Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"If the fusion generator on a Sorosuub Class 2 hyperdrive fails to ignite, what's the most likely culprit?" the voice queried.

"I have no idea."

Sitting on the floor with his back pressed to the wall, his head slightly tilted toward the ceiling, and his eyes closed, Hux was disinclined to engage the speaker.

"You do," the voice insisted.

A sigh. "Then I simply do not care." And he didn’t. Pulling his mind from its almost perpetual haziness felt like too much effort at the moment. 

"Well, I do. Tell me," the voice insisted, "what's more likely to be at fault - the charge planes, the effect channels, or the superconducting wires?" At Hux's continued silence, the voice became impatient and added, "stop acting like a laserbrain and answer the question."

At the insult, Hux opened his eyes and looked in the direction of the voice. It wasn't that the name-calling bothered him. He was quite used to that from her. He simply enjoyed the frustrated look on her face when he was being uncooperative. If he was lucky, she might even stomp her foot in vexation.

Sure enough, Rose Tico stood a few feet away with her arms crossed in front of her chest and an impatient little foot tapping on the floor. She reminded him of an angry ewok like this.

Another sigh. "There's no point to this," he complained as he closed his eyes again.

"There is. You have to think, Hux," Rose insisted. "If you don't use your mind, you'll lose it."

"I would argue that I already have."

"Worthless," a new but unfortunately familiar voice interjected. "Pathetic."

"Don't listen to him, Hux. Focus on me. Which hyperdrive part do you check first?"

"Useless."

"Hux."

"Enough. None of the above. You know as well as I that the issue is most likely with the alluvial dampers."

He looked back to find Rose beaming at him like a proud teacher. "See, you're not a dummy. Now tell me the steps for testing the dampers."

Before Hux could complain or answer the question, a noise from the corridor caught his attention. Despite his lethargy, he glanced towards the door in some surprise. This was not part of his typical schedule. Perplexed, he turned back to Rose only to find that she had vanished.

He was once again alone in his cell. 

As he had always been.

Hux sat there for a moment attempting to harness his thoughts and to recall whether he was due for his yard time - a misnomer as no yard was actually involved. He didn't think it was a shower day. It wasn't time for his rations either, though the perpetual brightness of his cell made it difficult to judge the hour. And he had not been called to any interrogations in some time. Before he could summon the energy for any educated guesses for the schedule change, the cell door slid open.

"Up. Arms out front," ordered the guard who entered the cell holding restraints. A second guard stayed just outside as he pointed his blaster at Hux. It was not set to stun.

"Why?" Hux asked, resigned, as he braced against the wall and stood stiffly, allowing himself to be cuffed. He didn't expect an answer and was unsurprised when none was forthcoming. He had learned very quickly in his incarceration that the guards here at Sunspot Prison would not respond to him outside of the barest commands. He neither knew nor cared whether this was by choice or order. Either way, it meant he often went weeks without anyone speaking to him. 

Except for Rose Tico. 

And, sometimes, him.

"Move," was the guard's only response as he gestured for Hux to follow the second guard. Aware of the futility of disobedience, he did as instructed. As they moved through the space station's corridors, Hux's gait sluggish and awkward, he began to suspect that the Coalition had sent yet another interrogator. The guards were leading him to the room he recalled from previous attempts.

Hux didn't know why they persisted when he continually met their questions with silence. When the interrogations first began, while Hux still lay injured in a cot, he explained his demands. When those were denied, Hux simply declined to answer any further questions. He had maintained that stubborn silence for every subsequent interrogation. Even when the frustrated interrogators and guards became more forceful with their questions. 

He was not even sure why they persisted. Isolation had left him muddled - unable to focus his mind. And the number of years surely made his prior tactical knowledge obsolete. 

Entering the room, however, Hux did not see the anticipated Coalition negotiator. Interrogator? Same thing in his experience. Instead, he came to an abrupt halt just inside the room when he saw two familiar, and quite unwelcome, faces.

"What is this?" he demanded. 

Dameron, standing near the far wall, simply glanced at Hux before motioning to the guards. At his gesture, the guards pushed Hux forward and then down into a chair in front of the table.

"Thanks. You can go," said FN-2187 from his seat across the table.

As soon as the door slid closed behind the guards, the former Stormtrooper turned to him. "Hux, it's been a while…" he started with, what appeared to Hux, a look of sympathy.

Hux knew he was a prisoner, but he would not tolerate being viewed as a weakling that required pity or understanding. Particularly not from a former trooper assigned to sanitation. “Indeed," he interrupted in his most arrogant tone. "I do not believe I have seen either of you since I saved your lives aboard the Steadfast.  Almost four years ago now, isn't it?" he snidely asked.

The trooper appeared abashed as he briefly looked down and mumbled something. 

"Pardon? I didn't quite hear you, FN-2187."

At this, Dameron stepped forward and angrily interjected, speaking over the trooper as he repeated his answer.

"His name is Finn!"

"Closer to five."

For a moment, Hux found it difficult to believe that he had lost track of that much time. But isolation, he knew, could do strange things to the mind. 

"Well, time does fly. And speaking of time, I am afraid that the Coalition has wasted yours. I have no more to say to you than I had to any of your predecessors. I made my conditions clear," he reminded them. "The Coalition is even more incompetent than I anticipated if they thought sending you two would convince me."

"Trust me, asshole, we don't want to be here either," Dameron complained as he took several steps towards Hux. "If there had been any other choice-"

"Poe, stop. We don't have time for this," interjected FN-2187 calmly but forcefully.  He then turned back to Hux. "We need your help on a mission. I can't share any operational details with you until we have your formal agreement to assist us. I can only tell you two things. The mission will require your temporary release from Sunspot. And, if successfully completed, you will receive a full pardon for your acts on behalf of the First Order during the war. We just need your agreement," he finished as he gestured to the datapad on the table.

"No."

"What?!" FN-2187 looked incredulous.

Hux took a moment to relish in the man's disbelief as well as the rare opportunity to make a choice. To have control. He refused to acknowledge the whispers in his head that told him he would be useless on any kind of a mission anyway in his current state.

Pathetic.

"This is a literal get-out-of-jail-free card," the trooper continued  "You would rather stay here and rot than do something decent for once in your life?"

There had only ever been one decent thing in Hux's life, he thought.

"I have previously stated my conditions for any cooperation with your government. Nothing has changed. If that is all, the guards may return me to my cell."

FN-2187 turned to look at Dameron with a question in his eyes. "Poe, we're running out of time," he pleaded. "It's the only way."

"Fine."

Turning to Hux, the trooper stated, "We'll meet your condition. Rose Tico will also be on this mission."

Hux examined the men's faces, looking for any indicators of deception. Dameron simply appeared angry while FN-2187's expression seemed to be pleading for Hux to agree.

"Where do I sign?"

With a relieved sigh, FN-2187 pushed the datapad and stylus across the table toward Hux. His restraints made the process somewhat awkward, but after a perfunctory scan, he quickly signed the electronic form.

No sooner had he lifted the stylus from the datapad screen than Dameron was stepping toward the table and snatching up the device. "Let's go," he insisted. "We have no time."

As Hux stood, he had to brace his hands on the table as a wave of dizziness hit him. His leg also reacted poorly to the abrupt movement. Once steady, he straightened to his typical upright, military stance.

"Can you do this, Hux?" Dameron snapped. "If you're not mission ready, you're no good to us. I repeat, can you do this?" 

While Dameron appeared anxious and impatient, a glance toward FN-2187 showed the man calmly but critically taking a visual inventory of Hux. He almost sneered when the trooper's scan paused on Hux's left leg.

Instead, he simply responded to Dameron. "If the operation is time sensitive, we should proceed." In reality, Hux couldn't care less about the supposed mission and its objectives or whether he would even be able to contribute. It was simply a means to an end for him.

Dameron stepped forward and grasped Hux's upper arm as he escorted him from the interview room. FN-2187 followed behind with his blaster out and pointed directly at the General's back. Hux did his best to minimize his limp as they walked through the orbiting prison. He refused to give anyone, least of all Dameron, the satisfaction of seeing any weakness, physical or otherwise.

After several corridors and guard stations, which required Dameron and FN-2187 to show their credentials, it appeared they were nearing the docking bay. Just then, Hux heard hurried footsteps and turned to see Sunspot's warden approaching quickly from an adjacent hallway. Hux had only seen him up close twice during his years at the prison, and he certainly had no respect for the mousy little man in the ill-fitted uniform with the greasy comb-over. 

Dameron tugged on his arm, urging Hux to walk faster. "Come on, Hugs. Hurry up. We need to get out of here," he insisted quietly. Hux could clearly hear the note of desperation and anxiety in Dameron's voice. 

"General Dameron! General Finn! Wait! Wait!" the warden called. "There are procedures, gentlemen. You can't just waltz out the door with this war criminal!"

It was the former trooper who turned back toward the warden. A quick glance back showed that he had stopped in front of the man and was essentially blocking his pursuit. "Warden Zalik, you've got the necessary approvals from the Security Bureau, and you've been informed that this is a classified operation. I must insist that you not interfere - it would be frowned upon by the Coalition, sir, I assure you."

By the time FN-2187 had finished his officious little speech, Dameron and Hux had arrived at the docking bay entrance. Dameron ordered the final guards to remove Hux's binders. The guard looked nervously towards the warden who reluctantly nodded his head in consent.

"Thanks. We have binders and restraints on the shuttle for the prisoner," Dameron assured the guard as he unlocked the binders. At that, the pilot once again grasped Hux's arm and urged him forward. 

Dameron tugged more insistently on his arm when Hux stumbled, and his only option was to keep moving as they hurried towards a Coalition shuttle. 

"Poe, man, this is a dangerous game," FN-2187 warned as he caught up to them.

"We couldn't afford to wait, Finn. You know that!" 

Just as Dameron replied, another Coalition ship passed through the station's magnetic field and into the hangar.

Dameron and FN-2187 exchanged worried looks before they began to almost run toward the parked shuttle, dragging Hux along with them. In fact, Dameron released Hux and sprinted toward the ship yelling back, "I'll start her up. Get him on board fast. We gotta move!"

Between his sluggishness and bad leg, Hux was doing his best to stay upright and move forward. He felt the trooper's hand on his back urging him to hurry. A few more meters and they were stumbling into the shuttle. 

FN-2187 immediately slammed the panel to close the hatch and yelled, "Go, go!" toward the cockpit. Hux was not braced for takeoff and found himself falling to the floor as they clumsily lifted off.

Before he could complain or insult Dameron's flying skills, FN-2187 was rushing to the cockpit. "Sit down and strap in, Hux! We'll be jumping as soon as we clear the field."

Instead of heeding the order, Hux simply laid down on the shuttle floor. He was dizzy and in pain and in no shape to move just yet. He also needed a moment to try and understand what had just happened. 

Did those two buffoons just break him out of prison? Hux found that idea simply too outlandish to accept. So why the rush? Why the effort to avoid the other Coalition representatives in the second shuttle? Honestly, he was too tired to unravel these idiots' motivations just now. So long as they took him to her , he could be patient and wait. 

Force help them if they lied about that, however. 

Hux soon felt the ship jitter as it made the jump to hyperspace. Shortly after, the trooper returned to the cabin whereupon he stopped and looked down at Hux in confusion. Hux glared up at him as he was forced to admit, "I cannot stand on my own with this leg." 

He relished the look of guilt that immediately flashed across FN-2187's face. It made it only slightly easier for Hux to accept the hand that the trooper held out in an offer of assistance. After Hux was standing, FN-2187 pointed to a bag sitting on one of the cabin's seats. "There's a change of clothes in the bag. More suitable for travel than your prison uniform, although the pants may be too short. But we don't want to advertise your convict status at our destination."

Before Hux could stop himself, he sneered, "convict implies that you have been convicted at a trial. Which means that there has been a trial. Therefore, that term does not actually apply to me, does it?" Hux refused to break eye contact with the trooper for several moments until he finally had to ask the only question that mattered. "Where is she?"

Not needing any clarification, FN-2187 replied, "she's waiting at our designated meet up. We'll brief the mission when we get there," before turning back to the cockpit.

Hux scooped up the bag and limped towards the fresher. Once there, he took a moment to assess his appearance in the mirror over the sink. He had not been allowed to have one in the prison, so it had been years since he had seen himself. His hair was long, almost touching his shoulders and his beard had not been trimmed in some time. The guards took care of these tasks every so often, but their efforts were random and capricious. 

Hux had always been pale, but he seemed almost translucent now. His eyes were red rimmed and tired. He appeared to have aged a decade. He briefly wondered whether she would be disgusted by his appearance before he forced those thoughts out.

Hux did not wish to think about Rose Tico at the moment. His feelings about seeing her were too conflicted. Instead, he opened the bag and found an off-white shirt and a brown leather jacket as well as a pair of brown pants and some boots. None of it would have ever been selected by him, but it was certainly better than his prison togs.

The pants were short, as predicted, but luckily the boots were high enough that the cuffs could be tucked in. The exertion once again made him dizzy and he was forced to lean against the counter. He found himself shifting his weight from his bad leg and rubbing the ache in his chest. The pain finally convinced him to exit the fresher and find a seat in the cabin.

FN-2187 returned just as Hux was strapping himself to one of the cabin's benches. "Five hours," he supplied before Hux could pose the question. "You look like you could use some rest. I'll let you know when we get close," he said before turning back, once again, to the cockpit.

Hux couldn't prevent himself from taunting the former trooper. "No binders? No restraints for the dangerous prisoner?"

FN-2187 paused his stride and glanced back before answering, "she wouldn't like that." 

Hux pondered that response as the trooper moved off. Wouldn't she? In truth, he didn't know. He hadn't seen or truly spoken with her since before that ridiculous mission with Ren and Pryde to Mustafar. Once that rotting corpse of an Emperor had declared himself back from the dead, it had become too dangerous for their covert meetings. Hux had suspected that he was being watched more closely. He was certain that his belongings were searched numerous times. In-person meet ups would have placed her in more danger, so they had relied on coded messages and dead drops those last weeks. 

And then he was shot. 

And shot again. 

And then he escaped the First Order only to be captured and thrown in prison by the nascent Coalition. 

He hadn't heard from her once in all this time. She was supposed to be his handler. His advocate. His…. 

He refused to even think about the other aspects of their interactions. Their relationship. He couldn't bear to do so. Because Rose Tico had simply washed her hands of him and walked away. 

And part of him congratulated her for it.

Hux himself had spent the last years, apparently five, trying to understand how he ended up a prisoner. Where exactly had his life's trajectory veered toward that endpoint? Was it when Mercurial Swift rescued him and his father from Arkanis? When he encountered Gallius Rax or when he made his childish bargain with Grand Admiral Sloane? His father's beatings? His father's murder? Was it Starkiller, or Snoke, or Ren, or Pryde? Palpatine's obnoxious return? 

Or was it when a feral rebel bit his hand? 

He spent hours, days, analyzing these questions. There was, after all, nothing else to occupy his mind in that cell. His conclusion was always the same. Rose Tico was the fulcrum. The pivot point that changed his direction.

And the reason he was in prison. 

He leaned back and closed his eyes, unsure whether he could sleep, thoughts of Rose racing through his mind. Even now, he could feel the effects of the prison sedatives diminishing in his system. He needed to have a clear head when he faced her, he thought.

"Wakey, wakey, Hugs." Hux opened his eyes to find Dameron standing over him and nudging him with his foot. Although he was sneering at Hux, he could still see worry in the pilot's eyes. For a moment, Hux thought he could even see a flash of guilt before Dameron turned abruptly to return to the cockpit. "We're coming out of hyperspace in five. Get ready."

Hux glared at Dameron's back. Get ready? What, exactly, did that fool expect him to prepare? He had been given no weapons and doubted that he would be for the foreseeable future. He had the clothes on his back, and they weren't even his. 

He was as prepared as one could be after being pulled from isolation after five years for an unspecified mission with his former…what? He didn't know how to finish that sentence.  Hux only knew that, in his current condition, the wisest strategy was to remain aware and observant. As for being ready for Rose Tico?

He was not so foolish as to even try.

Little time had passed when Hux felt the shuttle land. A moment later, Dameron and FN-2187 emerged into the cabin. As they headed for the hatch, the former trooper tossed a cloak at Hux. "Wear that and keep the hood up. It's doubtful that you would be recognized here, but we can't take any chances."

"Where are we exactly?" Hux demanded. 

He had been told virtually nothing during his incarceration. No answers to any questions. For a man like Hux, who compulsively collected information, it had been a very effective form of torture. He would not tolerate having anyone keep information from him in the future. 

"Eriadu port," FN-2187 openly answered.  "We need to transfer over to a private ship we secured for this mission. The others should already be waiting on board."

Hux refrained from asking why they needed a private ship. He needed to know nothing more than that Rose was on that ship. 

Eriadu was a very busy Outer Rim port due to its proximity to several trade routes and hyperspace lanes. As such, they would be anonymous travelers in a very large crowd. Hux pulled on the cloak and raised the hood before following the two men out into the busy port.

Hux was immediately struck by the noise. After years of solitary confinement and hearing few voices but his own, the cacophony from the crowd was jarring and headache-inducing. Hux broke out into a cold sweat and began to feel dizzy and disoriented. He noticed FN-2187 glance back at him and then murmur something to Dameron. The two men slowed until Hux caught up with them. Once there, they began walking again while each flanked a side. Hux wanted to snap that he didn't need to be coddled, but the truth was that his limp was impossible to hide at this point, and he was lightheaded. He wasn't sure whether the prison sedatives were still affecting him or whether it had simply been too long since he had eaten or drank. Thankfully, they soon reached an entrance to a private hangar, and  Dameron paused to enter a code into the keypad.

Inside was a space yacht that could have rivaled the Imperialis in luxury. It was a SoroSuub 3000, a massive luxury yacht at around 50 meters long. Hux immediately noted several modifications including an ion cannon turret and two external engine pods. This ship was fast and armed.

A young blonde woman stood at the top of the yacht's boarding ramp gesturing for the men to keep moving. "You made it. Come on. We need to take off." At that, she turned and disappeared back into the ship.

The men followed, although Dameron and FN-2187 had to slow down several times to accommodate Hux's uneven gait. Once on board, Dameron closed the ramp, while FN-2187 led Hux to the seating in what appeared to be an eating area in the main cabin. Hux was relieved to rest his leg and catch his breath, as he sat at one of the two tables available. FN-2187 joined him, while Dameron moved toward the corridor. "I'll check in with the bridge."

"No, Kaydel's taking us out." Hux had not heard that voice, outside of his imagination, in years.

Hux turned and there she was. Coming out of the galley with a mug clutched in front of her.

"Rose." Her name slipped quietly from his lips. He despised how hopeful that one word had sounded.  Hope, he knew, was a vulnerability. A weakness.

Rose Tico had been his hope.

Everything in the galaxy has a weakness, Commander. 

"Hux."

No one said anything else as the former spy and handler appraised each other. Looking for changes. Looking for the familiar. She was as beautiful as he remembered. Physically, she seemed much the same, though with longer hair and no Resistance uniform. He hated to even consider what she made of his appearance. 

While her physical form was little changed, there was something quite different about her. It was, he thought, the way she held herself.  Even nervous, as she clearly was, Rose seemed to have a presence that she hadn't before. He had the strange thought that her gravitational pull had shifted. Become stronger. Hux would know -- he had always been drawn to her.

But he did not trust her, he reminded himself. He was angry at her. He had been hurt by her.

He was only here to see her and demand reparation for her abandonment. 

He was only here to see her.

He was only here for her.

"So who talks first?" Dameron interrupted their silent regard with a nervous laugh. 

Hux watched as Rose abruptly turned to the pilot. Anger flashed across her face as she spat, "that has never been funny. Now sit down, Poe. We need answers and we need to plan. Kaydel is waiting for the coordinates."

At that, she looked back toward Hux. He could see that Rose was trying to appear stoic, but she never did have a good sabbac face. It was her eyes. They always gave her away. And right now, he could see that she was wary and fearful. Uncertain. Possibly desperate. 

He wanted to take delight in her fear. Her anxiety. But he could not. 

Even after she sat down across from Hux, he could see that her posture was tense. And she held herself still. The Rose of his memory was rarely still -- always fidgeting, tapping, tinkering. This Rose appeared caught on the cusp of her fight-or-flight response -- poised to run or prepared to fight. Of course, the Rose he knew always chose 'fight.'

Was she worried about his reaction to her? Or that he wouldn't cooperate? 

Determined to show her and the other two that he was unaffected by her presence, he spoke. "Brief me on the mission. What are the objectives?"

Truthfully, he didn't care. 

Means to an end. 

Rose glanced at Dameron and, again, Hux could see the anger she was clearly trying to suppress simmering just under the surface. 

"We need your First Order engineering files. All of them. Where are they and how do we access them?" Dameron's tone was abrupt and belligerent.

Hux looked to Rose before answering. She was silently regarding him and sat unmoving with her hands clutching the mug in front of her in a death grip. Hux realized she wasn't preparing to fight but was desperately trying to keep herself from fighting.

Even in his muddled state, Hux could sense something was happening below the surface between Rose and Dameron. He intended to discover the source of that tension. He also needed to determine exactly what they knew before deciding on his next course of action. 

The simple fact that they believed he had the files meant that events had not unfolded as he had planned. 

"Pray tell, what files? I am unclear as to which engineering files you are referring, Dameron." 

"Cut it out with the games, Hux, or we'll dump you right back where we found you," Dameron threatened. "Your weapons' designs. We know you kept the data files for all your First Order engineering projects and ideas, past and future."

"And just how do you know that?" Hux questioned. Very few people, in fact, did know that.

"I told them, sir."

Startled, Hux quickly scanned the area for the source of that voice. Standing in the corridor, he found yet another well-known  face. Stars, this was turning into a kriffing reunion. "Mitaka?"

"It's...good...to see you again, General," Mitaka hesitantly replied as he slowly walked into the room.

For the first time in quite a while, Hux found himself pleasantly surprised. His last meeting with the lieutenant had been just before those Resistance idiots had infiltrated the Steadfast and set off the alarms in their quest to save the Wookie. Ironically, he and Mitaka had just been devising a plan to help the Wookie escape. Instead of a careful strategy, though, the rebels had boarded with blasters firing only to be caught and in need of rescue themselves. 

Hux hadn't known what happened to the lieutenant -- whether he managed to escape and survive -- and was gratified to see him again. Had he defected and joined the Resistance or been recruited by the Coalition?

"You serve the Coalition, Lieutenant?"

"No, sir." Mitaka answered quickly. By this point he was standing just behind Rose. "Commander Tico tracked me down several days ago. She said she needed my help to locate and retrieve your files. After she explained the circumstances, well, I couldn't say no," he concluded with a look of apology to Hux.

At this, Dameron once again adopted a belligerent tone. "So we know they exist. Give us the files, Hux."

"Poe." It was the first time FN-2187 had spoken since sitting down. Until then, he had been quietly observing the others.

"To what purpose?" Hux questioned pointedly.

"I don't have to-"

"Stop it, Poe," Rose interrupted. "We're wasting time. Once Hux hears the details, I'm sure he will cooperate." Hux watched as Rose and Dameron both tried to stare the other down. After several tense moments, Dameron conceded with a grimace and looked down at the table. 

Whatever was going on between them, it appeared Rose held the upper hand. At least for now. She turned back and gazed determinedly at Hux. Her eyes seemed to be begging him to understand something not being said, though she kept her posture stiff and hands still.

"Eight days ago, operatives from the First Order Remnant carried out a kidnapping. They're demanding that we deliver your engineering designs and files in exchange for the victim's return. The deadline is in four days."

She was succinct. And she was still. Rose was telling him something with the absence of her typical self. Or perhaps she had simply changed. Mastered herself despite her past teasing complaints regarding Hux's own rigidity. Either way, he needed more information. No one at the table currently had his trust.

"I don't believe you," he countered, watching Rose closely. "The Coalition would never agree to hand those files over to the enemy. Under any circumstances."

"They will. They have," Rose responded, cutting her eyes quickly to Dameron who was scowling at Hux.

Again, he sensed that Rose was sending him a message. That Dameron was a factor. What Hux could not determine, though, was whether they were supposed to be performing for the pilot or sincerely trying to convince him. Either way, Hux was reasonably certain he knew his part of the script.

"No, this is just a ruse so the Coalition can get its hands on those designs. They must be desperate," he sneered.

"It's not a ploy, Hux. I promise," Rose assured him. At this, she seemed unable to maintain her un-Rose-like stoicism any longer. Her eyes took on a desperate expression as she employed her own weapon, "please."

She knew very well how her begging affected him. At least how it used to. But he also knew she would never plead with him unless it was incredibly important to her.

Promise me you'll survive. Please.

Instead of softening as he once would have, Hux scoffed, "one hostage cannot be that valuable."

"She is!" Rose insisted, leaning forward over the table. "She's more important than anything."

She? Who was this hostage that clearly meant so much to Rose? Hux felt unreasonably and uncomfortably jealous at the idea of her obvious devotion to another. 

"Who, exactly, did the Order kidnap?" he demanded. 

At this, Dameron once again interjected himself into the discussion. With a clear look of warning, he ordered, "Rose, don't."

"Or what, Poe?" she demanded angrily.  

At the same moment, FN-2187 spoke for the second time in the conversation, "Poe, he has a right to know."

Even Mitaka joined the protest, "sir, it's common decency."

Hux had reached the end of his vaunted patience with all of them.

"Who, exactly, was kidnapped?" he practically shouted.

Every eye at the table turned its gaze to Hux. Only one voice answered. 

"Your daughter."

Chapter Text

"Your daughter."

There.

Two words.

She'd said them. There would be no turning back now.

And despite the vise of worry and fear that still squeezed her chest and made it difficult to breathe, Rose was relieved.

Hux knew. 

Even when she had hated General Hux of the First Order, she didn’t doubt his determination or his competence. It's what made him such a dangerous enemy. 

And ally.

Rose, though, had no idea how he would take the news. It would certainly be a shock. She had several of those herself recently.

He's alive, Rose.

The future, nevermind children, had never been discussed between them. Too many potential monsters lived behind that door.

Their…interactions had been complicated enough without the addition of that topic. Or any topic that hinted at a post-war life or relationship. After all, you can't discuss the future of a relationship when you are both actively denying the existence of one in the first place.

"Daughter?"

The question, uttered in a strangled voice, brought her back to the present discussion. She found him staring intensely at her, clearly trying to discern whether she was telling the truth. Rose had expected his suspicion. What she hadn't anticipated was the present look in his eyes.

As if he would leap across the table and strangle her if she was lying.

Because he wanted to deny it as a lie or because he wanted it to be the truth? Rose honestly, and quite surprisingly, didn't know the answer to that.

With Hux, it was always what you couldn't see. 

"Gaia Tico. Your daughter. The First Order took her," she repeated, clinging to the most minimal facts in an attempt to stay calm. Hysterics and emotion wouldn't save her daughter, she knew. 

"How-"

There were a hundred different ways Hux's question could have gone, but Rose would never know. Just then, Kaydel's voice came over the ship's comm.

"I need a destination, Rose, or we'll have to orbit again, and that could draw attention."

At this, Poe once again demanded, "the files, Hux. You know the stakes now. Where are they and how do we access them?"

Hux reluctantly tore his gaze from Rose to scowl at Poe, assessing him briefly and almost immediately dismissing him, before glancing at Dopheld.

His regard prompted the former lieutenant to respond, slowly and carefully, "I explained to Mr. Dameron and Mr. Finn that the files were locked away somewhere on Arkanis, Sir, and that access required your personal code cylinder and encrypted pass code for access. And that even one unauthorized decryption attempt would result in the code cannibalizing itself and destroying the files."

Hux's face smoothed slightly as he seemed satisfied with his former aide's explanation. When he turned back to Rose, his face was once again blank. As he had always done, Hux would place mission objectives above personal questions. 

Almost always.

And only, Rose suspected, temporarily. 

"Do you still have the mono-molecular blade I gave you? At our last…meeting?" Hux asked her, his voice dispassionate and in striking contradiction to the intensity in his pale eyes.

Take this. Keep it on you at all times.

I have a blaster, Hux.

Which is of no help in close combat. And don't tell me you have that ridiculous electro-shock prod. It's a toy, not a weapon. 

It's worked pretty well before.

Rose.

Alright. 

"Of course I do," Rose answered swiftly before realizing how much she revealed with her hasty assurance. 

Hux didn't react other than to tell her, "the required code cylinder is hidden inside the blade's handle."

"Oh." 

It had been in her possession this entire time? She would have to wait to digest and analyze that piece of information later. Instead, Rose quickly thumbed the comm switch on the table. "Kaydel, we need to get to Tatooine. The Mos Eisley hangar."

"Confirmed," came her friend's quick response. "I could use another pair of hands for the jump."

"On my way," Poe acknowledged as he stood and headed toward the bridge. Now that the information was out, he seemed in a hurry to avoid the resulting tension. Coward.

"For fuck's sake, Rose, what-"

"Watch your language," she reflexively interrupted Hux. She blushed when she realized what she had done. "Sorry. Habit."

Little ears.

Hux closed his eyes and rubbed his temple, though Rose was unsure whether it was due to frustration or pain. Concerned, she scrutinized his appearance. She had paid little attention to details earlier, too shocked to see him again. Alive. But, now, Rose could see his pallor, the lines etched on his face from pain or fatigue, and the fine sheen of sweat on his brow. She also worried what issues were concealed by his long hair and unkept beard.

She did note that he seemed fragile in a way that he never had before – insubstantial. Hux had always been lean, and numerous attackers had confused that for weakness. But Rose knew he was more than competent in combat with or without weapons. No, the man in front of her appeared unmoored. Diminished. 

Her heart clenched as she questioned, briefly, whether he could complete the mission in his present state.

Clearly sharing her concern, Dopheld stepped up directly to the table and asked, "Sir, would you like some tea? We have Tarine."

"That would be welcome, Lieutenant," Hux acknowledged with a sigh, unconsciously falling back on ingrained military etiquette. 

"I'll help," Finn offered, speaking up for only the third time since boarding the ship. Rose knew he, too, was conflicted about Hux's presence, but, unlike Poe, Finn was at least holding his own council.

Once the men were in the galley, Hux's intense gaze again found Rose. In a bitter tone, he accused, "you never intended to inform me, did you? It's not enough that you washed your hands of me after your side won. That you left me to rot without one word. You had to keep even this from me?"

Again, Rose wondered at the source of his ire - the perceived deception or the child's existence?

He was angry, but in his eyes, she could also see hurt. Vulnerability. Rose began to reach across the table for his hand, before she checked herself and drew back. Hux wouldn't want a pat or hug – he embraced facts and information more readily than people. 

He needed to know that she hadn't abandoned him. That she hadn't forgotten him.

That they had both been lied to by the Coalition. 

Drawing a deep breath, she began, "you were reported MIA and presumed dead after Exogol. Survivors said Pryde shot you point-blank. You were never listed as 'recovered' or 'injured' in any official Coalition reports. No one knew you were alive or that you were in custody."

Reciting the facts only sparked Rose's anger again. The weeks of tears and denial after Exogol. The months of grief. The years of loneliness. 

And for what?

"It would seem Dameron and FN-2187 knew," he countered snidely.  "You expect me to believe they didn't inform you?"

"His name is Finn," Rose corrected with a tired sigh. "We're not having that argument again." 

Again, she returned to the facts as she now knew them. Hux would be furious with Poe, but that would be nothing new. And, honestly, Rose wasn't sure she could ever forgive her friend either. She certainly couldn't trust him.

"Poe has a lot to answer for, but he says he didn't know until he joined the Security Bureau's Intelligence Division. At that point, you had already been in custody for over a year. And he never told Finn, because he knew, like you did, that Finn would have told me," Rose explained. 

"From what we can gather, it seems that you were found injured in an escape pod in the debris after Exogol. I don't know all the details, but whoever found you were New Republic hardliners – the kind that lost beings on Hosnia. No one informed Resistance Command. Apparently, you were a dilemma. They wanted to execute you for Hosnia, but that would require a trial – a public trial. And the provisional government didn't want your role as a spy to come out, fearing that it wouldn't be good optics - Starkiller saving the Resistance and all. So they just locked you away, and only a handful of High Command and Security Bureau personnel even knew."

"That's the second time you've mentioned Exogol. I assume that was the location of the Resistance victory?" Hux queried as Dopheld returned with his tea. After placing it in front of Hux, Doph sat down with them. It seemed Finn had joined Poe on the bridge or wandered somewhere else on this ridiculously large yacht.

"Yes, sir," Dopheld offered. "After you were shot, I bribed the troopers who were about to dispose of your body and told them I wanted to give you proper military honors. Thankfully, no one had bothered to check you for a pulse after seeing the Allegiant General shoot you, and they didn't know about the cortosis armor. I got you to an escape pod, but I had to wait for a distraction before I could launch the pod or it would have been immediately shot down. Once the battle began, a number of escape pods were jettisoned, and I believed yours would be safe in the confusion. Later, in custody, I was told you were presumed dead. I thought your pod must have been destroyed in the battle, Sir. I'm terribly sorry."

Poor Dopheld looked miserable. When she tracked him down in the FO Parolee program days ago, he clearly still blamed himself for Hux's death. He had been delighted when they learned that his General was alive, but the guilt quickly returned upon hearing of Hux's secret imprisonment. 

"You don't remember any of this?" Rose worried about the extent of physical and psychological injury Hux may have suffered. 

"None. The last I recall, I was reporting the fools' escape over Kijimi to Pryde. There are flashes of Mitaka and an escape pod, but my next substantive memory was waking up in Sunspot."

"If I had known-"

He wouldn't let her finish that statement. Rose didn't know whether he was afraid to hear about what she may or may not have done or whether it just didn't matter to him anymore.

"If the First Order was defeated at Exogol, and I need to see reports of how that occurred, how have they re-formed? Who are the leaders? How did they know about my files? About...the youngling?"

This was the Hux that Rose remembered. Particularly in the early days of their war-time partnership. He was always gathering information, planning strategies, devising contingencies. He never allowed for distractions.

Until they became the distraction. 

His hesitation at the end showed he was clearly not ready to talk about Gaia. She didn't blame him. Rose herself had tried to tuck all her thoughts and emotions about her daughter away. 

She simply couldn't let herself fall apart.

She couldn't make room for anything right now but the mission to save Gaia. Unfortunately, seeing Hux threatened that determination. Rose could feel all those repressed emotions buffeting the door she had locked them behind eight days ago (no, five years ago, a voice whispered). 

Fear, Hux had long ago lectured, was an obstacle – not a motivation. 

Thankfully, facts once again came to her rescue.

"A citizens' fleet defeated the Final Order at Exogol. And Rey killed Palpatine. For good, this time. You can read the reports," she offered, knowing he would want in depth analysis. Hux nodded agreement as he picked up his mug and drank. His eyes closed as he savored the tea. She doubted he had access to his preferred drink in prison.

"The First Order didn't commit much of its fleet to the final battle, but several ships were attacked in planetary uprisings afterward. We heard that a significant number escaped and fled back into the Unknown Regions. Once the Coalition was formally established, they sent patrols to hunt the Remnant down, but they've been elusive. As for leaders, we don't know. Clearly, there has been confusion and misinformation as to who in the leadership survived Exogol."

"And…the girl?"

Definitely not ready to discuss his daughter. Rose felt only slightly guilty for her relief at his obvious reticence. 

"I don't know how the Order found out. Hardly anyone even knew about Gaia. And the people who knew about her didn't know about you. Only five people were aware that you were her father." Rose heard the defensiveness in her own voice, and she hated herself for it. She was making excuses for her inability to protect their daughter, and her emotions were threatening to break free and overwhelm her.

"It was safer that way. I was trying to keep her safe." And she had failed. At the most basic duty of a parent. She was a terrible mother. Recalling Hux’s aversion to  emotional displays, she blinked rapidly to prevent the tears from falling and bowed her head. 

"But they came anyway. They took my baby."

It was all too much. 

Seeing Hux again after believing him dead. Her little girl taken. The emotions she had been stuffing down for days now threatened to rise up and engulf her.

She gulped for air and closed her eyes to try to control the sobs that were clawing to escape. All she could see, though, was Gaia's empty bed, save for the ransom message left for her. 

So she sat, head bowed, and waited for his judgment. His accusations at her guilt.

"I will get her back to you."

Rose felt a hand on her chin, nudging her face upwards. When she opened her eyes, Hux stood over her, still grasping her face. Her thoughts immediately returned to another time they were in this position – the Supremacy. Then, he had been her enemy - her judge and executioner. Now, he was her savior - her last hope for getting her daughter back.

He was remembering as well, she knew, when his gaze dropped down to her pendant. When he looked back up, she saw a maelstrom of emotions in his eyes before he was able to shutter them.

And after only a brief internal struggle, Rose gave in. 

She had been strong for such a long time – through her world's destruction, her parents' deaths, losing Paige, the war. She had carried the weight of Hux's death, of being a mother and provider. And despite the help of caring friends, Rose had felt alone. 

Even worse, Rose had been lonely. But she had endured.  

And she was just so very tired of doing that. 

The burdens were so heavy without someone to share them, and she just needed a respite from the weight. Needed a moment  to feel assured and safe. And only one person since Paige had ever made her feel that way.

So she exhaled slowly and let it all go. Her paralyzing fear for Gaia. Her questions about Poe's loyalty. Her bitterness at the Coalition and what it sanctimoniously stole from her. And her uncertainty regarding Hux and what all of this meant for them. 

Whether there even was a 'them.'

In a rush, Rose stood and threw herself against him, clutching at his jacket and pulling herself close. Hux tensed briefly as he absorbed her momentum, and she waited for him to push her away. Instead, though, his arms came up and tightened around her. Rose buried her face in his chest in an effort to stop her tears. His hand cupped her head, holding her there.

"Promise me."

Without hesitation, he replied, "I promise. The First Order will not harm her. Or you."

Rose believed him. Hux's determination had always been a fierce thing to behold. 

He said it, so it must be so. 

For the first time in days, Rose felt like she could breathe. It would be okay. 

She wasn't alone anymore. 

Oh, all her problems were still there, she knew, waiting for her. But for the first time since this nightmare began, Rose allowed herself to feel a spark of hope. She and Hux had proven formidable when they worked together before. 

She remembered Rey's description of her final confrontation with Palpatine – how she felt unbeatable with Ben Solo at her side.

Surely, Rose and Hux could outmaneuver the First Order and the Coalition and save their daughter.

Easy Peasy, right?

Her thoughts were interrupted when she felt Hux shudder. Rose looked up and was immediately alarmed – he looked terrible. His face seemed etched in pain, and he had begun to shiver slightly. Reaching up and touching his face, she found his skin clammy and damp. 

"Sit down. Are you hurt? Sick?"

"I'm fine," he assured her. "Just my leg."

"Your leg?" Rose asked, confused, as she nudged him back down into a seat. "The one Finn shot?" She couldn't hide her grimace at this reminder of her friends' petulance. Or their enmity towards Hux. "The prison medics weren't able to treat it?"

"What medics?" Hux sneered. "Only life-threatening conditions received any treatment. Any other injuries or illnesses were left to heal on their own. Or not."

"No bacta? No medication?" 

Hux's silence was answer enough.

Rose was indignant. Happabores were treated better! Learning that Hux was alive and imprisoned had left her reeling. But learning that he had been in Sunspot these past five years had been almost more than she could bear. It had been the most notorious prison in the New Republic for Imperial war criminals like the Moffs. The space station wasn't even supposed to be in operation anymore. Defenders of the prison had once argued that it was better than a prison planet or labor camp, but everyone knew that only the worst of the worst were sent there. 

She had already become disillusioned with the Coalition – wanted nothing more to do with the incompetent government. But now, she wanted to burn it down. 

Blinded by its desire to not repeat the post-war mistakes of the New Republic and its predecessors, the Coalition quickly made numerous blunders. Its leaders refused to pursue a peace treaty with the Remnant, citing the failure of the prior Accord. It prioritized expanding the military and continued to sanction systems that had aligned with the First Order. Unfortunately, there was no one like Mon Mothma to push for post-war conciliation and rebuilding. 

The Coalition wanted its pound of flesh, while Populist zealots were more concerned with their own systems and planets over galactic unity. The result was a weak government with a strong military – not a good combination. 

This was not the galactic government that she had fought for or that Paige had died for.

Rose set several plans in motion in the days after Gaia was taken – more when she learned of the Coalition's deception regarding Hux. She had always been a methodical problem solver, but Hux had taught her to be a strategic thinker as well.

It was one thing to follow a manual, he'd told her. It was quite another to beat an opponent.

These new revelations from Hux simply firmed her resolve to succeed. They would find Gaia. 

And the Coalition was never getting its hands on Hux again.

"You need rest. And I'll check the medkit for analgesics," she told him.

"No, I need information," he stubbornly countered. "Reports of the battle and aftermath as well as all current information available on the Order."

"Hux, we have ten hours until Tatooine. I need you fully functional. You need to rest while you can."

"Can you?"

He knew her well enough to understand that her mind had been moving a mile per minute since the moment Gaia was taken. And that her body had likely followed. 

"Fine," she conceded. "I'll compile everything I can on a datapad for you. In the meantime, at least go take a shower. The hot water might help your leg." Rose glanced at Dopheld, who had been quietly observing their interaction, to get his support.

"Sir, I acquired appropriate clothing and kit for you while we were waiting on Eriadu." Dopheld clearly wagered that Hux's preoccupation with an orderly appearance was still intact. "Let me assist you to your quarters, while the Commander compiles those reports."

"Briefly," Hux conceded with a sigh. "When I return, we have more to discuss." With a pointed look at Rose, he allowed Dopheld to help him stand and walk down the corridor. 

Rose remained where she stood for several moments. She didn't know if he meant that they needed to talk about Gaia or them or the mission. Maybe all of the above. 

Rose did not want to discuss her daughter with him, though. Not yet. As it was, she was once again struggling to hold herself together. Just as she put aside her grief for Paige on the Canto Bight mission, she had to control her fear for Gaia on this one. Once she was safe, her parents could deal with their own issues and feelings.

For now, she decided, she needed more caf. Entering the adjoining galley, she found Finn leaning against one of the counters.

"You heard?"

"Some of it, yes," he quietly acknowledged. "Here, I found this in Lando's stateroom. It might help," Finn said as he held out a walking cane to her. "He has several."

Rose accepted the cane and leaned it against the wall.  Turning back, she allowed some of her anger to surface. "So that's who has your loyalty? You must be proud to serve a government that denies basic rights!"

"The Coalition has made mistakes, Rose," Finn conceded. "I know that. But if we give up and walk away, it would only be worse. We can influence it from the inside. That wasn't a possibility with the First Order, but it is with the Coalition. It can change."

"Can it?" Rose was skeptical of her friend's optimistic predictions. 

"Rose, what happened to you? You never gave up – you always believed that you had to fight for what you loved."

"I still do, Finn. I just love different things now."

The words slipped out before Rose could stop them. She couldn't let herself think too much about what they meant. Not now.

"I know you're angry at Poe for not telling you about Hux. And you think I should be doing more." Finn seemed exasperated with Rose's pessimistic outlook on the Coalition. "Kriff, I think you're still mad at us for not dragging him off the Steadfast."

"You endangered him, you shot him, and then you abandoned him!" Rose spat out. "A cane doesn't absolve you. And you and I both know that Poe still isn't telling the whole truth."

"He really did think he was protecting you, Rose. Poe believed that if the galaxy knew Hux was alive, if you knew, it would put you and Gaia in danger."

"So he left him to rot just like you left him to die." Her disgust was obvious. 

"We had a mission, Rose. We had to get the Wayfinder. Mission objectives had to be prioritized."

"Not before people," she countered hotly. More gently, she continued, "you're a good man, Finn, and I think you'll do the right thing when the time comes. At least I hope so."

With that, she picked up the cane and her caf and walked away.

On reaching the cabin she shared temporarily with Kaydel, Rose pulled out her commlink and sent two messages. Both detailed out their impending arrival on Tatooine. She was certain the first would be received and the instructions followed. The second – well, she could only hope. Once the messages had been sent, Rose fell into her bunk. Force, she was tired – she would just close her eyes for a minute. 

~~

"Rosie. Rosie." Rose's consciousness returned abruptly. She opened her eyes to find Kaydel leaning over her with a hand on her shoulder. 

"What-"

"Easy. It's okay. I just wanted to tell you we're a little more than halfway. Poe's got the controls, so I can get a little rack time before we land. Try and go back to sleep," Kaydel suggested as she moved over to the other bunk and laid down.

"No, I'm up."

"Rose, you've barely slept in days. I wouldn't have woken you at all, but I knew you wanted an ETA update."

"Yeah, thanks. But I'm okay now. I need to compile some reports. You should sleep, though." Rose looked over to find Kaydel already out.

Her friend had immediately responded to Rose's call for help. As soon as Jannah offered the use of Lando's yacht, Kaydel made the trip to pick up the Lady Luck and pilot it to Eriadu where Rose and Mitaka were waiting. Thankfully, the sophisticated ship could make do with one pilot when needed.

Kaydel had simply informed her superiors in the Coalition Liaison Office that she had a family emergency, and she had come with no questions asked. No hesitation. Rose was incredibly grateful for the few friends that she could trust.

She picked up a datapad and began pulling reports together. Some were public information. Others, classified. She was certain that Poe and his superiors in Intelligence would be upset if they knew she was showing the files to Hux. But it was Hux, not the Coalition, who could save Gaia. So she would provide him with every weapon at her disposal. With Hux, that meant information. 

After organizing the files on the datapad, Rose decided to add one more. She may not have been ready to discuss her daughter with Hux, but he deserved to decide for himself whether to open the file and see his daughter's image. Rose refused to take another choice away from him.

Leaving Kaydel sleeping, Rose collected the datapad and cane and approached Hux's quarters. She briefly thought of berating Lando for having such an ostentatious ship, but she was too grateful for his ready agreement to loan it to them for this mission. In fact, he had to be convinced to stay at home with Jannah – Lando himself knew the pain of having a child taken.

Rose tapped on the door, and a moment later, it was opened by Dopheld. After a brief glance back, he joined Rose in the small corridor as the door slid shut behind him.

"How is he?"

"Resting, ma'am. After his shower, I convinced him to let me trim his hair and beard – to feel more like himself," Dopheld explained. "He fell asleep afterwards, Commander."

"I told you to call me Rose, Doph," she reminded him kindly. "He just fell asleep?"  The Hux she had known viewed sleep, like meals, to be an inefficient use of time.

Dopheld blushed as he admitted, "I may have added a mild relaxant to his tea. I've done so in the past when he needed rest."

"It was a smart call. Here, I brought a datapad with relevant files and a cane Finn found somewhere – it might help."

"I'll wake him soon, then. He will want to read everything he can," he confirmed.

Rose hesitated – afraid to hear the answer. "How bad is it? Really?"

She dreaded the answer when Dopheld instantly grimaced. Once again, she could see how he blamed himself for not saving his General. 

"It's bad, ma'am. There's significant muscle damage to his leg, and, I'm not a medic, but I don't think it can be repaired at this point. His ribs were improperly healed, and, at some point, possibly in the escape pod, he received a head injury that has resulted in occasional migraines. Some malnourishment and possible withdrawal symptoms from the prison sedatives as well."

At Doph's recitation, Rose had to remind herself, once again, to bury her feelings and focus on the immediate objectives. Anger, like fear, would only get in the way. 

For now.

"Will he make it through the mission?"

"Physically? Yes, ma'am. The General has always had a...high pain tolerance."

Dopheld was clearly choosing his words carefully and precisely. Too much so.

"What aren't you telling me, Doph?"

The anger on his typically kind and calm face surprised Rose. It also told her she was not going to like whatever Dopheld had to say. 

"He's been kept in a full Isolation Protocol for almost five years, ma'am. A three by three meter cell with no interaction or engagement. Ration bars and water - all dosed with psychotropics – that he was force fed when he refused to eat. He knows almost nothing of galactic events after the Steadfast." Dopheld's voice held a clear edge of repressed anger as he reported this information. "May I speak freely, ma'am?"

"We're not military anymore, Doph. And it's just Rose. Say what you want to say."

"I would never have believed that the Coalition would treat prisoners this way," he admitted. "I can't say that the conditions during my own detention were ideal, but at least our basic rights were respected."

"It's not what I fought for," Rose agreed.

"I shouldn't have accepted the reports from Exogol. Or I should have done something different on the Steadfast. Or tried harder to find you after I was paroled." The poor man looked close to tears as he berated himself.

"You weren't supposed to find us," Rose reminded him. "No one was supposed to ever find us. And you couldn't have known. You have to stop blaming yourself."

"Will you?"

"I blame the Coalition more," Rose responded rather than answering his question. "Here, give him these. We have approximately two hours."

After handing Doph the datapad and cane, Rose turned away. She only made it a couple steps before she turned back, unable to stop herself, and asked, "did he say anything…ask anything about…?"

Gaia?

Me? 

Us ?

His apologetic look told her the answer before he uttered the words.

"No, ma'am."

Chapter Text

Hux emerged from his temporary quarters more refreshed. More himself.

Much more knowledgeable of the Coalition and First Order Remnant. 

And much angrier.

Awkwardly adjusting his gait to the cane Lieutenant Mitaka had given him, he walked through the impressive ship in search of Rose. A thousand thoughts swirled through his mind as he sorted through his conversation with her and the contents of the datapad.

He found Rose and Dameron seated at the table much as they had been for the previous conversation. Both sat stiffly, frowning at the other, in tension-filled silence. Hux admitted to himself that he quite enjoyed seeing Rose in conflict with her friends. He had often been jealous of what he saw as her misguided loyalty to them in the past.

"How is it that your people are so completely incompetent at creating a functional government?" Hux asked, interrupting their staring contest.

As expected, Dameron switched his glare from Rose to Hux. "I don't know, Hugs. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that you destroyed the prior government's capital and blew up the majority of its leaders. What do you think?"

"Poe," Rose cautioned.

It was simply too easy to goad the pilot. Rose didn't seem to trust him or the Coalition, and after reading the reports and hearing her explanation, he concurred. Unlike Rose, though, Hux had never trusted Dameron. He was far too careless and impulsive. 

And yet, the pilot was somehow integral to the mission, though Hux still needed to learn exactly what role he played. With that in mind, Hux decided that the best strategy for now was to keep Dameron focused on, and angry at, him.

"Military history is rife with similar strategy," he lectured in his most condescending tone, fully aware how the pilot would react. "Destroy the enemy's leadership and infrastructure with the goal of saving the lives of your own troops. You also shorten the duration of the war which ultimately prevents further collateral damage and reduces economic costs. Or would you rather have had a protracted galaxy-wide war like the Clone Wars?"

"You don't save lives by taking them," Dameron sputtered angrily. 

"So that isn't what you were doing when you sacrificed your own bomber squadrons and pilots to take out a single Dreadnought?"

Too easy.

At that, Dameron looked at Rose with an expression that seemed equal parts hurt and betrayal. As if she had somehow committed treason by telling Hux how her sister had died.

"That was a mistake," Dameron quietly acknowledged. "I learned from it."

"Did you, Poe?" Rose asked just as softly. 

Not giving Dameron time to answer, Rose directed her next observation to Hux. "So you looked at the reports and news I left you?"

Hux had looked at everything on the datapad she provided. But he certainly had no intention of discussing the child in front of Dameron. Ever. 

"Yes, and clearly, no one in this galaxy ever learns a kriffing thing." 

"Hey-"

"How much longer until Tatooine?" Hux asked as he interrupted whatever foolish indignation the pilot was about to spew. "And why, of all places, did you settle on that abysmal planet? It's certainly no place to live."

To raise a child.

"Less than an hour," she answered. "And a lot more happens on Tatooine than you would think."

"Biggest little planet in the galaxy," Dameron concurred. 

"Rey thought it had something to do with the Skywalkers," Rose added.  "She said they had an oversized connection to the Force and the effect was like gravity - pulling the galaxy toward Tatooine over and over."

"Mystic nonsense," Hux scoffed. "But speaking of, where is your vaunted Jedi? Shouldn't she be helping you?"

Hux had been somewhat surprised to not see any evidence of Jedi involvement in the Coalition in the reports he read. Perhaps the galaxy had finally come to its senses. While he did not necessarily begrudge beings worshipping the Force, Hux firmly believed that such beliefs needed to stay far removed from government. 

Personally, Hux had no tolerance for the Force. To him, it had only ever meant broken bones, concussions, and wasted resources. He certainly had no idea why so many beings revered it.

He believed that the religion of Palpatine, Snoke, and Ren had always been the greatest weakness of the Empire and First Order. What could they have accomplished if they had not been derailed by Force zealots? 

He had pondered that question for almost five years.

"Rey's actually how I ended up on Tatooine," Rose continued. "After Exogol, we both needed time and distance from the Resistance, so I went with her when she made a trip there. And then we just…ended up staying. The owner of the hangar we used was getting older and needed help doing ship repairs and running her business. After Gaia was born, she even watched her for me. It was a decent life."

"And the Jedi?"

Rose glanced at Dameron before answering. "Rey left a couple years ago. She needed to look for something."

"She didn't need to take my droid!" The pilot sounded just like the petulant child Hux perceived him to be. 

"BB8 wanted to go. Besides, you and Finn have Threepio and Artoo," she said to Dameron before looking back to Hux. "Anyway, Rey and I only communicate sporadically. We send messages to a shared holo board and check it when we can. But she is frequently traveling and often out of reach."

Hux noted the vagueness in Rose's explanation. The communication procedures between her and the Scavenger seemed unnecessarily convoluted as well, though he wouldn't question her further in front of the pilot.

"She doesn't message me or Finn." Kriff, Hux thought, how does Rose put up with this man-child?

"Because she knows how you feel about the fact that we refused official positions in the Coalition, Poe." 

It was unfortunate that FN-2187's voice came over the comm just then. Rose appeared to be completely out of patience by that point, and Hux would have liked to see her put Dameron in his place. "Coming out of hyperspace in ten."

"I better go help," the pilot remarked as he stood.

"One more question," Hux spoke before Dameron walked away. "Speaking of working for the Coalition, is this mission actually sanctioned? You seemed intent on avoiding those other Coalition representatives at Sunspot."

Rose waved the man toward the bridge before turning back to Hux to explain. "Securing your release was Plan Besh. Plan Aurek was for the Coalition to waste time with more interrogation sessions first. I knew it wouldn't work, so I persuaded Poe and Finn to preemptively implement Besh. The Coalition knows what we're doing, but I doubt they're very happy with how we did it."

"Persuaded?"

"Threatened," Rose clarified. 

"Good girl."

Hux recalled Rose's flustered look at his praise as they later made their way through the Mos Eisley streets. Alleys, really.

They had left Lieutenant Mitaka and the young woman, Lieutenant Connix, at Hangar 3-5 with instructions from Rose to oversee refueling and loading additional supplies.

Hux had been slightly surprised when the young woman placed a restraining arm on Rose as they exited. "Are you sure about this, Rose?"

"Just be ready," Rose had quietly replied.

Hux thought about the odd exchange as they walked through the port city. Once again wearing a hooded cloak, he observed his surroundings. Most of the buildings were sandstone and appeared to be only one or two levels, though Hux knew that desert worlds often utilized underground dwelling spaces to escape the heat. He recalled similar architecture from his time on Jakku as a youngling. It was perhaps that experience that resulted in his disdain for desert planets. Or possibly that his earliest memories were of the seas and coastlines of Arkanis. 

He noted Rose glancing back and slowing down a few times in deference to his limp. The cane helped, but the pain persisted and his gait was still slow. The heat and brightness made it difficult for him as well. He detested how weak he still felt. But at least his mind was clearer.

He could think. In fact, he couldn't stop thinking. But, for now, he needed to focus on the mission and the necessary steps for the child's return. The rest would have to wait until he had more information and more privacy.

He noted they were in a clean and quiet part of the town comprised mostly of domiciles. When Rose paused in front of one, he assumed they arrived at her home. 

She motioned for them in after inputting a code on the door panel.  Upon entering, Hux noticed the simple furnishings of what appeared to be the great room. He noted steps leading down to lower levels that probably housed bedrooms, kitchen, and fresher. A closed door was the only indication of any other rooms on this level, and Hux assumed it was a workroom or something similar. 

He had expected to see more color or more personality in Rose's home. It seemed barren and impersonal to him. Looking around, Hux realized that there were no personal items or knick knacks in sight – as if the occupants were still in the process of moving in. Or out. He glanced at Rose in curiosity to find her already regarding him. At his look, she shook her head almost imperceptibly at him, clearly not wanting him to remark on the state of her home.

Instead, he asked, "you have the mono-molecular blade here?"

"Yeah, stored in my room where Gaia couldn't find it. Wait here and I'll get it," she confirmed before disappearing down the steps.

Hux wanted to follow to satisfy his curiosity. Part of him felt compelled to see evidence of Rose's life here. Her daughter's life. As if that would make the child's existence more substantive. Real. 

But he also recognized the tension around him and the two remaining men. It was not the focused energy of a clear mission. It felt thick and muddy in a way that hinted at secrets and conflicted loyalties.

Rose returned after a few minutes and proceeded to approach Hux and place the blade in his free hand. He noted Dameron's scowl at seeing him holding the weapon. Juggling his cane, Hux managed to unlock the discreet latch on the end of the blade's handle and turned it over so that the cylinder code dropped into Rose's hand.

"Look at that. I really thought you might be lying to us, Hugs," Dameron commented as Hux resealed the blade's handle. It had been a long time since Hux had the use of any weapon other than his mind. 

Hefting the perfectly balanced blade in his hand, he was briefly reminded what being a soldier felt like. Not a commander. Not an engineer. A soldier. 

It had been decades since he had felt the uncomplicated drive of a soldier on a mission. Clear goals. Singular objective. As General, Hux had become too accustomed to layered motivations and secret agendas.

"Alright, Hux," Dameron interrupted his thoughts. "Your man said that a passcode was needed to access the files. What is it?"

Hux was immediately suspicious. His fingers flexed on the blade just as he noticed Rose's stance shift slightly. Even FN-2187 tensed and looked at the pilot questioningly. 

"Why would you need to know that now, Dameron?" Hux asked. "I can tell you when we arrive at Arkanis."

"You're not going to Arkanis, Hugs." Dameron replied as he pulled his blaster from the holster on his leg and pointed it at Hux.

"What are you doing?" Rose's tone was irate. And, oddly, louder than necessary in the small room. 

"Poe?" FN-2187 simply looked confused.

"I'm sorry, Rose. I really am," the pilot declared as he looked briefly at Rose, regretful but determined. "But the Coalition can't let the First Order get those files. Ever."

"What about Gaia? They have my daughter, Poe! This is the only way to get her back."

"No, we're going to send a SpecForce team in to rescue her. They just need the coordinates for the exchange. As soon as we let them know, they'll be en route. The team will get her back safely, Rose."

"You can't guarantee that!" Hux could hear the desperation in Rose's voice as she pleaded with Dameron. Beneath that, though, he also heard a weary acceptance. The kind of tone people used when they were disappointed, but unsurprised, by someone else's behavior. "Listen to me, Poe, those files are the only leverage we have. I am begging you not to do this."

"I'm sorry, Rose. Tell me the passcode, Hux."

Hux glanced at Rose as he adjusted the blade's grip in his hand and angled his body towards Dameron. But he paused before throwing the blade and attacking – his instincts told him to follow Rose's lead. To be a soldier instead of a commander. 

"No, I don't think I will."

"Tell me, or I call off the rescue team," Dameron threatened. 

"Stop this!" As Rose pleaded with Dameron, Hux saw FN-2187's hand slowly move toward his own blaster. The trooper's face was impassive, and Hux couldn't determine who he would actually support in the developing stand off.

"No? Fine," the pilot continued. "It's not ideal but at least with the code cylinder in our possession, no one else can access the files.The Coalition may not get them, but neither will the Remnant. Give me the code cylinder, Rose."

"Poe, if you were ever my friend, you won't do this."

"We can't let them rebuild! Too many people gave everything to defeat the First Order. Too many people died trying to stop them!"

Hux recognized the conviction in Dameron's voice. He could recall hearing it in his own once. The pilot, he knew, believed completely in the rightness of his cause.

"Like Paige?" Rose asked pointedly.

"Yes, like Paige. I won't let those sacrifices be in vain. I won't dishonor Leia like that. She died to defeat the First Order."

"No. Leia died for her son." Rose's response was firm and certain. 

"You don't know what you're talking about," Dameron scoffed.

Another quick glance at FN-2187 showed that he was listening intently to the argument. His hand hadn't moved any closer to his holster.

"Don't I?" Rose countered. "Who do you think spent time with Leia in those last months? You two were always off on missions and Rey was either training or meditating. Leia knew she was dying. We spent hours talking late at night when she couldn't sleep. I lost a sister, and she was grieving her brother.  She told me that her biggest regret was placing the New Republic before her family. Leia told me that if I ever had to choose between my cause and my loved ones, I should always choose the latter."

Don't make my mistakes. Choose love over duty, Rose.

Even a duty to save the galaxy?

Love is the only thing that can save the galaxy.

"No, she sacrificed everything for the Resistance. For a free galaxy." It was clear that Dameron would not heed whatever Rose was trying to tell him. 

Hux continued to assess the situation. Rose was unarmed, and he only had the mono-molecular blade as a weapon (though the cane could also be used as one). Hux's reflexes were slower, and Dameron still had his blaster trained on him. The trooper was the unknown variable. He had no idea how FN-2187 would respond if he attacked the pilot. And Hux wouldn't risk Rose getting hurt. So he waited and looked for an opening.

"I was there when she died," Rose reminded Dameron. "You weren't. Her last words weren't 'freedom' or 'democracy' or even, I'm sorry to tell you, 'Poe'. It was 'Ben'." Rose spoke with an almost vicious satisfaction. "But you're right. Leia lost everything - her family, her home, her friends. And she warned me not to let the same happen to me."

"Leia could never have predicted this situation," the pilot argued. "She would never trust Hux."

"She's the one who told me I was pregnant. You think it was a coincidence that she kept finding excuses to keep me grounded on base near the end? Destroyer schematics, Poe? Really? Leia knew Hux was the father, and she didn't judge me for it. She said I was right - that we had to choose love."

"Rose," FN-2187 spoke again. "You think Hux is going to become a model…what? Husband? Father? He only spied for the Resistance because he wanted to destroy Ren. It was purely selfish."

"If I recall, you weren't exactly selfless and altruistic when you joined the Resistance, Finn."

"I changed."

"How do you know that he didn't?"

Hux kept still and silent throughout the heated argument. He would need surprise to have a chance to overpower these two.

By this point, Dameron had stepped closer to Rose and Hux, and FN-2187 stood to the pilot's side. Hux was trying to decide how best to employ the blade and cane against each of them.

"Enough! Rose, give me the code cylinder." At this, Dameron swung his blaster to point at Rose, settling the question as to which one would get Hux's blade.

"I will kill you, Dameron," Hux declared as he readied his hand. 

"Poe!" FN-2187 protested.

"I don't think so," a new voice proclaimed from behind Dameron. "Lower the blaster, flyboy."

Apparently, while Hux and Finn had been focused on Dameron, someone else had entered the room. A quick scan showed the door Hux had earlier noted was now standing open.

Dameron reflexively turned in reaction. As the pilot swung his blaster, Hux raised the cane and knocked the weapon from his hand.

"Rosie, pick up that blaster. Red, get the cute one's weapon."

Hux complied without hesitation. Only once the weapons were confiscated did he take a moment to assess the new player. And that's when he realized that he was taking orders from someone's grandmother. There stood perhaps the tiniest woman Hux had ever seen holding a modified A280 blaster rifle that was at least half her size. And despite her advanced age, she looked more than ready to use it.

"Rose, what are you doing?" Dameron queried as he held his hands in the air.

"Did you really think I didn't know what you and the Coalition were up to, Poe? That I believed the lies about Hux getting a pardon?" Hux recognized the look in Rose's eyes. He had seen that same ferocity just before she bit his hand on the Supremacy. 

"You planned this?" Dameron asked in clear disbelief. 

Oh, he was almost gleeful. Rose not only bested Dameron, she had clearly chosen Hux over her one-time friend in doing so. If the circumstances hadn't been so serious, he would have laughed out loud at the look on the pilot's face.

"Don't be so shocked. I learned a few things from Hux, after all."

At that, Hux did laugh. He quickly stopped at Rose's glare, however.

"This is a very bad idea, Rose," Dameron argued in a last ditch effort. "He's too dangerous."

"That's exactly why I need him."

"You can't trust him. Hux will betray you."

"Like you did?" came her only reply to the pilot. Looking to FN-2187, who also had his hands in the air, Rose pleaded, "Finn, please tell me you didn't know that Poe would do this."

The trooper grimaced at Hux before looking at Dameron with clear disappointment. "I knew he felt guilty. But I thought it was just because he let you believe Hux was dead. Please believe me, Rose, I wouldn't do anything to endanger Gaia."

Before Rose could reply, the tiny octogenarian interrupted, "enough chit chat, Rosie. We're on the clock."

"Rose, don't make the Coalition an enemy." Hux scoffed at the pilot's threat. Rose had a similar reaction.

"They already made one out of me."

Finding himself in agreement with the old woman regarding their timeline, Hux interjected, "we need to tie them up or secure them somehow."

"I've got binders in my bag, Red." The old woman motioned with her blaster in the direction of a bag on the floor.

"Peli, why are you carrying restraints around in your bag?" Hux paused for just a moment, equally curious as to the woman's answer.

"Reasons," she answered with a shrug. 

Hux collected the binders and followed the two women as they led the men to the lower level. He noted the absence of personal items here as well. And there were only a few pieces of furniture. 

Dameron and FN-2187 were secured to the bed in the larger room. 

Hux overheard the trooper talking to Rose as she snapped the binders on his wrists and ankles. "Do what you have to do, Rose. Just be careful. I'll do my best to make Poe see sense."

Once the two Coalition representatives were secure, the trio turned to leave.

"There's no coming back from this, you know." 

Dameron's warning caused Rose to look back, her disappointment clear. "I do. But you have to fight for what you love, Poe. Hate is a zero sum game. I hope you learn that before it's too late."

"One life isn't worth the peace of the entire galaxy," the pilot argued in a last ditch plea. 

"This one is."

"We must go," Hux urged.

The group left the domicile and began to make their way back to the hangar as quickly as possible. 

As they neared their destination, Rose asked the other woman, "everything taken care of, Peli?"

"You bet," she assured. "Except for the baggage in the hangar, it's all been packed up and stored. The droids will load everything else on a freighter when we send them a destination. Ichi Kono was thrilled when I told him we were finally willing to sell the hangar and shop. We're good to go."

Once they reached the hangar, Rose paused and turned to the other woman, "are you sure, Peli? You can still change your mind. You've never even been off planet."

The older woman simply slung her blaster rifle over her shoulder and declared, "well, then, it's high time, missy. I should see the galaxy while I'm still young," she cackled before turning serious. "Gigi needs me. End of discussion."

At this, Rose hugged her. Hux was unclear as to the nature of the women's relationship, but he could see that they had a close bond. Pulling from the embrace, Rose looked towards the ship's ramp where Mitaka and the Resistance lieutenant were waiting.

"Everything loaded, Kaydel?"

"Affirmative. The ship's tracker has been disabled as well. We're good to go."

"I almost forgot. Hux, sit down." Rose motioned for him to sit on one of the crates close by. As he did, she took the mono-molecular blade from his grasp. She then proceeded to point it at Hux's neck. Was this it, he wondered. Did she have no more need of him? Hux already knew he wouldn't defend himself. If anyone in the galaxy deserved a pound of flesh, it was Rose Tico. 

She surprised him by nudging his head down with her other hand. A moment later, he felt the blade cutting into the back of his neck. And then just as quickly, she took it away. He looked up as she held something for him to see. "Prisoner tracker. We have to get rid of it as well."

Rose turned to the old woman again. "Here, Peli, get one of the droids to plant it on another departing ship. It may confuse the Coalition enough that we can get to Arkanis before they do."

As the woman hurried off, Rose turned to Hux. "Let's get something for the wound." She led him onboard as the other three hurried to finish prepping for departure. 

Once they were all aboard, Lieutenant Connix advised, "I just need to enter the coordinates for Arkanis into the nav computer, and we'll take off."

"We're not going to Arkanis."

"What?" Rose and Lieutenant Connix exclaimed simultaneously in response to Hux's pronouncement. 

"Lieutenant Mitaka lied to those idiots," he explained. "The files are not located on Arkanis."

"You lied?" Rose sought clarification as Lieutenant Connix looked at Mitaka in disbelief and, perhaps, approval. 

"I didn't trust General Dameron, ma'am," the lieutenant replied apologetically.

Rose turned to Hux for his justification. 

"I don't trust anyone," he reminded her. 

"So where, then? Kaydel needs to set a course."

"Eiram," Hux answered. 

Rose looked taken aback at his reply. He understood her reaction. Memories were there. History. 

"Starlight?" she asked breathlessly. 

"Planetside, actually."

"Oh. I didn't think I would ever go back there."

~~

Starlight Beacon (Eiram) - 7 months before Exogol

Rose was nervous. And Rose hated being nervous. It made her fidgety and sweaty and tongue-tied. Paige could always calm her down, but Paige wasn't here anymore. Months since Crait, and Rose was still not used to her sister's absence. 

So here she sat, on some derelict space station in a galactic backwater, waiting for him. General Asshole Starkiller himself. The Resistance's shiny new spy.

She still didn't quite understand how all of this came about. A few coded messages and First Order secrets to demonstrate goodwill and here she was meeting him face-to-face. But she could only blame herself. Although the spy had requested Rose specifically, General Organa had made it clear that she had a choice. Though she really didn't, she thought.

Rose knew that they needed someone with technical experience who could understand the data provided by the spy and ask the right questions. She was also aware that, if things went south, Rose would not be a critical loss for the Resistance. 

She also wanted to look him in the eye and let the great General know that she was no more scared of him now than she had been on the Supremacy. Well, truthfully, she had been terrified on the Supremacy, but she still managed to take a chunk off his hand and live to tell the tale.

Rose finally heard sounds from the direction of the makeshift airlock. She drew her blaster and waited. After a few moments, First Order General Hux himself emerged in the bay. He looked just as he had months ago.

Down to the sneer.

Rose pounced. "Just give me the data and turn around and go."

"Not even a thank you?" Hux asked snidely as he stopped a few steps away. "I suppose one should expect no more from rebel scum."

Rose wasn't sure what she hated more - the condescension in his voice or on his face.

"Oh, thank you, sir, for being slightly less evil than I thought." Rose's sarcasm was biting and angry. "Although you've definitely made it over the bar for my asshole expectations. So, really, it's a draw. Congratulations."

Ha! Paige would have been proud of that!

"Lovely," he remarked. "Regardless, that data card only has the overall design for the hyperspace tracker. No notes. You'll need my assistance in finding its weaknesses."

"I can't believe that the great General Hux just admitted his designs have a weakness."

"Everything in the galaxy has a weakness, Commander."

"What's yours?"

Now why the kriff had Rose said that? She didn't want to know anything at all about the man in front of her. 

Rose wanted to hate him. And Rose's heart couldn't hate anyone it came to know. Determined to deny the opportunity, she quickly reverted back to the topic. "Fine. But only because I will cherish the memory of you having to point out the flaws of your own invention."

"Shall we sit then?" he asked as he motioned towards the medbay beds spaced around them.

"What is this place anyway?" 

"This is all that remains of the Starlight Beacon, another failure of the Republic. When the station was destroyed, the Medical Tower detached and remained intact - serving as something of a lifeboat for the survivors. It has stayed functional and in orbit around Eiram since."

"That was hundreds of years ago, Hux! Is this even safe?" Rose had just seated herself on one of the beds. At his explanation, she had to stop herself from jumping back up and heading to her ship. Instead, Hux sat down next to her.

Rose wasn't sure what annoyed her more - that she had to sit near him or that her feet dangled like a child, while his own comfortably reached the floor.

He drew her attention away from her insecurity when he commented, "I have visited it numerous times over the years and inspected its life support. It's perfectly safe, and very few beings know about it."

"How do you?" Rose couldn't keep the suspicion from her voice. Well, she didn't even try.

He seemed to take no offense at her tone. "I enjoyed studying about that time period when I was younger. I don't have unlimited time, though, so we need to focus on the tracker." 

They spent the next hour huddled over the datapad together as Hux explained the design. He found himself pleasantly surprised when Commander Tico demonstrated her technical proficiency and expertise. She did not ask any of the moronic questions he was used to hearing. Nor did she need him to repeat himself. The comments that the commander did make were intuitive and insightful. 

"A stable hyperspace field. I hate to say I am impressed.  And I mean I really hate to say that, but everyone was so focused on finding the perfect algorithm for hyperspace tracking. No one thought to just brute force it with computers hyped up on stims." Her voice was excited and her face animated as she scrolled efficiently through the data and specs on the datapad.  

It was clear that, like Hux, Commander Tico could lose herself in a technical project. She hadn't scowled at him once in the last twenty minutes. "And definitely not by creating a hyperspace field generator for the computers. What made you think of it?"

"No one was ever going to find the magic algorithm," he dismissed. "Too many variables. So I looked elsewhere for a solution. And hyperspace has always fascinated me. It’s why I studied the Expansion Era of the Republic."

"See, right there," she exclaimed as she poked him in the arm for emphasis. "You gotta think outside the box like that!" 

Was she complimenting him? And touching him?

Hux had only been in her presence twice now, but he didn't think he would meet another being quite like her. He had been reluctantly impressed by her ingenuity and fearlessness on the Supremacy. It's why he requested her as his contact. That, and the scar he now sported on his right hand. He now found himself admiring her technical acuity as well. 

"Everyone has tried to find ways to cloak ships by making engine output invisible," she continued. "But you can't! It's wasted effort. But you can minimize it - find that sweet spot just outside sensor parameters. That's how I came up with the idea for the Baffler."

"That was your design?" Hux was shocked. He had no idea she had designed the cloaking device that the Resistance transports had used at Crait. It was crude but ingenious. 

"Yeah. Not that it worked," she replied with a frown.

"Only because that criminal betrayed you."

And, just like that, they were both reminded of who they were and the circumstances of their meeting. 

Resistance. First Order. Weapons. Betrayal.

Enemies. 

Rose was flustered. How had she let herself become so comfortable in his presence so quickly? He was a monster. He was Starkiller. His espionage for the Resistance didn't change that. Couldn't. 

