apprentice now. Your face must remain hidden at all times. You must obey my orders."

Sounds more like a slave than an apprentice. "If I put this on, I will definitely get heatstroke." If I don't get it from what I'm wearing already.

"Summer, you're going to face many hardships in the upcoming years of your training," he spoke, sounding like a scholar. "They will be hard to endure, and you may be tempted to give up, but don't ever give in. It makes you weak and feeble, and someone is always waiting to crush you. Make a name for yourself. Prove your worthiness to the galaxy, and show off your power. Be proud of it."

I now faced him. "Is that a life lesson thing?"

Kylo suddenly walked in front of me, stopping me from continuing. "Listen to what I'm telling you. I've experienced this before, and taught myself how to survive." He looked off across the desert as a hot breeze blew, his cape and sashes flowing in the wind. "I won't be around forever. I need you to be prepared for whatever might happen in the future." He turned back to me. "You need to be able to take care of yourself."

Kylo was letting on to more than he was saying, I felt it. Perhaps he knows how his reign will end. I always thought he would turn back to the Light, but perhaps he foresees himself dying alone in the Darkness instead.

I won't let that happen.

* * * * * *

We agreed to split up once we got to Niima Outpost, hoping that won't draw as much attention. Though I'm sure everyone knows what Kylo Ren looks like, so he might have a bit of a problem.

I on the other hand, just need to worry about not passing from the intense heat since he's making me wear my helmet.

He gave me a blaster at the entrance arch, briefly showing me how to use it in the case of an emergency. I hoped that time would never come. Then we parted, each of us going in opposite directions. I chose the right half of the trading post, and he took the left.

I walked along the tents, showing a holographic picture (thanks to a round holopad Kylo lent me) to each of the business owners of what I needed, since I didn't speak their language nor would I understand them.

Tent after tent I traveled, and no one yet has the correct computer board. This surprised me. Surely I thought it would be an easy find.

As I was about to approach an exceptionally hairy, alien-like creature, I noticed someone was watching me from the tent across the way. As in, staring.

It was a boy around my age, hair as golden as the sand and eyes as blue as the sky. He wore a tan and darker brown tunic and pants, with sashes criss-crossing the front and dangling to his knees. He looked like a Padawan to be specific, but Kylo killed all of the remaining ones. It can't be possible.

I pretended I didn't see the boy as I showed the alien what I desired. He shook his head and mumbled something which of course sounded like jibberish to me. I nodded my head in gratuity and glanced back at the tent. The boy was gone. Huh. Maybe it was just some scavenger and I'm being paranoid.

After talking to a few more business owners, and getting nowhere, I paused beneath the overhang of a tent, needing a break from the sun. I looked left and right, my eyes searching the crowd for Kylo. I wasn't worried, for we agreed to meet up at the entrance when we were done checking our appointed area.

"Looking for something?" a voice said from behind me, surprising the heck out of me.

I abruptly turned around, now face to face with the same boy from before. Now up close, he was pretty cute actually.

"I can help you," the boy said, his voice sounding friendly and calm.

He came closer to me but I didn't back away, feeling immobilized. He reached for my hand with the holopad and gently cupped it, raising my arm up. I started feeling shaky from nerves but ignored it. He pressed the holopad, studying the image that appeared. Then his sparkling blue eyes met with my mask, looking kind and compassionate. "A computer board for the main A/C unit on a Resurgent-class Star Destroyer, correct?"

I stared at him awestruck, even though he couldn't see my face. This guy knows his stuff. "Um, yeah. That's exactly what I need actually. Do you have it?"

He studied me, as if debating to answer. "Maybe. Depends."

"I don't have much money..." Actually, I don't have any. "But please, if I don't get these parts, many people will die."

His face remained expressionless. "I don't like to do business with First Order operatives."

Darn it. I knew the helmet was a stupid idea. "Look, I just need this part. No questions will be asked. No one will know of this. It will be like we never even met." When the boy didn't answer, I added, "I promise."

I thought he was going to just walk away without a deal but instead, he said, "Follow me."

I followed him deeper into Niima Outpost, which is turning out to be surprisingly larger than what it appeared to be when Kylo and I flew in.

Finally the boy stopped at a small, enclosed tent and rolled one of the sides up, motioning me to go inside. I ducked my head as I entered, taking note of how many stacked crates of junk were all over the place. But then I remembered where I was. This isn't junk: this is his source of income.

He rolled the tent back down and faced me, smiling. "I would like this deal to be private if that's alright with you. You never know who's watching..."

I nodded, not wanting trouble. "I would prefer that actually."

