//------------------------------//
// Chapter 57: The Knight, the Princess, and the Sunset 
// Story: Star Wars: The Great War 
// by ShootingStar25 
//------------------------------//

"As you can see, if we were to face an enemy on this terrain, I would go here...and you would go here," stated Luna as she was with her student and going over some strategy training.

"Hang on... If we're trying to repel the enemy, I should be positioned there, correct, Master?" said Storm as he viewed the holomap.

"Huh? I'm not sure that's the best idea. Take a closer look at this map," instructed the Jedi Master to her apprentice. "Can you see why I arranged it like I did?"

"Hmm," replied Storm as he was looking at it.

"The area I want you to guard requires the ability to adapt to an ever-changing situation. Who else could I trust with such a difficult task? You're my best bet for something like that." answered Luna as she placed her hands behind her back.

"I... see. Forgive me, Luna. I should've never questioned your ability." said Storm putting his head down.

"It's alright. I don't expect you to see every detail at first glance. I'm not my sister, after all." said Luna taking a personal jab at her own blood. "You are smart in your own way. You've proven it time and time again, which is why I look forward to the day you finally step up. Become the leader that I know you can be."

"Right... so long as I follow your teachings and your guidance," replied the Jedi Knight.

"Correct," smiled Luna.

The pair decided to call it as they began to head out of the room. They approached the door as it opened and there was Twilight. Both teens looked at each other as they stared. Luna placed her hand on Storm's shoulder and tightly grabbed it as if she was making sure to not let her student go toward the princess.

"Storm," smiled Twilight.

"Spar-- Twilight," said Storm as he didn't address his partner by the nickname he gave her.

Twilight was shocked to hear that from her partner. She was about to say something until Luna cleared her voice and got the girl to look at the Jedi Master to see her stern glare. The princess backed off as soon a shoulder was placed on her hand. Standing next to her was her master, Celestia made her presence known as she too had a stern look. The older sister glared at the student of her younger sibling as she too had a similar look as Luna. Then both sisters looked at one another. The tension between the Jedi Masters was on full display as they each put their students behind their backs as if protecting them like a mother keeping their child from danger.

"Tia."

"Lulu."

Both sisters glared at each other. The students had different expressions as Twilight looked on behind Celestia. The princess was looking at her partner who simply had his head turned as if he was trying to avoid looking at the girl lest he risks some kind of punishment. The Jedi princess had her hand out but quickly retracted it back.

"We were just leaving, sister. We're done for the day," said Luna looking up at her sister.

"Very well. Then it's our turn," said Celestia to her younger sister. 

Celestia then stepped to the side making sure to grab Twilight's arm. Luna then instructed Storm to follow her as the boy merely nodded. The pair was now leaving the room as they were passing the Jedi Master and her student. Twilight watched her partner's shadow pass her by as time was moving slowly. Like before, every time it happened, each footstep that the boy took meant something. The girl could hear them as if they were getting farther and farther away as if her partner was leaving her.

Twilight got out from Celestia's arm as she put her hand out. She managed to grab a hold of Storm's hand as it got the boy to stop, but he still looked forward.

"Storm?" said the princess as she intertwined their fingers when she held his hand.

The didn't say anything as he sighed and kept looking forward. Before Twilight could say anything, Celestia rushed over and yanked her student back making her release her hold on the boy. 

"Master?" said Twilight.

She looked up and saw the expression on Celestia's face. That alone, made the princess dare not speak against her teacher. With that, the princess put her head down. Storm heard Luna's call as he kept on walking and left through the door as the thud when it closed echoed.




Twilight was in her quarters as the girl had buried herself under a fort of pillows. A pillow fell as it revealed the Jedi having a sad expression on her face. Following what went down between Luna and Celestia, the girl couldn't focus on the studies that she had with Celestia. Everything that was said to the Jedi Knight by her master just went out one ear and out the other as her mind was distracted. It didn't take long as Celestia used her powers to sense Twilight's worries as the Jedi Master shook her head at her student. She simply stated that she needed to remember what the original goal of her partnership was with Storm and not risk anything with it. Safe to say, Celestia, dismissed Twilight to her room as the student had failed her teacher. Something she had never done before.

The princess sat up as the pillows covering her head fell off. The girl sighed as she looked at her nightstand. During the whole time, she was under her fort of pillows, Twilight's droid had scanned its creator as it inputted the info into its data banks. It calculated the results of the girl's feelings as it determined that it should power down and leave Twilight to herself. The girl looked at her stand as she saw the sapphire stone. She got up and grabbed it as the teen was looking at it.

For the princess, so many things were starting to pile up on her shoulders. The weight of the crown, her planet, her home, her people. Living up to the expectations that she had to fulfill. And being a Jedi. All of it, it was starting to take a heavy toll on her mental health. The girl was looking at the gem, hoping it could give her some answers. Just then, the transmitter on her desk went off. The girl answered it as the hologram who appeared shocked her.

"Dad?" said Twilight as suddenly it seemed more stuff was piling on the princess.

"Hello, Twilight."

"What... what are you doing?"

"Can I not talk with my daughter? Or do I have to make an appointment?" asked Night Light with a sly smile.

"No... it's just... heh, I'm glad you contacted me," said the girl as she grabbed her transmitter and sat down on her bed. She was glad to have someone to talk to, but soon realized that wasn't the case with her father.

"Good, because I have news for you. There is some royal business that's happening on Equis. And it requires you to be present."

"Oh," said Twilight as she put her head down.

"I've talked to your Master, and she has obeyed my request. You still have some time to get yourself ready for your trip. But I thought I'd let you know."

"Okay," said the princess to the King.

"And seeing as how generous I am, I'd thought I'd let you know. One of those events is the Grand Gala we have to hold. Where thousands of people from the nearby lands and all over Equis will be invited. Including, some nobles who could be potential suitors for you. You do remember your agreement, don't you? Or has he been influencing your mind?!!" said Night Light as that last statement he had a glare.

"No, he... hasn't," assured Twilight to her father.

"Good. It was nice to see you, Twily. Me and everyone else look forward to seeing you." said Night Light as the transmission ended.

"What is my life coming to? Why? Why did I have to have this much responsibility? Why was I chosen to be a Jedi? Why can't I have the answer to all of my problems?" asked Twilight as she stared upwards as if asking some being looking over the galaxy for some guidance.