"Well, um, I better go. See you soon. I guess." Rose was up and hurrying towards the airlock as she threw out her jumbled farewell. 

"Of course."

After she boarded her shuttle, Hux sat there for several minutes thinking about the puzzle that was Rose Tico. She intrigued him. 

And he did enjoy solving puzzles.

Chapter Text

"General, I prepared some broth for you. Try and eat a bit." Lieutenant Mitaka's voice pulled Hux's attention away from the holonews articles and reports he was studying on the datapad. He looked up to see his aide set a steaming bowl on the table in front of him.

After departing Tatooine, Hux had made the yacht's dining area his base of operations. He worried that if he returned to his quarters, he would be tempted to sleep again. Or that his lieutenant would drug him again. Knowing Mr. Mitaka was simply trying to keep him functional though, he did not reprimand him.

The lieutenant had done so in the past when Hux was lost in a project or recovering from a 'meeting' with the Supreme Leader. 

With that in mind, Hux acknowledged the lieutenant's service with a nod as he picked up the spoon. Instead of eating, though, he found himself staring apprehensively at the bowl. He had only had rations for the last five years. Not even the nutritive milk he often consumed in the First Order. Never someone who enjoyed culinary efforts, he felt trepidation at the thought of real food.

"You're not going to put any meat on your bones just by staring at it, Red."

Hux glanced up to find Rose's ancient enforcer sitting down at the table. Peli Motto, if he recalled Rose's rushed introduction correctly. He scowled at the undignified moniker, though the Motto woman appeared oblivious to his disapproval. 

"You are a tall drink of water, but you're too skinny. Ladies like something solid to grab onto, you know what I mean?"

He did not. 

Hux desperately wished for Rose's presence, but he knew she was on the bridge with Lieutenant Connix. Looking around, it appeared that Mr. Mitaka had deserted him as well, leaving him alone with this woman.  

Perhaps if he ate, she would leave him in peace.

"So you're Gigi's dad. I see where the kid gets the hair from, even though hers is more auburn than orange. Didn’t picture you with a beard, though. I like it. Fuzzy."

Perhaps not.

"But you don't really seem like Rosie's type."

At that, Hux looked up from the broth with a frown. "How would you know that, madam?" It suddenly occurred to him that, unlike Hux, Rose had an opportunity to have had relationships in the last five years. 

And she thought he was dead. 

It was not a pleasant thought.

"Oh, he talks," she quipped. "And look at that frown! Gigi gets the same look when Rosie tells her no."

"Gigi?"

"The womp rat."

"Pardon?"

"Gaia!"

Did she just call hi-, the child a womp rat? Hux was indignant, but he had no intention of discussing the girl with this person before he had even done so with her mother. And he was reluctant to even do that. His focus for now had to be her safe return to Rose.

And whatever he needed to do to accomplish that. 

"Yeah, you're not really like I pictured you at all. Less evil, more, I don't know, bureaucrat? Although all the bureaucrats I knew were evil. Safety code violations! Please!"

"Madam-"

"Okaaaay, then, we'll be at Eiram shortly. I told Kaydel to watch out for the ion storms just in case," Rose announced as she entered the dining area. She eyed the pair at the table as if she couldn't decide whether to be delighted or horrified.

"I'll go give her another pair of eyes," Ms. Motto offered as she stood and walked away. "I've been dyin' to see the bridge on this baby. Have you seen all the modifications to the hyperdrive, Rosie? I don't know what idiot installed that motivator, though." Her rambles continued until she was out of earshot.

"She's a little quirky," Rose shrugged when they could no longer hear the older woman. "But she's completely devoted to Gaia, and I don't know what I would have done without her all this time."

Like she had done without him.

"Indeed." Hux looked down at the broth only to find the bowl empty. He had somehow finished it without noticing. 

"How's your neck?" Rose asked as she leaned to the side to get a look at the wound. "Did Mitaka put a patch on it?"

"I told him it was unnecessary."

"Hux! I'll be right back. Let me grab a medkit. Don't move!" she ordered.

He recognized that tone and decided that cooperation was the easiest, and wisest, choice. Hux imagined Rose used that voice quite effectively with her daughter. He immediately tried to quash that thought and all the images it produced. 

He had one objective, and he could not accomplish it if he was distracted by such intrusive thoughts and emotions. 

"Here we go." Rose returned with a cloth, spray, and bacta patch. "Lean forward," she ordered as she reached for his head.

Bent forward, Hux could only see her legs and feet as she cleaned the wound. He couldn't prevent his muscles tensing as she touched him.

She paused. "Sorry. I forgot. Do you want me to stop?"

"No. Proceed." Hux recalled the second time Rose had ever touched him - the circumstances were surprisingly similar. He had tensed then, as well. But Rose had gentled him. Tamed him - like a feral fox. And tamed beasts, Hux knew, usually ended up in cages. 

He had.

His muscles slowly relaxed as she sprayed the disinfectant and applied the bacta patch, though he kept his head down. Hux intuitively knew that if he looked in her eyes while she was in his personal space and touching him, he would be lost. Emotions, not logic, would then guide his decisions, and he could not, would not, allow that. 

Not this time.

He realized that Rose had finished her ministrations and was now softly stroking his hair. Hux needed to pull away, but it felt so kriffing good. A moment. Surely, he could have a brief moment. For a man who avoided touch most of his life, five years without Rose's had turned him into a beggar. 

Giving into temptation, he leaned forward a fraction more until his head was resting against Rose's chest. Her fingers stilled for a brief second before continuing their caress at his nape.

"Starlight. Snowgrape," she said quietly. 

At that, he did look up into her face.

"The last transmission you sent me," Rose reminded him, though it wasn’t necessary – he vividly remembered. 

"Our meet-up location and my codename. I thought it was an incomplete or interrupted message since it didn't mention a day or time to meet. Everything was happening so fast by that point. But that's not what you were doing, was it?" she searched his eyes as she asked. 

"Snowgrape is your passcode for the files, isn't it? And starlight was their location. And I already had the code cylinder even though I didn't realize it. You gave me everything I needed to access those files years ago. Why?"

Rose searched his eyes as if the answer to her question could be found there. As if everything hinged on that answer as well. Why?

Hux leaned back, breaking their contact, and averted his gaze. He did not want to have this conversation right now. Maybe ever.

"You're too intelligent for dumb questions," he scoffed.

"You trusted me," she said as she grasped his chin and pulled his eyes back to her.

How many times would they reenact this pose, Hux mused. Only now, it was Rose standing over him in a position of power. That was misleading, though - Rose had always had power over him.

"Those files would have been insurance for you. You could have bargained with the Coalition. Maybe even gotten out prison." She regarded him with disbelief. And something else Hux refused to name. "But you gave them to me."

"Information can serve as a weapon or a shield. I believed you would either employ or safekeep those files responsibly," he argued in his most reasonable voice, hoping she didn't look further.

"I didn't realize...it was all too much – I thought you were dead, and I just found out I was pregnant. The war was over. I can't believe I've had the access this whole time." Suddenly, she frowned and took a step back, releasing her grip. Hux breathed a sigh of relief at the distance – he needed his equilibrium back. "Wait. Did you think I had them and let you rot in prison anyway?"

Rose looked horrified at the realization. And angry. "I would never have done that. I promise, if I had known...kriff! Why didn't you just tell me? 'Hey, Rose, I've got a whole bunch of scary designs and death tech. Keep 'em safe for me, would ya?'" 

He responded to her sarcasm.  "Like you told me about your plans? For Dameron and the mission? Tell me, my dear, how long were you planning all this?"

Her face went from angry to serious in a flash as she held his gaze and spoke succinctly. "From the moment Poe told me you were alive."

Oh.

 "You're not going back to prison."

Hux was taken aback. So all of this wasn't just about saving her daughter. Rose was also determined to save him. 

She was still so naive.

"What will I do then?" he asked. It was the first time either had ever brought up the future, even in such vague terms.

It was Rose who looked away this time. "You're going to help me get Gaia back. After that, it's up to you."

In for a chip, in for an ingot, he decided. 

"And what will you do after she's safe? Where will you go?"

The silence stretched for several moments before Rose finally answered. "I don't know yet. As soon as she was taken, I knew we couldn't go back to Tatooine. She wouldn't be safe. So now I have to figure out where we can go and how to protect us from the First Order and the Coalition."

He didn't tell her of his own plans to accomplish that – she would find out soon enough. 

Instead, he said, "tell Connix to head toward Barraza once we reach Eiram. It's a coastal city in the Northern Hemisphere. About sixty klicks to the west, she'll see some cliffs. Land there. Our destination is a short walk."

Rose looked a little confused at the seemingly abrupt change in topic, but commed her lieutenant with the instructions. 

"Affirmative," came the response. "Coming out of hyperspace in five."

~~

Starlight Beacon Medical Tower - 4 months before Exogol 

"I've got a soft spot for twin planets. Eiram and E'ronoh remind me of home. Hays Minor and Hays Major were twins too," Rose commented as she looked out the viewport to the planets in question.

Standing behind her, his chin resting on her head, Hux heard the wistfulness in her voice. The longing. He tightened his embrace. "I know."

"Oh, yeah. You do," she acknowledged before continuing in an artificially bright voice, clearly not wanting to dwell on why he was familiar with her former home. "Anyway, Paige and I wanted to find a system with twin planets to settle on after we were done traveling the galaxy. Who knows? Maybe we would've settled on Eiram."

"It has vast oceans. Similar to Arkanis. The population has to rely on massive desalination plants for freshwater. That's actually why the Republic sent the Starlight Beacon here in the first place - to help repair one of the plants that had been damaged by a cyclone." 

Rose still found it odd that Hux enjoyed studying history. Particularly that time period. It was full of romance and adventure as the Republic expanded into new sectors – usually referred to as the High Republic, after all. It seemed out of character for the man she first met. 

Although, possibly, not so much for the one she now knew.

"I wish I could take a tour of one and see the technology." Rose – always eager to understand the mechanics. She was never more content than when she had taken something apart and had all the pieces spread around her in what appeared to anyone else to be a chaotic jumble. Understanding how things worked was a compulsion for Rose.

Like puzzles for him.

"It's an interesting process," he commented. "Desalination is complicated and actually requires a significant amount of energy. Water and salt form very strong chemical bonds, and those bonds are extremely difficult to break."

"It amazes me, you know? All the technology that species have developed to survive."

And to destroy. 

She didn't say that part out loud, but they both heard it anyway. 

~~

Eiram was an unexceptional world. Really only mentioned in footnotes as the location of the Starlight disaster. Despite its proximity to a hyperspace waypoint, the planet was an insignificant dot on the Galactic Frontier. Ruled by a monarchy, it had briefly been part of the Republic, though it had become more isolationist in the last decades.

The insular planet had no ties to the Coalition or the First Order.

Rose had never been closer than the station module in orbit, and she was pleased to see that the planet was as lovely as she had imagined. Two large continents surrounded by vast oceans.

They followed Hux's directions and set down on the edge of a forest near the coastline.  Rose, Hux, and Dopheld set off towards the cliffs, while Kaydel and Peli ran some checks on the ship.  The trees reminded Rose of D'Qar and the walks that she and Paige used to take as they discovered a world of flora and fauna – so different from the barren landscape of Hays Minor.

After twenty minutes of hiking, Rose began to seriously question where Hux had stored the data files. Had he buried them in the woods like a ninny? Just as she was about to lose patience and ask him where the kriff they were going, the trees thinned out. 

There, perched just beyond the forest at the cliff's edge, stood a house. Rose let out a small gasp at the sight.

It was a beautiful, multi-leveled structure built of wood and glass. No, she corrected, not glass. Not on a planet that had cyclones. Transpariteel, then, like ships. The lines and angles of the building were simple and clean and blended surprisingly well with the landscape. 

The word, refuge, came to mind.

They approached the outer door, and Dopheld entered a code on the panel. Inside, Rose found herself in a large living area with comfortable seating for numerous people. The layout and furniture reminded her of Haysian design aesthetics. 

As both a reflection of their environment and out of necessity, Haysian design emphasized austerity and simplicity. The contrast with the lush landscape of the planet outside was both striking and pleasing.

As she followed Hux through the open layout of this level, Rose spied the kitchen and a dining area to the side. Panoramic windows displayed a breathtaking view of the ocean. They reached another room – a study or home office – with several terminals and communication equipment. She turned from her inspection of the room to find Hux standing in front of her with his hand extended. 

"The code cylinder?" 

Oh. She pulled it out of her pocket and gave it to him. "Will the files actually self-destruct after one unsuccessful attempt?"

Hux's arrogant smirk told her the answer before he could say it out loud. "No. Mr. Mitaka embellished that detail. The security program actually allows two attempts."

"You had a lot of faith in my ability to figure it out," she wryly observed. 

Hux only gave her one of those fleeting almost-smiles she remembered. So easy to miss if you weren't paying close attention.

"Lieutenant," he said, turning to Doph, "I need several data cards to transfer the files. Once I am done, we'll wipe the memory bank as a precaution. This will take some time," he directed Rose. "The files are quite large."

As Hux set to work, Rose decided to satisfy her curiosity and get a better look at the home. It had four levels, though the subterranean level was only for vehicles and storage with a small workshop attached. The upper two levels contained four bedrooms, freshers, and another, smaller sitting area.

She almost felt like she could be back on Hays Minor if it wasn't for the ocean view. Rose couldn't help but think how much her desert child would love the ocean. Thinking of Gaia laughing and running through the forest, Rose's arms ached at her daughter's absence. 

As she wandered, Rose appreciated the neutral palate of the home, although there were splashes of color here and there. The simplicity and asymmetry of the furniture and decor continued to remind her of her family's living pod on her home planet. When she stopped to admire a decorative bowl, she realized that it looked strikingly similar to a Haysian heirloom her grandma Etta had on display when she was a youngling. 

Rose stood and stared at the bowl for several minutes as her mind began to race.

When realization struck, Rose hurried down to seek out Hux. She found him leaning on his cane and staring out the windows in the great room. A room she inspected with a new awareness. 

"Hux, who owns this house?"

"You do," he answered without taking his gaze from the view.

Rose tugged on his sleeve to get him to face her. She couldn't have been more shocked if Palpatine returned. Again.

"What do you mean? You bought me a home? Why?"

"Because I was the reason you no longer had one." 

There was too much to unpack in that statement, so Rose focused on her more immediate questions. 

"But how? When?"

"After our conversation about twin planets. But the lieutenant did the majority of the work." Hux was clearly downplaying his own role. "I only visited a few times to complete the transaction and to set up the security and download the files."

Too many thoughts were buzzing around Rose's mind. She settled for the loudest one.

"It's too much. I can't accept this."

At this, Hux turned fully to face her. His face was set in determination.  "You can and you will. Our daught-." He stopped himself and took a breath. "You said, yourself, that you will need a safe place for you both. There are no known ties between either of us and this planet. And the Abditory is registered under a false name. No one will look for you here."

"Abditory?"

"The codename Lieutenant Mitaka and I used for the property."

He was offering sanctuary. Despite Rose's reflexive pride that told her she couldn't accept it, Gaia's safety and comfort had to come first. It was just too easy to picture her daughter here. Healthy and happy. Safe.

But where was Hux in that picture?

"I need to think about it," she stalled. "Once we have Gaia back, we can discuss it."

Hux appeared more than eager to postpone that discussion.  "Speaking of, we should return to the ship. How are you supposed to contact the First Order to inform them you have the files and acquire the coordinates for the exchange?"

"I'm not," she countered. "We're supposed to meet them on Castilon in less than two days. I didn't trust Poe or Finn enough to tell them."

"Nor me, apparently."

Hux and Rose had always been experts at omitting to tell each other things. Thoughts. Plans. Feelings. They had navigated their relationship much as you would an asteroid field – one wrong turn away from destruction. And with a tight grip on the controls. Always trying to anticipate a collision. 

It seemed they were still doing so.

"You always told me I overshared," she snarked before attempting a dreadful imitation of Hux. "Trust someone with a blaster before you trust them with knowledge." Ugh, how did his mouth move to form that pompous accent? "Anyway, I listened."

"Good girl."

He needed to stop saying that. 

"Sir, the memory wipe is complete." Doph emerged from the other room holding several data cards. 

"Good. We need to go. Castilon isn't far, but we have to stop at Takodana first." Rose briefly wondered if she would see this home again, but she had to stay focused. 

They were so close to having Gaia back now.

Back on the Lady Luck, Rose explained that they needed to ditch the ship. It was too recognizable and probably too large to land on the designated Castilon platform anyway. She believed they could quickly procure a new ship on Takodana, and Maz could see to it that Lando got his ship back. The Lady Luck and its modified hyperdrive had served its purpose. Peli had been distraught that she couldn't tear apart the engine, but they all understood that stealth was more important than speed now.

Rose and Doph were busy gathering everyone's belongings and making certain they left nothing on the ship that could be used to trace them. Peli was in the galley, while Hux carefully wiped the navigation records of the last several days from the ship's computer.

Since retrieving the files and visiting the house, her house apparently, Hux had been even more taciturn than usual. She caught him staring intently at his datapad several times. She recognized the look – he was trying to solve a puzzle. 

At one point, she stopped and scrutinized him. Hux looked better than he had a couple days ago. He wasn't as pale after the rest and food, but she still noticed occasional grimaces that signified pain or discomfort. She saw him massaging his temple several times but didn't know if he had a headache or was trying to focus his mind. 

Rose also let herself take in his whole appearance for the first time since his arrival. Doph had trimmed his hair and beard, and she remembered how soft his hair felt when he allowed her touch earlier. She couldn't help but wonder what his beard felt like, and her hand almost itched to find out. 

He looked softer than when he was General Hux, despite the fact that he was wearing black again. Dopheld had found him clothes that closely resembled his old uniform in cut and color, though the material and knitting were not as crisp.

It was like looking at a blurred image of someone on the holonet.

And he still seemed diminished. Hux took up less space than he used to. General Hux commanded his environment. This version appeared intent on not leaving a footprint. He was being careful, Rose thought. But she didn't know why.

She pondered over possible reasons later as she tracked him down in his quarters. Dopheld had gotten Hux to eat some of the stew Peli prepared and then convinced him to rest for a bit. Rose didn't buy it, and she was right. Entering the cabin, she found him focused on the datapad again. When he saw that it was her rather than Doph, he quickly set it down on the bed beside him.

"Came to check your neck and see if you need a new patch," Rose declared before he could ask about her presence. 

"I believe it's fine, but proceed." He tilted his head forward, and Rose moved to stand by the bunk. After finding it satisfactorily healing, she was about to step away when she looked down. There, on the datapad, was Gaia's image.

"Oh."

Hux looked up to find her gaze on the datapad before he, too, glanced at the screen. They were both silent for several minutes, until he finally spoke.

"She's beautiful."

"She is," Rose agreed. Looking back at Hux, she saw the haunted need in his eyes. Questions that he couldn't bring himself to ask. Wouldn't allow himself to voice. She picked up the datapad and sat down next to him. "And smart. So stubborn. I don't know where she gets her confidence from. And dramatic. I do know where she got that."

"I'll get her back to you," he repeated his promise. She could hear his resolve.

"I believe you."

"And I will make sure you're both safe." This time, there was an edge to his voice. An underlying tension that hinted at something unsaid.

Rose's independent nature urged her to remind him that his responsibilities ended with Gaia's return. She was also suspicious of whatever he was obviously keeping from her, but before she could say anything, Kaydel's voice came over the comm.

"Takodana in ten."

"Acknowledged," Rose replied as she stood. "Well, say goodbye to luxury."

~~

A short while later, Rose found herself leading her entire crew into Maz's rebuilt castle. Though not as large as it had once been, it remained an impressive structure, and its cantina was still its hub for activity. 

Rose had tried to convince Hux to stay on the Lady Luck for fear he would be recognized, but he had insisted on accompanying her. She didn't know if it was distrust or concern for her safety, but he was here, once again in his hooded cloak. 

At the entrance, Kaydel grinned in delight at the cacophony and chaos of the packed cantina. Doph, on the other hand, appeared overwhelmed as his wide eyes flew around the room, trying to take everything and every being in.

"Peli Motto!'

Rose turned to find Maz strolling across the cantina with a smile.

"Maz, you old pirate. It's been ages!" Peli replied as they embraced. Rose recalled Peli's stories of Maz's occasional trips to the Mos Eisley port in years past. They all seemed to involve sabacc, whiskey, and firearms. Usually at the same time. 

"Are you calling me old, old woman?" Maz laughed. "What are you doing off Tatooine? Blink twice if you've been kidnapped."

"Gal's gotta give the rest of the galaxy a chance at this, ya know?" Peli joked as she pointed to herself. 

"Still dating Jawa's?"

"Still crushing on Wookies?"

Both women laughed as Maz gestured for them to follow her. "Come. Come, let's get a drink." She motioned to the bartender once they were seated.

"Kaydel. Rose. I see you have guests," Maz commented as she eyed Hux and Doph. "But where is the little one?"

"That's why we're here, Maz." Rose spent the next few minutes telling Maz about Gaia's kidnapping and the Coalition's betrayal, though she kept from mentioning Hux’s presence or involvement. Maz was neither blind (despite the goggles) nor dumb, but Rose wouldn't chance giving away his identity in a crowded bar.

"So we need a ship," she finished. "A clean one. And cheap. We can't afford much."

"Yes, we can." Hux’s voice startled her as she watched him push a credit chip across the table. His voice had been quiet, and it was doubtful that anyone beyond the table had heard him, but it still made her nervous.

Maz regarded the hooded Hux for several minutes before nodding an acknowledgement. 

"There's a ship that I think will work - an Allanar N-3. Heavily modified. Its captain, a Duros, has been hanging around, hoping to find a buyer. I've checked it out - good condition and reasonable price," she said as she nodded toward Hux’s credit chip. "He is desperate to pay off some debts, so he'll jump at a fast deal with no questions."

"Thanks, Maz." Rose was relieved as she addressed the others. "Kaydel, can you negotiate a price? Peli, check the ship out and make sure it can do the job. Doph can get our belongings transferred onto the new ship."

Maz led the three over to a Duros at the bar. Rose almost smiled when she noticed that Peli had taken both her glass and the pitcher of ale with her. Instead, she turned to Hux with a frown.

"Where did you get that credit chip?" She could hear her own suspicion. 

"The files weren't the only items stored on Eiram."

That didn't fully answer her question, but before she could demand further explanation, Maz returned to the table.

"What will you do after you have your youngling back? It doesn't sound like you can go back to the Coalition." Again, Maz looked hard at Hux. Rose was reminded that it was the First Order that destroyed her castle, though Kylo Ren had commanded that particular mission. "For several reasons."

"Yeah, I burned any bridges with Poe," Rose acknowledged. 

"That boy never heard anything he didn't want to hear. Maybe if Leia had more time with him…" Maz's voice drifted off as they all contemplated the 'what if's.' "But he's committed to the Coalition. Poe is a true believer."

"They're the most dangerous ones," Hux agreed before Rose could comment. 

"You would know, wouldn't you, General?" Maz made it clear that she had known his identity from the moment they entered. "You were a believer yourself."

As Rose quickly scanned the room to determine if anyone overheard Maz's use of that title, she heard Hux quietly affirm, "I was."

"What do you believe in now, I wonder?" Maz didn't seem to expect an answer, and Hux clearly had no intention of providing one. Instead, they sat in silence for a few moments regarding each other, while Rose awkwardly sipped her drink.

Eventually, Kaydel appeared back in the cantina and motioned for them to join her at the entrance. Her nod indicated that the deal had been successful. 

"Let me know if I can help, Rose," Maz said as they prepared to leave. "If I hear from our friend, I'll let them know what's happened."

Hux was reaching for his cane to stand when Maz abruptly walked over to him. Even seated, Maz still had to look up into his face as she adjusted her goggles.

"I have seen the same eyes in many different people throughout the years. So many beings reliving the lives of those that came before."

Hux appeared nonplussed by Maz's cryptic observations, but Rose could see the slight furrow between his eyes.

"And?"

Maz regarded him silently for a moment, before reaching up and softly patting his cheek twice. Hux visibly tensed, though Rose didn't know if it was because of the touch or because he was bracing himself for the answer.

"You do not have your father's eyes."

Chapter Text

Starlight Beacon - 5 months before Exogol 

Hux was late. This was out of character for him, and it set Rose on edge. As the minutes ticked by, she told herself that her anxiety was for the mission – for Hux, the Resistance spy. Definitely not for Hux, the man.

But over the last months of meetings and communications, she had, unwillingly and reluctantly, begun to think of him more as a  person than a general or spy. Paige wouldn't have been surprised. She had seen how her sister's insatiable curiosity led her to want to take everything apart to understand how it worked. Even people. And Rose's soft heart did the rest.

Finally, she heard the airlock engage. Hux strolled in a moment later. "Where have you been?" Her fear made the question sound harsher than intended.

"Apologies. I was unavoidably…delayed," he replied as he walked directly over to one of the medbay beds and stiffly sat down. Rose would have missed his grimace if she hadn't been watching carefully. 

"What's wrong?" she asked as she moved closer to him. She then noticed that he was holding his arm stiffly against his chest. "Are you hurt?"

"I'm fine, Commander." Another wince.

"C'mon, don't act like a laserbrain. You know I'll just keep asking and annoying you until you tell me." As a little sister, Rose was excellent at this tactic.

He did not like being called a laserbrain if she were to judge from the scowl he gave her. Her only reaction was a shrug. 

Hux finally conceded, "Ren was…displeased…after seeing a report on increased Resistance activity." 

It only took a moment for Rose to grasp what he was saying. Before she could think it through, she stepped into his personal space and began pulling off his coat. "How bad?"

"Just some broken ribs."

"Just?" she practically shrieked as she continued tugging on the coat.

"Commander!" She kept trying to remove the garment. "Rose!" The use of her name finally got her attention. "It is fine. I simply didn't have time to go to the medbay. I knew you were waiting."

"Oh." Rose paused. She needed to calm down and gather her thoughts. "Well, we're in a medbay, even if it is ancient. I'm sure there are bandages to stabilize your ribs until you can get to bacta."

"That's not necessary, Commander."

"You called me Rose a minute ago. And do I need to threaten you with being annoying again? My whining is quite impressive."

"Please, no." 

Hux was still somewhat shocked at her reaction to his injury as well as her determination to play medic. He couldn't recall the last time someone fussed over him. Lieutenant Mitaka could be solicitous, certainly, but that was his job, and they had clear boundaries.  "Fine," he finally conceded.

As Rose rummaged through a cabinet of supplies, Hux carefully removed his coat and outer tunic. She pretended not to notice when he slipped a blade from his sleeve and then unholstered his blaster, placing both within reach. 

"Undershirt too."

He obeyed with great reluctance. Hux rarely undressed in front of others. For numerous reasons. But the alarms that typically sounded in his mind on such occasions were oddly quiet around Rose.

Rose returned with some bandages to find Hux had complied. If asked, she would have described Hux as skinny before. There didn't seem much to him under his First Order uniform. But now she could see that he was wiry, with obvious musculature on his slender frame. 

It both frustrated and intrigued her that, with Hux, it was always what you couldn't readily see.

She saw the bruising on his chest when she looked down. 

But that wasn't all. 

Rose kept her face carefully blank as she noted the dozens of scars on his torso and arms. Something must have given her away, though – she never had a good Sabacc face.

"Ignore them," he ordered. "They're old."

"Training?"

He paused before he answered. "I suppose my father would have said it was training, yes."

Rose could find nothing to say to that. Her own childhood had been far removed from violence of any kind. She simply couldn't fathom how any parent could hurt their child. Much less to this degree.

"I'm sorry," was all she could think to say.

She was so sorry.

"Don't be. It's quite literally bacta down the drain." His dismissive tone made it clear that he did not want to discuss it, though a satisfied look flashed briefly across his features – as if he had shared some private joke.

"Well," she said in artificially bright tones. "Let's get you all wrapped up."

Wrapped? Like a present? Rose hated what invariably came out of her mouth when she was nervous. She was the Crowned Queen of Awkward Conversation. 

As she wrapped the bandage around his ribs, she felt the tension and stiffness in his muscles. Rose didn't believe it was solely due to the pain. Especially as she adjusted her position to get the bandages around his back and saw even more scars. Some looked like lashes.

Rose was becoming angrier and angrier on Hux's behalf – uncharted and unanticipated feelings. She was supposed to be angry at Hux.

Not angry for him. 

Finishing as quickly as possible, she tied off the bandages. "Thank you, Rose." It was the use of her name again that had her looking abruptly up. Only to find her face inches away from his. His eyes on her lips. She wondered if his lips were as soft as they looked. Fuck the Force! What was she thinking?

"Right! Well, I'll just put this away," she said as she gestured to the unused bandages. "Did you bring the Star Destroyer schematics? Better look at them and get back. Lots of things to do. Mechanical things."

Hux typically detested small talk and rambling. Yet, from Rose, it was…endearing? He couldn't help but admire how hard she tried. She pushed her thoughts and feelings out into the open in a way that was, strangely, brave. 

It was evident to Hux, he thought as he finished redressing, that Rose did not belong in the military. Or in war. 

Hux belonged to war. She belonged to peace. 

Rose should be somewhere riding fathiers, fixing ships, and raising a family.  

Of all his sins, he thought, his worst may have been making a soldier out of Rose Tico. 

They spent the next half hour uncomfortably discussing the schematics on the datapad. Both were conscious of hands and arms and Not Touching. Looks were fleeting and awkward. When they could take no more, Hux stood to leave.

"You know, you should think about armor or something if that keeps happening with Ren," Rose suggested. "My dad used to talk about some ore that was even supposed to be lightsaber resistant."

"Indeed," he acknowledged, though Rose didn't think he would pursue the idea. Stubborn man. Before he reached the airlock, she called out, unable to stop herself. 

"Hux! You know, a real father wouldn't do that. A real father would protect. No matter what."

"Indeed." 

And then he was gone.

~~

Hux had barely spoken since departing Maz's castle. Only a few words as they readied the new ship for takeoff and stored their gear. He seemed preoccupied as they made the short jump to Castilon. He rebuffed the few attempts she and Dopheld made to engage him, as Kaydel once again took on pilot duties and Peli tinkered with the engine.

It was a good ship. A little smaller than the Falcon but almost as fast. They arrived at Castilon with eight hours to spare thanks to the sophisticated hyperdrives of both Lando's ship and this one. It was decided that they would orbit one of the moons rather than land. Being able to observe the Remnant's arrival would give them more of a tactical advantage than scouting the platform designated for the exchange. 

Castilon was an ocean planet dotted by islands and several submerged structures that served as refueling stations or loading docks. Close to the Western Reaches and the Unknown Regions, it made sense for the First Order to choose the planet for the meet-up. 

Once in orbit with the autopilot engaged, Kaydel, Peli, and Dopheld retired to one of the two crew compartments to rest. They needed to be rested and ready for the exchange. Hux continued gathering information from the holonet, and Rose grew increasingly agitated. 

She was so close to having her daughter back in her arms, but what then? What would Hux decide to do? Should she take Gaia and disappear into the Unknown Regions or should they settle into that beautiful home on Eiram? Would she and Hux finally talk?

It was all too much, and Rose worried that she was jinxing the mission by even thinking about the future.

As the designated time approached, they made last minute preparations and plans. Each time Rose glanced at Hux, she found him watching her intently. As though he was trying to memorize her. His face, though, remained inscrutable. For now, she had to stay focused on the mission, but Rose was determined to talk to him once Gaia was safe.

They decided that Rose and Peli would be the ones to conduct the exchange. Rose, for obvious reasons, and Peli because she wouldn't be seen as a threat and was, thus, an advantage. Hux would stay concealed, but be close enough for back up if necessary.  Doph and Kaydel would guard the ship and keep it prepped for a quick escape.

They landed on the designated platform – it appeared to be used for automated ship-to-ship cargo transfers. At the moment, though, there was no other activity. As they exited the ship, Hux instructed everyone to keep comms open but to avoid chatter unless it was urgent.

As Rose entered the storage bay with Peli, she counted three men, all armed. One stood slightly out front - the apparent leader.

He had dark hair and dark eyes, average height and build, with the nondescript looks of someone who could easily fade into a crowd.  To Rose, he seemed vaguely familiar, though she couldn't name where she had seen him before. Perhaps in a report during the war.

Rose did not see Gaia, and her stomach dropped.

"Where is she?" Rose demanded. 

"The files first, Ms. Tico."

"No." Hux had been very clear in their planning discussions.  Rose was not to show the data cards until Gaia was handed over to her. "Bring Gaia to me now. You get nothing until I see her."

The leader glanced back at one of the men and ordered, "bring the girl."

The latter man disappeared through a door close by. A few moments later, he re-emerged followed by a female in a First Order uniform and Gaia, holding her hand.

A massive wave of relief crashed into Rose at the sight of her daughter. A quick visual inventory assured her that Gaia was apparently uninjured and well.

"Mami! Peli!" her little girl exclaimed as soon as she saw them. She tried to tug her hand free from the officer, but the soldier held firm and said something quietly to her. Gaia frowned but stopped trying to pull her hand away.

"You can see she is unharmed," the leader remarked and stretched out his hand. "The files. Now."

It seemed clear that they would not release Gaia until they had the files in hand. Rose reached into her pocket and removed the data cards. Stepping forward, she placed them in his grasp. "Here. Now give me Gaia and let us leave."

"I knew you were a smart woman. I can see where your daughter gets her intelligence," he remarked. 

Rose's relief at seeing Gaia was replaced with a growing dread. Something was off. They had yet to release her daughter and seemed in no hurry to do so. The leader continued. "Although I do see so much of her father in her. She is a true Hux – little Gaia was ordering our officers within a day of being with us." He was smirking at Rose now. She shifted her arm slightly and felt the reassuring weight of Hux's mono-molecular blade.

Hux and the others could hear everything over her comm, and she tensed as she prepared for a fight. They had discussed this possibility – Peli's job was to grab Gaia while Rose and Hux covered their escape. 

"You have his files. Just let me take her and go."

"Ahh. Yes," he sighed. "We have Hux's files, but it's really a poor substitute for his mind and vision. Perhaps a third generation of Huxes could also contribute to the First Order. Tradition is very important to us."

"Give me my daughter," Rose demanded again. 

At this, the leader gestured for the female officer to bring Gaia forward. Once they neared him, he grabbed her and pulled her close. Rose watched in horror as he aimed his blaster at her little girl. He turned angrily back to Rose, "or perhaps little Gaia should pay the price for her father's betrayal of the First Order."

Time seemed to stop as Rose frantically ran through scenarios to save Gaia. She tensed, ready to attack, when Hux suddenly materialized beside her, blaster drawn and aimed at the leader's head. She had no idea how he had moved that fast or that quietly. 

"Harm my daughter, Opan, and Brendol's death will seem peaceful compared to what I do to you."

Rose couldn't breathe. The man, Opan, apparently, still had his weapon trained on Gaia. He was obviously shocked to see Hux, but anger quickly replaced the officer's surprise. 

"Well, well. You are alive," he drawled. "There was occasional noise, but Intelligence could never substantiate the rumors. I can't say that I am shocked, though. You always did know how to survive, Hux."

The observation did not sound like a compliment. 

"That's General to you."

"Is it?" Opan scoffed. "Seems to me that you lost rights to your rank when you turned traitor."

Rose had no idea what to do. Hux wasn't attacking. Was he waiting for a signal from her? She could hardly think of anything but the blaster aimed at her daughter. 

Rose desperately hoped that Hux had a plan.

"I no more betrayed the First Order than you did," Hux countered in his most arrogant voice. "I was trying to save it. You know Ren had to be stopped. As did that lunatic calling himself the Emperor. They were destroying everything we built in the First Order. Religious zealots, all of them. Even Snoke. I only did what was necessary to save the cause."

What in the Force was Hux saying? This was no time to debate his wartime actions and motivations. Was he stalling for time?

Rose didn't understand why he was claiming that he was loyal to the First Order. None of this was making any sense to her already stressed and overwhelmed mind.

"You were working for the Resistance!" Opan accused.

"Then why have I been in a Coalition prison for the past five years? I have absolutely no loyalty to those fools," he sneered.

Rose's confusion only grew. What did any of this matter? They just needed to grab Gaia and go. Escape.

"You expect me to believe you're loyal to the First Order?" Opan's skepticism echoed Rose's own. Hux had been outed as a spy and shot as a traitor. Why was he wasting precious time arguing with the other man?

"No, I expect the Supreme Council to believe me."

At that, Opan laughed outright. "You actually think I would take you back to the Remnant and not kill you right here? You have nothing we need," he continued. "Not anymore."

At that, Opan aimed his blaster at Hux, and Rose could breathe again. Surely, this must have been Hux's plan – to distract Opan's attention away from Gaia and to give Rose time to act. She had just started to slip the blade handle into her palm when Hux's next words stopped her cold. 

"It's not there, you know." Hux’s tone sounded casual, as if he was simply discussing the possibility of rain.

Opan looked immediately alert at Hux's statement.  "What are you talking about?"

"The file you want. The designs. They're not on the data cards."

What was Hux saying? They had transferred all his files to the data cards. 

Hadn't they?  

But she hadn't been in the room when Hux transferred the files, so she couldn't say for certain. 

Rose suddenly felt like she might throw up. It was always what you couldn't see with Hux, she thought. This is what he had been keeping from her. He had betrayed her and endangered their daughter. For what?

To rejoin the First Order? Why?

"You don't know-" Opan blustered, but Hux cut him off. 

"The Empion mine designs. They're not there."

For a moment, Opan looked at the data cards in his hand as if trying to determine whether Hux was bluffing. Rose silently pleaded to the Force – please let Hux be bluffing. 

Let her be wrong.

"Where are they?" Opan looked up and demanded, once again raising his blaster at Hux. 

"Here," he answered with a gesture toward his head. "And if you want them, you will take me to the Supreme Council."

"How could you even know we still have a Supreme Council?"

Hux sneered. This was not her Hux. This was the First Order General she had met on the Supremacy and at their first clandestine meetings. Had he fooled her this whole time? Were Poe and Finn right? Her heart denied the possibility, despite what her ears heard.

"Because all the reports I have read over the last few days told me that most of the former Council were casualties on the Steadfast or in the Uprising. I'm willing to wager that none of the surviving Senior Officers were strong enough to take sole command as Supreme Leader. Am I correct?" Hux's tone was officious, as if he was reprimanding a junior officer. 

She supposed he was.

Opan looked sheepish in response to Hux's analysis. He lowered his blaster slightly and seemed to take a more deferential tone. "There's been infighting," he grudgingly admitted. 

Perhaps Opan was seeing what Rose had. Standing before them was General Hux of the First Order. 

Ruthless strategist. Commander. 

If Rose thought she and Peli could successfully grab Gaia and run, she would have in that moment. But the chances of her daughter getting hurt in a rushed escape were too great.

"Which is why you need me, and why you will escort us to the First Order Remnant."

"Us?" Opan looked almost as confused as Rose.

"My daughter and my...Ms. Tico. As well as the other members of our crew. You will be pleased, Commander Opan, to know that your fellow officer, Lieutenant Mitaka, helped Ms.Tico to find me and to release me from prison."

No. 

Hux wouldn't do this, Rose thought. She might have believed that he would return to the First Order, but he would have never dragged Rose and Gaia with him. She refused to accept it. Surely, Hux had a plan. He had plans within plans. Something else had to be going on here.

"Doph was always loyal to you, but she's Coalition." Opan gestured to Rose as he responded. Unexpectedly, he seemed to be actually considering Hux's proposal. 

"Ms. Tico has no more love for the Coalition than you or I. If anything, at least this little stunt of yours opened her eyes to their deception and corruption. Regardless, if you want those designs, we all receive safe passage."

Their daughter's kidnapping was a little stunt? Rose had enough. She was about to give Peli the signal to pull out her concealed blaster – they had to try – when a voice came over Commander Opan's comm.

"Sir, we're tracking several ships entering the atmosphere. Looks like it could be Coalition."

"How many?" Opan demanded as he glared at Rose, clearly suspecting her involvement. 

"Three, sir, for the moment. Their flight paths indicate a scouting mission."

"Someone must have reported seeing the Lady Luck or us on Takodana," Hux surmised. "The Coalition probably sent ships to all the nearby systems looking for us.  We should depart before reinforcements are called."

"Commander Opan, we need to go," urged one of the other men in the room.

"Kill me now, and you don't get the mine designs," Hux interjected. 

"Alright. I'll take you to the Council, and let them decide what to do with you," he told Hux. "But you travel with us and under guard. Your daughter and wife or whatever she is will also be our guests to ensure your good behavior."

At that, Opan finally released his hold on Gaia and she came barreling into Rose. "Mami!" Rose scooped her up in her arms and crushed her to her body.

"Shh. Shh. It's okay. I've got you. It's okay." She continued clutching Gaia and murmuring assurances as Hux spoke again. 

"Agreed. I will have Lieutenant Mitaka bring our ship to the rendezvous coordinates. I presume you have a cruiser or carrier waiting for you in the Borderlands?"

"Affirmative. Position Krill Nern. A light cruiser, Archer, is waiting there."

"Did you copy that, Lieutenant?" Hux asked into his comm.

Dopheld responded immediately.  "Yes, sir. Departing now. Coalition X-Wings incoming to your location. ETA four minutes."

Wait. They weren't even going to try to make a run for their own ship? Rose couldn't believe this was really happening. 

Suddenly, she and Peli were being rushed through the storage bay and into a nearby hangar where a First Order shuttle sat waiting.

"Engage those fighters." Opan ordered as they hustled aboard.

"Belay that," Hux countered. "They have had time to call for reinforcements, and I assume we have no TIE support. Run for the black and jump to hyperspace as soon as you're clear." 

Rose was astonished. The First Order crew responded to Hux's orders as if he had always been in charge. 

Had he? 

Opan headed toward the shuttle's bridge, and Hux turned to follow. 

"What are you doing?" Rose hissed as she grabbed his sleeve to stop him, still holding Gaia to her with the other arm.

"Not now, Rose. Strap yourselves in." He continued to move away.

Not once had Rose seen him glance at the little girl in her arms. Not in the cargo bay and not here.

"But…"

"Not now." And then he was gone. Rose looked to Peli in confusion, but the older woman only shrugged and sat down. Bemused and unable to think clearly, Rose followed suit.

"Mami, where we goin'? Are we staying with my friends?" Rose looked down at the little girl in her lap as she strapped them into the seat.

"Your friends?" Rose was bewildered and couldn't seem to understand what Gaia was saying any more than she could process what Hux was doing. All she knew was that instead of rescuing Gaia from the First Order, they were joining them. 

None of this made sense.

"We had fun. I cried for a while 'cause I missed you. And Peli," her daughter explained with a smile at Peli.

"We missed you too, you little womp rat," Peli assured her. 

"But Lus'ca was nice, and she took care of me. And we played with her friends and they let me be in charge! They called me their Little Gen'ral."

"They did?" Rose asked faintly. 

This was not happening. 

"Uh huh. They were so silly. But they wouldn't call me Gigi even after I ordered them to. And they kept calling me Gaia Hux even when I told them that was not my name," the little girl complained with a frown almost identical to her father's. 

"But they were nice to you? You weren't afraid?" Rose had been subtly running her hands up and down Gaia's little frame, assuring herself that her daughter was fine. At least physically. 

"At first, I was." The little girl looked sheepish at her admission.  "But then I decided to be brave like Auntie Pae Pae.  And you always said most beings will be nice to you if you're nice to them. So I was. And they were nice back, mami." At this, Gaia leaned back against Rose and relaxed, secure in her mother's embrace and blissfully unaware of Rose's own turmoil over their circumstances. 

"Three hours." Hux made that announcement and quickly disappeared again. 

He still had not spared a glance at his daughter. 

Rose was afraid to consider the implications of that.

"Who's that man, mami?" her daughter asked with a yawn.

"I'm not really sure."

Chapter Text

Hux spent his time on the First Order shuttle conferring with the pilot and officers. Opan remained close by, but other than scowling, did not intervene after confiscating Hux's blaster.

Hux knew that image and perception were everything in the Order. He had, after all, been heavily involved with both its propaganda machine and training programs. He understood the mindset of First Order soldiers. And, currently, he needed those soldiers to recognize his authority as a loyal First Order General. They would pass on their observations to their comrades and they would then do the same. 

Nothing spread in a fleet faster than gossip.

If he acted like First Order General Hux, the troops' military training meant they would treat him as such. And beliefs inevitably followed behavior. 

Clearly, they had heard the confrontation between Hux and Opan over comms. He fielded several careful questions about his imprisonment. Hux’s inherent reticence was outweighed by his need to spread a specific narrative. 

So he referenced Sunspot and his treatment while describing how Rose and Lieutenant Mitaka had rescued him. He was rewarded with discreet smiles of pride when he explained how they duped the Coalition. 

For his plan to protect Rose and Gaia to succeed, he needed the First Order to embrace them. He mentioned how she bested the pilot who led the attacks that destroyed Starkiller Base and the Fulminatrix – most of the First Order's personnel knew friends, colleagues, or even family who had perished in one of those attacks. Even Opan paid attention to that part of Hux's story.

Commander Opan was Hux’s most pressing concern at the moment. He had served on Hux’s staff and had assisted in disposing of his General's rivals and enemies. Literally.

Poison was usually Opan's preferred method.

On Castilon, when he recognized Opan's voice over Rose's comm, his heart had stopped. Tritt Opan, he knew, did not leave witnesses. 

It also confirmed Hux's previous suspicions that it had been Opan who discovered the connection to Rose and Gaia. He had been one of the few staffers to have close access to Hux and one of only a very few who also knew about the files.  

Despite Opan's agreement to take them to the Remnant and his apparent grudging acceptance of Hux's authority, at least temporarily, Hux did not trust him. His prior loyalty to his General had been based only on fear and ambition. 

Speaking of trust, he knew that Rose was seething. They had no privacy on board the shuttle, though, for Hux to explain his actions. Even if they had, he doubted she would believe him – that this was the only way to protect her and Gaia.

Gaia.

He hadn't even allowed himself to really look at his daughter. He couldn't risk distracting himself from the objective - keeping them safe. If he was honest, Hux was also afraid – he feared becoming attached. If his plan succeeded, he would most likely be saying goodbye to Rose and Gaia.

He had done his best over the last several days to stay away from Rose for just that reason. The thought of parting from her again was already painful. Thus, he told himself that he needed to avoid getting any closer to her or their daughter.

Their daughter.

His daughter.

He hadn't even let himself think those two words together before today. But now that he had spoken them, he couldn't stop thinking them.

It was still difficult for Hux to even accept that the child existed. He had never planned on becoming a father and had always been scrupulously careful. He had a theory of how it happened, though he would need Rose to confirm it.

But that would mean talking to her about their daughter, and he had no intention of opening that door any further. He wasn't certain that he could shut it if he did.

He recalled the small body clinging to Rose – she was a petite child, it seemed, having inherited Rose's stature and his slender frame, though she was still obviously growing. In the datapad images, he had seen a delicate face with her mother's eyes, her father's mouth, and a slight sprinkling of freckles. Auburn hair that was darker than his own but styled like Rose's. An effortless melding of them both.

But he needed to maintain distance, he reminded himself. Otherwise, how could he do his duty?

Hux could no longer avoid Rose once the shuttle rendezvoused with the cruiser, Archer, in the Borderlands. Indeed, he needed to do the exact opposite. It was imperative that the First Order see that Rose, Gaia, and even the Motto woman were under his protection. That they were his family.

Thus, if his own authority and loyalty were respected, his reputation would do the rest to ensure their safety. There were times that it could be quite useful to be perceived as a 'rabid cur.'

Hux escorted Rose, who was holding Gaia's hand, off the shuttle followed closely by the old woman, Opan, and the other officers. Rose's flinch when he touched her back to urge her forward was a clear indicator of her mood.

They found the Archer's captain, along with several senior officers, waiting for them. A number of security personnel were present as well.

"General Hux, sir! I can't tell you how gratified we were to hear of your rescue. Welcome aboard the Archer."

Hux was momentarily relieved when he recognized the Archer's captain, Garrik Yarev. An older officer, Yarev had once been an Imperial like Hux’s father, though the two had never been on friendly terms. Yarev had always been a no-nonsense type of naval officer who favored pragmatism over ideology. 

It was a good opportunity to spread Hux’s desired narrative and to establish his authority. 

"At ease, Captain Yarev. It is a relief to be back with the First Order."

This moment was critical. 

If the captain accepted Hux's bluff, the rest of the crew would follow. 

So much of the First Order military machine was, in actuality, just image and stagecraft. No one understood that better than Hux. And, in fact, Yarev seemed eager to cooperate with Hux to create the desired perception.

"Of course, sir. We are all incredibly relieved that you have escaped the Coalition and made your way back to us," Yarev declared, choosing his words carefully. As if the Order's kidnapping of Hux's daughter had not been the catalyst for his return.

Grateful, Hux continued in his scripted role.

"As are we, Captain. But it has been a harrowing experience for my family. Have them placed in the Visiting Dignitary Quarters and see that they are comfortable."

Hux's acknowledgement satisfied protocol and gave the captain permission to address the others. Bending down, he addressed Hux's daughter with a smile and a wink. "Miss Gaia, I am delighted to have you back. The crew were inconsolable at your absence."

"What's consolbul?" asked the little girl.

Ms. Motto answered, "it means sad, Gigi."

At that, Yarev straightened and introduced himself to the two women. "Madam. Ma'am. I'm Captain Yarev. At your service. We will get you settled so you can rest." The captain threw an apologetic look at Hux when he added, "sir, um, I was instructed that there needed to be guards."

Hux, once again, bluffed. 

"Quite right, Captain. After everything they have been through on my behalf, I would be reassured knowing that my family have guards to protect them. See to it."

"Yes, sir," Yarev agreed, again supporting the manufactured image Hux desired. "Are we expecting another ship, sir?"

"Affirmative. Lieutenant Mitaka is bringing my ship and should arrive momentarily. Inform Bay Two that they need to accommodate the vessel even if it requires rearranging the TIE's. And have the lieutenant report to me immediately upon docking."

He trusted that Mitaka wouldn't contradict any of Hux's claims, but he still wanted to speak with him as soon as he could. 

"Understood, sir."

"How long until we arrive at the fleet, Captain?" 

"Two days, sir. We'll have to drop out of hyperspace at least twice for readings, but the majority of the lanes and waypoints are loaded into the navigational system."

"Acknowledged. Have one of your officers show us to our quarters," Hux ordered. "I will meet you on the bridge shortly for an update and inspection."

Hux had two days to prepare and learn all he could before they reached the fleet. The captain seemed to be a good place to start.

"With a guard, sir," Yarev agreed with a look of apology. 

"I won't refuse the offer of an escort, Captain," Hux dismissed the guard as if it was of no consequence to him. 

As an officer guided them through the corridors, Hux paid careful attention to the security and crew, while doing his best to avoid Rose's glare. It appeared that the light cruiser was running with a full crew and stormtrooper contingent. He saw nothing to indicate depleted numbers, though it may have been more the result of the mission than the ship.

When they reached the designated quarters, Hux followed the three females in after noting the two guards left at the door. Interestingly, they were Security Bureau rather than stormtroopers - much less conspicuous. 

No sooner had the door slid closed than Rose turned on him and spat out, "what is going on?"

A quick glance at their daughter showed that she was looking back and forth between the two adults with intense curiosity. 

"Not now, Rose," he replied with a nod at Gaia.

"Hey, Gigi, is this the ship you stayed on with your friends?" Ms. Motto jumped in to distract the little girl from the building tension. Gaia nodded, though she didn't take her attention away from her parents. "Well, come on, show me around. I've never been on a ship this big," she added as she tugged a reluctant Gaia away. 

"It's okay, baby. Go with Peli for a minute," Rose urged. 

The girl finally acquiesced, "'kay. The bedroom and fresher are over here. The beds aren't as soft as home, Peli, but the fresher has real water!" 

As Gaia pulled the older woman into an adjoining room, Rose turned back to Hux with a glare, "well?"

"You can't return to the Coalition, Rose," he calmly replied. 

"That doesn't mean we have to stay with the First Order! There are other options. You promised to protect Gaia."

Rose looked betrayed – even more so than when she had regarded her former friends on Tatooine. There was little he could do to reassure her at the moment, though. 

"I am keeping my promise. I said I would get her back to you and that I would keep you safe."

"You! Not the First Order!"

"I am the First Order, Rose." 

It was one of the few truths Hux knew. Since his birth as the son of Brendol Hux, he had known his fate was tied to the Order. And when his mind reminded him of Kanata's words, he determinedly locked that memory away. He needed to be Brendol's son right now – the boy raised and trained to lead the Order. He just had to be better at it than Brendol.

"Did you plan this?" she demanded.  "You've been one step ahead since we got you out of prison. Is that it? Was all of this just a way to get you released? Did they take Gaia just to get to you? Did you know?" She was hurling her suspicions at him, her voice becoming increasingly louder and irate. 

Even if he could explain, he doubted she would listen to him in her current state. 

"Rose, stop! You're being irrational," he scolded. "I am doing what is best. You have to trust me."

"I really don't."

"I have never lied to you."

"No, you omit," she reminded him. 

"As do you." 

Hux could handle an angry Rose. There had been times he even provoked her just to see her temper riled. Angry Ewok and all. But Hux also knew what those supposedly adorable creatures were capable of when threatened. And he needed Rose to play her part instead of going on the attack.

He turned and took several steps, seemingly to end the conversation. He stumbled, almost falling, as pain shot up his leg. As predicted, Hux immediately felt Rose's hands as she tried to steady him. 

Her default was always compassion. He both admired and pitied her for it.

"Are you hurting?" she asked as she tried to take some of his weight. 

Hux took the opportunity to put his arm around her as he pulled her even closer. Briefly, he leaned in and whispered in her ear, "surveillance. For now, trust me." He then straightened and pulled away.

Rose's silence, as well as her quick scan of the room, told him that she understood his warning, though her glower made it clear that she was still angry. It was the hurt in her eyes that nearly did him in, though.

Fortunately, the door chime sounded just before Lieutenant Mitaka and Lieutenant Connix entered their quarters. Mitaka seemed flustered, while Rose's friend looked quite pleased.

"Sir."

"Any issues, Lieutenant?"

Hux was less concerned with Mitaka's response than what Rose or her friend might say. Mitaka would be aware of surveillance protocols and would follow his General's lead. At the question, though, he blushed furiously before stammering a reply.

"N-none, sir. Once I explained that...uh…" At the lieutenant's hesitation, the young woman stepped in. 

"Once Doph explained that I was his wife and not some Coalition spy, we were allowed to board," she explained. From her expression, the young woman appeared to find humor in the situation. 

Lieutenant Mitaka must have explained at least some of First Order culture and procedures to Ms. Connix on the way to meet with the Archer. She seemed quite willing to play along. Even eager. 

These Resistance types, even former ones, were always too impetuous and cavalier with their lives, Hux thought with derision. Constantly jumping into danger with a whoop of delight.

"What-" Rose was interrupted before she could voice her confusion. 

"KayKay! You're here!" Gaia shouted as she barrelled into the room and threw herself at the young woman. 

"Hey there, skittermouse," Connix responded as she picked the child up in her arms. "You've gotten so big! You'll be carrying me around soon."

The little girl was curious once she noticed Lieutenant Mitaka. "Who's that?"

"My name is Dopheld, miss. It is an honor to meet you."

"You sound like Lus'ca and my other friends here," Gaia giggled.

"Well, miss, we all grew up together," his aide explained to her before turning back to the General. "Security will bring our gear and bags once it's all been inspected. My, uh, wife and I were given quarters just down the corridor."

"You got married, KayKay?" Gaia asked with wide eyes. Hux noted that the little girl then looked over at him and Rose with what appeared to be speculation in her eyes.

Seeing this as a cue to exit, Hux ordered his lieutenant to stay and see that their gear was delivered and that they were all settled comfortably. And to keep an eye on Rose, though he obviously didn't say that part out loud. He wasn't an idiot.

"I need to speak with the captain," he informed Rose.

"Hey, Red, find out if he's single," the Motto woman called out as he reached the door. He rolled his eyes at the woman's brazenness before he felt a tug on his sleeve and looked down to see Rose.

"We need to talk," she urged quietly with a determined face.

"We will," he assured her before opening the door. "With me," Hux ordered one of the guards as he headed to the bridge.

Once there, Yarev invited Hux to the captain's adjacent planning room for a talk. As he followed the captain, Hux took note of the attention he received from the bridge crew – the suspicious faces were easily outnumbered by the curious ones.

Good.

"Please have a seat," Yarev invited. "Drink?" 

"No." Hux's mind was clearer than it had been in quite some time, and he did not want to dull it with alcohol.

"If you don't mind?" The captain gestured toward a decanter and, at Hux's nod, poured himself a drink before sitting. "It's good to see you again, General. Despite the circumstances." Yarev paused before adding, "you should know that I reluctantly accepted this mission."

So the good captain was already anticipating repercussions, Hux thought with satisfaction.

"Yet, you did accept it."

"Orders of the Supreme Council, you know," the older man explained before taking a drink. "If there are…consequences, I ask that you hold me personally accountable. The Archer's crew were simply following my command." At Hux's silence, the captain became visibly more nervous. "We also didn't know that the child in question was your daughter until she was brought onboard. Commander Opan only shared that information later."

"It seems that she was treated well while here." If the entire crew of the Archer knew Gaia's paternity, Hux thought, then it was certain the rest of the First Order knew as well. Or soon would. Gossip. While it did not alter Hux's plan, it could be more difficult to execute.

"Your daughter is quite an exceptional little girl, General," he praised. "In your place, I would wish to hold certain people… accountable."

"You presume, Captain, that I will have authority to ensure there are consequences. I am not currently on the Supreme Council. I may not even be in the First Order."

It was time to see where the captain stood. There would be no surveillance in the captain's quarters, and Hux needed him to speak freely. Yarev's attitude would be indicative of what Hux could expect from the rest of the fleet. 

"We both know you will be, sir. The First Order needs you. Pardon my language, but it's been a clusterfuck since Exogol."

Well, that was unexpectedly direct, but the observation was true to Yarev's frank nature.

"It is just as likely that I will be executed or imprisoned for treason," he reminded the captain, watching him closely. 

"No, sir," he plainly contradicted. "Rumors spread quickly after the Allegiant General shot you. I'd say about half the fleet, certainly the majority of younger officers and troops, cheered for what you did. They wanted nothing to do with those Sith fanatics and their undead corpse of an Emperor."

Yarev frowned at the mention of Siths. He drained his glass and poured another. It seemed that the captain was indicating that he was on Hux's side, but he needed to be certain. 

"And the older officers? You, for instance, Captain?"

Yarev's face became serious and he looked Hux directly in the eye as he answered. "A lot of the old codgers like me couldn't stand that little pissant, Ren. He was a brat, and he never respected the military. He certainly had no loyalty to the First Order. We may not have approved of your tactics, but we understood why you did it." He concluded, "if you hadn't, we'd probably be saluting those Sith fuckers right now."

Hux's own hatred for Kylo Ren and the Sith apparently resonated with the officers. They had accepted that it was the sole motivation for his treasonous activities. But Hux needed to push further.

"You served the Emperor before. He was Sith," Hux reminded the captain.

"I did. I was a young hothead who saw the order and discipline of the Empire without seeing the corruption." There was regret in Yarev's tone as he explained his loyalty. "And then Rax and Sloane convinced us that we could start over in the Unknown Regions - without the rot and mystical nonsense. But then came Snoke, and Ren, and Palpatine, and we were back where we started."

"There was a time when that kind of talk would have had you court-martialed. Or worse."

Yarev only laughed at Hux's observation. "Why do you think an old man like me is still a Captain? I joined to serve the Empire, sir. Not to serve the Emperor."

"Were they not one and the same, Captain?"

At his question, Yarev turned uncharacteristically sober once again. Despite his pragmatic and easygoing persona, Yarev clearly held deep convictions. "Not in my mind. My loyalty is to the flag, General, not to the person waving it. People can't be more important than the cause."

"I believe Gaia's mother would disagree with you," Hux countered, recalling Rose's argument with Dameron on Tatooine.

"Addition by subtraction, sir. The First Order has lost a number of so-called leaders over the years and been the better for it," Yarev argued with a pointed look at Hux.

Hux wasn't sure if he was referring to Ren or Pryde or possibly even Brendol Hux. Perhaps all of them. 

Though the captain had never spoken out – that type of interference was simply not tolerated in the Order – Yarev had always shown his silent disapproval and disgust for the way Brendol and his cabal treated the younger Hux.

"We've lost some good ones as well," Hux countered, thinking of Grand Admiral Sloane. 

At that, Yarev raised his glass in agreement. "And found one."

"We shall see."

"You have a wonderful family, sir. Your wife was very brave for rescuing you – Intelligence has reported that the Coalition is already furiously looking for her. There's even a bounty. No mention of you, of course," he added. Yarev leaned back in his chair with a smile. "You know, she's already started to become a bit of a legend for the crew since they heard of your escape. It also doesn't hurt that they adore your daughter."

Hux's faith in fleet gossip was proving correct. It was also apparent that the captain was, in fact, letting him know that he had his support. Yarev's references to his wife and family were deliberate, and Hux found himself in the uncomfortable position of being grateful to someone. 

It appeared that Hux had an ally, a strange concept for someone who had only seen others as tools or obstacles. 

Would things have changed, he wondered, if he had sat down and spoken frankly like this with other officers after Crait? Or even before? Post hoc hypotheticals were a fool's game, he knew, but the question still lingered in his mind.

"Agreed, Captain, and I have to protect them. Which is why I need to know everything I can about what I am walking into."

At that, the captain filled his glass for a third time and once again settled back in his seat. Looking thoughtful, he proceeded to explain.

"It really all comes down to two factions – the Isolationists and the Expansionists. After Exogol and the Uprising, a significant number of First Order personnel began advocating that we just forget about the rest of the galaxy. Leave the Coalition or Republic, or whatever they call themselves, alone and focus on settling in the Unknown Regions permanently. We protect ourselves, govern ourselves, and focus inward."

"Like the Chiss," Hux clarified.

"Quite," he agreed before frowning. "The Expansionists, however, want to rebuild and re-arm to invade and reclaim Coalition territory again. They're the hardliners who didn't learn their lesson and want another Snoke or Palpatine."

"Which is the dominant faction?"

"Neither. That's why it's a clusterfuck," he sighed. "I believe that the Isolationists are the majority - they're the younger troops I mentioned before. The ones that supported you. The older officers, who just want to peacefully retire, support the Isolationists as well. It's the senior commanders, like yourself, who still push for war."

"Where does Commander Opan stand?"

"Hard to say, sir. There are still a number of opportunists who will go the way the wind blows." His disgusted tone indicated how the captain felt about those officers. "But none of it really matters at the moment. The Coalition has been able to keep the pressure on us. We've spent most of the last few years dodging attacks – moving the fleet over and over. Until we can get some breathing room, it's really just meaningless debate."

"Difficult to be political when you're running for your life," observed Hux. At Yarev's nod, Hux determined that he had enough information to sift through for the night.  "Thank you, Captain. I will consider everything you have said. We will speak again."

As Hux stood and grabbed the cane, prepared to leave, Yarev made a request. "Permission to speak freely, sir?"

"Granted."

"You have a precious family, lad. Makes me wish I had made different choices myself. Do whatever you have to do to protect them. And know there'll be help if you need it."

Hux was thoughtful as he returned to the guest quarters, finding them dark and silent. With the sitting area deserted, he assumed that everyone had gone to sleep in one of the two bedrooms or nearby quarters. He couldn't blame them. He had often seen soldiers collapse – sometimes for days – after a mission when their adrenaline finally crashed.

Rose, in particular, had to be exhausted from the physical and mental strain of the past few weeks. He noted the empty trays that indicated a meal had been delivered. It must have been Lieutenant Mitaka's doing as there were a couple containers of nutritive milk presumably left for him.

After drinking one, Hux found that their bags and gear had also been brought to the rooms. He sifted through the go bag Mitaka had packed for him until he found suitable sleep clothes. He would need to see about obtaining a new uniform as soon as possible - it was necessary to look the part of a general - but this would do for now.

Checking the first of the two sleeping quarters, he found Gaia and Ms. Motto cuddled together in the bed. He had to battle the temptation to stand and watch the little girl sleep. To collect memories for later. But he forced himself to leave.

Rose was in the next bedroom and, here, in the darkened room, Hux allowed himself a moment. It was his first opportunity in five years to observe her freely.

She looked so much the same as she had five years ago. Soft and curved. So unlike him. The round, youthful face that made so many beings underestimate her – a mistake he had only made once. And she was even tougher and more grounded now. He attributed that to being a mother and single parent for the past four years.

He couldn't help but be reminded that Gaia was almost the same age he had been when he was taken to the Imperial Remnant. Now, here she was – another child dragged into the First Order for her father's skills. And his sins.

He would not allow her story to end the same as his.

He quietly walked over to the bed and sat. Rose was sleeping on her side, facing away. He laid down behind her, chest to back, and quickly covered her mouth with his hand. "Shhh."

She reacted immediately, and Hux found himself knocked on his back with Rose holding his mono-molecular blade to his throat. He wasn't sure how she had even gotten it past the security.

"Where's Gaia?" she hissed, looking around frantically. 

"Sleeping with Motto." Rose immediately relaxed and pulled the blade away at his assurance. 

"Oh, she must have gone in there after I drifted off. I didn't mean to," she admitted sheepishly. "She says I kick in my sleep."

"You do," he confirmed. Before Rose could reply to that remark, he told her, "now lay back down and pretend to sleep."

When Rose didn't move quickly enough, he tugged her down until she was once again on her side with her back against him. He preferred not to look in her eyes as they had this discussion.

"What are you doing?" Rose demanded. 

"Quietly," he admonished. "You wanted to talk. This is the only way we can for now.  The room is dark, so if we lay down and speak softly, anyone watching will think we are asleep."

Hux had not anticipated, however, what having Rose this close again would do to him. Feeling her softness pressed up against him. He wanted to pull her even closer. To bury his face in her neck and hear her sigh as he did so. Rose was the only person whose touch he ever craved. 

Once tamed, always tamed, he supposed.

Rose's whispered accusation brought him out of his musings. "Was this your plan?"

He would be as honest with her as he could. "Partially."

"Which part?"

"I intended to return to the First Order." He was very grateful to not see her reaction when he made that admission. He could, though, feel her muscles tense. 

Fight or flight?

"The file you talked about?"

"Leverage."

Rose paused a moment before asking, "and Gaia and me?"

"I meant for you to go to Eiram."

"Without you," she confirmed.

"That was my plan."

"So, what, this is your chance to rule the First Order?" He could hear the strain in her voice as Rose fought to keep herself from yelling. He expected her anger at his decision. "You finally get what you always wanted."

Rose had, apparently, chosen 'fight.'

"Not always."

She either dismissed his words or didn’t hear them. Rose's tone turned sarcastic, "so what went wrong with your grand scheme, General?"

"I recognized Opan's voice over your comm. I know him, Rose – he would never have let you and Gaia leave Castilon alive. I had to improvise."

"We could have fought." The vehemence in her tone reminded Hux of the Rose he first met on the Supremacy. Even at her most fierce, though, she too often waded into a fight with an electro-prod instead of a blaster. It was a weakness that Hux had to protect her from. 

"And then fight the Coalition as well?" Hux scoffed. "No, it was too dangerous. This was the only feasible option."

"This is not an option. We can't stay with the First Order Remnant. It's not safe for us."

"Actually, it is. So long as you are viewed as my…family, you will be protected and respected by the fleet." He detested his own hesitancy to use that word. And it was just a word, he told himself. 

For him, it could never be anything more. Anything real.

Rose lay quietly for several moments. Perhaps she, too, was affected by that word. Surely, she heard how ridiculous it sounded coming from him. Finally, she asked in a thoughtful tone, "is that why Dopheld claimed Kaydel was his wife?"

"Yes. He too grew up in Imperial culture, and I assume he explained protocols to her before they arrived," Hux surmised. "The First Order purports to be quite traditional in its attitudes toward family. As Gaia's mother, you should expect to be referred to and treated as my wife."

He felt Rose's sharp intake of breath. "I'm not your wife, and no one would believe we stopped and got married on our way to save Gaia."

"That's insignificant," he dismissed. "Appearances matter more here. Image. Everyone acted as if Maratelle was my mother. Except, of course, Maratelle."

Hux was well aware that those 'values' were only surface deep for many. His existence was proof of that.

"We still can't stay."

"You won't. Once we reach the fleet and I reestablish my authority and position, I'll be able to safely get you out." Hux wasn't sure whether that would entail an exit or an escape, but he would see it happen either way.

"But you'll stay?" Rose spoke in an even smaller voice, and he had to lean closer to hear. His beard brushed her neck and face, and he couldn't stop himself from breathing her in. Rose had always smelled like the wind coming off the ocean. Salty. Fortifying. Home.

"Why?"

Heartbreak, it seemed, had a sound.

In its presence, he retreated to the arguments that most beings would expect from him. "I have a responsibility to the people who are still loyal to the First Order. We have an opportunity to make it what it should have been."

"What about a responsibility to your daughter?" 

He should have known that Rose would not simply accept his answer. She had to take everything apart and understand it. So Hux added a little more truth to the truth he had already stated.

"If I am in command, I can prevent the Order from targeting her again. I can ensure that war never touches Gaia. That it never touches you again."

She lay silently for several minutes, and Hux began to wonder if she had fallen back asleep. They were beyond exhausted, after all.

"You can't do this," she finally whispered. 

Rose was so stubborn, and he was increasingly frustrated. Why couldn't she see that this is what needed to happen? Exasperated, he spat, "I belong to the First Order, Rose. I always have. There is no other place for me in this galaxy."

It was either the Order or a cage.

"There is," she countered. This time, he could hear the quaver in her voice and feel the shudder that passed through her as she tried not to cry. He despised hurting her, but Rose needed to accept that this was inevitable. 

There was no happy ending for them. No version where the galaxy allowed him to live a quiet life with Rose. To be a father. He was and would always be Starkiller. 

Hux had many faults, but at least he never shied away from the consequences of his actions. Never hid behind excuses. Or a mask. He accepted responsibility – just as he did with Snoke when Starkiller Base was destroyed. He understood the consequences for his decisions as General Hux. 

But he would not have Rose and Gaia carry that burden with him. They would be ostracized completely – one had only to remember the galaxy's response to the revelation that Princess Leia was Darth Vader's daughter.

He would not place his own child in the same position. 

"The traitor was right - I am not suited to be a father," he told her in a harsh whisper. "This is for the best."

"That's why you're really doing this," she pounced as if she had just been waiting for him to say it. "You are not your father, Hux. I bet you've got some laserbrained idea that Gaia and I would be better off without you. Force, you can be so dumb!" In her anger, Rose turned her head back toward him until she was whispering her tirade in his face.

He had somehow forgotten how perceptive Rose could be with him. While most beings simply accepted the facade he presented, Rose always looked closer. It was both comforting and terrifying.

"I have multiple motivations. Do not make so much of just one." His unwillingness to lie to Rose did not mean he wouldn't attempt to misdirect her.

She searched his eyes for a moment before repeating, "I won't let you do this. We won't."

He didn't know if she was referring to taking control of the First Order, sending her and Gaia away, or both. 

"There are some things you can't fight, Rose."

"That scar on your hand says different, Armitage."

He really should have known. 

Rose always chose 'fight.'

Chapter Text

Starlight Beacon - 4 months before Exogol

They had been reviewing tracker schematics on the datapad for the last hour, and it had been uncomfortably tense. In a way that she hadn't felt since their first clandestine meeting. 

That encounter had been stressful because she loathed him. This one was awkward because she didn't. Not anymore.

Since treating Hux's ribs, Rose had been more sensitive regarding their interactions. And she hated it. She was already socially clumsy – always saying what she thought and felt without much of a filter. But now she was overthinking everything she said or did around Hux. It was like trying to count the steps in your head while you danced, knowing you're just going to trip yourself up. 

She was as conversationally clumsy with him as with others. But, before his injury, she just hadn't been as embarrassed about it. In fact, she had never been around someone who listened to her with the intensity Hux did – as if she was the only person in the galaxy and he had unlimited time for her. It was a heady feeling for someone like Rose. More used to engaging with machines than people. 

Now, though, she was flustered. Avoiding eye contact and tripping over her words. Basically sounding like a moof milker. Rose's nerves were frayed, and she was about to call a halt, to put them both out of their misery, when an alarm began blaring from Hux’s comm.

"What's that?" she asked in concern as Hux moved quickly to the station's control panel.

"Proximity warning from my shuttle." He took a moment to check the readings in front of him before adding, "it's an ion storm. Moving extremely fast towards us."

Rose was immediately up and heading for her shuttle's soft dock. "We need to go."

"No time," Hux countered. "Our best option is to batten down. Shut down all systems on your shuttle. I need to shut down the module's life support or it could get taken offline by a strike." He typed commands as he spoke.

"We won't last long," she warned.

"We have two hours of oxygen. Additional tanks are on my shuttle if needed, but, judging from the size, it should pass in less than an hour."

He finished the shutdown protocols just as Rose noticed the edge of the ion storm through the viewport. The flashes of electrical charges were visible through the purple ion clouds. She grabbed one of the mattresses from a medbay bed and dragged it over near an inner wall.

"What are you doing?" Hux asked when he noticed Rose's actions. 

"Safer. In case anything gets knocked around."

"And the mattress?"

"The floor is going to get real cold without the temperature controls running," she reminded him as she sat down on the mattress, her back against the wall.

Hux joined her, sitting next to her on the mattress. As the temperature began to go down, Rose bemoaned not wearing her usual coveralls. They were warm and insulated but were also too conspicuous. She wore civilian clothes for their meetings to avoid being identified as Resistance. At least, she thought, as she began to shiver, she was wearing a sweater and warm pants suitable for space travel.

"Come here," Hux said, pulling her from her sartorial musings. "My coat is warm and large enough for both of us." He was sitting with his back against the wall and his legs spread in front, holding his coat open.

He wanted her to sit in front of him and share his coat? Rose stilled when she realized that she desperately wanted to do just that. Seeing her hesitation, he added, "come, Commander, Survival 101. Shared body heat and resources."

Well, she couldn't argue with that logic, right? Rose scooted over until her back was pressed against his chest and his legs were on either side of her. He pulled the coat around them both, effectively encircling her with his arms.

"Good girl."

Rose's mouth was suddenly too dry for the sarcastic reply he deserved. Which was just as well – she couldn't think of anything to say anyway.