"You can take that off you know. I am no threat to you," he said, pointing to my helmet. "As you said, this deal never happened."

I wanted to throw this hunk of metal off my head more than anything but I remembered what Kylo said. "I can't, sorry. Rules, you know?"

He slightly nodded, half smiling to cover that it actually bothered him. "Very well. Let's start over. I'm Trace Apatha, what is your name?"

I hesitated again. "No questions asked in the deal, remember?" Besides, what name would I give him? My real name or the new one Kylo gave me?

"Just trying to be friendly..." Trace said, almost sounding hurt. He walked over to a tall crate and digging through the contents.

I felt bad. He seems so nice. "Darth Shadow."

He dropped a box of bolts in his hand, staring hard at me. "I'm sorry, did you say Darth Shadow? As in related to Darth Vader?" He said the Sith Lord's name in a whisper, as if afraid who might hear.

"Um, it's the name I was given," I said, hoping I didn't freak him out. "I didn't have a say in it."

Trace turned away, looking embarrassed but sounding sympathetic. "Oh. I apologize."

"No you're fine. So...the part?"

"Searching for it as we speak," he replied, traveling deeper into the crate. "So it's probably hard working for Kylo Ren, eh?"

"Exhausting at times, but-" I cut myself off, realizing I shouldn't have said that. "I mean, who?"

Trace paused and faced me again, leaning against the stack of crates. "Please, the symbol on your helmet? Clearly First Order. A spy would never wear attire to whom they're linked to. And you're dressed way too good to be an officer of any rank, including a general. So you must be an apprentice."

I took a step back, wondering how he was figuring me out so easily. "Um, I might be but-"

"There's no need to lie, I won't tell," he said, smiling sincerely at me. Maybe a bit too much. "We agreed to keep this a secret, remember?"

I made that rule, how could I forget? "Right, right..."

As he turned back around to continue his search for the computer board, the sashes on his garment shifted, momentarily revealing a rectangular piece of metal attached to his belt. I knew that accessory anywhere.

Oh my gosh, he's a Jedi.

* * * * * *

Poe Dameron POV

I launched my X-Wing into hyperspace, flying as fast as I could back to D'Qar, wanting to alert General Organa of what I just saw.

"Hang in there BB-8," I said to the spherical astromech droid riding along in the back of the straship, who beeped happily in reply. He's always ready for adventure.

Originally, my purpose of being out here in the Western Reaches was to visit some old friends on Yavin IV, but after recognizing the command shuttle that a certain someone owns, I knew trouble would only come from it.

Then I had to make a decision: follow the shuttle or return to the Resistance?

I stalked it only shortly, just watching where it was heading. Jakku was certainly not my guess. Why the heck would the First Order want to go back to that wasteland? But then it hit me: there must be something of great importance to travel this far of a distance from the Unknown Regions, where we presumed the survivors of the explosion of Starkiller Base were hiding somewhere.

I came out of lightspeed and soared down into the beautiful scenery-covered planet. Mountains in the distance. Grasslands with wildflowers of all different colors covered the terrain below. A cloudless sky with bright sunshine kept it a constant mild and pleasant temperature. Such a gorgeous place to be...if your base wasn't entirely underground.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueqKtype7Kk

I landed the X-Wing and jumped out of the cockpit, BB-8 staying right on my heels. I smiled down at the adorable droid, loving how he always stayed right by my side no matter what the situation.

I ran past other pilots and maintenance workers, trying not to be rude for brushing them off for a conversation. I've learned that every second counts when it comes to the First Order, and no time could be wasted.

I ran inside the closest hangar and scrambled down the staricase in the corner that led to the underground portion of our base. BB-8 fell behind because, well, he wasn't built for stairs. I could hear the thump of metal echoing off the walls every time he went down another step.

"Where's General Organa? Have you seen Leia?" I frantically asked everyone I walked by until someone gave me a direct answer. I thanked her and ran towards the center of the carved out tunnels.

A large computer module with a holographic screen was in the center of the room, along with smaller computer consoles around the surrounding walls, which had roots from trees intertwined in the soil (we were underground after all). I spotted Leia on the opposite side of the room and my heart sank. She looked forlorn, but forced a smile out to any officer that approached her. That's Leia for you.

Perhaps she's getting another Han Solo relapse again. None of us here took the news of his death easily. I certainly don't blame her for taking a weekend vacation from this stressful job after we successfully blew up the First Order's superweapon. Everyone knew that took a major toll on her.

I straightened my back and held my pilot's helmet at the side, walking over to her when she was alone yet again. She noticed me coming and grinned, but I could see the true pain in her eyes. The news I have won't make it any better.