While the princess was contemplating her life, her partner was tuning his mind and body. Storm was shown in one of the mediation rooms; he was doing a handstand with one hand as he had his eyes closed. Around him were objects that hovered in place as they were responding to his connection. 

"Focus, focus, focus," said Storm as the objects heard the boy's voice.

They now began to move as they circled the Jedi Knight.

"I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me. I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me."

The objects now began to spin faster and faster. Soon the ring surrounding the boy took on many shapes as they responded to the boy's voice. The more thoughts he focused on, the more the objects responded to the Jedi's connection with the Force. Storm was remembering everything Luna told him. Remembering his connection to the Force and how they were the same. Understanding the rule that he was a Peacekeeper and not a warrior. His training as a Padawan. The Code of Conduct. And the biggest, biggest, rule. Jedi don't form attachments.

"Jedi don't form attachments," spoke Storm.

His response made the objects spinning rapidly suddenly stop.

"Jedi don't form attachments, but they can show compassion," spoke Storm.

The objects heard that as soon as some of them fell. His hand started to suddenly get sweating as he could feel his strength suddenly going.

"Jedi... don't... form... attachments!" shouted Storm.

More objects fell as the Force was invading the boy's mind as he grunted. The pain he was experiencing from his connection was taking a toll on him. Inside, images of all that Storm had been to since forming his partnership with Twilight were shown. Their meeting, being hostile toward each other, them warming up to each other and willing to give this partnership a try. And it evolving as the more they spent with each other, the more their bond as partners and friends grew and blossomed.

"Jedi don't form attachments!!!" yelled out Storm as his eyes shot open.

He lost his balance as the objects hit the ground hard. The boy landed on his back hard as he lay there for a few moments feeling the cold, hard floor. He grunted as he felt his muscles ache. He was stuck staring at the ceiling when a shadow came over him. The Jedi Knight looked and saw that standing over him was the princess.

Twilight's instincts told her that the boy was pushing himself. That he was pushing his body and mind to the limits as it was painful. She made it to where he was and saw him hit the floor hard. Now, she stood over the body of her partner. The girl then kneeled as she was positioned at the boy's head.

"Twilight," spoke Storm looking up at the girl who was upside down for him.

"Call me, Sparky," stated Twilight.

"Twilight..."

"Call me, Sparky!!!" demanded the girl.

"Princess," sighed Storm.

Twilight put her hands on the ground next to Storm's head as she stared down into the boy's eyes. Brown met blue as the two teens looked into each other's souls through the windows of their bodies. The look on Twilight's face said it all as she so badly wanted to be called by the name the boy associated her with. And she wasn't going to go anywhere until he gave her what she wanted.

"Say it," stated Twilight.

"S-Sparky," spoke Storm.

"Thank you," smiled Twilight as she pulled her head back. She got up and dusted herself before extending a hand out. 

Storm grabbed Twilight's hand as he stood up. The Jedi Knights stood there in silence, not saying a word as they stared at one another. Both had different expressions on their faces, for Twilight had a look of wanting and concern as she clutched her left arm. For Storm, the boy had a straight face as he stared at the princess.

"So... I talked with my dad recently. And it turns out... I'm going to be going back home soon," said Twilight now turning to look at her partner.

"Why are you telling me this?" asked Storm softly.

"I... I don't know," said Twilight as her dad never said anything about her partner having to go with her.

The silence returned as both teens looked at one another. Soon a voice was heard. It was none other than Celestia as the Jedi Master was looking for her student. The princess wasn't thinking as she grabbed Storm and ran. The pair made it to a small room, Twilight quickly tossed her partner in and she soon followed. The door closed just as Celestia appeared. The princess told her partner to be silent as she peeked through the small blinds to see her master standing just outside the closet space. 

The girl was sweating as she was afraid of Celestia figuring out where they were. Storm also peaked through the blinds as he saw the Jedi Master. 

"Where is she?" stated Celestia with a stern tone. She then began to walk as the sounds of her footsteps faded down the hall.

"Okay, I think we're in the clear," said Twilight as she let go of the blinds.

"Are you in trouble, princess?" asked Storm as he was standing close to the girl as their faces were inches from each other.

"No. I just wanted to talk to you without Master Celestia knowing," said the girl looking at her partner as she was leaning against the door. "Plus, I wanted to talk to you about my dad calling me."

"All that I don't mind. But really, Sparky?"

"What?"

"This is a maintenance closet, Twilight. This is the most cliched hiding place you could've chosen," said Storm. "This is the stupidest hiding place."

"I'm sorry... I didn't take us to the Naboo of hiding places," said Twilight trying so hard not to form a smile while looking at her partner.

In a way, both being so close to each other in a tight spot made them smile and laugh at each other. The pair were now having some fun as they were acting their age while looking at one another. They soon looked once more as Twilight felt a bit weak in the knees as she was lucky to be leaning against the door. Seeing the boy's eyes once more, was like looking into the night sky and seeing it full of stars. Something that you couldn't just take your eyes off of. Storm soon made a cough sound as he gestured his head towards the handle.

"Oh, right," said Twilight as she began to fumble reaching for the handle due to how she was still staring at the boy's eyes. She managed to get it open, and she peaked her head out. "Coast is clear."

The two teens then got out as they made sure no one was around to see them both exit to avoid any funny ideas. With that, both smiled at each other as they went on their separate ways and they were having the biggest smile on their faces.




In the days to come, Twilight informed her partner of how she had to return to her planet to handle some royal business. Master Celestia was made aware and gave Twilight permission to allow Storm to accompany her as her bodyguard when she departed. However, that would have to wait. Right now, the pair were being tasked with a small operation. According to some spies, it was reported that some Separatist forces were spotted. The location was a planet named Glacialis. The planet was unhabituated as nothing lived there. The climate was that of a tundra which consisted of cold, harsh nights, but also had some warm greenery at certain parts of the year.

Regardless, the reports of Separatists occupying the planet were at best rumors. But the Jedi Council couldn't be too sure in case their enemy did use a secret planet to further their forces. Seeing as how it was no more than just a simple scouting mission, both Jedi Knights were given the assignment to check into these rumors and report back.

The teens were now in Twilight's room as she was talking with her droid.

"Sorry, T-S 01. But you're gonna have to stay here, till I get back," said the princess to her robot.