They both sat in silence for several minutes as they adjusted to the closeness. Rose could feel his heart pounding against her back, although she was sure her own heartbeat outpaced his.

To distract herself, Rose watched the storm through the viewports. Space travelers typically avoided ion storms, so this was the first time she had ever seen one this close. The charged lightning was everywhere. She would have been frightened but for Hux's nearness. Here she was, in the middle of an ion storm on a derelict space station module, and she felt safe. More than at any other time recently. 

She was reminded of snuggling with her sister in the Hammer's gunner bay as they sped through hyperspace. Although her reaction to Hux's closeness was a far different one.

"It's really kind of beautiful," she spoke into the heavy silence. "Wild and unpredictable."

"Hmm."

"You don't think so?"

"I've lived in space too long to be impressed by an ion storm," he blandly commented. Rose heard, however, the edge to his voice just as she felt how tense he was. 

The air felt charged - and not simply as a result of the swirling ions from the storm.

"You, sir, are a jaded and cynical old man," she teased in an attempt to lighten the mood. "I can't believe you used to read about the High Republic."

"You should know your enemy," he dryly commented. 

"Of course that's why."

Hux never reacted well to being teased. It left him feeling raw and exposed so that he became defensive and closed off. Rose's teasing comments, though, did the opposite. She made him want to open up and tell her more. He didn't know what to make of that.

Hesitantly, he explained, "when I was a child, I dreamed of being a hyperspace explorer – traveling in Wild Space and discovering new routes. Having adventures. Typical childhood escapism. That's how I became interested in the High Republic era."

The anticipated laughter at his childish dreams never came. Instead, Rose quietly admitted, "I didn't want to escape anything as a child. I wanted to just be the baby of the family and live with them forever."

Neither of them got what they wanted, he supposed. 

Hux held his breath when he felt Rose shift, but instead of moving away, she leaned back into him. When her head rested on his shoulder, he felt her take a deep breath and relax her muscles. He couldn't prevent his arms from tightening around her.

They sat quietly for a time - the emergency lights barely illuminating the medbay - and shared their warmth.  Both preoccupied by the same basic questions. 

Why?

How? 

"It is beautiful," Hux eventually acknowledged. Rose agreed, though she didn't look back and, thus, didn't see that his eyes weren't watching the storm.

"Most wild things are, I think," she replied. "On D'Qar, Paige and I used to go for walks to see all the plants and animals. It was so different from Hays Minor. One day, we found the prettiest little firefox - it seemed to have an injured paw, but it wouldn't let us catch it."

"You shouldn't have tried," he admonished. "Injured creatures are dangerous."

"Anyway," Rose continued, clearly not wanting a lecture, "I kept going out and offering it food. It slowly let me get closer and closer until, finally, it ate right out of my hand. It even let me pet it. It became less afraid and started coming closer to the base."

"What happened to it?" Hux asked in response to the wistfulness in her voice.

"I don't know." Rose admitted, "I worry that it was near the base when it was destroyed. And it would have been my fault."

"Nonsense," he dismissed. "It would probably not have survived its injury at all without your care. You're too compassionate - it's your weakness."

"I hate whoever taught you that."

"You don't hate anyone, Rose," Hux scoffed. Truly, he had never met someone with a heart as open as Rose's. It concerned him.

In his experience, survivors hated. Victims loved.

Rose turned her head slightly so that her nose brushed against his cheek. 

"I think I could, Armitage," she softly replied. "I think I could hate whoever hurt you."

Hux froze. He hadn't heard anyone say his name in years. He was General Hux, not Armitage. 

A name was intimate. Arkanisians were superstitious, and he remembered stories from his childhood that warned against giving your name to a mhaira, a water maiden from legend, because it would give her power over you. He realized the truth of those tales when he heard Rose say his name. But it didn't leave him feeling vulnerable or weak. His name, he thought, was safe in her mouth. 

"Rose." He turned his head until their noses touched, and he breathed her in. They stayed there, the storm raging around them, in them, searching each other's eyes. 

Perhaps she was a water maiden from the stories after all. Certainly, he was drowning.

It was unclear which one finally bridged that small space. Perhaps both. Hux only knew that they were suddenly, somehow, kissing. Past lovers had frequently complained of Hux's aversion to kissing. Clearly, though, his reluctance had simply been because he hadn't kissed Rose.

Kissing her might well be his new favorite pastime. She showed no hesitancy as she teased his mouth open. New intimacy as breaths mingled. 

Ah, he remembered, that was how a mhaira took your soul. 

Too late.

He let go of the coat, and grasped her face with his hands. He felt her turn her body towards him, grabbing his shoulders and leveraging her weight until she was on her knees in front of him. Never once breaking the kiss.

They kissed forever, it felt. How could such hard words come from such soft lips, Rose wondered. He followed her lead as she nibbled and teased and tangled. At some point, her hands had moved to his hair, and she savagely delighted in disrupting his perfect coif.

They kissed until, suddenly, the life support rebooted. The lights brightened and the air began to gradually warm. They pulled away, just slightly, to look at each other. 

The storm had passed. 

Reality returned, past remembered, and futures unknown. 

But as they each looked at the other for a sign that the other had come to their senses, that their momentary madness had fled, they both realized that the storm still raged. 

This time, Hux knew that he was the one to pull her back and touch his lips to hers once again. There was no frenzy. No dire situation or adrenaline surges to blame. Neither would be able to claim afterwards that they had lost their senses in a moment of passion. 

There was passion. But it was a deliberate kind. Steady hands and sure touches. Not the hesitancy or uncertainty of new lovers. Rose reminded him of the puzzle boxes he had when he was younger. Hux had loved the challenge of discovering the exact combination of steps to unlock the box. 

With Rose, he quickly learned the right pressure and angles and spots that produced soft whimpers. When his lips brushed the skin of her neck just above her carotid artery, she sighed. When he kissed the spot in front of her ear, she moaned. 

They lost contact for just a moment when Rose pulled her sweater over her head. As she pulled at the sleeves, Hux moved back to her mouth. Their tongues tangled, and he couldn't remember why he had ever loathed kissing in the first place. 

Rose tugged at the lapels of his coat, and he leaned into her as he shrugged it off. Once divested, he pulled back slightly, but she was loath to give up the contact and followed him. That, however, was still not close enough. Without breaking their kiss, she shifted her balance and moved her legs until she straddled his lap. 

They continued exploring each other, finding the right touch, strokes, and pressure, to please the other. A tactile version of the scientific method - hypothesis, test, evidence, conclusion. 

Rose had always been confused why pilots and bounty hunters were viewed as the best lovers. Clearly, few beings understood how…thorough and purposeful engineers were in their approach to intimacy. 

Rose, herself, had never been on the receiving end of it before. She could only describe it by saying that Hux studied her. He learned her. Just as she focused on his reactions. Their shared drive to understand how things worked applied here as well. 

He groaned when she pressed her core down on his hardness. So she did it again. He played with her breasts through her shirt until he found the touch that made her whimper. 

Their own diagnostic analyses. 

Hux found that Rose's breasts and nipples were particularly sensitive. He kissed her collarbone as he unhooked her shirt - he must have discarded his gloves at some point. His chuckle was muffled against her shoulder when Rose grew frustrated trying to find the hidden clasps on his tunic. He pulled it and his undershirt off, leaving him only in his jodhpurs.

"I do hate them. For this," she whispered as she touched his scars.

He was so fucked.

Hux’s skin was cool to the touch. Her own felt unbearably hot, and she wanted to press her face to his neck. Like a feverish child seeking the relief of a cool compress. She did just that as her hands learned the architecture of his chest and arms. She found no softness, which was both strange and fitting for this man.  He was lean, but everywhere she touched, she found firm, ropy muscles.

She couldn't help but compare his hard angles with her own soft curves and marveled at the contrast. 

She felt him shudder when she kissed the sensitive skin just behind his ear. She ran her lips down neck, mouthing the sensitive flesh. She smiled into his skin when he gasped from her attentions. Rose moved even farther down - to his shoulders and chest. Seeing his scars once again, she kissed one and was about to kiss another when he tensed and pulled her face back to his.

Rose anticipated his rejection and waited for him to push her away, but he only said, "no, mhaira, it's the past." He was kissing her again before she could reply. But Rose understood. 

They could only come together if they locked the past away. They couldn't be General and Rebel or Son and Sister. Not even Spy and Handler. Those parts of their identities didn't belong here. Now.

Neither could they think of the future and all its potential directions. The future. At that thought, a shadow passed through Rose's mind – some amorphous future concern that she couldn't name. She began to chase it, almost catching it, when Hux's fingers pressed against her core, and all possibility of cogent thought flew away.

The future, she decided, would take care of itself. 

By this point, he had her shirt fully open, and she paused to pull it off, grateful that the temperature controls were functioning again. Nervously, she glanced to see his reaction. Would he be disappointed? Rose typically didn't dwell on her body – it was what it was – except when she had to contort herself and her curves in the close confines of a ship's engine. Or when she had to ask someone to grab an object too high for her reach.

But she also knew that, despite some cultural variations, human aesthetics favored tall and slender. Though, judging from the way Hux's eyes darkened, he did not. Before, she would have said his eyes reminded her of the deep layers of ice on Hays Minor. Now, however, they made her think of the oceans she had seen on Mon Cala.

"You've been keeping secrets," he murmured as his hands brushed the undersides of her breasts. She was surprised when he didn't immediately begin kneading them or teasing her nipples. The few partners Rose had in the past always seemed to follow some sort of manual – a list of sequential steps with few deviations. 

Hux, on the other hand, fucked like he listened --intently and with complete focus on her. He seemed to notice her nonverbal cues before she did. She didn't have to tell him to slow down. To awkwardly explain that she liked the anticipation as much as the actual touch.

He teased her with his mouth and hands, constantly gauging her reactions. Barely there touches that had her shivering. By the time he finally, finally, had a nipple in his mouth, she was so tightly wound she could scream. 

Rose suddenly understood what made this man so dangerous. It wasn’t his arrogance or intelligence. His seemingly rabid loyalty. That was all just misdirection. It was his focus and patience that made him so formidable. So deadly.

And so very good.

She clutched his hair as if trying to keep him there, and Hux almost laughed. Silly girl. As if he had any intention of moving away.

He couldn't believe she had been hiding this siren's body underneath the utilitarian clothing she usually wore. He had seen hints of it in the First Order uniform she wore at their first encounter, but he would never have predicted these lush curves.

Hux had the insane notion to order her to dress in shapeless coveralls all the time. Insane because she would never do what he told her and because he had never felt this type of possessiveness before. He did not want anyone but himself to know what Rose's clothing concealed. In fact, he would gladly place anyone who did have that knowledge in front of a firing squad. Then bomb their entire base or blow up their ship just to be sure.

His reaction to Rose shocked him. In addition to the unexpected possessiveness and sudden partiality to kissing, he found himself savoring her reactions. Drawing out the pleasure. His previous experiences were mostly impersonal and rote. Satisfy a need and move on. But, suddenly, Rose, herself, was the need.

He understood why sailors in the old tales swam willingly into the mhaira's arms - knowing they would drown.

By the time he felt Rose's hand tugging on the placket of his trousers, he was already sinking below the surface. Clearly frustrated by the unnecessary intricacies of First Order uniforms, she gave up and started stroking him through the material. The annoyed little growl that accompanied her actions almost made him come on the spot.

Instead, though, he reached for her legs, nudging her to signal his intentions. Without any further prompting, Rose shifted away and allowed him to tug off her boots with only a little awkward maneuvering. 

They had barely spoken the whole time, allowing hands and mouths to communicate what they needed. As if they knew words would only make it even more complicated. 

Once her boots were off, Rose shimmied out of her pants and underwear. She then reached for his waistband, and this time, Hux helped her. He lifted himself just enough that she was able to tug his garments down below his hips.

Her small hand, good for reaching into engines, couldn't close fully around his cock. His groan emboldened her, though, and she began guiding her hand up and down. By the time she felt his fingers on her core, she was swollen and throbbing, almost too sensitive to be touched. She flinched slightly, and he must have noticed – he moved his fingers until he was massaging the sensitive skin just below her clit - a bundle of nerves that exploded with sensations.

The pleasure was almost too much, and in contrast to his control, Rose felt a sense of urgency. She needed him inside her. Now. The phantom thought from earlier tried to briefly reemerge, but she ignored it, straddling Hux's lap once again. 

She guided him with one hand, her other on his shoulder, as she lowered herself onto him. They held each other's eyes the entire time – almost daring the other to retreat, to deny what was happening. But also refusing to hide from this intimacy and its consequences. 

Consequences. The First Order could fucking burn, Hux thought in that moment, and he wouldn't be bothered. He knew, logically, he should be terrified. The Force was nothing in comparison to Rose Tico.

He watched as she closed her eyes and sighed once he was fully sheathed. After giving her a moment to adjust, he lightly squeezed her hips, letting her know that she was in charge. That she should set the pace. Rose rocked gently against him at first. Feeling the stretch and friction. A quick fuck was one thing, but Rose enjoyed the building tension. The anticipation of the pleasure. 

Hux seemed to know this as he let his fingers travel lightly over her body - slowly coming closer and closer to the spots that craved his touch the most. Rose's hips began moving faster, and he leaned slightly forward until his lips brushed her ear. For only the third time, he spoke, though his words were nonsense. 

It took Rose a moment to realize he wasn't speaking Basic – she assumed it was Arkanisian since she couldn't recognize any of the words. She heard mhaira several times, though she had no idea what it or any of his other words meant. Leave it to this man to find a way to remain opaque while he was literally inside her.

Any frustration fled, though, when his fingers finally found their way to her clit. Between the friction and the fullness, the warm breath and words in her ear and the press of her breasts against his chest, she was overwhelmed by sensation. A second or an hour later - she wasn't really sure - she came apart in his arms.

Apparently, fucking Hux was like traveling in hyperspace – time functioned differently here too.

He held her down as the waves of pleasure receded and murmured more words that Rose somehow instinctively knew were praise. An Arkanisian version of 'good girl,' she thought wryly. 

Before she could react, his arms tightened behind her and he shifted his weight forward. She found herself on her back, Hux braced above her, still inside. She ran her hands up his arms to his shoulders, enjoying the feel of the taut muscles that supported his weight. 

She wondered again at the fact that this man - of all the beings in the galaxy - made her feel safe. It made no sense.

Then he started moving. Not the shallow rocking she had employed but slow, deep strokes that stimulated a different set of nerves. Rose was surprised when she felt another orgasm quickly building. He was watching her face and must have noted her reaction, as he began thrusting harder.

"Armitage, I-"

He kissed her before she could continue – perhaps afraid what she might say. And she was grateful he did. For the same reason. 

As he kissed her, Hux could only think that he had never felt anything so good in his life. He hadn't known this much pleasure was even possible. He felt her muscles tense as her nails scored his back, and he increased his pace. He reached down at the same time as he pulled his mouth away. He loved kissing her, but he needed to see Rose's face when she came. Couldn't remember needing anything more.

He was rewarded when her eyes widened, almost surprised, and an almost smile ghosted across her features. Again, he had the sudden urge to lock her away. To keep anyone else from ever seeing that look. That thought - having Rose all to himself - finally sent him over the precipice, and he spilled himself inside her.

They lay there a moment, breathing hard, Hux's face pressed again into her neck. She played with the hair at his nape with one hand while the other made soothing motions along his shoulders. She felt small indentations on his upper back that could only have come from her nails.

She had no idea she had held him that tightly and was startled when she lifted her hand and saw a small amount of blood on her fingers. She had, apparently, marked him again. A part of her was strangely satisfied at the thought and wondered if he had marked her as well. She hoped so.

A few minutes later, Hux pulled away. She expected him to get up and dress immediately. Maybe tell her this had been a mistake. But he simply rolled off her onto his back before pulling her close.

They still hadn't said anything - not in Basic at least. Maybe they didn't need to. 

This time, it was Rose who pushed her face into the hollow between his neck and shoulders. His scent reminded her of the mines back home - ice and iron - and she breathed deeply as he pulled her even closer. 

Hux heard her sigh and wondered whether it was regret or contentment. And then wondered why it was so important to him that it be the latter. He toed off his boots and somehow managed to hike his trousers back up without jostling Rose too much.

Looking down, she seemed to be asleep or close to it, so he carefully reached for his coat and pulled it over them. He knew there would be consequences of some kind – to their relationship and, possibly, to their priorities. The future was always waiting. It could wait, though, he decided, a few more moments. 

~~

Hux slowly woke to the warmth of a body pressed against his side. He was lying on his back with Rose cuddled against him, her head resting partly on his shoulder. Their legs tangled. For just a moment, he believed he must be back in his cell, hallucinating once again. Maybe dreaming. But then Rose sighed, and he knew it was real. It had been so long. He allowed himself to lie there, eyes still closed, for just a few more moments. 

"Hi."

Hux's eyes flew open to find that he and Rose were not actually alone in the bed. Sitting on his other side was Gaia. Cross-legged, holding a blanket of some kind, and watching him. Too startled to fully process her presence, he responded automatically. 

"Hello."

"Why are you sleeping in mami's bed?" the little girl asked. Before he could formulate an answer, a concerned look settled on her face. "She kicks, ya know."

"I do." Hux tried to focus, to remember his objective and his reasons to avoid distractions. But either his mind was still muddled from his first real sleep in years or it was simply overcome by this first interaction with his daughter.

"I'm Gaia."

"Charmed," he automatically responded before turning his head towards the child's mother. "Rose."

She refused to open her eyes and tried feigning sleep, but Hux could see her eyes crinkle.

"Ooh, you sound like the prince in one of my holo shows," Gaia continued, happily oblivious to Hux’s increasing discomfort. "Are you a prince? Mami doesn't like princes. She says they're el-tits."

"Elitist," he automatically corrected. "And, no, I am assuredly not," he added as he scowled at Rose's poor acting performance.

"Are you a soldier?"

"Yes," he answered. When he turned to Gaia, he froze. She was still watching him thoughtfully, but her expression had slightly altered to one he was intimately familiar with. His daughter looked like Rose when she was examining a piece of technology to understand it.

"My papa was a soldier," she offered, her head slightly tilted to aid in her examination. 

"Rose." His voice carried more urgency now.

He was not prepared for this conversation, and he needed to find a way to swiftly conclude it. Turning back, he found Rose silently watching them with a look that clearly said, 'you're on your own.' He assumed she was still upset about their argument the night before. Impossible woman.

With Rose on one side and Gaia on the other, there was no way to make a dignified escape from the bed either. 

"They called you Gen'ral Hux," the girl blithely continued. "Is that your name?"

"Yes."

"Gen'ral is a funny name," she giggled.

"General. It means you're in charge of the other soldiers. Armitage is my name."

"That's an even funnier name," she laughed. "Does your beard tickle?"

Hux was completely bemused by this point. Were all younglings this talkative? This quizzical? And there was no logical pattern to her questions.

"Sometimes," he admitted.

"Can I touch it?" Before Hux could decline, her little hand reached out. For a moment, he felt like the fox from the story Rose told him so long ago.  "It's orange. Like your hair," she commented as she gently felt his whiskers.

And…he didn’t hate it. 

"Fuzzy. I like it," she approved in a way that made Hux feel as if he had won some sort of prize. Perhaps he had. He also felt oddly bereft when she pulled her hand away to pick up the blanket again.

"Do you wanna feel my blankie?" she asked as she presented the green cloth to him. "Mami and Peli brought it. I missed it lots."

"No, thank you. But I'm pleased you have it back in your possession."

"Why are you in mami's bed?" Gaia asked again. It appeared that she would not drop that particular topic before receiving an answer. Once again, he looked to Rose and silently pleaded for assistance. 

"Uh uh. Not me."

Hux's vow not to lie to Rose extended to his daughter as well. He regarded Gaia once again before carefully answering, "to keep her safe. To keep all of you safe."

"Did you help mami find me?"

"Yes, he did, baby." Perhaps Rose finally decided he had suffered enough.

"You're in charge. So you can tell the soldiers not to take me from mami again?"

That question, thankfully, was easy to answer. "Yes."

"Make them pinky promise," she ordered, as if it was of paramount importance. 

"Certainly." At his bemused agreement, the little girl leaned forward and kissed his cheek. Before he could react, she jumped off the bed and headed towards the door. 

"Peli said breakfast was here and to tell you, 'you snooze, you lose,'" she called back before disappearing. 

Rose laughed lightly as she climbed from the bed. Hux simply continued to lie there, attempting to corral his thoughts and emotions. His daughter had just, quite successfully, interrogated and then commanded him. 

For the last several days, he had focused on Rose and ensuring that she wouldn't interfere with his plans. He had neglected to give the same consideration to Gaia. That, he quickly concluded, had been a mistake.

After dressing and drinking his breakfast, Hux excused himself as quickly as he could. He trusted Rose to remember the surveillance and be discreet in her actions and speech. He left her and Ms. Motto eating, while Gaia played with some toys nearby. He assumed that they had been packed with the blanket brought from Tatooine. 

Rose frowned at his exit but said nothing about it. Hux collected a guard and Lieutenant Mitaka and headed for the bridge after telling Mrs. Mitaka that Rose was awake and expecting her.

He needed distance from Rose and Gaia. Between last night and this morning, he could feel his resolve wavering. Wants he had no business having were rising to the surface. Hux attempted to focus on his objectives – to stay with the First Order and to send them safely away. Growing closer would only make it all more difficult and dangerous. 

Hux spent the next few hours discussing logistics with Captain Yarev and the other officers aboard. He learned more about the Remnant's movements and current position as well as the Coalition's attempts to find them. He reviewed reports on resources and munitions as well as bases and shipyards in the Unknown Regions that were still operational. 

It seemed their infrastructure was mostly intact, while personnel numbers had been depleted. Though not dangerously so. Not yet.

The Security Bureau officer shadowed him but did not interfere. Hux supposed that they wagered he would be executed if the Supreme Council determined he was a traitor, so it didn't matter what he learned in the meantime. The majority of the crew were deferential except Opan. He still appeared suspicious and sullen, though he spoke to Lieutenant Mitaka at length.

While in the officers' mess for a meal break with several of the bridge officers, Hux was surprised to see Rose and Gaia enter with the other two women, followed closely by a guard. Upon seeing them, Captain Yarev stood and called, "Ladies, please join us. A lovely surprise."

"Gaia had a little cabin fever, so Lieutenant Sukhail offered to escort us here for our meal," Rose explained with a small nod in the guard's direction. 

"Please. Please. Sit," Yarev instructed. Once everyone was at the table, he turned to the little girl with a knowing look. "Your favorite, Miss Gaia?"  

"Yes, please," the child answered while the other adults looked on in confusion. 

"Lieutenant Sukhail, inform the galley that our guest requests nerf nuggets and noodles."

"Gaia, is that all you've been eating?" Rose's tone was weary, as if this was a topic they had visited too many times in the past. 

"She didn't like the officers' meals, ma'am," Yarev explained, "so we found something she would eat."

Rose looked conflicted at the captain's explanation, as if she wanted to be angry at the reminder of Gaia's abduction but, at the same time, was finding it difficult to be upset with someone showing her daughter kindness.

He knew she was also incredibly uncomfortable on a First Order ship and surrounded by 'enemy' soldiers, though her daughter and companions appeared to be taking it in stride. 

He noted that Gaia waved and smiled at several of the officers in the mess. The crew responded in kind until they became aware of the General's notice. At that, their attention abruptly returned to their meal, or they made a hasty exit.

"Would any of you like a caf?" Lieutenant Mitaka inquired as he stood to walk over to the beverage station.

"Yes, please, darling," Miss Connix answered, smiling at the lieutenant's blush. Hux thought the young woman was having entirely too much fun with their deception. Rose's friends had altogether inappropriate senses of humor, in his opinion.

The meal passed relatively quickly and without incident, though every time he glanced over, Gaia's eyes were watching him. Even with a mouth full of noodles.

Near the end, Yarev courteously complimented his guests, "General Hux, Lieutenant Mitaka, thank you for sharing your families with us. It has been too long since we had such lovely visitors."

"So, how do I get a tour of this bucket?" the Motto woman asked.

"I would be pleased to escort you, madam," the captain answered with a smooth smile in the old woman's direction. "Though, of course, some parts of the ship are restricted access only. All of you ladies, if you like," the captain added, including everyone in his invitation. 

While the women toured, Hux and Mitaka continued pouring over reports and maps of Coalition incursions into the Unknown Regions in their search for the Remnant. Their ships had successfully hunted down First Order vessels and bases a number of times. Hux paid particular attention to the hyperspace routes used by the Coalition. 

The Unknown Regions were notoriously difficult to navigate due to uncharted and often changing hyperlanes. The Chiss, like most of the nations in the Chaos (the local term for the Unknown Regions), hired members of the Navigation Guild to guide them when necessary. Even the nascent First Order had relied on Navigators initially. Since then, though, the Order had successfully mapped a number of routes and that data was safe in the fleet's navigation systems. The Coalition, however, should not be familiar with those lanes, and Hux was determined to find out how they discovered them.

At one point, the captain brought Rose, Gaia, and the others to the bridge. Hux watched as his daughter wandered from station to station, talking to the crew like old friends. Rose had been correct when she described their daughter's confidence and outgoing nature. 

He was pleased to see that she had little resemblance to the sullen, fearful boy he had been at that age. Rose had clearly done an excellent job raising the little girl. 

After several hours of staring at holomaps and charts, Hux was dangerously close to a migraine. He reluctantly returned to their quarters with Lieutenant Mitaka, who once again blushed when Hux mentioned that 'his wife' was likely there. At this rate, his aide would be permanently red-faced. Hux understood that the charade was likely uncomfortable for Mitaka, but the First Order would have never allowed Rose's friend onboard if they knew she worked for the Coalition. 

As predicted, they were all in Hux's quarters, though it appeared that they had only recently returned. Rose confirmed his suspicion when she stated, "Captain Yarev took us back to the mess for dinner, but they just delivered a meal for you if you're hungry."

Yarev was fast becoming a trusted ally, Hux thought. The captain knew that the more his crew saw that Yarev approved of and trusted Hux and his family, the more quickly the whole fleet would as well.

Hux declined the food with a shake of his head and sat down, rubbing his temples. Lieutenant Mitaka, seeing his discomfort, excused himself, and the pretend couple left for their own quarters.

Rose's clear displeasure turned into concern as she observed him. "Are you in pain?"

"Only a headache," he acknowledged. Hux hated these occasional migraines even more than the persistent ache in his leg. He particularly despised them because the pain in his head made it difficult to concentrate.

A cup suddenly appeared in front of him, and Hux looked up to find Rose offering him tea. He gratefully accepted it and drank with a sigh. 

As he sipped, he looked around to see Gaia standing nearby and, again, watching him. Ms. Motto was seated close by with what appeared to be a partially deconstructed model of a mouse droid on the table in front of her. Hux had no idea how she had gotten her hands on one.

As he scrutinized the droid parts from afar, Gaia slowly walked closer until she was standing just in front of him, almost touching his knees. She was clutching her green blanket as she continued to regard Hux with an expression that made him increasingly uncomfortable. She looked exactly like Rose did just before she said something that would inevitably disrupt his equilibrium. 

"You're my papa, aren't you?"

Fuck.

He looked desperately at the other two women, but they only responded with almost identical raised eyebrows and smirks.

"I think you should ask your mother about that," he stalled with another pleading glance at Rose.

"I did. She said to ask you. Are you?" Kriff. Hux recalled how Rose had latched onto his finger and refused to let go. Tenacity was, apparently, genetic. One last glance at Rose showed that no assistance would be forthcoming from that corner. On the contrary, her expression almost dared him to lie.

Which he would not do. Consequences, he reminded himself.

"Yes."

"I missed you," his daughter responded. As if he had simply been away on a trip. "Did you miss me?"

"More than I knew, ta'ima." The words slipped out of their own volition. As did the Arkanisian. His daughter had her mother's talent for making him say things he never had any intention of admitting aloud.

"Did you miss mami too?"

"Quite."

"I don't like melroons." Before Hux could agree that, yes, meilooruns were a disgusting fruit, she had moved on.

By this point, she had one small hand on his knee, while the other still clutched the blanket.

"Can I have a cat? I've wanted a cat since I was little, but mami always said no." Gaia's look at this declaration was one of such profound disappointment in her mother that one would think Rose had thrown a kitten out the airlock.

"I had a cat once," he dodged. He did not want to deny her and see that disappointment leveled at him.

"Where is it?"

"I'm not certain," he answered honestly. "Her name was Millicent."

At that, Gaia looked at him as if he had invented the hyperdrive. Her eyes wide, she flashed him her brightest smile. Hux had the impression that he had just passed a test he had been unaware of taking.

"Mami!" Gaia enthused as she turned to her mother. "Papa said I could have a cat!"

He had not said that.

"We can talk about it later." Rose appeared exasperated but not angry. In fact, her posture seemed more relaxed and her face more open after witnessing Gaia's easy acceptance of her father. 

"Alright, you little womp rat, enough excitement. Let's get you cleaned up and ready for bed." The Motto woman's no nonsense statement made the prior interaction seem all the more surreal to Hux.

Life was just supposed to continue after that?

"Peli, my papa said I could have a cat," she continued, as if the older woman had not been sitting there the entire time. 

"I'll help her get ready for sleep," Rose interjected, taking her daughter's hand and walking towards the fresher. Perhaps she, like Hux, needed a moment to process what had occurred. And the ramifications. 

"Have at it, Rosie," the Motto woman agreed before looking back at Hux with a smug smile. "You look like you just got run over by a Sandcrawler, Red."

Inelegant, Hux thought, but apt. He certainly felt as if he had. Though he had no intention of discussing his daughter with the old woman. Which is why he was doubly surprised to hear himself remark, "I did not expect that."

"What? That Gigi would be more excited about a cat than a father? You don't know how long that kid has been begging for a cat." 

"She just accepted it. Accepted me," he stated in bewilderment. 

"Course she did," Ms. Motto responded with a huff. "And you know why? Cause Rosie has talked about you and told Gigi how great her dad was for years."

Apparently, he was going to discuss his daughter with the old woman after all. He had not planned for this. For his daughter to know. For her seamless acceptance. 

For her, at all, really. 

At least Motto knew Gaia well and might be able to provide some insight that would assist Hux in adapting to this deviation from his intentions. He recalled Rose's warning last night – that she meant to change his mind. But he couldn't allow this - her - to influence his plans.

"I am afraid, then, that she will be disappointed by the reality," he confessed.

"Rosie or Gigi?"

Perhaps Ms. Motto was more perceptive than he had initially given her credit for. "Both."

"Well, I ain't worried about Rosie. She's got a good head on her shoulders, and, like me, she is an excellent judge of character. As for that little girl, you'll do better than you think."

"I know nothing about being a father." That was actually a lie. He knew something about being a father. 

Unfortunately. 

He knew how much a father could damage his child and the innumerable methods used to do so. He knew he would have been better off without his own father. And he couldn't help but believe Gaia would as well.

As if hearing his thoughts, the old woman responded. "You know, Red, you remind me a lot of a guy I knew years back. He didn't think he was cut out to be a dad at first either. He would have died for that kid, but he still thought the best thing he could do for it was to walk away – let someone else raise it."

Hux was intrigued despite himself. "Was it?"

"Heck, no," she vehemently declared. "Never saw two beings who needed each other more. They saved each other."

It wasn't a child's job to save her father, he thought. "And when Gaia learns about everything I have done for the First Order?"

"That girl has her mama's heart. She'll love you no matter what."

"That is asking a great deal, Madame."

"Look, Red, it's simple. You need them. And they need you. Rosie's carried her burdens by herself for too long," the older woman added in a more serious tone than Hux was accustomed to from her. "Now, I don't have any idea how all this is gonna work or what you got planned – Rosie always said you had a dangerous mind. But I know you'll keep my girls safe."

"You don't worry for yourself?"

"Ha!" she laughed. "I can take care of myself just fine. I've survived galactic wars, Hutts, bounty hunters, syndicates, and pirates. I can handle you people."

"One old woman against the entire First Order?" Hux scoffed.

She responded with a look of deep skepticism and, of all things, pity.

"I'm not the one that just got Rancor rolled by a four-year-old."

Chapter Text

Rose felt Hux tense beside her as the door slid open, waking them both. When she felt him reach under the pillows for his blade, she stopped him with a restraining hand on his shoulder.

"Stop, it's not assassins," she assured him. "Although you may end up wishing that it was."

Both of them had fallen into bed, exhausted, after Gaia went to sleep, silently agreeing that it was too soon for any more discussion. Or argument. Hux was obviously still reeling from his conversation with his daughter. It seemed he and Peli talked about something as well, but Rose refused to pry.

As Rose predicted, little feet came running toward the bed on Hux's side. "Papa, I can't sleep," Gaia announced in a poor approximation of a stage whisper.

Rose tensed, ready to respond, when she heard Hux ask, "Why not, ta'ima?"

"I keep thinking about my new cat."

"New cat?" Rose almost laughed - Hux was quickly discovering his daughter's stubbornness.

"Uh huh. What if it's lonely? Cause it's waiting for me to find it?"

"Find it?" Rose wasn't sure if Hux was still half asleep or whether he was just having problems following the logic of a four-year-old. Probably both.

"Like you found me."

Everything was silent for several moments, until she heard Hux clear his throat and respond in a strained tone, "would it help if I tell the soldiers to look for it too?"

Gaia must have nodded her agreement, because seconds later, Hux asked, "what else, ta'ima?"

Gaia's response was quiet and whispered in an uncertain voice that Rose rarely heard from her outgoing daughter. "Can I sleep with you and mami?"

Again, Hux paused before answering, "I thought she kicked."

"Yeah, but I'll sleep on this side, and she'll kick you. Not me." Ah. That was the Gaia that Rose knew well. A strategist like her father.

She felt Hux shift closer to her as the covers were pulled. Though she didn't feel Gaia's slight weight settle on the bed, she must have climbed up, because Hux then told her, "go to sleep, youngling."

"'Night, papa."

Rose laid there for some time after Hux’s and Gaia's breathing deepened, signaling sleep. She had spent a great deal of time over the past few days thinking about their next step since she couldn't talk about it.

Hux had said that he planned on sending her and Gaia away as soon as it was safe. She recalled his reasons. First and foremost was their safety. Second, he believed that Gaia was somehow better off without him in her life. Finally, he seemed to still have some loyalty to the First Order and its future.

Rose disregarded the last reason easily. The First Order was evil, even worse than the Coalition, to Rose's thinking.  While some officers like Hux and Dopheld, and even Captain Yarev, showed admirable qualities, the Order, as a whole, was despicable. They had kidnapped her daughter. She needed to convince Hux that he couldn't, and shouldn't, try to save it.

As for their safety - if Hux was correct, they were in no immediate danger. So long as his plan worked. And once away from the First Order, she could take Gaia and Peli and disappear. Rose considered whether Eiram was still an option or whether they needed to find somewhere else. Not for the first time, she wished Rey was here to discuss possible choices.

Hux's second reason concerned Rose the most and, she believed, would be the biggest obstacle. The idiot truly felt that they would have a better future without him. While his other motivations could be addressed with logic, this one was purely emotional. A strange occurrence for a man who typically dismissed feelings. Or so he said.

And potential solutions to all of these problems required Rose to answer one primary question. Did she want them to be a family? Did she want him to be a partner to her and a father to Gaia? 

Fortunately, this answer was clear and had been, if she was honest, since the moment Poe told her Hux was alive. Possibly from the minute Leia told her she was pregnant. 

Yes.

She hadn't allowed herself to think of any kind of future with him while the war continued. Then, after Exogol, she had tucked her grief away to care for Gaia. She had refused to consider a future, once again, until her daughter was safely back with her. Now, here she was again, supposed to put her wants aside to do what someone else had decided was the right thing. 

Well, Rose was done. 

She was tired of postponing her life until whatever crisis they found themselves in was resolved. Rose had come to hate those words – until and almost.

Was she supposed to wait for the galaxy or the Force or whatever to fix itself? This galaxy hadn't known lasting peace for more than seventy years – there was always another waypoint to reach. Another conflict or crisis. Leia had cautioned her not to put its welfare above that of her family.

Love is the only thing that can save the galaxy.

Watching Hux and Gaia interact earlier, Rose hadn't been surprised. By either of them. She knew what lay below his guarded, arrogant exterior. And she realized something – this is what it could be like. What it always should have been like. Her resolve firmed in that instant.

She was going to convince Hux to abandon the First Order. To leave with her and Gaia and be a family. 

Rose Tico was going to fight again. Not to save what she loved but, rather, who. Luckily, she had allies and friends she could trust.

Even better, she had her own secret weapon. The immovable object was currently sleeping next to a tiny unstoppable force. Poor Hux wasn't going to know what hit him. She almost felt sorry for him.

~~

The next morning, Rose emerged from dressing Gaia to find Hux in the sitting area drinking his habitual cup of tea. 

In a First Order uniform. 

She couldn't stop herself from staring. This was the General Hux she first met on the Supremacy. And this was the uniform she peeled off him on Starlight. Rose still didn't understand how those two antithetical images both represented the same man.

"You look handsome, papa," her daughter declared as she skipped over to sit next to Hux.

"Thank you, ta'ima."

Gaia's quizzical look was soon followed by a question. "What's tima mean?"

"It's Arkanisian for storm child." Rose looked over to where Peli sat with the mouse droid parts.

When she noticed both Rose and Hux staring at her, bewildered, she said, "what? Knew a guy from Arkanis once. Imperial type. Bor-ing."

"Please do not tell me he had red hair," Hux demanded. 

"I won't." At that, she focused back on the droid.

Rose turned back to find Hux scowling at an unconcerned Peli.

"Why do you call me a storm child?" Gaia asked curiously. 

Now, it was Rose's turn to scowl at Hux as she answered before he could, "because you're a force of nature." She accompanied her explanation with a look at Hux that clearly said 'not another word.'

Apparently, he had already deduced for himself how their contraceptive implants had failed on the Starlight. 

"We will be docking with the Dominion shortly," Hux commented, pulling her thoughts away from recollections of that memory. 

"Gaia, why don't you and Peli go make sure everything is packed and ready?"

Once Gaia had helped Peli gather up the droid parts and the bedroom door slid closed, Rose turned back to Hux.

"I don't like you in that uniform," she complained, not caring for the moment whether someone was listening or watching. 

"Is that so?" Hux asked with a knowing look. 

He might as well have said, you liked me well enough out of it, for the blush that instantly heated her face. To cover her reaction, she scoffed, "it's ridiculous. And pretentious. Jodhpurs, Hux? Really? Those are riding pants. I can't remember - when did the First Order go into battle riding orbaks or fathiers exactly?"

"I'll leave that to the Resistance, thank you," he dryly countered. "I apologize that the Order cannot compete with the sartorial statement you made with your coveralls. I seem to recall, however, that you looked very well in a First Order uniform."

"Don't think for one minute you'll ever see that again," she warned. "But if you're going for the whole First Order look, why haven't you shaved? Not exactly regulation."

Actually, Rose was glad he kept the beard. And she liked that he hadn't gone back to using pomade in his hair. He seemed softer like this - as if she had just removed a pair of specs and everything was blurred. Looking closer, she could actually see subtle differences in his uniform. It looked like it had been recently altered – the stitching on the rank bands did not match the rest. Dopheld must have improvised, since it was doubtful that the Archer just carried around a supply of generals' uniforms.

"The uniform is to remind everyone that I spent over three decades serving the First Order. The beard and cane will remind them that I also spent half of one imprisoned by the Coalition," he explained. "Appearances matter here. Everything says something."

Chagrined at the reminder of the Coalition's duplicity, Rose kept her silence. She had to remember that neither the Coalition nor the First Order could be trusted. 

They only had each other. 

Rose thought about his remark on appearances later as their little party readied themselves to transfer over to the Dominion. She wondered how she fared in that department. After the war, Rose had gone back to a Haysian aesthetic style - simple garments with asymmetrical lines and clean edges. She didn't look as put together as Kaydel always seemed to, but she was at least presentable. Besides, she thought, there was only so much she could do with what she had.

Rose moved to take Gaia's hand as they exited their quarters just as the little girl walked over to her father and looked up at him.

"Up," she demanded as she stretched her arms towards him.

Rose tried to intervene before it could become awkward. "He can't carry you, Gaia. Your papa needs to use his cane. Besides, you're a big girl."

She suddenly found herself on the receiving end of identical scowls. "Madam, I am quite capable," he admonished as he reached down and picked up his child before grabbing the cane. It was clear that he didn't know quite how to hold her, but Gaia shifted her weight until she was balanced on his good hip with an arm around his neck.

Thus, the crew of the Archer were afforded a sight they never could have predicted – First Order General Hux walking the corridors holding his small daughter as she smiled and waved at everyone they passed. It was like some bizarre victory parade. Rose had never seen so many double takes.

Captain Yarev met them at the landing ramp. "The Archer is assigned to the Dominion, Sir, so we'll be docked with her for some time," he informed Hux. The almost imperceptible smoothing of Hux's brow told Rose that he was glad to hear his new ally would remain close by for the time being.

Yarev offered Rose his arm since Hux’s hands were occupied. Appearances, she reminded herself. She also noticed the wink that the old captain sent to Peli just before the ramp lowered and they exited.

They found a number of First Order personnel waiting in the docking bay to 'welcome' them.  The looks and whispers started as soon as Hux began walking forward, Gaia still in his arms. Rose tried desperately to suppress her inappropriate mirth, but beings had acted less surprised to hear that Palpatine returned than they did to Hux having a daughter.

Somehow, Hux procreated.

Rose struggled to keep from laughing out loud at the thought. Her life simply couldn't get any more bizarre.

He stopped in front of a small group of officers and, at least, one civilian. Rose noticed that the rank insignias indicated generals and admirals. She held her breath, knowing how much depended on Hux's reception. On whether they accepted his bluff.

A woman with a general rank stepped forward, "General Hux! Welcome aboard the Dominion. We are grateful to have you back."

Rose could almost feel the atmosphere shift in the hangar bay. Relief took the place of uncertainty. She noted that a few others in the command group frowned at the general's welcoming tone, but they stayed silent.

"General Parnadee," Hux responded. "I am pleased to see you. I had no doubt that you would have survived."

Parnadee's smile faltered just slightly at Hux's last words, but she quickly recovered. "And your family. It is gratifying to see another generation of Huxes join the First Order," she added with a too-bright smile at Gaia. She seemed to assess the child as if she was already measuring her for a uniform. 

Rose held herself very still, though all she wanted to do at that moment was to rip Gaia from her father's arms and run. Captain Yarev must have noticed her tension, because he reached over and patted her hand where it clutched his sleeve.

"To accommodate your family's presence, I have made the Leader's compartments available for you." Parnadee's satisfied smile at this pronouncement put Rose on edge.  She seemed overeager to please Hux and had not glanced once in Rose's direction.

"That will suffice, General," Hux remarked blandly. "I would like to see my family settled before any briefings."

"Of course. I will be on the bridge when you're ready." At that, Parnadee walked away, followed closely by most of the other commanders. Just as she turned to go, though, Rose saw her throw a victorious look at a woman standing nearby – one of the few in civilian clothes.

Rose took a moment to study the woman. She reminded her of Paige - tall and willowy. Quite beautiful. 'Regal' came to mind. Though she seemed close to Hux's age, the woman made Rose think of Leia. Her sophisticated gown was also reminiscent of her general. She even seemed to have Leia's confidence as she strolled closer to them. At her approach, Hux took a subtle step closer to Rose.

"Armitage Hux," she said in an amused tone. "Alive and... nearly well." The woman glanced down at Hux's cane in distaste as she spoke.

Rose felt her hackles rise.

"Carise," he drawled. "I am surprised to see you in the Unknown Regions. I thought it was beneath you. You said that you would never  venture out to this 'uncivilized backwater' again. Your words, I believe."

Rose glanced back and forth between the two. There was history here, and it did not seem pleasant despite their forced civility.

"Circumstances change."

"Ah," Hux responded knowingly. "Did the Coalition kick you out then?"

She glared at Hux a moment before reluctantly answering. "There may have been rumors of exile. I, however, chose to keep my dignity and leave of my own accord."

"Dignity, is it?" Hux responded skeptically. 

Before the Carise woman could make another remark, Gaia spoke up in a tone that radiated suspicion and dislike. Unusual for her sweet daughter. "Who are you?"

"Oh, this must be your delightful child," the woman responded. She then turned to Gaia and announced in a saccharin voice that instantly grated, "I am Lady Carise Sindian. I've heard a great deal about you already."

"I haven't heard anything about you," Gaia countered, unsmiling, from her father's arms. Well, Rose thought, at least no one could doubt Gaia's patrimony now. That was pure Hux. To her left, she heard a snort from Peli, while Yarev loudly cleared his throat.

Rose had heard of her, though. Leia had mentioned this woman. And not kindly. From Arkanis, like Hux, she was a former Centrist Senator. An early supporter of the First Order, she had led the movement in the Senate to secede from the New Republic. 

"Charming," Carise commented in a way that made it clear she was not charmed. "And this must be its mother...speaking of backwaters. I'm Lady Carise." Her disdain for Rose was obvious.

But Rose hadn't spent years around Leia Organa to not have picked up a few things.  "Leia told me about you. But it's just Carise now, right? Not Lady."

Rose almost smiled, remembering Leia's laughter at her own petty revenge on the woman who had outed her as the daughter of Darth Vader.

"You will not speak to me that way," Carise hotly demanded. "I am a descendant of the Elder Houses."

Did she seriously think that would impress Rose?

"Who cares?" Rose answered with an indifferent shrug.

"You little-"

"Sheath your claws, Carise." Hux interrupted. 

The woman turned back to Hux with a wicked smile. "But you liked my claws."

"That's enough," he commanded. 

"You're right, of course – not the time for that," she said, undeterred. "Now that you have rejoined the First Order - come home as it were - we will have an abundance of opportunity to become reacquainted."

Oh, Rose desperately wanted to punch this woman in the face. Where was her electro-shock prod when she needed it?

"I need to meet with the Council," Hux stated.

"Certainly," she readily agreed. "You will come to our meeting tomorrow."

"You're on the Supreme Council?" Hux appeared taken aback for the briefest moment, though Rose wasn't sure anyone but she could see it. 

"Someone with political acumen was needed. We can't have only military commanders in the leadership, can we?"

"Well, tomorrow then, Carise," Hux remarked as he turned to walk out of the hangar bay.

"It will be my pleasure, General." Rose heard her reply as they exited. A quick glance back showed Commander Opan catching the woman's attention as he approached her. 

Rose had never been on a Resurgent-class Star Destroyer. Up until now, her only experiences with the First Order navy had been the Supremacy incursion, the outer hull assault of the Steadfast, and her conversations with Hux about the fleet's capabilities. 

Though not as large as the Supremacy, the Dominion was still a massive and daunting ship. It took ages for them to reach the designated quarters. At the entrance, Captain Yarev excused himself to go and complete reports, though Rose noted that their security escort remained in the corridor. 

'Quarters,' though, was not an apt description. At first glance, the suite of connecting rooms appeared at least twice as large as her Tatooine dwelling. 

Peli and Gaia immediately began exploring. And in a reversal of Maz's cantina, it was Kaydel who froze and looked around in awe, while Dopheld took the surroundings in stride.

"Sir, I'm surprised that General Parnadee offered these rooms," Doph commented with concern.

When Rose looked to Hux in confusion, he responded, "every command ship has a dedicated suite of rooms for the Supreme Leader. The walls, floor, and ceiling are built with materials that disrupt communication outside of the personal office - Snoke was intensely private and did not allow surveillance in his rooms."

He effectively answered both her unspoken questions, but she was disgusted by the idea that she was in a room once occupied by that monster. Hux must have noticed her face. "Don't fret. Snoke never left the Supremacy, and Ren preferred his monastic quarters on the Steadfast. These rooms were essentially just a status marker and wasted space." His tone clearly stated his disapproval. 

At that, he turned back to Dopheld. "It makes sense. Parnadee has always been a sycophant. I assume she has been unable to take the leadership solely for herself and sees aligning with me as her best opportunity for more power. We can use that to our benefit."

"There seemed to be tension between General Parnadee and Councilor Sindian," Doph agreed.

Kaydel, in typical fashion, provided her own blunt assessment. "That Sindian woman is a bitch and Parnadee is a suck up."

"Succinct," Hux dryly remarked. "Lieutenant, you should visit your quarters. I will comm you when I am ready to visit the bridge. No need to seem overeager."

Again, she recalled his earlier warnings. Wasn't it exhausting to be constantly thinking about appearances and what they might say? She had only been with the Order for a few days and was already tired of it.

Once the door closed behind Doph and Kaydel, Rose whirled on Hux. "I'm waiting," she announced. Her temper had been building since the encounter with that woman.

"For what, exactly, my dear?" Hux asked as he limped over to the sitting area. Briefly distracted, Rose wondered if carrying Gaia had put too much weight on his leg.

She refocused. "For you to tell me what that was all about."

"Be more precise, Rose." Ugh! Now she knew he was just stalling – the man wasn't that dumb.

"That...woman," she clarified through clenched teeth.

"Carise?" Oh, she was going to kill him.

"She seems to know you quite well." And she seemed to want to know him again, but Rose didn't say that. She refused to let Hux think she was jealous.

"It was a long time ago."

"So you were together," Rose accused as she closed the short distance between them until her legs almost bumped his own.

"Are you jealous?" Hux's delighted smirk grated on her nerves, as he leaned back to watch her face.

"No!"

He raised his brows at her vehement denial. "Are you certain?"

"Shut up." Wow, Rose thought sarcastically – that was eloquent. 

He looked so carefree in that moment as he enjoyed Rose's discomfiture. Jerk, she thought. But it didn't stop her from wanting to reach out and touch his face. To just enjoy being in a place and time that allowed them to finally talk to each other. 

No more surveillance. No more censoring everything she wanted to say or do.

Before she could follow through, though, Gaia came running back into the room. "Mami, papa, it's huge! Are we gonna live here? There's plenty of room for my cat! I'm hungry."

As she watched, Gaia climbed up next to Hux and stood on the sofa with one arm slung around his neck. Her daughter's behavior didn't really surprise Rose – Gaia was tactile like her mother. Nor did her easy acceptance of her father. Rose knew that Gaia had a heart that just wanted to love. Also, like her mother. 

She was taken aback slightly, however, by Hux's reaction to his daughter's touch. He didn't flinch or tense or pull away - all behaviors she had seen from him before, even in response to Rose's initial touches. He didn't seek it out, at least not yet, but he accepted Gaia's touch whenever she offered it. It only reinforced her decision from the night before. 

The door chimed and Peli emerged from somewhere to open it. Doph must have requested food service. That man, Rose thought, was an absolute treasure. In a way, his organizational competence reminded her of Kaydel and how efficiently she ran the Resistance's base, though her friend was more outgoing and confident than Doph.

Rose laughed when she saw Gaia's plate - more nerf nuggets and noodles. Either Doph or Yarev had spoken to the galley. Hux, though, was still eating soup or broth, it seemed. She frowned at that and resolved to encourage a more robust diet.

After their meal, Hux excused himself and made his way to the suite's office. Rose and Peli unpacked their gear and put everything away. Rose had no intention of being here long, but she wanted Gaia to feel safe and comfortable while aboard, and that meant having her things around her. There were times, though, that Rose thought the entire Resistance had survived on fewer supplies than her four-year-old. Some days, she felt more like a quartermaster than a mother.

"I'm headed to the bridge," Hux informed her sometime later. "I commed Yarev and requested that he come by and check on you." 

Rose deduced that Hux was still worried about their safety. "We're not done talking," she warned him. The topic of Carise Sindian was still bothering her.

Hux sighed, "indeed," as he departed.

~~

Hours later, Rose found herself in a situation she could never have predicted. She, Peli, Kaydel, and Garrik (the captain had insisted) were seated in the personal quarters of the Supreme Leader of the First Order on a Star Destroyer in the Unknown Regions...getting sloshed. 

Well, the others were pretty drunk. Rose was merely relaxed – Gaia may have been asleep in the other room, but there still needed to be a responsible adult present. She couldn't recall who exactly had suggested drinks - her credits were on Peli - but they had all joined in.

While Peli and Garrik flirted outrageously, and Kaydel guffawed at the Order's ridiculous protocols, Rose brooded about that Sindian woman. Another reason that Rose rarely drank to excess was that she was, quite frankly, a sad drunk. She became mopey and teary-eyed, and it was embarrassing. 

She wasn't to that point tonight, but she did drink just enough to feel sorry for herself. Of course, Rose thought, Hux would be attracted to a woman like that - graceful and sophisticated. Tall and slender. Rich and aristocratic. Well, she used to be the last one. And Rose never was, and never would be, any of those things. He probably regretted ever being with Rose.

She was fully enjoying her little pity party when the door slid open. Hux and Dopheld entered and abruptly halted, when they noticed the state of the room's occupants.

Garrik hastily stood. "General."

"At ease." Hux's face was carefully blank, and Rose doubted that he would have ever predicted this scenario either.

Kaydel stumbled to her feet and tripped over to Doph. "My sweet husband!" she declared as she threw her arms around him. "You're so sweet. My sweet Doph!"

"Um," Doph stammered, "perhaps we should get you to bed." The lieutenant's face was bright red as he looked to Hux for permission. 

"Ooooh, you're naughty. Naughty and sweet," Kaydel crooned drunkenly. 

At Hux's "dismissed," Doph led the wobbly Kaydel from the room after collecting her shoes from near the doorway.

Rose had reverted back to the Haysian custom of removing her footwear inside the living quarters – a custom initiated to keep the mess of the mines out of the home. It had been impractical on Tatooine, but she was once again doing so. The others had noticed and respectfully begun doing the same. 

Garrik, too, headed for the door after requesting permission to leave. Unlike Kaydel, he appeared a bit abashed to be caught in his cups as he picked up his boots and left.

"See ya later, Gary!" Peli called out before stumbling to her own bedroom. 

In no time at all, Rose and Hux were left alone. 

Finally. 

"Would you care to explain?" he asked.

"Would you?" 

"What do I need to explain, Rose?" His voice was weary.

As answer, Rose simply blurted out what she had been thinking for the past few hours. "She's beautiful."

Rose's eyes brimmed with tears as she admitted her anxiety. Fuck the Force, she was going to cry after all. She really shouldn't have had that second drink. She was angry and sad, insecure and jealous, and she just wanted him to hold her.

Hux watched her for a moment before walking over and sitting down next to her. Not quite touching. Not close enough. 

"It's a cold beauty, mhaira. Brittle. And sharp enough to cut," he answered as he, too, removed his boots.

Rose was not ready to be comforted. Not even by his use of that old endearment.  "Still," she sniffed.

Hux reached out and grasped a lock of her hair. As he sat there playing with it, he said, "I prefer softness. Gentle curves. Warmth."

"Not always," she tearfully reminded him. Rose assumed she had angered him when he stood and walked away. But he only limped to the small galley that adjoined the sitting area. He returned a few minutes later with a cup of caf. 

"Drink your uncivilized beverage." He sat again, waiting for her to drink, before he continued, "it was just after I was promoted. I was the youngest general in the First Order and finally free of my father. Maratelle had been close with Carise's parents on Arkanis. Old, Imperial families," he elaborated before bitterly adding, "she thought I could give her more influence and power in the First Order. My rank was enough to overcome my status as a bastard. Barely."

Rose was dumbfounded - Hux never revealed this much without her persistently pushing him.

"What did you see in her?" She absolutely hated herself for asking that question and wanted to immediately retract it. The caf was clearly not working fast enough.

"Respectability," Hux answered bluntly. "Lineage."

"What happened?" Karking hell – she couldn't stop herself. Rose quickly put the mug to her lips. Even if the caf didn't sober her quickly enough, at least she couldn't say anything else stupid if her mouth was full of the drink.

Ignoring her embarrassment, Hux responded. "Carise didn't like being second. And I would not place anything or anyone before the First Order."

"And now?" Her caf had betrayed her, she thought, looking at the empty mug. She was still asking dumb questions.

"Don't ask me that, mhaira," his voice ordered. His eyes pleaded.

Rose was not, however, some benevolent god. Nor an obedient servant. And she was finally free to say what she thought.  "Because you don't want to say or because you don't want to choose?"

"Because it's a false dichotomy. Choosing you means choosing the Order," he rasped.

Rose was a recent convert to a selfish religion. Hux had told Maz that true believers were the most dangerous, but Rose knew he was wrong. It was converts - beings who realized that they had lived without for too long. Once they had their hands full of with, they would never let it go. No matter what.

Hux had given her the briefest glimpses of family, and she was already an addict. She needed more. 

More moments. A forever of moments. 

She also, Rose admitted to herself, needed reassurance. To know that Hux still wanted her despite whatever words he said. Or wouldn't say.

Decided, she set down the mug and reached for his face. And kissed him.

As expected, Hux stiffened and pulled back. But only a few inches. She anticipated his rejection and was, thus, surprised when he instead asked, "are you still drunk?"

"Never really was. But, n-" She barely got her response out before he was kissing her again. 

Oh, she had missed this. 

They kissed as they did before - two people who just knew each other and fit together. Lock and key.

She parted her lips in invitation, and Hux immediately responded, his tongue brushing against hers. Those five years were gone, as if they never happened. And tomorrow and the future and the until didn't matter. Not now.

The tensions of the past two weeks faded in that kiss. As ever, the galaxy receded until the only light left was the two of them. A relatively insignificant dot in that great expanse of dark but a whole, vibrant world unto themselves. 

Rose reached for his shoulder to pull herself closer but, instead, found herself on her back with Hux hovering above her. Still kissing. He braced his weight on his forearms to keep from crushing her.

Rose was having none of that, as she reached her arms around his neck and pulled him down. He groaned when their torsos met. She felt his hands touching her face and neck, moving down her arms, as if reassuring himself that she was real. And there.

When Hux's fingers moved to her chest and began caressing her breasts through her top, she stilled his hand with her own.

Because it wasn't just the two of them.

"Stop." He immediately froze, and his muscles tensed. 

Still holding him close, she quietly spoke in his ear. "Not here. Unless you're ready to explain a whole lot to your daughter."

At the reminder of Gaia, Hux drew back to a sitting position, his expression carefully blank. Rose followed, a negative charge pulled by a positive one. She held his face and kissed him lightly, murmuring entreaties. "Don't do that. Not anymore. Be with me, Armitage."

She stood and reached out her hand. After the slightest hesitation, he took it, and she pulled him up. She led him into the bedroom she had claimed as theirs - Rose didn't care that Hux could sleep somewhere else now that they were no longer under surveillance. She had made her decision. Whatever happened, she was done waiting. And if a small part of her was motivated by sheer possessiveness, so be it.

After securing the door, she tugged Hux over to the bed. Once there, she tugged off his coat before gently pushing him to sit. Standing before him, she grasped his face in her hands, thumbs brushing his cheeks.

Hux closed his eyes in contentment and leaned into her touch. Rose was reminded, once again, of that little firefox on D'Qar.

"Did you miss me?" Rose asked quietly, remembering her daughter's same question.

"So much that I hallucinated you," he confessed with eyes still closed. Opening them, he held her gaze as he added, "you're the only thing that kept me sane."

The Hux from before would have never made such a vulnerable admission. Did he know, she wondered, that he was just fueling his own defeat?

The galaxy, she supposed, was full of stories of beings that created the very weapon that destroyed them.

In answer, Rose began undoing the fastenings of her shirt. She was nervous of what Hux might think - it had been five years and one baby. Before her anxiety could overtake her, though, he reached out and halted her efforts.

"This won't change anything, mhaira," he warned her. 

Rose knew what he meant – that he still intended to send them away and stay with the Order in his deranged plan to protect her and Gaia.

"It won't," she acknowledged. Because things had already changed. He just needed time to see it.

In answer, his hands took over from hers, slowly revealing more skin. She had always thought his hands were beautiful. Well, not when she bit him - the scar from which was still visible. She had wanted to mark him. To make sure he remembered her. 

Now, that scar was insignificant compared to all the other ways they had marked each other.

He untucked her top and pulled it away, letting it drop to the floor. Hux ran his hands softly over every inch of exposed skin. They had rarely had time for lengthy foreplay on Starlight. Rose thought that maybe that's also just how he preferred it. Watching him now, though, as his mouth replaced his hands, Rose realized that assumption had been wrong. 

He still knew the right places to touch and kiss and lick. The right pressure. But he seemed to be savoring the touches, as much for his pleasure as for hers. 

When he finally pulled her undershirt down to her waist, she was relieved. His mouth closed around her nipple as he massaged her other breast gently. Hux's only reaction to the stretch marks from breastfeeding was to kiss them as he switched attention to her other breast.

Perhaps he liked the idea that he, too, had marked her.

His mouth stayed busy as his hands moved to her waistband. With minimal fuss, he pulled her undershirt and pants down so she could step out. Rose finally stood before him in nothing but her briefs.

"Perfect," he breathed.

Rose pushed him until his back met the bed before she climbed up and straddled his hips.

His hands once again found her breasts as she pressed down on his erection, careful not to place too much weight on his injured thigh.

She leaned forward, pressing her breasts to his still clothed chest, and kissed him.

"I missed this," she confessed against his lips. "I missed you."

At her admission, he grasped her hips and rolled them over until he was once again on top of her. His kisses became less teasing and more determined as his mouth migrated from hers to her neck and breasts. Down her stomach to the waistband of her briefs. 

He mouthed her through the thin material before reaching over and pulling them off. Now, she was fully bare beneath him even as Hux still wore much of his uniform.

Instead of undressing himself or moving back up to her as she expected, he lowered his head once again. Flustered, Rose grabbed his shoulder.

"I don't need…"

"I do."

"But you've never…"

Again, she had assumed that Hux simply didn't enjoy this type of intimacy. And, again, he disabused her.

"Not much room on medbay mattresses, mhaira," he quipped before bending his head again.

At the feel of his mouth and the friction of his beard, Rose sent a mental thank you to the Force that the bed, though never used, had been designed to accommodate Snoke's height specifications. 

At that irreverent thought, another surfaced, accompanied by a memory from that ill-fated mission to the Supremacy. She recalled DJ's bragging claims, and Rose's amusement turned to giggling. Soon, she was almost hysterically laughing. She slapped her hand over her mouth but couldn't suppress her mirth.

Apparently, her life could get more bizarre.

Hux looked up from between her legs in clear disapproval of her reaction. 

"I'm s-s-sorry," she stammered, trying to control her reaction. "I just…I just never thought this is how I would end up in Old Man Snoke's boudoir!"

Chapter Text

"Be serious," he admonished as Rose tried to suppress her giggles.

 While part of him was delighted to hear Rose's uninhibited laughter again, he wished it was at a more appropriate time. Not while his mouth was inches away from her cunt.

"I mean, this just doesn't happen to normal beings," she added, still trying to catch her breath from laughing.

"Who said we were normal?"

"But I am," she protested. "I'm the most ordinary woman in the galaxy."

"No, you were extraordinary trying to hide in ordinary. Anyone who took the slightest moment to look could see that. Now, be quiet."

When her giggles didn't fully subside, he nipped at the tender skin of her inner thigh. She gasped in outrage. When his mouth moved back to her cunt, she gasped again. Not in outrage.

As he licked and laved, Rose's breathy moans made him regret that he hadn't done this before. As he had told her, though, the small medbay beds on Starlight weren't made with trysts in mind. Certainly, he had fantasized about it - both before and during his imprisonment. But she still tasted even better than he had imagined. 

He took his time, recalling how Rose liked the build up of soft, teasing touches. Time had often been too precious during the war for such pleasures, and he fully intended to make up for that now. By the time his fingers entered her, she was breathing hard, her hips moving in sync with his ministrations.

The room was quiet other than Rose's soft sighs and moans. They rarely spoke in these moments. Words hadn't been needed or, if he were honest, wanted. Both of them too afraid of what they might say. Or hear. 

And for Hux, who had so often used words to manipulate and threaten, they felt intrusive here. Too mundane and imprecise when compared to the language of Rose's skin.

So when Rose gasped, "please," he looked up to find her watching him with a pleading look. Understanding, he held her gaze as his mouth closed around her clit, and he sucked. He let his teeth graze her just as he curled his fingers inside her, and she came undone.

He stayed with her through the aftershocks as her breathing slowed and her body went limp. Sitting up, he pulled off his uniform's tunic and undershirt. He was concerned about what Rose would think – he had always been lean, but prison had stripped of even more weight, as well as much of the muscle he had. 

Thin as a slip of paper.

And he could only exercise so much in a bare cell and with an injured leg. He worried that she wouldn't want him in this frail state.

Her contented sigh and laugh interrupted his derisive thoughts. "You're definitely keeping the beard," she informed him with a pleased smile as she held out her hand. 

"Noted." He placed his hand in hers and allowed her to tug him closer until he was hovering over her, braced on his arms. She kissed him as he lowered his torso slowly, and they swallowed each other's sighs when they were finally, finally, skin-to-skin.

Fuck. He had missed this.

He had tried to convince himself in prison that she couldn't be as soft and warm as he remembered. Maybe, then, he wouldn't ache for her so much. But she was - if not more so.

Rose, too, was running her hands along his arms and shoulders, touching his back, and threading her fingers through his hair. Reacquainting herself with his shape and, seemingly, not finding him wanting.

He worshiped her with his mouth and hands,  remembering the places and ways she liked to be touched. And it reassured him in a way he hadn't even realized he needed. So much had changed in the galaxy in the past five years –  but Rose still sighed when he kissed the sensitive skin below her ear. Still laughed when he did the same to her navel.

She was his constant. Even when all he could do was imagine her. Everything made sense when she was in his arms.

So how could he let her go again? 

He pushed the traitorous thought aside as he kissed her again. Kriff, he could kiss this woman forever, he thought, as their tongues tangled. His lips eventually traveled to the sensitive skin of her neck, and she tilted her head away to give him more access. Slightly out of breath, she said, "I need…"

"I know what you need," he interrupted, his mouth on hers again as he slid his hand towards her core. Some instinct warned him against letting her finish that statement.

Undeterred, though, Rose touched his face, using just enough pressure to halt the kiss. 

"No, I need to tell you," she insisted, grabbing his hand before it could reach its destination. He held his breath when he recognized the determined look on her beautiful face - his plans were about to be upset. 

"I love you."

He tensed at her words and knew she felt it. He loathed himself for that.

"Mhaira…"

When he said nothing else, she kissed him again, softly, before saying, "I know."

Did she? He had never said those words. Not that he could recall, at least. Was there a chance he had once said them to his mother? Perhaps. Perhaps that's how he learned never to say those words again.

Never to think about love. Never to feel it. Before Rose, he had believed himself incapable of love. He maintained that belief even after they began their affair. Even at their last meeting on Starlight.

It wasn't until Ren dumped Boolio's head on the table in front of the Supreme Council that he knew. Boolio - who was Rose's mining contact and who knew her identity.

And in that moment, he knew. Without doubt. Because that amount of fear simply couldn't exist without love.

And all he could think, as Ren droned on, was that he had to tell her. That he would tell her if they survived.

That was five years ago. 

And now he had a chance to finally do so. And he couldn't. He couldn't say the words.

"Pathetic. Weak. Useless."

His father was right – he was a coward. Rose deserved better.

"Stop. Armitage, stop." Hux was pulled back from his spiraling thoughts to find Rose holding his face as she murmured, soothingly, "come back. Shh. I know. I know, Armitage. Just be with me."

What did she know? That he loved her? Or that he was a coward?

Didn't she understand that she shouldn't want his love? His love for her was like dark energy that he had once harnessed for Starkiller. Abundant. Everywhere. Almost impossible to detect, but, once focused, it was a weapon. His love was dangerous - he was Starkiller, after all. Hux was convinced that he would ultimately hurt her.

He couldn't say the words. But he could show her.

He shifted, settling between her thighs, and pressed their bodies together again. He captured her mouth as his hips pressed into hers. He swallowed her moans when he rocked against her, his hand roaming over her body.

She arched into him, telling him she wanted more. When he didn't react quickly enough for her, she found the waistband of his jodhpurs and slipped her hand inside, slipping below to find hot, hard skin. Force, he ached.

"Impatient girl," he chided against her lips.

"Five years," she reminded him.

He shifted away just long enough to remove his pants. Once bare, he settled his weight back onto her. She closed her eyes and exhaled at the feel of his skin. He waited until she opened her eyes again before capturing her gaze as he slowly pushed into her, seating himself in her warmth.

He would never hear anyone refer to home again without thinking of this moment, he thought. Space could never be cold in Rose's embrace.

He moved inside her, his strokes slow and languid. They had time, and he wanted to make this last, unknowing whether they would have any more such moments together. 

Rose's knees came up, opening herself up even further so he could press deeper. 

"Good girl."

He felt her hands clutch at his shoulders as he nuzzled her neck, taking in her scent. He almost smiled, realizing that she smelled the same – like salt and sea. 

His mhaira. 

His home.

Without thinking, he found himself murmuring to her in Arkanisian. It was somehow easier than Basic. He knew she couldn't understand him, even as she pulled her legs higher until they were wrapped around his waist. He felt her nails scrape his back as she clutched at him, trying to bring him somehow closer.

Pulling him underneath the water with her.

He gladly followed, pressing into her body as deeply as he could. Reaching out, he interlaced their fingers just as he lengthened his thrusts and gave her everything. 

He felt her legs shaking as the tension in her core grew. When he reached down and pressed against her clit with his other hand, she broke. Two more thrusts and he followed, spilling himself inside her. 

After a few moments, he pulled out, though he didn't shift away. Not yet. He couldn't bear to yet. He dropped his head to her chest, kissing between her breasts, as he felt her heartbeat slow and her breathing even out. 

He would have stayed like that indefinitely if not for his leg. As the flood of endorphins turned into a trickle, the ache in his leg returned, and he reluctantly shifted his weight off her. Rose's protest halted when he pulled her to him, laying her head on his chest, before pulling the bed covers over them. As they caught their breaths, his thoughts were preoccupied with the feeling of having Rose in his arms once again. 

He had told her it wouldn't change anything. Perhaps he had even believed it for a moment. But Rose was a catalyst. She changed everything. Always had.

And she loved him. 

And she had told him. 

Leave it to Rose to remove all chance at plausible deniability or pretense. They had always avoided discussions of feelings – held each other in embraces loose enough to allow the other to slip away.

Knowing was not the same as declaring. They could still pretend if it wasn’t said.

No more. She had secured him with an unbreakable grip with her admission. Rose may not have been a soldier, but she once again proved she was a fighter. And Hux would have gladly surrendered if circumstances were different. 

He needed to remind Rose of the reasons why they couldn't be together. 

He needed to remind himself. 

"I don't know how to be a parent, mhaira."

He heard Rose's scoff, though she didn't raise her head. "No one does until they are," she assured him. "And even then, you're really just making it up as you go. At first, I counted it as a win that she was still alive at the end of every day.

"I don't believe that. Being a mother seems natural for you."

Admittedly, Hux had little experience with mothers - even his own - but Rose made it seem effortless. 

He was once again warmed by her laughter.

"Ha! In the middle of my labor, I told Rey, Peli, and the midwife that I changed my mind – I didn't want to be a mother after all. I got up, got dressed, and walked out. They found me on the Millennium Falcon taking the hyperdrive apart."

"They didn't stop you?" Hux was appalled that Rose had not received better medical attention in childbirth.

"By that point, I think they were afraid of me."

"Then what happened?"

"Then your daughter was born on the Falcon." He could hear the smug satisfaction in her voice when she revealed that tidbit.

"Of course she was."

It made perfect sense that his child was born on that piece of junk. A Hux born in a garbage freighter on a nowhere planet. Though his own illegitimate birth was less than noble itself, he admitted. 

Rose interrupted his musings about the Force's malicious sense of irony when she lifted her head so that her chin rested on his shoulder. Her expression turned serious as she held his gaze.

"You know, the first time I held her, I didn't feel like a mom. Don't get me wrong, I loved her. Just not the way I thought I should. I kept thinking that I didn't know her. And how do you love a person you don't know? Really, I think I was just scared – that I would lose her like I lost you."

Before Hux could interrupt her with platitudes, she placed a finger over his lips and continued. 

"But the next day, I held her and fed her and realized I loved her a little more. And every day after that, I loved her more than the day before. It finally hit me that it was a gift –  being able to feel myself fall in love with my child," she explained with awe in her voice. "Even now, everytime I think that I couldn't possibly love her any more, I look at her, and I somehow do."

At the end of her explanation, Rose laid her head back down with a soft smile.

"Sounds silly, doesn't it?"

"Not in the least," he assured her, grateful that she did not see his gaze on her. Hux understood the experience she described all too well. 

Though he was not thinking about Gaia. With her, Hux was lost from the moment he opened that file on the datapad. 

"She already loves you," Rose remarked as if reading his thoughts.

"She shouldn't." His voice was rough as he forced the words out. "Neither should you. We both know I'm not a good man."

He had never regretted that fact before.

"Gaia won't care. She wants a good father, not a good man."

"And you?"

Rose deserved a hero. Someone she could be proud of. Certainly, Rose made him want to be better, but Hux was well aware of who he was and who he would never be. 

"I want her to have a good father."

Annoyed at her refusal to acknowledge the truth, he sniped, "don't be obtuse, Rose."

She was quiet for a few moments, but Hux's assumption that she was angry was disabused when she replied with a thoughtful voice.

"My father was a good man, you know? He always tried to do the right thing. To follow the rules. To take care of his family. But, in the end, he couldn't protect his family or his home." 

Hux heard both the sadness and the acceptance in Rose's answer. Sometimes, the Light wasn't enough. Her next comment, spoken quietly, confirmed his perception. 

"This galaxy isn't very kind to good men."

He thought she was done, but a moment later, he felt a little wetness on his shoulder just before Rose quietly murmured, "and it kills its heroes."

~~

The next day, as Hux and Lieutenant Mitaka walked to the Supreme Council meeting, he reflected on Rose's words. 

She claimed that she accepted him for who he was. That she loved him despite his deeds and failings.

Rose, the mechanic who enjoyed taking everything apart. Not because she liked breaking things but because she valued them. Most beings only appreciated an engine or droid when it was complete and functional, but Rose valued each individual part and its importance – down to the smallest bolts. And because of that attention, the machines were always better after she rebuilt them.

It's what made her such a good mother, in his opinion. She paid attention to details, and she didn't dismiss anything as too trivial when it came to her daughter. Rose's eyes lit up every time Gaia entered a room, and, he was sure, the little girl noticed. Only a child absolutely secure in her caregivers' love could be as confident as Gaia.