"General Organa, you look lovely today," I complemented, turning my charm on. Flattery is something I excelled at. And each of us were at the right age difference apart to know that it wasn't a flirt.

"Don't lie to me Dameron, I know how terrible I look," Leia scoffed, accepting a cup of tea from a server droid. She could always see right through me. "I thought you were visiting friends on Yavin IV today."

I bit my lip, wondering how I'll present this to her. "I was actually, until I...saw someone."

She nearly spat out her tea, instead gulping it down to prevent me from getting sprayed. "You saw who?"

I didn't need to answer. My face said it all.

She sighed, setting her tea down and leaning back against the wall. She rubbed her temples then looked up at me. "Where is he?"

"Jakku," I replied, winning an eyebrow of curiosity from her. We both were on the same page with so many things. "Yeah, same here. I don't have the slightest clue either."

"He's planning something..." Her voice trailed off as she went into thought, a normal characteristic of her. She picked her tea back up, nursing it. "I also have some bad news to tell you."

The way she suddenly changed the subject made me wince. "What exactly?"

Her green eyes met mine. "We lost a soldier. A spy actually, and a good one at that. I sent him to the Finalizer to gain secrets, but I've just received word that he's been killed."

I probably looked just as bad as her now. "Who was it?"

"Brake Atomgold."

I deeply sighed, remembering speaking with him before he left D'Quar. Such a nice guy. I was going to give him some piloting lessons when he returned. "Did we gain anything from his mission?"

She shook her head. "That's the worst part. He was discovered before he could transmit any information back to us, so he basically gave his life for nothing."

I rubbed the back of my neck, trying to push off a feeling of sorrow. "I don't even want to imagine what he went through." I reflected on my past experiences with Kylo Ren and felt a headache coming on.

"It's best we don't," Leia said, her voice sounding mournful.

I felt something bump against my leg and looked down. BB-8 finally conquered the staircase and he looked proud of himself. He swiveled his head backwards to properly see me. I couldn't help but smile. He always managed to bring a sense of joy to me.

BB-8 cocked his head to the side, studying me for a moment before rolling closer, gently leaning against me. He sensed I was gloomy and was trying to comfort me the best way a ball could.

"Thanks buddy," I said reassuringly. He beeped happily, giving me a playful nudge.

"That's some droid you got there," Leia complimented, also sounding a bit more cheerful. BB-8 could uplift the mood of a room with little effort or problem.

"Best droid there is." BB-8 spun around, presenting himself as even more adorable. He loved being center of attention.

"So about Ben..."

My head shot in her direction, never hearing her mention his real (whereas his fake) name on the base before. I gave her my full attention, sensing the importance in her tone.

"I need you- not the entire Black Squadron just you -to head back to Jakku." Her eyes revealed the seriousness of the situation. "Find the shuttle and discover who the passengers are. Stay hidden; don't get discovered. This is not a heroic attempt to take down the First Order. All I ask of you is to find the reason why they're on Jakku and report back to me." She softened, resting her arm on my shoulder. "Poe, I can't lose my best pilot. This will be dangerous. If you don't want to do this, just say so."

My heart started racing with anxiety, fear, and anticipation. BB-8 beeped, and I knew he was excited too. This kind of work was what him and I lived for. "Yes General Organa. I accept."

* * * * * *

Summer POV

A Jedi.

An actual Jedi.

Should I fangirl or scream and run?

Wait, he's a Jedi. They're all about making peace instead of war. He won't hurt me.

I'm wearing a flipping First Order jumpsuit, I'm a goner.

"Aha!" Trace pulled out a small computer board from the tallest crate, smiling smugly as he held it up. "A computer board for the main air conditioner on a Resurgent-class Star Destroyer. Now let's talk price. And not to worry, I'm flexible. We can work something out."

Great. I have no money, but he has a lightsaber. "About that...is there anything else I could pay you with besides money?"

"I'll trade, but only for something I can make a few credits off in return," Trace replied. "Life isn't easy here."

"Oh I know, believe me," I commented, thinking back to Rey's story. "But I don't have anything to trade."

Trace crossed his arms. "I can't just give this to you. I need something."

I went into thought, pondering on how to handle this. Kylo just wanted me to steal the thermostat but I can't bring myself to do it. I may be stuck as his apprentice, but I'm certainly not like him and I hopefully never will be.

Trace eyed me, shoving the computer board in the satchel tied around his waist with a leather strap. "Don't even think of swiping this when my back is turned. That will be the worst decision of your life."