"Twilight, come back?" asked the droid.

"Yes, I will," smiled the girl as she turned off the robot and put it into sleep mode.

Once that was done, the pair got into Twilight's personal ship as they each had a backpack full of supplies. They got into the princess' fighter and took off. They left Coruscant's atmosphere as Storm inputted the coordinates. With that, the Jedi Knights jumped into hyperspace as they zoomed away.

The ride wasn't long as, during that time, Twilight was using the info given to her by Luna and Celestia with the computer logs implemented into the ship. The girl received holographic images of the planet but saw no signs of life or civilization. It was a deserted planet. Which got the princess to think, why would their enemies want to use a place that had almost little to no resources.

Their questions would soon be answered as they appeared out of hyperspace and saw the planet in front of them.

"Begin descent," said Storm as he inputted some buttons as the ship began to descend. 

The ship of the Jedi Knights headed towards the planet as it entered the atmosphere and flew among the clouds. They kept on flying as they got lower and were welcomed to a valley of mountains with snow tips at the top that glistened with snow and ice. The ship was flying through the valley as Twilight pinpointed a place for them to land at. 

The ship was docked as the Jedi Knights got out and scanned their surroundings. They saw the valley, but that was all. Eventually, the pair grabbed their backpacks as they were preparing to go exploring.

"Alright, where to, Sparky?" asked Storm.

"Let me think," said Twilight as she put her finger in her mouth and then stuck it out as a breeze blew against it. 

The princess then looked up at the sun as she had her fingers made square. She was calculating the time they had before nightfall would hit.

"Wind's blowing from the north. And based on the position of the sun, I'd say it's close to midday. So we need to start scouting before we make camp." said Twilight.

"Then let's move," stated Storm as he put on his backpack and offered Twilight hers.

The girl smiled as she began to follow the boy as they were walking along the mountain path as the sun above shined down on them.




The teens had been walking for a bit as they made it down the mountain pass to the valley below. They were now in a mini forest as the trees around them provided some lovely scenery. Twilight was at the river as she was refilling her canister with water; Storm was sitting on a nearby rock as he was scanning the area with a pair of binoculars.

"Nothing but green," mumbled the boy to himself as he looked through the binoculars.

Storm took off the device as he scanned the area with his own eyes. His face was as concentrated as it could be as he was looking for something. Soon a splash of water hit him in the face as it snapped him out of the trance. His face had drops of water falling as he saw Twilight standing in the shallow river giggling.

"Twilight?!!! Why would you do that?!!" shouted Storm.

"Thought the water would help to wash that serious look on your face," giggled the girl as she continued to splash some more water at her partner.

"Well, I can look however I want, Sparky!!" said Storm covering up against the water.

"Then try the wet look!" laughed the girl.

"It's not for me. Let's see how it looks on you, princess!" smiled Storm as he jumped into the river and began to splash some water at the girl. She looked away and smiled.

For the next few moments, the two teens were having fun and laughing as they continued their water fight. Eventually, both were using their Force powers as they continued to have fun with each other. Soon, it was time to get back to work as both Jedi Knights dried themselves off. They continued on their journey as they trekked through the forest to explore some more. They came to the tundra part of the valley as grass met snow. However, the weather wasn't cold as the sun was still up, but it would soon go down. 

While the Jedi were scouting, they were unaware that someone was also on the planet. The only thing that was shown was a strand of crimson hair. The sun soon reached its peak as it was going down as the weather was getting a bit chilly. The Jedi noticed this as they decided to make camp for the night. They were walking up to another mountain when they noticed the sudden change. The princess and Jedi Knight entered a cavern as it was larger than it looked.

"Nothing to do but wait till morning before we continue our exploration," said Storm as he had made a fire.

"On the bright side, we haven't seen anything that relates to our enemy," said Twilight as she approached her partner and gave him some water.

"Thanks, Sparky," said Storm as he grabbed the canister from the girl as their fingers grazed each other.

"No problem," said Twilight looking away as a small hint of red appeared on her cheeks. 

"Time is 2000," said Storm to himself as he looked to the cave's entrance and saw the night sky could be seen with the stars lighting up.

From afar, in the darkness, there was someone who was watching the two Jedi. Their eyes were shown as they closed and retreated into the darkness. For the rest of dinner, both teens ate their meal and talked with one another as they laughed and smiled while looking at each other. It soon came time to sleep as Storm offered to take the first watch. Twilight was concerned for her friend as the boy assured her that he would be fine.

"Don't stay up too late," said Twilight as she rolled out her sleeping mat and pulled out a blanket.

"I promise," said Storm as he saw his partner fall asleep. Truth be told, he smiled upon seeing the princess sleeping. "Sleep tight, Princess. I'll keep you safe."

The Jedi Knight then grabbed his weapon as he got up and walked to the cave's entrance. The boy then stepped out of the cave and disappeared into the darkness.




A few hours passed based on the moon's position. In the cave, Twilight was fast asleep. The girl tossed and turned as she was having some dreams. The darkness in the cave was shown as a pair of eyes could be seen. It saw the Jedi Knight lying on the ground as it began to make its way toward her. Each step it took, meant it was getting closer to its target. On the floor, Twilight was struggling with her dreams as she couldn't sense the danger that was upon her. The shadow appeared over her as a hand was shown. It reached for something and was about to attack the Jedi Knight.

"Get away from her!" shouted a voice.

The shadow turned and was flung away. Storm appeared as he had his hand out and used the Force to push the shadow off of Twilight. The shadowy figure managed to flip and successfully land on its feet. The sounds awoke the princess as she saw her partner kneeling next to her.

"Storm?"

"It's alright, Twilight," said the boy as he placed his hand on his partner's shoulder as she sat up. Once checking she was safe, he then stood up and looked at the shadow standing a few meters away.

The figure kept its eyes on the boy as he approached it. Not a word was said as the two sets of eyes gazed at each other. Twilight turned and saw the shadow that tried to attack her as she quickly got up. She stood behind Storm as they were staring at the figure. The silence was then broken as the hand from earlier was shown. It reached upward as soon the shadows disbursed. A cloak was revealed to be thrown on the ground, but that wasn't the important thing. What was, was the person who it was as the crimson hair from earlier was shown.

"Good to see you... Storm."

"Sunset."