He had, of course, been the recipient of Rose's attention in the past. But it had been constrained by time and wartime priorities. What would it be like to be with her in peace and safety, he dared to wonder. If he allowed, would she take him apart? Put him back together again, whole, but better? 

That question was as frightening to him as the other one that wouldn't be silenced. The one he had been trying to ignore because it seemed too ridiculous to even contemplate. 

Could they be a family? 

Rose thought so – she made that clear. And he saw no reason to lie to himself and to deny that he wanted to be with her and Gaia. But at what cost? Hux had always found a way to justify the price of achieving his desires.  The price here, though, could be too high.

He knew Rose and Gaia could never be safe so long as the war continued between the Coalition and the First Order. They would inevitably be caught and crushed in the middle.

Could he possibly find a way to have both, though? To protect them and still be together?

Recalling his daughter's insistence that morning that she should be allowed to go to the meeting with him, Hux was reminded of his own stubborn ability to persist. He had survived his father, the First Order, war, Siths, and prison. 

He remade the galaxy once for power. For love, he could do so again.

Reaching the Council's room, he packed those thoughts away in lieu of immediate priorities. For any of his objectives to be achieved, he needed to regain his leadership position in the High Command. 

Upon entering, he noted six Councilors as well as numerous aides. Hux recognized Carise and Parnadee, of course, as well as Peavey. The remaining three were known to him, though not as well. Among the aides seated near the walls, he recognized Opan and Lieutenant Lusica Stynnix. Both, he remembered, had been present at the exchange on Castilon.

The majority of the other aides were familiar, although he couldn't recall names at the moment. 

"General, do take a seat," Parnadee invited. "I believe you know everyone present, although you and I are the only officers present who served on the Council under the Supreme Leader." She was already attempting to align herself with Hux, he noted, insinuating that their credentials were more legitimate.

The other Councilors nodded in greeting as Hux took his seat. He noted Opan's scowl and Carise's artificial smile before Parnadee continued.

"You will find meetings are less…tense now that we don't have to be worried that we will be thrown against the ceiling or force choked." The conspiratorial smirk that accompanied her statement only annoyed him, though. He would choose his allies – not the other way around. 

"Well, that brings it out into the open," Admiral Oram Cors dryly commented. 

"Yes, let's address the Sith in the room, shall we?" Carise opined.

"General Hux, most of the Councilors are of the opinion that your motivations for undermining Kylo Ren and the Emperor-"

"I still don't believe it was really Palpatine," Peavey interrupted.

"Regardless," Parnadee continued. "As I said, the majority support your intentions though not your methods."

"I do not." 

"Ignore Admiral Peavey. Most of us do," Carise interjected in a dismissive tone. "The only reason he is on the Council is out of deference to his seniority."

Hux knew that Peavey had never liked him. The feeling was, in fact, quite mutual. But Peavey was a loyal military officer and of the generation that Yarev had named as more Isolationist. He could be quite useful.

"Admiral Peavey and I worked quite effectively together on the Finalizer and the Supremacy. His professionalism and loyalty should be commended," he replied with a deferential nod at the man, who sat straighter, preening at the compliment.

"The Supreme Council understands that, if not for your actions, we would likely be under the rule of those cultists. And, of course, no one respected Ren."

Hux kept a straight face at Parnadee's observation. She may not have respected Ren, but she had notoriously toadied up to him.

"Quite. He either died a deserter, a traitor, or a fool." Peavey, too, hadn't respected the Force users in the Order.

"As such, we welcome you back and reinstate your rank in the First Order. As proof of our goodwill, we would also like to offer your former Council seat to you."

It was clear that Parnadee was working to set herself apart as the Council's spokesperson and de facto leader. That, however, would not do. Hux decided that he needed to push back and to start carving out his authority. 

"Goodwill?" His voice was noticeably skeptical. "Not because you want the Empion mine designs?"

"If that was all, we have your little Resistance wife and child to ensure your cooperation." Carise's spiteful response drew disapproving looks from the rest of the Council. Hux, though, had a more forceful reaction. 

"Say that again." He held her gaze for several moments as her smirk slowly disappeared. The entire room was quiet and tense as the former lovers stared at each other. "Say it again," Hux dared her. "Then run."

Opan jumped to his feet just as Carise's fist hit the table. The room erupted in nervous murmurs.

Good. 

Hux wanted the Councilors to either ally with him or fear him. Preferably both.

"Everyone, calm down," Parnadee ordered. "No harm will come to the General's family. We have read your report, as well as Lieutenant Mitaka's, and we applaud your wife's efforts against the Coalition. Of course, if she has any intelligence that would benefit the Remnant, we would be appreciative."

"I am afraid that, for the past five years, she was practically hiding from the Coalition to protect my daughter. She has no such information to share." Whether she did or not, Hux knew she wouldn't. 

"Well, we certainly admire her priorities. The future of the First Order rests with its children," General Haera Keteris spoke for the first time.

"While it is irregular, General Hux, to have family aboard the command ship, the circumstances here are unique." Parnadee once again seemed to be aligning herself with Hux. "I am confident that you will ensure she and her party abide by our rules."

"As a member of the Supreme Council, you will have to do the same," Peavey interjected.  "One man's whims will not dictate the Remnant's actions anymore."

"I am not opposed," Hux assured them. "We have, unfortunately, witnessed the consequences of following a single leader with myopic focus."

"Hear, hear."

"I've read the reports, and I believe our priority must be the creation of defensible boundaries. We cannot evade the Coalition forever," Hux observed. "The effort is unsustainable."

"Agreed. Which is why we need the Empion mines. If we can block the hyperspace lanes and prevent the Coalition from reaching us, then we can focus on rebuilding our resources."

A fact he had recognized when he reviewed Rose's reports back on the Lady Luck. It had been obvious to him, then, that the Remnant was trying to secure the Empion designs. 

Nods of agreement throughout the room accompanied Parnadee's assessment. Hux, however, focused on another question that had been bothering him for some time. 

"How are they accessing the hyperspace lanes this deep in the Unknown Regions? The Coalition should not possess that astrogation data. Are they receiving assistance?"

"Not that we are aware," answered Admiral Cors. "Our contacts with the Chiss Ascendancy assure us that they are no more pleased with these incursions than we are, though the Coalition has yet to violate Chiss space. They aren't using the Navigator's Guild either. One theory is that they obtained your hyperspace tracking system." The accusation was said with an anxious look at Hux.

"No," he countered. "Neither the Resistance nor the Coalition ever had access to the complete schematics. And I do not believe they could design it on their own."

"Are you certain your little wife didn't tell them?" Carise had, apparently, recovered her bravado.

"As certain as I am of your loyalty, Carise." Hux’s tone did not reveal his ire. The less attention the Council gave to Rose and Gaia, the better.

"They couldn't have access to the data needed for a tracking system to function. The Coalition hasn't spent decades logging the hyperspace lanes in the Unknown Regions as we have."

"We will continue to investigate how the Coalition has acquired that astrogation data, then." Parnadee once again stepped in. "Regardless, though, we need to mine the lanes."

"The Ascendancy could view that as an act of aggression," Keteris observed.

"Agreed. We need to meet with their representatives," Hux concluded. "The Remnant cannot afford to have both the Coalition and the Chiss as enemies."

A conflict with the Ascendancy needed to be avoided at all costs. The Order had spent decades in the Unknown Regions, but the Chiss had been here for centuries. They had the advantage. 

"Are you suggesting that we negotiate with an alien species?" Carise's sneering tone made it clear that she was as xenophobic as she had ever been. 

"I am suggesting that we not antagonize the most powerful military in the Unknown Regions."

This had always been a fatal flaw for the First Order – the constant struggle between ideology and pragmatism. Unfortunately, ideology typically won – the defeat at Exogol was proof of that. It was past time for the leadership to make realistic and pragmatic decisions. 

"How quickly can we produce enough mines to effectively seed the necessary hyperspace corridors?" This question was from General Antar Nord. Though he had not spoken previously in the meeting, his constant glances at Carise indicated that Nord sided with her.

"Two to three months. The design requires some refinement and testing," Hux hedged. "Then, we will have to reconfigure one of the munitions plants still online and secure."

"Once we have protected our territory here, we can start laying the mines in the Outer Rim," Nord continued. 

"We have discussed this! The Remnant should focus on rebuilding the First Order here. Expanding into the Outer Rim or Coalition territory again is not in our best interests!"

Peavey's remarks confirmed Yarev's assessment of the Isolationist faction. After decades of conflict and two wars, the older officers wanted peace. Ironically, Hux thought, if the Coalition had just been more conciliatory, there may not have been an Order Remnant at all.

"I disagree. It is our destiny," argued Nord.

"It is our demise!"

Based on the Councilors' expressions and postures, Hux could easily identify the factions. Unsurprisingly, Carise and Nord were Expansionist allies, while Peavey, Cors, and Keteris represented the Isolationists. Judging from her neutral expression, Parnadee was uncommitted. She was likely waiting for an indication of Hux's stance before deciding which side to support.

He had no intention of showing his hand this soon, though.

"Enough," Hux ordered. "These are decisions for later. Our only priority now is to secure the fleet. Esoteric debate over the future is unproductive."

Parnadee's reticence disappeared at this mention of the future. Her expression turned avaricious as she spoke, reminding Hux of her demeanor under Ren.

"We will have no future if we do not address the Order's need for enlisted personnel. Without Jinata Security, we must find alternate means to restart that part of Project Resurrection. The Remnant needs children, like the General's daughter, if we are to survive."

At the mention of Gaia, Hux's blood ran cold. He had sworn that her future would be different. In fact, the thought of child soldiers was something he could no longer stomach at all.

Rose was no longer his only weakness. 

He needed the Council to focus on defensive measures rather than rebuilding for now. 

"No," he countered. "Until we have a stable territory and boundaries, new recruits will only be a burden on our resources."

"But we must train-"

"I said no," he sharply interrupted. 

"Careful, General. That is a decision for the entire Council." Carise's admonishment only frustrated him more.

"If the Council had been able to make decisions, you wouldn't have spent the last five years in constant retreat," he retorted despite knowing better. He needed to consolidate his authority, and alienating the other Councilors would not accomplish that.

"I am simply pointing out that we should have one clear objective. Once the Remnant succeeds in that, we may consider future strategies."

He looked at the other Councilors for their assent and found all but Carise agreeing with his assessment.  "So, our primary goals are to construct and produce the Empion mines and to engage the Ascendancy in discussion of our intentions."

"Engage? Intentions? The First Order should dictate, not discuss."

Carise was clearly unhappy to see the Council following Hux's leadership so readily.

"Politicians may sacrifice lives and resources needlessly, but military leaders do not." Hux's tone left his opinion of politicians in no doubt, and several Councilors nodded their agreement. "Negotiation with the Ascendancy may prevent troops from being lost in avoidable battles. And it costs the Remnant nothing to have those conversations. You did not grow up out here in the Chaos, thus, your ignorance is understandable. But I suggest you do not speak of things you know nothing about."

"Do not lecture me like I am a child!"

"Then do not presume to sacrifice my troops because of your prejudices!"

Every Councilor and Officer in that room heard Hux's deliberate, possessive claim on the soldiers. It boded well for his plans that no one refuted it.

The meeting adjourned soon after with each Council member offering deferential compliments to Hux as they and their aides headed back to their own ships. Carise, however, motioned for Opan and Stynnix to go ahead, while she lingered. Hux dismissed Lieutenant Mitaka as well, knowing that a confrontation was imminent. 

The aides were barely through the door when she rounded on him. "This is that little mechanic's doing, isn't it?"

"Do not speak of her like that," he warned.

"I'm right, though. You're going to side with those defeatists, aren't you? She's turned you into a coward."

"Be very careful, Carise."

"Or what," she scoffed. "Don't you want revenge on the Coalition? I wonder whether you really believe anymore."

"I believe." In what, he didn't say.

Seeing her anger wasn't having the desired effect, Carise's voice turned cajoling. "Don't you remember how well we fit?" She moved closer as she continued. "Think of it – we could lead the First Order together. Do it right this time. We could become Emperor and Empress."

By this point, she was almost touching him. Hux took a decisive step back before he answered. 

"No."

She moved closer again. "I can help you get everything you have always wanted - power, prestige, respect. What can she offer you?"

"More than I deserve."

Carise's face was furious as he turned and walked away.

~~

Hours later, as Hux and the Dominion's command officers reviewed status reports on the bridge, he was preoccupied by concerns over Carise. He recalled his warning to Kanata about true believers. Hux knew that Carise didn't want him – she wanted the First Order, and he was just a potential means. More importantly, she believed in her vision of the First Order. And that made her dangerous. 

Hux was suddenly pulled from his thoughts by proximity alarms.

"Report," he barked.

"Sir, sensors have detected multiple craft coming out of hyperspace," one of the lieutenants reported from the tracking station. "Appears to be a Coalition battle group. Reading three Star Cruisers in arrow formation. They've launched four squadrons of X-wings.  Bearing zero four six mark two eight nine at two thousand kilometers, sir."

"Alert all commands," Hux ordered. "Deploy the Relentless and the Bellicose to a defensive rear perimeter formation alongside the Dominion. Launch three squadrons. Engage the forward X-wings only, lens formation. Order the rest of the fleet to retreat and rendezvous at Position Onith Nine."

"But, sir, those coordinates-"

"I'm well aware, Lieutenant," Hux cut off the young navigation officer. "Follow your orders."

While the majority of the bridge officers scrambled to carry out his commands, one captain challenged the decision to retreat. "General, we have superior firepower and numbers. We should engage."

Part of Hux agreed and wanted nothing more than to destroy the Coalition ships. However, he would not take the risk with Rose and Gaia on board. Besides, his long term objectives were more important than a small and meaningless victory here.

"Negative," he responded. "They have likely signaled for reinforcements, and we must conserve our resources."

The captain nodded at Hux's rationale and hurried away to complete his tasks.

"Prime the ion cannons and target their weapons and shields array," he commanded as he eyed the enemy ships through the transparisteel viewport. "Have Relentless and Bellicose coordinate their cannons to fire in a sequential pattern. Those Coalition cruisers have a tighter maximum firing range than we do. Stand by turbolasers unless they breach the TIE's defensive line."

As usual, technology was to the Order's advantage. Their weapons were superior in power and distance. 

As a younger officer, Hux had often been ridiculed for the constant battle simulations he had run and studied. But the data and information collected from those war games had proved valuable in predicting the enemy's capabilities and tactics in battle. 

As he watched the fighters engage, he noted that General Parnadee had not yet made it to the bridge. 

"Where's Parnadee?"

"Unknown, sir. I commed her as soon as the Coalition showed up on sensors."

"Cannons are hot, sir," alerted the weapons officer.

Noting that the TIE pilots were holding their own in the dogfights, Hux judged the speed at which the cruisers were closing. They needed to hold them off a few more minutes until the fleet had safely jumped to hyperspace. 

"Fire," he ordered once the enemy ships were in range. Hux watched as the Coalition shields repelled the volleys from the three Destroyers' cannons as they continued to approach. At this distance, he knew only superficial damage would occur.

"The fleet has jumped, General."

Hux experienced a moment of relief, noting that the Dominion would be able to jump shortly.

"Order Relentless and Bellicose to retreat and jump. We will cover them as they reposition."

"Sir, Coalition ships have closed within optimal weapons' range and are targeting," the tactical officer reported. "Evasive maneuvers?"

"Negative," Hux responded. The Dominion needed to present a target for the enemies' weapons, so that the other ships could escape. "Fire turbolasers. Focus on the lead ship," he ordered. "Yaw rotation one-eighty and increase power to the rear shields. Pull back the fighters. Jump immediately once they are onboard."

"Their cannons have locked on."

"Incoming!" an officer warned.

"Brace!" 

The impact on their shields was minimal, though the ship shuddered enough to cause bridge officers to stumble.

"Are the cannons recharged?"

It would take several more moments for the Dominion to position itself for the jump and for the fighters to land.

"Not yet, sir. Relentless and Bellicose are clear. Another volley!"

"X-wings incoming!"

"Brace!"

The Dominion shuddered more strongly this time as the X-wings' strafing runs combined with the turbolaser hits on the shield.

"Fighters on board, sir. Coordinates entered and in position."

Finally.

"Jump!" Hux ordered just before the stars turned into streaks of light and all was quiet once again.

He could think only of Rose and Gaia. Despite pressing post-battle duties, Hux needed to confirm for himself that they were unharmed. As he hurried from the bridge, Lieutenant Mitaka in tow, he snapped orders at the bridge officers. "I want a damage assessment. And, for kriff's sake, find Parnadee. Tell her to report to me immediately."

As soon as the door slid open, Gaia ran to him and threw her little arms around his legs. "Papa!"

Without thinking, he scooped her up in one arm and settled her on his hip, as he looked around the living area to find Rose and the other two women watching him apprehensively. Captain Yarev was present as well, and Hux was grateful that he had thought to come. Docked as it was, the Archer couldn't have contributed to the battle regardless.

"Is everyone alright?"

"Yeah," Rose confirmed. "What happened?"

"A Coalition Battle Group." He noted the uneasy glances between Rose and the Connix woman at this information. 

"Another incursion, sir?"

"Yes, Captain. They came out of hyperspace close to the fleet's position."

"The Coalition has become suspiciously precise in its attacks recently, sir." Yarev voiced Hux's own misgivings regarding the enemy's abilities. 

"Indeed. However, it appears that all the Remnant ships escaped with minimal damage to either side," he added for Rose's benefit. "We're safe."

"For now," Rose observed with a frown. 

"Were you afraid, papa?" Hux noted that Gaia was holding the green blanket that she slept with. 

"No. Were you, ta'ima?" Hux was not prepared for his reaction at the thought of his daughter cowering in fear. 

"Nuh uh," she answered to his intense relief. "It was just loud. Like a pod race."

The door chimed, and Lieutenant Mitaka moved to answer. Several moments later, he returned with one of the Security officers.

"We have located General Parnadee, sir." The officer appeared anxious as he delivered the update.

"Well, where is she?" Hux was impatient to complete the debriefing. He desired to complete the necessary duties as swiftly as possible so that he could spend the evening with Rose and Gaia.

"In her quarters, sir. Deceased."

Chapter Text

Rose lied in bed, her daughter snuggled next to her, as she waited for Hux's return. He had taken Dopheld and Garrik with him after the security officer had informed him of Parnadee.

She had wanted to wait up for him, but Gaia had been uncharacteristically clingy and begged to sleep with her – whether it was due to the battle or her papa's tense departure, she didn't know. When the door finally slid open, she saw Hux glance at the bed before grabbing some night clothes and heading to the fresher. When he returned, he reached out to lift Gaia.

"Don't - she wanted to sleep with us."

"I'm only moving her to the other side. So you don't kick her."

"I'll kick you, then," Rose teased as he arranged his sleeping daughter and got in bed and laid on his back.

"I deserve it."

Rose reached across him, taking his hand and tugging until he turned on his side to face her.

"Parnadee?" she asked, keeping her voice quiet.

"Dead." His voice was flat and his face expressionless, setting off warning bells in her head.

"Killed?"

"Likely," he confirmed. "Medbay will conduct the tests, but I suspect poison."

"Who?"

"Not me."

Rose was unsure whether he was joking, or whether he believed she actually suspected him. She didn't. Not that she believed Hux incapable of it, but she knew he wouldn't do anything to endanger her or Gaia. If he thought Parnadee was an imminent threat to them, though, she had no doubt he would do it.

She hated that Hux insisted on putting himself in a situation where he could be forced to make that choice. What worried her more, though, was that such a decision didn't bother her as much as it once would have. 

"Are you a suspect?"

"Likely," he repeated.  His tone, more than his dearth of an answer, made her think that he was withholding information. He knew more than he was willing to admit at the moment.  "I have some theories," he added, confirming her suspicion.

"And?"

"Not tonight. We'll speak tomorrow." He pulled her closer, tucking her head underneath his chin. If his embrace was tighter than usual, if she could feel the tension in his arms, she said nothing.

~~

They still had not had a chance to talk privately by the time Hux left for meetings and reports the next day. Gaia seemed to sense the tension and was insistent on staying close to one or both of them.

Rose, herself, was feeling out of sorts. Since joining the fleet, she had stayed with Gaia while Hux was busy with his important, evil First Order-type things. Peli and Kaydel were also helping with Gaia, and it left Rose at loose ends. She hated feeling useless. 

Hyperspace travel, itself, was often uneventful – unless you were on the Millennium Falcon – and Rose usually found it calming. But, on the Dominion, Rose was almost bored out of her mind. She was about to ask Peli if she could take apart the mouse droid again when the door chimed.

On the other side, Rose found a young First Order officer. She seemed vaguely familiar despite her rather nondescript appearance. 

"Lieutenant, can I help you?"

"Councilor Sindian requested that I bring these reports to General Hux, ma'am," she politely answered as she offered Rose a datapad. 

"Sure-"

"Lulu!!"

Rose turned to find her daughter barreling across the room at the young officer. Before she could stop her, Gaia threw herself against the woman. The young lieutenant laughed and pulled her up into her arms.

That was when Rose realized where she had seen the officer before. She had accompanied Gaia to the exchange on Castilon. Rose wanted to pull her daughter from the woman's arms, but she noted the warm smiles they both presented. 

"Hey there, Gigi! How's my little general?"

"Mami, this is Lus'ca," Gaia explained. "She took care of me and played with me 'til you and papa came."

Despite her role in the kidnapping, the mother in Rose was grateful to the officer for caring for Gaia and doing her best to limit the trauma. And it would only hurt her daughter if Rose revealed her lingering anger now.

"Thank you for that, I guess," Rose reluctantly offered. "Lieutenant-?"

"Stynnix, ma'am."

"Can she come in and play?" 

Rose was not enthusiastic about having her daughter's kidnapper drop in for a play date. 

"The lieutenant is probably busy, baby," she hedged.

"Please." Rose really was no better than Hux when faced with her daughter's begging. 

"Do you have time to come in for a caf?" Rose hoped that Lieutenant Stynnix would decline, but she simply set Gaia down with a smile before responding. 

"I just ended my duty cycle, actually. I have four hours until the next one."

The young woman followed Rose into the sitting area where Peli and Kaydel waited. She made introductions before walking to the small galley for the caf. As it brewed, she heard the murmurs of conversation punctuated by Gaia's excited giggles.

Upon returning with a mug and pot, she saw that Gaia was showing her toys to the lieutenant. Rose offered the mug and refilled everyone else's as she sat.

"You are on Councilor Sindian's staff?" Rose attempted to keep the disdain for that woman from her tone.

"Yes, ma'am," she answered with a barely there grimace. "I was assigned to be her military aide when she joined the fleet."

"How were you on the Archer then?" Kaydel, perceptive as always, asked.

"The Councilor wanted an additional pair of eyes on the mission. In addition to Major Opan."

Rose would have to report that information to Hux later.

"I suppose I should thank you for taking care of Gaia and keeping her from being scared." Rose wanted to be mad at the young woman, but, in truth, she seemed open and honest. Even apologetic. 

"I know what it's like to be thrust into a situation without your parents or any of your comforts. I tried to make it as easy for her as I could."

The lieutenant's comments made Rose think of Finn. Which, of course, led to thoughts of Rey and Jannah as well as Hux and even Ben Solo. A generation of lost children. 

How could they be expected to rebuild the galaxy?

"Were you taken as a child?"

"No ma'am, I'm from an Imperial family loyal to the cause. Like Lieutenant Mitaka," she added with a nod toward Kaydel, "and most of the younger officers, my family sent me to one of the mobile Academies out here as a child. I grew up in the First Order."

The First Order, Rose mused – an army of child soldiers and Imperial relics.

"You never wanted to leave?" Kaydel asked curiously. 

"Hard to leave the only thing you know, Kay," Peli answered before the lieutenant could speak, though she nodded at the older woman's statement. 

"This is my life," she added. "The people I love are all here."

At that, Rose had a moment of unexpected sonder. She had never really allowed herself to think of First Order soldiers as people with loves and lives and losses. Those that she had – Hux, Dopheld, Garrik – Rose had seen as exceptions. 

As she sat and looked at the lieutenant, Rose felt her perception suddenly and uncomfortably shift. Here was a woman, just a few years younger than she and Kaydel, doing her best in the world she was born into.

Certainly, Finn and Jannah had found ways to leave the First Order, but they were exceptional. And it was possible that their Force sensitivity played a part. Perhaps, Rose realized, there were a number of people in the Order simply doing their best to live decent lives. 

It was an uncomfortable thought.

"Can Perri come play?" Gaia asked the lieutenant, pulling Rose from her discordant thoughts. 

"Peera is probably busy right now, Gigi," the young woman answered with a shake of her head.

"Your wife, Lieutenant Stynnix?"

"Partner," Lieutenant Stynnix confirmed. "And please call me Lusica. The Order does not allow spouses or immediate family to serve on the same ship, so we have not made it formal yet. Perhaps once the fleet finds safe harbor, we can marry."

"Safe harbor? In the Unknown Regions? You wish to settle out here?" Hux had briefly mentioned that a number of officers were what he called Isolationists, but Rose hadn't realized it was so widespread. 

"Most of us do, ma'am. We just want to find a home and be left alone."

"But the war?" Kaydel's interjection revealed that she was just as surprised as Rose to hear this sentiment. 

"The younger officers and subadults had no say in that decision, ma'am. None of us, including your husband." Rose couldn't help but see Kaydel's blush at the mention of Dopheld. "We were taught that it was our destiny to defeat the New Republic, but it wasn't home to any of us."

"Home was in the Unknown Regions?"

"It was wherever my fellow soldiers were," the lieutenant affirmed. "But, yes, we were raised out here in the Chaos. And most species here focus on their own sovereignty and leave the others alone."

"Other species? I thought the First Order was really xenophobic," Kaydel countered.

"Many of the nations out here are, actually," the young woman agreed. "Like the Chiss. But that attitude is a disappearing holdover from the Imperial generation. Supreme Leader Snoke, himself, was a non-human."

Rose had always wondered about that. How a notoriously prejudiced Imperial Remnant had chosen a non-human as its leader, Palpatine's influence or not.

"So you want peace." Rose could do nothing to disguise the skepticism in her own voice. 

"We want to be left alone. Now that General Hux has returned, many of us are hopeful that he will lead us in that direction and keep the pro-war faction in check."

The optimism and conviction Lusica exhibited in her answer made her seem even younger. Rose was reminded of how Hux liked to refer to her as naive.

"You have a great deal of faith in your General. How do you know he won't push for war?"

"Because of you, ma'am," Lusica answered confidently with a smile." Everybody knows about you two – how he risked everything to be with you. And now we know how you were kept cruelly apart and how you rescued him. It's so romantic!"

"Oh boy!"

Peli's succinct reaction mirrored Rose's own, though she didn't share in the older woman's subsequent laughter. Even Kaydel was unsuccessfuly trying to keep from giggling.

Romantic?

Kriff, these kids (and in that moment, they seemed like children to Rose) had turned her and Hux into some bizarre fairytale romance? He had mentioned fleet gossip, but this was insane.

Rose was about to disabuse Lusica of these silly ideas when she noticed the stars in her eyes and hopefulness on the young woman's face. Were all the younger First Order officers and soldiers this naive and sheltered? Perhaps Doph wasn't a fluke as she had thought. With a quelling look at her two friends, Rose pursued the conversation. 

"Well, that has nothing to do with whether he will push for military action."

"Everyone knows he would do anything for you, ma'am. And I think it's safe to assume you don't want more war." Again, Rose was taken aback by the young woman's conviction. 

"I think you're giving me way more credit than I deserve, Lusica."

"Councilor Sindian doesn't think so. She blames you for the General's new outlook."

She couldn't suppress the satisfaction that she felt upon hearing Sindian's view of Rose's influence on Hux. She never claimed she couldn't be petty, after all. 

"You don't like working for the ice queen, do ya," Peli commented. 

"She's viewed as a stranger, ma'am," Lusica confided. "The Councilor may have been working for the First Order, but she didn't grow up out here with us. She's not really trusted."

"I'm a stranger too," Rose couldn't help but point out.

"It's different," Lusica insisted. "We know your history. You were just an ordinary kid that got pulled into the war. We don't agree with the side you chose, but we understand it. You fought to protect what you loved instead of hiding behind politics and money. Soldiers respect other soldiers."

Her last statement was decisive. Rose couldn't help but notice that Kaydel nodded in agreement. 

"I was really just a mechanic," Rose corrected her.

"A mechanic who infiltrated the Supreme Leader's flagship. Everyone knows about that. And you defied the General, and he fell in love," she added dreamily.

Fuck the Force! They had twisted a harrowing almost-execution into sentimental nonsense and decided Hux was some romantic leading man. Rose knew better. Much better. Still, she hesitated to disabuse the young woman of her fantasy.

"You want to stay a soldier, then?"

"No, ma'am. I want to raise a family. Like you. Once we're safe."

"Enough with the ma'am stuff. Call me Rose."

"Oh, I couldn't."

Rose's tone was thoughtful when she assured the young woman, "actually, I think you can."

For the next couple of hours, the women chatted and entertained Gaia. In particular, Kaydel and Lusica seemed to get along, and Rose overheard her friend question Lusica about Dopheld several times. Peli prepared an afternoon meal, and even Lusica's fiancée, Peera, stopped by for a few minutes after she was commed. She was a gunnery chief and, though more reserved than Lusica, was still friendly and polite. 

Rose pondered everything she had learned. She remembered stargazing through the observatory dome in their living pod on Hays Minor as a child and being awed by the idea that billions of beings around the galaxy were looking up at the stars just like her.

She experienced a similar shift in perception as she spoke with Lusica and Peera.

~~

She thought more about it later as she and Hux finally found some time to talk in the private office. He relayed details of the skirmish and retreat from the day before. 

"It will take us several weeks to reach our destination," he explained. 

"Why so long? The Archer managed that first trip much quicker."

"Our initial rendezvous point with the fleet was not that far from the Outer Rim. I am taking us much deeper into the Unknown Regions this time. Close to the Chiss border, actually. Hyperlanes are much more unstable, and we will need to stop periodically for readings and to avoid border violations."

Rose, admittedly, knew little about the Unknown Regions. When she was little, she loved the tales of space explorers and their adventures here. One of her and Paige's favorite games had been playacting as explorers.

"The Chiss? I've heard of them, but no one knows very much. Are they hostile?"

"Only if you attack first or don't respect their borders. I am hopeful we can meet with them and find common goals."

She planned to ask him more about those 'common goals' later, but her first concern was her daughter. 

"That's still a long time in hyperspace – especially for Gaia who hasn't been exposed to it before," Rose pointed out. "Should we be worried about Bloodburn?"

"It's unlikely, but I agree that we should be cautious. Out of necessity, the Order was able to develop inoculations to prevent Bloodburn. We can take Gaia to medbay and have them administered."

They had a treatment to prevent Bloodburn? The fatal condition was not well understood, afflicting children who spent significant time in hyperspace. The rest of the galaxy would benefit immensely from an inoculation, she knew. She also knew how much Gaia hated injections.

"Ooooh-kay. That will be fun." Hux looked perplexed by her sarcasm for a moment before returning to their original topic. Rose allowed him his ignorance for now - he would get the whole experience when they went to medbay.

"I will be busy testing and revising the Empion mine design while we are en route." Rose heard the apology in his tone and wondered whether it was due to the amount of time he would be working or that he was working on what, clearly, was a weapon.

"That's what you were talking about to Opan on Castilon. What exactly is it?"

"Advanced hyperspace mines."

Rose almost laughed in disbelief. Scientists and engineers had tried to design miniaturized Interdictor technology for decades with few successes. "Hyperspace mining isn't feasible or reliable."

"I disagree," he countered confidently. 

"They can't create a stable interdiction field large enough to pull capital ships out of hyperspace. No one's been able to effectively use them as weapons."

"False. During the High Republic era, an astrophysicist designed effective hyperspace mines for the Nihil. They used them to cordon off their territory in the Outer Rim."

Rose remembered that Hux had studied that era extensively. 

"The Nihil?"

"Pirates," came his derisive response. "They were responsible for crashing the Starlight Beacon on Eiram. Even though they were ultimately defeated, the mines - stormseeds, they called them - worked quite effectively."

She had always thought his preoccupation with Starlight and the High Republic was just because of the romance of the era. Rose should have known better. Hux always had about five reasons for everything he did.

And at least one would probably make her mad.

"You found the designs for these…stormseeds?"

"No, that technology was deliberately lost. But it inspired me to create my own."

"How do they work?" Rose's question was filled with dread. All of that brilliance, and it was used to create weapons.

"An array of sensors that detect the ship, a mass shadow gravity well projector that I am still optimizing, an electromagnetic charge to disable the ship, a sustained ion projector to hold the ship, and a hyperwave transmitter to alert to detonations."

Rose scoffed at his list of capabilities. "In one mine? Isn't that overkill? Why not just use an Interdictor?"

"Too expensive to build and too difficult to defend. They must be strategically placed and, even so, can only defend a small percentage of hyperlanes. Empion mines can be placed to cover larger areas."

Rose grew increasingly alarmed as she considered the implications of his invention. "What you're talking about - those aren't just defensive weapons. You could seed hyperlanes everywhere and bring the galaxy to a standstill."

"Whoever controls hyperspace, controls the galaxy," he confirmed succinctly. 

And he was right. The galaxy relied on hyperspace travel for almost everything - trade, labor, aid, defense, and more. There was a reason that blockades were the first tactic of choice in system disputes. 

Starkiller had been a huge blaster pointing at the rest of the galaxy. That had been bad enough. Hux’s mines would be like having a giant on/off switch.

Old fears came roaring back to crowd Rose's mind. Was Hux just looking for another way to get power and control the galaxy? It would be a temptation for any being, not just him.

"You can't do that." Rose argued breathlessly. "You can't give that technology to the First Order."

"If it means preventing another war and keeping you and Gaia safe, I assure you I can. The First Order can establish a defensible territory and prevent Coalition attacks."

"But there are people, like Sindian, who will use them as weapons. To make war, not prevent it."

"No. Remember, mhaira, everything has a weakness." At her confusion, he continued, "the hyperwave transmitter can also receive commands. I've built in a kill switch. Anyone with the right encryption code can disable or destroy the mines remotely."

Rose was skeptical at this information. "Who will have the code?"

"You."

Now, she was horrified. "I don't want it!"

"Which is why you should have it," he stubbornly reasoned.

Why did the kriffing galaxy keep putting her in these situations? She was nobody! She certainly wasn't qualified to have this kind of responsibility. The Force must have lost its mind! Hux certainly had.

"You really believe the Remnant will only use the mines to defend its borders?"

"I believe the majority want that, and the others can be convinced, yes." His assurance reminded her of another topic.

"What did Parnadee think?"

"I'm not certain," he admitted. "But I believe she would have aligned with the strongest faction. With my support, that would be the Isolationists."

So a potential ally, not an antagonist, had been killed. Rose was immediately concerned.

"Are you safe?"

"Quite. But I want you and Gaia away from all of this as soon as possible."

Kriff! He was still committed to sending them away. And it was clear that he wouldn't leave until he was certain the Remnant was safe, and war would be avoided.

Rose had sometimes wondered whether she would have helped Paige blow up those ore diggers on Hays Minor if she had known the direction her life would take as a result. Rose supposed, now, she knew the answer. 

Because she threw another bomb.

"No."

"No?" 

Poor Hux - he liked hearing 'no' about as much as his daughter.

"We aren't leaving you."

"You despise the First Order."

He was right to be incredulous. She did. She had. "It isn't what I thought. I'm not saying it's good! But the people aren't all…evil."

He let out a bark of laughter at her grumpy admission. "What did you anticipate finding here? Palpatine clones?"

"Don't joke about that. And, no…I don't know…maybe? I didn't really think about the individuals, I guess."

"Propaganda fundamentals – prevent your side from seeing the enemy as people like them. Compassion ends wars. It doesn't win them. If it's any consolation, you are just as much a surprise to them."

"I'm beginning to understand that," she acknowledged, thinking of her conversation with Lusica.

"Regardless, you can't stay. It is not safe, mhaira."

"If it's safe for you, it is for us. Anyway, there's nothing we can do about it for the next couple of weeks, right?"

"Indeed," he agreed with a frown. "But you will not go anywhere without someone I trust or an approved security escort. Agreed?"

"Sure."

Rose just hoped she could use those weeks to convince him that they should stay together. 

She continued to reassess her view of the people as they walked to the medbay later. Gaia held her father's hand as they walked through the corridors. Her daughter greeted and waved at every officer and trooper they passed. A few brave souls even smiled briefly back despite Hux's disapproving frown.

Arriving at the medbay, Hux addressed one of the doctors. "Our daughter needs the Bloodburn inoculation."

"Certainly, General," the doctor answered as he led them over to a partitioned bed. "We need to draw a blood panel first to ensure she has no conditions that would make the treatment contraindicated."

The doctor left but returned quickly with a needle and several tubes. Rose was not looking forward to the next few minutes. "Oh no." 

"No! No shot!" Gaia's shout echoed through the medbay. "No. It's bad! No!"

Rose expected Hux to be shocked or even upset at his daughter's reaction. While she was stubborn, she rarely made a scene or yelled. Instead, though, he simply looked at her calmly and asked, "would it make you feel better if I did it too, ta'ima?"

Gaia watched suspiciously as the doctor drew a vial of blood from her father. Afterwards, Hux coaxed her into his lap as he sat on the bed, quietly murmuring encouragement and jokes if Gaia's giggles were any indication. Rose watched in shock as her daughter calmly submitted to the doctor.

How could he have ever thought he would be like his father?

"You're being very brave, ta'ima," he praised her as the doctor finished the procedure. 

"Like you, papa."

"Like your mami," he corrected.

After a few moments, the doctor returned with a datapad and bandage.

"Everything looks good. We can deliver the inoculation via a dermal patch since Miss Gaia is averse to needles. Just leave it on for twenty four hours," he instructed. 

"Thank you, Doctor."

"The General, on the other hand, has some deficiencies." Turning to Hux, he continued, "records indicate, sir, that you have not had a medical examination since returning to the fleet."

"No need."

"But there is, sir. I presume the deficiencies are the result of your condition. I'm not certain how long it's been since your last treatment, but you are in need of one. I'll be right back."

As the doctor walked away, Rose looked to Hux in concern. "What condition? What's wrong?"

"It's nothing." Rose recognized the dismissive tone - he used it when he wanted to avoid issues.

"It's clearly not."

A sigh. "Only some food allergies."

"To what?"

The doctor returned then, though he must have overheard Rose's question, since he answered before Hux, "just about everything."

Aghast, she turned back to Hux. "How long have you had it?"

After a long-suffering sigh, he answered reluctantly, "I don't recall."

"Records indicate you were officially diagnosed at nine, sir," the doctor added, seemingly oblivious to Hux's glare as he handed him some sort of drink and followed up with an injection. 

"Is it a genetic condition?" Rose asked, thinking of her daughter.

"Yes. But easily treated with diet and medication. Cases range from mild to severe, and mild cases in children are often overlooked as pickiness."

Rose could only imagine a young Hux suffering for years. Probably punished for it as well. It explained his lean frame and disinterest in food – why would you want something that hurt you?

How awful, Rose thought. To have something that should nourish you cause you pain instead. But wasn't that a theme of Hux's childhood? Food, touch, relationships - all things that should bring comfort – but were turned against him somehow. No wonder his first instinct was to create weapons. 

It was all he knew.

It also fueled her resentment of the Coalition even more. She was certain that he hadn't been treated in prison, and it explained his eating habits since his rescue. 

With that, a suspicion bloomed in Rose's mind as she processed what the doctor said about pickiness. "Gaia, does your tummy ever hurt after you eat?"

"Uh huh." Gaia's affirmation made Rose think that perhaps there was a reason her daughter preferred nerf nuggets and noodles.

"We have her blood work," the doctor stated. "I'll run the necessary tests. If positive, we can determine the specific foods she should avoid and calculate the right dosages. However, the fact that she currently has no deficiencies would indicate a mild case if your daughter did indeed inherit it."

"Thank you. Please send us the results as soon as you can," Rose requested.

"General, we should also examine your injuries. There may be treatments that would, at least, alleviate the pain," the doctor added with a gesture toward Hux's leg.

"That's not necessary, Major," Hux responded as he lifted Gaia and walked to the exit. 

As they left the medbay, Rose heard her daughter loudly whisper, "so when do I get my cat, papa?"

~~

That evening, Gaia insisted that her father participate in her bedtime routine. 

"I want papa to do my braid," the little girl declared.

"He doesn't know how, Gaia."

Once again, she was faced with almost identical looks of disapproval. Thank the Force, there were only two Huxes. Like the Sith, she thought – the galaxy couldn't handle any more than two of them at a time. 

"Really. How difficult can it be?" scoffed the senior Hux.

Rose just shrugged and kissed her daughter goodnight before leaving. "Have at it," she said with a laugh.

Quite some time later, Hux joined her in the bedroom. She was about to ask him how it went when she noticed him grimacing, limping around the room as he changed for sleep.

She knew what it meant - that he let her see him like this. 

Only her.

"Come here."

"Why?" The man was always so suspicious.

"Just come here, dummy," she ordered, "and lie down."

He complied, though he made sure she heard his disgruntled sigh. Once he did, Rose moved to kneel next to him on the bed and reached out to place her hands on his injured thigh. 

Several muscles had atrophied from the injury and lack of treatment – it was clear in the shape of his thigh. And the remaining ones were stiff from overcompensating. He tensed briefly, but relaxed and closed his eyes, as she began to gently massage the muscles. His next sigh was one of relief.

"You bribed your daughter with a cat."

"It worked," came the smug response. Rose decided to let him have his little victory - he'd learn soon enough. That, or there would be a whole lot of cats on the Dominion. 

They both stayed silent as she continued to rub the sore muscles in his leg. Finally, she asked, "why won't you let them treat you?"

"It's a reminder."

"Of what?"

Hux remained obstinately silent as she continued the massage, broadening her reach to his other leg and arms. Rose wanted to show him that touch and food and love did not have to hurt. Hux, she decided, desperately needed to be cared for, even if he didn't know it.

Even if he resisted it. 

Just as she did when they were intimate, Rose paid careful attention to his reactions to different touches and pressure. She noticed a particular reaction through his sleep pants, in fact. But she wasn't quite done talking, so she moved her hands to his temples and gently rubbed the tension away.

"Why didn't you tell me?"

He didn't need any clarification.  "A First Order General who can't even eat a slice of pta fruit? Pathetic and weak," he scoffed.

"That's your father talking."

At that, he opened his eyes and looked at her. Leaning over him as she was, they were only a few inches apart. 

"I told you, Rose, appearances matter here. You can't reveal vulnerabilities in our culture."

"Then change the culture," she countered as she closed the distance and kissed him.

It was time for Hux and the First Order to learn how to create, to nurture, rather than to destroy.

Chapter Text

Hux reviewed reports in his office, as he waited for Captain Yarev to join him. Typically, he would not have conducted a personnel meeting in their quarters because it exposed Rose and Gaia unnecessarily. However, Yarev had proven his trustworthiness several times over.

And, frankly, he wasn't sure that it mattered. After only a couple of days in hyperspace, Rose had complained of boredom and insisted that she be allowed some useful duties aboard the Dominion. When she could not be deterred (their daughter clearly received her stubbornness from Rose), he suggested that she work on the Empion mine designs with him. She declined, explaining  that she needed to do something rather than just working on a datapad. 

He finally agreed to let her go to the maintenance bay for several hours each day, so long as she was accompanied by a vetted Security officer. The Motto woman sometimes went with her, but she usually stayed with Gaia. He often found a reason to wander down when she was working, finding her in coveralls and grease and chatting with the other mechanics. One time, he even dragged her into a nearby shuttle for an inspection, though it wasn’t the ship that actually received one.

In their quarters, Hux often found the women in the sitting area with Gaia. Several times, he was nonplussed to find other First Order junior officers chatting with them over caf.

When he did work in the private office, Gaia typically found her way in. She would sit nearby and play – Hux discovered she enjoyed puzzles as much as he had as a child – or would climb into his lap to see what he was working on.

"What's that?"

"A gravity well generator."

"What's it do?"

"It creates…it's something that pulls you close. You can't help but want to be near it."

"Like mami?"

"Exactly."

Hux wasn't quite sure how Rose was accomplishing it, but the atmosphere on the Dominion was subtly changing. Not only did they often have "guests," but, to Hux’s horror, several officers had even smiled at him in briefings.

He didn't truly know what to make of it. No one was reported as derelict in their duties, and tasks were still completed efficiently. But there was less… fear, he supposed. Hux understood it in that he, too, was relieved to be rid of the fear of being Force slammed against the bulkhead.

But there had always been tension among the crew and personnel. Brendol Hux's views on natural selection pervaded First Order training and encouraged competitiveness among the officers. Prior commanders, including Hux, had used it to motivate and to ensure that troops remained loyal to the Order.

Now, Hux observed more instances of cooperation and teamwork than competition. Productivity and efficiency, it seemed, were not adversely affected either. Brendol would be appalled, he thought with satisfaction. 

The door chimed, and, at Hux’s, "enter," the captain walked in. As he took the seat Hux gestured to, he commented, "you're looking well, General."

"You say that as if you didn't just see me at dinner last night." The good captain was, in fact, a fixture at dinner most nights – usually seated next to the Motto woman. The dinners that Rose had persuaded him to accept into his routine.

It seemed that Rose had begun collaborating with the medbay doctor, Lieutenant Mitaka, and Ms. Motto on dietary options that Hux and Gaia, who did, in fact, have some allergies, could tolerate.

The result was a dinner each night, usually prepared by Motto or, surprisingly, Mr. Mitaka, comprised of foods that Hux was slowly learning to appreciate. He was not certain, however, that he enjoyed the larger crowd. In addition to Rose and Gaia, Motto and Captain Yarev as well as Mitaka and Connix were present. Even other officers were occasionally invited as the weeks had passed.

"And it was a lovely meal last night, sir. I believe Ms. Motto may be trying to fatten me up with her cooking," he joked.

Recalling the woman's one-time comment about women and skinny men, and noting Yarev was on the lean side like Hux, he concurred. "You may be right about that, Captain." 

Picking up his datapad, Hux continued. "Captain, I would like you to take over command of the Dominion."

Judging by the shocked look on his face, Yarev had not been expecting Hux's offer. "Sir, I am honored, but I don't think the Council will approve."

"As the ranking commander, I have authority to make field assignments. And I will ensure that the Supreme Council supports my decision."

"Sir-"

"I need someone I can trust commanding the Dominion, Captain," he interrupted Yarev's protest. "If I were absent or incapacitated, I need to know my family will be protected."

Hux knew that Yarev understood exactly what he was saying. If Hux were injured or killed, someone needed to ensure Rose and Gaia were safe.

"How is the investigation into General Parnadee's death proceeding, sir?" the captain inquired, clearly aware of the source of Hux's present concern.

"Poison. Though we haven't released that information beyond the Council. And we still don't know who administered it. Surveillance shows no one entering her quarters prior to the incident."

Yarev regarded Hux thoughtfully for several moments before speaking again. "Major Opan is familiar with a number of poisons and methods, I have heard. Perhaps he could be of assistance."

Indeed, Hux thought. When Opan served on Hux’s staff, he preferred poison and had several tricks for delivering it, even using an empty code cylinder to carry it in the past. The captain apparently had the same suspicions as Hux.

"You aren't concerned that I was involved, Captain? I hear that several commanders suspect me."

"No, sir," Yarev countered with a wry look. "And it's only the Expansionists voicing that opinion. Personally, I don't believe you would use the same tactics as you might have five years ago." The captain, apparently, thought Hux had changed. Perhaps he was right - somewhat. "Besides, sir, I don't think you would risk angering your wife like that."

"She's more bloodthirsty than you might think, Captain," Hux corrected. "But as to Opan, we will assuredly be speaking to him about his expertise in that area. until we find the culprit, however, I worry for Rose and my daughter, and I would feel better knowing you were in command."

"Certainly, sir. In that case, I accept and thank you."

Relieved, Hux turned to their upcoming arrival. "We are approaching the fleet rendezvous – we have a few more hours in hyperspace. Take the time to ensure the ship and crew are at battle readiness."

"Weapons ready?"

"Primed. But not armed."

"The rendezvous coordinates, sir, are very close to Colonial Station Chaf. Almost sitting on the Ascendancy's border. Do you anticipate that the Defense Force will be waiting for us?"

"If not, I am certain either the Defense Force or the Chaf will have a Man-of-War there very quickly. In fact, I am counting on it."

"Sir?"

"We need an alliance with the Chiss, Captain. If the Ascendancy allies with us, the Coalition will not dare to continue incursions into the Unknown Regions."

Hux hadn't spoken of his plan with anyone yet, but Yarev needed to understand how delicate the situation would be once they arrived. The Supreme Council accepted the need to engage the Chiss, but that was far different than a formal alliance or treaty.

"Sir, the Ascendancy and First Order maintained a non-aggression understanding, but they have never been open to formal relations with us – with anyone in the Chaos, actually."

Hux understood Yarev's skepticism. The Chiss were notoriously insular and quite arrogant about that fact.

"I believe the time is ripe, Captain. If we approach the Ascendancy correctly, they will agree."

"As you say, sir."

Both Hux and Yarev were proven correct, in fact. Several hours after the Dominion came out of hyperspace to find the rest of the fleet settling in, the Chiss arrived.

Hux, Yarev, and several commanders were reviewing updates from the other ships when the lieutenant at the tracking station interrupted them. "Sirs, we have ships coming out of hyperspace. It looks like a Chiss Man-of-War and two heavy frigates."

"Weapons, sir?"

"Negative. Alert all commands to stand down. Maintain battle stations but do not engage," Hux ordered before addressing the tracking officer. "What are their positions, lieutenant?"

"Bearing one six nine mark four one three at fourteen hundred kilometers, sir. Wait, the Man-of-War and one of the frigates are holding position. The other frigate is still approaching, sir."

Hux looked out the viewport at the Chiss ships, noting their markings and designs. "Perfect. Hail the frigate."

"Ascendancy Expansionary Defense Ship, this is First Order General Armitage Hux. We are holding our position. Respond." Hux then repeated his message in Sy Bisti, a common trade language in the Unknown Regions. 

A voice sounded over the bridge comms in stilted, accented Basic. "General Hux, you are dangerously close to violating the sovereign boundaries of the Ascendancy. What are your intentions?"

"We would simply like to meet with you. We invite representatives from the Expansionary Defense Force and Military Defense as well as the Chaf to come aboard tomorrow. I believe the Ascendancy and First Order have several interests in common that we should discuss."

Hux had no doubt that they would agree. The Chiss would never pass up the opportunity to view First Order technology up close. And none of the groups he named would allow the others to do so without them. Chiss families and forces were always looking for competitive advantage over each other. 

"We accept your invitation. Representatives will arrive to meet with you tomorrow," the voice responded before closing the comms.

"Contact the other Councilors and inform them that their presence is needed for 0600 hours." Hux ordered the officer at the comm station. "And order the fleet to reposition further from the Chiss border but within minimum covering range. The Bellicose and Dominion will retain position here."

"Sir, how did you recognize the ship affiliations?" Yarev asked.

"The configurations and positions. It bodes well and confirms the information I have been reading in our own scout reports."

~~

Hux reflected on those reports as the Supreme Council met the following day. 

The Councilors, but for Carise, were intrigued by the potential of an alliance, though they were also rightly skeptical. The Ascendancy had maintained an aloof and distant relationship with other species and nations. They were, in fact, even more xenophobic than the Empire. Ultimately, though, the majority of the Council agreed that the opportunity was worth pursuing. 

While waiting for Captain Yarev to escort the Chiss representatives from the hangar bay to the meeting room, Hux took the opportunity to stretch his muscles. His injured leg tended to stiffen up after sitting for long periods. As he paced, he noted that it didn't ache as badly as usual and attributed it to Rose's nightly massages.

She insisted on the routine every night now, and Hux was reluctant to admit how much he had begun to enjoy it. Of course, it often led to other activities that he enjoyed as well. But on nights that it didn't, he often fell asleep with Rose either stroking his hair or rubbing his back.

Between that, the meals, and her overall attentiveness, Hux felt cared for. For the first time in his memory. And it frightened him. 

Because he needed it.

He thought nothing could compare to receiving Rose's love. He hadn't anticipated what her attention would do. He was reminded of the firefox Rose tamed on D'Qar. 

She was a ruthless campaigner in her attempts at convincing him that they should, and could, stay together. If Rose had ever been truly military-minded, she would have been a significant opponent. The domesticity she had introduced in his life was steadily wearing him down.

If he let her, she would smooth away his hard edges. 

Those edges and angles, though, had kept him alive. He needed them to survive. To keep them all alive.

He was pulled away from his thoughts when Captain Yarev arrived with Lieutenant Mitaka, who spoke Sy Bisti, and three Chiss individuals - one woman and two men. Hux recognized the Chaf representative, Chaf'orm'ath, from past dealings with the family. Introductions were made in both Basic and Sy Bisti, since it appeared the Stybla representative did not speak the former. 

Once everyone was seated, Hux broached the topic of a treaty. As anticipated, the Chiss quickly rejected the idea. 

"You lived in the Chaos long enough, General Hux, to know that the Ascendancy is not interested in a treaty or alliance. We are only here to discuss the removal of your fleet from our border," expounded Syndic Chaf'orm'ath.

"The Empire and the Ascendancy were aligned once before, Syndic Forma." Hux used the Syndic's core name, as was expected in most interactions with the Chiss.

Though some Chiss still viewed Thrawn as a traitor, the three Families present - the Mith, Chaf, and Stybla - were known to respect the Grand Admiral's actions and intelligence. Consequently, they also had a more favorable view of the Empire that Thrawn had once served.

"The Empire was defeated. As were you," countered Admiral Tharsh. "How would the Chiss benefit in this situation?"

The Defense Fleet Admiral provided the opening Hux had been waiting for. And expecting. Despite protestations, he knew the Chiss were at least interested in diplomatic relations based on the emissaries they chose to send to the Dominion.

The Chiss, though, never made decisions without careful analysis and logic. Unless, of course, they were attacked. When that happened, their driving objective was the destruction of their enemy. 

Whatever the cost.

"The Chaos is not kind to nations without allies, Admiral. There are rumors of Vagaari and Grysk activity once again." Unsubstantiated rumors, but it didn't suit Hux's purpose to qualify his claim.

"The Ascendancy defeated them both once before."

"With Imperial resources," Hux pointed out. Not many individuals knew of the Empire's assistance, funneled through Grand Admiral Thrawn, but Hux had done his research. 

"Regardless, it was our fleet that ultimately triumphed."

It was time for Hux to play his hunch. Reading between the lines of the scouting reports and Intelligence traffic from other nations in the Chaos, Hux suspected the Chiss were in a vulnerable state. Still mighty, certainly, but there were cracks.

"When the Ascendancy was at its full might, yes," Hux countered. "But those battles and your own civil war has weakened you."

The only beings who looked surprised in the room were the other Councilors. The Chiss remained as stoic as ever – their blue faces and red eyes revealing nothing.

"That's ridiculous," scoffed Forma. "You can't possibly know what has or has not occurred within our borders."

"I don't need to see the storm clouds to know it rained, Syndic. I only need to see the wet ground."

The seemingly insignificant report details, Hux knew, typically revealed the most accurate picture. "Tighter borders, fewer patrols, and less trade in recent years. Increased use of Guild Navigators in addition to rumors of instability. It's a great deal of noise for a nation that prefers to be quiet."

"The Chiss are strong," added Tharsh without denying or substantiating Hux's claim. The omission told Hux everything he needed.

"Without question," Hux agreed. The Chiss demanded respect, but he also needed to make his point. "But your enemies know you are diminished – down to four Ruling Families. You don't believe they will try to take advantage? Even the Coalition is making incursions into the region."

"Looking for you."

Hux had no interest in affirming or denying that argument. Instead, he needed to portray the Coalition as just as much a danger to the Chiss as well as the First Order. 

"I know you still have observers in Lesser Space," Hux commented. The Chiss had spies everywhere. "The Ascendancy surely knows the chaotic state of the Coalition. Each system going its own direction, while the Coalition builds a stronger military. It will eventually spill over into the Chaos. And they may well choose to ally with your enemies."

"We will not align with a nation that engages in preemptive strikes."

And there it was.

This, Hux knew, was the sticking point. The Ascendancy would have never approved of the way the Order employed Starkiller Base. The Tarkin Doctrine's argument for decisive and preemptive action was anathema to Chiss culture.

And this was where it could all fall apart. 

Hux looked calmly at the Chiss representatives and Supreme Council members as he stated, "the First Order will agree to abide by the Ascendancy's Non Aggression Doctrine as part of a treaty."

"General Hux!" Carise protested. 

A quick assessment told him that the other Council members were taken aback but did not explicitly contradict him. Even Admiral Nord, Carise's Expansionist ally, showed his disapproval with only a frown. Hux doubted they were overly surprised – everyone in the Unknown Regions knew the Chiss stance on first strikes.

And perhaps, they believed it was only a temporary, symbolic gesture to make. 

Ignoring Carise's dissent, Hux continued, "any violation would nullify our accord."

"You will not attack the Coalition?" Forma sounded skeptical, but not disbelieving. 

"We will only defend ourselves," Hux assured. "And you. Against any aggressors – whether they be from Lesser Space or within the Chaos."

"The benefits for the Chiss are still unclear," voiced the Stybla representative, Aristocra Stybla'tro'sumf, speaking for the first time. Apparently, she did speak Basic, though it was halting and stilted.

There was one answer that would interest Aristrocra Latros.

"Technology. The First Order will share military and civil technology with you."

"Such as?"

"Hyperspace mines, for one."

"We are already familiar with gravity well weapons," Latros answered. 

"Not this advanced. And from my understanding, the Universal Analysis Group was never able to fully reverse engineer the technology. Certainly, we have never seen the Ascendancy use such weapons."

"You intend to mine the hyperlanes?" Admiral Tharsh interjected. "The Ascendancy cannot allow that."

"The Chiss have the Redoubt," Hux pointed out, mentioning the Ascendancy's heavily fortified shelter of last resort. "The First Order simply desires a means to ensure our own safety as well. However," he added, "an alliance would likely make the mines unnecessary."

That was actually still debatable. But it could, he decided, be discussed in more detail if there was a formal treaty.

"How so?"

"The Coalition will not attack us if the Chiss are our ally. They will not want us both as enemies."

The Coalition would not take on both militaries, particularly in the unfamiliar Unknown Regions. And especially once Hux halted their recently precise and suspicious tracking ability.

"We have a great deal of other technology from Lesser Space as well – hyperspace tracking, dark matter synthesis, stealth systems, navigational programs. The First Order has made great technological strides since the Empire."

"Don't forget about all the Coalition technology your little wife knows," Carise snidely added.

Though tempted, he couldn't reprimand her in front of the Chiss. Hux assumed that she was trying to discourage their potential allies by pointing out that someone affiliated with the Coalition was on board. Or she was just sniping at Hux for working with the Chiss. Maybe both.

"You have a family, General?" Latros asked curiously, likely surprised that Chiss spies hadn't known that information already. 

"That-"

"Oh, the General has a sweet wife and daughter onboard," she interrupted vindictively. "You should meet them."

"I would like to," Latros responded thoughtfully as she regarded Hux.

"And the First Order will just be wandering nomads in the Chaos?" Forma interjected, dismissing Carise's ploy. 

"Certainly not. We already have shipyards and bases on several planets that can be colonized. We cannot, though, risk leading the Coalition to them. There are also numerous uninhabited systems as well, and, as an ally, we would certainly take your views into consideration when determining which ones to choose." Hux concluded, relieved to avoid further discussion of his family. "Enemies would have to be extremely reckless or desperate to attack us together."

"The Chiss are mightier in territory and population."

"Agreed," Hux respectfully concurred. "And we have the greater technology. We can also bolster your military as you rebuild back to full strength. An alliance would be formidable."

"Possibly," Syndic Forma hedged. "We will take your proposal back to the Syndicure and Defense Council for consideration."

The Ascendancy's Syndicure, its primary governing body, was known to be extremely political and very slow. The First Order needed this alliance quickly, but he knew pressing harder at the moment would only derail any possibility.  "Of course."

"We will depart, then-"

"I would like to meet your family, General Hux," Aristocra Latros interrupted with a discerning look. "And, perhaps, have an opportunity to speak more informally. Allies should know one another, after all."

Carise smiled smugly at Aristocra Latros' suggestion. She clearly believed that the aloof, arrogant Chiss would form unpleasant opinions of Rose and Gaia, just as she had. Hux was not concerned with that possibility. He simply didn't want his family unnecessarily exposed. It could also make it more difficult if he sent them away eventually. 

Hux was momentarily taken aback by his own thoughts – when, exactly, in the last few weeks had it turned into if?

~~

He was still bemused hours later as he observed the goings on in their quarters.

Earlier, Hux had introduced Forma, Latros, and Tharsh to Rose, who had immediately invited them to share a meal. The Chiss had agreed - no doubt observing and analyzing anything that could benefit them in future interactions. Hux had hoped that it would be just the five adults for a calm and quiet dinner. Rose, however, insisted that their usual companions join as well. Luckily, the Leader's quarters included a large dining area suitable for entertainment. 

The meal was a dignified affair, for the most part, with Rose and the Connix woman asking polite questions and slowly drawing the Chiss guests out. 

The current situation, however, was not.

Syndic Forma and Ms. Motto were having an intense conversation – the Motto woman knew the trade language – while Yarev sat nearby looking pleased. Gaia seemed to be showing her toys to Aristoca Latros who encouraged his daughter with questions about each one. Rose, Lieutenant Mitaka, and Connix were discussing various planets and habitats with Admiral Tharsh. 

Hux wondered if he was actually back in his cell at Sunspot Prison and hallucinating. Exactly, how had this occurred?

Oh.

Rose.

At that realization, he heard her voice nearby. "My world was an ice planet as well. It can be a difficult life, but there's a real beauty to its starkness."

"Indeed," commented Tharsh. "Csilla is the same. There are many beautiful, though dangerous, planets in the Chaos."

"My sister always wanted to travel the galaxy. To see all the systems and cultures."

"And you?"

"I just wanted to be with my sister." Hux heard the lingering ache in Rose's voice - the grief of someone who would always wonder about what might have been. 

"She is not with you?"

"She died in the war - protecting the Resistance."

Hux had no idea how the Chiss would view their relationship, knowing that he and Rose had been on opposite sides of the war. In their culture, loyalty to family came before anything else. Adoptions, even of adults, into other families, were common, though, so they understood the concept of changing loyalties to a new family. 

As he had done, Hux admitted to himself. 

"Auntie Pae-Pae was a soldier!" his daughter added proudly.

"Were you a warrior as well then?" 

"Just a mechanic really," Rose answered the Admiral with a self-deprecating smile.

Before Hux could correct her assertion that she was just anything, Ms. Motto stepped in. 

"Rosie, stop being humble," she admonished before turning to the Chiss. "My girl headed the Engineering Corp for the entire Resistance. Even developed new cloaking tech. Smart as a whip."

There were times, Hux thought, he could like that woman. Not often. 

But sometimes. 

"Really?" Hux was unsurprised by Latros' interest - the Stybla family essentially controlled the Universal Analysis Group for the Chiss. Their sole job was to take apart and understand alien technology. Latros' presence in the delegation, in fact, had been what convinced Hux that the Chiss were open to an alliance before talks had even begun. 

The mention of Rose's Baffler would only add more enticement. 

"Enough," he declared. Hux did not want to reveal too much. "Aristocra, you will not be taking any technology back to the UAG until we have a treaty."

The Chiss scientist merely nodded and sat back.

"Do you have cats?" Gaia suddenly asked Admiral Tharsh as she walked over to her father and climbed into his lap. Hux noticed that her eyelids were drooping after the excitement of visitors. 

"Cats?" This was from Syndic Forma. Hux noted that all the adults were now watching Gaia with various looks of indulgence. The Chiss may be a formal, strict society, but they doted on their children. 

"Small felines kept as pets," Connix explained. 

"Ah, yes. A number of our worlds have whisper cubs," answered Forma. "They make excellent pets."

"Papa promised me a cat," Gaia said as she placed her head against her father's chest.

Hux had grown accustomed to Gaia's touch over the last few weeks. Apparently, children had no sense of personal space – the little girl was always reaching for him. It had been awkward and, honestly, a little terrifying at first. But, very quickly, her weight began to feel 'settling.' He couldn't really explain it other than to say it comforted him when he held her or she clambered into his lap as she just did. Akin to how it felt to have Rose sleeping next to him.

That word - if - came to mind again. If he could let them go.

"My granddaughter likes animals as well," Latros responded.

"How old is she? Does she like puzzles? I'm good at puzzles like Papa. Can I meet her?"

The Aristocra did not seem daunted by his daughter's string of questions and merely smiled indulgently at the little girl. "Perhaps."

Conversation lasted for a bit longer, though it became more subdued once the adults noticed that Gaia had fallen asleep in her father's hold. Eventually, Admiral Tharsh declared that it was time to depart.

After thanking Rose for the hospitality, Forma turned to where Hux was seated, still holding Gaia. "General, a moment?"

Hearing the request, Rose came over and lifted her daughter away while she slept on. "I'll put her to bed." 

Once free, Hux accompanied the Chiss to the outer corridor where several Chiss warriors and First Order troops were waiting to escort them to their shuttle. Forma turned to Hux and stated, "I will relay your proposal to the Syndicure. To Hux's surprise, he added, "I have also decided to submit my personal recommendation that we proceed with an alliance."

"You are no longer skeptical?"

"I would say less…hesitant," he corrected. "It is clear how much your family means to you. Perhaps our cultures have more in common than I believed, and our values are not so different."

Once again, Hux was reminded that Chiss society revered family. Everything revolved around those relationships. He found it ironic that Carise's attempt to undermine an alliance – bringing Rose and Gaia into it – may be what convinced the Chiss to agree.

"I appreciate your support, Syndic."

"I believe you will have Admiral Tharsh's and Aristocra Latros' as well. We knew the First Order was capable of achieving your proposal, but now I believe we could trust you to do so as well. So long as you are in the leadership."

The Syndic's message was clear - any alliance must necessarily involve Hux personally.

"Your wife and daughter are open and kind, General Hux. Protect them well."

"I intend to."

"We will contact you soon," he finished as the group of Chiss began to walk away. Several steps down the corridor, the Syndic turned and ordered, "and you should get your daughter a cub."

Before Hux could reply, the Dominion's warning alarms sounded. Captain Yarev and Lieutenant Mitaka immediately joined him in the corridor. "Sir, Coalition ships have arrived," Yarev explained. 

"Perfect," Hux quietly responded before turning to the Chiss in the corridor. They were already murmuring into their comms as they received information from their own ships. "Your shuttle would likely be fired upon if you left now. However, you are welcome to come to the bridge to observe and coordinate your own ships."

Once on the bridge, Hux barked out, "report."

"Sir, it appears to be the same Coalition battle group from the previous attack. They are launching fighters."

"Weapons armed, sir. Fire?"

"Negative. But keep them primed," he ordered the weapons officer before turning to the comms station. "Open comms."

At the officer's nod, Hux spoke, "Coalition ships, this is General Hux. We have representatives from a neutral party onboard. Hold your fire."

It did not take long for the response. "If they are onboard a First Order ship, they are not neutral. Surrender or be fired upon."

"Hold your fire. I repeat, these are-"

"Coalition ships in firing range, General. Cannons hot. They are targeting."

"Incoming. Brace!"

As the blasts deflected off the Dominion's shields, several things happened at once. The Expansionary Defense Force frigate that had been in close proximity to the Dominion and the Bellicose began a yaw turn as they simultaneously charged their weapons. In addition, the Chiss Man-of-War and frigate that had been sitting back began approaching the Coalition ships' rear position. 

Chiss doctrine, Hux knew, considered an attack on a ship, any ship, carrying Chiss representatives as an attack on the sovereignty of the Ascendancy itself.

"Admiral Tharsh?" Hux inquired, noting the Chiss were speaking in native Cheunh on their own comms.

"They have attacked the Ascendancy despite your warning, and I am now receiving reports of nearby border violations by this battle group," Tharsh acknowledged. "We will respond accordingly."

"Captain Yarev, coordinate with the Admiral and the Chiss ships. We will assist them in pushing the Coalition ships back. You have command."

Hux walked over to Aristocra Latros and Syndic Forma as Yarev and Tharsh relayed orders to the crew and ships. Though technically in command of their own ships, the two ceded authority to the Admiral to coordinate the battle. And Yarev, paying attention to Hux's wording, deferred to the Chiss commander's lead.

They watched as TIE fighters and Chiss Clawcraft engaged the X-wings, working remarkably well together. Soon, the Man-of-War and Chiss frigate had flanked the Coalition cruisers who began firing on those ships as well. 

The fighting was brutal as the capital ships slugged away at each other, while the fighters swarmed. It was also relatively brief, however. The Coalition ships realized quickly that they were outmatched and unprepared – the Chiss' weapons and munitions were unfamiliar to most residents of Lesser Space. 

"They're recalling the fighters and angling for an escape vector, sir. Do we block their retreat?"

"Negative," Hux ordered. "Let them go."

As the Coalition ships jumped to hyperspace, Hux noted the proud smiles around the bridge. After their first clear victory in some time, the First  Order officers were standing a bit taller as they regarded Hux and Yarev, and even the Chiss, with looks of admiration. 

Hux had not wanted a battle with his family onboard. But this confrontation had been necessary. 

For several reasons.

"Well, General Hux," commented Syndic Forma, "it appears you may have your alliance. It will need to be approved by the Syndicure with a formal treaty, but the Coalition is now an enemy of the Ascendancy. I will be calling for an emergency meeting on my return to Csilla."

The other Chiss nodded in agreement, their expressions determined. Once attacked, the Ascendancy responded swiftly and with force.

Hux's satisfaction at seeing his plans succeed was short-lived, however. After sending the Chiss safely back to their ships and leaving Yarev to conduct the damage assessments and post-battle analysis, he made his way swiftly to their quarters to check on Rose and Gaia.

Upon arriving, Lieutenant Mitaka in tow, Hux found only Ms. Motto waiting for him. She stood quickly and rushed over, a distraught expression on her face in lieu of her usually unflappable demeanor. 

"They took her. They arrested Rosie."

Chapter Text

Starlight Beacon - one month before Exogol

"Mhaira."

"Huh?" Hux watched as Rose opened bleary eyes and looked around in confusion. He smirked as she tried to surreptitiously wipe the drool off the side of her mouth as she lifted her head from his shoulder. 

"You fell asleep," he explained. "I didn't want to wake you - you were exhausted - but I must return to the Steadfast."

It was partially true, at least. He was concerned that Rose seemed increasingly tired recently, showing up with dark circles under her eyes and a weary stride. But, in truth, he let her sleep so he could hold her. Watch her. Savor the feel of her. He knew it would have to last for a while.

Their meetings had been rushed recently – one or both of them always needed to get back to other increasingly urgent duties. He was certain Rose could feel it too – something was gathering momentum out there. Something new and threatening. 

"Sorry. I've just been really tired lately." At the reminder of their responsibilities, Rose sat up and began reaching for her clothes. 

Hux followed suit, eyeing her with concern. "Have you seen the medic?"

"No, no. It's just stress," she assured him as she pulled on her boots. "Everyone's so busy right now, and Leia isn't doing well. I'm just worried and it's getting to me."

At that, Hux took a breath and relayed his decision. "It may not be safe to meet for some time."

Rose stood sharply, looking at him with a combination of fear and suspicion. "Why?"

"I believe Ren suspects a spy. Or Pryde. My quarters have been searched recently."

"Looking for what?"

"Something they won't find." 

Hux had the annoying ability to be either extremely precise or determinedly vague when he wanted. Rose envied his facility with words. Hux said exactly what he intended to say, while she, more often than not, floundered for the right words to say what she thought. 

"But we should communicate only through the encrypted code for now," he continued.  "Dead drops if absolutely necessary or an emergency arises."

Their code – an altered variation of binary that Hux created and secured with bio-hexacryption. Rose had always loved binary – in a way that only a true boffin could.

The idea that you could take something as basic as a 'one' and a 'zero' and combine them to invent a language fascinated her.

Two elements that, together, create something entirely different and unexpected. Add something to nothing and it becomes everything. 

She and Hux were a bit like binary, Rose thought. A 'one' and 'zero' could exist on their own with separate identities. Together, though, they became something else.

"For how long?" she asked, dreading the answer.

"I'm uncertain. Perhaps Ren will find whatever Sith toy he has been looking for on our upcoming mission to Mustafar. That, or his obsession with the scavenger, may distract him." Hux finished dressing and moved to the module's life support controls to check them before departing.

"But he can read minds, right? Maybe you shouldn't go back," she blurted out her concern. Rose held her breath – neither had ever broached the idea of Hux defecting. 

She knew that, initially, his clandestine efforts had been motivated by a desire to bring down Kylo Ren. But as the weeks and months passed, he seemed less driven by hatred of Ren and loyalty to the Order. Now, he was motivated by…what? Rose was afraid to say, or hope, the answer to that. 

"He notes impressions and intentions and is too arrogant to look deeper," Hux scoffed, ignoring her suggestion. She didn't know whether to be relieved or upset that he did so. "Snoke was the same."

She almost laughed when she heard Hux criticize someone else for arrogance. But, then again, he wasn't so much arrogant as…certain. Layers and layers of certainty, Rose thought, to contain the seed of self-doubt his father planted years ago and that he didn't want anyone to see.

Rose usually found that certainty in beings had been earned. Arrogance, though, was presumed. Poe, for example, flourished his arrogance like a cape, while Hux wore his certainty like armor.

"You'll be careful?" She hated how small her voice sounded.

"I am always careful. You must be the same," he ordered as he reached into his inner coat pocket and pulled out his mono-molecular blade. "Take this. Keep it on you at all times."

He doubted Rose would ever use the blade, but he needed her to have it – for protection now and in the future. Its contents could keep her safe in a post-war chaos. He would send her the rest if his own safety became precarious. 

Hux had done everything he could to prepare for that eventuality. Lieutenant Mitaka had his instructions, Rose had been provided for (though she didn't know it), and Hux was as protected as possible. He even wore the cortosis weave Rose had once suggested, though he didn't tell her. At first, he hadn't wanted to give her the satisfaction of knowing he listened to a rebel brat. Later, he didn't want her to worry. But if Ren attacked him with a lightsaber, the cortosis should protect him and give him enough time to escape. 

