#moomoog017

Arian had seen a lot of death, clones being shot down, or sacrificing their own lifes for their general, or to make sure the mission would succeed. It was hard, it felt like every time she would befriend a clone, or even briefly get to know them, they would perish in the following battle.

When she met The Bad Batch it felt like her whole world had changed, her views shifted and she didn’t see loss nearly as much as she used to. After the war ended, she felt the massive shift in the universe and she felt depressed, she had been hunted by the clones she fought beside for years, and on top of that, the man she had grown so close to, Crosshair, had betrayed her and turned to the Empire.

Arian had gone through so much, but she felt as if she couldn't compare it to the clones she fought beside.

But her fight was over, especially after Tantiss, reuniting with crosshair, everything the others went through? and getting Omega back? peace was an option she could actually see in front of her.

A couple years on Pabu and she definitely softened up, though Arian did love her playful banter and Crosshair was happy to fuel that need for playful banter.

Though currently, Arian couldn’t fall asleep. It was midnight, or at least close to midnight, and no matter how much she tossed and turned she couldn't get comfortable enough to fall asleep. So she got up from her bed, pulling on a light shawl before she started making her way down to the beach area.

However when she arrived she sensed another presence down in the cave there, and she frowned, bracing herself for something unexpected. However when she entered the cave she noticed Crosshair sitting on the rocks, a few lanterns lit up in the cave which illuminated his back, however the moonlight in front of him made it look like he was glowing.

Arian smiled lightly, silently walking over to him, taking a seat beside him. “Hey sniper boy.” She greeted softly, admiring the way the moonlight reflected on the water and then reflected back into Crosshair's face.

He turned his head slightly, eyes glancing down to look at the woman, the corners of his lips tugging up into a smile. “Cant sleep?” Arian asked him, and in response he shook his head. “No i-” He cut himself off for a moment, glancing down at his mechanical hand. “I can't stop thinking about Tantiss.” he revealed, looking over at her again with a form of sadness in his eyes.

Arian frowned, scooting herself closer to him as she wrapped an arm around his shoulders, holding him for a brief moment until Crosshair pulled away. “I feel… useless now.” He sighed, looking away from Arian who frowned.

She shook her head, placing her hand on his shoulder. “Your not useless Crosshair. I’ve seen the way you help people here on Pabu… now you may be rough around the edges but I know how generous you are.” She spoke softly, catching his attention again.

“Really?” He asked, and Arian nodded, sliding her hand up to his cheek. He flinched back slightly, but when her hand was fully resting on his cheek he allowed himself to relax. “You need to start seeing yourself the way I do, Cross.” Arian whispered.

Crosshair leaned into her touch, looking at her with half lidded eyes as he inhaled through his nose, leaning further into her.

“And how do you see me?” He asked softly, seeing the smile grace Arians lips as she leaned in more, her minty breath fanning against his lips.

“I see a survivor. A man who protects those he loves.” She whispered, looking into his dark brown eyes. Crosshair couldn't help but smile, his mechanical and non-mechanical hand sliding up her sides before pulling her closer.

Crosshair bridged the gap between them, placing a soft delicate kiss against her lips, scared that if he moved any harder he might break her. But Arian was a big girl, and could take care of herself. So she deepened that kiss, nipping at his bottom lip which caused him to gasp.

The soft splashing of waves against rock was all that was heard in the background as the moonlight illuminated them both as they kissed under the mouth of the beach cave, he swallowed every sigh she let out, and she did the same.

Eventually they pulled back, and all that connected them both was a small string of saliva as Arian painted from the kiss, opening her eyes after a few moments, seeing Crosshair already looking at her.

“Your beautiful Crosshair, and so amazing.” Arian whispered, seeing his cheeks turn a bright pink as he looked away for a moment and smiled.

“And you Arian, are the light of my life.”

Stepping inside, the bustling noise of various guests laughing and conversing made your eyes widened. This was definitely out of your realm but you took a deep breath, the next thing that hit your senses was the strong smell of perfumes; some were fruity, some were earthy but they all smelled bad to you…Everyone else had stepped forward but you were left slightly further back. Hunter looked behind him and the look of empathy graced his tanned skin.

The two of you met eyes and a small smile pulled at the corner of his lips. “Hey, how are you feeling?” Your face became a mix of uncertainty and Hunter understood. He stepped back to you and gently put his calloused hand on your arm, “I get it; don’t hesitate to ask me if you wanna head outside for some fresh air alright?” His voice filled you with warmth and care, and you nodded. “Thank you Hunter,” he nodded back and released your arm, you then stepped forward with the man. He turned to you and Omega, “alright off you two go, I need to discuss business.”