How did he... "Trace, I wouldn't steal from you. Honestly, I have no money nor something to trade so...I'm sorry for wasting your time."

I headed for the exit, feeling bad for getting this guy's hopes up for a sale then backing out of it.

"Wait!"

I turned back to Trace as he walked up to me. He took a deep breath before he spoke. "If you unmask...you can have the computer board for free."

I shook my head. "I can't reveal my face-"

"I'm the only shop owner that has this part," he said persuasively. "Your men will die before you find another."

I stepped closer, studying him. "How do you know so much-"

"Because...you're Force-Sensitive. I can sense your emotions and thoughts, without being invasive like Kylo Ren." His voice suddenly became softer and serious. "Come with me. Don't use your powers for evil. Train with me and my master. We can both show you how to weild the Force for good."

"There's two of you?" I blurted out. "Kylo killed off the remaining Jedi though."

"My master has been in hiding as a Jedi long before the First Order rose to power. He found me, and stopped me from going to train with Luke Skywalker, foreseeing an 'incident' to happen there. He offered me a personal apprenticeship, and though I was hesitant, I accepted. And I'm so glad I did, otherwise I may not be here right now."

"If you're a Jedi, then why are you here on Jakku?" Another question that escaped my lips before I realized how personal it was.

"Scavenging. It's just a side job," Trace answered. "It's not mandatory but it's definitely challenging. That's probably why I like it."

"How many Jedi are out there?"

He shrugged. "Who knows? I thought Luke was the remainder, but it turns out I was wrong."

I can't believe he's answering such private questions. Though it's not like I'm going to run back and tell Kylo any of this. "To be honest, I've never met a Jedi before. You're pretty cool."

His face heated up, most likely from embarrassment of the compliment. "I'm actually shocked to hear you say that, because Kylo Ren, well...isn't too fond of us. But I could tell when I saw you out there that even though you wear the First Order symbol, you're not evil on the inside. Which also makes me wonder why you would you even be affiliated with him to begin with."

"It's a long story," I sighed.

"I have time."

"Well-"

I was cut off by loud screams outside and the sound lightsabers being turned on. Trace looked as worried as I did. He held open the flap of the tent as we exited, staring wide-eyed at the sight.

Kylo Ren was in a heated lightsaber duel. His opponent was wearing a brown robe with the hood up (I couldn't properly see his face) and wielded a green lightsaber. I looked over at Trace, who answered what I was thinking. "That's my master."

Kylo and the Jedi suddenly backed off each other, circling like tigers, waiting for the other to make the next move. Kylo glanced in my direction and froze in his tracks. His fists clenched together and he started breathing harder than he already was. He thrusted his arm at the Jedi, sending him flying backwards into a stand full of woven baskets and pottery. His mask remained locked on me. "TRAITOR!"

I stepped back, shocked. What did I do?

"YOU'RE WITH HIM!" he shouted, averting his power towards Trace, who flew back into his tent full of junk- er, I mean goods to sell.

Kylo twirled his lightsaber and started towards me. Oh this is just flipping great. He's outraged and I'm getting brought into this.

A hand grabbed mine and yanked me inside the tent. "Come on! We need to get out of here!" Trace insisted, showing me a hidden exit in the back of his tent. "Follow me!"

I didn't have time to hesitate or speak before I was dragged along with him. We dodged in and out of tents and storefronts, trying to stay hidden from view and confuse anyone following us. Such as Kylo.

I made him finally stop in one tent, my legs begging for a rest. I pulled my hand away. "Trace, this is stupid. You can't outrun Kylo. He will always manage to find me because of the Force within me."

"Are you seriously going back to that guy?" Trace asked, shocked. "He will flipping kill you!"

A red, sparking lightsaber suddenly sliced through the tent, nearly impaling Trace and cutting off my arm. Wind blew the gash open, revealing an angry Kylo with an appetite to kill.

He stepped into the tent and Trace extended his lightsaber, which gave off a bright blue hue. "Get away from her. She did nothing wrong," the Padawan said defensively.

"Her not killing you is a crime itself," Kylo countered, twirling his lightsaber as if it was light as a feather (and the remade movie props I've held proved it's not).

Trace tossed me the satchel from around his waist, nodding and smiling approvingly. He wants me to have the part even if he goes down in this fight. "You know the right path. Follow it."

Great. Now I feel guilty.

The Jedi suddenly entered the tent, his weapon still firmly in his hands. Kylo was now sandwiched between the Jedi and Padawan, but he still accepted both on for a fight at once. Could he handle this? I guess we will see.