True to the boy's statement. Standing a few meters from him and Twilight was none other than their arch enemy. Sunset had been sent to scout this planet by her superiors in hopes of seeing if it was of any use to them. Once she deduced that it was of no use, she was about to head back when she noticed Storm and Twilight flying overhead as the girl followed them to where they landed. Seeing how this would be her chance to get her revenge, she began to track the teens. Once night hit, it was a matter of patience. She thought that Storm was fully gone as she slowly used her Sith powers to use the shadows and darkness to conceal her presence.

She was about to reach for her lightsaber when she noticed Storm and was pushed off the princess but recovered. And so, it led to where they were now. The Sith girl confronting the Jedi Knights.

"It's been a while, Sunny," said Storm.

"Indeed. I mean, you never call, you never stopped to check how I was doing. I was beginning to think you found another girl to hang out with. Turns out, you did." smiled Sunset smugly as she stared at Twilight to which the princess had a scowl.

Storm looked at Twilight as the teens knew what to do. They each reached to their side and pulled out their lightsabers as the yellow and purple blades came on. Sunset smiled as she was hoping they would do that. The bacon-haired girl then reached to her side as she had her weapon in hand. However, instead of turning it on, she positioned it sideways. A moment later, her red saber come out of one end. Both Jedi Knights were expecting the Sith girl to have another blade shoot out from the other end.

"Nah," smiled Sunset as she messed with the pair before transitioning to her stance as she prepared to fight.

And so it was on.

Storm was the first to make a move as he and Sunset clashed blades. Twilight joined in as she was on Sunset's other side as she attacked. The battle was on as Sunset was in the middle between the Jedi Knights being able to quickly turn her body in between attacks from her foes as she held her ground. Safe to say, she was holding her own against the two even while being outnumbered. Twilight went for a high kick as Sunset ducked and blocked Storm's overhead attack to push him away and then cartwheeled away to get some more breathing room.

"Not bad," said Storm as he gave credit to Sunset for being able to stand her ground, despite being outnumbered.

"I appreciate you trying to flirt, boy toy. But is the princess willing to share you?" smirked Sunset as she continued to taunt her foes.

Twilight took offense to that as she flipped forward and began to engage with Sunset one on one. The girls were going at it as they held their blades in place. Sunset transitioned her blade in between hers as Twilight had to block and spin out of harm's way. The girl went for a roundhouse to which Sunset moved to the side and went for a lunge as the princess had to position her blade downwards to avoid getting stabbed. With that move, it allowed Sunset to deliver a knee strike to Twilight's face as the girl was thrown back. 

Storm caught the girl in his arms as he made sure she was okay. It was now his turn as he began to engage. He swung his blade as Sunset spun, followed by a standing backflip, and then tucked in to avoid the boy's combo. She then spun around with her blade as Storm blocked a side attack and then quickly moved his arm up to block a downward strike.

The girl took that moment to knee him in the midsection as he backed up and then blocked another strike as Sunset did another knee to his stomach. Sunset tossed her blade as Storm had to dodge roll when he got to a knee, Sunset went for a kick as he blocked it with his arms and grabbed her other foot. The Sith lord countered by getting the boy onto the floor into an armbar as she tried to pop his shoulder out of its socket, Storm countered by holding his fingers together. Twilight recovered and got behind Sunset to put the girl in a sleeper hold, Sunset was able to back them into the cave wall as Twilight let out a grunt.

The Sith girl did an arm drag as she got Twilight on the floor and prepared to stomp her head into the floor. Twilight rolled out of the way as Storm appeared and did a kick to Sunset's leg as she dropped to a knee. He went for a roundhouse as Sunset ducked her head and quickly went to sweep him as the boy did a backflip to avoid it. Upon landing, Sunset did a step-up knee as Storm was tossed to the floor. Sunset leaped on top of the boy as she pinned him down. 

Storm grunted as Sunset smiled while looking at her favorite plaything.

"It pains me to get rid of my favorite boy toy," snickered Sunset as she quickly turned on her blade and stabbed it downwards.

A purple blade came into view as it was inches above Storm's face as it blocked Sunset's lightsaber.

"Hands off of him!" shouted Twilight as she spun in place so that her feet hit Sunset in the head to make her stumble.

"Why? He's not yours, princess!" taunted Sunset as the two girls rushed forward.

They both leaped into the air as they were held in place. They landed thrusting out their hands as the Force responded to them. The power and momentum held them in place as around them small pieces of rocks shattered at first touch. Twilight took a stance as Sunset goateed her on. A quick sword exchange and Twilight forced Sunset back. Another exchange was commended, and as the Sith girl retreated it was the princess' turn to press forward.

"Celestia really stepped up her training protocol," spoke Sunset as she and Twilight were inches from each other.

"Keep my master's name out of your mouth!" shouted Twilight pushing the blade back.

"Why? It's not like you were her only student!" mocked Sunset with a sinister smile.

Breathing hard, Twilight jumped into the air and turned into a somersault over Sunset. She landed on the floor, slashing at Sunset. The Sith girl kicked the princess in the stomach, the air knocked out of her lungs. Sparks exploded with each contact the blade made, Twilight switching to defense with Sunset on the offense. A fierce battle between two warriors, a fight neither one aimed to lose. Everything to gain from this one confrontation, and everything to lose all at the same time.

Storm had recovered and saw the girls fighting a few meters away he turned on his blade and ran. Sunset and Twilight were continuing their fight. The whole time, all three of them got deeper into the cave. The girls were at it as Sunset went for an upward strike from down below. Twilight avoided it by leaning back to do a backward roll. Sunset went for a strike as Twilight blocked it and then began to guide the blades to the side as both held it in place. Sunset shoved her shoulder into Twilight to break the hold and went for a stab as the girl turned her blade upside to block it and spun as did Sunset at the same time, and both made contact when they came around.

Sunset then flicked their blades up as she stepped off the wall to do a kick that caught Twilight in the head as she tumbled to the floor. Sunset rushed as the princess put her hand out to Force push the Sith girl to the wall. The impact was heard as now the whole cave began to shake. Storm was just a few meters from reaching the girls when he stopped in his tracks. He saw some icicles hanging above Sunset as they came unhinged and were falling.

"Look out!" shouted the boy.

