Chapter 9

Summer POV

I walked down the sidewalk along the canal, glancing at every storefront I passed. I couldn't read any of the signs, so I went by pictures or merchandise in the windows. The crowd has thinned tremendously, most finally retreating to a hotel or back home. Not that I cared, I only had one thing on my mind and I wasn't going to let anyone hold me back.

The farther I walked down the sidewalk, the fewer people I saw, until basically I had it to myself. I'm not sure if that was good or bad because if there was no people, with how busy this area was, then the shops were most likely closed.

I stopped in front of one, specifically to rest for a moment but once I studied the building more thoroughly, I realized this was exactly what I was looking for.

A mechanic, or at least a ship repair shop, was what I guessed the two-storied building to be. This was probably a family business, and the second story was where everyone slept. There were boxes of parts in the lower window, along with toy-sized models of starfighters. This has to be it.

I walked up to the automatic door, praying it would open, but it didn't. I even pushed on it but it wouldn't budge. Great. The place is closed. But I've come this far, I'm not giving up yet.

I closed my eyes and focused on the door, hoping using the Force would make it open. Concentrating intently, to the point of where my head started hurting, the door slowly inched upwards, but didn't fully open. I finally let it go, not being able to hold it any longer.

Panting, I stepped back, wondering if there was another way in without physically breaking anything. I don't want to burglarize the joint, I just need to...convince the mechanic to help me. It may take some...aggressive negotiations; lightsaber may or may not be included.

After glancing around to make sure no one was watching, I sneaked around to the backside of the building, hoping for anther way inside. There was another door but that one was locked as well.

"I didn't want to have to do this, but General Hux needs us," I said with a sigh, reaching for Kylo's lightsaber and turning it on. I carefully inserted the beam of light through the door and slowly began carving a hole large enough for me to enter. This was difficult, because I had to use all my strength to push the weapon through the thick metal. It was also time consuming, and I prayed that no one would notice my doings at least until I was inside. I could hide from there.

About halfway done, I paused, giving my arms a short rest, then continued on again, determined to finish it. Finally, I managed to carve a circle large enough for me to crawl through into the metal. Just one problem...the loose piece was still sitting in the door. If I was to push that out, if I even was able to accomplish that, the sound would probably wake up the neighborhood.

I hesitated but ending up just shrugging, for this was the only way inside. I focused on my carving and, once I felt my mind grab hold of it, I pushed as hard as I could. The thick metal moved forward and then fell into the room, the sound echoing far too loudly to not have waken anyone up. It's like a freight train impacted the building.

I waited, my eyes constantly watching my surroundings. No one was on the sidewalks, but I'm sure the noise was heard farther down the canal. No lights turned on in any nearby house, and this building remained as dark as before I disturbed it. Maybe I was wrong. Perhaps this was only a business and not partnered with a residence.

I carefully stepped through the hole in created in the door into the pitch black room. I couldn't even see my own hand in front of my face.

Wanting to stay safe and quiet, I turned lightsaber on again for use as a flashlight. Sparks flew off the beam, its unsteadiness becoming even more distinguishable in the darkness. The growl it emitted sounded unnatural yet powerful. I swear, with how long Kylo has owned this, if it decides to blow up on me now...

I waved the lightsaber around to get a better view of the room. Boxes were on shelves, parts of motors were scattered on workbenches...this is exactly what I'm looking for.

A staircase in the corner of the room caught my eye, and I felt tempted to discover where it leads to. I lowered the lightsaber as I climbed the staircase to watch my footing, then rose it back up once at the top. I faced a hallway with two doors directly across from each other about halfway down. A window at the end let in moonlight, almost enough to where I could turn off my "flashlight".

The layout of the floor made me wonder. It looked like people would definitely live up here, but if so, then how did they not hear my entrance?

I approached the door on the right, curious. I touched the door and it jolted open, a older man greeting me with a blaster. He fired and I deflected the shot only with luck, but I stumbled back, shocked to suddenly go on defensive. I bumped into the other door and it also opened, making me fall inside since I was already in the backwards motion. I landed hard on the ground and the lightsaber slipped from my grip.

I rubbed my head and looked up to see two boys (twins it looked like) in their twenties, both with blasters at me. I put my arms up in defense. "Please! Don't shoot!"

The man across the hall entered this room, his blaster still pointed at me. I glanced behind him and spotted a woman with a young girl hiding in the corner before the door shut. Well, I guess a family does live up here. "I would start talking quickly if you would like to leave here without holes in you."

I tried to gather my composure and talk calmly. "Now, I know this looks bad-"

"What do you think?" the man interrupted, clearly not in the mood for excuses. And I don't blame him, I am at fault for barging into his house. "Let me just say we don't take burglars easily..."

"I didn't steal anything," I honestly said. "And I wasn't planning on doing so. That is not why I'm here."

He laughed. The twins held their reactions back. "Alright, I'll play along with your pathetic form of an excuse. If you aren't here to strip my store dry, then why the Force would you even break in?"

"My friend's shuttle is broken down and I need a mechanic." Even I admit it sounds stupid. What was I thinking...

He laughed again, this time wiping a tear from his eye. "You think I'm going to buy that, come on! At least sound convincing."

"But it's not a lie," I clarified. "My friend is very ill, and I need to get him home for medical attention. The shuttle we rode in on has blown both of its engines, so we're stranded here. Please, I know this was not the right way to approach you and I deeply apologize for my entry, but will you help repair the shuttle?"

His eyes drilled into me. "You have a lot of nerve asking such a thing of me after breaking in. The answer is NO."

I figured that. "But-"

"Look, I will let you leave here without alerting security, if you plan on doing it within the next five minutes." He stepped out of the doorway but kept his blaster on me. The twins did the same. "Now get out of my-" He noticed the lightsaber on the floor and picked it up, studying it. "What an ancient and faulty design. Why would you choose this?"