I ran out if the tent as the fight began, not wanting to get in between the deadly weapons. Though the battle seemed to follow me outside, almost like it wanted an audience. Most residents were too frightened to stick around to watch, but few dared to admire from a distance.

Trace and his master were starting to close in on Kylo as the Dark Knight was slowing down, getting tired. He is going to start losing some limbs soon.

I couldn't just stand here. I had to do something to help Kylo. I didn't want to hurt Trace or the Jedi but I more so didn't want Kylo to get hurt. I can't help it, I have feelings for him.

I frantically looked around for a weapon before remembering I was given a blaster. I strained my mind to recall Kylo's instructions, removing the safety and aiming at the Jedi. I wasn't intending on killing, just to stun so Kylo could escape.

I shot the blaster but the Jedi saw me, deflecting the laser bolt with his lightsaber. It came back and hit me in the arm, making me drop my weapon from the pain. I forgot the pro-tip: blaster versus lightsaber. The result is pretty obvious.

I couldn't clearly see the wound (from the helmet and because black hides blood well) but I could definitely feel it. I covered the wound with my gloved hand, pushing pressure on it in case it was bleeding badly. This of course didn't help the relentless stinging and burning sensation from the effects of the laser.

Though I wasn't the only one in pain. When the Jedi blocked the shot, he took his attention away from Kylo for a moment. Kylo used that to his advantage and struck him with his weapon, slicing his left leg off at the knee. The Jedi went down and Trace ran to his side for aid, giving in on the fight. He would rather save his master than fight a highly experienced Dark Knight. Kylo didn't get the "Jedi Killer" title for nothing.

"Kylo let's go!" I shouted, grabbing his attention. I waved the satchel Trace gave me. "We have what we came for now let's go!"

Kylo looked back at his opponents, weighing his options. I knew he was planning to kill them so I ran in front of him, preventing any blow he could give. "Kylo, we need to leave while we can."

"Stand aside," he ordered, trying to get past me but I managed to block him.

"They don't need to die-"

"We don't sympathize with Jedi."

"I'm not sympathizing-"

"Then stand aside."

I firmly held my ground. "I'm not moving from this spot."

"So be it." With a quick wave of his arm, I flew off to the side, thankfully just landing on the sand. He seemed to not even care about my injured arm.

I felt something wet and sticky trickle down my arm and I dared myself to look. The wound was bleeding more, despite my pushing on it to make it stop. If I don't get this bandaged soon, I'm going to be losing a lot of blood.

I looked back at Kylo and he had his lightsaber against the Padawan's, who rejoined the fight primarily for self-defense. Trace shoved Kylo off and increased his offense, trying to keep the Dark Knight away from his master. Kylo quickly gained the upper hand though despite being tired, for his experience topped Trace's by a landslide.

Trace continued to fight until Kylo knocked the lightsaber from his hand. Then he was grabbed by the neck and held off the ground by Kylo. The Jedi helplessly watched his Padawan suffer the wrath of Ren.

"Kylo, that's enough!" I yelled.

His mask snapped in my direction, and at first I thought he was going to use his powers on me again, but instead he threw Trace into a nearby tent and marched towards me. He stopped in front of me, peering down to the ground since I never got back up from before. "Stand up."

I held my arm as I stood up, hoping Kylo would get the message. He moved my hand off and tilted his mask, studying the wound. "You've been injured." Duh. Took you long enough to care.

"Blaster hit me," I said, watching more blood ooze from it. "I really need a first aid kit."

Kylo surprisingly turned off his weapon. "Back to the shuttle now." Well, okay then.

He took off at pace I had trouble keeping up with. Dang this guy was fast... I felt bad leaving Trace just like that, but what choice do I have? I at least saved his and the Jedi's life.

Kylo reached the command shuttle before me but waited on the lowered hatch for me to arrive. I did, eventually, and was completely out of breath. He laid his hand on my shoulder and helped me inside, which shocked me. This was certainly out of character.

We sat down in the cockpit; he took the pilot's seat and I took the copilot's, just like earlier. Both of us left our helmets in the back of the shuttle. He tore off one of the sashes from his robe, tightly wrapping it around my upper arm. "This will hold you for now. Once we get into hyperspace, I'll properly bandage it."

"Thank you," I said, grateful for the small act of kindess.

Kylo stared into my eyes for a moment then broke the contact, reverting his focus to the dashboard. He turned the engine on and flipped some switches as the shuttle slowly rose from the sandy ground.

Then the shuttle suddenly stopped, frozen in midair. That's weird. The engines are still running and the wings are angled for flight.