Sunset had a hand to her head and saw the sharp ice things coming at her when she looked up. The girl didn't have enough time to move as it seemed she was about to be met with an unfortunate fate. However, she was quickly moved out of the way as Storm tackled Sunset so that they got out at the last minute as the icicles embedded into the ground. The Jedi Knight was on top of the Sith girl as he stared down at her. Before either could say or do anything, the whole ceiling was now collapsing as Twilight was running to her partner. They put their hands out as everything moved in slow motion and soon everything went black.




A giant snowy wind blew out of the cave's entrance as the momentum gathered had pushed some of it out. However, that wasn't the only problem as the entire cave had been plugged up by the snow.

A groan was heard as a pair of eyes were shown in the dark. Soon a light came on in the color yellow.

"Twilight, Twilight," coughed Storm.

"Storm?!!" shouted the princess.

The boy got up from being buried as he followed the sound of the voice down a tunnel. He lost his footing as he was now sliding down into a hidden passage as he was heading deeper and deeper into the mountain. Soon the sliding came to a halt as he popped out of the hole and landed in a small area that had no way out as the walls sealed them in.

The Jedi Knight looked around and he soon saw a purple blade being lit in the dark as he made his way towards it.

"Sparky?!!!"

"Storm!"

Twilight shouted out as she turned off her blade and embraced the boy. Storm returned the gesture as he wrapped his free arm around her and held the princess closely. He pulled back to look at her.

"You alright?"

"Yeah, I'm fine."

"Good, where's Sunset?"

"Over there, but... we have a problem."




Sunset had her eyes closed as she was experiencing something.

"Ahh!" shouted the girl as she was on her hands and knees.

Sunset had her lightsaber out in front of her as she was breathing heavily. She looked up as the image of Celestia was shown as lightning flashed with the rain pouring down.

"Again! Try again!" shouted Celestia as she pointed her lightsaber at her student.

"Ahh!" shouted the girl as she grabbed her blade and rushed forward without thinking.

Celestia side-stepped as Sunset swung wildly and her anger was taking control. Celestia moved her head out of the way and struck Sunset hard in the gut as the girl coughed a bit. The Jedi Master then elbowed Sunset in the head and thrust her hand out using the Force to push her back. Sunset hit the ground hard as the Jedi Master managed to put the girl on the floor again in 20 seconds.

"Again!!!" yelled Celestia.

"AHHHHH!!!!" yelled Sunset as she got to her knees and lightning went off within seconds of each other as a dark aura surrounded her body.

The girl now had her eyes open as she sat up. The screaming and nightmare she was having affected her and she woke up with sweat coming down her face. Her hands were shaking as if she was experiencing a panic attack and they made the girl feel numb and weak. Sunset brought her hand to run it through her hair as her breathing was still heavy and she was trying to calm herself.

"Never again," spoke the girl.

"Look who finally woke up."

Sunset heard a voice as she turned her head. The voice came from Storm as the boy was sitting a few meters away as managed to make a fire to keep them warm.

"YOU!!!" growled Sunset.

The girl noticed her lightsaber next to her as she grabbed it. She quickly stood up and took a step only for her to faceplant into the ground. The grunting sounds could be heard as the Jedi Knight merely looked at the Sith Lord.

"What.... did... you do to me?!" demanded Sunset.

"Nothing... you're just exhausted. And a bit hurt," said Storm as Sunset felt some pain coming from her wrist. It was bruised as scratches and bumps were shown on it as merely looking at it made Sunset scream.

"What... happened?" asked the bacon-haired girl.

"Long story short. Our fighting trapped us. Now, we're stuck." said Storm as he got up and made his way to Sunset as he stood over her body.

"You touch me... and I'm going to kill you," threatened Sunset.

Storm didn't listen as he turned Sunset over to her back and began to drag her to the mat she was resting on. The girl raised her lightsaber so that she could turn it on to stab the boy who was kneeling next to her, but the pain from her wrist was too much as it fell. Storm simply reached over as he grabbed Sunset's hand and took her weapon to place it away from her.

"Don't worry, Twilight went to go fetch our backpacks. There should be a medkit in there for me to treat your wound," stated Storm.

"You... are going... to pay for this," said Sunset.

"Yeah, yeah, you're gonna kick my ass. We know how this goes," said Storm as he wasn't worried about the Sith girl making threats when he was more concerned for her health.

"I'm back," said Twilight as she was shown carrying her and Storm's backpacks.

"Right on time, Sparky. Sleeping beauty over here, finally woke up from her happily ever after dream," mocked Storm.

"I hate you," stated Sunset bluntly while looking at Storm.

"Feelings mutually," winked Storm at the girl as he reached into his backpack.

The boy pulled out a spray, some bandage, and an ointment. He then began to get to work on treating Sunset's wound. The boy sprayed the infected area to kill any bacteria and then applied the ointment to help soothe the girl's pain. Safe to say, Sunset could feel the difference as Storm was rubbing it into her wrist, she could feel his fingers digging into her orange, flawless skin as she looked at him. The final step involved the boy ripping a piece of the bandages with his mouth as he grabbed Sunset's hand in his and began to wrap her wrist around it. All the while, Sunset was looking at the boy who had a focused look as it made her smile in a way.

"There you go. That should do it," said Storm as he let go of Sunset's hand and put the medical supplies back in his bag.

"Thanks," said Sunset still with a bit of disdain in her voice while looking at her hand.

"So, what now?" asked Twilight as Storm made his way to the fire he created. "We're trapped under this many feet of snow, and we have no way to get out of this area. Not to mention, we got a Sith lord trapped with us."

"We'll figure something out, Sparky. Besides, it's not like she's gonna go anywhere."

"But what if she tries to kill us?" asked Twilight.

"She won't do it."

"How can you be sure?"

"Like I said, it's not like she's gonna go anywhere," replied Storm as he looked at Sunset who merely sat up on her mattress and avoided looking at her enemy. "Plus, she's kind of embarrassed that she's trapped here with us."

"I don't know. I just don't trust her to not stab us in the back," said the princess.

"Please, I could kick her ass with ease," stated Storm.

"I can hear you, you know!" stated Sunset as she took offense to Storm's comment.

"I thought you didn't want to talk to us," replied the boy.

"Shut up! I only care about getting out of here. So consider you and your partner lucky that I no longer want to kill you so much as I want to save my own skin." stated Sunset.