"It doesn't necessarily belong to me, although-"

"Are you a Padawan?" His tone suddenly changed. It still sounded angry, but with a hint of pain. The twins remained silent but looked compassionate at their father.

I thought carefully before I answered. "Yes."

The man glanced at the weapon again. "This is made for one who seeks revenge, power, authority. You are no Jedi."

I shook my head, looking guilty. "No. I'm not."

"You are training in the ways of the Dark Side of the Force?"

I nodded shamefully, not knowing how to verbally reply.

He stepped towards me. "Ever heard of a Dark Knight named Kylo Ren?"

I paused not knowing if I should reply. The man noticed my hesitation and I quickly answered, "Yes, he is my mentor actually."

He stared me down, his eyes filling with angry tears. One of the sons rubbed his back for comfort. "You are affiliated with that...that...beast of a human being?!"

I swallowed back nerves. "I know I'm his apprentice, but I'm truly not like him."

"Really?" His tone revealed disbelief. "No thirst to kill the innocent? No desire to cast a shadow of fear into this blasted galaxy?"

"No, I would never-" I cut myself off, noticing a picture in a frame on the wall that stood out from the rest. It was a family photo, with the man and his wife (the girl was missing so she probably wasn't born yet) and three sons. The twin set stood behind another boy, who was dressed like a Padawan and was holding a lightsaber hilt. My breath caught in my throat as I pieced everything together.

"Kylo Ren killed my son," the man spoke, his voice cracking slightly. "He mercilessly slaughtered him along with others at Luke Skywalker's Jedi academy. I sent him away to achieve good in the galaxy...and he died at the hands of a monster. The same monster whom you call your 'mentor'."

I tried hard to hold back sympathetic tears. "My condolences, truly. Kylo has made many terrible mistakes-"

"Mistakes?! You call him murdering my son a mistake?! Well, then here is my mistake!" The man started towards me and the twins held him back, trying to calm him down.

"Father, don't act like him!" one of the boys shouted at him. "Don't be like the person you hate most and kill an innocent human being!"

The man finally dropped to his knees, panting, giving in. "You're right...her life shall not be ended by me." His dark eyes met with mine. "Her own master will turn on her first."

I tried not to let the comment bother me, but I couldn't help but wonder deep down inside if he was right.

The twins assisted their father back to his feet. "We can handle the situation from here. Mother and Phoebe probably need comforting."

He reluctantly nodded. "I want her out of here, dead or alive. Am I clear?"

"Not a problem father."

He handed one of his sons the lightsaber and whispered, "Keep this from her until she is off our property Caleb."

Caleb took the weapon proudly. "There is nothing to worry about. Kai and I will handle her, one way or another."

The man glared at me before he left. "Don't give my boys trouble or I will kill you, understand?"

I timidly nodded, glad one less threat will be in the room.

Caleb motioned to me with his blaster after his father left. "Get up, but keep your hands where I can see them."

I did as he said, standing up but leaving my hands in clear sight. "Do either of you know how to repair a shuttle?"

"You're still wanting our help? Your audacity is shocking and just disgusting!"

"I'm desperate, I need a mechanic!"

"We're not the only repair shop on the Old Patch, you know that right?" Kai pointed out. "There are plenty around the Spaceport. Most never close."

"I don't know my way back there," I admitted, embarrassed. "I've never been to this planet before."

"Well, we aren't taking you, if that was what you were hoping," Caleb scoffed.

"No, I was just hoping to find help."

"By breaking into someone's house? Not going to find much that way."

"I know it was stupid, but I needed assistance ASAP. As I said before, I'm desperate!"

"A little too desperate. Look, let's pretend we did want to help, which we don't, repairing destroyed engines would take days. Not even the most professional of mechanics could fix it overnight."

I sighed. "Just show me out. I don't need to bother your family any longer. Please forgive me for intruding."

Kai moved behind me, holding his blaster against my back, making me walk forward. Caleb led the way, going down the staircase and froze at the bottom in front of the destroyed door. "What the Force happened here?!"

"Caleb, language," Kai scolded. He whipped me around to face him. "Did you do this?"

"It was her lightsaber you idiot," Caleb answered for me, running his hand inside the carving. "It can cut through anything."

"I know that," his twin brother fired back. "It's the point of it. There is such a thing as knocking."

"I'll reimburse you for the damages," I promised, feeling bad I went this far.

"No, we don't want to be affiliated with the First Order in any way." Caleb dragged me over to the door and motioned to the hole. "Now get out!"

I crawled through the door and paused outside, looking back at both boys with a hope one might change his mind. "Please..."

Caleb fired a shot and I jumped back, ducking. I noticed after he purposely missed but I wasn't going to test him or his brother any longer. I hurried away, running back to the canal in around the front of the building. Great, now what? I failed my objective and I'm right back where I started.

I walked out on a small pier and sat down on the edge, letting my feet dangle. I looked at my reflection in the water. Am I really becoming like Kylo Ren? I just broke into a man's house and store for crying out loud, I would have never done such a thing on Earth. I think I might have even threaten the guy with the lightsaber if he didn't agree-

I cursed. Those boys still have Kylo's weapon. This is going to be a problem...

Kai POV

"We shouldn't have helped her, right?" I asked in a whisper as we walked back into our bedroom.

"Do you hear yourself?" Caleb inquired, shocked. He sat down on his bed and I did the same to mine on the opposite side of the room. He still had the lightsaber in his hand, which gave me eerie memories.

"Just...why do I feel...so guilty then?"

He shot me a look. "I think you've lost it. She works beside the man who killed our brother. You want to help that?"

"Of course not. You know how much I miss our younger brother." My eyes fell upon the weapon.