You then looked down at Omega and she wiggled her eyebrows at you. “Don’t even,” you warned snickering. She laughed, “Let's find the hors d'oeuvres table.” She had a mischievous grin on her face as she took your hand, “you know me so well Omega.” You two hurried to the table covered in rich silk littered with various foods both sweet and salty.

Unsurprisingly Wrecker was already there, piling food into his mouth. Echo stood beside him with a disgusted face as he watched the horror in front of him. Omega chuckled and smelled the food, “oh this looks delicious!” You had also come up further inspecting the food. Wrecker then looked to you, “yeah it’s ok but Y/n could do so much better.” You smiled at the large man as he smirked at you. “Thanks Wrecker,” you spoke with sincerity. He responded, “no problem sweetheart.”

Your temperature rose hearing his words, in an attempt to hide your embarrassment you took a small hors d'oeuvre in your mouth. Echo and Omega were talking, Echo probably lecturing her on proper eating etiquette since she was still quite new to all of this.

Wrecker looked over to you once more, taking a few steps closer. “So which one’s your favorite?” You took a napkin dapping it onto your soft lips, “this one is super good.” Wrecker smiled slightly leaning against the wooden table. “Oh yeah?” He had a glimmer in his eye and you raised your eyebrows. Wrecker reached over taking the food you gestured to and brought it up to your mouth. “Open wide sweetheart,” he was now pretty close to you and you could feel him disturbing the fabric of your poofy dress.

Your eyes widened and you hesitantly leaned in closer to take the food gently from his rough but tender fingers. Closing your eyes momentarily as the hors d'oeuvre pressed against your tongue and the feeling of Wreckers fingers brushed the bottom of your lip almost sensually. As you chewed you turned your head embarrassed trying to enjoy the food but your ears became warm as Wrecker looked at you through half-lidded lashes. “Does that taste good sweetheart?” His words teasing you, as you swallowed you nodded slowly. “Yes Wrecker even better than the first time,” you attempted to tease back.

Wrecker still stood close to you and you had to move away before you started to fidget the fabric of your dress. In an awkward chuckle you brushed a piece of loose hair from your temple. “Good,” Wrecker said, pleased now, eating his own hors d'oeuvre. It looked like he was going to speak again but was interrupted by the sudden music that echoed throughout the hall. Omega and Echo were also curious as to where the noise came from and the piano began to play.

It was soft and calm as the keys were lightly pressed. Echo then got an idea, he walked up to you offering his hand to you. “Hey Omega let’s hit the floor!” Wrecker spoke offering his hand to Omega, she took it and off they went. Echo looked back to you, “and what do you say mesh’la?” Echo titled his head, hand still outstretched to you.

“Echo, I've never danced before…” You said rubbing your arm. He gently took your hand, “just follow my lead, you’ll be safe with me.” How could you resist Echo when he’d asked so nicely. “Fine…” With your consent, Echo ushered you to the dance floor and found a less crowded spot. He placed his scomp on your waist and took your hand in his. “Don't worry this is a slow dance,” his voice filled with care, making sure you were comfortable.

You nodded and put your hand on his shoulder. “We’ll take it slow,” the music began to pick up as it finished the overture. The violin and piano played beautifully and it calmed you, your shoulders and body began to relax as you looked into Echo’s delicately faded brown eyes. Your bodies were pressed tenderly together, the warm heat radiating off of Echo’s body. You began to fidget with the seam of his suit. In synchronicity to the music Echo led you with care as the two of you danced across the floor.

He was patient and calm as he held you lovingly. It was like you two were the only ones getting lost in the dance together so close to one another. You stumbled over his feet sometimes but he made sure you never fell. “You are good at this sarad,” Echo chuckled quietly, his grip on you grew ever so tighter. “I’ve almost fallen multiple times…” Slightly embarrassed you turned your head away from the pale man. He then removed his scomp from your waist bringing your chin back to face him. Your face a deep blush as you looked at him dreamily. “But I never let you fall did I?” His words were low and sweet. You shook your head stubbornly, “only because of you.”

Echo chuckled and he dipped you down slowly, looking at you his eyes were passionate, then he brought you back to his chest. “Oh hush,” he said as the music continued to play. The two of you danced until the music came to a rallentando. Your cheeks were flushed and Echo bowed; in return you curtsy. “You were beautiful,” the words came to Echo so naturally. You were in a state of calm but also panic as everyone began to crowd back to the floor. You excused yourself from Echo and he nodded, letting his hand linger on yours.