A while later, Twilight was trying to use her lightsaber to cut her way through the snow but soon found it to be futile as there was so much piled on it. Meanwhile, Storm was busy making them some food as Sunset just kept her distance from them. It was bad enough being trapped, but to be trapped with her sworn rivals, especially Celestia's student, was like a living hell.

"Anything?" asked the Jedi Knight to the princess.

"Nothing. And I can't find a weak spot in the walls either," sighed Twilight as she sat by the fire to look at her partner.

"Well, eat up. You're gonna need to save your strength if we're gonna get out of here," said Storm as he handed the princess her meal.

He then got up and walked toward Sunset as the girl was still sitting with her head turned. Sunset saw the shadow of the boy standing over her as he extended a meal to her.

"I'm not hungry," said the Sith girl as she wasn't going to accept help from her enemy.

"You need to eat, at least," stated Storm.

"I'm not hungry," growled the girl.

"Fine, I'll just leave it here," said Storm as he bent down to place the meal next to the girl.

With that, he made his way back to the fire. Sunset saw the Jedi Knight leaving as she then looked at the meal next to her. It didn't help that her stomach growled as she had been tracking her rivals all day and she was famished. She looked to see both Jedi Knights eating and speaking with one another as Twilight giggled at the boy making her laugh. Seeing they were distracted, the Sith lord quickly grabbed her meal and began to eat it in silence. Of course, it didn't go unnoticed as Storm saw Sunset enjoying her food.




"Still no signal," said Storm trying to get his communicator to work, but nothing. "How's our prisoner?"

"I ain't no prisoner!!!" shouted Sunset as she was ticked off by the boy even more.

"Yup, she's fine," smiled Storm smugly.

"What's stopping me from coming over there and choking you out?!!!" stated Sunset.

"Try it," taunted Storm.

"I hate you," mumbled Sunset as she saw the boy didn't buy her bluff.

"You're not the only one," stated Twilight as she heard Sunset's comment.

"What the hell, Sparky? You're supposed to be on my side. You're my partner." stated Storm.

"Yeah, but that doesn't mean you don't get on my nerves," replied the princess.

"Don't worry about that, Twilight. He's just got a natural talent for being an ass," added Sunset as she now smiled smugly.

"God damn it. Why I am suddenly being ganged up on? Of all the situations to be handed. I had to be stuck in a cave with no way out, stuck with an adorkable nerd and a redhead. God, why did the universe give me a bad hand?" said Storm as he was thinking outloud. He was unaware that his statement made both girls turn red a bit.

After a while, both Storm and Twilight were sitting across from each other. They were meditating to calm their mind and keep them distracted from their current situation. Sunset was still looking at them from a few meters away as she couldn't help but hear them.

"I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me," said Storm.

"I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me," said Twilight.

"I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me," repeated the boy.

"I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me," repeated the girl.

"There is no emotion," started Storm.

"There is peace," finished Twilight.

"There is no ignorance,"

"There is knowledge," said Sunset.

Both Jedi Knights opened their eyes when they heard that voice. They looked to see the Sith girl as she eyed them.

"There is knowledge," repeated Sunset as she knew the mantra that both Jedi Knights were saying.

Storm smiled as he continued the saying as both closed their eyes. Sunset sighed as she got up and sat next to the pair as she began to mediate with them.

"There is no passion," said Sunset.

"There is serenity," said Twilight.

"There is no chaos," said Storm.

"There is harmony," spoke Twilight.

"There is no death," responded Sunset.

"There is the Force," said all three teens in unison.

They all took a deep breath as they calmed their mind and opened their eyes. The three teens now looked at each other as they let the silence fill the air.

"You know the mantra?" asked Storm to Sunset.

"How can I not? It's the very first thing I was taught as a Padawan," said Sunset. "Especially, with who my master was."

"Who was..."

Storm put his hand up to stop Twilight from asking that question as he could tell that Sunset didn't want to answer that. The princess backed off as she allowed her partner to ask the questions.

"So, what was your level of training when you left the Jedi Order?" asked Storm.

"I was a senior Padawan. I was about to take my Jedi Trials to become a Jedi Knight. But as I told you, boy toy. I... had a falling out with my master. I left and turned my back on the Jedi." said Sunset.

"So, how did you become a Sith Lord?" asked Twilight.

"After leaving my master behind, I disappeared. I went off the radar as my ship crashed into an unknown planet. I was out of provisions and resources. It looked like I was about to die, until... I heard a voice. And that voice belonged to someone. They saw me as they extended a hand out. They told me that they could give me the power that I sought. The power that was to be mine to take my revenge. So, I reached for it." said the bacon-haired girl.

"Yet, you can't use Force Lightning," said Storm as that part stuck out when it came to fighting the girl.

"Believe it or not, we Sith also train just like you Jedi. And while we may not have ranks to differentiate our levels of experience, I can assure you that my training has me to match that of a Jedi Knight. So as it stands, I'm your equal to both of you. Just as you two are to me." stated Sunset.

"Rivals," said Twilight.

"Funny how fate has a hand in that, right?" smiled Sunset.

"Fate? Don't tell me you believe that kind of nonsense?" said Storm.

"Tell me, boy toy. Why was that you were chosen for the role you were given?" asked Sunset.

"What do you mean?"

"Why out of everyone in the entire galaxy, were you chosen to be the one? Why is that Twilight, Ms. Princess over here, why was she selected to be your partner? Why is it that I'm your rival? Ever think about it?" 

"Just a coincidence," answered Storm.

"Really? If you do something once, people call it an accident. Do something twice, they call it a coincidence. But a third time, well... I think you can see my point." smiled Sunset.

"So what?" stated Storm.

"The dark side of the Force is filled with knowledge that you can't have access to as a Jedi. Like there are incredible forces at play. Forces that you can't begin to comprehend." replied the Sith girl. Sunset then looked at Twilight who was listening to the conversation.

"And you, princess? Why out of everyone in your entire bloodline, were you the "special" one? Why is it that you were given Force-sensitive abilities? Why not your brothers, why only you. And after being part of a family with no connection to the Force? Why was it a little princess like you, suddenly given the burden?" asked Sunset to her other rival.

"I... I don't know why," said Twilight putting her head down.

"I rest my case, boy toy. There are incredible forces at play. Things we can't control. I can applaud you for being one to say their whole life is dictated by the choices they make. But what if you're playing into fate's hand? Who's to say the choice that you make isn't one that's already been set in stone?"