"I have a blaster, Hux."

"Which is of no help in close combat," he dismissed. "And don't tell me you have that ridiculous electro-shock prod. It's a toy, not a weapon." 

"It's worked pretty well before."

"Rose."

"Alright," she finally promised as she accepted the weapon. She didn't like the idea of Hux being without his blade, though. What if he was attacked? What would she do if something happened to him? If this man stopped taking up space in the galaxy?

The thought made her feel sick and brought back all the stress-induced nausea she had been fighting for months. 

They never spoke of feelings or love or the future. Those things didn't belong in wartime. Not for them. But when the war was over, when, if, they survived, there could be love.

She would love him then, if he lived, Rose told herself. 

"Promise me you'll survive. Please."

He had never lied to Rose before. Was it a lie, he wondered, if you wished it was true? But Hux had lived with the likelihood of death too long to make that promise. From the earliest beatings, he had made a friend of Death rather than fear it. It's why he didn't allow himself to think of a future – of families or children or growing old.

Younglings born in burning houses had a certain fatalism – they assumed the fire would kill them eventually. Soldiers were the same.

It's why he was incapable of love. Love needed hope, and hope required you to believe in a future. And it was a weakness he could ill afford.

If he could love, though, he knew with absolute certainty, he would have loved Rose.

Instead of answering her, he simply pulled Rose close, praying it wasn't the last time. Maybe, he thought, he did have some hope after all. 

He was holding it.

~~

"They arrested Rosie."

Hux's mind refused to understand the words for several moments. Rather, it seemed like the hull had been breached and all the air was violently being pulled out of the room. He could hear nothing but the rushing wind.

And then, suddenly, the hole was plugged. "What did you say?"

"Some Security yahoos came and took Rosie away. I tried to comm you on the bridge, but those laserbrains said no unofficial communication was allowed during a battle."

Rose had been taken into custody while the battle raged. In other words, someone had attacked his family while he had been distracted. Purposefully. 

"Where's Gaia?" he demanded sharply, looking for signs of his daughter. 

"Gigi snoozed through it all," the Motto woman assured him. "I stayed to watch her, but Kay insisted on going with Rosie. Made a big stink 'til they agreed to let her come."

Gaia was safe, and Rose wasn't alone. Rose's friends were loyal and had been there for her when Hux couldn't - an uncomfortably familiar pattern. Though the information relieved him slightly, his anger was still growing. 

"Stay here and watch Gaia," he ordered the older woman before turning back toward the door. "Lieutenant, with me." He did not want to leave his daughter unprotected, though, so he pulled his commlink out. "Yarev, report to my quarters immediately."

As they traversed the corridors leading to the detention area, Hux’s rage continued to grow. He knew who was responsible – he just hadn't expected her to be so brazen. But this was the woman who had outed Leia Organa as Darth Vader's daughter to the entire New Republic Senate without remorse.

As they entered the brig, Hux briefly entertained the idea of sending a Collection Team to Parnassos.

"Where the fuck is my wife?" he demanded of the security officer and troopers on duty.

"And mine," Lieutenant Mitaka added in a belligerent tone that Hux had never heard from him before. The younger man even took several threatening steps towards the officers.

To their credit, the guards' body language and facial expressions revealed their discomfort and anxiety. Hux was once again grateful for his reputation, as the Security officer scurried to lead them down the corridor. 

"In the interrogation room, sirs. This way."

Upon entering the room, Hux found Rose and Connix seated together at a table. Neither, thankfully, looked the worse for the experience. He immediately pulled Rose up and close.

"Are you alright?"

"Yeah, we're fine," she calmly responded. "How's Gaia?"

"Sleeping." Assured that she was well, Hux turned to the officer. "Release her."

"I can't, sir." The younger man apologetically replied. "Only an order from the Supreme Council can do that."

"Why is she being detained?"

"Suspicion of spying for the Coalition, General Hux." The officer looked as if he would rather be anywhere else.

"On whose order?" Hux demanded, though he already knew the answer.

"Councilor Sindian's."

At the officer's confirmation, Hux released Rose and started for the door. "We'll see about that."

Before he could take two steps, though, he felt Rose grab his sleeve. "No!"

"Why not?"

"You'll kill her," she answered succinctly. And quite correctly, Hux admitted, once again thinking of Parnassos. He wanted to tear Carise apart for this.

Rose kept a firm grip on his coat as she continued, "calm down and breathe. Think. You can't attack her, or you'll be here too. It's what she wants - for you to lose your authority."

"I have to do something."

"Yes, you do," she agreed. "You have to be with Gaia. I don't want her waking up to find both of us gone. You have to be a father first. Then General and then…husband." 

It was the first time he ever heard Rose use that term in reference to him, and it felt like a punch to his stomach to hear it in the same breath that she used to tell him to go and abandon her. Unprotected. 

"Are you suggesting I leave you here?"

He was incredulous at the idea.

"Only until you can meet with the Council and sort all this out. The lieutenant here has been very respectful," she added with a nod to the Security officer. "Kaydel and I have spent the night in worse places, trust me."

"I am not just going to leave you here, Rose." Hux was shocked that she thought he could do so.

"I'm not going anywhere," her friend assured him with a threatening look at the guard. Hux had almost forgotten that the other couple was in the room.

"I'll stay too, sir," Lieutenant Mitaka interjected. "I won't leave them unprotected."

"I can't." He looked at Rose, pleading with her to understand. But she remained determined and said the only thing that could convince Hux to leave her in Mr. Mitaka's care.

"Your daughter needs you."

She was right, and he hated it. 

He couldn't kill Carise (yet). Nor could he call an emergency meeting at this hour. He had to maintain the appearance of control in order to keep his authority and command. He needed both to keep Rose and Gaia safe. The most logical step would be to meet with the Supreme Council in the morning and convince them Rose was innocent. 

But Hux didn't want to be rational – Rose had that unfortunate effect on him. 

Part of him wanted to just take her and Gaia and run. But then they would be hunted by the First Order and the Coalition, and he didn't want that life for them. His own chaotic childhood taught him that. Hux would do it, but it wasn't his first option.

Reluctantly, he agreed to do as Rose instructed. For now.

"Lieutenant, comm me immediately if there are any problems. No one is to have access. Food and drinks should be tested first."

"Understood, sir," Mitaka acknowledged with an arm around Rose's friend.

"Well, who's up for a game of Sabacc?" the young woman asked as Rose pulled him a few steps away from the others.

"Promise me that you'll restrain yourself when you see that woman," Rose demanded in a low, but insistent, tone. "Please."

Hux wouldn't lie to her. Instead, he simply assured her that he would resolve the issue as quickly as possible.  "I will meet with the Council tomorrow morning and have you released immediately."

"I know. In the meantime, I'll just beat their pants off in Sabacc." He knew her teasing was meant to reassure him, so he allowed her to believe that it did.

"Good girl," he noted with a kiss to her forehead. He didn't think he could let her go after her murmured response.

"I love you. Now, go check on Gaia." It was only the reminder of his daughter that convinced Hux to leave. 

Before walking out, he directed a glare at the security officer. "If Lieutenant Mitaka reports that my wife so much as sneezes while in here, I will demote you to Sanitation faster than you can blink. Tell me you understand."

"Y-yes, General Hux, I-I understand."

Later, after assuring Motto and Yarev that Rose and her friend were safe and that she would be released soon, Hux found himself sitting on his daughter's bed, watching her as she slept. He needed to be close, to protect her, as he berated his inability to do the same for her mother. Even knowing Yarev had sent several of his most trusted guards to increase security in the brig did little to alleviate Hux's concern or guilt.

He should have anticipated Carise's plan and been prepared, but he had been focused on the Empion mine designs as well as a Chiss alliance. And he had allowed himself to be lulled into complacency by Rose's and Gaia's presence. Tamed creatures, after all, were easier to kill.

He had begun to entertain the idea of staying together. Of finding a way to be a family that didn't set another war in motion. 

Delusional thinking. All of it.

He should have known that the galaxy would never allow him to find peace. Not after all the war he had caused. His family wouldn't be safe with the First Order, and he couldn't leave it. Not if he wanted to keep war from touching them.

He had become careless. He had been remiss.

He had hoped.

And that weakness had endangered Rose and Gaia. 

Lost in thought, he didn't notice that his daughter was awake until he heard her ask, "what's wrong, papa?"

"I didn't mean to wake you, ta'ima. Go back to sleep," he urged as he tucked the cover more snugly around her.

"You can't sleep?"

"No, I can't."

She didn't ask why, and Hux was grateful. He couldn't imagine trying to explain Rose's current situation to his daughter. He had no idea how Rose had dealt with being a single parent for over four years. After only hours, he was already drowning in feelings of inadequacy. 

"Mami always tells me a story when I can't sleep. You wanna story, papa?"

"I'm fine, ta'ima. Go to sleep."

"Lay down and I'll tell you a story," Gaia commanded as she scooted over and pulled on his arm. Hux complied and laid down on his side facing the little girl. She reached over to pat his face, playing with his beard. It reminded him of Rose's soothing touches. Like mother, like daughter.

"It's my favorite. Long time ago, there was a little girl in a tiny village."

"Not a princess?" Hux asked with mock surprise, though he knew better than to think Rose would tell stories like that. Gaia looked disgruntled at his interruption - so much like Rose that his heart ached even more.

"Shh," she reprimanded as she placed her small hand over his mouth before continuing. "Everyone was happy even though they were poor. 'Til one day, a bad char dragon came and stole all their food. Then, he burned down their houses. The vill'gers cried but were too afraid to do anything. So the little girl grabbed a stick and went all by herself to the cave where the char dragon slept to make him stop. But the dragon woke up and caught her."

Hux had no doubt as to the identities of the girl or the dragon in Rose's story. 

"Did the dragon hurt the girl?"

"Nuh uh. Cause just as the char dragon was about to burn her up, she saw a splinter in his foot and pulled it out. The dragon was only hurting the people 'cause he was hurt, and no one helped him. He promised to never hurt anyone again," she explained. "And the dragon and little girl became good friends, even though everyone told her that dragons can't be friends with people. But they stayed together and went on lots of 'ventures. And that's why you should always be kind."

Hux was unsurprised by the happy ending Rose imagined for their story, though he couldn't help but muse aloud, "so the little girl never found a prince?"

Gaia's scrunched nose clearly indicated her thoughts on that potential ending. "Mami says dragons are better than princes."

Of course she does.

"She tells it better, but now you can go to sleep," Gaia stated with full confidence in her mother's methods. Hux wouldn't disappoint her. 

"Yes. You too, ta'ima," he agreed as he closed his eyes, still feeling his daughter's small hands on his face.

"'Night, papa. Love you."

~~

Hux tried to recall the sense of comfort and warmth he felt in that moment as he entered the Council's meeting room the next morning. Surprisingly, he had slept for a few hours, and Gaia had accepted his explanation that Rose was just busy elsewhere. However, his anger returned in full force as he sat across the table from Carise.

As Rose had said, he needed to remain calm. Mostly. Carise wasn't actually interested in hurting Rose – she thought too little of Rose to target her, he believed. No, she was trying to incite Hux to act rashly and against the Order. She wanted to distract and weaken him.

Admiral Cors wasted no time in addressing the situation. "I am aware that you are upset, General."

"You haven't seen upset," Hux countered through gritted teeth. "Why is my wife being detained?"

"Since her arrival, the Coalition has found our location twice," Peavey pointed out.

And Hux was almost certain he knew how, though he didn't yet have the evidence to prove his claims.

He also noted that Peavey referred to Rose's arrival – not mentioning that it also coincided with Hux's own. Either the Council wanted to give Hux the benefit of the doubt, or they were too fearful to accuse him to his face.

"The Coalition found you before."

"Not so quickly," General Nord, Carise's ally on the Council, argued. "And there are still questions about Parnadee's death that are unanswered. Your wife's ties to the Resistance place her under suspicion."

"She's a spy," Carise spat.

"She is not-"

"And you'd know all about spies, wouldn't you?" she interrupted. "Perhaps you have gone back to your old habits. General Parnadee was poisoned, correct? And we all saw you argue with her at your first Council meeting. Remind us, how did your father die again, General?"

So Carise was willing to accuse him out loud. She was not simply trying to provoke him by casting doubt on Rose – she wanted to undermine Hux's authority completely. And if he voiced his own suspicions right now, it would simply be perceived as reactionary and defensive.

Once again, he berated himself for underestimating Carise and her ambitions. For not sending Rose and Gaia away immediately. 

"Please. We need to ask her questions and investigate, General," Admiral Keteris interjected with a quelling look at Carise. "If she is innocent, we'll know soon."

"That is not good enough."

"It will have to be, General," Peavey argued. "As we have stated before, one man will not dictate decisions for the Council."

Seeing that his arguments were having little effect, Hux knew that he would have to pursue another plan to have Rose released.

"You will not question her without my presence." 

"That's-"

"Certainly, General," Keteris interrupted Carise's objection. "That's a reasonable request."

The meeting ended on this assurance and Hux's apparent acquiescence. At least, he thought, he bought a little more time to find the answer. Like the first meeting, Hux and Carise were the last ones in the room, and, judging by her face, Carise intended to gloat over her victory. 

Overly arrogant, the woman never learned.

"What a shame about your little mechanic. You can't trust anyone these days, can you?" Her taunts were accompanied by a vicious smile as she glided to stand just in front of Hux.

"Be very careful, Carise."

"Or what?" She clearly believed that she held the upper hand. Even at her worst, Carise had maintained a dignified facade - politics taught her how to obscure her disdain for others. Now, though, she outwardly reveled in her contempt. "I suppose I should be grateful we didn't work out. Look at you – your mother didn't want you, your father knew you were pathetic, and you can't even protect your little family. No better than that sniveling little bastard boy who used to hide in the closet with tears and snot running down his face."

Hux briefly wondered how long she had been waiting to say all of that. The vitriol had clearly been accumulating for a while. It was time, he thought, to remind Carise that he knew her just as well. 

"I always detested your perfume, you know."

He enjoyed the confusion on her face at his non sequitur. "So?"

"Sickly sweet - like rotten Pta fruit," he recalled. "I loathed it, actually, and often held my breath. And I could always tell when you had been in a room – the smell just lingered."

"I don't see what you think your insults will accomplish."

"Perfume isn't the only thing that leaves a trace, my dear. There are many types of silage. I can still tell where you've been. And what you've done." He moved several steps forward until he was looming over the woman.

"Should I be frightened, Armitage?" Her bravado was ruined when she took a step backward. Hux, though, merely followed her, refusing to grant her the distance she sought. Only a few steps later, Carise was backed up against the wall with no more space for retreat. When she attempted to slide away towards the exit, Hux raised his cane and blocked her.

"You tell me. I'm the Starkiller, remember?" he taunted. "I destroyed an entire system for the Supreme Leader…and I didn't even like him. What, exactly, do you think I would do for people I love?"

Cornered, Carise spat out, "you're not capable of love. Or of being loved. You taint everyone and everything you touch. You said it yourself – you're General Starkiller. All you know how to do is to destroy."

"You would do well to remember that, my dear."

Carise's words rang in his ears as Hux made his way to the detention level. Her accusations weren't false, he admitted. He was an expert at death and destruction – from the intimate act of killing a single opponent in hand-to-hand combat to the impersonal firing of Starkiller.

What did he know of love and hope? Softness and warmth? Rose and Gaia brought these things into his life, but what did he bring to them? Wouldn't he eventually poison their lives? 

Hadn't he already?

Entering the interrogation room, he observed two cots on the floor as well as drinking containers, a sabacc deck, and credits littering the table. Apparently, the women had been serious about passing the time with cards last night.

Rose was reading a datapad at the table, while Lieutenant Mitaka and Connix were sitting on one of the cots together. Rose stood as he crossed the room to her side.

"How are you?"

"Bored," she declared with a roll of her eyes. "How's Gaia?"

Other than the tired look in her eyes and her wrinkled clothing, she did appear well. Hux had expected more worry and concern on her part. Did she have that much faith in him? She shouldn't – he had underestimated Carise. Just as he had done with Pryde. "She wants to know where you are. I almost brought her-"

"No," Rose interrupted. "She shouldn't see this."

Of course, Rose was right, and it only made Hux more frustrated. At one time or another, both the Coalition and the First Order were responsible for separating Gaia from her parents. 

Hux vowed that he would not allow the war to continue to be fought using his family as the battlefield. 

"Don't worry, mhaira. I will have you released soon." His words were meant to assure her, while he reached out and played with the hair that had fallen loose from her braid to soothe himself. 

Gaia had her green blanket. Hux had Rose.

"Just don't do anything dumb, okay?"

He scoffed at her admonishment. "Like burn the whole village down?"

Rose looked surprised just before her face broke out in a wide grin. He was delighted to hear her accompanying laughter before she correctly surmised, "your daughter told you a bedtime story."

"Brat." He allowed a slight smile before refocusing on his goal. "I need Mrs. Mitaka's assistance briefly. Will you be alright?"

"Sure," she agreed without hesitation, though she looked slightly confused by his request. Rose nodded at the couple on the cot, "Doph is here."

"We won't be long."

Hux led Lieutenant Connix back to their quarters before explaining his reasons. He couldn't risk being overheard on surveillance. Motto and Gaia were watching a holoprogram in the sitting area, but he still spoke quietly so that his daughter wouldn't hear him. 

"I need to contact Dameron." As a former Resistance and Coalition liaison, Hux assumed she would have a way to securely contact the pilot.

"Poe? Why?"

"He may be the only way to prove Rose is innocent."

"I need my cylinder code for the encryption," the young woman responded without hesitation. "Do you want me to comm him from here?"

To her credit, Rose's friend didn't balk or question Hux further. Instead, she readily agreed, once again demonstrating her loyalty to Rose. Perhaps the war would have ended differently if the First Order troops had the same loyalty to each other that these rebels had, he mused. A fatal flaw in Brendol's indoctrination program. One that seemed to be gradually correcting itself, though. 

Rose had always admonished him that victory would only be achieved by fighting for something or someone rather than against. He could admit now that she had been correct.

"No. I can't have it traced to the Dominion's comm system. The ship we obtained in Takodana should be a safe option, though."

"Alright. I'll meet you onboard," she declared as she took a few steps towards the door before turning back. "Wait. Am I allowed access to the docking bay?"

"Yes. Rose is the only one officially detained or under suspicion. Your ruse as Lieutenant Mitaka's wife still stands." He noted her blush as she nodded and left.

Feeling a tug on his coat, Hux looked down to find his daughter attempting to get his attention. "When's mami coming back?"

"Very soon, ta'ima. Right now, though, I need to inspect your mami's new ship. I'll-"

"I wanna go."

Hux hardened himself to deny her request. He wanted her safely kept within their quarters. "Not this time."

"Please, papa?" Hux just couldn't say no to the Tico women, it seemed. He also realized that Gaia's presence provided an innocent explanation for why he was visiting the docked ship if anyone questioned it – a father entertaining his daughter.

"Go put your shoes on," he instructed. "And a coat – it's cold in the hangar bay." He watched as she happily skipped to her bedroom to retrieve the clothing. If this didn't work, they may need to run with the clothes on their backs. The old woman's voice pulled him away from contemplating contingencies. 

"You can't blame yourself, Red."

Why was the Motto woman always present for moments like this? The Force truly hated him, it seemed. "Then who should I blame?"

"I'd say the crazy ex," she answered with a shrug. "But you also gotta give Rosie more credit. That girl ain't some fragile flower - I've seen her go toe to toe with a drunk Gamorrean who didn't want to pay his repair bill. She's a tough gal."

He was well aware – he had a scar on his hand as a reminder. But it didn't mean he liked it. "She shouldn't need to be."

"Maybe not, but it's who she is. Anyone who confuses Rosie's kindness for weakness is in for an ugly surprise."

"I'm well aware of Rose's strength, madam."

"'Then trust her, Red. Believe her."

Before Hux could argue that he did trust Rose, Gaia came bouncing back into the room. 

"Ready, papa!" He picked her up naturally, without thought, and settled her on his hip before heading to the hangar.

As usual, Gaia smiled and waved at the officers they passed, and if Hux noticed the sympathetic looks, he gave no indication. He was pleased, though, that the lack of hostility demonstrated that the troops had not believed the accusations about Rose thus far. It seemed that many of the personnel actually favored Rose over someone ostensibly devoted to their own cause.

He understood why. The differences between the two women could not be more obvious. He simply hadn't anticipated the troops' preference for Rose. 

Once on the ship, he allowed Gaia to explore with strict instructions not to touch any levers or buttons. Lieutenant Connix waited for him in the cockpit.

"Ready?" At his nod, she inserted her code cylinder into the ship's computer and began entering the passcode and frequency. After a few tense moments, Dameron's obnoxious face appeared over the holoprojector.

"Kaydel! Where are you? Tell me you didn't get mixed up in this whole thing."

"I'm with Rose, Poe," she firmly responded.

"You turned on the Coalition?" It was difficult to determine whether Dameron was more angry or shocked by the lieutenant's defiant statement. But the young woman took his reaction in stride, even smiling wryly at the pilot's attitude. 

"Not my first mutiny, Poe. As you know well." Hux had no idea what she was referring to, but Dameron's scowl told him that the pilot understood the reference. "Hux needs to speak with you. It's urgent."

At that, Hux leaned forward and caught Dameron's attention. The pilot's face immediately turned blank, and his voice was low when he asked, "what do you want, Hugs?"

"I want the name of your spy."

Dameron's only reaction was a raised eyebrow and a look of poorly acted confusion. "Spy?"

"Whomever has been feeding the Coalition the fleet coordinates of the Remnant."

"No idea what you're talking about there, Hugs."

Hux dearly wanted to beat the smug expression off the pilot's face in that moment. He had no time, or patience, for games. So he told the truth and wagered that Dameron still felt some of the loyalty to Rose that all of her other friends exhibited.That he was, deep down, the friend that Rose still wanted him to be. 

"Rose has been accused. They will likely interrogate her."

Dameron's eyes were accusing when he demanded, "and you just let them take her?"

Hux was right – the pilot still cared. But did he care enough?

"She is safe for the time being," he responded, "but I cannot guarantee she will stay that way if I do not discover the spy's true identity."

"Rose made her bed. And I don't owe you anything." 

"No," Hux agreed. "You owe Rose."

Dameron looked defiant – much as he had on Tatooine – and Hux was losing hope that the pilot would cooperate at all. He wasn't sure what to say that would convince the man.

"You're asking me to commit treason."

"We're all traitors to something, Dameron." Before he could remind the pilot of everything Rose had done for the Resistance, he heard his daughter's voice behind him.

"Poe Poe!"

The look of relief on the pilot's face was evident when Gaia moved into visual range. It was accompanied by a warm and sincere smile – whatever his previous actions, the man obviously cared about Hux’s daughter.

"Hey there, pretty girl. You doing okay, Gigi?"

"Uh huh. Papa's taking care of me 'til mami is done with her meetings. And he promised to get me a cat. But I had to get a shot. It hurt. Papa said I was brave…" Gaia's childish ramblings continued for another minute, but it was clear that Dameron was no longer paying attention. Instead, he appeared thoughtful as he stared at something or someone in his surroundings. 

He seemed to be engaged in an internal debate after seeing Gaia. When she quieted, the pilot pasted on an overly bright smile before addressing her. "Good. Good. That's all great, Gigi. Now let me talk to your…papa for a minute, okay? Finn sends lots of kisses."

"Give him a kiss from me. Bye!" 

Once Gaia left for more exploring, Dameron's face grew serious again, and he regarded Hux for several moments before speaking. "I don't have a name. The messages are encrypted and anonymous."

Hux let out the breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "Do they use the same frequency each time?"

"Yeah."

"That's enough," Hux concluded. "It should at least exclude Rose as a suspect."

"Sending now."

Hux noted the data coming through on the ship's computer with satisfaction. Once he aggregated the frequency with the signal's destination and timing of the messages and attacks, it would be sufficient evidence to prove Rose's innocence.

"We're still going to find you, Hux. You should just surrender."

Apparently, the pilot's loyalty and concern only went so far. Hux wasn't bothered, though – he was still furious with the man for endangering Gaia's rescue and threatening Rose on Tatooine. 

In fact, he was rather grateful. It made revealing the next piece of information all the sweeter.

"Tell me, have you read the reports of your latest attack, Dameron?" Hux could barely contain his smile at the pilot's bemused expression. 

"Yeah. And?"

"The three alien ships that were with our fleet? The ones that the Coalition fired upon and attacked? Those were Ascendancy ships."

"So?" 

Hux couldn't believe that this was the man General Organa left in charge of the Resistance. She must have seen something in him that Hux assuredly did not.  "The Chiss Ascendancy. I am certain even you have heard of them. Grand Admiral Thrawn's Chiss?"

For a second, the pilot's face was blank as he tried to understand the significance. Hux could see the exact moment when realization struck – Dameron's face became incredulous and he practically shouted, "what?"

Hux simply continued his explanation, making no effort to disguise his satisfaction. 

"And you should probably be aware that your Coalition ships managed to violate Chiss sovereign boundaries in its pursuit of the Remnant." Hux paused for just a moment to savor the growing anger on Dameron's face. "I imagine there will be…repercussions."

"You did this!" Dameron exploded. "Somehow, you orchestrated this!"

The moron was finally catching on. 

The only event Hux hadn't anticipated was Rose's arrest, but he had the means to correct that problem now. A better man might feel guilty for using Dameron this way, but Hux needed only to recall the pilot's duplicity and role in keeping his family apart. For Hux, the ledger was yet to be balanced. 

"You should advise your commanders that future incursions into the Unknown Regions in pursuit of us will be met with force by the First Order and its ally, the Chiss Ascendancy." 

With that, he switched off the comm before Dameron could whine further.

The lieutenant, who had been sitting quietly throughout the exchange, merely commented, "well, that was entertaining. I don't think I've seen Poe that shocked since General Organa stunned him."

~~

Several hours later, after leaving Gaia safely in their quarters and then meeting with Security as well as the Council, Hux returned to the detention area and ordered Rose's release.

"Open the door." The guards were quick to obey his command once the Council's order was verified. He found Rose and Lieutenant Mitaka playing cards at the table. "Let's go."

Rose seemed unsurprised by her release and, together with the lieutenant, gathered her things. "That's it?"

"We found evidence that proved your innocence," Hux offered, but he would not elaborate until they reached their quarters.

Rose then spent several minutes with Gaia until Motto led the girl away to prepare for bed. Once the adults were left, Hux explained his conversation with Dameron and the pilot's eventual assistance. Hearing it, Rose softly smiled, clearly pleased that Dameron had stepped up to help her despite  his hatred for Hux and the Order.

Neither he nor Connix mentioned Hux’s taunts to the pilot later in the conversation. 

Rose understood, though, what her friend's involvement meant. "Kaydel, you can't go back now." Like Rose, Hux had presumed that the young woman would return to the Coalition once she was certain of her friend's safety. Apparently, the lieutenant had chosen otherwise. 

"I had already decided that I wasn't," she assured Rose. "Leia always said I was too headstrong for politics anyway. My future isn't with the Coalition." Her last comment was made with a soft smile and a shy look at Mr. Mitaka. Hux was momentarily taken aback by the woman's incongruous behavior as well as his aide's answering grin. He would have to ask Rose about that later.

"So you found the frequency?" Rose's question saved him from further speculation about his lieutenant's romantic life – a topic he had no wish to dwell upon.

"Yes. And a Security analysis of the Dominion's communication logs revealed patterns that showed a single encrypted account accessed it shortly before each Coalition attack. The logs also showed that the spy was active long before you arrived, thus, proving your innocence."

Once Hux had presented the frequency to the Security officers with a vague story about discovering it in his own investigation, the Supreme Council had been forced to clear the accusations against Rose. There were still questions about Parnadee's death, but nothing more than Carise's voiced suspicions currently pointed at Rose or Hux.

"So who is the spy?" 

"Security is still working to break the encryption. I was more concerned with your release. They will inform me once they have completed the analysis. In the meantime, we have increased monitoring of all frequencies and outgoing communications. And all long range comms must be pre-approved."

"So the spy can't contact the Coalition? We're safe?"

"Yes. The Coalition will not be attacking the Remnant for the near future. For several reasons." 

Still, though, Hux remained concerned. The Chiss alliance would keep the Coalition at bay for the time being. And the increased security measures thwarted any attempts by the spy to contact them. But that did not mean the spy couldn't still threaten harm to the fleet or, more importantly, to Rose and Gaia.

The events of the past two days showed him one thing clearly – the dream that his family could safely stay together was just that.

A dream.

A futile one, at that.

Chapter Text

"Hold still, you little skittermouse," Rose admonished as she tried to close the clasps on her daughter's coat. Unfortunately, Gaia's excited squirming was making that difficult. 

"Snow, mami! We get to see snow," her daughter reminded her for possibly the twentieth time in the past hour.

"Not if you don't let me get your coat on, we won't," she warned. Though, in truth, that option didn't exactly bother Rose as she scowled at the garment in question.  "And I've seen snow before. Lots of it."

"But me and Peli haven't. Does it really cover the ground like sand?"

"It can," she assured her daughter as she straightened up, finally finished with the clasps on the offending coat. Rose then reached for her daughter's gloves, sliding them onto Gaia's small hands. "And it's really cold so you have to be all bundled up."

Gaia had never worn cold weather gear before, so Rose was prepared for any complaints from the young girl who had spent her life in loose desert clothing. Her daughter surprised her, though, wearing the bulky layers without objection. 

"Colder than space?"

"Much colder. So cold the water freezes, and you can sled and skate on it." 

Gaia's eyes grew round - both at the thought of so much water and the concepts of snow and ice. Rose remembered how Rey had once described her first planetary experiences after leaving Jakku and realized it would be similar for her daughter. Even Rose had been overwhelmed by the flora and fauna of the galaxy after the harsh and lifeless conditions on Hays Minor.

She couldn't help the flash of guilt she felt – it had never been her intention to limit Gaia's experiences. She had simply been trying to protect her. But she wanted more for her daughter than the sheltered and isolated childhoods Rose and Rey experienced – they had only left their planets because of war.

It was sadly ironic, Rose mused, that people fought wars to save their homes only for the war to take them away from those very homes. How many planets were populated by refugees and soldiers? 

Gaia interrupted Rose's thoughts, "as cold as where you and Auntie PaePae grew up? Ot-mok?"

"No," Rose laughed, "thank the Force. On our planet, you couldn't really spend time outside unless you wore special suits to keep you warm. Sposia isn't that cold." 

"Ready to go?" Peli called out as she entered the sitting area.  She seemed almost as eager as Gaia to be planetside and experience the cold and snow. Sometimes Rose forgot that Peli was even more sheltered – having spent her entire life on Tatooine. She looked almost comical in the insulated coat Hux had sent from Sposia with the rest of their cold weather clothing.

Rose smiled, knowing he would be waiting for them on the planet. Hux had been in meetings on the Chiss world for the past several days, and they all missed him terribly. He wouldn't allow Rose and Gaia to leave the Dominion until he was satisfied that the security measures planetside were up to his standards.

In the weeks since Rose's detainment, Hux had become increasingly protective – to the point of paranoia, in her opinion. At first, he had forbidden Rose from working in the hangar bay. Even after several arguments, he only conceded when she agreed to be accompanied by two of Yarev's security officers at all times.

Their meals had to be prepared in the suite's galley or cooked by an appropriately vetted chef supervised by trusted security personnel. 

Hux would not allow Rose or Gaia outside their rooms at all without him or a security detail. He had even tried restricting visitors to the suite, though Rose had adamantly argued against that limitation. Hux eventually agreed to pre-approved visitors who were searched before entering. 

Rose understood Hux's protectiveness – he blamed himself for not anticipating Carise's move. Regardless, the constant security still chafed. She was used to coming and going as she saw fit, and, as his precautions grew, Rose became more irritable. Feeling smothered, she found herself snapping at others and being moody, and she hated it. She even broke down in frustrated tears several times, though, thankfully never in front of Hux. She didn't want to give him more to worry about or more reason to send them away.

Hux had become more preoccupied and distant since the arrest, and Rose feared that he was purposefully pushing her away. 

She was tense, in constant dread of an announcement that it was time for her and Gaia to leave. It hadn't come yet, though. Hux had been busy with his Empion designs and Chiss discussions. Not to mention the investigations into Parnadee's death and the identity of the spy. When they were all together, Rose shamelessly used her daughter as a deterrent and distraction. When they were alone at night, she found other ways to distract him.

The fact that he let her was a positive sign in and of itself, she thought. Hux wouldn't allow himself to be distracted if he didn't want to be. Surely, it meant that she was making headway. She just needed a little more time. 

Thus, Rose had actually been relieved when he left for Sposia, thinking a few days of separation might help. But, really, she was just more miserable without him. Gaia, too, missed her papa and was anxious to see him again.

"Look at you, Gigi. I'm goin' to have to start calling you Little Red."

Peli's comment, though meant in jest, only made Rose grimace. Surveying her daughter, she took in the offensive coat again - the black, wool coat that was almost an exact replica of the one her father wore.

It had started a few weeks ago - shortly after Rose's detainment. Gaia began asking for "a coat like papa's." Rose initially played it off as a childish whim that would soon fade – there was no blasted way she was going to dress her daughter up like a First Order officer. But Gaia had been vocal and persistent.

Perhaps it was the amount of time Gaia spent with Hux – it wasn't unusual to see her accompany her father on the ship. Hux trusted her safety to very few people, so when his daughter needed a break from their quarters - or Rose needed her own break - he typically took on the responsibility himself. 

Gaia would return and tell Rose about their adventures – how the soldiers called her Little General and how they all listened to her papa. 'Her papa did this. Her papa did that.' She wanted a "soldier coat" like her papa.

Eventually, someone in Procurement must have heard of Gaia's request (fleet gossip), because a child's sized black coat was delivered to their quarters a few days ago - identical to Hux’s down to the rank insignia bands.

Though Rose knew it had been a harmless gesture of goodwill, it set her even more on edge. She ground her teeth as she smiled in thanks. But she refused to accept the small, black gloves that accompanied the coat. That was a step too far.

She was happy that Gaia loved and admired her father so much, and Rose was thrilled that the child wanted to spend so much time with him. 

She was. 

But she couldn't help the small spark of jealousy she felt in the face of Gaia's infatuation with her papa. After only weeks of knowing Hux, it seemed Gaia preferred his attention to that of the mother who raised her for four years. Rose felt selfish and small for having these feelings. And she knew there was really no reason to be insecure – of course Gaia would obsess over the father she just met. Gaia loved her mother and always would. But it still left Rose feeling sensitive and raw at times.

That insecurity stayed with her as she put on her own coat – it too had arrived with the other cold weather clothing Hux had delivered from Sposia. The outfits themselves were more expensive and sophisticated than what she normally wore. For a woman who spent the majority of her adult life in coveralls and utilitarian clothing, Rose couldn't help but feel like an imposter in these new clothes. Like a girl playing dress-up.

But Hux repeatedly emphasized the importance of appearance in the First Order, and, whether she liked it or not, she would be representing the Order with the Chiss on Sposia. Rose understood the importance of the treaty to peace in the Unknown Regions. Possibly the galaxy. And it moved her one step closer to being able to extricate Hux from the First Order.

She was honest enough to admit, though, that her perception of the Order had shifted. Evolved. She could see the difference between the military as a whole and the individual officers and soldiers. Hux, with the aid of the Isolationists, was trying to subtly and slowly change the culture. And the majority of the troops themselves simply wanted peace and self-rule. If the government they wanted - preferred - was authoritarian, who was Rose to criticize? So long as they didn't try to impose it on the rest of the galaxy.

Again.

But this treaty was the key. It would not only help the Order's defense, it would constrain the First Order from preemptive warfare in the future.

And even though the responsibility made Rose nauseous with anxiety, she would play her part. For Gaia. For Hux. 

She recalled how Leia once told her, "heroes and villains share one common trait - they were in the wrong place at the wrong time." Rose had replied that, in her experience, it applied to lovers as well, and Leia laughingly conceded the point.

Rose wasn't a hero. And she didn't believe Hux was a villain. But they were lovers.

Love is the only thing that can save the galaxy. 

But she didn't want to save the galaxy – she just wanted to save her family. Was that too selfish?

Rose pondered these questions as their shuttle departed the Dominion. It was the only First Order capital ship in the fleet that the Ascendancy allowed within its borders. Watching through the shuttle's viewports with Gaia and Peli, she observed the orbital Chiss defenses, but her focus was on the planet below. 

As they entered Sposia's atmosphere, she noted the snow-capped mountains. The verdant plains. The fields of ice and bodies of water. The contrast with the black sand beaches, the result of strong volcanic activity. The planet was a beautiful contradiction of starkness and lushness. Rose understood why several Chiss families, like the Stybla, and millions of Chiss had chosen Sposia as their home planet.

Landing at the port city of Desum, Rose was relieved to see the glint of Hux's hair among the few black-clad First Order troops and Chiss awaiting them. 

Unfortunately, as soon as the ramp lowered, her anxiety returned. Gaia immediately yanked her hand from Rose's and dashed toward her father.

"Papa!"

Rose watched as Gaia barreled into her father's legs, almost knocking him down in the process. She suppressed the twinge of jealousy she felt at her daughter's enthusiastic greeting. 

While Hux wasted no time in picking her up, his eyes stayed focused on Rose. The intensity of his gaze sparked another kind of twinge – he hungrily looked at her as if it had been months rather than days since he had seen her last.

Ignoring the welcoming party's scrutiny, Rose walked directly to him, reaching up and touching Hux's face. His expression remained inscrutable, and Rose was the only one to notice as he leaned imperceptibly into her caress.

"You look tired," she remarked quietly. 

He did. This close, she could see the lines of strain on his face. The pallor. She didn't know if it was due to the stress of the treaty negotiations or concern for her and Gaia. Probably both and more besides, knowing Hux.

"Apparently, I can no longer sleep without someone drooling on my shoulder or kicking me incessantly." His voice was just as quiet as hers had been - as if it were only the two of them on the landing pad.

"You could just say you missed me, you know."

"And why would I say that?" he queried with a smirk.

"I missed you. And the only reason I kick is to get those blocks of ice you call feet away from me."

"Did you miss me?" Gaia's question pulled their focus from each other and to their daughter.

"Have you been good for your mami, ta'ima?"

"Yes?" 

Hux glanced back at Rose for elaboration of his daughter's purposefully vague non-answer. Like father, like daughter. 

"She missed you too," Rose explained with a shrug. Hux clearly understood what she meant as he looked sternly at the little girl in his arms.

"Well, now I don't know if you deserve your surprise."

Gaia's eyes widened as she pleaded her case. "I'll do better, papa. I'll be so good. Pinky promise," she added, presenting the aforementioned digit to seal the deal.

"See that you are – your mami looks tired as well." At that, Hux looked back at her and Peli, standing close by, and said in a louder voice, "come. Let's get all of you to the cabin and settled in."

Hux spent several minutes introducing them to the waiting Chiss – Rose recognized Aristocra Latros, representing the Stybla family, but the others were strangers. Her insecurity surfaced again as she greeted the elegant Chiss. They were all tall and slender, confident and urbane in a way that made Rose feel like a backwater yokel. Even Peli seemed impressed by their hosts - her eyes almost as round as Gaia's as she took it all in.

Rose couldn't help but notice that Gaia was clinging tightly to her father as they made their way through the unfamiliar crowd. She was surprised to see that they were headed toward a nearby water dock rather than a speeder or shuttle. 

"Our accommodations are across the bay," he explained when he noticed her confusion. "The Sposians prefer traditional water travel when possible."

The boat waiting for them, really more of a yacht, was beautiful. Its design was similar in style to the other buildings and structures she had seen as they landed and debarked - all fluid lines and curved forms. She was unsure whether it was typical of all Chiss architecture and design or particular to Sposia, but she found it quite striking. 

Aristocra Latros said goodbye before they boarded, though she promised to visit soon.

"Can your granddaughter come with you?" Gaia asked, remembering her first meeting with the Chiss leader.

"I'll see what I can do," the Aristocra promised as they were ushered onto the boat by a security detail composed of First Order officers and Chiss warriors. 

The ride was short, but Rose enjoyed every moment of it. Unused to anything but the relatively smooth feeling of repulsor travel, she delighted in the choppy motions of the waves. She stood on the deck, letting the cold wind soothe her nervous stomach, and watched as Hux, still holding his daughter, pointed out landmarks on the shore to her.

In that moment, Rose wondered how she could have ever been jealous as the two people she loved most in the galaxy loved each other as well. Even their identical black coats didn't irritate as much, though she was still glad she talked Gaia into pink gloves rather than black.

They docked on a secluded shoreline – Rose could see only one structure in the vicinity. Knowing Hux, he chose it for its secure and defensible location. Upon reaching the end of the small dock, Gaia, free of her father's arms and followed closely by Peli, ran to the water's edge. Rose paused long enough to see that Hux directed the security team and crew to take their bags to the nearby house. He seemed to be providing the guards with additional security instructions as well. 

Minutes later, he joined her and they walked across the black sand to Gaia. A peace settled over Rose as he took her hand in his – he must have missed her to be so public with his affection. 

It was one of those perfect moments in life — when all your dreams seem tangible and you are so happy your heart literally aches.

Because it knows it is just a moment. Ephemeral. 

But, for right now, she was holding hands with Hux on a beautiful beach as their child played in the surf. No war. No politics. Just a family. 

"Yuck!" Rose looked over at Gaia, a few steps away, to find her wiping her mouth in disgust.

"It's saltwater, ta'ima," Hux explained as he pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped his daughter's face.

"Like tears?"

"Like tears."

"Why?"

Rose waited for Hux to launch into a dry, scientific explanation of salinity that would bore the four-year-old in seconds. He surprised her, however, when he spoke.

"The old storytellers on my planet used to say that the Goddess of the Sky fell in love with the Fire God. She yearned to be with him but couldn't leave her place in the sky. And he couldn't survive in the sky because there was nothing there to burn. When the sky goddess realized they could never be together, she cried for a thousand years, and her tears became the oceans and the seas."

"That's so sad." It took Rose a moment to realize that she, not Gaia, had spoken. Tears pricked her eyes, though Hux only regarded her with his typical smirk.

"That's why 'don't let the sorrow drown you' and 'swimming in sadness' are common sayings there. Arkanisians are not known for their optimism."

"I wanna learn how to swim!"

"You don't know how?" Hux looked surprised at Gaia's declaration and turned to Rose for clarification. 

"Tatooine, remember? Water was too precious for anything but drinking," she reminded him.

"You should teach her - it's dangerous for her to not know how to swim. Especially on Eiram."

Rose's stomach flipped when he mentioned Eiram. What did he mean – that Rose should leave and take Gaia there or that they would all live there? As a family. Rather than discussing (arguing over) it in front of their child, though, she resolved to focus on the immediate topic.

"You think I know how to swim?" she countered. "Ice planet, war, desert planet. I can barely tread water." Rose laughed at the appalled look on Hux's face at her admission. 

"This is unacceptable. Dangerous," he declared, scowling. After a beat, he added, "Sposia's volcanic activity has created a number of geothermal pools – in fact, there is an underground one attached to our lodging. I used it for my leg, but it should be large enough for some basic lessons."

"I don't know," Rose hedged.

"Please, mami!"

"It's a necessary skill," Hux insisted as he and Gaia looked at her expectantly.

"Alright, alright. Swimming lessons on a Chiss planet in the Unknown Regions was not something I anticipated but whatever." Despite her gruff acquiescence, Rose was thrilled at the thought of more family time. She needed to use every moment she could on Sposia to remind Hux why they should stay together. 

"We'll begin tonight. First, let's go and settle in and see your surprise," Hux affirmed as he gestured toward the house a short walk away.

Gaia was nearly bouncing in excitement as she grabbed Peli's hand and pulled her toward the cabin. Well, that's what Hux had called it. This was not a cabin as Rose understood the concept, however. Slightly larger than the cliffhouse on Eiram, it reminded Rose of the romantic villas she had only seen in holodramas.

Several stories high, the design utilized the fluid lines of the other Sposian structures, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the beach and bay.

Once again, Rose's insecurity surfaced - she had never stayed in such a luxurious place in her life. She didn't belong here.

Sensing her hesitation, Hux again took her hand and pulled her along in Gaia's wake. Rose's nerves had slightly settled by the time they reached the entrance, where Hux entered the passcode.

By this point, Gaia was practically sparking with energy and excitement. "Where's my surprise? What is it?"

"Go see," her father instructed, and she raced through the door as soon as it slid open. The adults followed the girl's excited squeals into what must have been the sitting area of the great room.

Gaia was seated on the floor holding a small wriggling cub in her arms. 

"Mine?" Gaia's eyes were full of wonder, as if she couldn't believe it could be true. It seemed Rose's dreams weren't the only ones Hux made tangible. 

"All yours," he assured her. "It's a whisper cub - the Chiss keep them as pets just like cats. You can train her, and when she's bigger, she'll be able to help protect you."

"She's perfect. Thank you, papa!"

Rose eyed the animal skeptically – white with black spots on its back and golden eyes, it was clearly very young. But she could already see its sharp little teeth and claws.

"Is it safe?"

"Perfectly. As she grows, you'll just need to keep her claws and teeth blunted until fully trained."

Rose did not miss Hux's use of 'you' rather than 'we,' and her stomach dropped at the implication. But now was not the time.

"How much will it grow?" she asked, eyeing the cub's large paws.

"Less than a meter tall and long and no more than sixty pounds. Aristocra Latros said this one was the runt of the litter and will probably remain on the smaller side."

That was not small - it would be almost as big as a Corellian hound.

"That's…big. Is that even feasible on a ship?"

"As I said, the cub can be trained to protect her."

His evasion was glaring, and Rose had just about had enough.  She was questioning whether it was time to openly confront him about his intentions when Peli, seated on a chair near Gaia, asked, "so what are you gonna call her, Gigi?"

"Millisecond."

"Millisecond?" Peli looked confused at the unusual name.

"Papa's cat was Millicent. So this one is Millisecond," the little girl answered before looking up at her father. "Is that okay, papa?"

Rose noted that Hux's face had frozen at Gaia's choice of name. But she could see that he blinked rapidly and visibly swallowed before answering.

"Quite."

~~

Gaia spent the afternoon playing with 'Milli' as Hux worked on documents and made calls in the 'cabin's' private office. Peli happily acquainted herself with the kitchen and some of the unfamiliar Sposian ingredients. Rose would bet anything that Hux had lived on ration bars and nutritive milk before they arrived. 

She wanted to remind him of the comforts of good meals and gentle touches – that domestication was not something to be feared.

For herself, Rose roamed their temporary quarters, admiring the interior and beautiful views. In all honesty, though, she was almost afraid to get comfortable – to touch the elegant furniture and decor with her grubby, mechanic's hands.

As she often did, Rose wished Paige were here to see it. And to chide Rose for her insecurity and lack of confidence. Her sister's support had always made Rose feel braver. Guided her when she was uncertain.

She again wished for her sister hours later as she, Hux, and Gaia descended the steps to the below-ground geothermal pool Hux had mentioned. They had eaten, watched their daughter play with Milli, and then tried on the suits that Hux had delivered to the villa for them. Rose felt a bit self-conscious in the tight-fitting suit, but she had to admit that Gaia looked adorable. 

They entered an underground cavern that made Rose think that the house was purposefully built over the natural formation. Perhaps it helped heat the entire structure – the air was quite warm. The pool itself was only about six meters in diameter, and she could see the steam rising from the warm waters.

Hux had also assured her it was just over a meter deep, so she could safely stand in it or sit on one of the ledges carved into the side.

Gaia was unusually hesitant at first, and Rose suggested she use the flotation band that had arrived with the swimming suits.

"No, that's only for playing," Hux countered. "She won't learn to swim properly if she is wearing it."

He finally coaxed the little girl into the water with a promise not to drop her. 

"Pinky promise?"

Rose smiled as Hux carried her around the pool in his arms as she giggled and splashed. 

There was certainly something to be said for a wet Hux, she thought, as he threw his head back to get his drenched hair out of his face. She noted that he wore a wetshirt and assumed he didn't want Gaia to see the scars on his torso. 

She watched as he showed Gaia how to float on her back and how to move her arms and legs in the water. After much convincing, she even agreed to put her head in the water and blow bubbles.

"I'm a mhaira too, mami!" she pronounced as she popped her head from the water. Hux must have told his daughter the stories of the water maidens from his Arkanis folktales.

"You are, baby! You'll be swimming underwater with all the fishies soon, I bet."

"A natural."

Gaia preened under her parents' praise, and Rose collected another moment to cherish. They deserved this. 

Didn’t they? 

A chance to be just a normal family. Not beings who held the fate of the First Order, possibly the galaxy, in their hands. Rose understood clearly the weight of the burden that Leia had carried. That Rey had seemed to carry near the end of the war. And look what that got them. Rose simply refused to let the same happen to her and her family. 

For just a moment, she fantasized about knocking Hux out with an electro-shock prod and carting him away from the Order, but she knew his role was too critical at present.

For now. 

A girl could dream, though.

"Gigi! Time to get ready for bed - Milli's waiting for you." Rose looked away from Hux and Gaia to see Peli coming down the last few steps into the cavern. "Well, look at this! Only thing you'd find in a cave on Tatooine is an old hermit."

"Peli, I can swim!"

"Good for you, Gigi. You can teach me," the older woman praised. "Now, c'mon, off to bed. Milli is crying for you."

At the mention of her new cub, Gaia scrambled out of the pool. She gave wet kisses to her parents, and flew up the steps, leaving a trail of water in her wake.

"I've got her. You two can have all the time you want. Rosie looks like she could use some lessons too," Peli declared with a wink as she followed Gaia.

"She does have some good qualities," Hux remarked as he turned back to Rose. 

"I told you she'd grow on you."

"Indeed. Like mold."

From her perch on the underwater bench, Rose laughed at his sour expression, though she sobered quickly as he closed the distance between them.

"Your turn."

"For what?" she asked coyly. 

"Swimming."

"Huh?"

Seeing that he was serious, she argued, "no, no, I'm good. I can tread water. Won't drown. Thanks, though. Much appreciated." She was not going to let Hux see her flailing and foundering in the water like a dying fish. No, thank you. 

"It's a matter of safety, mhaira. You could drown or you could be unable to save Gaia if she were struggling in the water."

Fuck the Force. He knew bringing their daughter into it would motivate her. At that, she allowed him to pull her into his arms and onto her back. "Don't drop me!" she demanded, sounding just like her daughter. 

His only response was to roll his eyes. At first, Rose struggled to be still - to not kick out her legs and flail. But after a few moments, reassured by the feel of Hux's arms under her, she calmed and began to actually float.

This wasn't so bad. 

She looked up at Hux to find his gaze locked on her. Just not on her face. Definitely not so bad.

"Who taught you how to swim, anyway?" she asked curiously.

"No one. When I was three or four, a group of my father's cadets tossed me into a lake. I either had to learn quickly or drown."

Rose didn't know why she was shocked – Hux had told her a bit about his childhood. And his scars had told her the rest. But he rarely spoke about his years on Arkanis. 

Planting her feet and standing once again in the water, she asked, "did your father reprimand them?"

"He told them that, next time, they should make it a real challenge and throw me into the ocean to see if I could outswim the predators. So they did. And I did."

Rose couldn't help but visualize a small Hux, terrified, being thrown into the water by a gang of laughing youth. She was struck by the contrast between that image and his own patient instruction with Gaia. Could he not see what a good father he was?

That if his goal was to ensure Gaia had a different childhood than his own, he was surely succeeding? 

Rose wanted to pull him away from those bad memories and dark thoughts.

"Bet you feel like a dummy now."

Startled by the non-sequitur, he looked at her in confusion. "Pardon?"

"For calling me a mhaira. Some water maiden I am – can't even swim," she joked.

"It's not a reference to your aquatic abilities or lack thereof," he countered, walking backwards in the water, tugging her along, until he reached the side. He sat on the underwater ledge and pulled her close. "Mhaira are beautiful creatures – sailors are helplessly drawn to them and it's useless to resist."

Rose almost laughed at the description of her as a beautiful siren, but the hungry look in his eyes, like the one she saw when they arrived, stopped her. Still, she tried to lighten the mood which had become suddenly heavy and thick.

"To their death, right? And the mhaira steal their souls. Is that what you think of me?"

Hux didn't react to her teasing except to pull her even closer, until she was standing between his legs, their chests almost touching. It had only been a few days, but, oh, she had missed this. Her heart beat faster as she played with the wet strands of hair that fell on his forehead.

Standing here in the water with him, alone in the warm cavern, had that same otherworldly, out-of-time feel as hyperspace – like they were the only two beings in the galaxy.

"Are you implying, my dear, that I have a soul?

"And if I am?" Rose challenged.

In answer, he leaned forward and laid his head against her chest. 

"You'd be wrong. I don't. It's always been yours."

"So I took your soul," she surmised, still teasing. She smiled and rested her chin on Hux's head as she continued to play with his hair. "Does that mean I'll lure you to your death as well?"

"One man's drowning is another man's baptism."

She knew she surprised Hux when she drew abruptly back – she could see the confusion, and annoyance, in his eyes at her reaction.

"How do you do that?" Rose demanded. "You're a smirking asshole ninety percent of the time, but then you say something like that to me."

He shrugged, awkwardly trying to dismiss the brevity of his words. "I've always had some aptitude with words - my military speeches were quite effective, as you may recall." Now, it was Hux trying to distract her from getting too serious. 

But Rose was past that. She was tired of the anxiety and the evasiveness. The non answers.

"I'm not talking about wartime propaganda. I'm talking about us."

He must have heard the plea in her voice. His expression was once again utterly sincere. She was startled by the intensity in his eyes – Rose recognized the look as being almost the same as he had worn in the holorecording she watched years ago of his Starkiller speech. 

She shivered.

It was the face of a believer. 

But what did he believe in now?

"War was all I ever knew," he answered her unspoken question. "Until you."

"We met in a war," she tartly reminded him.

"But you felt like peace."

Yet again, tears clogged Rose's throat and threatened to spill from her eyes.

"There you go again," she accused in a watery voice.

Apparently, the tears won, and Hux reached up to wipe them away, clearly forgetting that his hand was, itself, wet. He gave up that effort, and cupped her cheek instead.

"You ruined me, mhaira."

At that, he pulled her face close to his own, until their noses touched and they were breathing each other in.

"Is that good or bad?" she whispered. 

He answered just before their mouths touched.

"I'm not certain that I care."

As he swallowed her moans, she decided that she didn't either. She wanted to ruin him. To hold his heart in her greedy little hands. To make sure he never knew peace unless it was with her.

Rose knew she sounded selfish, but there had always been a covetous edge to her love. Perhaps it was the result of being the youngest child – the people she loved had always been 'hers.' She had looked at her parents, her grandmother, her sister and thought, with all the confidence of the baby of the family, 'mine.' Believing no one could take them away from her.

Until they had.

And she saw Hux the same. Even from the start. Rose had looked up at him from the deck of the Supremacy as he slipped her pendant back over her head and thought, "mine," just before she bit him.

'Mine to hate.'

'Mine to hurt.'

And then it eventually, unexpectedly became 'mine to love.'

To keep.

But then he, too, was taken away. Now she had him back - this terrible, beautiful man - and she would not lose him again.

And she knew his love was just as possessive, if not more so. He didn't say the words – and, if she was truly honest, it hurt sometimes – but she knew. She could feel it in the way his hands slid over her skin. The mouth that claimed her own.

Mine.

Rose didn't know if it was the water or the warm air - or whether it had just been too many days - but her skin sparked everywhere he touched. By the time his hands found her sensitive breasts, she could barely stand still. 

He tugged the straps of her suit down, his mouth replacing his hands and Rose sighed at the dual sensations - the soothing comfort of the warm water and the arousal from Hux's attentions. 

Somehow, he maneuvered them until it was Rose kneeling on the ledge, her suit completely gone, and Hux behind her. He touched her everywhere, claiming each piece of her as his own. At his gentle pressure, she leaned forward, her hands braced on the cavern's floor.

"Spread your legs," he whispered near her ear.

Once she did, his hand delved between them, slipping into her, pushing before pulling out and swirling up around her clit. Over and over until she was a writhing mess.

"It's never enough," he murmured against her neck, nipping lightly.

Rose understood his frustration – it could never be close enough. Not until they found a way to burrow inside of each other and live there.

She felt him line himself up behind her, and then he was inside her. She was overcome by the sense of belonging she felt, his body behind her, sheltering her. Cradling her. His hands gripped her hips as he kissed the side of her face and neck. All while murmuring his familiar Arkanisian endearments.

She liked to believe he was saying, "I love you," and "stay" and "always." 

But she never asked, afraid he would stop saying anything at all.

They moved together, her body starting to tremble as the pleasure built. He slipped one hand around her hip to find her clit, and she felt her orgasm climbing. She arched her back, throwing her head against his chest, as she went over the edge. With a groan, he immediately followed. 

They slowly relaxed, catching their breaths, but were both reluctant to move. To separate. 

She felt his lips move to her temple, and he spoke again, though this time in Basic.

"Mine."

Chapter Text

Hux sat, watching the flames, as he enjoyed a few rare moments of solitude and quiet. He had spent his life on noisy starships and military bases, he mused, yet nothing had prepared him for the clamor of his four-year-old daughter. How, exactly, did a child create more noise than an army?

Not always, though, he admitted. Gaia could spend hours practicing her reading or working on puzzles, if she wanted, in preternatural stillness and silence – much like her father. Other times, she was as restless and fidgety as her mother. A hurricane in a child's body.

He briefly pondered which tendency would become dominant as she grew. Or would she maintain a delicate balance of her parents' traits?

Just then, he heard the little girl's giggle over the crackling of the fire and sighed, appreciating the moment. After five years of near silence, he couldn't quite believe that he had the chance to hear that sound. There were times he questioned whether he was still back in his cell, trapped in some elaborate hallucination. 

If so, he wished to stay there.

The outer door opened and closed, alerting him that he was no longer alone. He didn't resent the loss of his solitude, though.

He always preferred her presence. 

"Is she asleep?"

"She was pretending to be, so I would leave and she could play more with Milli," Rose answered with a soft laugh. "I really thought she'd be exhausted from the swimming lesson – I'm worn out myself."

They had continued the swimming lessons for the past week whenever Hux had time. He was busy with negotiations and meetings much of the day, but he always reserved his evenings for Rose and Gaia.

Rose herself had been occupied with Gaia, sightseeing, and errands since their arrival on Sposia. She kept going, even when she was clearly tired. He noted her yawn as she came into the courtyard to join him, sitting near the fire.

"Come here," he told her as he offered his hand.

"Your leg." Her protest was weak, though.

"Come here." Once he had her hand, he tugged until she acquiesced and sat on his lap, laying her head against his shoulder with a sigh.

"Good girl."

"I don't know why I'm so tired."

He almost snorted. "Because you have been going non-stop in your determination to see the entire planet, dragging Gaia and Motto along with you." His comment sounded sullen to his own ears. He didn't object to Rose's touring – so long as proper security precautions were taken – but it frustrated him that he could not participate even if he had time to do so. 

Rose often took the others on hikes – Sposia was known for its eco tourism. She was even teaching Gaia and Motto how to skate and sled. But Hux's bad leg made it almost impossible for him to join them.

The injury didn't bother him for the most part. He was familiar with chronic pain, and, as he once told Rose, the limp served to remind the First Order troops both of their defeat at the hands of Pryde and Palpatine as well as his imprisonment by the Coalition. 

But it bothered him that the leg placed limitations on how he spent time with them.

"They're the ones dragging me around. It's like they've never seen snow or ice before." Rose laughed at her own joke, causing Hux to roll his eyes when she did snort. "Besides, it's not the sightseeing – it's the shopping and planning. It's awful."

It was apparently Rose's turn to sound peevish, and he knew why. He also commiserated to a degree. The Ruling Families were hosting a gala in two days to celebrate the alliance between the Ascendancy and First Order. That is, if negotiations were successful. 

Rose had gone into a complete panic when she realized that she would need formal attire. He had rarely seen her as overwhelmed as she appeared in that moment. Fortunately, the Connix woman had offered to assist Rose, and Aristocra Latros was able to direct them to some designers and shops.

Even Lieutenant Stynnix had volunteered to help after delivering Carise's 'offer' to provide a suitable garment for Rose. To everyone's relief, Rose rejected the idea, neither trusting Carise nor wanting to be beholden to her. Hux was certain she would have provided something completely unsuitable in an effort to embarrass Rose.

"Did you manage to find a dress you liked?"

"Yes?" Her answer reminded him of Gaia's attempts at obfuscation. 

"Mhaira."

"It's a wonderful dress - Kaydel and Lusica love it. And I was lucky the designer could make the adjustments." She paused as if trying to find the words. "It just doesn't feel like me."

"Then wear your coveralls if you don't like the dress – it makes no difference to me."

"Yeah, it would be Canto Bight all over again. No thanks. And I do love the dress – it's beautiful. But I think it's too beautiful for me."

"Stop that. Look at me, Rose," he ordered, nudging her face until she looked up. "You are the most exquisite woman I have ever known. Radiant. I won't have you thinking otherwise."

"But what if I embarrass you in front of the Chiss and hurt the negotiations?"

"You won't. But, if I must, I'll declare war on the Ascendancy for upsetting you."

"You're not funny," she declared as she yawned once again. 

Did she not realize he was serious?

"The shopping hasn't been a total loss, though. Do you like it?" Rose asked as she rubbed the soft wool of the sweater she had purchased for him.

"It's warm." Rose had bought a number of items for Gaia, her friends, and Hux. Even Milli, the cub, had received a new collar and several toys. When he suggested that she just order anything they needed and have it delivered, Rose rolled her eyes and crossed her arms before lecturing him that 'normal beings' didn't live like that.

And she wondered why she was tired?

Intent on ordering her to ease up and rest, Hux looked down to find her already fast asleep. He supposed it wouldn't hurt to let her sleep a bit – it wasn't that cold, and the fire was still blazing.

And, truthfully, he wanted to hold her. He recalled their last meeting on Starlight when he had done the same. Predicting that he would not see her for some time, he had held her and watched her as she slept. Then, he didn't see her again for five years.

Was history going to repeat itself? 

He knew that he should send Rose and Gaia away. Although Carise had backed off a bit after her unsuccessful accusation against Rose, Hux knew she was still a threat – one of several.

While Hux was on Sposia, Captain Yarev and Lieutenant Mitaka, as well as Connix, continued working diligently to locate evidence of the actual spy's identity as well as proof of Parnadee's poisoner. They had a clear suspect, but as of yet, were unable to confirm it.

The slow progress had frustrated Hux, knowing that his family were in heightened danger until the evidence was found. He was even more on edge after Yarev reported that Major Opan had not been observed on the Dominion for several days. Hux was reluctant to dig further, not wanting to alert Opan or anyone else to how close they were to proving his involvement in the poisoning. Yarev believed they were only days away from establishing his culpability. 

But would Rose and Gaia be safe once Opan was arrested? His inability to answer that question tortured him.

Hux had never suffered from indecisiveness before. He chose a goal, determined a strategy to achieve his ends, and never veered from that path. Even when he had to wait years for the desired outcome.

Until Rose Tico. 

The only person to have ever convinced him to go a different direction.

And here he was again – changing his mind so often that he should have whiplash. One moment, he was committed to sending Rose and Gaia away. To protect them from the First Order. 

And himself. 

Yet the next moment, hearing Gaia's laugh or seeing Rose's smile, he was just as determined to keep them close. To find a way to stay together. Holding a sleeping Rose, he couldn't fathom letting her go.

He was also well aware of Rose's campaign to persuade him. She was not subtle. And he was not too insecure to admit that it was working. The time with his family, planetside on Sposia, had made Hux agonizingly aware of what he would lose. While part of him admired Rose's cunning, he also lamented teaching her strategy so well in the first place. 

He knew what she wanted – for them to leave the First Order and settle somewhere as a family. Though her attitude toward the Order had softened over the past months as changes were implemented, she didn't wish to stay. She believed they could survive without the First Order or the Coalition. 

Hux, though, was more realistic. If they didn't choose a side, they would end up crushed in the middle when the inevitable battle was fought. Thus, it was Hux's duty to prevent that battle. 

Regardless, he needed to make a decision. And soon – he had given himself a deadline, and the treaty should be finalized in a matter of days. At that point, he would be unable to rationalize any further postponement – he had to make his choice. 

Rose liked to remind him that General Organa said that one should choose love over duty. But what, he wondered, as his arms tightened around Rose, should you choose when your duty is to protect those you love? 

At any cost.

He sat there, holding Rose and watching the flames as they slowly died, agonizing over the answer. 

~~

"Are you enjoying Sposia, my dear?"

Hux looked up from his datapad to find Aristocra Latros speaking to Rose as they sat on the deck of the boat.

"Very much, though I'm still getting used to boats. It's a little rough today."

It was. Storms had moved into the area last night after Hux had taken Rose inside to bed. It was, he had been told, a common occurrence on Sposia at this time of year. As a result, the bay was much choppier than usual. He and Latros were unaffected, but they had spent more time on water than Rose.

"I'll be right back," Rose excused herself as she went inside the cabin. Hux was about to follow when the Aristocra addressed him.

"And is your daughter enjoying the whisper cub?"

"She is. We have already started some basic training. Once again, I am grateful for your assistance in the matter. And for today's opportunity – it will make Rose quite happy."

Like Yarev, Aristocra Latros was proving to be a trustworthy ally. She advocated strongly for the treaty and had assisted Hux and his family personally as well. Earlier in the day, she brought her granddaughter to meet Gaia. While only a year older, the girl seemed more solemn and mature than his daughter. But she and Gaia had quickly decided to be friends and had been busy trying to teach Milli simple tricks when the adults left.

Hux’s heart still hitched a bit when he heard the animal's name. Millicent had been the one piece of warmth in his life until Rose, and it was bittersweet.

"Rea enjoys her own cub very much. As for today, I should warn you, we will only have access to the declassified wing at the UAG. It's really more of a museum than anything else."

Latros had kindly offered to take Hux and Rose on a visit to the Universal Analysis Group's facilities. It was a rare opportunity – the Chiss were very secretive regarding their technology repository and labs. The UAG, managed primarily by the Stybla family, collected technology from all over – the Chaos and Lesser Space – and focused on reverse engineering and repurposing the artifacts for the Ascendancy. 

Indeed, Hux had been very appreciative of the invitation – an activity that didn't preclude his participation because of his gait. And it was one meant for the adults.

While he and Gaia continued the swimming lessons – with Rose occasionally joining – and fishing, he wanted to spend time with Rose as well. He smirked as he recalled Rose's shock that he and his daughter both enjoyed fishing. He didn’t know whether Gaia truly enjoyed the patience and stillness required, or whether she simply wanted to spend time with him. 

Rose declined the fishing invitations, though, claiming that she couldn't sit still for that long. Hux believed that she just didn't like the wriggling bodies and smell of dead fish after seeing her wrinkle her nose in disgust during their first outing. Gaia, on the other hand, had proven quite bloodthirsty and hadn't hesitated to handle the bait or catch – alive or dead.

A little while later, he was grateful once again when he saw Rose's eyes widen, followed by a delighted smile, when they gained entry into the Archive Wing of the UAG complex. Her eyes darted from one shelf and pedestal to another, never resting, as she tried to take in all of the items.

Hux, too, was quite impressed. The collection represented thousands of years technological innovations throughout the galaxy. He wasn't sure how he would ever get Rose to leave.

"Welcome to the Archives. This is, of course, only the declassified portion – these artifacts have been exhaustively studied and either we have learned all we can or they have been categorized as non-useful."

"There's more?" Rose asked, her disbelief clear. Hux understood her skepticism – this wing alone was the size of a large warehouse.

"Yes, but no one outside of the Defense Fleet and UAG senior staff have access to the underground vaults."

Certainly, the security protocols had been thorough as they entered this wing. And numerous Chiss guards stood sentry here – guarding useless pieces. He could only imagine the measures used to protect more sensitive artifacts.

"But, perhaps, that will change once the treaty is finalized. We shall see."

Hux pulled his attention from watching Rose roam about the room to observe Aristocra Latros. Her comment, though vague, was clearly intended to pique his interest.

He was well aware of the fact that the Aristocra wanted something, though he was unsure if it was from him or the Order. She had been extremely helpful to him both in and out of negotiations. 

The Chaff family, for example, had been very stubborn concerning several treaty clauses, and their allies, the Clarr among others, had been outright antagonistic at times.

Latros was working to find appropriate compromises that would allow the agreement to be finalized. Hux suspected that she was not solely motivated by the Ascendancy's interests, though.

Just then, he heard Rose exclaim, "wow! Is that a droideka?" When he and Latros walked over to Rose, she was indeed staring at one of the old Clone Era battle droids. "I've never seen a complete model! Just random parts here and there. Does it function?"

In response to Rose's question, the Aristocra pulled out her Questis, tapping on the screen.  "I am not certain. We do not employ droids in the Ascendancy, so I believe it was only studied for its armor and its computer 'brain.' Unfortunately, it looks like its coding was too simplistic to be of much use."

"Yeah," Rose readily agreed. "Droidekas were pretty dumb. But you missed the good stuff – their deflector shields."

"Deflector shield?" Aristocra Latros seemed curious at Rose's enthusiasm. 

"Uh huh. They had personal shields which were really strong – it basically took an EMP to destroy the thing. But that's not the best part. The deflector shields were polarized so that the droid's shots could penetrate out, but the enemy's couldn't get in."

"Fascinating," Latros commented, inputting information into her Questis. "I will have to instruct our techs to take another look. These droids are not still in use in Lesser Space?"

Hux could almost see the gears turning behind Latros' eyes as she wondered what other artifacts he and Rose might have insight on. Once again, Rose seemed to have improved the Order's standing without even trying. 

Oblivious to the undercurrents, Rose answered Latros' question. "Yeah. The only beings that find these anymore are scavengers."

"Like your Jedi," Hux sneered. Rose never mentioned it, but he suspected it hurt her that her supposed friend hadn't contacted her in months. Just another reason to dislike the woman as far as Hux was concerned. Rose's only response, though, was to roll her eyes at him in exasperation. 

"I have heard of these Jedi. They are able to use…you call it a force?"

"The Force, yeah," Rose confirmed. "Jedi serve the Light Side and Sith worship the Dark."

"Mystical nonsense," Hux murmured, but Rose's glare told him she had heard.

"Your friend is one of these Jedi?" Hux found himself surprised by the Aristocra's interest. He believed the Chiss were too logical to concern themselves with hokey religions.

"No. Not really." Rose frowned as she sought the words to explain the Scavenger's situation. He found himself, like Latros, to be slightly curious as well. "I mean, she was trained by Luke Skywalker and his sister to be a Jedi, but she told me there are lots of paths for Force users and that the Jedi one might not be right for her."

"You have skywalkers?" Latros' question was sharp – she seemed somewhat flustered, though Hux couldn't determine why. Curious.

"The family? Not anymore – they're all gone now," Rose explained. She hesitated, though, before adding, "sort of."

What did she mean by that?

"Oh." The Aristocra appeared uncertain of Rose's answer, too. "The Jedi trained children, correct?"

Hux was having a difficult time comprehending the direction that this conversation had gone. He couldn't help but feel that he was missing a vital piece of information. 

"Yes. They had teachers and mentors from the time they were young, usually, and then became teachers themselves as adults."

"But they could still use this Force as adults?" The Aristocra's line of questioning made no sense, he thought, as he again wondered about her motivation. 

"Big time," Rose answered. "Some of the things I have seen Rey do – it's amazing."

At this point, Hux could not help but interject, "you seem extremely knowledgeable about Force users, Aristocra." He allowed his suspicion to show in his tone, though he said nothing inappropriate. 

"I have always been curious about Lesser Space and its inhabitants, General. It is one of the reasons I am your liaison on Sposia," Latros countered smoothly. Hux heard the subtext – she was not as xenophobic as many of the other Chiss. 

Turning to Rose, she smiled, "you've given me much to think about, my dear. Thank you. Please look around longer." Latros paused before adding with a wink, "and let me know if you see any other artifacts that deserve more attention."

Rose did indeed. As did Hux – more familiar than her with the technology from the High Republic era. By the time they departed, techs were working on moving several artifacts back into the vaults for further study.

"Did you enjoy yourself, mhaira?" Hux asked after Latros and Rea left their temporary accommodations, and Gaia had been put to bed with Milli. Snuggled against Hux by the courtyard fire again, she yawned before answering, "I did. Thank you."

Once again, he questioned how he could ever let them go. 

And how could he not?

~~

Hux continued to vacillate over the next two days, convinced of sending them away one moment only to change his mind the next. He had been short tempered, annoyed and impatient at his own indecision. 

He was soldier enough to admit that Rose currently held the high ground – she had the advantage here on Sposia. The deceptive calm and hours with his family were continual reminders of what Rose thought they could have together.

"Why are you mad, papa?"

Gaia's question interrupted the unceasing argument he was having with himself. Thankfully. 

"I'm not, ta'ima," Hux assured his daughter. "I'm simply trying to imagine what could possibly be taking your mother so long." It had been hours since Connix and Lieutenant Stynnix whisked Rose away to prepare for the gala. At this rate, they would be unconscionably late.

"Kay Kay said 'beauty takes time' and Lu Lu said that 'you can't rush perfection,'" Gaia told him with the authority of a four-year-old.

"Oh, when did they say that, ta'ima?"

"The last time you sent me to tell them to hurry up. And they said you better not send me back again."

"That's right, Gigi," the Motto woman laughed. She was sitting with Hux, Gaia, Lieutenant Mitaka, and Milli as they waited for Rose's appearance. "A General should never send his soldiers to the Front if he's not willin' to go himself."

Hux's attention turned to the older woman and replied haughtily, "do not presume to lecture me on military strategy, madam."

"Mami." Gaia's hushed voice, filled with awe, pulled his focus back in her direction, and he found Rose standing in the room's entrance.

Fuck.

She stood there, looking around nervously and biting her lip. Hux immediately grabbed his cane and stood, walking closer until he was within arm's reach.

"Well?" Rose's question seemed directed at everyone in the room, despite how her eyes stayed on Hux, trying to discern his opinion. 

"You look…"

Like a dream.  

A dream he never knew he had.

"Ridiculous, I know," she finished for him with a nervous laugh, causing Hux to frown.

"Hush," he admonished. "No. You look…like the sun."