I turned to Kylo, who had his eyes deadlocked on the sky. He was holding the shuttle still, preventing it from moving. I followed his line of sight and, with some strain, saw a narrow ship that looked like a capital "T" coming down from space. I don't recall ever seeing something like that before.

My breath tightened as the "T" formed into an "X". Oh this is just flipping great.

"Kylo-"

"I see it," he answered, having trouble hiding the nervousness in his voice. He firmly grasped the throttle and control wheel. "Hold on!"

The shuttle suddenly bolted upwards, straight into the direction of the black and orange striped X-Wing. The starfighter fired repeated shots at us, making Kylo have to constantly swerve the shuttle to dodge them. Though the issue was the shuttle was not made for combat like this. It was large and vulnerable due to its slow turns.

The shuttle shook as the left wing was hit, a metal plate breaking off and nearly coming through the windshield. Kylo cursed. "Summer, you need to fire back!"

I shot him a look. "How?! I can barely fire a blaster!"

He awkwardly reached over and pressed a button, shots firing from our laser cannons. The X-Wing dodged all of them and, with distance closing between both ships, it turned sideways, flying right in between the wings of the command shuttle. The tip scraped the roof, making sparks fly. I didn't get a glimpse of the pilot, but I saw the droid. No mistake who it was.

"Poe Dameron is flying that starfighter!" I exclaimed, a bit excited for seeing another well-known character from The Force Awakens. Problem is with his skill, our chances of surviving were reduced to almost nothing.

"I don't care who's flying it!" he snapped. I was thrown back into my chair as Kylo suddenly accelerated. "We're going to get shot down if we can't make it into space!"

The X-Wing changed course and was now following us. Kylo tried some evasive maneuvers but was limited due to the build of the ship. Shots were fired and the shuttle shook again, though this time I heard something explode. The shuttle awkwardly titled at an angle and the computer was flashing red.

Kylo cursed again. "Great! There goes one of our engines!"

"Can this thing fly with a missing engine?"

"I guess we will find out." Not the answer I wanted to hear...

"Why don't you put shields up?"

"Well, I can't reach them," he chided. "They're on your side, by the wall."

I looked dumbfounded at all the pretty buttons and switches. "Um, yeah, I couldn't even guess-"

The shuttle was hit again, the wings taking a beating.

"We're going to fall apart before we even get into space."

"No way, I didn't notice," Kylo said sarcastically. "Wait a minute..."

I looked horrified at him, not liking his tone. Something devious was brewing in that scary mind of his. "What?"

He grasped the throttle. "This is our last resort. Get ready!"

He reversed the engines and I was thrown forward in my chair (thankfully I was wearing a seat belt) like a car when the brakes are firmly hit to avoid an accident. The X-Wing flew over us again, barely missing us, not expecting the sudden change of speed. Kylo now shoved the lever forward and the shuttle bolted back into the sky, now following the X-Wing.

"Smart move," I complemented, seeing his idea.

"I know," he replied with the arrogance of his father. "And I still have one last trick up my sleeve..."

He fired the laser cannons again, this time making contact with its target. The engines caught fire upon impact and I sadly watched as Poe's X-Wing went down. We flew out if Jakku before I could see the severity of the crash.

Kylo leaned back in his chair once into space, sighing relief. "We did it...we got rid of him."

"So we're safe now, right?" I asked, starting to feel the aftermath of the crazy flight. Darn motion sickness.

"We can't afford to stick around the Western Reaches any longer. The Resistance knows of our presence. I'm going to try to make the jump into hyperspace," Kylo announced.

"Can this shuttle take the effects of lightspeed?" I asked, looking at the damaged wings. "We're missing an engine and the shuttle looks like it's going to fall apart."

"We will see."

I said prayers as he typed in the coordinates and pushed down on the lever, though nothing happened. Our only working engine revved then sounded like it burned out.

He pursed his lips. "Well, there's your answer." He sat forward, playing with the computer. "We need to fix the engine or we're stuck up here. I'm looking for a nearby plant that would be useful to us..." He stopped at one particular one. "Abregado-Rae. Not too far away and I bet we could find help there."

"I've never heard of it," I said, not recalling it from the depths my Star Wars knowledge. "What's it known for?"

"Let's just say it may not be the nicest place to go, but I know we can find help there." How reassuring.

"But we can't use lightspeed," I pointed out.

He shrugged. "We're just going to have to fly there the old fashioned way. May take more time but it's our only option."

"What about the Finalizer? Your admiral guessed it would only last until tomorrow before it freezes."

"Let's just hope we don't take that long," he replied, not sounding very convincing.