You looked for Hunter wanting to take him up on his offer as you grew more anxious. Making your way through the dense crowd you saw him sitting down with other military members. You hesitantly walked up to the table doing a curtsy to the others. You bent down to Hunter’s ear as you spoke. “Can we visit the gardens?” Your voice was slightly panicked and with a sense of urgency.

Hunter nodded and stood to his full height. “Excuse me gentleman,” his voice deep and commanding, he took your hand and led you outside. An immediate breath of fresh air filled your senses as you inhaled. Hunter released your hand, “apologizes.” You shook your head, “no, thank you for keeping your promise.” A playful scoff came from the long haired man, “I always keep my promises, especially when it comes to you.”

A small chuckle of gratitude left your lips, “thank you Hunter.” He looked at you with his loving hazelnut eyes. You two began to saunter through the small garden. It was turning night and crickets could be heard chirping. Hunter broke the silence, “you know balls aren't my favorite either.” Your eyes met his curiosity, “really? It seems they come naturally to you.” Hunter snickered, “I've been doing it for a long time, those guys wear me out.”

He sat down on a stone bench and you followed. “Is it because of your enhanced senses?” He nodded, “and they’re okay but not my favorite people.” Feeling a little closer and more confident you leaned in slightly, “and who are?” He leaned in a little as well, “my brothers, Omega, you…” You knew the brothers all saw you more than just a maid but it was still nice to hear. You only smiled and Hunter spoke once more, “feeling better?” You nodded. There were few people in the garden; the two of you were surrounded by flowers and herbs. Hunter shifted his weight down reaching for a flower.

“For you,” he held the flower out to you and you took it. “Thank you but don't tell the host,” you both chuckled. “Just don't tell them, here,” he held his hand out for the flower and you gave it back to him. He then tucked a strand of hair behind your ear as he placed the flower snug between your ear and your hair. “There,” content with himself. You could feel his hot breath almost against your neck when he placed the flower. “Looks good on you,” he smiled and you leaned away, afraid you might capture his lips. “Thank you,” you stuttered looking up at the sky.

Watching, people made their way from the garden and back inside. You both stood, “dinner perhaps?” You inquired. Hunter responded looking at the group migrating, “probably my dear.” Before you could react, Hunter had taken your hand and the two of you walked back inside. Hunter stopped you clearing his throat looking at the flower. Getting the message you took the flower from your hair and tucked it into your dress. Hunter released your hand as you two made it to the dining room. You then found a seat between Tech and Crosshair. Omega and Hunter sat beside each other and Wrecker and Echo sat beside those two.

Preparing yourself to eat you placed your napkin on your lap. Tech looked over to you, “glad you decided to sit with us.” He gestured to him and Crosshair. “Well of course,” you nodded your head grateful. Crosshair looked you up and down before remarking, “you have quite the manners little maiden.” Your head shot in his direction and he had a smirk on his face. “Come now Crosshair,” Tech responded for you as the food was brought in front of all of you. Laughter and conversation rang throughout the dinner table as all sorts of guests interacted with one another. “Tech, could you pass the salt-” Tech had already placed the salt in front of you, “certainly angel.” You and Crosshair looked in slight amusement at Tech’s attentiveness. “Thank you,” now having a grin on your face.

Crosshair was quietly eating his meal, seeming to enjoy it. Tech gave you anything you needed whether it was salt, pepper, another napkin, utensils, it didn’t matter because Tech was ready for anything you needed. You found it sweet how proper and kind he was. “Can I tell you about the new research book I’m writing?”

You perked up at Tech’s words and excitement ran through you. “Of course I do Tech,” turning your body slightly to face him, he continued. “Well after many observations of different inventions, I’ve come to a conclusion-” Tech went into complete detail about the book and you were fascinated. You were one of the few people who listened to him for hours asking questions and being intrigued. “So the device you’re working on? What stage is it in right now?”

His ears perked up and he pressed his glasses further up his nose. “Oh well you see, I’ve been drafting it on paper but I am certain I can move onto the actual construction,” he pointed his finger. He paused for a moment, “but I was thinking perhaps you could help me build it angel, no one is quite as willing as you are.” His words made you feel special and you replied, “I would love that Tech.” There was a glimmer of happiness within him, although he never really spoke his emotions; if you knew how to read him it was easy.

“Really?” He sounded shocked. “Really.” That same glimmer became even brighter as he excitedly took your hands. Luckily you weren’t holding a utensil. “Oh we could make so many things together and I could teach you so many things my angel.” Your heart nearly melted as you smiled sweetly at him. “I would love everything about that!”

You couldn’t help yourself become a little giddy as well. As he held your hands tenderly, he noticed removing his hands from yours. “Sorry, I got a little-” You shushed him quietly, “it’s okay I didn’t mind.” A deep flush of red crept up his cheeks and you chuckled softly. You finished eating and wiped your hands and face with the napkin in your lap.

