Convergence (Star Wars: The High Republic)

by Zoraida Córdova

“If we don’t live through this…” he began. “We will live through this,” she corrected but trailed off. There could be no after for them. When they lived through this, he would be in prison and she would face the Jedi Council. “If we don’t live through this,” Axel said, “I hope my ghost haunts yours for eternity.” “We don’t believe in ghosts.” “Leave it to me,” he said, “to fall for a humorless Jedi.” She didn’t want to hear those words. Not from him. As Axel slumped to the floor, unconscious, Gella shut her eyes and did her best to clear her mind, to find the strength through the Force. I have every bit of faith in you, he’d said to her before he shoved her into that pit. Gella Nattai trusted in the Force, in herself. She always landed on solid ground, and this time could be no different. Slowly, it worked. The weight loosened with every piece being moved through the Force. “The Force is with me,” she whispered, imagining every piece of wreckage that was trying to bury them alive. “And I am one with the Force.” She spoke the words, again and again until she and Axel lay atop a heap of rubble. The waves were so high, she could feel the spray of surf. The Paxion was gone, but a cluster of Eirami starfighters returned to the city, circling overhead. She was certain Xiri was leading the charge. Pushing herself, Gella sat up. “Don’t go. Stay,” Axel said, blinking awake. He rubbed at the scar over his heart. “I can’t,” she said, and yet she lingered. Gella brushed his hair back....