"Then why would the thought even cross your mind?"

I shrugged. "I don't know Caleb, I have guilt for some reason." A thought then crossed my mind that made me feel ill. "You don't think she will tell on us, do you?"

He raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

"Such as tell Kylo Ren we wouldn't help her. What if he finds out we're the family connected to the Padawan he killed? What if he puts a price on our heads for bounty hunters? What if he comes to our house to kill us?"

"Kai calm down!" Caleb shouted at me, seeing how heavy I was breathing. Although his voice also showed uncertainty. "I'm sure you're just thinking too much, I doubt Ren would actually come here." He glanced at me, questioning his assumption. "Right?"

I shrugged again. "I don't know...I hope I'm just being paranoid."

He bit his lip, a nervous habit he couldn't seem to break. He slowly placed the lightsaber down on the nightstand. "Stop making me think like this. You're overreacting and I'm being stupid enough to play along." He wiggled himself beneath the covers and turned off the lamp. "Just go to sleep. Everything will be fine tomorrow."

I wasn't even going to make an attempt, my mind having too many thoughts darting through it. I crossed the room to the window, peering out at the canal to the right. A dark figure caught my eye and my breath caught in my throat. "Caleb, she's still here."

I have never seen my brother move so fast in my life. He shoved me to get a better look outside. "She is? Where?"

I forced myself to the window to point. "By the canal. She's on the pier."

It didn't take him any time at all to spot her. "Why hasn't she left yet?"

"I don't know, I was going to ask you that!"

"What is she doing?"

I squinted, straining to see. "Just sitting there it looks like."

"Do you think she's waiting on someone?"

We turned to each other in sync, both of us having the same idea. "REN!"

Summer POV

I heard footsteps coming in my direction and I jumped to my feet, ready to fight or flee if necessary. I raised an eyebrow at the twins approaching me. "What do you two want?"

"Suppose we could help with your shuttle problem, what's in it for us?" Kai, who I guessed it was (they are twins after all), asked.

I glanced eerily back and forth between them. "What is this?"

"Take it like this: We don't want the First Order to bother us, and you need a way off this planet. We fix the shuttle, you leave and keep this meeting a secret. Not a word, and I mean a single word, to Kylo Ren. Do we have a deal?"

I studied him. "You two know how to repair a command shuttle?"

"We can repair anything," Caleb bragged. "And we have parts for the ion engines as well as lights bright enough so we can see what we're doing in the darkness."

I was becoming less hesitant to accept, liking what I was hearing. "What about your father?"

Kai rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, let's just say he doesn't know that we're doing this and we're so dead if he finds out."

I nodded, remembering that feeling. "Alright I'm buying. But on one condition: Caleb, I need Kylo's lightsaber back."

Caleb hesitated and Kai nudged him. He sighed and reluctantly handed over the weapon in his backpack. "Here. As long as it stays out of our hearts, keep it. Now do we have a deal?"

I smirked as I attached the hilt onto my belt. "Let's get to work boys."

*  *  *  *  *  *

With the help of a four clumsy DUM pit droids, Caleb and Kai managed to sneak out all the supplies that they assumed was needed by the shuttle, from how I described the damage to them. They loaded everything up on a flatboat and we were on our way down the canal toward the spaceport.

The droids were having a hard time behaving in the back, bickering in their native tongue and occasionally punching the other on his oval-shaped head.

Caleb groaned, annoyed, jerking his head back to the droids. Kai covered his mouth, trying not to laugh. "I swear, if you idiots don't shut up, you're all walking the rest of the way there."

The droids immediately settled down, mumbling irritated beeps amongst themselves. I tried not to laugh over their behavior.

We finally arrived at the spaceport, and I was surprised to see it was just as busy as when Kylo and I left before. Unloading was harder than filling the boat up, for the twins and droids were having an issue with pesky passing-byers who wanted to buy their goods or take a chance at stealing something when they weren't paying attention.

Kai and I went ahead while Caleb and the droids stayed behind with the supplies. He wanted his brother to properly assess the damage before carrying everything across the spaceport.

"So where is the shuttle?" Kai asked, his pace nearly in sync with mine.

"You can't miss it," I answered, pointing ahead to the wing tips peaking above the rest if the ships here. "Right around the corner."

Kai froze and his jaw dropped as the shuttle fully came into view. "That...is one big ship. The wings like...touch the stars..."

I laughed, turning to him. "Never seen a command shuttle before?"

He shook his head. "Not an Imperial model."

"It's not Imperial, but is based on that design. Follow me."

I arrived at the backside first, Kai mesmerized with the size of the shuttle. It truly wasn't that large compared to other ships here, but the wings were certainly impressive.

"The wings are a little battered," he said, craning his neck to see the top. "But they should hold up." His eyes fell upon the engines and his eyes widened, though not in a good way. "What the..."

"I told you they were badly damaged," I said, noticing his shock.

"Damaged? They're basically destroyed." He ran his hand along the side of one engine and the plate fell off. He stepped back, not wanting to break anything else. "Okay, I seem to be no help."

"Look, it doesn't matter the time taken or the cost, the question is: can it be fixed tonight?"

He exhaled deeply, studying the engines. "Well...one night is not a lot of time...but we will definitely try."

*  *  *  *  *  *

I continued to pace back and forth with my hand on the lightsaber hilt, standing guard while the twins attempted to repair the shuttle. The DUM pit droids (they seriously should be called DUMB droids) gave them tools and parts when requested, as well as tried themselves to fix more minor areas of the engines.

Time passed. Minutes felt like hours. Actual hours probably did pass. My eyes were tiring from watching the area so intensely. There were tall, bright lights pointed down on the engines for it to be seen clearly in the dark, but my overactive mind thought of that only as a target for thugs. 