It did sound a bit ridiculous when he said it aloud, Hux acknowledged to himself. But he was, quite simply, at a loss for words at the vision Rose presented. 

He had seen her in coveralls, in uniforms, and in civilian clothing. She had never looked more beautiful than now – and he had thought she could never look better than she had in that stolen First Order uniform.

Her gown was a column of sheer yellow fabric – saved from being transparent by the metallic thread work covering it. The high neckline, almost reaching her ears, and short sleeved yellow cape provided an illusion of modesty for the gown. Her hair had been pulled into an elegant, raised braid from crown to nape, and she wore small gemstones in her ears.

"So it hurts to look at me? Thanks!" Rose, again, laughed nervously, and he could see how self conscious she felt. How could she not recognize how beautiful she was?

He stepped closer, smoothing out his formal uniform, conscious of the cane he leaned upon.

"Many ancient cultures worshipped their suns," he told her softy. "Some still do."

"You're not religious," she reminded him, in the same quiet tone, as though they were the only ones in the room.

"I simply never found anything worthy enough to worship before."

Their attention was pulled from each other when Gaia exclaimed, "you look like a princess, mami." She then reached out and stroked the cape's velvety material reverently. 

At that, Rose finally smiled, leaning down to her daughter and telling her, "I knew a princess once, and she was really beautiful. And very kind. So that is the nicest compliment I could get."

"You knew a real princess?" Gaia was clearly astonished at this revelation. Her eyes grew wide and shone in a similar fashion to the time she learned her father once had a cat.

"Yep. She even gave me these," Rose confirmed, pointing to the earrings.  "I have so many stories to tell you about her once you're a little older." The last was said with a rueful smile, reminding him that Leia Organa had lived a 'colorful' life.

"Did she find a prince?"

"Even better – she found a pirate." Gaia looked delighted, and Hux determined then and there that his daughter would never hear that story. She did not need ideas. A pirate, indeed.

As they said goodnight a few moments later, Rose turned to Motto. "I wish you would have accepted Garrik's invitation and come."

"Not my crowd, Rosie. Besides, Gigi and me are gonna have our own party," she added with a nod to the girl. "You kids have fun and tell Gary to behave himself."

Rose continued fidgeting throughout the trip across the bay with Lieutenant Mitaka and Connix until her friend reached over and patted Rose's arm. "Leia would be so proud of you."

The comment seemed to calm Rose, and Hux was grateful to the woman. Perhaps she was acceptable for his lieutenant, after all. 

They arrived at a tiny island located on the other end of the bay. The island was almost completely taken up by a pavilion, the walls almost entirely composed of a clear, transpirateel-like material. It was constructed of the fluid lines that most Sposian structures utilized, and the building's shape and design made him think of waves.

As he assisted Rose off the boat, she looked at the crowd and murmured, "I feel sick."

"Pre-battle jitters." He knew his comment worked when exasperation replaced fear in her eyes.

They entered to find the interior spaces already quite full – the majority of the attendees were members of the Syndicure, Defense Fleet Command, or Family representatives. Only the Supreme Council and a small number of select officers were present for the First Order. 

It was an intentional reminder by the Chiss that the Ascendancy was larger and more powerful than the Order. Hux merely smirked – he had gotten quite used to these types of displays over the weeks of negotiations. The Chiss needed to believe they entered into any situation from a position of power. 

Spying Aristocra Latros across the room, Hux guided Rose in that direction.

He felt Rose's hand tense on his arm. "Everyone is staring at me," she hissed. 

He looked around the room to find that a large number of the guests were doing just that. Only he saw what Rose didn’t. The First Order officers were almost unanimously looking at Rose with pride and admiration. The Chiss, too, seemed to be approving in their glances. 

"Do you know why they are looking at you?" he asked. "Gaia was wrong earlier, you know. You don't look like a princess – they look at you and they see a queen. An empress."

"I don't want to be an empress."

"And that, dear one, is why they smile as they're looking at you."

Hux regretted his generous interpretation of the attendees' glances later that evening as he watched yet another Chiss male dancing with Rose. After the initial introductions and mingling, she had been coaxed to dance earlier by Captain Yarev. To Hux's annoyance, she had not stopped since.

He had never been jealous, at least romantically, when it came to Rose. Possessive? Certainly. Jealous? No.

Even though they never discussed such things in the early days of their entanglement, he had never even thought to question Rose's fidelity. That simply wasn't who she was. And since reuniting with her, there had been no need – no one in the Order would dare approach her inappropriately. 

His mind refused to consider the years in between when Rose had thought him dead. 

Yet, here, as he watched the Chiss males, and some females, flirt with Rose, he was most certainly jealous. Jealous that someone other than he was holding her and twirling her around the room. Jealous that someone else was touching her. Laughing with her. 

While he stood watching like a pathetic fool with a lame leg.

Once again, his determination to send her away wavered. Would she find someone else? A lover for herself and a father for Gaia. His chest hurt at the thought.

But, certainly, their safety was more important than his happiness. He was a survivor – had always been – adapting to whatever situation he found himself in – even Sunspot Prison. He could do so again. 

Except that Rose had taught him how to do more than merely survive. She had gentled him with warm blankets, good meals, and affectionate pats. No better than a fox, he thought. How could he go back to mere survival?

"Your wife is quite popular tonight, General Hux." He turned to find Aristocra Latros standing next to him, watching the dancers.

"Indeed."

If she heard the bitterness in his voice, she chose to ignore it. "The Chaff seem particularly taken with her, it seems."

Hux studied the dancers and guests close to Rose. The Aristocra was correct – he recalled that a number of her dance partners displayed the Chaff family colors on their uniforms and robes. 

And the Chaff family color was yellow. Like Rose's dress.

"You sent her to a Chaff designer for the gown?" Hux was surprised – the Ruling Families were notoriously competitive with each other. 

"I did," she confirmed. 

The Chaff had been the most prominent holdouts in the treaty negotiations – of the four Ruling Families, they were the most reluctant. More minor families, allied with the Chaff, had followed suit, slowing down the process as they quibbled over details. 

Hux took his attention from Rose and looked around, finding the Chaff Patriarch sitting at one of the tables on the other side of the dance floor. The Patriarch acknowledged Hux's attention with a nod before turning back to the other Chaff at his table. 

"It appears that the Chaff will no longer block the negotiations, General," Latros observed with a knowing smile.

Within the competitive Chiss society, the Chaff could laud Rose's choice of gown as a tribute to their family, increasing their status even more.

"Indeed."

Once again, Hux found himself both grateful to an ally as well as in awe of Rose's ability, even unknowingly, to build bridges.

"Do not underestimate your own influence and importance, though. The Ascendancy has decided to ally with you, General, just as much as with the First Order."

Hux knew. And that's why, as much as he might wish otherwise, his destiny was to remain with the Order and ensure a peaceful galaxy for his family.

His fate was a trap of his own making.

"You place a great deal of faith in me,  Aristocra."

"You remind me of someone," came the older Chiss' ambiguous reply. 

"If you'll excuse me for a moment." At Latros' nod, Hux walked away from the dance floor – he simply could not watch Rose dance with one more partner without taking action and yanking her away. Which he certainly could not do – appearances and etiquette were almost as important to the Chiss as to the Order.

He found himself on a balcony overlooking the water. He inhaled the salt air and tried to relax his neck and shoulders – they had become increasingly more tense with every partner Rose danced with. It seemed a lost cause until he heard a voice behind him.

"Here you are. Is everything alright?" He turned to find Rose emerging onto the balcony. 

"I thought you were dancing," he responded rather than answering her query. 

"Is that what it's called?" she laughed. "I thought I was just stomping on toes."

"Then you've had terrible partners. A worthy partner wouldn't allow that – he would lead with a firm touch and guiding hand."

"I think I was trying to lead," she teased.

"You know how to dance?" Rose seemed equally surprised and intrigued by the idea.

"I did. Most officers do. Even in the military, there are events like this at times – whether for allies or to allow the troops some necessary recreation."

"Dance with me."

Rose's request caught him off guard as well as bitter, once again, over his injury.  "Can't," he reminded her, tipping the cane in her direction as proof.

"We don't have to move around – just hold me and listen to the music," she countered, coming closer until they were chest to chest.

He looked down at the hopeful expression on her face and replied snarkily, "I believe that's called standing."

He was satisfied when Rose rolled her eyes at him – he truly enjoyed her annoyed reactions. 

"Then stand with me." At that, she pulled herself close and Hux instinctively gathered her closer with his free arm. They stood there, listening to the muted music, while Rose swayed just slightly in his arms.

The moment certainly felt like a dream – a moment he would remember and cherish in the future. When he was left alone.

They stayed like that for some time – until he felt Rose shiver from the cold, and he insisted they return to the heated interior.

Some time later, Hux was speaking quietly with a circle of First Order officers, including Captain Yarev and Lieutenant Mitaka, when he heard the Connix woman exclaim nearby, "that bitch." Hux glanced at the younger woman, finding her staring murderously across the room.

Lieutenant Mitaka captured his attention immediately after, saying, "General, I think you will wish to intervene. Councilor Sindian is speaking to your wife, and she does not look pleased."

Hux followed the direction that the couple were looking. It was quite easy to spot Rose in her bright yellow gown. Most of the other attendees were garbed in uniform or formalwear in muted colors like grey, black, and navy. Only a few were dressed in brighter tones. Rose, indeed, looked like a sun with the planets revolving around her.

Even Carise, dressed in First Order red and black, seemed muted standing next to Rose.

"Pardon me," he excused himself quickly from the group.

He hurried, as dignified as possible, across the room to where the two women were locked in a heated exchange. Drawing close, he barely caught the end of Rose's last statement, "…nothing like his father."

"You really don't see it do you?" Carise mocked in her most condescending tone. "History repeats itself, my dear. You are the kitchen woman this time around – the nobody mother of his bastard.  He will send you away – you just don't belong here."

"That's enough. Leave. Now." Hux wanted nothing more than to have one of the many guards drag Carise away, but he couldn't do so with the Chiss watching. Appearances.

Carise threw one last remark at a stricken Rose before she turned and flounced away. "Remember what I told you."

"Did she upset you?" he quietly demanded. "What did she say?"

"Nothing," Rose demurred, refusing to make eye contact. "Just her usual venom."

"I'm afraid the treaty has only made her worse. She has done all she could to obstruct and delay it. I'm certain she's partly responsible for the Chaff family's reluctance, though you seem to have overcome that tonight."

"How?"

He explained Latros' intervention and the gown's impact. Rose didn't laugh as expected, though, merely nodding at the information. 

He continued, hoping to ease her mind about Carise, "her prejudice and arrogance have become increasingly toxic to the Council. I am working on having her voted off and removed from any decision-making."

Again, Rose's response was noncommittal, and she remained quiet, her glow diminished, the rest of the evening.

Even though she fell asleep on his shoulder as the boat carried them back across the bay, he sensed a distance from her. An uncertainty that hadn't been present before her conversation with Carise.

Back at their lodgings, Rose barely said a word as she checked on Gaia and changed into her night clothes. She said a simple, 'night' before slipping into bed and falling asleep. 

He was still sitting at the table the next morning with Gaia and Motto, sipping his cooling tea, when Rose finally emerged from their bedroom. His meetings weren't scheduled until later that day as most of them were with attendees from last night. Like Rose, they were likely sleeping in. 

He hadn't wanted to leave before assuring himself that she was alright – and over whatever ugliness Carise had spewed the night before. 

Looking up from his datapad, he noted that she still looked tired – even more so than last night if that were possible. Still beautiful, though. Always beautiful.

He briefly thought of the earrings from General Organa that she had worn the night before. He resolved to buy her more jewelry to complement and remind her of her own beauty. She would balk, of course, but he would tell her it was important to have pieces she could pass on to Gaia. 

Children should inherit more than just their parents' flaws.

"Mami!"

"Mornin', Rosie. Want some breakfast? I can make eggs," the older woman offered.

Rose wrinkled her nose in disgust, and Hux could empathize. Even if he could eat eggs, he would not – he despised the texture.

"Just toast," Rose croaked, her voice strained, as she sat at the table.

She hadn't made eye contact with him yet – her demeanor still closed off in a way that was atypical for her. Frustrated, he didn’t know what to say to counter the other woman's poisonous words.

Moments later, Motto placed a serving of toast and a cup of caf in front of her. "Had a little too much to drink last night, huh?"

Rose glared at the caf for a moment before answering, "no, I didn't drink at all, actually. It was probably all the dancing – I'm just so tired."

Hux was about to recommend that Rose return temporarily to the Dominion to be checked by the medbay doctors when she reached out, ignoring her caf, and picked up his mug of tea instead.

Tarine tea.

He watched in disbelief as she took a sip, sighed, and quickly finished the rest of the drink. Satisfied, she set the cup down and looked around. 

"Why is everyone staring at me?"

A quick glance showed that Gaia and Motto were watching Rose with equally shocked expressions.  "You just drank my tea," he replied, pointing out the obvious.

"Oh," Rose seemed surprised for a moment and then shrugged, dismissing her unusual behavior. "I don't know, I just wanted some."

"You hate Tarine tea." 

Again, obvious.

"You said dirt tastes better than papa's tea, mami."

"Rosie, the last time I saw you drink Tarine tea was five years ago."

Motto had spoken slowly and deliberately,  almost as if she was speaking to Gaia. A second later, all the color drained from Rose's face, and she looked at the older woman in alarm. Though he didn't understand the reference, Hux was immediately concerned.

"No."

"What happened five years ago?" he demanded. 

He saw Rose's and Motto's eyes swivel toward Gaia. Hux followed suit – as if the young girl would somehow have the answer. 

His four-year-old daughter merely shrugged in confusion. 

His four-year-old daughter. 

Oh.

Well, fuck.

Chapter Text

Ajan Kloss Resistance Base - One week before Exogol

Rose rushed through the Command Center, dodging soldiers and technicians, as she made her way to General Organa's makeshift quarters near the back of the limestone cave. It was basically just an alcove, but it offered the General more privacy than the sleeping quarters on the Tantive IV. With everyone sleeping on the ship in shifts, it was almost always crowded and noisy.

Rose entered to find the General at her desk, reading from a datapad. "You wanted to see me, ma'am? We're almost ready for the trip to Sinta. Poe and Finn are doing the pre-flight on the Falcon."

Leia turned, motioning Rose to sit on the bed, and placed the datapad down. She looked increasingly frail and worn lately, and Rose knew that she wasn't the only one on base concerned for the General's health.

"I don't think you should go, Rose. It’s too dangerous."

Confused, Rose argued, "Boolio wouldn't betray us, General. He's known me since I was a child - when he and my dad worked in the mines together."

"Regardless, I think you should stay here."

"But he's my contact. And it must be important or Hux wouldn't have set up the dead drop." Rose reflexively looked around to make sure no one had heard her use the spy's name. For security reasons, only she and General Organa were aware of his true identity. Seeing that no one was lingering near the General's quarters, she turned back to find the older woman looking at her in concern.

"How have you been feeling, Rose?"

Rose was taken aback by the sudden shift in topic, but promptly answered. "Fine, General."

"Rose." 

She didn't know if it was General Organa's Force sensitivity or her maternal instincts, but she clearly knew Rose was lying about feeling well.

"Tired and anxious," Rose reluctantly admitted, "just like everyone else on the base. We're all stressed."

And it was true. There was a sense of urgency on the base. A pressure building. Something had to give soon.

Hux had mentioned something similar at their final meeting on Starlight a couple weeks ago. 

No - last. Not final, she corrected herself. 

Rose had heard nothing from him since – only an encrypted message alerting her to the dead drop at Boolio's mine on Sinta. The lack of knowing was making her sick with worry.

"It's not stress," General Organa interrupted her tumultuous thoughts. "You're pregnant, my dear."

"No," Rose laughed. "No, I'm not."

"Rose."

Rose stopped laughing. General Organa looked decidedly serious as she waited for Rose to process what she said.

"No. I'm just…"

"Tired? Nauseous? Emotional?" General Organa ticked off the symptoms that Rose had been experiencing increasingly for the past few months. She had attributed them all to anxiety and being overworked, though. Stressed about the war and Hux.

Rose sat there, realization dawning, as she calculated dates and analyzed the facts. 

"Fuck the Force."

"I don't think the Force is the father, Rose. At least, not this time." General Organa smiled wryly, amused by some joke only she appeared to understand. 

"But I can't be," she insisted, still trying to deny the obvious truth.

She had an implant. She was almost certain Hux did as well. How could both of them fail? The odds were infinitesimal. Then she remembered – the ion storm. She had briefly worried about it at the time, but then Hux was inside her and she didn't think, couldn't think, about anything else. 

"And yet you are," the older woman interrupted Rose's spiraling thoughts once more. "The Force will find a way. I presume General Hux is the father?"

Though the General's voice held no judgment, Rose feared she had let down the brave woman. She had given herself to the enemy – a man responsible for the deaths of billions.

Responsible, too, for the life of one, apparently. 

"You must think I'm a terrible person." Rose couldn't imagine what her friends would think. Each and every one of them hated General Hux. They had reason to. 

Rose waited for the condemnation. She knew she deserved it – she had crossed a line.

"I think you are extraordinary," the General said instead, shocking Rose. "You've always reminded me of a woman I knew as a child. Tala was brave and caring just like you, and she too knew the value of individual lives. You have a heart like hers, and I believe you should trust it."

How could you trust your heart when all your reason said it loved the wrong man? 

Yes. Loved. 

Just as much as she had been in denial about the pregnancy, Rose had refused to acknowledge that she did, in fact, love Hux. 

She had naively promised herself she could love him one day. After the war. After he had redeemed himself. She had some ridiculous, childish notion that he would become 'Good', and then she could embrace him and admit her feelings without guilt. Without censure by her friends. 

That he could 'earn' her love along with the galaxy's forgiveness. 

But the truth was that she already loved him. The complicated and flawed man that he was. 

The man. Oh.

Oh no.

"He's going to hate me." The words slipped from her mouth as soon as the panicked thought appeared in her mind.

"I very much doubt that, dear."

Rose didn't. Hux had never once shown any interest in children. He barely spoke about his own childhood as it was. She had the distinct impression that he intended for the Hux name to die with him.

"I don't think he even wants children. You should hear the stories about his own father."

"Don't confuse antipathy with fear."

Hux, afraid? He never seemed to fear anything. Rose, however, was afraid. Very much so.

"I don't know how to be a mother, General."

"Motherhood isn't defined by how much you know, but by how much you love. And, Rose, I don't know anyone who loves as fiercely as you do. The rest will come."

General Organa's confidence calmed Rose's racing heart. She could figure this out. Together, she and Hux could handle it. Couldn't they?

"What do I say to Hux?"

"Congratulations?" The General's joke fell flat as Rose's mind raced once again. She and Hux were in a communications blackout except for emergencies. Surely this counted as one.

"I'll send him a coded message," she decided. At the General's skeptical look, she revisited that idea immediately. "No? Yeah, you're right. I'll let him know we need to meet – as soon as they get back from this Mustafar mission and he can get away. Then I'll tell him."

She would wait and tell him in person – for better or worse. She would tell him about the pregnancy. That she loved him. That she wanted a future for them. With him.

The next time she saw him, she promised herself. 

Rose hadn't known there wouldn't be a next time.

~~

No.

She could hear Leia's voice in her head – tired, nauseous, emotional – as she sat, staring at her daughter. Proof that those symptoms were not simply manifestations of stress.

Rose had convinced herself that she was just anxious and worried. Because, really, how?

It wasn’t like she or Hux were ignorant. They were intelligent people – surely they could handle birth control. 

Hux.

She glanced at him to find that he was also looking at Gaia. Their daughter simply sat there, mouth full of berries, and shrugged at her papa. Rose could see the exact second realization struck.

His head whipped back to Rose suddenly, and he scrutinized her face before dipping down her torso. As if he was looking for physical changes that had not been there minutes before. Finally, his gaze returned to her eyes.

"Rose?"

Before she could even think of any words to respond, Peli began laughing. Not nervous laughter. Or polite laughter. No. Laughter from her belly that left her wheezing and breathless as the rest of the table stared at her incredulously. 

When she could finally speak, several minutes later, it was as if Peli had heard Rose's thoughts moments ago.  "Whoa, boy. Well, Red, either you're more potent than that tea of yours or you two are the dumbest smart people I ever met."

"What is it?" her daughter demanded. Or Rose thought that's what Gaia said – the little girl's mouth was still full of food.

At this, Peli stood and grabbed the child's hand, "C'mon Gigi – your folks need to talk."

"But-"

Peli interrupted her protest, tugging the obviously reluctant child behind her. "Let's take Milli outside to play."

Moments later, the outer door opened and closed, leaving Rose and Hux alone in the house.

"Rose-"

"No." She didn't know who she was responding to – the universe or Hux.  Her instinct was, unusually for Rose, flight in that moment. She stood quickly and rushed to their room in an attempt to escape. Again, she wasn't sure what she was running from – the knowledge or the man.

Hux, however, clearly had no intention of letting her do so. Moments later, he limped into the bedroom, his face inscrutable. And it made Rose angry.

Just once, she wanted to see his reaction. She wanted to see surprise or anger or fear. Or anything. She was feeling all of that and more, and it was unfair that he was so calm. She was so kriffing tired of his stubborn self-control.

"Mhaira-"

"You don't have an implant?" Rose lashed out, her tone both accusing and incredulous. She knew she wasn't being fair, but she didn't care. She wanted him to react.

Rose was so tired of the uncertainty. Hux could hold her and say beautiful things while, at the same time, planning to send her away. If he really loved her, surely he would fight to keep them together. Maybe he didn't say it – not because he couldn't say the words – but because he didn't feel them.

Maybe Carise was right last night, an ugly voice whispered – he was just using her and would inevitably get bored.

Maybe she was just another kitchen woman.

Hux interrupted her spiraling thoughts with a sarcastic reply – a reaction to her anger. "Not exactly an essential in prison." His jaw was clenched, and his eyes burned into her own.

Good. She wanted a fight.

"And you didn't think to get one after we joined the fleet?" she continued, her voice rising, as she built her case against him.

"What about you? Why don't you have one?" Exasperated, he threw her own accusations back at her. 

Fuck him for being so rational, she thought. Rose was in no mood for logic. She wanted hysterics and yelling and crying – things that mothers - especially single mothers - were rarely allowed. She wanted to rile Hux into a screaming match so they could finally - finally - just be done with it. 

A part of Rose felt like she had been running after Hux for months, arms outstretched, begging him to pick her. To love her. To want her enough to leave the Order and be a family. 

She wanted to be his choice.

In her saner moments, she understood his reasons, though she didn't agree with them. 

But this was not one of those moments. 

She was tired and anxious and insecure. And, apparently, pregnant. The stress of the last weeks, months really, had finally caught up with Rose. 

Hux back from the dead. Gaia's abduction. The First Order. The uncertainty. It had all come to a head last night with Carise's poison words.

She was taut – one more tug and she would surely snap.

"I was pregnant, asshole!" She spat out her defense, caught up in the storm of emotions raging inside her. "Then breastfeeding, then raising a child. You don't need an implant when you don't have any kind of social life."

"You weren't with anyone else? All those years?"

She was too preoccupied with her own anger to see all of Hux's almost instantly disappear, replaced by a barely concealed look of shock.

"Of course not," she replied, her voice still irate. "I had a child to raise. A business to run. I had no time, and there weren't a lot of options on Tatooine anyway, and even if there were…" 

Rose trailed off as she finally processed Hux's reaction. He looked caught between surprise and disbelief.

Don't confuse antipathy with fear.

She recalled Leia's warning as Hux stepped closer. But he didn't seem afraid either.  It was Rose, herself, she realized, projecting her reactions onto him. Wanting to be angry at him so she wouldn't have to feel her own fear.

…the kitchen woman…his bastard…he'll get rid of you too…

"And even if there were, what?"

Rose's temper calmed as she studied the look in his eyes. She could see no anger. No regret. Just hope. An emotion she'd never associated with Hux before. To him, she knew, hope was a weakness. A vulnerability.

So Rose had always tried to have enough for both of them. And, quite frankly, she was exhausted. Her parents' dreams, her sister's convictions, Hux's hope – they weighed so much and she had carried them for so long.

But maybe she wouldn't have to anymore. At least, not alone.

"They wouldn't have been you," she confessed, tears filling her eyes. "They could never be you." Rose took a deep breath, attempting to blink away the tears, and tried to quell her emotions before she finished. "You weren't the only one trapped in a prison the last five years. Mine just didn't have walls."

At that, Hux reached for her and pulled her close. He held her, face pressed to his chest, as he gently rubbed the back of her neck, his cool hand a relief on her hot skin.

His racing heart told her he was not as unaffected as he seemed. After several minutes, she felt his lips press against the top of her head, and he murmured, "this changes things."

"What do you mean?" she asked, pulling back to see his face.

"We need to get you and Gaia away from the First Order as soon as possible. Carise and Opan are dangerous. I need you to be somewhere safe," he insisted.

So they were back to this. Again. 

Why was this Hux's answer to everything? 

"We're safe with you."

"It's too risky for you and the a'lora."

Rose's anger returned with his obstinacy, and she wanted to scream. "I can take care of myself," she argued. She would not be treated like some fragile piece of glass. "Being pregnant does not make me an invalid. I survived Exogol, didn't I?"

At the sudden expression of horror on his face, she realized that she had never told him that she had been physically present at the final battle.

Oh, fuck.

It hadn't been deliberate subterfuge on her part. Not completely, at least. Rose, herself, didn't want to revisit that last, desperate battle. She certainly tried to never talk about it. To even think about it. Some things were just too painful. 

Hux's horrified expression was almost immediately replaced by one so angry, she literally took a step back. Rose had not seen him look this enraged since that first meeting on the Supremacy. 

Had she really wanted him to lose his self control a few minutes ago? 

Be careful what you wish for.

"You fought at Exogol?" he practically shouted, reminding Rose of the old holorecordings of his propaganda speeches. But he had never raised his voice to her before. Ever. He had always been strangely calm and gentle with her – even when she was captured on the Supremacy. Well, at least, until she bit him.

"You said General Organa didn't allow you on dangerous missions at the end. Was that a lie? Where were you in the battle?" 

The last question was spoken very slowly and very deliberately, his rage barely suppressed. Rose took another careful step back before answering. 

"I was with the landing party," she admitted reluctantly. Perhaps he didn't know what that meant. She hoped he didn't. 

"You mean the atmospheric charge on the Steadfast?"

Of course he knew.

"The outer hull assault? The one on orbaks? With the deserters? You mean that landing party?" 

By the time he was finished with his clarifications, Hux's face was red and his voice strained as he clearly tried to keep himself from yelling at her again.

"I wasn't actually on an orbak," she countered, as if that fact might make her actions less egregious to him. "And if I hadn't been there to help Kaydel after she was shot…" Rose trailed off at the murderous look in his eyes, suddenly aware that she should probably not have mentioned injuries.

His hand tightened on his cane as if he was debating whether to throw it across the room or slam it on the floor. She wasn't concerned about physical violence. Never had been with Hux. But his anger at the moment was a tangible thing - she could feel its presence in the room - and it fed her own tension. 

Pulling her even more taut.

"Why would you endanger yourself like that, Rose? What the fuck were you thinking? How could you do something so idiotic? What could have been more important than keeping our child safe?"

His voice had escalated, growing louder, with each question. 

Finally, the line snapped.

"You!" 

Hux stilled at her outburst.

And, suddenly, Rose was back on the Steadfast's hull, dodging laserfire and Sith troopers. Believing Hux was somewhere in the Destroyer. Looking desperately for a way into the ship. A way to rescue him.

"You, dummy! I didn't know what happened to you. I only knew Finn had shot you when you helped them escape." Tears started flowing freely down Rose's face as she recalled the terror she felt in the battle. "I thought…I thought there might be a way to board and find you. S-save you. But it was chaos and we were pushed back…"

The thousands of ships, of every make, battling with the Destroyers. The Sith troopers. The electrical bursts that she later learned had been Force Lightning. 

Chaos.

And, then, their retreat.

"Finn! The Lander's leaving."

"Go without us. We're taking this entire ship down."

"What? How?"

"We're gonna hit the command deck."

"Rose, please, go."

"Rose."

"Rose."

"Rose." It took a moment for her to realize it was Hux saying her name and not Kaydel and Beaumont urging her to board the Lander.

It had been the absolute worst moment of Rose's life. When her parents died, when Paige was killed – there had been no forewarning – nothing she could have done to stop it. But, there, standing on the Steadfast's outer hull, she had believed that Hux was still on board and alive. And that one of her best friends was about to destroy the ship and kill him.

And she had to let him. 

Because they couldn't allow the fleet to escape. It would mean the deaths of trillions. So she chose her cause over her lover. Over the father of her child.

And she had hated herself for it.

All of her talk about saving what you love. And, in the end, she didn't. Couldn't. 

She had wanted to stay and die with him. But then she thought of the baby – that she could still keep something of his if she survived. A piece of him. So she boarded the Fortitude and watched through the viewport as the Steadfast exploded. As Hux died.

Or so she had believed.

Beaumont and Kaydel and the other soldiers thought she was crying for fear of Finn's safety. For the other Resistance fighters who lost their lives.

They had no idea that her heart was breaking.

That all she could think was that she had never told him she loved him. Never told him about the baby. And now, she never could.

Rose blamed herself – she had allowed the Resistance to kill the man she loved. The person who had warned them of Palpatine and his Sith fleet, saving trillions of lives, possibly the galaxy.

Who cared why? Hux’s motivations were as complicated as the man himself. What mattered were the lives of all he saved.

And no one would ever know. A mere handful of people knew what Hux had done. And each had their own reasons for never telling.

Back on Ajan Kloss, Chewbacca had embraced her, understanding the bittersweet combination of grief and victory. He, too, was mourning quietly as everyone around them cheered. As was Rey. They had won, but the cost was almost unbearable. 

Even as people held small memorials for lost comrades and friends, Rose had to keep her grief to herself. You didn't mourn the enemy.

Later, when Rey asked if she wanted to travel to Tatooine with her, Rose had jumped at the chance. Not only would it be easier to keep her pregnancy a secret, but she could also get away from the beings - the friends - who had killed Hux.

Rose had claimed that her withdrawal from the galaxy had simply been to protect Gaia. But that was only part of it. She also wanted to hide because she couldn't stand to be near the people culpable for Hux's death.

She couldn't, however, hide from herself. 

And she was just as responsible. Rose hadn't simply been a witness to Hux's death. She had, by action and inaction, contributed to it.

She swore that she would never make that choice again. She would listen to Leia and never allow anything to come before the people she loved again.

She hadn't saved Hux, but she could save his child. At any cost. 

Rose had lived with that guilt for months. She despised herself for that choice. It was only after Gaia was born that she had finally received a report detailing the accounts of Hux's death at the hands of Pryde and listing him as MIA and Presumed Dead. She supposed she should have felt comforted - he hadn't been killed when his ship was destroyed. But she didn't. 

Dead was dead.

And either way, he died because of the Resistance. Because of her.

Rose spent five years living with that guilt. Pasting on a bright smile so others wouldn't worry. Refusing to let her daughter see her sadness. She hadn’t even realized how much it had eaten away at her until Poe's confession.

He's alive, Rose.

He wasn't dead. He was here. With her and Gaia. And another child on the way.

"And I would do it again. I will do it again if I have to," she vehemently assured him as she tried to wipe the tears away. It was a lost cause, though. That moment, believing that she allowed Hux to die, had come a hair's breadth from breaking her. Just the echo of that pain almost brought her to her knees. She couldn't go through that again.

Yet, here she was. Finding out she was pregnant. Being sent away. History was repeating itself. 

She wouldn't survive it. Not this time. 

"Please, Armitage," she begged. "I thought I let you die. Don't make me go through that again. I can't lose you again."

He pulled her into his arms once again. "You won't have to," he assured her. He was silent for several moments before she felt him take a deep breath. Then he said, "we'll leave together. We'll go."

"We?" Had she heard him correctly? Rose held her breath as she waited for his answer.

"We. I missed Gaia's birth. I won't miss the a'lora's." He nudged her face up, wiping the tears away with his thumb. "But I need to see the treaty finalized first – it's the best chance for the Order. For peace. After that, we'll leave."

Finally.

Her family together. Safe. No First Order. No Coalition. 

It was everything Rose had wanted.

So, then, why wasn't she happy?

~~

That night, as Rose lay in bed, she reflected on her unexpected reaction. Hux lay behind her, his beard tickling the nape of her neck and his hand cradling her stomach and the a'lora, as he called it.

Rose had asked Peli what the Arkinasian term meant earlier, and the older woman had smiled approvingly as she answered. 

Dream child.

Rose, too, smiled at the endearment, aware that only a few people in the galaxy knew what a sentimental idiot the great General Hux could be. 

But he wouldn't be General for much longer. They had spent some time that morning discussing plans before Hux had to leave for more negotiations. He had initially argued for sending her and Gaia away immediately. He would join them as soon as the treaty was signed, he assured her.

Rose quickly nixed that idea – the last time they were separated, they didn't see each other for five years. She would not risk it.

Eventually, Hux agreed that they could wait. It should only be a few more days. In the meantime, they would carry on as usual to avoid raising any suspicion. 

He insisted, though, that Rose visit the medbay on the Dominion to make sure everything was fine with the pregnancy. Medical confidentiality would ensure that the news did not spread.

She spoke with Peli, and the older woman was adamant that she would accompany them when they fled. They would wait and send an encrypted message to Garrik once they were gone so he could maintain plausible deniability. Hux also argued that the Order would need the Captain's calm guidance and leadership once their escape was discovered. 

Hux did speak with Dopheld, though, who assured them that he and Kaydel would leave as well. Apparently, their fake relationship had become quite a real one, and Rose couldn't be happier for them. 

Doph's kindness and gentleness brought peace to Kaydel, while her adventurous nature added life to his own. 

The other couple would return to the Dominion with Rose and discreetly begin preparations for leaving. They could pack everyone's belongings as well as ready the ship from Takodana for their escape.

No one was deluded enough to think the Supreme Council would just let them leave – especially Carise Sindian. Rose knew that Hux saw Carise and Commander Opan as loose ends that would be dangerous to both the Order and his family if not dealt with. 

He did not want to leave them in positions of any authority. Thus, he was feverishly working to have her removed from the Council and to find the evidence of Opan's guilt before their departure. The small group of remaining Expansionists would be adrift without those two.

He wanted to leave the First Order in as strong and stable a position as possible. His worry about that was evident. She knew that the Ascendancy and the Council relied on his leadership of the Order. It pained him, but he had chosen her. Had chosen their family.

Whether they ended up on Eiram or some uncharted planet in Wild Space, they would be together. 

The four of them. Rose was still processing that fact. She just kept thinking that it was strange that it didn't feel…strange. Perhaps her life had taken so many improbable turns that nothing could shock her anymore. And having another child felt right. For her. For their family. 

And, yet, Rose lay there, secure in her lover's arms, filled with unexpected and unwelcome doubt. She desperately wished for her mother's or sister's guidance. Or for Rey or Leia to tell her she was doing the right thing. 

As her thoughts spiraled, she felt Hux kiss the nape of her neck before he murmured, "go to sleep."

"How did you know I wasn't asleep?"

"You weren't kicking me. It will be there tomorrow. Sleep." Rose almost pointed out the irony of Hux telling her to sleep, but she realized that he actually had been sleeping well lately. And eating. He had become, for Hux, quite content.

In truth, so had she. They had managed to create a little sanctuary for their family over the past months together in the First Order fleet. But would they be able to keep it?

Or would they always be hiding? Running? She knew it was impossible to truly escape war. Far flung planets like Hays Minor and Jakku were no safer than Chandrila or Coruscant. Even the Unknown Regions had its wars. So could they ever, really, be safe?

Rose continued to think about those questions as she traveled to the Dominion with Kaydel and Doph the next day. Kaydel was in charge of readying their gear and the ship, while Doph attempted to wrap up the investigations regarding Opan and Carise.

"Are you happy?" her friend asked quietly, trying not to be overheard by the security officers that Hux had insisted accompany Rose.

It was a harder question than it should have been. 

Instead of answering, she asked Kaydel, "are you?"

Her friend glanced towards the shuttle's bridge where Doph was overseeing the crew before answering. "I know I sound insane but yes. Very."

"Not insane at all. If anyone understands, I do."

"I've never met anyone like him. Doph's always patient and kind – there's not a cynical bone in his body. I think I'd even stay with the First Order for him."

"Now, that does sound insane."

"I know. But I spent the last few months with a lot of the younger officers – my fake husband didn't scare them off like yours did. They're not...evil. Barely even horrible," she joked before, again, turning serious. "More like Lusica and Doph than Opan, you know? I think I finally started to get what Leia meant about people being more important than a side. Even a side you hated," Kaydel explained. "And Hux was leading them in a different direction."

Was. 

Rose noted the past tense. Who knew what the First Order would do once Hux was gone? Whether the Expansionists would surge back into power, pushing again for war with the Coalition. 

Rose thought about Kaydel's words as she visited the medbay. As all the First Order personnel she passed on the way nodded in acknowledgement. Some even smiled and greeted her despite the intimidating presence of Hux's guards.

She thought about her friend's words as the doctor confirmed the pregnancy and drew samples for genetic testing – to ascertain the health of Rose and the child.

She had lived with these people. Gotten to know a number of them. Even worked with some. They weren't the enemy. 

Not anymore.

Was this what Leia was talking about when she said to choose people over ideology? That you had to see beings and not uniforms? Faces instead of flags?

Love is the only thing that can save the galaxy.  

Deep in her thoughts, Rose had a moment of disquiet when she practically bumped into Commander Opan outside the medbay. Her unease increased when she noticed him again in the docking bay as she boarded the shuttle back to Sposia. But he didn't try to engage her either time.

She forgot about him completely when her datapad chimed just as her shuttle approached the planet. Glancing down, she noted the message from the Dominion medbay. 

The doctor had sent her the genetic test results as promised, though much sooner than she had anticipated. The Order's technological capabilities certainly surpassed the basic prenatal care she had on Tatooine. 

Opening the file, she scanned the information. Her health was fine despite some minor vitamin and mineral imbalances. She then read the genetic report of the baby – unsurprised by any of the results. 

Until she reached the last line. 

Oh.

Chapter Text

See you then, Rose.

Paige's voice echoed in her head as Rose stared out at the water. It had been her sister's habit to say those words before every mission or battle. They were also the last words she had said to Rose.

An assurance. A promise. Unkept.

Rose had just agreed to serve on Vice Admiral Holdo's Ninka – her first ever assignment away from Paige – as they raced to aid in the D'Qar evacuation. Until then, Rose had refused any assignment that didn't include her sister. At Paige's encouragement, though, she had finally stepped out of her big sister's shadow.

See you then, Rose.

But she hadn't. She had never seen Paige again.

As she looked out onto the water, Rose once again wished her sister was with her. Wondered what Paige would have thought of Sposia and its stark beauty.

Rose felt her head tilt back in an instinctual reflex - her body unconsciously looking for something that her mind knew was gone. From her first toddled steps away from her sister's arms, she had spent her life looking back for her. Seeking Paige's reaction and approval. 

She would have loved the sea, Rose thought. A whole world happening beneath the waves. Unbothered by the beings on land with their self-made problems and manufactured arguments. Until, at some point, those problems spilled over.

They always did.

And, then, there was no place to hide. Nowhere to run.

Hearing footfalls coming closer, Rose's head once again tilted back. This time, not looking for her sister but for him. 

She already knew it was Hux – the guards would not have allowed anyone else this close. Indeed, he was walking across the sand and rocks towards her as she stood at the water's edge.

"What's wrong?" he asked as he drew close. "Motto said you had been out here for hours. Are you well? Is it the a'lora?"

Rose turned to face him – noting that he was slightly out of breath and his appearance was disheveled. He must have rushed down at Peli's remark, and she hastened to assure him.

"No. We're fine. She's fine."

"She?"

He looked just as surprised as Rose had been when she saw the baby's sex in the genetic results. The First Order's medical resources were quite advanced – more so than much of the rest of the galaxy. 

"Yeah," she confirmed, watching for his reaction. So far, he had given no indication that he had a preference, but when his eyes softened and that almost-smile flashed across his face, she knew he was happy. Almost immediately, though, he switched to a look of concern.

"You're not pleased?"

"I am," she hastily assured him. "I love that Gaia will have a sister. Like I did."

And she did. It was her first thought on finding out the child's sex. 

It was her second thought that had sent her spiraling. Seeking solitude to deal with questions she had never allowed to surface before.

"Then what's wrong? Why are you out here?" 

"I just needed to think." She paused, trying to find the words to articulate her feelings. Never a wordsmith, Rose wasn't quite sure how to explain, but she tried. "When I saw that it was a girl, I realized Gaia will be five years older than her sister – same as me and Paige. And, then, it just hit me."

She paused, gathering her thoughts and recalling the moment in the shuttle.

Five years. Gaia. Paige. Oh.

"It's been over five years since Paige died," she explained, still feeling the shock from her realization.  "And I'm older than my big sister ever got to be."

She tried to keep her voice steady, but he must have heard her distress, as he stepped closer, his arms embracing her. Rose rested her head on his chest and was comforted by the steady beat of his heart. She took several steadying breaths, but, ultimately, the tears won.

How could she describe that moment? The sudden revelation that she was no longer the baby sister. Even with Paige gone, that label had still been so much a part of who she was and how she thought about herself. Rose had always just taken it for granted - her being the little sister was an immutable fact - like gravity. The realization that it was gone had shaken her badly. 

And made her think.

Made her question other perceptions and beliefs. 

She didn't know if he would understand, but she had to try. Hux would never accept her decision if he didn't understand how she had come to it. Wiping her tears and snot unapologetically on his uniform, she took a deep breath and continued. 

"I just can't square it, you know – how am I older than my older sister? She's always been my reference point. My guiding star. I could picture her in my head and ask what would Paige think or do? Even gone, I wanted her approval. I didn't walk in her exact footsteps, but we shared the same path, if that makes any sense. And, now, that path is gone, and I have to make my own."

She was frustrated by her own rambling – her inability to explain the strange twists and turns her mind had taken over the last few hours. Careening from one realization to another.

Paige had always gone on ahead of Rose, leaving a trail for her to follow. Suddenly, Rose had realized that she was in uncharted territory - no more beacons, even imagined, to light the way. It was a terrifying thought for a baby sister. 

But also a freeing one.

She calmed when she felt Hux’s kiss on the top of her head.

"Not alone," he reminded her.

It only made the next part harder, though. She didn't want to say it - knew it was hurtful - but he needed to understand. 

"Paige hated the First Order so much. Sometimes, I think she took on all the hate and anger herself so I wouldn't have to. She wouldn't have rested until it was totally destroyed." Rose swallowed, her body tensing, before she said the worst part. "And she would have hated you. Completely. I think she would have tried, for my sake, but as long as you were with the First Order, she would have never accepted you. My sister would have always hated you."

She felt him stiffen. As if bracing himself for her rejection. 

"Mhaira-"

She wouldn't let him continue – she needed to say all of this. The tears threatened to fall once again as she stepped back so she could look in his eyes. He had to believe that she meant what she was about to say.

"But I don't. I'm not my sister, and I can't make any more choices to please her. Or her ghost." Her voice cracked at that, but she held his gaze, needing him to understand both her decision and the reasons behind it. 

"So I thought about it, and you have five years."

"Five years?" Hux's confusion was clear as he tried to decipher her meaning.

"The Coalition took five years away from you," she explained. "I'm giving them back. You have five years to fix the First Order."

"Rose-"

If anything, he looked even more confused. And, honestly, she couldn't blame him. Her decision shocked her too.  As did the realization that she had still been unconsciously living in her sister's shadow.

Her perceptions filtered through Paige's eyes. Her decisions anchored in her sister's convictions.

Trying to live for two people was impossible. She couldn't imagine the burden Leia had carried – living for an entire planet. It explained so much about the General and her decisions. But Rose wouldn't do it.

You don't understand how heavy other people's aspirations and intentions are until you set them down, Rose realized. How constrained you are by their footsteps. 

So with a silent 'see you then,' she stepped onto her own path.

"Five years," she repeated. "Success or failure - doesn't matter - we leave after five years." If Hux couldn't stabilize the Order in five years, it was a lost cause. But she wouldn't deny him, or the galaxy, that chance. 

Rose wouldn't run. She was, after all, a fighter.

Her sister had taught her that. 

It was a package deal, though – they stayed together. 

That was where Leia had been wrong. She believed that she had to choose – her family or the New Republic. So she let her family get pulled apart, and the galaxy suffered anyway. Possibly even because. That was the lesson that she had been trying to impart to Rose - turning your back on love only brought everyone closer to tragedy.

"It's not safe."

Rose wasn't surprised by Hux's reaction. He had never seriously allowed himself to entertain this possibility either. 

But she was convinced it could work. 

"Carise and Opan are the only ones who would risk going publicly against you. Especially now, with the treaty," she argued. "And you said that you're only days away from making cases against them."

"The Expansionists-"

"Will be hobbled by the treaty too. There were only a small number of them still vocal anyway. There will always be extremists. On either side. That's why the Order needs you."

He had been lightly pacing as she made her case, clearly flustered by her decision. He stopped suddenly, though, and asked one basic question. 

"Why?"

How did she explain that? 

That she loved him more than she hated the First Order? 

That she wasn't even sure she did hate the Order anymore? At least, not the people in it. That if the galaxy just stopped seeing everything as a choice between either/or and black/white, then maybe they could finally have some fucking peace?

"Have you ever wanted something really bad, but when you finally got it, you realized you didn't really want it after all?"

"No." The certainty of his denial, combined with the pointed look he leveled at her, left no doubt as to what, or really, who, he was referring to. 

"I know I'm not making much sense," she conceded.

"You said that you had to choose individuals before the cause."

"And you did. You chose us," she countered, closing the distance between them. She reached up and caressed his face and smiled for the first time in hours.  "So I'm choosing you right back. It doesn't matter where we are, Armitage. If we stay together, we'll be okay."

They talked for almost an hour. She slowly chipped away at his concerns, agreeing to all the safety protocols and contingencies he insisted were necessary. She was fairly certain he was just making them up by the end, but she agreed anyway. She believed he would become more trusting and confident as time passed - look at how far he had come in the past few months. 

Rose delineated First Order actions that would not be tolerated – preemptive attacks and child soldiers, for example – though she knew he had already moved away from those programs. But as long as his policies were Isolationist, she wouldn't interfere. 

Not publicly, at least. But she reserved the right to speak her mind in private.

Her one condition - that they not reside consistently on the Dominion during the five years - wasn’t an issue. Hux, possibly remembering his own wandering childhood, agreed that children needed to spend time planetside.

By the time they retired for the night, Hux had agreed to the five years. "But only if I am certain that you're safe – all of you. The moment I'm not, you leave. No argument."

Rose had already decided not to mention seeing Opan earlier and was glad she hadn't. Hux would have just used it as an excuse to send them away. He still looked worried even as he lay next to her, propped up on an elbow, murmuring Arkanisian to her stomach.

Who was this man? 

It was not the first time she had wondered at that question, and she doubted it would be the last. Was this who he could have been or who he was always meant to be? Despite or because? It didn't really matter – she loved who he was.

"She can't hear you, you know. She doesn't have ears yet."

He looked up at her as if she had blasphemed. "The a'lora will be just as remarkable as her sister," he declared. 

"A remarkable accident," Rose teased as she played with his hair. She was surprised by his response, though. 

"It wasn't an accident."

At his offhand remark, Rose shifted to sit up as she regarded him with disbelief. "You don't think I meant to get pregnant, do you? That I was trying to trap you or something?" She was indignant that he could think that, but he simply tugged her back down until she was laying with her head on his shoulder. 

"Of course not," he assured her as he began rubbing the tension from her neck with his thumb. "But we're both intelligent beings."

"And?"

"We both knew what ion storms could do. Consciously or not, we knew there was a chance then. And we chose not to ask about implants now. Purposeful ignorance."

"That's…no…I just…no…" He stopped her instinctual and incoherent denial with a question. 

"Why did you bite my hand?"

She had no idea where he was going with this and wanted to be aggravated, but his touch soothed her. Still, she snarked back.  "Well, if I recall, I bit you because you were an asshole and I was pissed off at you."

"And?"

"I wanted you to remember me," she concluded reluctantly. 

"And I did. I requested you as my handler."

He still wasn't off the hook for his earlier smugness. "I think that says more about you than it does anything else."

"My point, brat, is that, from the moment we met, we were inevitable – we made certain of that."

"I thought you didn't believe in Fate or the Force," she teased.

"I don't. I believe in us."

Looking back, she grudgingly acknowledged the kernel of validity in what he said. Though she still didn't like it. 

They had basically been two people telling each other to go away while, at the same time, cuffing themselves together and throwing away the key. Too stubborn or uncertain to admit what they wanted, so they engineered it instead.

But they had come so close to losing it too.

"We practically dared the universe to keep us apart," he concluded. 

"It did." 

For five years.

"Not permanently. And never again."

She raised her head to look at him. He didn't say anything that he didn't mean, but she needed to hear it. To be sure. "Do you promise?"

Hux had never broken a promise to her.

"I do."

~~

Rose found herself back on the beach the next day – it had become one of her favorite places, and she hoped that the Chiss alliance would allow them to return for visits.

Aristocra Latros, in fact, had invited Rose and her family to use the property for just that purpose earlier in the morning.  She had arrived to accompany Hux to more meetings and brought her granddaughter, Rea, to visit with Gaia for the day.

The young Chiss girl was quiet and often reserved, but she had a sweet temperament that led Gaia to declare the little girl as her best friend. Aristocra  Latros clearly doted on her, though sometimes she seemed as overprotective as Hux. 

Rose looked around to find the girls climbing on one of the rock formations on the nearby stretch of beach. It looked like they were trying to teach Milli how to pounce from the rocks. 

Hearing the girls' pretend growls and giggles, Rose smiled. This was what they would have, together, as a family. It was no longer a wish or a dream – the decision had been made. And, in a few years, it would be Gaia and her little sister, Hux’s a'lora, playing together. 

Just like her and Paige.

She knew Hux still had doubts, and he was worried about Carise and Opan as well as the few Expansionists left in the Order. But he was trusting her. And Rose understood the enormity of that decision for him. She also felt the weight of it. Hux had never, really, trusted anyone until her. Now, she had convinced him to go against his own judgment, and Rose knew that he'd never forgive himself if something went wrong. 

Which was why she was determined to make sure that nothing did.

Once the treaty was signed, and Hux had dealt with Carise, Opan, and their followers, they would all breathe easier. They would be safe, and Hux could move the First Order in the right direction - a peaceful one. 

One that benefited not only her family and the First Order but the galaxy itself. And it would be proof that his trust in her was not misplaced.

She was pulled from her thoughts by the sounds of a distant engine. Turning towards the coastline, she saw a boat in the distance, approaching the dock nearby. Rose was momentarily confused, knowing Hux was not expected back for several hours.

She tensed, checking that Hux's mono-molecular blade was hidden in her sleeve - more discreet, and diplomatic, than a blaster. Rose was about to call for the girls when the ship finally came close enough for her to see Dopheld standing on the deck. He appeared to be accompanied by Peera Masso, Lusica's fiancée. 

Rose breathed a sigh of relief and began walking leisurely toward the dock. She assumed that Hux had contacted Doph to let him and Kaydel know of the change of plans – that they were staying with the First Order. Though that didn't explain Kaydel's absence or Peera's presence.

She watched as the boat docked, and Doph and Peera stepped off. Even from a distance, Rose could see that Peera, typically reserved, looked anxious and upset. She glanced at Doph, looking for an indication of the cause of the young woman's anxiety, but he seemed to be focused on the landscape behind Rose. 

His eyes were searching for something in the distance, and Rose watched as he murmured something to Peera just before his hand reached for his sidearm. 

Rose turned to look for the threat but saw nothing.

Nothing.

No guards.

Other than she, the two girls, and the whisper cub, she could see no one else on the beach or the path leading back to the house. What had happened to the security guards?

She looked back at Doph in confusion to find him running towards her with his blaster drawn. Peera was a few steps behind. Suddenly, he stopped and pointed his blaster at something behind Rose's left shoulder. 

"Down! Get down!"

Just as he shouted his warning, time seemed to suddenly slow down. 

Doph aimed and fired right before a burn mark appeared on his torso. Rose watched in horror as he crumpled to the ground, pain and shock on his face.

Seconds later, Peera reached Doph's position and dropped to the ground on her knees, next to him, firing in the same direction as Doph had.

Rose turned, searching for the girls, to find them standing near the rock formation and watching the scene, shocked and fearful expressions on their small faces. Several meters away, she saw an unfamiliar First Order officer, firing in Doph's and Peera's direction. She had no idea where the attacker had come from – it seemed like he had materialized from thin air. But moments later, he, too, fell to the ground - a blaster hole in his chest.

It had all happened in seconds. 

Rose glanced back, seeing Peera clutching her arm but still holding her weapon. She wasn't firing it, however.

Rose realized why when she heard her daughter's frightened scream. 

"Mami!" 

She began to run in her daughter's direction just as Opan emerged from behind the rocks. That was why Peera wouldn't shoot – she couldn't risk hitting one of the girls.

Opan grabbed Gaia with one hand, firing his blaster at Peera with the other. She could see blaster burns on his clothing, but he seemed unharmed. And he had yet to aim at Rose, though she didn't understand why he was holding back.

Rose was just meters away from her daughter when she saw Milli leap from the top of the rock formation onto Opan. The cub's teeth and claws were still small, but they were extremely sharp, and she soon saw blood on Opan's face.

He released Gaia in order to pull the animal off himself. Seeing a chance, Rose yelled at her daughter, "Gaia, run!"

The little girl sprinted off towards the path back to the house, passing the body of the dead attacker on the way. Opan finally managed to yank Milli away, throwing the brave cub forcefully to the ground near where Rea stayed frozen in fear. 

Rose had no time to check on the animal or the other child, though. With a final burst of speed, she was able to hurl herself at Opan, taking them both to the ground before he could bring his blaster back up to aim.

"Rea, go!" Rose yelled as she and Opan struggled in the black sand. Seeing that Rea wasn't moving, Rose tried to pry the weapon away from the man. She had to protect the children.

At least it seemed that Gaia had gotten away - so long as there weren't more attackers at the house. She hoped Peli was safe, too. Doph was severely injured, possibly dead, and Peera was, at the very least, injured. Rose couldn't spare a glance to check on the young woman, but seeing as she had not come to her aid as she fought Opan, Rose feared the worst. Milli was hurt – she could hear the cub's whimpers nearby, and Rea was huddled on the ground, unmoving.

It was all up to Rose.

She didn't know how long they fought - it felt like forever but was probably only seconds - when he landed a punch to her torso. The sharp pain made her think he had cracked a rib. Instinctively, her hands moved to protect her stomach. 

And that's when Opan found his opportunity. She saw him grab the blaster's barrel and swing the weapon at her head.

She had one last thought before losing consciousness. 

Hux should never have trusted her, after all.

Chapter Text

The Steadfast, two days before Exogol

Hux sat, surrounded by the other members of the Supreme Council, waiting for their esteemed leader to make his entrance. The only sign of his impatience was the tapping of one gloved finger on his thigh – a gesture hidden from view by the table.

Hux had learned the art of stillness young – it was safer to be invisible. But it had the added bonus of allowing him to hone his observational skills as well. 

With that in mind, he watched the other members of the Supreme Council, a group that was both performative and necessary. Necessary in that they managed the plans and strategies of the First Order, a job that Ren demonstrated no interest in whatsoever. But also a facade because their Leader would wilfully ignore their recommendations on a whim.

The majority of the Councilors were fidgeting in their anxiety – Ren had become increasingly volatile as his search for the Scavenger proved futile. The mission to Mustafar, and his subsequent trip to Exogol, had only seemed to fuel his obsession. Hux allowed his own frustration and concern to rise to the surface in his mind. It was what Ren expected anyway and, finding it, he would look no deeper.

He wouldn't know that the anxiety was for Rose, or that the frustration was because he couldn't see her or be with her. Hux felt Pryde's suspicious eyes scrutinizing him, but before he could comment, the door hissed open.

Kylo Ren, in his full pre-Starkiller costume, stormed in followed by his so-called Knights. No one in the Order truly respected them – even the Stormtroopers avoided the Dark Siders whenever possible. 

Hux didn't bother to hide his disdain – Ren would find it unusual if he didn't feel it. As he watched, their Leader deposited something on the table. It took a minute for Hux to identify the gruesome object – it was the head of Boolio, the Cinta mine supervisor that had been the intermediary for Hux's intel on Palpatine. He was supposed to deliver the report to the Resistance. To Rose. 

"We have a spy in our ranks…that just sent a message to the Resistance. Whoever this traitor is won't stop us..."

Hux barely heard what Ren said. He had never been so afraid in his life. Boolio had been Rose's contact – someone she knew from the mining industry – chosen as a trustworthy option for dead drops. Had he been tortured? Given up Rose's name before Ren killed him? The location of their base?

It took all of his willpower to remain seated when he desperately wanted to contact Rose and ensure himself that she was safe.

His emotional spike drew Ren's attention. "I sense unease about my appearance, General Hux," he commented. 

Fortunately, Ren was so self-involved that he attributed Hux's fear to himself. He reigned in his anxiety enough to respond, "about the mask? No, sir. I like it."

He knew how to play the game and was relieved when, satisfied, Ren's attention was drawn away by Parnadee. He relaxed slightly more when the conversation turned to Exogol and Palpatine. Apparently, Ren had learned nothing incriminating about Rose from Boolio. 

Hux halfheartedly followed the discussion, even sending a glare at Pryde when he took the opportunity to criticize Starkiller, but his mind was racing with thoughts of Rose and the epiphany he had when he recognized Boolio.

He loved her.

He had thought himself incapable of that feeling. How do you give something you never received? It was like taking a child from a desert planet to an ocean world and expecting him to know how to swim.

Love, it seemed, was not an acquired skill set. It could grow spontaneously in even the harshest wasteland. Like the spine barrel flowers he remembered from his time on Jakku. Unlike the plant, though, love was not harmless.

No good could come from it. Particularly now, with the so-called return of Palpatine and a fleet of Siths whose driving purpose was to destroy Rose and all she held dear. Love would only be an obfuscation – a distraction from their primary objective of ridding the galaxy of the Sith. Starting with Kylo Ren. Hux had to stay focused on that.

At times, though, he wasn't even sure what his motivations were anymore. In the beginning, he had just wanted to destroy Ren. To take down Pryde. But then Rose, with all her idealism, had wriggled her way in. He questioned what his actual goals were now. His only sense of the right direction was towards Rose - she was his true heading. His compass.

And if they won, if they survived, perhaps Rose could teach him how to love safely – to give and receive it without crushing it in his fist.

If. 

Hux heard the hope in that word and hated it. Hope was a useless, weak emotion. Easily killed, as he had seen in others, time and time again. His father had taught him that hope was worthless – you either made something happen or you didn't. Hope got you nowhere. 

Rose was the first person he had met for whom hope was a strength. Kriff, sometimes she seemed to be almost a physical embodiment of the feeling. If he trusted her, perhaps she could teach him how to do that as well. 

Hux was pulled abruptly from his thoughts when Ren threw General Quinn against the ceiling, choking him in the process. As Quinn gasped his last breaths, Ren declared that he would continue his hunt for the Scavenger. 

Hux was reminded of the precariousness of his own position. Ren could do the same to him on a whim, and Hux’s cortosis weave would do nothing to save him from being choked to death. He resolved to send Rose an encrypted message after the meeting with the location and passcode for the files already in her possession. 

He hoped that it was just a precaution. That he could explain everything in person to her soon.

He should have known better than to hope.

~~

Hux was both annoyed and angry as the Chiss air car sped towards the spaceport at Desum. Moments earlier, an aide had pulled him away from a meeting with Chiss representatives from the Four Ruling Families. 

"Sir, your presence is needed at the spaceport."

"Whatever for?"

"A freighter has arrived. The Chiss allowed it to land, but the pilot has refused to allow an Inspection Team to board."

"What has that to do with me?"

"The pilot insisted on speaking to you or your wife, sir. She stated it was urgent."

"What is the name of the ship?"

"The Millennium Falcon, sir."

Hux had immediately excused himself from the meeting with a nod at Aristocra Latros. She could conclude the discussion and reschedule the remaining agenda items.

But he was frustrated by the Scavenger's timing. And it could only be Rose's erstwhile Jedi friend – Rose had said that she had possession of that piece of junk. She had pulled him away from a critical meeting. They were extremely close to completing the treaty, having only a few conditions left to work out - the hyperspace mines being the most contentious.

He believed they were close to an agreement, though. The signing ceremony would be held in a day or two.

He also needed to speak with Lieutenant Mitaka and learn the progress the investigations had made. They had finally identified the poison that killed Parnadee and were actively seeking how it had been procured. In addition, his aide had sent him a message last night that Security had broken the encryption for the spy's transmissions. Hux needed to contact the Lieutenant to confirm his instructions had been followed as well as inform him of their change of plans for an exit, and he was anxious to do so.

But instead of doing all that, he was headed to the spaceport – there was simply no telling what trouble or damage that woman would cause if he hadn't. And he wouldn't send Rose, preferring that she stay at their lodgings with the security team. He also wanted to determine the Jedi's intentions before he allowed her to see Rose.

And that was the source of his anger. How dare this woman show up now? Where had she been when Rose needed her help? She had abandoned Rose on Tatooine over two years ago in pursuit of some vague quest.  Rose had never explained the details, nor had he asked. It was of no interest to him. 

But this so-called friend had shown up out of the blue now – just as he and Rose had decided to stay together and with the First Order, following Rose's five-year-plan. The moment that the Order was also preparing to finalize a treaty with the Ascendancy. 

Hux was suspicious. 

Of course, Rose would have just laughed and told him he was always suspicious. 

She had previously told him that the Jedi had no more love for the Coalition than did Rose. He trusted her insight in that regard, but, still,  he didn't like it. He was uneasy, a sense of foreboding sitting in the back of his mind. 

A feeling that he had missed something. 

He spied the derelict freighter upon entering the port. The Scavenger was standing on the boarding ramp with several Chiss warriors watching from nearby. 

Exiting the air car, he took a moment to observe her as he approached her ship.  She seemed little changed, though her clothes were no longer rags and her hair was longer. He spied a lightsaber on her hip and was grateful she had restrained herself thus far. The Chiss had little experience with the Force and would likely react badly to having it used against them.

He halted at the bottom of the ramp and met her gaze.

"Where's Rose?"

"Why are you here?" he asked, ignoring her question. 

"I need to speak to Rose," she insisted. "It's urgent."

The woman's anxiety was evident, and it escalated his own sense of misgiving. "Not until you explain to me why you are here and how you found us."

She appeared ready to argue but then paused, her gaze unfocused as if she were listening to something. The woman took a deep breath before inclining her head. "Come aboard and I'll explain."

Hux hesitated only a moment before following her into the ship. It was his first time seeing the interior of the decrepit ship, and he was definitely unimpressed. Though clean, there were parts strewn everywhere, and he could see wires sticking out from hatches. He couldn't believe that Gaia had been born on this piece of trash.

Once they reached the main hold, his patience gave out. "Well?"

The Jedi turned to face him – he had forgotten how young she was. Even younger than Rose. 

"I had a vision," she stated. "In it, Rose was in danger. I need to see her."

"You're a bit late for that, aren't you?" he snidely responded, thinking of Gaia's kidnapping and Rose's arrest. "Those situations were dealt with, and Rose and Gaia are both safe. Where were you then?"

The young woman looked simultaneously relieved and confused by Hux's accusation. "I had the vision just after I received her message about Gaia's kidnapping. We went to Tatooine and then Takodana, but the trail went cold. We've been trying to track you down in the Unknown Regions ever since," she offered. "So Rose is alright?"

Hux focused on the one word that seemed out of place in her explanation. "Who is we?"

"General Hux."

He knew that voice. 

Hux spun around as he pulled his blaster. Standing behind him in the corridor stood Kylo Ren, the former Supreme Leader and deserter. Hux aimed, but before he could pull the trigger, the blaster flew from his grasp to the Scavenger's. 

"Wait!"

Hux ignored her, keeping his focus on the man in front of him. He regretted leaving his blade with Rose.

"You're supposed to be dead," he accused.

Ren's responsed with a shrug and an annoying smirk. "Likewise."

The Scavenger walked to stand next to Ren, still holding Hux’s blaster loosely in her grip. "Calm down. Rose knew Ben was alive and with me. She promised to keep our secret."

"Ben?" Hux repeated in confusion. 

"Ben Solo," Ren answered, crossing his arms over his chest. "I've gone back to my real name." He appeared unarmed, and the Scavenger had not drawn her saber either. Hux knew, though, that Force users didn't need weapons to injure or kill. Still, Hux refused to be intimidated. 

"Well, good for you," he sarcastically replied. "Have you come back for your old job too? Because you might find significant resistance to that idea." 

Hux was taken aback when Ren laughed. He hadn't believed the man capable of a smile, let alone laughter. "No. Like Rey said, we're just here to check on her friend, Rose."

"As if I would allow you anywhere near her. Or the First Order," Hux scoffed. "You can just turn around and leave."

"We're not here to make any trouble," the Scavenger argued. She handed the blaster back to Hux to prove her point. "But I need to see her."

Hux hesitated for the briefest moment – Rose had insisted that she could trust her friend. But he was skeptical, and Ren's presence did absolutely nothing to assuage his doubts. Sith or not, it was too much of a risk to allow the man anywhere close to his family.

"Rose is perfectly safe," he informed the woman as he holstered the weapon,  knowing they could simply disarm him if he aimed it at Ren again. "Your presence is neither needed nor wanted."

"So her injuries are healed? Everything is truly fine?" 

"What injuries? Rose was never physically hurt." 

At this, Rose's friend looked once again uncertain. She glanced at Ren before turning back to Hux. "But in my vision-"

Suddenly, Hux's commlink beeped. Pulling it from his pocket, he answered. "Report."

"General Hux, you're needed at your lodgings, sir. There's an urgent situation," the First Order officer's anxious voice replied.

Hux's heart stopped beating. "What happened?"

"An attack, sir."

A thousand questions and concerns immediately engulfed his mind, but only one mattered. "Are my wife and daughter alright?"

"We don't have details yet, sir. I know there were injuries and several fatalities, but I don't have the identities. Security arrived on scene moments ago."

"On my way." Hux switched off his comlink and stared at it for a moment. He had never prayed before, and didn't know who or what to pray to now. 

But he prayed.

"Hux-"

Ren's voice galvanized him. He cut the man off, looking to Rose's friend, "are you fueled? Your ship can get there faster than a Chiss air car and boat."

"Of course," she promptly affirmed, heading towards the cockpit. "I just need the coordinates."

The next few minutes were a blur as the Jedi checked the coordinates and Hux transmitted clearance codes to the Sposian authorities. He then strapped into the seat behind Ren, and they took off.

No one spoke as the ship flew over the bay. No trite assurances or meaningless platitudes. Each one of them, in their own way, knew the capricious nature of tragedy. Of death. 

And that words wouldn't stop it.

Fortunately, the freighter was as fast as its reputation, and they were landing on the beach near the house quickly. Hux was already standing, looking out the transparisteel viewport. He saw four bodies laid out on the sand, all in First Order uniforms. Seeing that none were Rose or Gaia, he felt like he could breathe for the first time since answering his commlink.

As soon as the ramp was lowered, he was rushing up the path towards the house, internally cursing his awkward gait. He didn't look back to see if the Scavenger or Ren followed – he couldn't be bothered to care at the moment. 

He glanced down as he passed the bodies but was unable to identify any of the individuals. A sergeant wearing a Security uniform met him just before he reached the lodging. 

"General-"

"Where's my family?" Hux demanded. 

"Inside, sir," he replied as he hurried to follow Hux.

They passed more corpses in uniform, both human and Chiss, before reaching the house, but Hux spared them no attention once he assured himself that none were his family. Another officer opened the door as he drew closer.

Hux was barely through the portal when he heard his daughter call out, "papa!" He watched as the little girl flew from her seat next to the Motto woman and into his arms. He picked her up and crushed her small frame tightly as she clutched his neck.

He could feel her body shaking as she cried into his neck. "He took mami! You have to find her, papa! Bring her back. Please, papa, go find her!"

Hux's legs would have buckled beneath him if he hadn't been holding his daughter. As it was, he stayed upright with a death grip on his cane as he met Motto's gaze. He could see the truth of Gaia's words in the old woman's eyes, one of which was black and blue. Noting other cuts on her face, he demanded, "what happened?"

Before the woman could reply, the sergeant stepped forward. "Sir, it appears that your wife was ambushed and taken. She-"

"By whom?"

"It was the bad man, papa! The one who took me away from mami." His daughter raised her tear-stained face to his, her eyes pleading with him to fix it.

Before he could assure Gaia, he heard Ren's voice behind him. "Who was it, Hux?" 

Hux was unsure how the two Force users had gotten past the security officer at the door - nor did he want to know - but he was reluctantly grateful for the interruption. He had no idea what to say to his daughter.

At Ren's question, everyone in the room turned to the Force users.

"Rey?" his daughter asked, still clinging to him.

"Rey!" came the relieved exclamation from Motto.

"Hey there, Gigi. Pelli," the woman acknowledged, as she stepped forward and smoothed Gaia's hair. "It's gonna be okay. We'll get your mama back. I promise."

At the reassurance and touch, his daughter surged towards the Jedi, and Hux released her into the woman's embrace. Part of him didn't want to let go – his daughter was safest in his arms. At the same time, he could think more rationally now. 

And he somehow knew that the woman would die before letting any harm come to Gaia.

He watched as she moved to embrace Motto gently, aware of the visible bruises, with Gaia in her hold. 

"Well?" Ren's question brought everyone's attention back to him, and Hux noted that the First Order officers in the room looked confused and anxious. He had no time to deal with that, however. 

"Tritt Opan," he answered. 

"Fucker," Ren replied with a frown, familiar with the man from his time on Hux's staff.

"Ben!"

Ren looked chagrined at the Scavenger's admonition and mumbled some apology to her and Gaia. Hux, though, agreed with the sentiment wholeheartedly. 

"He wanted to hurt me and mami, but my papa stopped him," Gaia added, still sniffling, as the Jedi wiped her face.

Hux turned to the sergeant once again, "how did this happen?"

"From what we can gather so far, sir, Commander Opan and at least three other accomplices managed to make it planetside undetected. They killed the guards and attacked your family on the beach. Ms. Motto managed to kill one of the attackers."

Hux looked to the old woman for confirmation. "I was gettin' ready to go get the girls for lunch when I spotted someone creeping around outside the house. I grabbed a kitchen knife and went to check and saw one of the guards on the ground. The guy got the jump on me and got in a few good licks, but I managed to get him in the gut. I was about to go warn Rosie when Gigi came screaming up the path. By the time I stowed her somewhere safe and made it to the beach, they were gone. I used Doph's commlink to call for help."

"Lieutenant Mitaka was here? Where is he?" Hux was increasingly frustrated - it was taking too long to learn the details. 

He needed to find Rose. Now.

The strategist in Hux understood that he needed the pertinent information. The husband in him wanted to grab a rifle and jump on the first ship and hunt down Opan.

He hadn't felt this much fear since seeing Boolio's head on that table. 

Fear, though, wouldn't save Rose. Information would. 

"It seems, sir, that Lieutenant Mitaka, accompanied by Chief Masso, left the Dominion to report to you. I can only surmise that it involved the arrest of Lieutenant Stynnix a short while ago."

"Arrest?"

"The security analysts finally traced the spy's encryption code to her, General," the sergeant answered.

Lieutenant Mitaka must have been coming to warn Hux without risking the use of the Dominion's comm system. He had no doubt that Stynnix was innocent – it was too convenient for Carise's aide to suddenly be accused.

"Then where is the lieutenant now?" he asked.

"We're assuming that Mr. Mitaka's and Ms. Masso's presence surprised the attackers. They exchanged fire, and the lieutenant killed one of them. Unfortunately, both he and Chief Masso were shot, though his injuries were more grave. Medics shuttled them both back to the Dominion just before you and, um, he arrived." The sergeant looked nervously at Ren, unsure how to act in the presence of the former Supreme Leader.

Ren merely stood there passively, neither acknowledging nor dismissing the officer's regard. The Jedi, Gaia still in her arms, spoke up.

"What happened to Rose?"

"She told me to run, and I did," his daughter answered. "I looked back and saw the bad man hit her with something, and she fell asleep. And I ran to get Peli."

Hux had to stop himself from yanking Gaia from the Jedi's arms and into his own. Not only was Rose injured, but his child had witnessed it. He couldn't help but recall the terror and helplessness he had felt during the Arkanis bombardment. He hated that his child would have such traumatic memories.

He had not protected his family - failed at the most basic responsibility of being a husband and father. But he had no time to wallow in guilt. His only focus could be on saving Rose.

"We believe there was at least one accomplice on the boat, sir. It was found just across the bay - the assigned crew, dead. We don't know where they took your wife or the Chiss girl, but it's likely that they have gone off planet."

"How-"

Hux's question as to how the attackers had managed to get past the Chiss and their orbital defenses was interrupted by the arrival of a clearly distraught Aristocra Latros. In his concern for his own family, Hux admitted that he had given little thought to the Chiss child.

"Let me through!" the older woman demanded as she pushed through the room's occupants towards Hux. "Where is my grandaughter?"

"Aristocra Latros," he replied, taking  a deep breath. There was no way to soften the blow, and he didn't try. The Aristocra was too much like himself to appreciate any such effort. "Rose and your granddaughter have been abducted."

Latros took a moment to assess the crowd, noting Gaia's tears and Motto's bruises before sliding past Ren and the Jedi.

"By whom?" she demanded.

"Extremists from the Order."

"Are they alive?" The Aristocra's reaction was unsurprisingly Chiss – she focused on gathering information instead of breaking down. Much like Hux in that regard. 

But he could also see the fear in her eyes. Also like him.

"I believe so."

She studied him for a moment, determining the veracity of his claim before she demanded, "how did this happen?"

Hux nodded to the sergeant, who spent several minutes reciting the same information to the Aristocra as he had told them already.

Hux spent that time in his own hell - careening between fear and self recriminations. Once again, he hadn't been there to protect his family when they needed him. And he hadn't sent them away - against his best judgment. 

"Did anyone actually see Rea taken?" The Aristocra demanded, pulling Hux from his tortured thoughts. "Alive?"