The command shuttle, with only one half-working engine to propel us forward, made its way through space. With the single engine, that was straining enough as it is, we weren't moving very fast but at least we were moving. Hopefully the admiral was wrong with his assumption of time...

Poe Dameron POV

"Hold on BB-8! We're going down!" I shouted.

I managed to not directly crash my X-Wing but instead slide it down a large sandy dune, which greatly lessened how the impact should have been. The X-Wing stopped at the bottom of the dune and I immediately jumped out, BB-8 following behind me. I stepped back to a safe distance away, since the engines were on fire, and cursed at my destroyed starfighter. There was no repairing this.

"Two X-Wings in one month," I said with a sigh to BB-8. "General Leia is not going to be happy with me."

BB-8 beeped up at me.

"No, I'm not blaming Threepio," I scoffed down at him. "Do you hear yourself? Now you sound like Artoo."

He beeped again.

"I just have to take the blame myself buddy. There's no way around it. Come on, let's find some shelter and a way to contact the Resistance."

I trudged across the sand and BB-8 rolled along right beside me. I wonder if sand was hard for him to maneuver across.

A loud and sudden explosion along with a burst of flames erupted behind us. I jumped and jerked myself around. BB-8 screeched with terror and fled behind me for protection.

I cursed again, seeing what was left of my blown-up X-Wing. I should have known that would happen since the engines caught fire. Good thing we got out of that thing. BB-8 poked his head around my legs, seeing if it was safe to come out.

I sighed. "Oh yeah, I'm definitely never going to hear the end of this."

Kylo POV

I glanced over at Summer, as she shifted uneasily in her chair. She didn't look well. The crazy flight before really messed her up.

I hesitated, wondering if I should help. But that would make me appear as soft, right? I can't become a weakling like...like my father. I shuddered. No it can't happen.

I looked over at her again, feeling strange. My stomach was weird and my chest seemed to tighten and almost hurt. What is this? Wait a minute, is this...guilt? What the heck is wrong with me?!

"You alright?" I blurted out, not sure how to handle this.

She didn't turn to me. "Kylo...motion sickness...terrible..."

"Use your powers," I said softly. "Relax and let the Force flow through you. It will ease the motion sickness."

"But isn't that the way of a Jedi?"

I cringed at the mention of the enemy. "Just do it to help yourself. From here on out, I'll show you how to use your powers in the Dark Side only. Then you don't have to deal with the conflict I have..." I let my voice trail off, reflecting on how I was forced to live my life like this. Snoke insisted it was best to have control of the Darkness and Light, but I wished I could just stay on one side. The Dark Side of course.

She shut her eyes and I raised my hand, sensing the Force spark within her. She was doing this by herself; I was just monitoring it, you could say. Her powers moved outwards in waves, like at a beach. It engulfed her body and I saw her slowly relax. A smile tugged at my lips. I was proud to see her accomplish this on her own.

Summer opened her eyes and I jerked my hand away before she noticed, acting as if I was checking the coordinates on the computer. I winced, now actually seeing how far we have left to go. Five hours but in space that was forever...

"Feeling better?" I asked.

She nodded. Her voice sounded smooth and tranqil, like she was entranced. Or maybe it's I who was entranced by her. "Yes, like the flight never even happened." She looked sincerely into my eyes. "Thank you."

I broke eye contact, feeling uncomfortable. She has the ability to cast me under a spell that I have not yet found a cure to. I long for the day I will finally be able to break it. Somehow.

Hux POV

I shivered and pulled the neck of my coat closer together. The temperature is so frigid it feels like I'm wearing nothing at all. If Ren doesn't make it back here in time, and I end up dying on this blasted Star Destroyer, I will haunt him for eternity. Don't ask me how, but I will find a way.

"Try using the sleeves," a Stormtrooper suggested as he passed by me.

"I know how to wear a coat!" I fired back at him.

He shrugged and kept on walking. I made sure he wasn't looking then I slipped my arms through the sleeves of the coat and buttoned it up properly. The difference was extraordinary. I think I might live an hour longer than everyone else here just because of that.

A shuffling of metal behind me made me turn around, though I didn't question who it was. Captain Phasma walked with her head held high, but I could tell she was just as cold as me. Her armor even had frost buildup on some parts.

"Sir, any news from Ren or the girl?" Her voice always sounded so calm and angelic. Sometimes I wonder if she could even raise her voice.

I sadly shook my head. "Not as of yet. I will alert you if I do."

"General, I think remaining in space would just be suicide, no?