"How are you boys doing?" I called back, not wanting to let my guard down.

"Not bad!" Kai shouted back. "The left engine is nearly done-"

I heard a loud and sudden electrical charge and I looked back to see a DUM droid getting his circuits fried out of him. He was finally thrown off, far and high enough to where it look like he was flying until he fell into the canal. I glanced at the twins, confused. "What happened?"

Caleb groaned. "I told him not to stick his hand in the electrical port but did he listen? Nooo....he deserves to be dead now."

I shook my head, holding in a laugh as I resumed my position as guard. Then I felt something strange come across me. It was a feeling of sadness and pain...as if the galaxy was weeping. I looked up at the stars, wondering what caused this wave of emotion to sweep over me. Something shifted in the Force, and it wasn't in a good way.

I noticed one star was brighter than the rest in the sky. Normally on Earth, I would say this was the North Star. But now since I'm in goodness-knows-where in the galaxy, that may not be the same one. I watched it sparkle and gleam, overshadowing the other dimmer and smaller stars around it.

Just somehow, and don't ask me how, but I felt like the emotion wave in the Force was connected with that star. It baffled me, and will continue to do so until I know the reason behind it. The Force does work on strange ways, but this...and the changes of me being outside at the same time to look up at that star...why?

*  *  *  *  *  * 

Kylo POV

I struggled to open my eyes, feeling exhausted and weary. Sunlight peaked in the slivers in between shades on the sliding glass doors and I covered my sight, too early for that kind of brightness. My head felt excessively heavy as I sat forward, and I rubbed it to wake myself up. I definitely was drugged last night, no doubt. What did Summer say it was...creeping powder...sleepy chowder...I don't remember. Just something bad. Speaking of the girl...

I looked around the room once my vision focused, wondering where she was. I had the bed to myself, the bathroom door was open, the terrace was empty...what the heck?

Once I felt like I was strong enough to stand, I carefully slipped out of bed, nearly toppling back down onto it. I regained my balance then hobbled across the room, double checking the bathroom to make sure it was indeed empty. I took the advantage and leaned over the sink, splashing water onto my face to help wake myself up. I glanced at my reflection in the mirror, my face still dripping wet, almost seeing a different person looking back. Not Kylo Ren, but... No, never. He's dead. I am only who I should be. The drug is mixing up my thoughts.

Then the remembrance of Summer missing bouced back into my crazy head. Curiosity and wonder was quickly replaced with anger and frustration of the unknown. Did she purposely abandon me, seeing I was weak and helpless? Was she part of the reason I was drugged? Maybe that's what she wanted. With me out of the picture, she would have control of the First Order. But my shuttle was broken, she couldn't leave. Maybe she found a ride with someone else.I tried to shake the paranoia. No, Summer wouldn't do that. But the fact that she left without notice worried me...

I left the bathroom, nearly tripping over my own feet as I sat back down on the bed. I tried to mentally slap myself awake. This feeling is just disgusting. I can't function like this. The drug has to wear off soon.

I slipped my boots on, determined to press on despite the "hangover" I had. I reached for my belt and noticed something very distinctive was missing...

My lightsaber. My only weapon. Gone. I frantically looked around the room, hoping I misplaced it. I tried not to panic as I strained my mind to remember where it was last in my possession. I had it at the cantina...entering the hotel...and even once I crashed onto the bed.

I forced myself onto my feet, checking beneath the sheets and under the bed. What could have happened-

Then it hit me. Summer took off my belt before I passed out last night. It all made sense now in my malfunctioning mind.

My fists clenched together, and I felt my blood begin to boil. The crave of evil was sparked within me. "She stole my weapon and abandoned me..." I growled through clenched teeth. "She is probably going to claim I died to the Supreme Leader so she gets to rule the galaxy beside him. No...she won't get away with it...I won't let her..."

My anger continued to rise and felt as if I was going to explode. The walls began to crack, paint peeling off and fragments falling onto the floor. The room will probably eventually collapse but I don't care. Right now I felt...

Great.

I stood up, feeling rejuvenated from the Force. I smirked as the windows shattered and the terrace began to crumble. Look at me. Look at my capabilities and hold in the Force. I am so...powerful.

I remained in this state as I marched out the door, literally blowing it off its hinges with my strength. I felt invincible, indestructible, like nothing right now can stand in my way.

"Summer better be ready for what's coming at her...she will be paying dearly for betrayal..." I spoke as I entered the elevator. I rushed it down, wanting to get out and start my search for her.

I finally made it outside of the hotel and I stood there, the world a blur and my vision and thoughts focused on one thing only: "I will find you...and I will kill you."

Summer POV

I jolted awake, startled from an engine starting up behind me. I can't believe I fell asleep, what kind of sentry am I?

I scrambled to my feet and rushed back to the shuttle, seeing that was what turned on. I swear if those boys are trying to steal it from me or some other thug is making that attempt...

I turned on the lightsaber as I ran up the ramp inside, ready to eliminate whoever the enemy may be. I stopped before entering the cockpit, seeing Kai and Caleb at the controls. The DUM pit droids were nowhere to be seen.

"Everything alright boys?" I asked, wanting to make my presence known.

Caleb kept flipping switches but Kai gave me his attention. He was about to speak when he saw the lightsaber. "Hey, I thought we had a deal!"

Caleb shot himself around, fury in his eyes. "Before you kill us, know we slaved the night away without rest to fix your precious shuttle."

I shook my head, turning off the weapon and reattaching it to my belt. "Sorry. I thought you two were trying to take off with the shuttle and leave me behind."

"Nope, just doing what you asked."

I put my hands up in defense. "Alright, I said I was sorry."

Caleb went back to the controls. "Okay, the engines seem to be functioning properly so far. Could I take this for a test run or would that be considered stealing?"