"We found four bodies on the beach as well as Lieutenant Mitaka and Chief Masso - both unconscious, and the injured cub. No traces of the General's wife or the child," the sergeant confirmed. "Mitaka or Masso may have seen more, but we won't know until they are conscious."

"Cub?" This was from the Jedi, her confusion clear as she tried to follow the details and names. Unlike Ren, she wasn't familiar with anyone involved other than Rose.

"Millisecond," his daughter answered. "Papa gave her to me. She attacked the bad man so I could get away."

"The animal is recovering, sir," the security officer assured him. Though he was grateful for the cub's actions, he stayed focused on Rose. At least, though, his daughter wouldn't lose her mother and beloved pet in the same day, he thought dejectedly. 

"Why?"

"Aristocra?"

"Why were they abducted?" the woman clarified. "What was the motivation?"

"To stop the treaty. To stop me." 

Hux alone was responsible for what happened. He was the one who had set the events in motion that brought them here.

"It will do far more than that." The Aristocra's cryptic warning confused him, but she continued on before he could ask for an explanation. "But what are their exact intentions? Ransom?"

"No." 

Hux was completely certain of that. There would be no negotiation, no demands. Whatever Opan intended – it would only end with Rose's death. He just prayed that he could find her in time. Recalling the Jedi's reason for finding him, he turned to her, "you said you had a vision. Rose was alive in it, yes?"

"Yes," she confirmed. "But hurt. Injured."

Hux released the breath he had been holding at her answer. Suddenly, the Force that he had derided and scorned for most of his life gave him something to hold onto. A lifeline. A chance that Rose was alive and that he could find her. 

"You're a Jedi?" The Aristocra regarded the Jedi in wonder – a strange reaction, Hux thought, in the circumstances.

"In a way," the younger woman hedged. 

Despite the vague reply, the Aristocra looked hopeful at the information. Hux, however, disregarded any concerns about how the Force users labeled themselves and focused on the woman's vision. "Did you see anything that can tell us where they are?"

She paused for a moment and seemed to be looking inward, drawing details from her memory. "It was cold. Far colder than this planet, I think. Somewhere barren with snow and ice. Darker. Rose was shivering and in pain. I couldn't really see more than that."

Hux was frustrated. What good was the Force if it didn't help him find Rose?

It owed him, he thought angrily. The fucking Force and its worshippers had done nothing but make his life miserable. It was time to balance the scales.

"It doesn't make sense." Ren spoke for only the second time since arriving at the house. Hux had paid him little mind, assuming the man would be just as useless as he had always been. 

"What?" asked the Aristocra, the only one in the room unaware of Ren's real identity.

"Opan," he explained. "He was always a follower. I can't see him being the ringleader for something like this."

"He wasn't," Hux confirmed. He knew who had planned all of this, and he looked forward to killing her with his bare hands. 

"Who?"

"Carise Sindian," he answered the former Supreme Leader, meeting his gaze pointedly. Hux knew that the Force user had his own grudge against the woman who had humiliated his mother. Who was responsible for the princess's ostracism by much of the New Republic. He had never bothered to hide his disdain for the woman. 

"We need to find her," the Jedi interjected, "and question her. She may know where they took Rose."

"She is on the Dominion, sir," offered the sergeant after checking his datapad. "Councilor Sindian was the one who found and turned in the code cylinder tied to Lieutenant Stynnix."

Hux was unsurprised. Of course, Carise would frame her aide to save herself. She thought nothing of sacrificing others in pursuit of her goals. He had even anticipated such a move. He had not, though, expected the attack, underestimating the woman again. His fury at her was only eclipsed by his anger at himself. 

"We need to get to the Dominion, then," he replied. "Immediately." He turned to the Chiss and offered, "Aristocra, you may come with us unless you are needed here to alert the Sposian authorities and the Stybla to the attack."

"I can't inform the Ascendancy about Rea's abduction. Not yet, at least." Once again, there seemed to be more to Latros' grim statement than Hux could decipher. She continued, "I will direct some family members to check the tracking of all ships leaving Sposia for the last few hours, but that must be the extent of Chiss involvement for now. I will, however, come with you."

There was definitely something going on here that Hux didn't understand. The Chiss response to threat was typically direct and assertive. Not the weak response that the Aristocra was taking. Time was a critical factor, though, and they had already wasted too much of it. His concerns about the Chiss would have to wait. 

"Stay here," Hux ordered the sergeant. "Deal with the dead and look for anything that you might have missed initially. It may also be necessary to coordinate with the Chiss."

"It won't." Again, he was perplexed by the Aristocra's refusal to directly involve the Chiss authorities. That, however, paled in his rush to find Rose. 

He took Gaia back into his arms - her closeness helping to calm him - as they departed the house. He knew the Dominion would be the safest place for her, especially with Yarev in command. They once again used the freighter for its speed and convenience, though Hux practically expected it to fall apart on the way. But between his and Latros' authorization codes, the trip was short and uneventful.

Their arrival, however, was not.

Enough First Order troops recognized the Millennium Falcon, and they were met by a number of curious officers. Again, fleet gossip had spread quickly. Thankfully, Yarev was also waiting for them and, other than a disapproving once-over of Ren, reacted professionally. 

"General, I have heard what happened. Lieutenant Mitaka and Chief Masso are in medbay. We have begun interviewing Commander Opan's associates with one exception. In regards to her, your suspicions were correct, and I have sent the information to your datapad. What else can I do?"

Yarev's report reminded Hux why he had placed the man in command of the Dominion. 

"Take Gaia and Motto to the Mitakas' quarters and stay with them until you hear from me. Post guards as well," Hux instructed. "We will visit Lieutenant Mitaka in medbay first to see if we can learn more."

At that, Hux reluctantly gave Gaia to the Captain. His daughter didn't want to let go, however, and it took several assurances before the older couple could take her away. They would keep her safe – both had demonstrated their trustworthiness several times over.

He then led Aristocra Latros, Ren, and the Jedi to the medbay. It was a gamble, but each had skills that could be useful in determining Rose's whereabouts. He paid little attention to the shocked expressions on the officers they encountered on the way. Even without his old costume, Ren's form and visage were distinct. But he would deal with the repercussions of the former Leader's reappearance later. 

Hux needed his talents for a critical task.

~~

Arriving in medbay, the staff pointed them towards one of the bacta stations. There, they found Rose's friend standing anxiously near an occupied tank. She turned on their arrival, exclaiming and embracing the Jedi once she recognized her while looking perplexed at Ren's presence. 

She didn't seem overly surprised, though. Hux didn't know if she had suspected it, or if everyone in the galaxy had just become inured to people returning from the dead. Their only reaction - a shrug and a "him again?"

"How is he?" Hux asked, interrupting the reunion.

The young woman faced him and wiped tears from her cheeks. "Doph was already in the bacta tank when I got to medbay. The doctors said he lost a lot of blood, but the shot thankfully missed his heart and went through a lung. He should recover. Where's Rose?"

The lieutenant had obviously been too busy with Mr. Mitaka's condition to hear the full details of the attack. 

"Opan took her. And the Aristocra's granddaughter. We are trying to determine where they might have gone." It was clear no information would be forthcoming from his injured aide, and his thoughts turned to the other witness.

As if hearing them, the young woman responded, "Peera may have seen something. She hasn't been put in a tank yet." She then led them to a nearby room, similar in function to Mr. Mitaka's. 

As they entered, the injured woman sat up from her position on the medbay bed. She grimaced in pain on doing so but waved off the doctor who moved to help.

"General, I'm sorr-"

"Tell me what happened," Hux interrupted. He was becoming increasingly aware of time passing. Rose was being taken further away with each second, and he didn't have time to waste.

"Lieutenant Mitaka was bringing you an urgent report," she began.

"About Lieutenant Stynnix's arrest, correct?"

"Yes, sir, but it wasn't her," Masso responded vehemently. "She wasn't the spy." 

"Is that why you were with Mr. Mitaka?"

She took a steadying breath before explaining the events. "Yes, sir. The lieutenant allowed me to accompany him after I told him about Lusica's arrest. He said you needed to know immediately. We docked, and I could see your family in the distance. Everything seemed fine, but Doph - Lieutenant Mitaka, I mean - told me something was wrong and to draw my weapon. Bef-" The woman stopped abruptly, finally registering Ren's presence. Her eyes grew wide and she visibly swallowed before turning back to Hux and trying again.

"B-Before I could, he was running towards your wife and yelling for her to get down. That's when I saw one of the attackers. Doph took a bolt to the chest and went down. I managed to hit him but not before I was shot. That's when I saw Commander Opan grab the children – your wife ran over to intervene, and I tried to find an angle, but I took a bolt to the hip fired by someone behind me. I can only assume the boat crew was involved. I was trying to get back up and help your wife when I suddenly lost consciousness. The doctor said another bolt grazed my scalp and knocked me out. The last thing I saw was Opan and your wife struggling for his blaster, sir."

The officer seemed apologetic that she hadn't been able to do more, but Hux knew that she and Mr. Mitaka likely saved his daughter's life.

The doctor stepped forward and said, "Chief Masso needs to prep for the bacta tank, sir."

"I wish I could have done more, General. But Lusica is innocent, I promise you."

"I know. I'll see to her release soon," he promised. "She'll be waiting when you come out of the bacta."

He turned, pulling  his commlink out, and contacted Yarev. "Captain, I want you to bring Councilor Sindian to the Leader's quarters immediately. Leave your most trusted officers with Gaia and Motto."

"You're not arresting her?" the Jedi asked. "You don't want to question her in the brig?"

With a knowing look at Hux, Ren responded, making it clear he understood his intentions. 

"No. He doesn't."

Good.

Chapter Text

The four of them - the Force users, the Aristocra, and Hux - had only been in the Leader's quarters for a few moments when Yarev arrived with Carise in tow. She wasn't restrained in binders – Yarev had clearly understood Hux's desire for an element of surprise. 

"What is the meaning of this? Who do you think you…" The arrogant expression she was wearing when she entered the living area disappeared the moment she spotted Ren. She stopped, her voice trailing off in shock.

Ren simply stood there, his arms crossed, and stoically watched her. Hux noted the tick under his eye, though. He had expected Ren's reaction. He had not anticipated the Jedi's, however. 

She glanced at Ren and asked, "that's her?" At his slight nod, she walked up to Carise and, without any fanfare, punched the woman in the face. Carise landed in an undignified heap on the floor, clutching her nose.

Without remorse, the Jedi declared, "that was for Leia." She then walked back to stand near Ren who smiled warmly at her.

Hux was taken aback for just a moment. He had never seen the man look at anyone like that before. And he had never heard of Jedi behaving that way either. Perhaps there was more to these two than met the eye.

Now, however, was not the time for personal conjecture.  He looked to Carise as she unsteadily regained her feet, still holding her nose, and demanded, "where was Rose taken?"

"I'm calling Security. You're traitors. You're all traitors to-"

She stopped abruptly when the Jedi took another threatening step in her direction. While he might have liked to see Carise on the floor again, time was too precious. 

"Answer me, Carise."

"I don't know what you are talking about." Her reply was as haughty as her demeanor. But Hux could see through her - the way her eyes darted nervously around the room. The tension in her shoulders.

"I have no time for your nonsense," he countered. And he didn't. They needed to know where Rose was taken before it was too late. 

If it wasn't already. 

"You ordered the attack on my family just as you had Parnadee killed. Just like you sent fleet coordinates to the Coalition. So where is Rose?"

"I did none of those things. Why would I?"

A child could see that her outrage was completely manufactured. Carise was barely even trying to conceal her satisfaction at this point. She wanted Hux to know it was her so long as he couldn't definitively prove it. That was a mistake. And he was about to show her the enormity of it.

"Because Parnadee threatened your power. As did I. Because you wanted to stop the treaty. And because having the Coalition as a continuing threat strengthened the Expansionists' position." He had surmised all of this long ago. It had simply been a frustrating search for proof since then.

"That's ridiculous," Carise scoffed, though he could see the fear building behind her eyes. "I'm the one who found proof that Lieutenant Stynnix was the spy. And I have no control over Opan."

There.

"I never mentioned Opan was involved, Carise. And I embedded a tracking code into the encryption the spy used. It activated when you connected Lieutenant Stynnix's code cylinder to the encryption, allowing Security to find surveillance recordings of you doing so." At that, he pulled out his datapad, revealing the incriminating footage.

"This is your last chance," he warned her. "Where did Opan take Rose?"

Her politician's mask seemed to finally fall away, revealing both defiance and anger on her face, visible through the blackening eyes and bleeding nose. "Why should I tell you anything?"

"Because there's no surveillance in here."

She only looked confused by his response.  "So?"

Hux looked at the former Supreme Leader. "Ren?"

The man sighed, understanding Hux's intention. "This may hurt," he stated, without a hint of regret, as he nodded in acceptance and stepped forward, reaching out with one arm in Carise's direction. She backed up several steps, a panicked look on her face, but Ren simply followed. 

Frantically, she glanced at the room's other occupants, but they all regarded her without pity. Even the Jedi, Rey, stared back, unblinking. She did not seem pleased with the situation or Ren's actions, but neither did she voice any protest.

Finally, cornered against the couch, Carise closed her eyes in distress. She and Ren stood there, locked together, for several minutes. Ren appeared to be in concentration, while Carise clenched her jaw, possibly in pain, as she began sweating and shaking. Tears eventually began slipping from her closed eyes.

Hux felt no remorse.

Finally, Ren stepped back, and she sank backwards onto the couch, unconscious. Hux didn't bother to check on her condition, though, refusing to spare her another glance.

Instead, he looked to Ren who said, "she was responsible for everything you accused her of - and more. But she doesn't know where Opan took Rose or the child. He, apparently, was nervous that you were closing in on them. And Carise was desperate to stop the treaty. They panicked and rushed the plan. It seems that Mitaka's appearance ruined everything."

"How so?" This was from Aristocra Latros who, up til that moment, had silently observed the proceedings. 

"From what I could see, they intended to take Rose and her daughter and make it look like she fled from the First Order, killing several Chiss warriors in the process. Ending any chance at an alliance. Opan told her that he would dispose of them but didn't provide details. I assume it was all kriffed when Mitaka showed up, and Rose's daughter got away. Your granddaughter wasn't part of the original plan."

"Opan probably saw an opportunity to create more discord between the Order and the Ascendancy by taking the girl," Hux surmised, frustrated that Carise did not know Opan's whereabouts.

"He did much more than that." 

Hux could no longer ignore the Aristocra's vague, ominous warnings. If she had information that would help or hinder Rose's rescue, he needed to know.

"What does that mean, exactly, Aristocra?"

The older woman looked uncertain for a moment. Unusual for a Chiss politician. After some internal debate, though, she looked pointedly at Hux before glancing at Yarev and Carise's still unconscious form.

"It's extremely classified information."

"The two of us can discuss it in my office then, while Captain Yarev sees to it that Carise is transported to the brig. Will that suffice?"

"Yes, but the Jedi should come as well," the Chiss answered, surprising Hux. He didn't correct her misperception regarding the Force users. The young woman had said she wasn't really a Jedi, and he had no idea, nor interest in, what Ren was calling himself. But if it got him closer to finding Rose, he would comply.

He escorted them to the office, leaving Yarev to handle Security with instructions to have Lieutenant Stynnix released immediately as well.

Once there, Latros regarded each of them solemnly before beginning her explanation.  "What I am about to tell you cannot leave this room. I would be disowned by the Stybla and exiled, if not worse, from the Ascendancy. You would certainly all be killed."

"Agreed," Hux assured her, hearing the Force users murmur their agreement as well. 

"My granddaughter is what we call a ozyly-esehembo - a sky-walker. It is the Chiss' most closely guarded secret."

"Skywalker?" the Jedi repeated, clearly surprised. Even Ren looked interested at hearing the name.

"We do not have what you would traditionally consider Force users among our species," the Aristocra explained. "However, very rarely, Chiss girls are born with a gift for what we call Third Sight. It's a form of pre-cognition that enables them to navigate hyperspace without navigational equipment."

"Force-enhanced astrogation," Ren supplied, sounding extremely curious at the revelation. "Some Jedi have that skill as well."

"Yes, many of our military ships utilize sky-walkers."

So that was the missing piece, Hux thought. The Ascendancy's obsessive secrecy. Their seemingly sporadic use of the Navigator's Guild. He was impressed, despite himself. It was quite a feat for an entire species to keep such a large secret.

"Your granddaughter?" the Jedi inquired.

"Not yet assigned," Latros answered with a shake of her head. "I have been calling in favors to delay her service and keep her with her family. You must understand that these girls, from five to thirteen years old, serve in dangerous situations. Warships during battles. I was selfish. I didn't want Rea hurt or killed."

"What happens when they turn thirteen?" Ren asked. His interest was clear, reminding Hux of the man's fascination with anything connected to the Force.

"Most lose their ability by then - none retain it into adulthood."

All of the Aristocra's interest in the Force and Lesser Space suddenly became clear. He had suspected that she had other motivations for facilitating an alliance between the First Order and the Ascendancy. She had wanted a bridge to the Jedi, and Rose had provided one.

"That's why you were asking questions about Jedi training," he surmised.

In typical Chiss fashion, the Aristocra looked neither abashed or regretful for her machinations. Subterfuge was too much a part of their culture.

"Yes, we have had fewer sky-walkers born in recent years, and it would help if we better understood this 'Force' they used. If we could find a way to nurture and keep the ability as they aged, we also wouldn't have to take young girls away from their families and put them in harm's way."

"I can't believe you have been able to keep such a large secret." The Jedi seemed as impressed as Hux, though now that the information was shared, he didn't see how it would aid in finding Rose and the child. 

"The Ascendancy has gone to war before to protect that secret and our sky-walkers," the older woman confirmed. "They would not hesitate to destroy the First Order if the Defense Council learned Rea had been taken. Or their secret exposed. And I cannot delay reporting it for long."

At this, Hux allowed his impatience to show. He really couldn't care less about the First Order or the Ascendancy at that moment. Let them burn, he thought. They could destroy each other. 

Rose was all that mattered. 

"Regardless, we are no closer to finding Rose. Or your granddaughter."

Before she could respond, the Aristocra's Questis chimed an alert. She checked it before raising her face back to the others. "A shuttle was tracked leaving the planet shortly after the time of the attack. Councilor Sindian's authorization code was used, and it was allowed to depart."

"So we can be certain that they're not still on Sposia," the Jedi concluded. "Can we track the shuttle?"

Ren answered before Hux could, "No, Opan would have disabled all the tracking devices."

Hux wanted to yell in frustration. They had learned a great deal but none of it would lead him to Rose. Even his own hyperspace tracker was useless in this situation - the First Order had no data on the hyperlanes within the Ascendancy's boundaries. He was contemplating the use of more aggressive interrogation techniques on Carise when the Jedi spoke up again.

"Your granddaughter is a sky-walker. Force ability is often passed on genetically in families. Were you one as well?" she asked the older woman. 

"Yes, I was. It's one reason I want to reform the program - my experience was… difficult. Why?"

Hux, too, was curious why it mattered. He was also pessimistic. The Force had never once helped him, and he didn't see how it could do so now.

"Because it's likely that you still have some residual ability or sensitivity - the Force never truly disappears. Beings with Force sensitivity can often detect it in others - find each other. And your granddaughter's Third Sight should 'feel' similar to your own. We may be able to detect her exact location if we can get reasonably close."

Despite himself, Hux felt a glimmer of hope at the young woman's explanation. 

"We call that Second Sight - it is rare even among sky-walkers," the Chiss woman confirmed.

"Training and meditation can help hone the ability," Ren offered.

"What, exactly, is reasonably close?" Hux asked, focused on the Jedi's plan.

"Within the system, at least, especially since my only connection to her signature is through her grandmother." 

"But the Chaos is vast, and we have no other clues," countered Latros.

She seemed just as frustrated as Hux with the Force's shortcomings. There had to be an answer. A detail they had overlooked - something that would point them in the right direction. That would at least get them started.

"In your vision of Rose," he asked the Jedi, "did you see anything that would help us narrow down her location? Terrain, landmarks, anything at all - even if it seemed insignificant."

"No, it wasn't that distinct – she was hurt. I don't think she was on a ship, though it was hard to see. Possibly a corridor or cavern. The light was dim, and the air had a sort of purplish haze."

"Purple?" Hux repeated. The Jedi hadn't mentioned that detail previously. 

It seemed that the Aristocra picked up on that bit as well, and she glanced at Hux before turning back to the Jedi. "Like from the atmosphere interacting with gasses emanated by a red giant?"

"Possibly," the young woman agreed. She took a moment to consider and then began nodding her head enthusiastically. "Yeah, I think so."

"The Dura Nebula," Latros exclaimed. "It must be. Its sun is dying, and all the planets have been inhabitable for a long time. Frozen wastelands. Only good for mining, though even that has become too dangerous. I don't understand why they would have gone there."

Finally.

"It may not have been voluntary," Hux offered, thinking of Rose. Good girl. "How far?"

"Approximately four thousand light years," Latros supplied. "But the hyperlanes in that area are extremely unstable. It will take some time."

"Ben may be able to help," the Jedi suggested. 

It took Hux a moment to realize she was referring to Ren. In another time, he would have scoffed at the new/old moniker, but Hux would call the man anything he wanted if he helped him save Rose.

"We need to leave immediately," Hux urged. They would be traveling further into Ascendancy territory, though, so he added, "it seems inadvisable to take First Order or Ascendancy ships - can yours make it?"

"Of course," answered the Jedi.

Before leaving the quarters, the Jedi - Rey - explained that the Aristocra needed to stay behind – that the child's Force signature would be easier to detect without the grandmother's nearby. Hux was relieved. If the rescue was unsuccessful, Latros might be able to work with Yarev and the other Councilors to prevent a war.

He still needed to make one stop before departing, though, and he dreaded it.

Hux entered the Mitakas' quarters to find Gaia sitting next to Motto, pretending to watch a holoprogram. When she spotted him, the little girl flew into his arms. 

"Papa!"

He clutched her tightly for a moment before reluctantly pulling back and addressing her. "I need you to stay with Peli and Captain Yarev and be good. I am going to get your mother."

"I wanna go," Gaia insisted.

"No, ta'ima, I need to know you are safe, so I can focus on finding your mami."

"You'll bring her back? You promise?"

She sounded so much like her mother just then.

Promise me you'll survive. 

He offered Gaia the only assurance he could  – Hux held up his hand and extended his little finger. "Pinky promise."

It worked. His daughter hooked her finger around his and offered a small smile. He wondered what he had ever done right that the Tico females were so willing to trust him. 

"I love you, papa," she said, hugging him one more time before he reluctantly passed her over to the older couple.

He addressed Yarev. "Captain, you have your orders."

"I do, sir," he solemnly assured Hux. Yarev would protect Gaia and the others at all cost - even if that meant fleeing from the Order and the Ascendancy with them.

Hux was almost through the door, headed to the Falcon's hangar bay, when Peli's voice made him pause.

"Bring our girl home, Red."

He nodded once and was gone.

Arriving in the hangar, he was startled to find dozens of First Order officers and troopers waiting for him. He gestured to the Jedi and Solo to board and begin pre-flight before facing the crowd.

"What's this?'

One of the Security officers stepped forward – Hux recognized him as the lieutenant who had been on duty in the brig when Rose had been detained. "We want to help you, sir," the young man said, "to find your wife."

Despite the officer's evident nervousness, he stood firm. Hux wasn't sure if the anxiety was the result of the situation, himself, or seeing the newly undead, former Supreme Leader. He looked around at the soldiers' faces - all seemed sincere and determined. 

"All of you?"

"Lots more, actually, General," the young man assured him. "We're just the ones who were free on this shift's duty cycle. A lot of people had to be convinced to stay at their stations."

Hux simply stood there a moment, strangely touched by his soldiers' show of devotion. He couldn't remember witnessing anything like this among the troops previously. Had the First Order changed so much or had he simply not been seeing it accurately? But, then, he shouldn't really be surprised. 

Rose had that effect on people. 

Looking around, he decided that additional numbers could come in handy. They had no idea how many were with Opan, after all. "Who has cold-weather survival and combat training?"

Almost a dozen stepped forward, and Hux selected several that were already carrying weapons and gear. "You four, with us. The rest of you must stay and follow the Captain's orders. My wife will be grateful for your willingness to come to her aid." He had taken several steps up the ship's ramp before pausing and looking back. 

"As am I."

~~

Hux spent the first few hours of the trip compulsively checking his blaster and weapons, trying not to think about Rose. Every time he did, his mind would just start cycling through scenario after scenario imagining her injured and dying. And him arriving too late to save her. 

The other First Order soldiers talked amongst themselves and played dejarik to pass the time. That is, when they weren't staring at the Falcon's interior in a mix of awe and fear. They regarded the Jedi the same. She was currently meditating nearby. At least, that's what Hux assumed she was doing. 

Fortunately, Ren had stayed in the cockpit. Apparently, he had some training in using the Force for astrogation, so he was piloting. Trying to find shorter routes to help them catch up to Opan.

Hux could scarcely believe that he was here, on the most notorious piece of junk in the galaxy, relying on Ren and the Jedi - no, he corrected himself, Solo and Rey - to help him save Rose. He could almost believe she had engineered the whole thing to bring her husband and friends together. He almost smiled, hearing her lecture him in his head about 'saving what we love.'

But that only reminded him that he had never told her he loved her. Not outright. Not in clear, unflinching Basic. He would never forgive himself if he didn't get the chance to tell her. And, with that thought, the parade of horrors in his mind began again.

He recalled his almost-death on the Steadfast. It's amazing how many thoughts the mind can conjure in one second. That's all he had between seeing Pryde grab the trooper's blaster and losing consciousness as he slammed into the deck. Not knowing whether the cortosis had worked (it had been intended for lightsabers). Wondering whether he was about to die.

He had thought of Rose. Of his love for her.

Would she think of him at the end? Of Gaia? Would her last thought be one of bitterness? Anger that he hadn't saved her? Regret that she loved him?

He was driving himself mad.

Seeking relief from his tortured thoughts, he made his way to the cockpit. There, he found Solo in the pilot's chair, focusing on the controls. Hux sat next to him, briefly watching the hyperspace lines streak past.

"How much longer?"

"An hour. Maybe two," Solo answered. "I should be able to shave off more time, but navigating with the Force is less predictable than a nav computer."

"That is not reassuring," Hux complained.

Rather than reacting to Hux's tone, as he once would have, the man simply said, "don't worry. Rey will find them."

"You sound certain." Hux found a measure of reassurance in that. In Solo's quiet confidence. It was so far removed from his history with the man that he almost seemed like a different person. Almost. There was still some of Ren in there, but it seemed balanced by this new, calmer persona.

"She found me."

"And where were you, exactly?" Hux asked despite telling himself not to.

"The World Between Worlds. The Force-"

"Stop there," Hux interrupted. "I have no desire to know more about your mystical nonsense."

He didn't. He might be grateful for the Force if it helped him find Rose in time, but that was the limit of his interest. Unlike many others, Hux had no curiosity regarding the religion and its practitioners.

"Rey couldn't have done it without you, though," Solo added with a smirk. As though he knew he was about to say something that would irritate Hux.

"Me?"

"When Starkiller Base exploded, it released a massive amount of Force energy from Ilum's kyber crystals. That Force energy collided with the dark energy stored in the planet and somehow created a Vergence in the Force. Rey was able to enter it and find me." Solo finished his explanation with a pleased smile. He then paused, relishing the moment before concluding, "all thanks to you."

"Naturally," Hux sighed.

They sat there for several minutes in awkward silence. Finally, Solo cleared his throat and asked, "what's it like?"

"What?"

"Being a dad."

Hux had no idea why Solo would ask such a personal question, and his initial reaction was to refuse to answer and walk away. However, that meant returning to the cabin and the endless loop of nightmares in his mind.

So he allowed himself to answer - a distraction for a few more moments. 

"Terrifying," he bluntly admitted, his mind drifting toward thoughts of Gaia. "Exhilarating. All you want to do is protect them. To keep anything bad from ever touching them. And you're constantly worried that you're failing at it. Always stressed. But then she smiles at you and reaches for you and it's all worth it. You'd remake the galaxy for that smile."

Hux mentally shook himself, surprised by the honesty of his answer. He was not thinking clearly – he would never have made such a vulnerable admission to Solo if he was.

Solo, himself, was silent for several moments before finally commenting, "you've changed, Hux."

"Don't presume to know me," he replied with a frown. 

The man only grinned. "Still an asshole, though."

He couldn't stand Solo's self-satisfied smirk one more moment, and stood, exiting the cockpit. He returned to the main cabin to find the Jedi, Rey, sitting quietly. She beckoned for him to join her and he reluctantly did so.

It seems he couldn't avoid these Force users.

"I've been meditating," she stated, confirming his earlier suspicion. "Trying to pick up on Rea's Force signature or seeing if I can learn anything else from my vision."

"And?"

She shook her head, indicating that she had succeeded at neither. Hux's stomach dropped, and he couldn't stop himself from voicing the one question he had avoided asking the woman so far.

"How badly was Rose hurt in your vision?" He braced himself for the answer.

"It's hard to say. She was clearly in pain and shivering. Wet and cold. Maybe a head injury, and there was a lot of…"

Her voice trailed off, confirming Hux's worst fears.

"Blood," he finished.

"Yes, but I couldn't tell if it was hers or someone else's." The woman was clearly trying to reassure him, but it fell on deaf ears.

"She's pregnant."

He could barely say it aloud. Had been trying not to think about it. Rey seemed taken aback, and they sat there for several minutes in silence. Finally, she spoke in a firm, resolute voice.

"We'll find her, and she'll be fine," she said. "They will all be fine. Don't give up hope."

This was the woman who, according to Rose, waited fifteen years for her parents to return to Jakku and find her. He imagined that she had reassured herself the same way, every day, as she waited. Still, they never came. 

"Hope," he scoffed. He didn't want to hear that word. Hope hadn't brought her parents back, and it wouldn't save Rose.

"Ah, I see," she said in a knowing tone that grated. "Ben used to be afraid to have hope too."

"It's not fear," he countered. "Hope is a delusion. A weakness."

"You know, I wanted to give up hope after Exogol – when I thought Ben was gone forever. But Rose wouldn't let me. As much as she was grieving, she never gave up. On any of us. I've never met someone who personifies hope the way Rose does."

He knew it to be true - Rose was goodness and hope and light. He didn't know what he would do if she left him in the dark. Hux recalled Rose's story about Exogol and how she had wanted to die with him. He felt the same, though he knew he would endure for the same reason she had - Gaia.

"Hope won't heal her injuries or protect her from the cold," he countered.

"No, but it will keep her alive until we can find her. If you underestimate hope, you underestimate Rose Tico."  Rey's voice was full of conviction as she met his gaze, willing him to believe her.

"Hope isn't some fragile, weak thing that falls apart at the first punch. Rose taught me that. Even with a black eye, split lip, and bloody knuckles, hope still gets back up to go another round. It's tough. Hope is always the last thing to die."

"Dead is still dead."

"As long as Rose has hope, she'll find a way to stay alive." At that, Rey reached out and patted him on the arm before heading towards the cockpit.

Hux desperately wanted to believe her, but he couldn't help but remember Rose telling him that the galaxy wasn't very kind to good men. That it killed its heroes. And, despite her reluctance to see it, Rose was a hero.

Little time had passed when he heard Solo announce that they were coming out of hyperspace. They had arrived at the nebula.

Hux took a moment to address the officers. 

"Gear up. We don't know the exact conditions or how many people Opan has with him. Our first objective is to find my wife and the Chiss child and recover them alive. Capturing or killing the attackers is secondary. Understood?"

They all nodded, understanding that the priority was Rose and Rea. Though Hux wanted to personally kill Opan and each and every conspirator, he focused on Rose. 

Saving what we love.

At that, he returned to the cockpit. As he entered, Rey pointed towards the sixth planet in the system. "There."

His heart began to race as he focused on the planet in question. He was afraid to ask, but he braced himself and forced the question out. "What did you find?"

Rey turned to face him, a gentle smile on her face.

"Hope."

Chapter Text

Girls? Did you die?

Yeah. Rose killed us.

It'd be nice to live without being afraid.

Being afraid is like wearing my medallion. It’s part of me. Even when I’m not thinking about it, it’s still there.

The Resistance. Find them. Join them.

We'll be back.

We'll be waiting. 

See you then, Rose.

The voices of her parents and sister swam through Rose's head. She was dreaming. She must be.

As her consciousness slowly returned, she could feel the vibrations of a ship traveling at lightspeed. Ah. Rose must have fallen asleep in Paige's gunnery well again, she decided. Not an unusual event for her and her sister as the Hammer flew through hyperspace. 

That didn't explain the pain in her head, though. Or the way her body ached. Had the ship been in an accident? Rose struggled to open her eyes, determined to ask Paige what had happened. 

It was much harder than it should have been, though, and the pain in her head exploded when she finally pried her eyes open. She shut them immediately, but not before they told her that she was not on the Hammer. That there was no Paige.

And, suddenly, Rose remembered. 

The beach. The attack. Doph getting shot. The struggle for Opan's blaster. Gaia!

At the thought of her daughter, Rose again forced her eyes open, looking for the little girl. What happened? Did she get away? Rose ignored the pain, looking around frantically. She spotted a child and breathed a guilty sigh of relief when she recognized Latros' granddaughter. 

"Rea?" she croaked, her throat dry and sore.

The little girl looked up from where she huddled on the floor of the ship nearby. A First Order shuttle, Rose realized. 

"Are you alright?" she asked as she visually inspected the girl for injuries, relieved when she didn't see any.

The child glanced fearfully in the direction of the cockpit before turning back and nodding to Rose.

"Did you see Gaia?"

"She got away."

At that, Rose felt like she could breathe again. Though when she did, the sharp pain in her chest reminded her of Opan's punch. Anxious, Rose took a moment to inventory herself. The pain in her head was excruciating, and her ribs ached, but that seemed to be the extent of her injuries. There was no pain or cramping in her abdomen – the baby wasn't hurt, it seemed.

While analyzing her injuries, Rose became more fully aware of her physical state. She was laying on the floor of the shuttle, her hands restrained in front of her with binders.

She slowly sat up, the pain agonizing with each movement. Finally, she was able to lean against the bench behind her. Her reposition revealed something else as well – she could feel Hux’s mono-molecular blade still strapped to her arm, hidden under the layers of her cold weather clothing. 

She sighed in relief at the realization that she wasn't completely helpless. All she had to do was keep herself and Rea alive until Hux found them.

That he would, she didn't doubt. His determination had always been a tangible thing. No less a law of physics than gravity. Rose's only concern was the extent of the damage he would cause on his way to save her. 

She was about to ask Rea about their kidnappers when the cockpit door slid open. Opan walked into the main cabin, stopping when he noticed that Rose was conscious. 

She took a moment to appraise him as well - his face cut and bruised from Milli's and Rose's attacks. She didn't even try to hide the satisfied smirk at seeing the damage. Clearly, her husband had rubbed off on her. At that thought, her smirk turned into a full smile.

Seeing her expression, Opan scowled. "That blow to your head must have done some real damage. Trust me, you have no reason to smile."

"He's going to kill you." Rose didn't elaborate – she didn't need to.

"Only if he finds me, and he won't," Opan countered. "After we have taken care of you two, I'll disappear."

Rose recalled once comparing Hux and Poe as the difference in certainty and arrogance. And, like Poe, Opan embodied the latter. But arrogance was still dangerous. And Rose had to protect the little girl. 

"Let Rea go. She has nothing to do with this."

"I can't do that. She's going to have to make up for your missing brat."

Rose desperately wanted to smack the look of exaggerated remorse from the man's face, but she could almost hear Hux's voice telling her to be patient. To gather information. 

"What are you talking about?"

"Well, I suppose the good news is that I am not going to kill you." He paused, relishing the moment, before continuing, "but you will wish I did. Carise wanted you dead and tossed into the sea. However, I decided that would be a waste, especially now."

"Now?"

"I can't go back to the First Order just yet – Doph, showing up, ensured that," he explained, clearly angry. "Not until Hux is dealt with, at least. So I need some credits to tide me over until I can access Carise's accounts."

Rose was both relieved and frightened after Opan's statement. Relieved that Hux, and consequently Gaia, were obviously safe for now. Yet afraid because Opan and Carise didn't intend for it to remain that way. Another reason she needed to learn all she could now.

"I don't understand," she prompted.

Almost immediately, she wished she hadn’t. Opan's face transformed with a malicious smile - similar to the one she saw when he held his blaster at Gaia's head on Castilon, threatening to kill her child for her father's crimes. He reached down and grasped her chin in some sick imitation of Hux on the Supremacy. It made Rose want to vomit.

"You'll be worth a nice sum on the market. As will the girl - even more than your brat. The Chiss are viewed as an exotic species to many."

He didn't mean it. Couldn't. 

Surely, he wouldn't try to sell them to slavers! Not even Opan could be that inhumane, she thought frantically as she jerked her head away from his grasp. He couldn't possibly understand the consequences.

"You're going to start a war," she warned him.

"Good," he countered. "There's more opportunity in war. Not much profit in peace."

Her stomach dropped at his easy dismissal. Rose was incredulous, even more nauseous at the realization. "You've done this before."

"Disappearances aren't really questioned during war. Especially those of children who don't even have names."

Gods. He had sold children from the stormtrooper program. Finn and Jannah might actually have been the lucky ones, she thought with dread. Even Hux, in his pre-Crait days, would never have allowed something like that. 

Hux.

"He will find us."

She was more certain of that than anything else in the galaxy. But would he find them in time?

As if hearing her thoughts, he stated, "once you're in the pipeline, no one will ever find you. You'll just…disappear."

With that, he turned and walked back to the cockpit, leaving Rose full of fear at his plans. 

Opan was right. Once beings were bought by traffickers, they were never seen again. Not alive. Somehow, she had to delay Opan – to buy Hux time to find them. 

She looked up and found Rea sitting nearby, hugging her knees to her chest. She could see the child's fear, but Rea had stayed remarkably calm so far.

"Rea, did you see how many soldiers are on the ship?"

"Four. Plus the man who talked to you." 

Five. There was no way that Rose could take on five of them - not with a single blade and in binders. Frustrated, she looked around the cabin, trying to find anything that could be used as a weapon. But there was nothing. Opan was too careful to leave anything lying around on the ship.

The ship.

There were different kinds of weapons, Rose thought, as she surveyed the interior of the shuttle, determining its model. It was a Xi-class light shuttle like the one she and Finn used to escape the Supremacy. 

Like the ones she had worked on in the Dominion's hangar bay.

Rose needed to stop the ship and to keep Opan from taking them further away from Hux. It would necessitate careful sabotage – damaging the ship without destroying it. She needed to force them to land.

"Rea, I need your help."

"How?"

"I need you to open that access panel right there. Can you do that?" Rose asked, nodding towards the panel opposite her.

"What about the men?"

"We'll be quiet and quick, okay?" Rose assured the frightened girl. She watched, relieved, as Rea stood and crossed to the panel. Luckily, it was only halfway up the wall and the little girl could reach it. Once she had popped it open, Rose instructed her to step back as she scrutinized the revealed wires and connections.

With her hands bound, she was afraid to move too much - because of both the pain and her head injury. She had to reserve her strength. She would need it.

As she surveyed the connections and wiring, she tried to visualize the schematics of the shuttles on the Dominion. Fortunately, Rose always read the operating manuals of the ships and engines she worked on. Hux had liked to tease her about her 'light, bedtime reading.'

There.

She found the regulator that connected to the shuttle's power capacitor. If they could short out the regulator, the capacitor would quickly fail. And the only way to fix it would require that the shuttle land since it could only be accessed through the outer hull.

But it was too risky to sabotage it in hyperspace. Rose could only hope that the pilot would make one of the navigational stops like most other ships had to in the Unknown Regions. 

"Rea, have we been in hyperspace the entire trip?"

"No, they stopped a couple of times and will have to again soon."

"How do you know that?" Rose asked, perplexed by the girl's prediction.

The child shrugged, "I just do. I have…" She trailed off, looking uncertain for a moment before finishing, "I'm not supposed to tell."

"It's okay, Rea. If it can help me get you safely back home, you can tell me," she assured the child. Rose then added, with a conspiratorial smile, "and I am really good at keeping secrets."

The young girl spent the next few minutes explaining Third Sight and sky-walkers to Rose. If there had been time, she would have asked a thousand questions, but they had more pressing issues. She shouldn't have chided Hux for being so suspicious of Aristocra Latros' motivations, though, she thought, before returning her attention to the panel.

It really was annoying when he was right.

"Do you think you can predict when we need to drop out of hyperspace again?"

"Uh huh. If I concentrate."

"Okay. We need to short the regulator just as we are dropping out of hyperspace. We need to give the relays time to overload the power capacitor before the pilot tries to jump again."

Rose was explaining it less for the child's sake and more to hear it out loud. Her head ached terribly, and she needed to be certain that her plan made sense.

"How?"

"Here. Come take my pendant," Rose instructed. 

Haysian s-smelt. Best conductor.  

"When you feel like we're about to leave hyperspace, touch the regulator with my pendant. It will overload and short. Then hurry and close the panel and sit back down. Like nothing happened. Okay?"

The little girl nodded before reaching out and pulling the pendant over Rose's head.

She hated asking the child to do so much – she was barely older than Gaia. But it was the best plan Rose could come up with in the moment. Every parsec that they traveled took them further away from Hux and lowered the odds of him finding them in time.

Rose watched as the little girl sat, closing her eyes in concentration. She reminded her of Rey when she meditated. Her heart twisted at the thought of her friend. Rose missed her desperately, but she didn't begrudge her a moment spent with her Dyad. Second chances, she knew, were too precious. 

After a few moments, Rea's hands started to move - almost like a pilot's at the controls. Not long after, her eyes popped open and she exclaimed, "now."

"Hurry. Just touch the regulator with my pendant," Rose instructed. The part sparked slightly once Rea did as she was told, indicating that it had worked. "Okay, close the panel and sit back down the way you were earlier. Quick!"

Rose breathed a sigh of relief after Rea sat down again, looking innocent and fearful. She was even more relieved a minute later when Opan and another man in First Order uniform quickly entered the cabin.

"I don't know, sir. But the shuttle's diagnostics said that the power capacitor failed," the other officer told Opan.

"How? Was it sabotaged?" The Commander asked as he looked suspiciously at Rose. He also studied the cabin, clearly looking for any damage she might have caused.

"I don't see how, sir. It can only be accessed through the outer hull. We have to land somewhere close so we can have it assessed and replaced if necessary."

"Land on the nearest planet," Opan ordered.

"It's not inhabited, sir. And I can't make the repairs myself," the other man protested. "We need a mechanic."

Opan's gaze once again landed on Rose. "We have one."

~~

Shortly after, the shuttle landed, and Opan grabbed Rose's arm, yanking her to her feet. The pain was intense, but he didn't care - pulling her towards the landing ramp.

"Come on."

As the shock of pain receded to a dull ache, she heard Opan talking to another soldier as they exited the shuttle. 

"...Dura IV…uninhabited…abandoned mines nearby…"

Rose was busy evaluating their surroundings. They had landed in a valley between mountains - probably to provide cover from the cold winds. Through the purplish light, she could see some abandoned buildings scattered nearby as well as old mining equipment. Squinting through the snow flurries, she could even spot some mine entrances cut into the nearby rock.

"Get to work," Opan ordered, pushing her towards the side of the shuttle. 

Rose stumbled, her ribs and head aching from the jolt, before she turned around and raised her hands. "Small problem, asshole. I can't work with restraints on."

Opan frowned but stepped forward and unlocked the binders. As she rubbed her chafed wrists, discreetly assuring herself that the mono-molecular blade was still firmly in place, he looked to the other officer. "Watch her closely," Opan ordered before reentering the shuttle. 

Rose moved to the hull panel that would give access to the power capacitor. She had no intention of actually fixing it, but she needed to at least pretend that she was to buy them more time.

She shivered from the cold as she used the tools from the shuttle's repair kit the other man held. Luckily, she was wearing her coat from Sposia, but it was much colder here. Closer to Hays Minor than Sposia - she could probably last for a few hours in this climate before freezing. At least the cold was numbing her injuries, she thought. 

Moments later, though, Opan returned, tugging Rea with him.

"Take her back inside," Rose insisted. "It's too cold, and there's no need for her to be out here."

"Consider her to be your motivation," Opan responded. "The longer it takes for you to fix the shuttle, the longer she'll be out here with you."

Fuck the Force!

Like Rose, Rea had been dressed for Sposian weather. The girl was already shivering. 

"Watch the brat," Opan ordered the other man. "She'll keep the General's wife in line." With that, he turned back and reentered the shuttle, clearly not wanting to stay out in the cold weather himself. 

Rose didn't know what to do – she couldn't allow the shuttle to take off, carrying them further away from Hux. Nor could she let Rea slowly freeze out here. She had no doubt that Opan would hurt Rea to get Rose's compliance.

And then they'd be right back where they started - hurtling away from Hux and toward slavers. It was a fate worse than death.

She stalled, making a show of finding the power capacitor and examining it. The man had already admitted to knowing little about mechanics, so hopefully he couldn't see through her ploy.

As she worked, she let her gaze wander around the area again. If they could run and hide, it would give Hux time to locate them. She didn't know how he would do it, but she was confident that he would. 

Rose immediately dismissed the abandoned buildings - little more than storage sheds, really. Opan and his crew would be able to find them easily in one of those. But the mines were an option. Most beings didn't understand how confusing mine layouts were - the serpentine tunnels and interconnected shafts that went in every direction. If she and Rea could make it into one of the mines, Opan would have a very difficult time finding them.

Of course, so would Hux, but that was a concern for later. And the tunnels would keep them out of the worst of the wind and snow.

It was their best chance, she decided. 

"This capacitor is shot," she said, showing the shorted part to the officer. "I have to replace it, and the spare is in that compartment there." As she spoke, she pointed to a panel near the back of the shuttle. 

"Don't move," the man ordered as he moved to the designated compartment to retrieve the part.

Once he was a few steps away, Rose spoke quietly to the little girl. "Rea, do you see that mine entrance over there?" she asked, nodding in the right direction. At the girl's nod, she continued, "when I tell you to go, I want you to run as fast as you can and get inside it. I'll be right behind you."

The little girl nodded once again as the officer returned with the spare power capacitor. "Hurry up."

Rose took the part and reached into the compartment. Holding the capacitor, she told him, "I need the calibrator from the kit."

As he reached down to look in the kit, she carefully pulled the mono-molecular blade from her sleeve. It was tricky due to the bulky layers she was wearing, but it slid into her palm just as he straightened, calibrator in hand.

"Where-"

Rose moved quickly, bringing the blade up and stabbing it into the man's neck with all her strength. He was much taller than her, and the angle was awkward, but it was the only spot not protected by his uniform and coat.

She watched, horrified, as the man dropped the calibrator and instinctively reached for his neck. He surprised her when he grasped the handle and pulled the blade back out. The spray of blood that covered them both told her that she had at least nicked the artery.

Rose turned toward Rea. "Run!"

The little girl took off, and Rose was about to follow when she felt a tearing pain in her arm. She looked down to find Hux’s blade embedded in her shoulder. The guard fell to his knees as he continued to lose blood.

She had no time. He could call out or fire his blaster - either option would likely bring Opan and the others. So Rose followed Rea, running towards the mine entrance.

It wasn’t far, but she was still caught unawares when she almost ran into the little girl just over halfway to the entrance.

"Rea, move!" she urged frantically. 

"It's cracking," came the girl's response.

Rose immediately stilled. And listened. Sure enough, she could hear the familiar crackle of breaking ice. They hadn't landed in a valley, she realized with a pounding heart – they had landed on a frozen lake covered by snow.

It was likely an artificial lake or pond used for mine runoff. And the weight of the shuttle, in combination with the heat from its engines, had made the ice unstable. 

"Rea, listen to me. Slowly slide your feet across the ice instead of walking. Once you make it to the mine entrance, I'll do the same. If you hear more cracks, stop."

Time was too critical for them to slide on their stomachs for better weight distribution – she expected to hear their pursuers any moment. Rose watched in relief as the child did as instructed and reached the safety of the mine entrance. She hissed as she moved to follow, the shock of pain reminding her that she still had a blade sticking out of her. At least, the cold had numbed it for the most part.

Rose moved slowly, listening carefully to the ice. She had made it about three meters when she heard the crackling beneath her feet. She stilled and looked down but could see little because of the snow. The sound stopped and Rose breathed in a relieved sigh. However, before she could exhale, she was falling through the ice into the freezing water below.

All she could do for several seconds was panic, uselessly kicking her legs as she tried to scramble for the surface. Hux's mhaira was going to drown, she thought.

How ironic.

But that thought brought Hux to mind. And Gaia. And the a'lora.

Fuck that. She wasn't drowning. 

She calmed, remembering Hux's lessons, and started to propel herself to the surface. Luckily, it wasn't that deep, but she wasn't wearing bulky clothes and a coat during her lessons, either. Her lungs were burning by the time her head popped back over the water. 

She finally exhaled before gulping in more air. Rose tread water for a second before she saw Rea returning to help her. The child was still a good distance away - she must have been under the water for less than a minute, though it felt much longer. 

"Go back, Rea! It's not safe! I'm okay. I'm coming," she managed, treading water.

The child reluctantly obeyed, and Rose worked to pull herself out. It seemed to take forever, and she was completely exhausted by the time she got back on the surface of the ice. Rose just wanted to lie there and catch her breath, but the sounds of blaster fire and shouts from the direction of the shuttle galvanized her. 

She could barely stand with the weight of her drenched garments. Let alone run. But, somehow, Rose found the strength and sprinted for the mine entrance. She could still hear the ice cracking and breaking beneath her, but this time she was glad - Opan and his men would be slowed down by the unstable ice too.

She looked back to find Opan and one other officer making their way carefully across the ice. She and Rea had to move quickly.

Rose had grown up in mines - she understood their structure and layout. She had to. As a child, she had gotten lost in one of the mines her father supervised. She had panicked, running around and becoming even more lost until her father's team had found her by tracking her heat signature. 

But a place that you can get lost in is also a place you can hide in.

And young Rose had made it her mission to learn how to navigate tunnels so that she wouldn't get lost again. Depending on the species who built them, mine tunnels could be a tangled serpentine network or symmetrical pattern of clear angles. She would bet this was an old Chiss mining operation, and that meant it would be organized like the latter - logically and simply.

There were numerous tunnels and shafts off the main tunnel. Rose just needed to choose one. But they had to be able to find their way out, too.

She chose First, Right, and Down. They would choose the first tunnel on the right each time that tunneled downward. It was a simple plan, but Hux had always said that those were the best ones.

Hux.

He would find them. They just had to evade Opan long enough for Hux to get here.

With that thought, she began leading Rea through the tunnels. First, Right, Down. Over and over until Rose felt they could take a moment to rest. Rea had been brave so far, but Rose could see that the cold and the fear were taking a toll on the child.

"Sit down for a second and catch your breath, okay?"

The girl nodded gratefully and complied. Rose, however, had a problem. Stopping had only made her intensely aware of her own state - the pain in her head and ribs was still somewhat numbed. But she was wearing soaked clothing including her coat. And she had a knife protruding from her shoulder. She had cuts, scrapes, and bruises everywhere from her fights with Opan and the other man as well as from climbing onto the ice.

Rose took a moment to assess. She had to get rid of the coat at minimum – it would never dry and was heavy enough to slow her down. It would also speed up her hypothermia. They could only last a couple more hours, if that, in these mines without freezing to death, and Rose's wet state accelerated that likelihood significantly. 

But getting rid of the coat also meant pulling out the blade. She had not done that yet because it would mean heavier bleeding.

And it would hurt. Alot.

But she had no choice. She glanced at Rea to make sure she wasn't watching and found the child with her eyes closed - similar to her meditative pose on the shuttle. So Rose turned away and grasped the handle of the blade.

And pulled.

It took everything in her to keep from screaming - an act that would have scared Rea and alerted their abductors. The intensity of the pain was second only to childbirth, she thought, gritting her teeth and trying to breathe.

The baby. Please let her be okay, she prayed. 

After several minutes, Rose was able to shrug off the dripping coat. She then checked the wound - it was bleeding but not as much as she anticipated. Again, the cold was likely slowing down the process. But it was not a clean stab wound. Rather, the cut was jagged and torn, and Rose assumed that her efforts underwater had caused more damage.

But at least it looked like the cold would get her before her wounds. Small favors.

She was already shivering so much that it was hard to keep her teeth from chattering. Moving would help warm them up as well. She was about to tell Rea that they needed to move on when she heard a distant noise in the tunnels, coming from the direction they had taken. 

"Hurry," she urged the little girl.

They continued their pattern - right, first, down. Rose was on the lookout for anything that could be used as a weapon - mining tools or even explosives - but found nothing. It seemed the mine had been abandoned for some time. 

She was having a hard time holding the mono-molecular blade in her hand, and her gait was growing clumsier. Rose knew what that meant. Hypothermia. Time was running out. In addition, she was certain frostbite was setting in on her feet and possibly her fingers. She didn't even want to think about her face.

Rea seemed less affected – perhaps the Chiss were better suited for the cold. She was also dry and uninjured. Thankfully, the child wouldn't succumb to the cold as quickly as Rose.

Another noise alarmed Rose. They weren't losing whomever was behind them, and her thoughts were becoming muddled and confused. 

There really was only one option left.

Hux would hate her for it.

"Rea, listen, I want you to go on ahead. Stick to the pattern," she instructed. "I need to make sure we aren't being followed. I'll catch up."

"No," Rea argued. "We should stay together." Again, Rose wondered if the child's Third Sight contributed to her calm demeanor or whether she was just behaving like any Chiss would be expected to in a crisis.

"Gaia's father is going to find us. I promise," Rose reassured the girl. "He won't give up. He doesn't know how to."

"Not him. Your friend. She's coming."

Rose didn't understand what Rea meant, but she had no time to debate the matter further. 

"Rea, go. Now."

The child reluctantly set off, and Rose exhaled. She had to give the girl the best possible chance at survival that she could. She leaned down with a wince and picked up the coat with her good arm before backtracking a couple tunnels. 

She left the coat at the entrance of one as a diversion. Rose then went in another direction, trying to keep a mental map in her head. It was almost useless due to the fuzziness of her thoughts – she doubted that she would even have the chance to make it back out anyway.

She looked down to find that the wound was bleeding quite a bit now – her tunic was covered in blood.

But a part of her still clung to hope. Like she always did. There was still a chance Hux would find them in time. 

He was her hope.

She almost laughed aloud at that – knowing how much he would hate the sentiment. She also realized that the inappropriate humor meant her faculties were further gone than she thought.

Rose didn't have much time. 

She crouched down, blade in hand, and waited.

She thought about Gaia - Rose didn't worry about her little girl. Hux would take care of her, she was certain. She was just sad that she would miss so many moments with her. Wouldn't see her grow into the amazing person Rose knew she would.

Rose was worried about Hux. He would blame himself for all of this. 

And he would be so lost. Like he was when they first met. She hated what her absence would do to him.

And the a'lora. The galaxy would never even notice her absence. And that was the saddest thing of all. 

She thought of all the choices that had led her here. Out of thirty years, she had spent less than one year with Hux in total. How was it that the person in her life that she had known for the least amount of time would be the man who impacted it the most?

Rose wouldn't change anything, she thought. Except she would have liked to tell him she loved him one more time...and she wouldn't have agreed to the Canto Bight mission...but then she wouldn't have met Hux…

In a brief moment of clarity, she recognized that her mind was succumbing to the hypothermia and that she needed to fight it. But she couldn't, and a second later, her mind was once again racing with random thoughts about Hux and fathiers and foxes.

Rose was abruptly pulled from her scattered, meandering thoughts by more noise from the connecting tunnel. They were close. She also realized that she had somehow fallen from her crouched position to fully seated on the floor. 

She felt numb and weighted down, as if gravity had been dialed up. Rose couldn't even remember what she was waiting for. It took several moments to corral her thoughts and focus.

Even then, her mind kept returning to Hux. She had to hold on, she thought, her eyes drifting shut. He was coming.

He would be here. He…

She just needed to sleep, Rose decided. Her mind would work better after some sleep. But a small voice just kept saying, 'don't.' 

She whispered her last coherent thought out loud, "Save my life, Armitage."

"Too late," another voice said. Rose's eyes flew open to find Opan standing at the entrance to her tunnel, blaster in hand. "You're more trouble than you're worth. You and the brat in your belly."

With that, he aimed his blaster at her. In her mind, Rose spoke one last time to Hux, "I'm sorry, Armitage."

Just as she was about to close her eyes in acceptance, Opan suddenly jerked his attention and his blaster away from her and turned back to the other tunnel. Then, he was sailing through the air and slamming into the rock walls behind him.

Rose believed she was hallucinating. Especially when she saw the former Supreme Leader of the First Order enter the tunnel with her husband.

She even had tunnel vision, she thought, laughing out loud at her own pun. Hux would have just rolled his eyes at her bad joke.

She sobered at the thought of him. And then apologized one last time, hoping Hux would somehow hear her wherever he was in the galaxy.

"I'm so sorry."

Then she closed her eyes and let go.

Chapter Text

Hux gazed out the cockpit's transparisteel viewport as they breached the planet's atmosphere. 

I'm coming, mhaira. Hold on.

"I'm picking up a Xi-class drive signature on the planet," Solo remarked as he monitored the controls from the co-pilot's chair.

Solo and Rey had silently switched positions once they entered the system. When Hux had inquired about the reason, Solo stated that she was the better pilot in atmo. For a moment, their unspoken teamwork had reminded him of he and Rose.

"They'll see us coming on the radar," Hux replied.

"Not this ship," the Jedi countered. "Not if we enter atmo on the other side of the planet, and I hug the deck 'til we land."

That could work, Hux thought, if she was as good a pilot as Solo believed.  "Then set down a click away from the shuttle. We want the element of surprise. Less danger for Rose and the girl."

With that, he returned to the main cabin and instructed the soldiers to prepare, ordering one of them to stay behind and guard the ship. The Falcon landed without incident, and the rescue party began the hike to the First Order shuttle. 

They weren't moving as quickly as Hux wanted - the ice, snow, wind as well as his limp slowing them down. He was incredibly frustrated, and each step only brought more visions of Rose - cold, hurt, suffering. 

I'm coming. Hold on.  

They finally made it to the landing site, halting on a ridge overlooking the shuttle. It appeared that Opan had landed near one of the abandoned mining sites Aristocra Latros had mentioned. As they crouched down in the snow, Hux examined the area with macrobinoculars. He noted the buildings and old equipment as well as the entrances to the nearby mines.

"Two of them are outside the shuttle," one of the soldiers remarked as he, too, surveyed the scene. "Looks like they're trying to fix something but they seem to be arguing. I don't see any other…wait. A body on the ground. Deceased. First Order uniform - must be one of Opan's men."

Good girl.

"There's no approach where they won't see us coming," Solo observed as he, too, surveyed the area. "The hostages will be in danger if they see us."

"Can't you do one of your Force tricks?" Hux sarcastically replied.

"They're not tricks," the young woman argued.

"No," Solo replied, calmer than his partner. "We're too far away for me to knock them out cleanly."

Hux could see only two of Opan's men. They needed to incapacitate them and reach the shuttle before Opan discovered the bodies. 

"Sargeant, your rifle and sniper scope," Hux instructed.

"Sir," the man acknowledged as he passed the requested items to Hux.

"Maybe Ben or I should-"

"Hux is actually pretty accurate with a sniper rifle," Solo interrupted. "Meant he could stay a safe distance from the battle at least."

Hux was trying to ignore the Force users as he fitted the scope and got into a prone position. However, he couldn't prevent himself from replying to Solo's obnoxious comment as he eyed his targets. 

"I know it's difficult for you, Solo," he snidely replied, looking through the scope, "but do try and focus on the traitors down there. And I am not the deserter here."

"No, you just turned-"

"Not the time!" Rey pointed out, cutting Solo off. "And I don't think either of you should be talking about traitors and deserters, do you? Can we focus on rescuing Rose and the child?"

She was clearly exasperated with them. Rightly so, he admitted, chagrined. He had allowed himself to fall into the familiar sniping with Solo because it distracted him from his anxiety for Rose. 

"Indeed," he commented before turning his attention to the Sargeant. "Ranges?"

Acting as spotter, the man reported, "eighty-two meters, wind is southeast point seven."

Hux made the necessary sight adjustments, found the target, and exhaled slowly before squeezing the trigger. 

"Hit," the Sargeant confirmed. 

In less than a second, Hux switched to the second man, exhaled, and fired again. 

"Both targets down. No movement from the ground or the shuttle."

"Let's go," Hux ordered as he passed the weapon back to the soldier. 

The party moved stealthily to the shuttle. Once there, Solo and two soldiers entered while the others covered them. Hux knew from experience how effective Solo's Force skills were in close quarters. 

Moments later, the soldiers exited the ship alone. Hux's heart stopped beating – where was Rose?

Was she…?

"No one's on board, General." 

Hux was relieved but also confused. Where was Rose? Had there been more than one shuttle?

Solo followed a minute later, and Hux saw a set of binders in his hand as he exited. So Rose had been on board. Where was she?

He turned to survey the scene, looking for answers, and found Rey standing over one of the bodies.

"Looks like he was stabbed. And there are tracks in the snow - bloody ones - heading away."

So Rose had managed to stab one of them with his blade and run away with the child. Opan, at least, must have pursued them since neither he nor his body was here.

Hux followed Rey's gaze to the footprints she mentioned. It was more droplets of blood in the tracks than bloody footprints, but, regardless, it was blood. Was it Rose's? Or the man's she had stabbed? Both?

"The buildings?" Solo asked, pulling Hux's attention back to their surroundings. He studied the area for a moment. Rose was too smart to hide in those sheds – too obvious a choice. 

"No," he concluded, "towards those mines." It wasn’t too far. Rose could have stabbed the guard and taken the child to the mine to hide. Opan would have gone after them, leaving the two men to fix the shuttle. It made sense.

"Rose would have an advantage there - she basically grew up in mines," he elaborated.

"Smart girl," Solo commented.

"Quite."

But he had to find her before Opan did. "Sargeant, I want two men guarding the shuttle if they return. Send one man to search the buildings just in case. And inform the guard on the Falcon to stay alert – Opan may get desperate when he learns the shuttle was not repaired."

"Yes, sir."

"Let's go," he told the Force users as he began to follow the tracks and blood droplets. They needed to hurry - snow was falling again and would soon cover any tracks - but the hollow tap his cane made when it hit the ground made him pause. "Be careful, it's ice - possibly a frozen lake."

Hold on. I'm coming.  

It took longer than he wanted - they had to proceed carefully, testing their weight on the ice as they walked. Rey had assured him that they could use the Force to hold the ice together if necessary, but that, too, would slow them down. They were currently spread out, looking for the tracks again when Rey called out.

"Hux!"

He hurried over to her position. "What is it?"

The young woman pointed to the ground a few feet away. "Someone fell through the ice here."

Sure enough, there was a hole in the ice - the snow and ice around the hole disturbed as if someone tried to pull themselves out. 

"Rose can't swim," her friend commented - the worry evident in her voice.

"She can now," he assured her. And himself. "A bit." 

It might not have been Rose, he thought. Either the child or Opan could have fallen in the water. But then he recalled the Jedi's vision - she had described Rose as wet and shivering. Hux hadn't focused on that detail until now. 

He looked at the woman to find her knowing gaze already on him.

"At least one person climbed out," Solo stated, pointing at more footprints leading away from the hole. "See."

Hux’s relief at the evidence of Rose's survival was short-lived, though, when Solo continued, unaware that he was talking about Rose. "Whoever they are, they're probably hypothermic by now."

Hux knew it was true. He was almost frozen in his uniform and wool coat and gloves. Dry and unhurt. Rose would be soaking wet and possibly injured.

"Keep going," he instructed, trying to keep the panic out of his voice. Time was not on their side.

They hurried toward the mines, heedless of the ice's danger - each felt the urgency of Rose's likely condition. They stopped just meters away from the mine entrances, though - Hux, so frustrated that he wanted to yell. 

"Which entrance?" he demanded, his anxiety clear. "The snowfall has covered the tracks."

"Rey?"

Hux turned at Solo's query and saw the Jedi nod at him. 

"Hold on," she said before closing her eyes in concentration. She appeared to be meditating as she had done on the Falcon. After a minute, she opened her eyes and nodded towards the entrance to Hux’s right.

"Rea's Force signature is coming from that direction. I think she may have even felt me."

"Can you sense Rose?" he asked, recalling the story Rose once told him about how the idiots had known the Wookie was on the Steadfast.

"I can, so she must be close," the young woman confirmed. She paused, though, before adding anxiously, "it's faint."

Rather than letting his fear overwhelm him at that, though, Hux focused on the fact that Rose was still alive. And she was close. They entered the mine only to stop again at the multitude of tunnels leading further into the rock.

"Which tunnel did they take?" Solo asked.

"I can only sense a direction. Not a specific path."

At the Jedi's answer, Solo looked at Hux. "You know her. Which way would she go?"

Solo seemed confident that Hux would have the answer, and it was that confidence that cut through Hux’s panic and allowed him to think.

"Rose got lost in a mine once. She said the key was having a pattern. And she has a child with her - she would keep it simple. If we can determine her first move, we can extrapolate the pattern."

They spread out, looking for anything that might indicate which tunnel Rose and Rea had taken.

"Here! This must be Rose's. She must have dropped it." Rey was holding a wet piece of material. Hux recognized it when he drew closer - it was one of the hair ties Rose and Gaia often used.

He stopped and examined the tunnel's entrance. He then compared it to the others and analyzed the logistics. After a moment, the relevant variables became clear.

"First. Right. Down. That's the pattern."

Hold on. I'm coming.  

Neither of the Force users questioned Hux's conclusion. They simply moved on, following the pattern Hux laid out. After several tunnels, Solo stopped, his gaze on the ground.

"More footprints. It's not just Rose and Rea in the tunnels."

Hux had suspected that Opan, and possibly others, were pursuing Rose, but he had wanted to believe that she had lost them in the tunnels. The footprints meant, though, that Opan was somehow tracking Rose too.

"Hurry," he urged, once again moving deeper into the mine. They traveled further for several minutes until Rey stopped and closed her eyes in concentration. Hux waited impatiently for her to open them once again.

"Why did you stop?"

"They're not together anymore," she explained, pointing the way they had been headed. "Rea is still in that direction, but Rose is the other way."

"Fuck."

"I'll follow Rea's signature. You two find Rose," the Jedi instructed, moving towards the next tunnel in the pattern. Before entering, she turned back to Solo and said, "I'll let you know." 

Then she was gone. Solo turned to Hux and regarded him expectantly. "You know Rose best. Which tunnel?"

How the fuck was he supposed to know? Hux wanted to lash out. Solo's guess was as good as his right now.

"She changed the pattern. It's not logical."

"That was always your problem," Solo countered. "Stop worrying about logic. Rey found me on an astral plane, for kriff's sake. You know Rose. Which way?"

Hux wanted to take a swing at the other man. Possibly with his cane. Solo just stood there, watching him and waiting as if time wasn't critical. Frustrated, Hux looked around, trying to find anything that would tell him which way Rose went.

It didn't make sense. Why did they separate? Rose wouldn't leave the child unprotected. 

That's it.

She was trying to protect Rea. Rose was trying to lead Opan away from the girl. Which meant she would try and take him in the opposite direction. He looked around again.

"That one."

Solo followed without comment or question as Hux chose the tunnels he believed Rose had taken. If he was honest with himself, Hux knew he was operating on little more than a hunch and faith in Rose.

Two tunnels later, he stopped, spying something on the ground. "That's her coat."

He picked up the sodden coat and examined it. "Blood." 

"And on the ground," Solo pointed out, his voice as grim as Hux's had been. 

In the heavy silence that followed their discovery, Hux suddenly heard a voice. Opan's voice.

"...more trouble than you're worth…brat…belly…"

He dropped the coat and began running as fast as his leg allowed, Solo on his heels. 

They approached the next tunnel and found Opan standing near the entrance, holding a blaster. It was aimed at Rose. 

Before Hux could act, Opan was flying towards the rock wall. He hit hard, sending stone and ice flying, before he slid to the ground. Hux ran towards Rose.

"Hold on, mhaira. I'm here."

She was sitting on the ground, slumped against the wall, unconscious. Hux immediately checked for a pulse, exhaling in relief when he found one. Faint but there. He immediately began checking for injuries, finding several including a head wound and a knife injury in her shoulder.

When he checked her other arm, he found his mono-molecular blade still clutched tightly in her hand. His brave girl.

"He's alive." Hux briefly looked back to find Solo standing over Opan's body.

"So is she," he responded. "But injured. Extremely hypothermic. I can't wake her."

Solo walked over, visually assessing Rose's condition. "We need to get her back to the Falcon. We have some Force healing techniques that can help."

"Why not here?" The ship was a significant distance away. He was worried about moving Rose in her condition. 

"The hypothermia needs to be addressed before the other injuries, and I can't do much about that," Solo explained. "She needs to get warmed up on the ship."

He paused, a far away look in his eyes. After a moment, he turned back to Hux, a relieved look on his face.

"Rey's found the little girl. Frightened and cold but uninjured. She'll meet us at the mine entrance."

Though Hux, too, was relieved the girl was safe - and war with the Ascendancy avoided - he stayed focused on Rose. She remained unconscious, and he couldn't carry her. Not with his bad leg.

"I can carry her," Solo offered, as if he heard Hux's thoughts. He probably had. "You can bring Opan."

"We don't know if there are any more of Opan's men in the tunnels," Hux pointed out. He didn't like Solo's plan - didn't trust the man with Rose. But he saw no other options at present. 

"There was one more. Rey…dealt with him. I doubt there were more than that."

It seemed that Opan was the only survivor. 

Hux took out his commlink and contacted the Sargeant to give him an update of the situation. On hearing of Rose's condition, he informed Hux that one of the men had pilot training and could fly the Falcon to the mine. Hux worried about the stability of the ice, but Solo assured him that they could handle it if needed. 

Deciding that it was worth the risk, Hux ordered the Sargeant and the pilot to leave the shuttle and return to the Falcon. They would land it as close as they could. 

Hux could send a team later to collect the First Order shuttle and the bodies.

Once done, Hux kicked Opan's unconscious body until he finally woke. The former commander started to swing at him despite the blaster aimed at his head. When Opan's arm froze mid-swing, though, he looked around in confusion. His expression turned to shock and fear when he spied Solo. He stayed frozen while Hux restrained him with the binders Solo had found on the shuttle.

Once Solo released him, Opan jumped to his feet and attempted to run - only to be tripped by Hux's cane.

Hux looked down at Rose's abductor, sprawled on the ground. "Go ahead. Give me a reason."

Though he already had more than enough. But the focus had to be on getting Rose to the ship before it was too late. He would deal with her abductor later.

Much of the fight left Opan at that point, though the sneer never left his face.

They made their way back through the tunnels as quickly as they could, eventually meeting up with the Jedi, who carried Rea in her arms. The child seemed exhausted but unhurt.

Hux was certain that Rea's lack of injury was fully attributable to Rose.

They finally made it outside the mine, and, seconds later, the Falcon touched down. Hux hurried everyone onboard – he needed to take care of Rose immediately. He also didn't want the ship sitting on the unstable ice any longer than necessary. 

Rey set the child down next to the dejarik table and headed for the cockpit. He felt the ship lift off a moment later. 

"Lock him up in the cargo bay," Hux ordered, passing Opan off to the Sargeant.

He turned to find Solo laying Rose down on a bed in an alcove. All the anxiety and fear that he had suppressed so he could focus on finding her suddenly broke free.

"We need to warm her slowly," he informed Solo. "We need more blankets. Do you have warm compresses…bacta gel and pads…intravenous fluids we can warm?  We need to remove those wet garments."

Fuck. He was babbling like a fool, but he couldn't stop himself. Even Solo looked at him askance – though Hux wasn't sure if it was a reaction to his ranting or the idea of undressing Rose. Either way, Solo looked inordinately relieved when Rey returned from the cockpit. 

"I'll gather the supplies while, um, you two…" mumbled Solo as he hurried out. 

Hux immediately began stripping the wet garments away from Rose. He didn't want to hurt her, but his movements were abrupt and jerky. Frantic. He only realized his hands were shaking when the Jedi reached over and stilled them.

"She's alive," Rey assured him, meeting his panicked gaze calmly. Kindly. "Focus on that."

He took a breath. 

And another. 

Trying to control his racing heart. But it didn't help. The panic seemed to take on a life of its own. Out of his control.

He wanted to ask. 

He dreaded to ask.

"Rose said General Organa could tell she was pregnant with Gaia. Can you…" He couldn't bring himself to finish the question. He was terrified of the answer. 

Understanding, Rey placed a hand on Rose's abdomen. After a moment, she looked up at Hux and nodded, "the baby's still alive. I can sense her."

He calmed slightly at the news. His hands steady enough that he could finish undressing Rose while the Jedi fetched some clean clothes for her.

"You're going to be fine, mhaira," he told her. She was still unconscious and couldn't hear him, but it helped calm him to talk to her. "We just need to warm you up. Foolish woman. I see you decided to go for a swim. Not one of your best decisions."

"Here."

Hux looked up to find Rea standing nearby, holding Rose's pendant out to him. 

"We used it to stop the shuttle, and I forgot to give it back to her." 

He took the pendant, placing it over Rose's head much like he had done at their first encounter on the Supremacy. She had survived then, he told himself. She would survive this.

"Will she be alright?" the child asked.

Hux wanted to assure her. To say that Rose would be fine.

But she was so pale - the bruises and cuts standing out in stark contrast. Her blue lips matched the bruises that covered her arms and legs. And her skin. It was so cold.

They had to warm her slowly or the shock could cause her heart to arrest.

The Jedi returned, helping him place some loose garments on Rose. She then spoke to Rea before escorting the little girl away.

They passed Solo as he returned with the medical supplies. After depositing everything on a nearby counter, he regarded Hux for a moment before he, too, left.

He was grateful for the privacy. Hux felt compelled to care for Rose himself - an unwelcome voice telling him that it should just be the two of them if this was the end.

Ignoring it, Hux grabbed the warm compresses and began placing them around Rose. He then started rubbing her arms and legs gently, hoping the friction would help warm her. Seeing the pendant, he began his one-sided conversation again.

