Unwritten Path [PAUSED]

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑻𝒘𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒚-𝑺𝒊𝒙

22 BBY, Month 9 [Past]

Walking the halls of the Venator, Lexi scanned the area for any signs of something to do. She spent a few more hours with Plo Koon, his teaching her some ways to calm her mind. She found it difficult since she always preferred the fast method. I think I know why I wasn't appointed Jedi knight now.

"Commander," a voice called, breaking Lexi from her thoughts. She turned her head to see a clone trooper walking toward her. His helmet was tucked under his arm, and his eyes glinted slightly in the dim light of the hallway.

Lexi stood tall, her hands behind her back in a calm manner. She was curious about what he wanted since the incident with Malevolence. She hasn't seen him since the last month due to their busy schedules. When he was within a few paces, he came to a stop, his expression one of curiosity but also respect.

"I heard you gave a new color scheme... for our fallen brothers," the trooper said, his voice steady but tinged with reverence. Lexi paused for a moment, considering her words carefully. She could feel the weight of his question, maybe one of curiosity and also expectation.

Her gaze softened, but she maintained her commanding presence. "Yes, the grey was my choice. A color that symbolizes the ashes of what we've lost and the future to come," She paused, the weight of her words hanging in the air before continuing, "But I heard Commander Wolffe designed the patterns. I have not seen it but am curious like you."

Comet, who had been standing just off to the side, nodded in agreement as well. "Wolffe's designs tie it all together. It's more than just a look. It can be a symbol for our division and more."

Lexi gave a gentle nod, her expression calm and peaceful. She took a deep breath before moving forward. "It's not just for the fallen," she added quietly, though it was meant for herself more than anyone else. "It's for us. All of us."

The trooper stepped back to let Lexi pass, and Comet fell into step beside her. Comet matched Lexi's pace as they moved, their boots echoing in unison. "You know, Lexi, I think you've done something important here."

Lexi glanced at him, offering a small but knowing smile. "I hope it does. But we still have a long way to go."  Comet gave a light chuckle, his voice low and assured. "We've got this, Commander. Together, we always do."

Lexi's comm beeped suddenly, its shrill sound cutting echoing through the halls. Her gloved fingers pressed the red button on her wrist to answer. "Commander, can you come to the hangar."

Her gaze flicked briefly to Comet, the clone trooper who had been walking by her side, his helmet tucked under his arm. He shrugged, his posture relaxed and but stoic.  Lexi's high ponytail swayed with the movement as she straightened her back, her boots clicking firmly against the cold, polished floor. She fell into step with him, their strides long and synchronized as they continued toward the hangar. The air was filled with the usual sounds of the bustling base: the whirr of droids, the clatter of equipment being moved, and the occasional shout of troopers coordinating around them. However, she noticed the numbers seemed fewer than normal.