Kai punched him in the arm. "She apologized. Get over it."

"I would prefer if you tested it for me," I said, taking a seat that popped up out of the floor behind theirs. "Thank you."

Caleb sighed, sounding nervous. "Here goes nothing."

The shuttle slowly lifted from the platform, the wings folding outward as normal. Then it rose higher before flying off high into the sky, skimming the horizon. The fact it is actually back in the air impressed me. Those boys definitely knew what they were doing.

"So far so good," Caleb said, his voice a little more at ease. "Let's try breaking the atmosphere."

I noticed Kai buckle his seat belt and I suddenly wanted to get off this ship.

The shuttle made a smooth transition into space, and we were soon gliding amongst the stars. The ship rides even better than it did before. Perhaps new engines were exactly what it needed.

"I want to try lightspeed," Caleb announced. "Please trust me. I won't go far and I will come right back."

I nodded. "I have full trust in both of you."

I swear I saw a smile on his face as the shuttle was launched into hyperspace. The stars blurred into blue beams of light around us. The sight still leaves me awestruck. And the best part was I didn't even feel too dizzy. I'm either conquering my motion sickness or the fix in the shuttle helps ease the affects of lightspeed.

After a few minutes, the shuttle came out of hyperspace and cruised back into Abregado-rae, landing perfectly on the spaceport platform. Caleb sat back in his chair, satisfied with himself. "Well, the shuttle passed all the tests. We actually fixed this piece of junk."

"We are pretty amazing mechanics," Kai chimed in. "Biggest job we ever accomplished. Father would be proud...too bad he can't ever know about this."

Caleb shuddered. "Thanks for that thought. If we're quick, maybe we can make it back to the shop before he realizes our disappearance."

"Certainly can't argue with you there."

"Before you two leave, I truly from the bottom of my heart want to thank you for working so hard all night to repair the shuttle," I said, trying to show just how thankful I really was. "I promise I'll reimburse the cost of the parts to your shop-"

"Whoa, hold up," Caleb interrupted. "We don't want any affiliation to the First Order whatsoever. Just don't worry about the cost."

"I owe Kai and you something though for what you did-"

"We did it out of kindess and you didn't kill us. Fair enough for us."

"And you won't tell Kylo Ren, right?" Kai asked nervously.

I shook my head. "No names will be mentioned, no worries. But I do want to send some credits over. If I can figure out a way to that without it being traced, I really want to pay both of you."

"Just don't link us, please," Caleb begged. "I lost my brother to that monster...I can't lose the rest of my family to him."

"Not to mention we will be wanted by the First Order, as in bounty hunters," Kai added with a shiver. "I don't want to live a life like that."

"Both of you need to relax. No one will know but us of the repair. I won't send the credits if it's too risky. I'm sorry Kylo did what he did to your family, but I promise, as long as I have a say in it, I won't let him bother Abregador-rae ever again."

Kai smiled. "We would greatly appreciate that. Thanks."

After a few short yet meaningful goodbyes, the twins were off, arm around each other's shoulder, proud of their accomplishment. As for me, I need to get back to the hotel to tell Kylo the wonderful news. Though before I embark on this long journey, I need to find the location from here. I leaned over the dashboard as I played with the holographic computer, trying to figure out how to work it so I know exactly where I'm going. I don't remember the route coming over with the boys, and it was so dark it wouldn't matter, so I'm starting back over from the basics. This ought to be fun...

Kylo POV

My shuttle was easy to spot amongst the others ships in the spaceport. Though as I was crossing the platform to reach it, the shuttle suddenly took off and flew into space. I thought that thing was broken! Summer must have found someone to go fix it; she truly does want to leave me behind. I was furious. No, beyond furious. I was...I don't know if there even is a word to describe myself at that moment.

I was thankful I stayed in the spaceport, for around ten minutes later the shuttle returned, parking in the same spot it was in before. I didn't approach it yet, but watched from afar, waiting to see who would disembark. The windshield was tinted so I couldn't tell who was sitting in the cockpit.

Suddenly the hatch was lowered and two twin boys left, looking quite pleased with themselves. I felt a hatred towards them, I don't know why. Not important though, I need to find the traitor.

I walked over to the shuttle and ascended the platform right before it closed, barely making it inside. Someone was clearly still on board for the hatch doesn't close on its own.

My eyes locked on the girl working with the computer in the cockpit. Just seeing her infuriated me even more than I already was. Spotting my lightsaber on her belt, I reached out, using the Force to pull it back into my hands. Now I have the upper hand yet again. Oh I will enjoy this very much...

Summer POV

I felt the lightsaber move from my belt and I turned around to see Kylo standing in the middle of the shuttle, catching the weapon in his hands. What a relief to see him awake again.

"Kylo, you're finally awake! I'm so glad!" I excitedly exclaimed. I do wonder how he got here though...no matter I guess as long as he's here. "I was worried the sleeping powder wasn't going to wear off by morning."

I am so happy to see him...yet he doesn't look as pleased to see me...

"Were you?" he asked, his voice sounding accusing and annoyed.

I crossed my arms, confused by his behavior. "Of course. I was worried sick about you all night. I barely got any sleep. But on the bright side I found some mechanics to fix the shuttle. Hux will be so thrilled to hear of our return to the First Order."

"Oh wonderful," he stated with clear sarcasm. "Thanks for waiting for me."

I raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean 'waiting for you'? Kylo, I thought the drug would leave you too drowsy to do much of anything today so I decided to get the shuttle repaired myself."

"That's not my point."

"I don't know the point you're trying to make."

Kylo's eyes darkened and the death glare was clearly evident. His hand was still gripping the lightsaber hilt, which didn't make me feel any better. I know that look. Something really bad is about to happen and I have a feeling it's going to be directed at me... But I've done nothing wrong. What's his problem?