"So you did bring the shuttle down. Brave girl. The only person I know who would try and take down the enemy with a necklace. Twice. Can you hear me, mhaira? Can you wake up?" 

He was babbling again. Feeling more desperate and more panicked with each second that Rose remained unconscious. At least no one was here to witness his state - everyone else occupied with other duties and tasks.

He tried to distract himself, taking the bacta pads and applying them to her shoulder. Using the bacta gel on her head and the multitude of bruises and cuts covering her body. When he reached the deep bruise on her ribs, he wanted to vomit.

This was his fault.

He straightened her clothes as much as possible and pulled the blankets over her. He then sat down on the bed and took her hand, rubbing his own warmth into her cold fingers.

He could only wait. The likelihood that she wouldn't wake increasing with each minute that she didn't. 

Hux didn't know what else to do. He was not used to feeling helpless. Not since he was a child.

Just as he had done in prison, he kept his sanity by talking to her.

"You have to wake up, Rose. You have to be fine. I pinky promised your daughter that I would bring you back, so you need to wake up. You can't break a pinky promise." Hux could hear the panic rising in his voice again. What would he do if she didn't wake up?

She was everything. Nothing mattered without her.

"Come on, Tico, you're just being lazy. Don't be such a weakling. Wake up." He resorted to threats when she continued to lay there unmoving. "If you don't wake up, I'll throw Motto and Connix off the ship, and I'll demote Mitaka and Yarev. I swear I will. And I'll let Carise babysit your daughter. I'll attack the Coalition, Rose. I'll start a war with the Ascendancy. I'll seed every hyperlane in the galaxy with my mines. I'll make myself Emperor and make Gaia a princess if you don't wake up and stop me. Rose! Wake up!"

He was practically shouting at the end, his voice hoarse. Hux knew he sounded crazy. He didn't care. He'd prefer insanity to being without Rose.

And, finally, his last bit of self control slipped away. The tears he had been holding back began slipping down his checks, falling on their joined hands.

Hux couldn't recall the last time he cried. Arkanis? Jakku? Certainly, it had been over three decades since he had allowed himself to show such weakness.

Pathetic. 

Rose, of course, would tell him not to listen to a ghost. That it wasn't weak. That it was brave to show emotion. That he didn't do so enough. 

He should have told her he loved her.

He had been such a stubborn, fearful fool.

He wanted to tell her now but wouldn't allow himself to do so. He wouldn't let the first time he said it be when Rose couldn't hear it. He would be saying it for himself instead of for Rose. 

Instead, as the tears continued to fall, he begged, "mhaira, don't leave me. I need you."

When she still didn't respond, he closed his eyes and prayed. To what or whom, he didn't know. Maybe the Force. Maybe the old Arkanis gods. Maybe his ancestors. It didn't matter. He had been stripped of all his pride – he would have prayed to the Hutts if they would save Rose.

He had no idea how much time had passed when he heard her voice.

"You're leaking."

His eyes flew open to find her watching him. "Rose."

"Something's wrong with your eyes. They're leaking," she repeated. Her voice was hoarse and her eyes looked at him in bemused concern.

"Clearly a malfunction on my part," he assured her, feeling hysterical laughter trying to escape his own throat. 

She would live.

"You better get that fixed," she solemnly told him before looking around and taking in her surroundings. "This feels really familiar - except you're not Finn."

"I should hope not," he indignantly replied, still trying to keep from laughing with delight.

She smiled at him and squeezed his hand. "You found me."

"I love you."

Fuck. 

He had blurted it out like a fool.

"I know."

"I should have told you sooner. I should-"

Rose cut him off before he could start rambling again. "Shh. It's okay. We're togeth…wait. The baby!" 

Frantically, she reached for her abdomen, her expression fearful.

"The a'lora is fine," he assured her. "Your friend, Rey, checked."

"Rey?" she repeated, clearly confused by the mention of her absent friend and not yet making the connection with the ship.

"Hey, Rosie. How do you feel?" Hux turned slightly to find the Jedi standing nearby. He stood, unwilling to relinquish her hand, and she approached the bed. "We have to stop meeting like this," she said in a teasing voice, reaching out to stroke Rose's forehead.

"I think it hurts worse this time," Rose replied with a wince.

"I bet. We'll see what we can do about that. I should be able to heal-"

"Rey, no," Solo interrupted the Jedi as he rejoined them in the cabin. "It's not safe."

"I wasn't hallucinating," Rose remarked, staring at Solo. Staring a little too long, in Hux's opinion.

"You worry too much, Ben," Rey countered, rolling her eyes.

"I have cause. You're too impulsive - all of you." Solo's gaze included Rose as he made his opinion clear. Hux found himself in the annoying position of agreeing with his former rival. "Sometimes, I wonder how your side managed to win the war."

"Ben."

"See. Hux agrees with me." Until that comment, Hux hadn't even been aware that he was nodding in agreement. 

He immediately stopped.

"What are all of you talking about?" Rose asked, her forehead creased in confusion. 

"Some Force users have the ability to heal," the Jedi explained. "Ben and I can heal each other because of the Dyad. And we have had success healing others with Force sensitivity. It may not be as effective for you, and your pregnancy makes it a little tricky. But I could help you at least start healing. If Ben would let me," she added with a grumpy look at Solo.

Hux didn't know what a Dyad was, and he was skeptical of so-called Force healing. But if it could help Rose even the slightest bit, he was willing to suspend his disbelief. 

Solo, ignoring Rey's last comment, stated, "I'll do it. We dropped out of hyperspace to take readings anyway."

Rey looked resigned as Solo approached Rose's bed. Hux couldn't prevent his muscles from tensing at the man's proximity to Rose. Hux knew it was illogical – he had carried Rose to safety earlier. He reached out his arm in a manner similar to when he interrogated Carise.

"Solo," he warned.

"He won't hurt me, Armitage."

Rose always had too much faith in people. Of course, she would have argued that he didn't have enough. But trust had to be earned.

"I'm just using the Force to determine the extent of her injuries and which ones should be prioritized," Solo explained. Hux was struck by the patience in his tone – something he had never before heard from the man.

"The Force! Rea - where is she?" Rose was looking fearfully around the cabin when her friend answered. 

"Sleeping in the crew quarters. She's fine."

Rose still looked agitated, though. She gripped his hand harder and pulled him closer until Hux was leaning over her. When she spoke, he could hear the urgency and fear in her voice.

"He was going to sell her. Opan. He was going to sell both of us to slavers. He knew I was pregnant and that it could start a war, and he didn't care. He was going to do it anyway." Rose's words were rushed, revealing her anxiety, and he quickly reassured her.

"He won't hurt you ag-"

"He's done it before! He said he used to take children from the stormtrooper program and sell them to traffickers. He was going to do that to Gaia."

Hux froze, absorbing what Rose had said. The horrors and depravity that slaves endured were unimaginable. Especially for child slaves. Opan had sold children from the Order? And planned the same for Gaia?

"Opan won't hurt anyone again," he assured Rose, his jaw clenched tightly. Hux then turned to Rey and Solo. "Will you stay with her?"

"Sure," Rey answered, taking his place by Rose's side. He walked over to the table and picked up the mono-molecular blade he had found in Rose's hand in the mine. 

He then headed toward the cargo bay.

"Where-" Rose began, but Rey, guessing his intent first, called out.

"Hux, wait!"

Hux simply ignored her, but he heard Solo say, "let him go, cyar'ika. I would do the same."

Hux entered the cargo bay and dismissed the First Order soldier who had been guarding Opan. He was full of fury, but it was contained. As cold as the planet where Rose almost died. He approached Opan, halting just a step away from where he sat, restrained, on the floor. 

Hux stiffly crouched down despite the pain that shot through his leg as he did so. He wanted to look Opan in the eye for this.

"How many?"

"What?" Opan sneered. 

"How many children did you sell to slavers?"

"I lost count," came the flippant reply.

 "Why?"

Hux didn't know what compelled him to ask that question. In the end, it didn't matter. But he needed to know.

"Not all of us had wealthy stepmothers to inherit from or access to First Order accounts. Some of us had to claw and scrape for our futures." The resentment on Opan's face was clear to see. 

"As if I didn't," Hux countered.

"Please. You betrayed the First Order, but suddenly, you waltzed back with your sweet little family and all was forgiven. 'Look, everyone, he's a husband and father - we can trust him now.' It was disgusting."

Plain jealousy and resentment. Hux was familiar with Opan's motivations – they had once been his own. 

Until Rose.

"So you took Rose and Gaia to get to me. That, Commander, was a serious lapse in judgment."

"They would have also brought me a pile of credits." Opan suddenly smiled, and he leaned forward slightly, his expression one of unadulterated hatred. "Especially your daughter. Pretty girl with all that red hair. And so young. She would have been really popular with a certain cli-"

Hux lowered his arm, and watched as Opan's smile was replaced by shock. It was Hux's turn to smile as he wiped the blood from his blade on Opan's coat. 

He watched as more blood began to pour from the slit in Opan's throat. 

He watched until the life was gone from his eyes.

Avoiding the growing pool of blood, Hux carefully stood. He paused and looked at the blade in his hand - the blade that injured Rose - before dropping it next to Opan's body. It had seen enough violence today. As he walked out of the cargo bay, he gave orders to the guard before heading to the fresher.

He wouldn't return to Rose with blood on his hands.

~~

"How do you feel?" he asked her later, his hands and conscience clean.

"Better," Rose answered with a soft smile. "Ben healed what he could, but he said something about the a'lora and the Force and stopped. I really didn't catch it. But between that and the bacta, it doesn't hurt as much."

He had passed Solo moments ago in the passageway. The man had given him an odd look - almost sympathetic. Hux attributed it to his actions in the cargo bay. Whatever the reason, he was grateful. Rose did indeed appear better – her eyes were brighter and her color had improved.

"Good."

"But I'm still cold. I can't seem to get warm." She looked at him expectantly, and he sighed before climbing into the bed with her. He pulled her gently against him and wrapped his arms around her, careful of her ribs and shoulder.

"No kicking."

He could feel her laughter against his chest as she tried to snuggle closer. 

For as long as he could remember, Hux had felt cursed, for lack of a better word. As if the galaxy had specifically singled him out for misery. He had never been surprised when bad things happened - he expected it.

But Rose had surprised him. He kept waiting for her to be taken away from him, too. Yet here she was, safe in his arms.

She had been given back to him. They were all gifts - Rose, Gaia, the a'lora - and, suddenly, Hux was no longer cursed. He held her and felt nothing but gratitude to the galaxy. The Force. Even Solo, for kriff's sake.

After a few minutes, Rose spoke again.

"Speaking of stab wounds," she began. Hux rolled his eyes at her lack of subtlety. They had not been speaking of stab wounds. "Where is, um, your mono-molecular blade?"

"Jettisoned out the airlock. Along with Opan's body."

She said nothing - no recriminations or expressions of relief - as she pressed herself closer to him.

Finally, she said, "don't let me go."

"Never."

~~

"Mami!"

Gaia's happy yell could be heard throughout  the Falcon, as she raced through the ship to her mother. She immediately scrambled onto the bunk where Rose remained. 

She was followed by Yarev, Motto, and Aristocra Latros. Upon seeing her grandmother, Rea exclaimed, "Noni," as she launched herself at the older woman. 

The normally stoic Chiss politician had tears in her eyes as she embraced her granddaughter. 

"Not too tight, Gaia," Hux admonished Gaia quietly, seeing her squeeze her mother in a tight hug. "Your mother needs time to recover."

He regretted his choice of words when a concerned look replaced the joy on his daughter's small face. She turned to Rose and anxiously asked, "are you alright?"

"I am," Rose assured her as she smoothed the hair away from her daughter's forehead. "Your papa's just being extra careful."

It was partially true. Solo's Force healing had been more effective than Hux had expected, and Rose's head and ribs were well on their way to being fully mended. Though still weak, she had slept much of the trip back and was rested.

Her shoulder wound was worrisome - it was responding slowly to the bacta, and Solo was reluctant to try more healing, citing her pregnancy as a complication. It was the reason they were still on the Falcon – Hux insisted that a doctor check her before she was moved.

He was also reluctant to have Solo parading around the Dominion again. Hux was grateful for Solo's actions in saving Rose, but it only went so far. The former Supreme Leader and his mystic beliefs were not welcome back to the First Order. 

"You found her, papa! You said you would and you did!"

Hux scooped up his daughter and told her, "pinky promises are not made lightly, ta'ima. But your mami needs to rest." With a kiss on the forehead, he set his daughter back down.

His wife looked to the Force users and asked, "Rey, Ben - will you stay?"

Hux frowned - Rose needed rest and medical care, not guests. Certainly not one specific guest. "Rose, you need to rest."

Rose looked like she was about to argue when their daughter approached the Force couple. Instead of Rey, though, Gaia stopped in front of Solo.

"You're Ben?"

Solo looked shocked that the small child was speaking to him. Finally, he replied, "yes?"

Gaia smiled in response and said, "I'm Gigi," before holding her arms up and looking at Solo expectantly. 

Solo looked terrified. 

Hux was fucking delighted.

The former Leader looked to Rey for help, but she simply raised her eyebrows in the universal expression for 'don't look at me.'

It was clear why Rose and she were friends. 

Solo eventually conceded, picking up Gaia under her armpits and holding her aloft - as one would a bomb. Kriff, compared to his own first attempt, it made Hux look like Father of the century.

He quickly walked over and snatched his child out of the man's amateur hold. "Idiot."

Between giggles, Rose repeated her request. "Please, stay."

Hux was about to intervene when Latros spoke up. "Actually, I was hoping you both could give Rea and I a ride back to Sposia. Her parents are desperate to see her, and we would welcome you as guests. I would like to discuss some things."

Rey looked at Latros in surprise. "Like?"

"I would like to speak with you both about an opportunity," she explained. "The Stybla family has a proposition you might find interesting. At least come for a few days - the General and his wife can visit with you on Sposia."

Hux wasn't actually surprised by the Aristocra's offer - he had expected something like it once he learned about the Chiss' sky-walkers. The timing, though, was unexpected. 

"And the treaty negotiations, Aristocra?"

"I'm sure you will be focused on your wife for the next few days," she pointed out. "I will provide the Four Families with a plausible reason for the delay. The treaty will be signed within the week. Particularly if there are additional incentives," she added with a look at the Force users.

Of course, Aristocra Latros would attempt to  turn a crisis into an opportunity. She was Chiss, after all. Hux, though, didn't know how he felt about the possibility of Solo and Rey remaining in the Unknown Regions. 

"We accept," Rey replied, stepping close to Solo.

Just then, the doctor Hux had commed for arrived on the Falcon. Like everyone else, he looked both uncertain and awed by the ship and its occupants.

It was just a ship, Hux thought grumpily. Regardless, the doctor approached Rose and began his examination. The Force users left for flight checks, and Hux set Gaia down by Latros and her granddaughter. 

"A moment, Aristocra," he requested. At her nod, they stepped away, giving the doctor a bit of privacy for the examination. 

"I would like to make a request. It involves Carise Sindian's future."

"The Stybla would very much like to be part of that conversation, General," she responded with a smile that could only be described as predatory. 

~~

"I'm not an invalid," Rose complained later, from her place on the bed.

He had just finished putting Gaia to bed with a recuperating Millisecond. She had fallen asleep halfway through the old Arkanis folktale he had been telling her. 

When he returned to their room, he was pleased to find Rose in the same spot he had ordered her to remain. She, however, was not so happy. 

"Actually, that is exactly what you are," he responded. 

The Dominion doctor had been surprised and pleased with Rose's Force-enhanced healing but had advised rest for several days.

"He said I was in remarkable shape."

"Remarkable shape for what you've been through," he corrected as he changed clothes. "And he said your core temperature was still a little low, that you needed rest, and that he expected to see you in medbay for scans on your shoulder and head tomorrow."

The doctor had initially suggested a brief turn in a bacta tank, but Rose had panicked at the idea. Remembering her fall through the ice, Hux hadn't argued with her refusal. 

Instead, once the doctor had checked her injuries and giving her medication for pain and infection, Hux had insisted that they return to the Leader's quarters to rest. After her friend promised Rose that they wouldn't leave the Unknown Regions until seeing her again, she and Solo had accompanied Aristocra Latros and her granddaughter back to Sposia.

He would find out if his suspicions regarding the Aristocra's plan were accurate in a few days when they returned planetside.

"I'm fine," she insisted. 

"Then have a care for your husband. I am not."

"Too much excitement for you, old man?"

"Rose," he sighed, sitting down next to her. 

She must have heard something in his tone - perhaps his guilt or fear. Her teasing smile slipped away as she regarded him.

"I know. I'm sorry. I'm just not used to being taken care of."

"Then you're due," he concluded. "You and the a'lora will simply have to become accustomed."

Rose had been taking care of everyone else, including him, for too long. It was his turn to focus on her. She, however, looked appalled by that suggestion. 

"Please tell me you're not going to hover for seven months."

"I do not hover," he insisted. "But I have read-"

"Oh no," she laughed, pulling him down to lay next to her. He acquiesced, turning on his side and pulling her back against him.

She let out a contented sigh, followed by a yawn. "I'm exhausted."

He wouldn't be surprised if she slept for days, he thought, as he breathed in her familiar scent and caressed her stomach. 

"I almost lost you."

"You found me." Another yawn. "I knew you would."

"Why were you so certain?" 

He had definitely not been.

"Because you love me, dummy."

He couldn't argue with any part of that.

Chapter Text

Tatooine - Four Months after Exogol 

"Maybe she'll have red hair."

"I don't know whether I'd want that or not," Rose told her friend as they watched Tatooine's twin suns set. It was a bittersweet ritual for her – the two suns reminded her of other twins. Hays Minor and Hays Major. Eiram and E'ronoh. Which led to thoughts of her parents and Paige and, of course, Hux. She had lost so much. 

But she had also gained, she acknowledged, as she rubbed the spot over her ribs where it seemed the baby's foot was perpetually wedged.

When Rey sent her a curious glance, Rose elaborated. "I would look at her every day and see Hux. And I would look at her every day and see Hux." 

She knew Rey would understand what she meant. Grieving people seemed to share a language - understanding each other when others didn't. 

Or couldn't. 

Or when others disapproved of their grief. Made them feel ashamed of it.

"I think that's inevitable," her friend pointed out. 

"Yeah. I wonder how much like him she'll be. Will she be plotting galactic domination before she's on solid foods?"

Rey laughed before reminding Rose, "she'll be like you too."

"Poor kid."

"Brilliant. Loving. Loyal. Brave. And a terror with an electro-shock prod."

Rey's support reminded Rose that she didn't know what she would have done these last months without her friendship. And Peli's, of course.

When she and Rey had first landed on Tatooine in Peli's hangar, the older woman had gotten one look at the two lost girls and taken them under her wing. When she found out that they were both proficient mechanics, she had hired them immediately, citing a desire to retire.

When she learned Rose was pregnant, Peli had insisted that they move into her home. Both different and similar in ways to Leia, she was exactly who the two motherless girls had needed. Thinking of her, Rose was reminded of the hour.

"We should head back soon. Peli won't be happy if her cooking gets cold," Rose said.

Rey nodded in agreement, her gaze moving from the sunset to the homestead nearby. Since arriving on Tatooine, Rey had been coming out to the abandoned Lars farm. Rose accompanied her often, helping Rey clean and repair the machinery. 

Rose, however, worried that her friend spent too much time there.

"It's not healthy to spend so much time with ghosts," she had told her friend after Rey mentioned meeting the old woman and claiming the Skywalker name. Rey had smiled and reminded Rose of her own impetuous kiss and declaration of love for Finn.

"It was just an impulse in the moment, you know. Wanting to belong," she had assured Rose. "And I wish he was a ghost. It would be easier. He's just gone, but I can still feel him out there."

Rey didn't need to explain who 'he' was.

"And I'm not the only one with ghosts," she had added.

It was true - in many ways, Rose was still on the Fortitude, watching as Hux’s ship exploded and he died. She saw the fireball sweep through the command deck every time she closed her eyes.

Another kick to her ribcage brought her back to the present, and she adjusted her posture on the blanket they were sitting upon. She studied her friend for a moment before speaking. 

"He's not here, Rey," she quietly said. "If there's any chance of finding him, it's not here." Rey had explained a bit about the Force and death to Rose, describing how Ben had faded away. Rose didn't understand it - not really - but the galaxy had seen stranger things, so she believed her friend. 

"I know. But I have no idea where to even start looking yet. I'll find him - someday," she assured Rose with a brave smile. "Until then, I have other priorities." Her response was accompanied by a pat to Rose's abdomen. 

At least Rey had hope, she thought. Rose had none for Hux – there was no magical mechanism by which he could have survived. And knowing Hux, he would have spit in the Force's eye before accepting its assistance anyway. 

Rose's hope was all for his daughter. The child would know how much she was loved and wanted every second. He would have made a good father, she believed, despite his fears and insecurities. 

Perhaps even because of them.

They stood, preparing to head back to town in the speeder. Rose was stretching, trying to ease the intensifying ache in her back, when Rey caught her attention. 

"Rose!" she exclaimed, pointing at the spot on the blanket where she had been sitting. 

The wet spot.

Oh.

~~

Seven Months Later

"Hugs!"

Hux turned, clenching his jaw to prevent himself from replying as he wanted. Dameron, unfortunately, was a member of the Coalition delegation and, thus, needed to be treated with some politeness. 

Some.

He found both Dameron and FN-2187 - Finn, he reminded himself - hurrying towards him. 

"What do you want, Dameron?" he demanded with no attempt to hide his impatience. Some.

Hux had just left the meeting room, accompanied by Lieutenant Mitaka, Ms. Connix, and Lieutenant Stynnix, after hours of negotiations. He was tired, sore, and anxious to check on Rose.

"I want to talk to Rose," the man explained. 

Hux almost laughed out loud. That was simply not going to happen. Although, he mused, it would serve the idiot right – Rose would tear him to pieces. Only a few days from her due date, his wife's temper was easily aroused. Lately, she had been annoyed and impatient with everyone but Gaia and, oddly, Lieutenant Mitaka. 

Hux hadn't wanted to leave her for the Summit meetings, but she actually seemed relieved and had practically pushed him out the door. 

"Go bother the Coalition reps instead of me," she had snarked.  

So Hux was here at the Sposian Summit - more commonly referred to as the 'Tri-Talks' - discussing peace proposals with the Ascendancy and Coalition while his wife was due to deliver their second daughter any day.

These were only the initial meetings - there would be many more in the coming months - but they were still vital. 

Shortly after the First Order and the Ascendancy had formalized their alliance, the Coalition approached the Chiss with a formal apology for the debacle with the battle group. The Ascendancy eventually, and strategically, accepted the apology but made it clear that they would honor the treaty with the First Order and its mutual defense clauses. An attack on the Order was an attack on the Ascendancy. 

Ultimately, the Chiss had proposed tri-lateral peace talks with the Ascendancy acting in the role of mediator. It was likely the only way to bring both the First Order and the Coalition to the table – few nations were as universally respected, and feared, as the Ascendancy.

Hux and Latros had worked diligently behind the scenes, pushing for the summit. Rumors of Hux's hyperspace mines were allowed to leak, making the Coalition nervous enough to come to the negotiating table. 

Hux wasn't interested in peace as much as stability. For the Order and the galaxy. And there would be none as long as the Coalition pursued the First Order. 

Of course, the Ascendancy would also greatly benefit from brokering a peace treaty between two of the strongest militaries in the galaxy. It elevated their position and opened up numerous opportunities. 

They were also viewed as one of the only nations with both the might and will to hold the two antagonists to the terms of a treaty. It was the Ascendancy's role as guarantor for the First Order's behavior that finally convinced the Coalition that a treaty might work this time. And, in doing so, the Chiss earned both the First Order and the Coalition as allies against dangerous aggressors like the Grysk and the Vagaari in the Chaos.

If it worked, the treaty would signal a new era in the galaxy.

But it could take months, if not years, to achieve. In the meantime, he had to deal with the two morons in front of him.

"That's not going to happen, Dameron," Hux replied. 

"Will she talk to me?" the former trooper asked.

"There are security concerns," Connix explained before Hux could say something rude. "And Rose is really close to her delivery date - we don't want her stressed."

Lieutenant Mitaka's fiance was much more diplomatic than Hux would have been. It was one of the reasons she was participating in the discussions despite not holding a formal position in the Order. Her experiences with  both the First Order and the Coalition made her an effective negotiator, respected by each side.

Though, perhaps, not by Dameron if the look he sent her was any indication. 

The trooper added, "that's one of the reasons we wanted to see her." He held up a box, saying, "and to give her this for the baby."

"Perhaps you can see her at the next round of negotiations," Lieutenant Mitaka offered.

Dameron surprised them by stating, "we won't be there. Finn and I are resigning our official positions with the Coalition in the next few weeks."

"Why?" asked Lieutenant Stynnix. 

After Carise's arrest, the lieutenant had been assigned as an aide on Hux's staff. The young woman's outgoing and talkative disposition grated on Hux, frankly. But she was competent and Rose liked her. In fact, he sometimes suspected that she worked more for his wife than for him, keeping Rose appraised of everything. 

Rose actually had her own personal network of contacts everywhere - even among the Chiss. It turned out that she was quite the little spymaster – even more effective than when she had been his handler in the war. Rose was always bringing him information and fresh perspectives from voices that would otherwise not be heard.

"Poe and I decided that we could do more good outside the government," the trooper answered. "We're going to be working with an organization to fight slavery in the Outer Rim. Poe is going to work on ways to disrupt and discourage slavers and traffickers, and I am going to focus on rehabilitation programs for former slaves."

"That's wonderful," Connix replied as the others nodded in agreement. "Rose will be so happy to hear that."

Fuck.

She will be thrilled, Hux acknowledged. And these two morons would be forgiven and be back in their lives in no time. Perhaps he and Solo could work together to prevent that – Solo was no admirer of these men either. 

Hux was about to comment when his commlink chimed. 

"Hux," he answered, though if his racing heart was any indication, he already suspected the identity of the caller. 

Therefore, he was surprised when Peli's voice came over the channel. "It's time, Red. Get home." And, with that, she disconnected. 

He was immediately concerned. Why hadn't Rose commed herself? Was everything alright?

"I…" he began, at something of a loss.

"Go," the trooper ordered, handing the gift to Hux. "Give her this and our love."

Hux nodded, already turning to the exit, followed by his staff. He heard Mr. Mitaka comm Aristocra Latros to tell her of the situation so she could postpone further meetings. His mind was racing, worried about Rose and the a'lora. 

"Is the medical staff en route?" he inquired once they were in the air car.

It had been a compromise with Rose – she had wanted to give birth at home instead of a medbay or hospital - home at the moment being the residence on Sposia. Hux had only agreed if there was a fully trained medical staff to handle the delivery. 

Once Lieutenant Stynnix assured him that the medical team was on its way from the Dominion, Hux's mind began reviewing everything he had learned about childbirth and babies over the last seven months.

Just as he did when planning military strategy or designing technology, he had researched and learned all he could. Unfortunately, there was a great deal of confusing, and even contradictory, information about human childbirth and rearing. Rose had laughed at his frustration, reiterating her confidence in the 'learn as you go' technique. 

"Trust me, it doesn't matter how much you read or learn," she had assured him. "You're never ready."

Ignoring her, he had done all he could to prepare. It hadn't been easy. Between the treaty with the Ascendancy and the establishment of the First Order as a permanent nation in the Unknown Regions, he had been incredibly busy.

The Order also now had several permanent settlements and bases in nearby systems. His family had spent time there as well as on the Dominion and Sposia. Hux knew that Rose looked forward to the time when they could permanently settle into the home on Eiram. And if there was a treaty with the Coalition when the five years was reached, it would also mean less worry regarding their travel and safety outside the Unknown Regions where they were protected by the Order and the Ascendancy. 

Rose had been adamant that they adhere to her Five Year Plan, even when he had argued for leaving the Order immediately after she had healed from Opan's attack. 

Hux had been driven by guilt, but the attack and abduction seemed to have only strengthened Rose's resolve. The stubborn woman would not change her mind, proving once again that she was a fighter.

As they transferred from the air car to the boat, he kept his impatience and anxiety at bay by reflecting on the past seven months. It hadn't been easy. Once the Order and the Ascendancy had signed the treaty, Hux had begun the arduous task of transforming the First Order from a military into a nation. 

In addition, the Supreme Council had selected him to the new position of Council Chair a few months ago. While the Council, which now included Yarev, still made final decisions, it was Hux who set their agenda.

"Would you like to review the report on prisoner S-1667?" Lieutenant Stynnix inquired, interrupting his anxious thoughts about Rose and the baby.

The prisoner in question, of course, was Carise Sindian - former Senator, Councilor, and Lady. Current guest of the Chiss at one of their prison work camps.

Hux couldn't think of a better punishment for the stuck up and xenophobic woman than to have her surrounded by a species whose convicts even viewed Carise as inferior. She had been sentenced to a life term of hard labor, though Rose, with her bleeding heart, had assured that the Chiss were in compliance with prisoner rights.

As the Chiss had outlawed capital punishment as a criminal sentence, they had created an admirable and efficient penal system. Hux was already looking at it as a model for the First Order. 

"Anything new reported?"

"No, sir."

"Then just file it," he ordered, wishing to give no more thought to Carise or her circumstances.

He still needed to occasionally deal with Expansionist plots and protests, but the movement had been largely discredited after Opan's attack. And Carise's imprisonment had created a leadership vacuum that had yet to be filled.

Hux didn't delude himself in believing that the Expansionists would simply disappear. There would always be extremists as well as opportunists, like Opan, who would profit from war. Thus, it was his job to keep them in check. The Summit assisted him in doing so.

Seeing the dock and house in the distance, he breathed a relieved sigh. Almost there.

~~

Hux, Mitaka, and Connix entered the home to find Rey waiting for them - Lieutenant Stynnix had remained outside to greet the medical staff from the Dominion.

"Where's Rose?"

"She said she needed some air," Rey answered with a nod towards the rear of the house. When he began walking in that direction, she added, "and she said she wanted ten minutes without someone hovering." The last part was said with a pointed look in his direction. 

He did not hover. He was solicitous. He was interrupted, though, before he could once again explain the difference. 

"Your wife is mean, Hux," Solo announced, walking in from the kitchen, his infant son in his arms.

After Rose's rescue, they learned that Solo's overprotective reaction to Rey's use of Force healing was because she too was pregnant. The child, Bail Owen - simply called Bo - was born over a month ago.

Personally, Hux thought 'Bo Solo' sounded inane, but apparently the Force couple wanted to honor the child's namesakes. Something about love being more important than bloodline or genetics. 

Hux watched as Solo held the infant to his chest with one hand. His confident hold of the boy was in sharp contrast to the way he still held Gaia as if she was about to explode. Hux had yet to decide whether Solo's uncertainty with his daughter was because she was a girl, part Hux, or all Gaia.

The confidence was also in contrast to Solo's incessant questions over the past few months. The man had been constantly comming and bothering Hux with questions about babies despite Hux's continual, annoyed reminders that he had not been present for Gaia's first years.

Unfortunately, it was impossible to simply ignore him completely. The two Force users had taken Aristocra Latros and the Stybla family up on their offer. The Chiss wanted to determine whether different training methods and techniques would be more effective for their sky-walkers. Rey spent her time working with the girls, while Solo was often busy researching the differences between his understanding of the Force and Chiss Third Sight. 

It seemed like esoteric nonsense for the most part, but even Hux had become slightly interested when Solo mentioned that he was studying how midichlorians interacted with different species' genetic structures. That, at least, involved science. 

But despite the aggravation of having Solo in the Unknown Regions and, specifically, on Sposia, the overall situation suited Hux's purpose. So long as the Jedi, or whatever they called themselves, were here, the Coalition could not ally itself with them for either propaganda or practical purposes. 

The Jedi would not be the defenders of the government as they had been in the Republic. Any government. It was one of the few areas that they had all agreed upon - especially important now that the Force users were discussing plans to train non-Chiss students as well. The logistics for that were slowly being worked out due to the secrecy of the program.

Thus far, it had been a mutually beneficial arrangement for all of them - the Ascendancy, First Order, and Force users - and he didn't anticipate that the Tri-treaty would affect it meaningfully. 

Indeed, it was Rose's Five Year Plan that had the most significant impact. Hux had informed the Supreme Council of his intent to step away after five years, and fleet gossip had done the rest. 

He could still recall Peavey's dumbfounded reaction. "Term limits, Hux? What's next - elections?" 

He didn't think Rose could have foreseen the political implications of a simple concept like term limits when she proposed the idea, but he also knew better than to underestimate her. 

Or her subversive tendencies.

Regardless, the concept had sparked new ideas and attitudes about leadership and power, especially among the younger officers. He imagined the Order would evolve over the years as the older Imperial generation faded.

So long as it did not turn into the chaotic and corrupt Coalition. 

"Papa!"

Hux turned away from Solo and his child to greet his own. Gaia entered, followed closely by Millisecond, skipping over to him for a hug.

"Is my fish-y comin' today?" she looked up and asked.

In preparing Gaia for a baby sister, Hux and Rose had included the girl in many of their conversations. Hux had often shared information he had learned with his daughter as well – for example, he had mentioned one day that the baby was growing in saltwater, similar to the sea.

From that day on, Gaia had referred to her sister as a fish and would not be dissuaded. Hux wasn't certain whether the child was being clever or whether she truly believed her sister would be a fish.

"Your sister will likely come today, yes," he answered. "Are you excited, ta'ima?"

"Uh-huh. I need to catch some more worms." Hux had no idea how to respond to that and was grateful when Rey stepped forward with a laugh.

"C'mon, then, Gigi, Bo and I will help you go find some." As she spoke, she took her son from Solo's hold and headed out the other door. Hux couldn't stop himself from frowning at their careless hand off. Truly, that boy was tossed around like pta fruit. At least if they dropped Bo, they could always catch him with the Force, he thought in disapproval. 

"Only had to a couple times," Solo commented.

"Stop reading my thoughts," Hux demanded.

"Didn't have to – your disapproving frown said it all."

"Regardless, I need to check on Rose," Hux replied, heading once more for the door.

At the same time, Lieutenant Mitaka exited toward the kitchen where, judging by the smells, Peli was cooking. The two of them spent a great deal of time together working on recipes and meals. The quiet lieutenant was, in fact, very daring when it came to ingredients and spices and had been invaluable in the face of Rose's odd food cravings. 

"She's fine," Solo assured him, before adding, "I wanted to talk to you about something first."

"Can't it wait? I need to-"

"You need to give her some time on her own, Hux. You really don't want to know what she was thinking about doing to your…um…you know…when she walked out," Solo argued, gesturing vaguely at Hux's anatomy. "For your own safety, give her some time."

"I'll go check on her," Kaydel offered. "She can't blame me for her current condition. But, just in case, I'll pat her down for blades and shock prods. Don't worry," Rose's friend laughed as she passed through the door. 

"Fine. My office," Hux conceded, walking away.

Once there, he turned impatiently to Solo. "Well?"

Solo looked uncomfortable, hesitating, before finally answering. "Your leg."

"What about it?"

"I can heal it."

Of all the things that Solo could have said, this was the least expected. Hux looked at him incredulously. "You want to heal my leg?"

Solo responded with a shrug - an annoying habit of his - before clarifying, "at least help it. A lot depends on the extent and type of damage."

"I don't-" 

Solo cut off his instinctual refusal. "I know it limits what you can do with Rose and Gaia. And newborns are a lot of work."

Hux rolled his eyes at the man's authoritative tone. Really - he had been a father for one month. "I'm well aware."

"Then let me help you."

Hux regarded his former nemesis with skepticism. He and Solo weren't friends. They didn't even really like each other. But, like many people with shared experiences, even negative ones, they were connected. They had both walked right up to the precipice and were only saved from falling by a stubborn woman who loved them.

And both were well aware that neither of them deserved to be saved. Or loved.

"Why?" Hux asked.

"I owe you."

He knew that was as close to an apology as he would ever get from Solo. But, truthfully, Hux had never expected one nor offered one himself. 

"You think that healing my leg would balance the scales?" he asked, curious in spite of himself. 

"No," Solo countered. "Not after everything we've done."

"Then what's the point?"

"Seeing you in less pain will make Rose smile," Solo said with a sigh. "Isn't that reason enough?"

He paused, considering Solo's offer. Hux abhorred the idea of being beholden to the man. Or the Force. 

But he was right - it would make Rose happy. 

"Yes, it is," Hux agreed. 

"Besides, you're going to want every advantage you can get with this kid. Trust me."

Hux narrowed his eyes at the other man, trying to determine his meaning. After a moment, he decided Solo's penchant for drama was simply making itself known. Typical.

"Just don't touch me," he ordered. "And we need to discuss those two Resistance morons."

~~

Not long after, Hux found Rose outside, walking, pacing really, near the water. Connix was nearby but, upon seeing him approach, began walking back to the house. 

"How are you?" he asked Rose as he drew closer, scrutinizing her for signs of pain or distress.

"Better. You can come closer - I won't bite," she laughed. Seeing his wary expression,  she added, "this time."

His skepticism was justified, though. Rose had been somewhat volatile as her due date drew nearer and her discomfort increased.

And she had not been particularly receptive to any of the suggestions he had found in his readings and research. Except for the foot massages - she had welcomed those.

"Come, mhaira," he urged. "The medical staff should have everything ready by now."

She continued pacing, a determined look on her face. "Just one more minute. The sea calms me."

"That's because you're breathing in negative ions-"

"Shut up," Rose interrupted. "Don't ruin this for me with science. Let me enjoy these last precious moments of quiet." She continued walking for a few moments but suddenly stopped, turning to look at Hux curiously. 

"Where's your cane?"

He explained Solo's offer as well as his own acquiescence, and he wasn't sure which surprised Rose more.

"And it worked?"

He walked closer, showing her that his gait only had a barely perceptible limp now. When he reached her side, she turned, leaning back against him, gazing at the water. He reached around, placing his hands on her abdomen. He didn't feel the a'lora's kicks and movements as he usually did. It had been strange, at first, seeing and feeling his child's movements inside Rose. Particularly so when the a'lora had hiccups. 

His fascination with his wife's changing body and growing child was only eclipsed by his regret that he hadn't been there the first time. He promised himself, though, that he would never miss another moment with Rose or their children.

"The muscle and nerve damage was extensive and old," he explained. "He did what he could, and the pain and limp are significantly better. I just need to be careful about overexerting the leg."

"I'm proud of you," she praised. Hux would not have tolerated such a condescending remark from anyone but Rose. He welcomed it from her, though, particularly when she tilted her head back towards him and smiled. Just as Solo predicted. 

"Good boy," she teased.

Something in his gaze or embrace must have given him away.  "Ooh. I'll remember that," she teased before grimacing. "Oh."

Hux could feel her abdomen tighten just as Rose grabbed his arm and squeezed. He waited, counting, until she relaxed her grip and sighed.

"Come now," he insisted. "Let's get you comfortable."

This time, she didn't argue, and they made their way back to the house. They found Solo still there. Rose detached herself from Hux and walked up to the man and hugged him. Or tried to. Between their height differences and Rose's pregnancy, it was awkward. Hux, though, enjoyed the look of discomfort on Solo's face.

"Thank you, Ben," Rose told him.

Connix entered the room with a nod to Hux, letting him know that everything was ready. She also presented Rose with the package from Dameron and FN-2187. 

"This is for the baby, Rose."

"You didn't have to do that, Kay."

"It's from the moon jockey and his husband," Hux explained. "They found me at the Summit and asked me to give it to you."

With a bemused expression, Rose opened the gift. When she saw it, she smiled in delight and exclaimed, "Oh! A plush Fathier!"

Holding it up for the others to see, she asked, "did they say anything else?"

"They want to see you," Hux admitted. 

"Finn said that he and Poe are leaving the Coalition, Rose," her friend elaborated, much to Hux’s displeasure. "They're going to work on halting the slave trade in the Outer Rim."

"Really?" his wife asked, a smile of approval on her face similar to the one she had flashed at him outside. Though he knew it was irrational, he didn't want to share Rose's approbation with anyone else, especially the two morons. He glanced at Solo who was regarding him with a commiserating frown.

"Uh." Rose's grunt of pain pulled his attention back to her, and, again, she grasped his arm while he counted.

Just then, the doctor from the Dominion entered, announcing, "General, ma'am, we're ready."

"She's ready, too," Hux acknowledged once Rose relaxed. "Come, mhaira."

~~

"Beautiful," was all Hux could say, hours later, as Rose held their baby girl to her chest. 

"She is," Rose confirmed, running her fingertips through their daughter's fine hair. She had her mother's dark hair and her father's eyes - the opposite of Gaia.

"Her too."

He didn't know how a woman could go through that experience and still look as beautiful as Rose did. He was a General and, yet, he had never seen a soldier fight harder than she had. The medical staff were almost done cleaning up, but the room itself had resembled the carnage of a battlefield for a while. 

Hux was, quite simply, in awe of Rose's strength. 

"Do you want to hold her?" she asked.

Before he could answer, Gaia peered through the door as the staff were leaving. "Papa? Can I come in?"

"Come meet your sister, ta'ima," he responded, hoisting Gaia onto the bed next to him. 

"Say hello to your baby sister," Rose instructed. "This is Mer."

The young girl looked at her sister, wide eyed, before reaching out and touching Mer's tiny hand. She laughed in delight when the infant grasped her finger.

"Hi, little fish," she whispered before looking up at Rose. "She's so tiny."

"She'll grow," Rose assured her. "And she's not a fish, baby."

"Not on the outside, no." Hux and Rose shared a bemused glance at their eldest child's fanciful imagination, while Gaia continued stroking Mer's hand and speaking to her new sister.

"Don't worry about being small, little fish. I'll protec' you till you're bigger. I know you're smart already - you picked the best mami in the galaxy. She'll take care of us, and papa'll keep us safe. He likes cats. I love you."

The last statement was followed by a kiss on the infant's head.

"You're going to be the best big sister ever," Rose assured her daughter. 

"Better than Auntie PaePae?"

"I think so," Rose responded with a smile, just a hint of sadness in her eyes.

"Rosie?" 

Hux looked up to see Rose's friends at the door, wanting to see the baby and to check on Rose. As they murmured their compliments and congratulations, he slipped out to find Solo and Lieutenant Mitaka waiting to share a congratulatory drink.

~~

He couldn't help but reflect on how much his life had changed later that night as he made his way back to their room after putting Gaia to sleep. 

A wife, two daughters, and a whisper cub. A house full of friends. A future. All things that would have been unthinkable six years ago. Even a year ago, really.

He paused for a moment, waiting to hear his father's voice - calling him pathetic and worthless.

But he heard nothing. Not this time. 

He thought about that silence as he entered their room and saw Rose holding Mer to her shoulder, rubbing the infant's small back.

He stopped, giving himself a minute to take it all in. As much as he loved them all - Rose, Gaia, Mer - he was just as afraid of losing them. And like the love, the fear was constant. Rose had once told him that it was natural for parents to be afraid at times, but for Hux, it was all the time.

Some nights he still woke in a sweat, his heart racing, and full of anxiety. Unable to sleep again, he would walk or read.

Rose sometimes found him sitting on their daughter's bed near dawn, watching her. She rarely said anything - just took his hand and led him back to bed. She thought it was just parental concern, and he had no intention of correcting her.

It wasn't as if it was a new experience for Hux. He couldn't remember a time in his life when he wasn't afraid. Of his father. Of failure. Of losing control.

But that fear had been solely for himself. Then, he met Rose. Falling in love with her meant that he was no longer afraid for himself. His fear was for her.

He knew he loved her because of that fear.

Love and fear were so entangled in his feelings for Rose that they were impossible to separate. And, now, that included Gaia and Mer.

It was a special kind of hell. Not the fear itself, but the reason for it. Because Hux knew that he did not deserve this - the peace and happiness his family gave him. Not after the choices he had made for much of his life.

So a part of him continued to expect the universe to snatch it all away. To take his family away. 

And it would be his fault. 

But as illogical and overwhelming as the fear was, he accepted it. Consequences, he reminded himself. It was his punishment. 

An effective one, too. There was no better motivation for his reform than a desire to keep his family safe. Hux wouldn't dare tempt the universe to punish him further. If the Force was real, it was cunning - it gave an undeserving man happiness and then kept him in line through the fear of losing it.

But if that was the price to be with Rose and his children, then he would gladly pay it.

There was always a cost. A toll. A fare.

And look at what he gained, he thought, watching Rose and Mer. He would pay any price for this.

"She's asleep?" Rose asked, seeing him.

"Finally," he confirmed. "She insisted that we release the worms she caught earlier first."

"Did she really think Mer was going to eat worms?" Rose laughed. 

"I didn't ask." Sometimes, Hux knew, it was simply wiser to not know what the Tico females were thinking. He glanced at the newest one and asked, "she ate?"

"Finally, yeah. Gaia was a fast, no nonsense eater. This one acts like she has all the time in the world."

"Why would she be in a hurry to leave your arms, mhaira?"

"Maybe she wants to be in her papa's," Rose countered with a knowing look. "Do you want to hold her?"

Apparently, Rose had noticed his hesitation to do just that. He hadn't yet held his daughter. He was terrified to do so. "Rose…"

"She won't break, Armitage."

"It's not that," he countered. "She's innocent. Pure. I don't want to taint her."

"With what? Your love?"

With his past, he thought. His sins.

"I told you, Rose. I'm not a good man."

"I've never asked you to be one. But you're a better man than you believe," she argued. "And you are a wonderful father. Gaia and Mer are so lucky to have you as their papa."

"I love you," he said. Hux still didn't say it often - people who grew up in deserts often hoarded water - but he did say it. And it became easier each time. 

"Oh, I know. Now take your daughter." 

Knowing Rose would not allow him to put it off, he reached for Mer before stopping.  "Wait. I read that some species believe skin-on-skin contact promotes bonding." 

Rose rolled her eyes but waited as he removed his tunic and undershirt. "There."

He took Mer in his arms, awed by how small and light she was. And yet so perfect. He stood there, he and Mer appraising each other.

"Hello, a'lora. I'm your papa," he said, talking to her as he had in Rose's womb. "Your mami and I are so pleased that you're here. Look at you. You see everything, don't you? Do you see me?"

Hux had heard children described as having "old souls" before, though he had never really paid much attention. But he understood it now, he thought, as Mer regarded him with eyes that seemed far older than just a few hours. What did she see when she saw him?

"Your scars!" Rose's exclamation pulled his focus from his infant daughter, and he looked over to his wife for explanation. 

"Your scars are gone," she said, wonder in her voice.

Hux looked down, still cradling Mer, and saw that Rose was correct. The old scars that had littered his torso were no longer visible.

"Rey said that the same thing happened when she healed Ben," Rose explained before noticing his frown. "You're not happy?"

"I don't know," Hux admitted honestly. 

Frankly, he was overwhelmed. 

First, his leg healed. Now, his scars gone. Things that had been part of him for years. Decades. Just…gone. His father's voice…silent. Was the universe, the Force, telling him to let go of his past? His pain?

He recalled Rose once describing her burdens - how you didn't know how heavy they were until you set them down. But he knew how much his past weighed him down. He counted on it, in a way.

What would keep him from just floating away without those burdens, he strangely thought. What would be left of him without the pain? The bitterness? The resentment? He had always imagined that he would just disappear. That he was nothing without them.

Then, he looked at Rose. At Mer. His family.

They were his anchors. Not fear or guilt. Not the past. 

Them.

And so long as he had them, he wouldn't be empty. In fact, releasing the past simply meant that he would have more room for love.

Mer's eyes were watching him, as if the infant was waiting to see what he would choose. 

And, of course, he chose her. Them. His family. 

~~

"Shh. Shh," Rose soothed, waking Hux. He must have dozed off during the last feeding. Rose had been right, he thought wryly – nothing could truly prepare you for caring for a newborn. 

"Is something wrong?"

"She's just tired and needs sleep, but she wants to be held," Rose explained with a yawn.

"Let me have her," he insisted, feeling more confident and comfortable after his earlier revelations. "You're exhausted and need sleep, too."

"Are you sure? Peli can-"

"Mhaira."

"Thank you," she said as she handed him the baby and kissed his cheek. "I'll wake up and feed her again in a few hours."

Once Rose's breathing evened out, and Hux was convinced she was finally sleeping, he eased back, holding Mer on top of his chest, until he was lying down. The fussy baby calmed almost immediately. 

"Do you hear my heart?" he asked. "Most people don't believe I have one. I don't, really. Because it's yours. It belongs to you and your sister and your mami. It always has."

He continued talking quietly to Mer, slipping into Arkinasian. Whether it was his heartbeat or voice, she was asleep in minutes.

Hux was tired, too, but he didn't want to close his eyes. There were times he worried that when he opened them, he would be back in his cell in Sunspot - Rose, just a hallucination. But, like so many things, the more he fought sleep, the harder it became to resist. 

He must have drifted off again at some point, because he woke suddenly, his heart racing as it often did. For a moment, he resisted opening his eyes, afraid he would see the walls of his cell.

The fear that it was all a dream.

Remembering earlier, though, he took a breath and opened his eyes to see Rose, still sleeping next to him. He then looked down to find Mer drooling on his chest just like her mother.

He was home.

And, yes, it was definitely a dream.

Chapter Text

Three weeks before Gaia's abduction

She quietly approached her mother's room - drawn by a familiar voice and her mami's sounds of distress. She peeked through the open doorway to find her mami sitting on the bed, watching a holorecording from Rey.

"… and I miss you, my dear friend. And Gigi and Peli so much! This is going to be a short message - we are on the move right now so it might be a while before I can send another message. But Ben and I are good. Happy. Safe and together. I almost hate to tell you that because it breaks my heart that you and Hux didn't get this chance. But you are such a good friend and I know that you want me to be happy. I don't even know if I could have found Ben without your encouragement.

I actually had a vision of you a while back. You were standing on a cliff somewhere and looking out at the ocean. You were smiling at something below. I don't know what it means - there aren't any oceans on Tatooine, but I am going to take it as a good omen. Hux would want you and Gigi to be happy. 

Give her tons of smooches from me and tell Peli to behave herself for once. I love you, Rosie. Talk to you soon."

Gaia watched as her mother's smile slowly faded, and she wiped the tears from her cheeks. She called that her mami's sadhappy face. She had once asked her mother how she could be sad and happy at the same time, and she had said that it happens when you think about someone you loved and lost.

Gaia had nodded, though she hadn’t really understood. Lost? Like the time she couldn't find her blanket? 

If her papa was lost, why didn't they just go find him? Rey had found her Ben, though it was supposed to be a secret. Gaia was good at keeping secrets, and she had just learned another one. Her papa's name was Hux. It was a funny name. Mami wouldn't tell her his name, saying it was an important secret.

But Gaia wouldn't tell anyone. Not even Peli. 

She walked into mami's room, and her mother immediately turned the holoprojector off. She smiled brightly as Gaia climbed into her lap, hugging her close.

"Love you, mami."

"I love you too, baby," her mother replied with a gentle squeeze. 

Gaia wanted her mami to be happy, and she would be happy if her papa was here. 

Gaia just needed to find him.

~~

15 Years Later

Gaia needed to find her father. 

Luckily, she knew exactly where to look – papa had a preferred spot on Eiram. Though he said it was good for contemplation, Gaia knew he often retreated there when the house was too chaotic. Or when he was unhappy about something. 

She slowly made her way down the cliffside steps, savoring the view of the beach and ocean below. It would be a while before she would see it again.

Despite being born on a desert planet, Gaia had an affinity for water. Her mother claimed it was her Arkanisian side. Regardless, she would miss it. 

She saw her father where expected - on the shore watching the tide go out. He looked so much like he had on their first trip to Sposia when he told her how the ocean was created from the tears of the goddess of the sky. 

He still wore his black great coat minus the rank insignia. And he still dressed in black more often than not despite mami's attempts to add color to his wardrobe. As she drew closer, she could see the changes, though. His sweater was soft wool and his boots were worn and comfortable. No hard lines or crisp edges.

White had begun encroaching on his beard and hair to her mother's delight. She liked to say it made him look distinguished, which made her papa roll his eyes. She also liked to claim it was sexy. Gaia had no idea what her father's reaction was, however, since she and her siblings immediately vacated the room, hands over their ears, when their mother said things like that.

"Papa."

He turned at her voice, though she knew he had heard her approach. She stopped an arm's length away and looked up to his face. Though slightly taller than her mother, Gaia had remained petite, and her father still towered over her. She scrutinized his familiar face – the worry lines on his forehead and between his brows. The slight crow's feet. The lines around his mouth that he, and the rest of the galaxy, refused to acknowledge as laugh lines.

But Gaia knew better. Her papa liked to believe that he was proficient at hiding his emotions. To Gaia and her mother, though, his face was a map easily read. They knew when he was happy. Upset. Worried. And they both had a habit of reaching out and smoothing the lines away.

She wanted to do just that - to take her thumb and rub the worry from his brow, but she hesitated. Not yet.

The words needed to come first.

"I came to say goodbye."

"Indeed."

To most beings, her father's response would be viewed as terse. Unfeeling. But Gaia, like Rose, had learned long ago how to unpack his words to find all the care and concern - and worry - hidden within.

Despite taking after her father in numerous ways, when it came to emotional transparency, Gaia was still her mother's daughter. Everything she felt was always on display, it seemed. And it would be detrimental if she didn't learn to control it.

And soon.

For now, though, Gaia needed her father to see her feelings and to know that she was calm and confident with her decision. She wanted to leave with his blessing.

"I know you don't want me to go, papa, but I need to do this," Gaia argued as her papa continued to regard her, his face inscrutable. 

"No, you don't."

Most beings, upon hearing General Armitage Hux's emphatic tone, would concede the argument. She would not.

"Alright," she readily agreed. "I want to do this. Please understand."

"I don't. My efforts were meant to ensure that you - any of you - wouldn't have to do this."

His frustration was evident for anyone to hear. But Gaia wasn't anyone. Of all her siblings, she had always been closest to her papa. Their connection was unique. She didn't know if it was because she was the oldest or maybe the most like him in disposition. Mami said it was because of their history – they didn't take each other or their time together for granted.

So Gaia heard not just the frustration, but also the fear, behind his words. And the guilt. The fear of any father at a child's departure. The guilt of this father at his failure to deter his child from seemingly following in his footsteps.  

"Your efforts ensured that it was a choice," she reminded him. "For all of us. And this is what I choose. I want to earn my citizenship."

It was the truth, though not the complete truth. Citizenship was important to her.

The First Order, now simply called The Order, was still a martial society in many ways. Most nations needed to be highly militarized to thrive in the Chaos. Thus, her father and the Supreme Council had mandated that anyone who wanted Full Citizenship had to serve the Order for five years, at least two of those in the military.

Though not a requirement to live on Order planets and stations, Full Citizenship carried a number of enviable civic rights and benefits.

It was a surprisingly popular choice - for both those born into the Order and from Imperial descent as well as many individuals from the Outer Rim. Her father's efforts to shape the Order into a meritocracy had borne fruit. Many beings saw it as a nation where they could earn their place and advance in a way that they couldn't on Coalition and independent planets where connections and social class prevailed.

Former slaves, for example, emigrated to the Order in large numbers, deciding that the benefits of citizenship outweighed the risks of military service in the Chaos. To Poe's and Finn's frustration, she knew. Which, of course, only delighted her father more.

It pleased her mother that when the Coalition finally noticed it was losing beings to the Order, it began implementing some needed changes in the Outer Rim. Though still flawed, the Coalition had improved in many ways.

The Tri-treaty still held. Though the peace between the Order and the Coalition would always be a delicate one, it had lasted, thanks in large part to the Chiss. And the Ascendancy was rewarded for their efforts when both the Order and the Coalition came to their aid several years ago to fight off a massive invasion by the Grysk.

Gaia recalled that it had been a difficult time for her father. He had clearly been torn between his perceived duty to return and lead the Order and his need to stay with his family on Eiram. Ultimately, he and mami decided to take the family to Sposia where they worked with the UAG to study the unfamiliar weapons and technology of the Grysk Hegemony and to engineer effective defenses and countermeasures.

Their efforts were successful and the Grysk had been pushed back. They were still a threat, though, and skirmishes with them were common. Lately too, there were rumors that they had found new allies in the Chaos. 

Thus, the Order's fleet and military needed to stay at readiness. That meant it needed a constant influx of recruits, and Gaia had signed up for the full five years of military service, a requirement for anyone interested in a career as an officer.

"There is no need for you to be an Order citizen," her father countered. "Not on Eiram."

She knew it frustrated him – that he had worked so hard to make sure his children had a choice he never had. He had erred, though, in believing he knew what their choice would be. 

"I'm my father's daughter."

"I am aware of that," he replied, his tone a mix of pride and weary acceptance. 

It was true. They both preferred logic and strategy. When overwhelmed by the chaos of the family, they both fled for solitude - her father to the water's edge while Gaia roamed the woods with Milli. They liked discipline and order, and both had a strong sense of duty and a talent for leadership. 

She didn't think he had really been surprised by her decision. He just didn't like it.

"I was raised in the Order, and I want to do my duty to it. And as much as I love you and mami, I don't want to stay on Eiram forever. There's still so many places to explore, especially in the Chaos."

"It's not safe, ta'ima." His eyes pleaded with her to understand. 

"That's why I need to go. We can't let the extremists get any traction, especially now, when we should be focused on the Grysk and their allies. You're the one who taught me the importance of image and appearance. My service will send a strong message."

Gaia knew that the announcement that General Hux’s daughter had enlisted would send a clear message to the few, but vocal, Expansionist extremists that persisted. It would drive up recruitments among the youth and young adults in the population, too.

"The Hux name will only protect you so much," her father warned.

"Which is why I will be Ensign Tico. Anyway, you know mami's name carries more weight than yours."

While she meant it jokingly, it was also true. Her mother had been beloved throughout the Order by the time her papa had retired. In fact, Gaia and her siblings had always used 'Tico' as their surname. Her father was the only one who used 'Hux,' and he seemed quite content with that fact.

She believed that he didn't want his children to carry the burden of his name, and she understood. When Gaia had learned about her father's wartime actions, she refused to believe it at first. She simply couldn't reconcile that man with her beloved papa.

If Gaia was completely honest, though, it was part of her motivation for joining the Order. She would never say it out loud, but she felt an obligation to the galaxy - to make sure that the Order stayed on its present path. To ensure peace.

To make up for what her father and grandfather had done. To ensure it never happened again. As the oldest, it was her duty. Gaia never told her parents about the responsibility she felt, though she suspected they knew.

She supposed every child, at some point, is shaken by the realization that their parents are complicated, flawed beings like everyone else. That they can make mistakes. Or worse. It makes the galaxy feel more dangerous - and life more precarious - when you understand that. She didn't love her father any less – it just added new texture and complexity to her perception of him.

"I'll miss you, ta'ima," he finally said, his voice wistful. A rare emotion for her pragmatic father. Or her.

"I'll miss you too, papa." At that, she allowed herself to reach out and touch his face, rubbing her hand along his bearded cheek. Gaia recalled the first time she had done so - sitting on the bed and watching the man who was her papa sleep onboard the Archer . She had known that he was her father since the moment she heard him called 'Hux.'

It seemed he was remembering that moment as well judging by his almost-smile. He reached out, too, pulling her close. She rested her head on his shoulder and inhaled his scent - a mix of iron, sea, wool, and Tarine that would always remind her of home and safety.

"Have you said goodbye to your mother?" he inquired, pulling back slightly to glance up at the cliff. 

Gaia followed his gaze to see her mami standing at the top and looking down at them, their home in the background. It was too far away to see her face, but she knew that it would be her mother's 'sadhappy' expression. 

"Yes." They had both cried, and it was the closest Gaia had come to changing her mind. But her mother had encouraged her, understanding that Gaia needed to do this.

Mami waved before she disappeared - probably heading back toward the house - and Gaia and her father turned towards the ocean. They stood, shoulder-to-shoulder, and watched the horizon in companionable silence for several moments. Gaia noted one of Eiram's frequent storms in the distance, judging that it would arrive within the hour.

"I'm not sure how I will adjust to the quiet when you are gone."

"Brand and Aella are still here," Gaia wryly reminded him. "And knowing you and mami, I'll have a new sibling the next time I come home."

She already had three of them. Brand had been born almost a year after the family settled on Eiram. She and Mer had been thrilled to have a little brother. Brand had inherited their parents' engineering skills, though he preferred to be arms deep in an engine like mami. He was also fearless, constantly one step away from serious bodily injury. It had driven her parents mad until Peli had come up with the idea for pod racers as a way to channel his energy. 

Papa had rolled his eyes at the idea at first, but he was soon enthusiastically working with Brand on engine designs. When Brand was successful in some youth races, other racers, even professionals, began commissioning her father for designs. 

Thankfully, Aella was a calmer child. She preferred the outdoors and had a special affinity for animals. Aella had a way with them - even Milli followed her everywhere. They could typically be found in the woods near the house, though Milli never allowed the six-year-old to go far.

Her father said nothing to her sibling prediction, merely reminding her, "this will always be your home. You never need a reason or excuse. If you want to come home, come. We'll always be here for you."

She knew why her father said that. Why he needed to say it. Going home had not been an option for him or mami at her age. Nowhere and no one they could return to. Not really.

They stood quietly for another moment, watching the approaching storm, before Gaia finally said,  "I should go. Tem is waiting."

At that, papa's frown immediately returned. He did not like Temiri Blagg. Not anymore, at least.

Shortly after Poe and Finn had begun their anti-slavery efforts in the Outer Rim, they had run into Temiri. Quite literally. He had only been sixteen, recently escaped from slavery himself, when Poe found him trying to free slaves from a ship owned by the Guavian Death Gang. It took a broken nose and split lip before Poe was able to convince him that he, too, was there to rescue the slaves.

When Poe brought the young man back to Finn, Temiri recognized the Resistance soldier he had once helped on Canto Bight. Finn, in turn, sensed Temiri's Force sensitivity. When Rey and Ben began teaching non-Chiss Force users in the Chaos, Temiri started training with them.

The Hux-Tico's saw the young man often – mami had a soft spot for the boy who had kept her Resistance ring as a prized possession. Even her father expressed admiration for the lad that helped save mami on Canto Bight. Until recently, that is. 

After years of Force training, Tem began to devote more time to piloting the Millennium Falcon back and forth from the Outer Rim and Unknown Regions. He found beings who were Force sensitive and transported them to Ben's and Rey's academy if they were interested in being trained. Tem also continued to free slaves and provided passage to any former slaves who wished to join the Order.

Recently, he had begun making more frequent stopovers on Eiram - ostensibly, to see her mother. He typically stayed with Peli and Garrick, helping them with tasks and chores they were unable to complete themselves nowadays. Peli, in particular, always found projects that would keep Tem on the planet longer despite the fact that she knew Gaia's parents and siblings could and would assist her if asked.

Not a day passed without someone from her family visiting the older couple who lived closer to Barraza, the nearby port. Her father had bought the property for Peli when they moved to Eiram, claiming it was the only way to get the eccentric woman out of his house. Gaia knew it was out of gratitude, though, for the woman who had cared for her and her mother while papa was imprisoned. 

When Garrick retired, he moved in with Peli, though no one knew whether to label them a couple, friends, or roommates. Either way, she and her siblings viewed them like grandparents and were always welcome in their home.

Particularly Gaia.

And especially when Tem visited. 

Peli was not subtle.

Gaia admitted that Tem had grown into a handsome man - almost as tall as her father with gentle brown eyes that seemed too soft for a former slave. He had a certainty and sureness that reminded her of papa too, though his confidence was more subdued. Quieter. 

Gaia wasn't blind to the way he had begun looking at her. Nor unaffected. But she was her father's daughter, and that meant she had ambitions. Gaia believed she needed to focus on her career for the time being. 

She also knew she could never settle for anything less than the kind of love her parents shared. Perhaps that could be found with Tem. Perhaps not. 

But they would be spending a considerable amount of time together, alone, on the Falcon for the next few weeks as they traveled to the Unknown Regions. Who knows what might happen?

"I don't understand why you arranged to travel with him," papa argued, interrupting her thoughts. "You could have taken the Firefox."

"It's convenient," she countered. "He's headed back to the academy. I can spend some time with Mer before I join the fleet."

Her younger sister, Mer, was presently with Rey and Ben. When she turned twelve, she had begun spending half of the year at their academy and half at home. Gaia can still recall her father's dumbfounded expression when they realized Mer was Force sensitive. 

Papa immediately commed Ben and spent several minutes yelling at him before asking the man for a list of every available resource on younglings with Force abilities. Her father wasted no time in educating himself, and now, probably only Ben and Rey knew more about Force theory and science than he did.

Mer didn't carry a lightsaber like Tem or Bo and was uncomfortable with combat. Her strength was her empathy and ability to read other beings and situations. Ben had once said that Mer's abilities reminded him of his own mother's.

"I don't trust Blagg."

Gaia almost laughed as she reminded him, "you don't trust anyone."

"Regardless. He's too old for you."

At that, she did laugh. Temiri was eleven years older than Gaia - the same age difference between her father and mother. Instead of pointing that out, though, she reassured her father that she had inherited his drive and single-minded purpose. 

"Stop worrying. I'm only focused on my training and career at the moment. I won't allow anything to distract me. Or anyone."

Certainly not a handsome Force user. Definitely not.

"I'm proud of you, ta'ima," her father said, pulling her away, once again, from thoughts of Tem.

"I know."

"Remember to comm your mother every week, or she'll worry." 

Papa meant he would worry.

"If I forget, I'm sure Kay or Doph…General Mitaka, I mean, will hunt me down and make sure I do."

And she had no doubt that her father's former aide would be sending him regular updates on her training as well. Doph now served on the Supreme Council. As did Peera Masso. Their calm, moderate voices, along with Kaydel's diplomatic work with the Coalition, had done much to ensure that the peace was maintained. 

"Be safe, ta'ima. Come back to us."

"I will, papa," she assured him, holding out her hand, pinky finger extended. "I promise."

After he grasped her finger with his own, Gaia raised up and kissed his cheek. As tears threatened to spill, she turned and walked away. 

Towards the Falcon. Tem. The Unknown Regions. 

Her future.

~~

Rose watched as Hux approached the house about five steps ahead of the storm. Through the large transpirateel windows, she could see lightning flash against the darkening sky, but she wasn't worried. 

This storm was minor compared to the cyclones that periodically made landfall here. She could still remember the first one that hit - just a few months after they arrived on Eiram. Rose had never really experienced such a violent storm, but she had faith in safety and security improvements Hux had made to the house before they permanently moved in.

He still had enemies, after all.

She liked the storms. Watching from the warmth and safety of her home. It reminded her of Starlight. And traveling in hyperspace. Her world narrowed to the walls around her and the people within.

She set down the mug she had been sipping from when Hux walked into the great room.  She noticed that he was favoring his leg - probably due to the weather and the walking he had done - and resolved to massage it for him later. While he rarely needed a cane, the leg did still stiffen and ache when overexerted. 

"How are you?" she asked as he sat down with a sigh.

"She's gone."

"I know," she confirmed. "Hence, my question. How are you?"

Rose had her own mixed feelings about Gaia's departure. She would miss her desperately, but she knew her daughter had too much of her father and aunt in her to stay home forever. She had been reconciled to Gaia's leaving for a while. 

Hux, on the other hand, was having a difficult time accepting their daughter's decision. Rose understood - he loved all his children, giving them all his time and attention. He and Gaia could spend hours on puzzles and strategy games. For Mer, he had learned everything he could about the Force he once derided. When Rose asked, Hux said he didn't have to like it to learn about it. He and Brand worked together on engine specs and racing designs. And, recently, he had begun teaching Aella about ornithology – they would sit outside together, watching and classifying the birds.

But his relationship with his eldest child was special. Perhaps it was because he had come so close to losing her before he even met her. To not knowing her at all. Or because she was the one who taught him how to be a father. Probably all of that and more, Rose thought. 

"She didn't need to go," he responded, purposefully evading her question. 

"Yes, she did. You know it was the right decision for her. And for the Order," she added.

It was actually a precarious moment for the Order, Rose knew. There were no more officers left from the former Empire – they had all died or retired. The majority of senior officers were veterans of the First Order war, but the newer troopers and officers were born just before or after Exogol and had no real memories of it. They had no connection to the Empire or the New Republic. The struggles.

That, combined with the concern over the Grysk, meant that it would be easy for the Expansionist movement to take hold again in the Order.

Every generation had to choose its direction - towards war or peace. It was Gaia's generation's turn to make that decision. Rose could only hope that they would make better choices than the previous ones.

And if more pragmatists like Gaia emerged as leaders, she believed they would. 

"I shouldn't have let her go," he replied, watching the storm rage outside.

"You couldn't have stopped her," she countered. "Gaia's too much like you."

"That's what concerns me."

"You're afraid for her," she said, knowing there was little Rose could say to assuage that fear, though she would try.

"Yes."

"Why? You taught her hand-to-hand combat and strategy. She's as good a shot as you and a better pilot. Our daughter can take care of herself." Rose paused and quietly regarded her husband before asking, "what are you really afraid of?"

There had once been a time when Rose wouldn't have expected an honest answer. The man she first met would have scoffed at her question and refused to acknowledge any vulnerability. Even after they were together, Hux would choose his words carefully. Strategically. But they were far past that now, so she wasn't too surprised when he finally replied with the truth. 

"I'm afraid she'll do something she won't be able to forgive herself for."

There it was. His biggest fear - that Gaia had started down a path that would lead her to regrets and mistakes. Just as it had for her father. Rose recalled those difficult days after they told Gaia about Starkiller. She avoided her father for days as she processed the information. 

For his part, Hux had spent those days on the shore, staring at the ocean and preparing himself for his daughter's rejection. Rose had watched as Gaia finally made her way down to the beach and took her father's hand, and they both stood silently together and watched the horizon. 

"I don't think she will, but, if she does, we'll help her learn to live with it," she assured him, joining him on the couch. "And she has Doph and Kaydel as well as Peera and Lusica there to guide her. Rey and Ben are close by. Even Temiri."

Rose knew mention of Temiri would distract her husband, and his frown told her it had worked. 

"That boy should mind his own business."

"That young man is in love with her," she corrected. Before Hux could spew his opinion on that, Rose hastily added, "but don't worry. No one is planning a wedding just yet. Least of all Gaia."

Rose knew her daughter was not unaffected by Temiri, though she tried to hide it. She was certain, however, that Gaia had little interest in romantic entanglements at this point in her life. And Tem, who devoted his time to flying around the Outer Rim, freeing slaves and rescuing animals, who loved poetry and storytelling, may not be well matched to her driven and ambitious eldest child.

Then again, who could really predict such things? Certainly not Rose.

Hux pulled her from her musings with an unexpected question. "Do you ever regret not having a wedding?"

She regarded his curious expression with confusion. "We did, though."

"Not public. Not with your friends and family."

He was right. Everyone in the Order had always treated them as if they were married, so the rest of the galaxy assumed they were. Even family and friends had adopted that stance, though they had never witnessed a wedding or been informed of one by Rose and Hux.

No one knew that shortly after settling on Eiram, the couple had waded into the ocean together and performed a Salt Ceremony. It was an ancient bonding ritual from Arkanis that predated public weddings and ceremonies. 

It had just been the two of them in the moonlight – Hux holding a small container of water and Rose a handful of salt. They pledged themselves to each other in Old Arkinasian before Rose poured the salt into the water. Hux stirred it until the salt dissolved before spilling it into the ocean.

The act signified their commitment to each other and their bond - it could only be broken if the salt could be separated from the water.

A seemingly impossible task at one time.

Of course, Rose saw the irony of the ancient ceremony being performed on a planet known for its reliance on desalination. Especially since Rose spent a great deal of time working with the planetary government on designs to improve the efficiency of their desalination process. She used to tease Hux that she was engineering a way to leave him.

He hadn't thought it was funny.

"I didn't want anyone else there," she assured him. "It was perfect. Just you and me. Like always." 

She leaned over and kissed him softly - reassuring him that she had no regrets. After a moment, she pulled back slightly. She heard his whispered, " mhaira," before he pulled her onto his lap and continued the kiss.

And so it would always be with them - losing themselves in each other. Their children complained incessantly about it and grew even more annoyed when no one outside their circle would believe their descriptions of the couple's affection. 

General Hux? Kissing? No, not him!

Hux must have thought of the children as well. He stopped to ask, "where are they?" before moving his attention to her neck. 

She fought to concentrate as he licked and laved the sensitive skin near her collarbone. "Aella is spending the night with Peli and Garrick, and Brand's already in bed."

His "hmmm" was the only confirmation that Hux had heard her. Rose arched her neck, allowing him more access. She knew he was serious when he began murmuring Arkinasian against her skin between kisses. Rose knew the language well enough by now that she could recognize most of the words - "my love," "beautiful," "always."

Many of the same words that he had whispered to her that first time on Starlight. When she had no idea what they meant. No idea what they would come to mean.

She and Hux had visited Starlight just a couple months ago. The authorities on Eiram had determined that the derelict station's orbit had begun to degrade and that it needed to be destroyed before it could pose a threat to the planet. Hux had even advised them on the demolition procedures. 

Thus, he had taken Rose to the station for a final visit to reminisce. Among other things.

Eventually, Hux lifted his head and regarded her, a gleam in his eyes. "You know, before she left, Gaia mentioned the likelihood of another sibling in the near future. Perhaps she has the right idea."

Rose was caught slightly off guard at her husband's suggestion. For all his meticulousness, he and Rose had never planned their children. Somehow, it always just happened. 

Everyone else would roll their eyes at the couple's surprise each time. And they were always delighted. For a man who once thought he never wanted children, Hux adored their brood.

Rose's surprise surely showed when she asked, "are you trying to make your own platoon?"

"Certainly not," he countered, his tone smug. "A squad will suffice."

Rose didn't know whether his sudden interest was motivated by Gaia's departure, but it didn't matter. Not really. He loved them all - planned or not.

Instead of agreeing, though, Rose simply replied, "let me clean up, and I'll meet you upstairs."

"Why don't you check on Brand? I'll check on everything down here and be right up."

She agreed with a kiss and pushed herself up from his lap, noting that the storm outside was already weakening. As she headed towards the stairs, she saw Hux stand, also gauging the weather, and pick up her mug to take to the kitchen before checking the security and shields.

Minutes later, after she had checked on a sleeping Brand, she was slipping into bed when she heard her husband's surprised shout from downstairs. 

He rarely yelled, but she knew there was little cause for concern. 

"Rose!"

She smiled. He must have finally noticed the Tarine tea in her mug.