"Well, I still believe that I make my own choices. Maybe there is such a thing as fate. But it that's the case, then maybe you were destined to be trapped here with us. Maybe it's destined we're gonna be trapped here for the rest of our lives. Maybe... we're not gonna get out of here at all. But one thing is for sure, I'm gonna do what I believe is right." said Storm as he got up and went to the backpacks.

He remains so calm. Even after he hears that there are powers that we can't understand that play a role in our lives. Yet, he still believes that he can make his own path. Admirable and kind of cu...

"That's how Storm is," said Twilight as she could sense Sunset's thoughts. "He's the kind of person who no matter will always make sure that everyone else has a happy ending, even... if it means, he never gets one."

"He plays the role of the hero without him realizing it himself," said Sunset looking at the boy digging through the contents of his bag. "And you, Twilight. Having to become a ruler for your people."

"Yeah, it's not something I'm looking forward to. But it needs to be done. I have to prove to my parents that I have what it takes to lead my planet when I take over the throne. They'll look to be to me for guidance." said the princess.

"Must be nice to have everyone always looking to you for answers to their problems. Instead of waiting for you to cause a problem," spoke Sunset.

"Just because everyone expects something from you, doesn't mean it's guaranteed to happen," sighed Twilight as she pulled out her notebook and looked at it.

"Well, that doesn't stop them from expecting it," said the Sith girl.

"Which only makes things harder, because the last thing you want to do is--"

"Let everybody down," they both said in unison. Hearing this made both smile at each other. Seems they were more alike than they thought, without knowing who their master was.

"Where the hell is it?!!!" shouted Storm as the boy couldn't seem to find what he was looking for.

The girls heard that as they looked in the direction of the teen and couldn't help but giggle. Sunset then raised a cocky eyebrow.

"So... speaking of you being a princess? Found anybody you like?"

SNAP!

Sunset looked down, now seeing that Twilight had pressed down too hard on the book, snapping her pencil. Her eyes drifted back up to see Twilight with wide eyes.

"What?! No!"

"You sure?" asked Sunset.

"Positive! I've just been so busy fighting you and your allies, that I... haven't found someone of interest."

"I see. Though, being around Storm must be a hassle at times. I can't imagine how much he gets on your nerves. You know... he's kinda cute, don't you think?" She looked back and saw Twilight was slightly blushing.

"You can't say stuff like that!" exclaimed the princess.

"I don't give a shit," answered Sunset. "So..."

"I... I guess. If you like that... unassuming... heroic... knightly type,"

"Which I'm betting you do," Sunset teased as Twilight just stared at the notebook, a small red tint still on her face. "I mean, come on. Knight protecting a princess, we're seen this cliché before Twilight. It's a tale as old as time."

"It's not like that!" shouted the princess.

"Fine, I'll drop it," smiled Sunset smugly as she was making Twilight confused. The girl then thought back to a lesson that Celestia taught her when she was training under her.

Remember this lesson, Sunset. Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart.




It was later as the three decided to get some shut-eye. Everyone was fast asleep as the fire had long been put out with no oxygen to consume. Twilight was snuggly with the blanket over her to keep her warm. A sound was heard as the girl opened her eyes slightly. She saw Sunset sleeping peacefully as her back was turned to her, the girl then heard the sound again as she followed it and saw it came from her partner. Storm was up against the ice wall as his teeth were clattering.

The boy was going over their supplies and realized they didn't have enough for everyone. With only two blankets and the cold air starting to form, the boy made the exception that he would allow the girls to have them for the night. He told them he would be fine as the fire would keep him warm. However, some snow fell on the fire as it put it out. With nothing to keep him warm, he was now rubbing his arms as he tried his best to keep his body temperature from dropping.

"So.... c-c-cold," said the boy.

"Storm?"

"Sparky?" said the boy as he saw the girl sitting up. 

"Are you okay?"

"Y-yeah, just... a bit cold is all... sorry to wake you up... go back to sleep," said the Jedi Knight. "I'll still... be here... when you wake up... just... maybe... not like this."

Storm then transitioned to blowing on his hands as he tried his best to warm them up from the numbness. He kept on blowing as the freezing temperature made his breath show. The boy was so distracted with keeping warm that he was unaware of Twilight getting up and sitting next to him. He only realized it when the princess put some of the blanket over him as well as she was shoulder to shoulder.

"Sparky, what are you..."

"Keeping you warm," said Twilight as she wrapped the blanket around her and leaned into the boy's side.

"No, I can't. You..."

Twilight silenced her partner by putting a finger to his lips as the boy blinked and looked at the girl.

"It's alright. There's plenty of room for the two of us. I don't mind sharing." smiled Twilight. The smile from the princess was filled with warmth and happiness that it began to warm up the boy's body as he was no longer cold.

With a nod, the girl removed her finger as she snuggled into her partner's side. Not a few seconds later did, Twilight rest her head against Storm's shoulder as she had a smile on her face. Storm saw his partner sleeping as he was still unsure about this. He then felt something on his left side as it was Sunset who had gotten up and was sitting next to him with her blanket which she also put over the Jedi Knight.

"What the?" was all the boy said.

"I'm not gonna get any sleep with you making noises. Plus, as much as I hate you. I hate even more that I owe you. So consider me keeping you warm even." said the girl as she now turned so that her back was touching Storm's left arm. "Just know if you snore, I'm punching you in your sleep."

Not a few moments later did the Sith girl knock out.

"Good night, Sunny," smiled Storm looking at his rival. He then turned back to look at Twilight who still had her head resting on him. "Sleep tight, Princess."

Soon the boy too started to feel drowsy. One by one, his eyes closed as soon, nothing but darkness took over.

Storm grunted as he opened his eyes. He blinked a few times as he saw himself and was relieved that he wasn't frozen to death. The boy then looked to his side as he saw both Twilight and Sunset were now grabbing each of his arms and snuggling into them. The Jedi Knight was now remembering the events of late last night as it was the girls that kept him from turning into a human popsicle. The boy tried to get up, but couldn't move as the girls kept their grip on him.

"Why was I dealt a bad hand?" said the boy given his current position of having two girls restraining him from moving.

He sighed and put his head back. 

"Great... I got two girls on me and I... wait..." 