He started coming towards me, one step at a time. That slow, menacing walk that the villains like to do to scare off their enemies. Well...it's working on me. "You think I have no idea what's going on...what you were planning to do to me..."

I was even more confused than before. "Um...I have no idea what your mind is thinking up but-"

I cut myself off, suddenly got able to breathe, my windpipe feeling like it completely shut. I grabbed my neck and fell to my knees, feeling weak. Kylo was clearly doing this, even though his hands remained right by his side. My deepest condolences to all the Imperial officers who suffered through this daily from Darth Vader.

His eyes drilled into me. "Traitor! You want me out of the picture so you can have control of the galaxy for yourself! And after all I've done for you...how dare you repay me like this!"

Hux never mentioned anything about a side of insanity with the drug. I would defend myself but I currently can't breathe. I choked and sputtered, hoping he plans on releasing me before he takes my life. My face was probably turning different colors now. I pleaded him with my eyes, praying for the slight chance he would sympathize.

Kylo knelt down to my height. "Give me one reason why I shouldn't kill you for your actions."

He clearly sees I can't speak. My mind began to whirl and I felt myself sway, on the verge of death. So this is it. This is how my life ends, at the hands of the man I love. Wow, how cliché. Padme and I will have much to chat about in the next world beyond ours.

Right before my world went dark, my windpipe opened and I inhaled as much air as I could take in. I laid on the floor of the, breathing heavily, still coughing, trying to resupply my body with what it was deprived of. With teared eyes, I looked up at the Dark Knight. "Kylo...I would never betray y-you. I thought there was trust between us. Do you really think I would do something like that?"

He seemed to take my words into consideration, just staring back at me.

I struggled to sit forward, though I didn't attempt standing up. Him and I were eye to eye now. "Look at the way you're acting. You're accusing me of something so terrible. Just take one moment and truly think if what you're doing is correct."

His lip quivered and his eyes watered. "I feel so sure that you are a traitor...the feeling is so strong that I can't be wrong... How can I be? The plot seemed so clear and obvious-"

"Kylo, it's the drug," I nicely interrupted, trying to get through to him. "It is making you think up insane things. You know me Kylo, you see there's still Light within me...you know I have feelings for you." My hand nervously moved over his and he surprisingly let me. Our eyes were locked on each other and I could see he was taking in every word I said. "I will never hurt you."

He breathed out and lowered his head, shutting his eyes, processing my words. I swear I saw a tear fall to the floor. I gave him all the time he needed, knowing the emotional conflict he deals with constantly is enough to drive one mad.

Finally Kylo looked back up at me and spoke so softly that I could barely hear him. "I'm sorry."

I pulled him into a hug as always sign of forgiveness. I could tell this shocked him but I didn't care. He needed this. Just some kind of comfort, even if it's just for a few seconds. Slowly at first, his arms began to wrap around me until they met on my back. I smiled as he laid his head on my shoulder and scooted closer, embracing me. I could almost cry right now, but with joy. Kylo has been so deprived of someone caring about him for so long, that he is just soaking this up like a sponge. It felt good to let him have a moment of peace for once in his life.

I let him be the one to pull away, not knowing how long to hug him. He awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck, not looking directly into my eyes. "My actions...I just assumed..."

I gently lifted his face up, making him look at me. "I forgive you. Everyone makes mistakes."

For a moment I thought he was going to kiss me but instead (much to my disappointment) stood back to his full height, his shadow now towering over me. "This shuttle is repaired, correct?"

I nodded. "Works just like new."

"Then we shouldn't keep the First Order waiting on us any longer." Kylo quickly occupied the pilot's chair. "I'm surprised General Hux hasn't contacted us already."

"He did technically last night while you were out." I sat down beside him in the copilot's seat. "He wanted an estimated time on our return, and after I explained what happened to us, he was only half as impatient as before."

"Half as impatient? Wow, I've only chiseled off a quater before," Kylo exclaimed, pretending to be surprised. His sarcasm was cute. "He must like you."

I nearly laughed. "Oh, Hux hates me, believe me."

"And it better stay that way..." he muttered beneath his breath, probably not intending for me to hear. I bit back a smile, for that proves he still has feelings for me somewhere beneath that brash exterior.

I then realized what he was doing. "Um, Kylo? You're not planning on actually flying with the way your mind is right now, are you?"

"Well, we have to get back to the base sometime." He smirked as he turned on the engines. "Don't worry, this is me we're talking about. My piloting skills are impeccable, as I have previously shown you. Even with my messed up head, everything will be fine."

I swallowed nervously, trembling as I buckled my seat belt. This is going to be one ride I will never want to go on again...

*  *  *  *  *  *

I was very surprised by how well Kylo commanded the shuttle. Now yes, he did make a few mistakes, but fortunately it wasn't anything major enough to make us crash. And as our trip went along, he was starting to come back to normal as the drug was finally wearing off completely. Still, no one was happier than me when we came out of hyperspace and an icy planet was before us.

We entered it and I stared in awe at the majestic, snow-capped mountains with the forests and valleys surrounding them. Snow is something you definitely never see in Florida, so this place seemed surreal to me. Once we passed the mountain ridge, a cleared off area of trees came into view. The Finalizer was parked there (it was weird to see a Star Destroyer on the ground), and small steel structures were in the midst of being built. I suppose this is where the new Starkiller Base would be created.

Kylo noticed my reaction as he directed the shuttle towards the landing area. "You seem quite fond of the scenery."

"I have never seen snow before..." I said, still intrigued by my surroundings. "Florida is too hot and humid for it to happen."

"It doesn't snow on your planet at all? Huh, I thought I read where it does."