I furrowed my brows, though that thought crossed my mind from the start. "What do you mean?"

"Say that Kylo returned with the part in time and the A/C unit was fixed, how long would it take for the Finalizer to defrost? And now let's picture he doesn't return before tomorrow, are we just supposed to wait up here to perish?"

"What are you suggesting Captain?"

"I think we should find a safe place to land the Finalizer," she answered. "Then it's guaranteed no one will die."

"Unless the windshields crack entering the atmosphere," I pointed out. "Then we're doomed."

"But won't that be a better risk to take over staying in space?"

I pondered back and forth, my mind quickly picking out the pros and cons. "Captain, I do agree, but I will give Ren the benefit of doubt. If he is not back here by midnight, which is not too long from now, we will land this Star Destroyer. But where..."

"Our new base, perhaps?"

"It's nowhere near finished. We don't even have a landing platform built yet. Plus we are some distance from it."

"But we will be on solid ground and safe from the effects of space. And we are just drifting along, so why not steer towards the planet?"

I knew she was right. "Very well. We shall go with your plan." I turned to the freezing crew. "Set course for the base. At midnight, if Ren has not returned, we land there and remain until he returns. Understood?"

No one argued. Everyone looked relieved and eager to get out of space. And I admit, I was one of them.

* * * * * *

Summer POV

"There it is. Abregado-Rae," Kylo said, waking me up from my nap. I felt so peaceful from using the Force before it put me to sleep. "We have arrived."

I forced myself to wake up, trying to become alert for the landing process. "How long did it take?"

"Approximately three and a half-hours. We made excellent time considering one engine is out."

The command shuttle went smoothly through the atmosphere of the planet, encountering some thick cloud coverage but then open sky again. I stared in awe at the old-fashioned cities below, all with canals running through the midst of the buildings. People were walking along the sidewalks but some were traveling in what looked liked gondolas up the canal. It was freakishly similar to Italy in a way.

A large and surprisingly busy spaceport came into view. Kylo cautiously maneuvered onto it, knowing that landing would be a bit more difficult since one functioning engine tended to make the ship tilt from gravity. As soon as the command shuttle touched the port, the second engine blew out from being overworked. Kylo swore. "Great. Now we lost both engines."

"So we're stuck here."

"If that wasn't already obvious, yes."

"Will we ever be able to leave?" I asked, trying not to freak out. Judging by the species I saw with few humans in between, this planet may not have been the best of choices.

He left the cockpit and I followed. "Soon. Hopefully very soon. Worst case scenario we spend the night."

I had a feeling that would probably happen. "The Finalizer won't be able to make it that long."

"Then Hux will have to figure something out because I don't know what to do." He made it sound like an admittance. "He's smart, in a outstretched way. He thrives for being in charge, so let him be for once. Blame is on him if everyone dies."

Well, that was very uncharacteristic of him.

I was going to point out how that's not necessarily fair to do to Hux but decided against it. "So what do we do here? Look for a mechanic?"

"Judging by what the computer reads for damage, I can probably fix the shuttle, I just need the parts."

Oh here we go again. "Such as..."

He shrugged. "I will have to properly examine it first. Hopefully it's not as bad as it seems."

"You could actually fix this thing?" I must say, I am impressed.

Kylo nodded. "Yeah, my dad-" He shook his head, looking like he said a word that would curse him. "I mean, I acquainted myself at a young age with the layout of certain ships. I guess it paid off."

I could see the pain and hatred in his eyes for the accidental mentioning his father. I felt sorry for him. "Well, if you can go figure out what we need, I'm ready to help you get the parts."

He winced. "Unless...the entire engine is blown and we have to completely rebuild it."

I don't think I like the sound of this. "How long would that take to fix?"

He averted his eyes and replied softly, "I don't know."

"So we would be stranded here?"

He nodded again.

I was right. I didn't like it.

》》》》》》》》》

Hello to my lovely followers! Due to the addition of Kylo and Summer landing on Abregado-Rae instead of just going back to the Finalizer (Poe wouldn't have appeared then), the chapter had been extended greatly and I had to cut it in two or this would probably be like 20k words. Not to mention it would be that much longer until I was able to post it. I didn't want to leave you guys that long without an update, so I figured out a way to make it a cliffhanger. Hope everyone still enjoys the chapter 😊

If you like this story, please share it. And comments are always welcome! I want to hear your thoughts on the chapter so I know how well I'm doing with it 😄

As for artwork: ik the majority of the chapter takes place on Jakku, but this artwork of Kylo Ren awaiting Rey and Finn on Starkiller Base is just breathtaking, isn't it?