𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙎𝙀𝘾𝙍𝙀𝙏𝙎 𝙊𝙁 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙃𝙔𝘽𝙍𝙄𝘿, clone wars ²

Shadows and Sisterhood

I was jolted awake by a persistent knocking at my door. It had become a regular occurrence — whether it was my master knocking or Anakin, or sometimes even both. Occasionally, the clones joined in on the chaos.

The truth is, I hardly ever get a moment of quietude for myself, but I'm not here to complain — at least not right now.

During my apprenticeship under Count Dooku, I spent a lot of time alone. It's comforting to know that I'm not as solitary anymore.

I pushed off the covers and let the blanket slip from my strong frame, feeling the cool air against my skin. Just a shawl draped over me, I made my way toward the door, gripping a blade in my hand. I knew Anakin had feelings for me, and seeing me in a state of undress wouldn't do anything to quell his need to be close.

As I opened the door, I was greeted by Obi-Wan and Anakin, both scanning me with surprise. A flush of crimson crept up their cheeks, but they maintained their composure.

"Nyx, Anakin and I have been sent by the council to investigate a new threat," Obi-Wan said, his tone steady with arms crossed.

My heart sank at the prospect of once again facing an unknown adversary.

"Who is it?" I inquired, dread creeping into my voice.

Obi-Wan activated a hologram that illuminated a Zabrak with a glowing axe.

"We believe this is a new incarnation of Count Dooku's efforts, following the disappearance or death of his former apprentice, Ventress," Anakin explained, his expression serious.

As I chuckled, I said, "What an idiot he's become."

"Meet me in the hangar; I'll be there shortly," I instructed, turning to close the door behind them.

Anakin glanced at his friend with a sly grin. "Was it just me, or did you notice how Nyx was dressed?" He shivered as if recalling the sight.

Obi-Wan jumped slightly, playfully jabbing Anakin in the chest. "Keep those thoughts to yourself, Anakin; I don't need them cluttering my mind. And yes, I noticed—she's stunning. But try to keep your pants on." He turned and headed toward the hangar, adding, "Come on now."

Back in my quarters, I held a small title pin, breathing it in as I connected with its weight.

Men.

I quickly slipped into something more practical for a mission. I donned a fitted black tank top, its fabric soft against my skin, paired with layers of intricately designed necklaces that jingled slightly as I moved—a subtle reminder of my identity in the chaos of war.

With a steely resolve, I stepped out into the corridor, where I found Rex waiting for me, his armor reflecting the dim lights of the ship. "Rex," I greeted, and the loyal captain nodded his head in a respectful gesture, his eyes sharp and vigilant.

"General Skywalker and Kenobi are waiting for you in the hangar. We need to move," he said, urgency lacing his tone.

Together, we traversed the bustling hallways of the Venator-class Star Destroyer, passing clone troopers stationed at their posts. Each one offered a nod or a salute, their voices echoing in unison. I shook my head, trying to quell the strange mix of admiration and disbelief.

Everything feels surreal, I thought, feeling the pulse of the Force around me, a gentle hum that mirrored the quickened heartbeats of my comrades.

As we reached the hangar bay, the massive doors slid open with a mechanical hiss. Inside, Anakin and Obi-Wan stood before one of the Republic's sleek ARC-170 starfighters, deep in discussion with Commander Cody. The glow of the hangar lights illuminated their familiar silhouettes against the backdrop of the starship.