The boy's hearing went off as he heard something. He closed his eyes to concentrate as the sound echoed. It got louder and louder as the Jedi Knight was able to pinpoint what it was.

"Water!" shouted Storm as he tossed his arms out.

That gave him enough strength to fling the girls from holding onto his arms as they woke up and landed facefirst into the snow.

"Storm?!!" shouted Twilight as she was annoyed.

"That's it!!" shouted Sunset as she pulled out her lightsaber and was rushing toward the boy.

"Hold on!" said Storm putting his hand up as Sunset stood over him, ready to bring her blade down on her foe.

"You got five seconds before I chop your head off!" stated Sunset with an angry look at the boy for waking her up.

"Listen," stated the Jedi Knight.

The girls now did what was told by the boy as the same sound that he heard, they picked up. It was the sound of a ripple hitting a body of water. They both looked to where Storm was as he placed his ear to the wall and tried to find the source.

"It's here," said Storm as he pointed to where he heard it.

He then pulled out his lightsaber and began to pierce it through the wall in an attempt to cut them an opening.

"Need some help," stated the boy as the wall was pretty thick for one lightsaber to cut through.

"Let me," said Twilight as she turned on her blade and struck the wall.

Both Jedi Knights now had their lightsabers trying to cut an opening as it worked, but it still was tough.

"Sunset, can you give us a hand?" asked Twilight as she sweated.

The Sith girl sighed as she approached where they were standing. She too turned on her blade and began to trace the outline they made as she followed it and caught up with the other blades.

"All together!" instructed Storm as the girls nodded.

All three plasma swords now began to make one giant perfect square as their training courses in making shapes was coming in handy. Eventually, they cut through as Storm used the Force to pull the shape out and onto the floor. All three teens peeked their heads in as they saw what was on the other side. Down below was a small river that had icicles above it slowly melting as drops of it hit the surface. They all soon jumped down as they were welcomed to a much larger room than the one they were just trapped in. 

It didn't take long as the trio was following the river as they hoped that it would lead to an exit. Sure enough, after walking a bit, they saw some daylight as the sun was starting to rise and bring the morning dawn rays. 

"Well, we made it," said Twilight as they looked over the valley below them as the water was falling over the edge.

"Yeah, but we couldn't have done it without each other. Even you, Sunny," winked Storm as the girl couldn't help but turn a bit red at the boy.

"Well, glad to know you see my talents," said Sunset doing a hair flip.

The Sith girl then grabbed Twilight as she kneed her in the stomach before putting her in a sleeper hold as Storm drew his blade. Sunset now dragged Twilight to the edge of the cliff as she was preparing to throw the princess off. Her lightsaber was turned on and pressed close to Twilight's face as the princess struggled to break free.

"Let her go!" demanded Storm.

"Alright then," smiled Sunset.

She then did let go of Twilight, but moreso pushed the princess off the cliff as it happened in slow motion. Storm wasted no time in running as he jumped off the cliff and went after his partner. Sunset watched her rivals fall as she smiled and turned to go back to where her shuttle was.

"It was nice to see you again, Storm. And Twilight, you need to learn to share him. Cause I'm not through with my boy toy." snickered the girl as an evil smile appeared as she disappeared.




"Storm!!!" called out Twilight as she was falling and approaching her death. 

The boy was free-falling as he extended his hand out. He was trying to grab Twilight's hand. Every second they were getting closer to hitting the ground as the Jedi Knight was doing his best to save the princess. Soon he reached out as he grabbed Twilight's hand and then grabbed onto the vine that was along the cliff as they suddenly came to a stop. Now the pair was dangling above their deaths as they were still high up. Twilight looked down as her fears were starting to take over as she looked up. 

"Thank you, Storm."

"Don't thank me yet," grunted the boy as he was trying to lift them as the vine was starting to snap.

He managed to get a few meters up when the vine broke some strands off and jerked them. The vine was getting ready to snap as both teens were hanging.

"This isn't good," said Storm looking up at the vine.

"Storm, it won't hold us both."

"Don't say that, Sparky. Now just hold on, I'll get us out of here!"

"Storm... just let me...

"NO!" shouted Storm as his voice echoed around the valley.

"Storm."

"I made a promise... Princess. To your family... to Celestia... and to me..." grunted the boy as he pulled up. "And you know me... I never make a promise I can't keep."

"Storm?" said the girl looking at her partner in the eyes.

"The only real mistake you can make is giving up."

The Jedi Knight said that as the princess let that resonate with her.

"If you fall, then so will I. Now, hold on!" said the boy.

He then pushed off the cliff with his feet as the vine swung back. It was now coming forth as the Jedi Knight used the momentum to fling Twilight up to the ledge as the vine broke. Twilight landed and quickly looked to the edge as the vine snapped. Storm managed to grab onto the ledge as he managed to get a hold just as the vine broke. But he was all out of strength as his fingers were slipping. Just when the rock broke, a hand appeared and grabbed the boy's as it was none other than Twilight. 

The princess quickly reacted and now it was her turn to pull her partner to safety. Storm was pulled up to the ledge as both teens were on their knees panting heavily. Their hearts were racing as sweat flowed down their face.

"Thanks... Spar--"

Storm was quickly embraced by Twilight. The princess was in his arms as she wrapped hers around his neck. The girl buried her head as tears could be heard. The boy felt his partner's worries as he wrapped his arms around her and held the girl.

"Why? Why did you risk your life like that to save me?" asked Twilight.

"I can't just sit back and watch someone die. I'd rather die alongside them than do nothing. Especially if that someone is a girl like you, Sparky." said Storm.

"Wow... you really are an idiot. You're the only person who'd think like that," said Twilight with a smile on her face.

The pair just sat there as they closed their eyes. They were taking a moment as they held the other in their arms. Storm couldn't help but pick up Twilight's scent from her hair as the familiar lavender and lilac filled his senses. After a while, the teens pulled apart as they managed to calm their stress. They stared into each other eyes as they were grateful to have the other by their side.

"Let's go home," stated Storm as he got up and began to walk.

"Right," smiled Twilight.

She got up and followed her partner as the pair were making their way to where their ship was. Along the way, the princess was smiling while looking at her partner with her hands behind her back.

I'm the Princess, and he's the Knight.

It didn't take long as both arrived at their ship and got in. With Sunset being long gone, the Jedi Knights took off and left the planet as they entered hyperspace and zoomed away.