"Only in certain areas, but not where I live," I clarified. "Though I wish it does, it's so hot like all the time."

"Well, you certainly won't be hot here, I assure you," he joked and I couldn't help but laugh.

Kylo landed the shuttle perfectly on the platform. Snowtroopers lined up in front of the us, waiting for our departure.

I was about to exit when Kylo stopped me. "We're back with the troops. We need to be fully dressed in proper attire."

I nodded, seeing his point. "Protocol."

"No, we just have to look cooler than everyone else," he replied, chuckling. It was nice to see he did have a sense of humor somewhere in there and knew how to use it.

Within minutes he was back in his original suit, helmet and all. Oh well, the sexy mechanic look was enjoyable while it lasted... As for me, I also layered myself back up but without the armor. Thankfully Kylo was lenient with that.

Now with our menacing attire, we disembarked the shuttle, the Snowtroopers immediately standing at attention. General Hux, wearing a heavy dresscoat, was waiting for us at the end, hands crossed behind his back, having a stare as icy as the snowy ground.

Which by the way...this is the coldest climate I have ever been in. My suit blocked most of it out, and the helmet was temperature controlled, but still...I was cold . From sweating on Jakku to freezing on...whatever planet this is. So much fun. What lovely planets the galaxy has to offer...

"This is quite a surprise," Hux proclaimed, though not sounding surprised at all. "Summer estimated your return date within the week."

"We can leave if you wish," Kylo threatened, his voice once again deep and electronic through his mask. It was as scary as it was sexy. "And we will take the part you so desperately need with us."

"Don't get defensive. Just making a statement," Hux said, returning fire. "Where's the part?"

I handed him Trace's satchel. "The thermostat is in here."

He took it from me and glanced inside, probably checking because he doesn't trust me. Satisfied with his findings, he waved an officer over. "Take this to the workers immediately."

"Yes, sir."

Hux started walking away into Finalizer, demanding Kylo and I to keep up with him if we wanted to speak with him further. Jerk. "You two did actually return at a good time. A fierce blizzard just passed. Thankfully only minimal damage was done and we weren't put far behind schedule with repairs and construction of the new base."

"Excellent. I could use some good news," Kylo replied, having no trouble at all staying in sync with Hux. He even stayed a few steps ahead, which clearly annoyed the general. It soon turned out to be a battle of who could lead the other until I drove myself in between them, ending the dispute.

"The sleeping powder has worn off, as I see," Hux said, eyeing the Dark Knight, making sure he wasn't trying to pass him again, even with me here. "You're quite energetic."

"I'm not sure if understand your point, General."

"Well, you seem to like to walk in my way-"

Kylo stopped, not so gently forced me aside to get in the general's face. I was stupid to think I could ever end their feud. "Shall I get rid of my energy for you? I have a suggestion..." He went for his lightsaber and I stopped him, holding back his arm. He harshly jerked himself out of my grip then grabbed my arm, yanking me close enough to where our masks nearly collided. "Do not interfere." He pushed me away then marched off, leaving me alone with Hux.

The general walked up to me, glancing at my arm. "Hurt?" Like he actually cares.

I shook my head, wanting to appear tough even though the muscle was throbbing. "I'm fine."

"It's just bruised probably."

"Whatever."

Hux eyed me, not liking my attitude. "I really could care less about your injury, but I thought I would be courteous and ask. Excuse me."

"Alright, sorry," I replied defensively. "It's just you don't like me and your act of concern was a surprise to me."

He shrugged. "Well, that is true. I'm not fond of you at all."

I glared at him (forgetting he couldn't see it because of my mask) before walking away. "Likewise."

I went down a corridor and glanced back, noticing Hux was following. I didn't stop, wanting him to keep up with me instead of the other way around. "Need something, General Hux?

"Do you?" he retaliated. "This is my ship. I can walk where I please. If we happen to choose the same path, it is only coincidental."

I rolled my eyes, knowing he was just going to bother me like a itch that can't be scratched. No wonder why Kylo and him bang heads so often.

Using a mesmerized route, I entered the cafeteria, my stomach begging for food, and definitely something more substantial than snacks from a hotel room. Hux still followed me inside. Now he was getting annoying. Most of the time I can tolerate him, but now he's pushing it.

I pretended not to notice him as I made myself a plate from the buffet bar then sat down at a nearby empty table. It must be an off hour (I had no idea what time it was but it was past morning, judging by the food) because there were only a few officers in here, and by the bars on their uniforms, were of high rank.

And of course, just because it has to be, Hux approached me with a tray in his hands. He motioned to the seat across from me. "May I?"

Seriously, this whole place is practically empty but he must sit at the same table as mine. I faked a smile, being polite. "Sure." Keep your friends close and your enemies closer, isn't that how the saying goes?

Neither of us spoke through the meal, which came unexpected to me, because I thought for sure Hux would have chatted my ear off. But no, he remained silent, quietly enjoying meal and for once not constantly checking his datapad for work updates. This has to be an imposter.

"So about before," Hux said once he finished his plate, breaking the silence. I was nearly completed with mine but paused to give him my attention. "Suppose I owe you thanks, even though I can handle myself. Ren doesn't frighten me and he knows it, which is why he tends to be more ruthless around me. You're lucky he didn't hack off your arm."

"And you're lucky you still have your head," I countered. "He was going for his lightsaber. His intention was to kill. If I didn't intervene, he might have ended your life."

"Yes, but your interference nearly costed you yours." That couldn't possibly be sympathy in his voice. What the heck was in the food he ate and why I am also eating it? "But still, you have my gratitude."

I smiled, appreciating his thanks. "Your welcome, Hux."

"Do also know that I still dislike you and wish you were left behind on Abregado-rae," Hux said as he stood up. There's the sassy, First Order general I know. "Get some ice. It will help you feel better. I have to get back to work."

