Shadow Desires

Chapter 3

The next day, I met Captain Phasma at the training grounds. The space was vast, filled with rows of stormtroopers running drills and sparring. The air was filled with the clamor of weapons clashing and orders being shouted.

Phasma stood tall, her chrome armor gleaming under the artificial lights.

"Captain (Y/N)," she called out, her voice carrying across the training grounds.

I approached her, my posture straight and confident.

"Today, you'll be joining me in leading the stormtroopers through their combat exercises. It's important they see you not just as a figure of authority, but as someone who can fight alongside them." I nodded.

"Understood, Captain. What's the plan?"

Phasma motioned towards a group of troopers who were standing in formation.

"We're running a series of close-quarters combat drills, followed by a tactical exercise simulating an enemy incursion. I want you to lead the first group through the drills. Observe their techniques, correct them where needed, and show them how it's done."

I took a deep breath, nodding again. "Got it. I'll give them my best."

Phasma's eyes, though hidden behind her helmet, seemed to bore into me, evaluating my resolve. "Remember, Captain, they will follow you if they respect you. Show no hesitation. Lead with strength."

I stepped towards the group of stormtroopers, my heart pounding.

"Troopers!" I called out, my voice steady. They all snapped to attention, their helmets turning towards me.

"Today, we will be focusing on close-quarters combat. I want precision, strength, and discipline. I expect nothing less than your full effort. Understood?"

"Yes, Captain!" they responded in unison, their voices echoing through the training grounds.

"Good," I said, gesturing for them to begin.

I moved among them, watching their movements, correcting their stances, and demonstrating techniques when necessary. At first, I could sense their skepticism, but as I threw myself into the exercises alongside them—sparring, taking hits, and giving orders—I could feel a shift.

They began to respond, their movements sharper, their respect growing. Captain Phasma watched from a distance, her stance rigid, her arms crossed.

After a particularly intense drill, she approached, nodding in approval.

"Not bad, Captain. You handled yourself well. The troopers are starting to see you as one of their own. Keep this up, and they'll follow you without question."

I wiped the sweat from my brow, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

"Thank you, Captain. I won't let them down." Phasma gave a small nod.

"Good. Tomorrow, we'll move on to tactical exercises. Be prepared."

I nodded, watching as she walked away. Turning back to the troopers, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. This was where I belonged, and I would prove myself—not just to the First Order, but to myself as well.