Tech looked over to observe you, “may I?” You nodded a little hesitant but he held his napkin bringing it to the corners of your mouth. The feeling was nice and calm as he removed a spot you had missed, you uttered a small thank you and he nodded. Everyone else was pretty much done eating but then a large burly man sat down rather sloppily and next to Crosshair. All the guests looked over at the man with worry and slight disgust in their eyes. The Batch watched closely as the man practically threw the food on his plate. Wow the manners of this guy…

Everyone continued on now slightly a little more uncomfortable. But the Batch had their eyes locked to him like an eagle. Crosshair was clearly displeased, snarling at the sloppy man as he got food everywhere. We all watched Crosshair tense as the man spoke obnoxiously, “great party!” Crosshair attempted to ignore him until a firm grasp came unwelcomely to his shoulder. Uh oh…the Batch all thought. Even Omega held her breath momentarily.

“You’re drunk,” Crosshair spat at the man. He only laughed loudly, “no I’m having a great time!” Before Crosshair could respond he turned his head to you, voice loud. “Wow would you look at this pretty thing?!” You winced at his tone of voice, looking cautiously. Crosshair felt his patience thinning at every word. The drunk man looked around at the rest of the brothers smirking and met eyes with you. “Ha I see what’s happening now!” Crosshair's voice was low and warning, “watch it.”

The man ignored Crosshair, “what you all take turns with the little maiden?” Your eyes widened in horror as the brothers were about to speak but Crosshair’s tongue was quicker. “Don’t talk to her like that, you slob,” The man finally turned back, he was about as tall as Crosshair. “What did you just say to me?” Crosshair repeated the phrase but with a slight growl. The man stood now and Crosshair remained sitting unafraid. “I suggest you leave before I make you,” Crosshair scoffed. “I think it would be the other way around you slob.”

The rest of the brothers sent ‘don’t do it’ look at their brother but Crosshair didn’t care. The man tried to throw a punch at him but Crosshair stood, capturing his arm. “You’re weak too,” Crosshair snarled. All the other guests were silent as they watched the throwdown. Before things got bloody, the rest of the brothers held the man and Crosshair away from each other. “I’m good, get off of me,” he pushed Tech off of him as he stuck his hands in his pant pockets before walking away. The other man was fuming with rage as the others tried to calm him. You held up your dress as you hurried after Crosshair.

He stood in a more secluded room with lighting only coming from the moonlight through the large glass windows. You made your way into the room releasing your dress from your hands. Crosshair looked over to see your silhouette. “Hey you,” you said lightheartedly. Crosshair looked away with a toothpick in his mouth. You slowly approached him, your heels tapping softly on the wooden floor. You stood beside him, “thanks for that.”

His eyes finally met yours, his eyes softened seeing the moonlight caressing your soft features. Feeling his face flush he turned his face away, “yeah whatever.” You touched his arm, “I mean it.” He looked down at you, “only I get to call you little maiden.” He had the faintest smirk as he shifted his toothpick to the other side of his mouth.

You chuckled gingerly, “let’s keep it that way, huh?” Crosshair’s eyebrow cocked to you, “glad you agree doll.” His words always sent shivers up your spine but being alone in the moonlight with him stirred something within you. Finally Crosshair fully turned to you, he moved closer now enclosing you to the wall behind you. You gazed up to him, his expression was hard to read but his actions were impossible to misunderstand.

“You know as soon as that slob started talking about you…I almost lost myself, I wanted to do a lot more than grab his arm,” his eyes darkened but still held that softness he always had for you. “I know Crosshair,” hearing his name come from your soft lips encouraged him more. He moved a little closer now, his body on yours, his movement was delicate but his eyes were alluring. You couldn’t stop yourself, you raised a hand to his cheek. His stubble is rough against your hand. Crosshair slightly leaned into your touch as he closed his eyes momentarily. “There’s something about you my little maiden,” your stomach began to twist as his words tempted your ears.

You released your hand from Crosshair’s face and he removed himself from looming in front of you. There was a comfortable silence between the two of you. It calmed Crosshair knowing you were beside him and even thanked him for causing a little ruckus. It made him grin, you looked over noticing and the reflection of the moonlight on his angular face. “What are you grinning about?” He dipped his head to you still looking out to the moon. “You, little maiden.”

After the day had ended and the ball was over you lay in your bed thinking about all the brothers and how sweet they were. You couldn’t get them off your mind, you may be the maid and the military men but that only made you want them more…with sweet dreams you fell asleep with the fuzzy feeling of warmth in your chest. Wondering what the days beyond would bring.