"I will, thanks," I replied, having forgotten it was even hurting to begin with. And now since I'm thinking about the pain is flooding back...ow...

Kylo POV

"Your apprentice executed all of those actions?" Snoke inquired, sounding as equally concerned as me.

"Yes, Supreme Leader," I replied.

I recalled everything that happened on our trip (from what I remembered from it) to get the thermostat, from stopping on Jakku and encountering the Jedi, to making a forced landing on Abregado-rae. What I wanted to talk to him about over everything else was how Summer wielded my lightsaber exceptionally well and used the Force to pull the flatboat across the lake.

Snoke rubbed his scarred chin. "If what you say is true, that this girl has used the Force, as well as your weapon, without any training yet from you, then she must know how to wield them from someone. Things can be self-taught, but from what she did, this is more than practicing to move a ball or swing a sword. This is greatly disturbing, for this means she may be an undercover Jedi."

I knew he would jump to the worst, and I must say I can't blame him. It seems much too suspicious. "She did feel a call to the Dark Side. Using her anger, she defeated the pirates attacking me. That could have brought out her inner power."

Snoke crossed his hands. "Perhaps so. But possibly that was for some other reason..."

The way he stared at me made me look away for a moment. He was trying to read me, bring out the truth, but I didn't let him. My mask gave me an excuse to avoid his gaze and never have I felt so thankful to wear this heavy hunk of metal on my head.

"When you picked her up on earth, there was no evidence she had been trained, correct?"

I nodded the best that I could with my helmet. "Yes. To my understanding, she didn't even know she had the power within her."

Snoke eyed me. "Did she? Perhaps it was a facade to lure her into the First Order so she could spy, such as for those Jedi on Jakku, whom we need to take care of."

"I suggest bounty hunters," I said, trying to shrug off that subject for now. "But more importantly, what am I to do with Darth Shadow?"

"Keep an eye on her Kylo Ren. If she is trained, then she may be dangerous."

"Her powers do not exceed mine," I boasted. "She may try to fight me, but will fail miserably."

"Did she not already resist your mind probing?"

He had to throw that back at me... "True, but-"

"That seems to be happening to you a lot lately." Did he really have to go that far? "Perhaps more training of your own is needed."

I sighed, seeing that coming. "As you wish, Supreme Leader."

"I will be gone for the next few days with the Knights of Ren, but when I return I expect greater news about the girl. If not...then she must go."

I nodded, knowing exactly what "go" meant. "Yes, Supreme Leader."

The hologram fizzled out and I was left alone in the room, my thoughts echoing in my mind as my words reverberated off the walls minutes before.

Summer POV

After the events of yesterday, especially with the shuttle repairs last night, I didn't mind retreating to Kylo's room sooner than usual, my body demanding sleep. A quick stop in the refresher and I hit the bed, dozing off quickly and easily. And I didn't wake up until a certain someone laid down next to me.

I pretended I was still alseep, just barely peaking my eye open to look at Kylo. This was more of a cautious act, knowing he still might be mad from before. But a gaze at that body certainly wasn't something to pass up.

Kylo sighed, just lying there on his back, his left leg dangling off the bed. His arm was across his forehead and his eyes were shut, though at first glance I could tell he was stressed out.

I debated if I should speak. It could lead more to my own self destruction than aid to him. Though I decided to anyway.

"Kylo?" I asked in a whisper, not wanting to wake him in case he somehow fell asleep.

I got a moan for a reply. There was no surprise or curiosity in his tone. He probably knew he woke me up as soon as he touched the bed.

"About earlier...are you still angry at me?" I am inquiring about this so sweetly that there is no possible way he could retaliate harshly. Heck, I'm forgetting who I'm dealing with here.

His opened his brown eyes and looked over at me. His voice was thankfully calm but still stern. "You didn't need to intervene. If I reprimand any officer, or prisoner, or enemy, or...whoever...unless I ask or motion for your input, stay out of it. The conversation is between me and the other person, not you. And I don't ever want to reiterate this to you again, am I clear?"

I nodded shamefully. "Yes...master."

I called him that purposely, for that seemed to imperceptibly perk him up. He would fight off the smile, but he couldn't stop his eyes from beaming with pride for a brief moment. He liked hearing me say that to him, for whatever reason it may be.

"Good. Now get some sleep. General Hux is calling a meeting first thing tomorrow morning to plan a strike on D'Qar."

My breath caught in my throat and my eyes widened. I completely forgot about that...

Kylo pulled the covers up and rolled over, giving me his back. "If we're planning on eating breakfast before the meeting, which I highly suggest because we may be in there a while, then we have to get up another hour earlier to make sure we will be ready."

I swallowed back nerves. "But...I'm not of any rank in the First Order. Why are you bringing me?"

"Because you know where Skywalker is located, so we need your knowledge. Nothing you need to worry about right now, just go to sleep."

Right. Sleep is the farthest thing from my mind right now; I'm wide awake.

I finally did fall asleep, within the next hour or so, but I did so while thinking of how to get of going tomorrow, because if Luke is ever to be hunted down and killed...

I don't want to be the one responsible for it happening.

>  >  >  >  >  >  >  >

Chapter 9 has arrived! A bit later than I wanted it to be since I was ill, but better late than never, right? :)

As always, a thank you to everyone for the constant support. *virtual hugs* <3

Comments are always welcome! I love hearing from you! If you liked this story, please share it, I want everyone to enjoy it :)

Pics of the chapter: the first one is just cool yet creepy, with Kylo crouched down in a fighting position in a forest we all know he destroyed. And the second is amazing artwork I found on Instagram. A close-up of his grasp on the lightsaber, but the detail is incredible. :)