LOVE These Two!

Heartbreaking

Loved this idea and story...wish there was more to this though.

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Star Wars - All Media Types, Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Cartoon) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: CT-21-0408 | CT-1409 | Echo & Omega (Star Wars: The Bad Batch), CT-21-0408 | CT-1409 | Echo & Hunter & Omega & Tech & Wrecker (Star Wars: The Bad Batch), Jango Fett & the Clones, CT-21-0408 | CT-1409 | Echo & CT-27-5555 | ARC-5555 | Fives Characters: CT-21-0408 | CT-1409 | Echo, Omega (Star Wars: The Bad Batch), Jango Fett, Boba Fett, Clone Force 99 | Bad Batch Additional Tags: Angst, Introspection, Kaminoans Being Assholes (Star Wars), Clone Trooper Reconditioning (Star Wars), Mind Manipulation, Post-Season/Series 01, Medical Experimentation, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, Good Parent Jango Fett, until the Kaminoans meddled, perceived character death, Implied/Referenced Character Death, Hopeful Ending, CT-21-0408 | CT-1409 | Echo & CT-27-5555 | ARC-5555 | Fives are Twins, CT-21-0408 | CT-1409 | Echo Needs a Hug, Timeline What Timeline, I mess with them just a little, not noticeable just the Kamino years Series: Part 12 of Star Wars One-shots and unfinished WIPs. Summary:

Echo was the oldest of the Bad Batch, and he was sure they knew it. But he knew they didn’t know quite how much older he was. He was a lot older than they realised, he remembered things they weren’t alive for. And before she met them in that corridor, he remembered Omega.

Need part two but don’t like the joke about giving her back (if omega heard/saw that I would feel like I am unwanted so hopefully that’s cleared up and not joked about especially since she’s a abused teenager who doesn’t need her older brothers talking about taking her back!).

Sorry I love Omega and she’s also been through hell! Every other clone got to be with at least one of their brothers but NOT Omega unfortunately....she was tested on the whole time and most importantly always alone and never allowed to be with her brothers! It’s actually pretty heartbreaking if you ask me!

Can’t wait to read part two though I’m just very protective of her because of the HELL she’s been through ALL alone and no love or support in the slightest!

This two-parter is once again deticated to the wonderful modern batch art of @transformersluna

I will soon be posting these on Archive of our own but I have to wait on that little mail thingy.

Ps: english is not my first language so please dont be too disappointed in my writing but I wanted as many people as possible to be able to read what I write.

TBB-Part of growing up (Part 1)

Clutching the steering wheel tightly with his white knuckled hands, he parked on the side of the road leading to the house of Omega's friend Hera. The two met after Omega's prolonged period of isolation at school and soon became inseparable. So it was no surprise that Hera, who was throwing a big party (supervised, of course) for her 15th birthday, made Omega her special festivities coordinator.

When Hunter dropped her off there that afternoon, he promised to pick her up again, no later than 9 p.m. Rolling her eyes and pointing out that she wasn't a baby anymore that needed constant supervision, they finally agreed on 9:30 p.m. Wide victory smile, she skipped up the stairs to Hera's house and fell into her friend's arms on the porch. Hera's father behind them putting up garlands and fairy lights on the porch roof. He waved at Hunter with a friendly smile, and of course Hunter returned the gesture. And with another wave from Omega, he started the car and drove back home. Biting his lips, he thought of her last words.

-Hunter I'm not a baby anymore-

Something strange twisted in his chest at those words, accompanied by the usual turmoil of guilt. If only they had taken her out of Nala Se's poisonous hands sooner. He refused to call her a mother for what she did to each of them. But that was all over now, and Tech had already told him at least 100 times that, technically, since he didn't know about Omega at all until, she was 9 years old, it wasn't his fault.

However, after they learned of her existence, the top priority was to get her out of the abusive household of Nala Se as soon as possible. This turned out to be much more difficult than anticipated. A long uphill battle that Hunter and his brothers fortunately won. Omega had had to overcome a lot since then. But she had always been able to count on each of them. All Hunter ever wished for her was that she could have a normal childhood and grow up protected. Only, unfortunately, she didn’t have a chance to start that sooner. Bittersweet. He knew everything was better now.

He heard someone shouting behind him and stared into the rearview mirror. A shock of blond hair crept up to the side of the blue work truck. Turning around she waved once more and then reached for the driver's door.

''You're late.'' he sighed, eyebrows raised.

''Just-'' she turned her left wrist ''15 minutes. Sorry,'' she hissed. The apology only half-serious and delivered in a Chrosshair eske tone. He didn't even had to look at his sister, her eye roll almost audible. Defiance graced her face. He shook his head. She seemed to be downright looking for trouble with her brothers lately. Hunter remembered that teenage years were unpleasant but staying calm about a behavior he wouldn't let any of his brothers get away with was particularly challenging. Cross, to everyone's surprise, seemed to be the best at dealing with it. Showed her patience and understanding when no one else had any left. Hunter envied him for that.

Eventually it all would pass, Echo had said, and he clung tightly to that. Swallowing, he turned his head toward her.

''How was it?" he tried to start again.

''Great-'' Her voice sounded dishonest and pressed but for some reason Omega tried to fool him with a smile. She slid down in the passenger seat and leaned her head against the window. -not a good sign- Her features twitched whenever a streetlight illuminated her face. At the next traffic light, he eyed her more closely. Her nose was slightly red, her eyes glassy and dull. An outsider would probably not have noticed this, but Hunter knew better. No something was definetly up. -Was that why she was late?-

''You want to tell me what's going on?’’ His free hand reached for hers but she was faster and quickly slipped it into her jacket pocket. A sting to his heart. ''No. I just want to go home.'' A mixture of exasperation and anger. He pressed his lips together and nodded. With the radio murmuring softly in the background, he began to think.

Was it time for her monthly thing again? He thought back - A quick math break later established not for another two weeks or so- that couldn’t be it then. He cast her a suspicious look out of the corner of his right eye. When that became an issue some time ago, he was very grateful that Tech had taken over that particular conversation. He was very nonchalant and matter of fact about these kinds of situations and everyone, including Omega, appreciated that.

Something seemed to slide heavily into his stomach. He swallowed hard against it. What if someone tried to make advances on her? What if she tried to fight back? He kept hearing on the news that all kinds of things like that happened to young women. Why had he let her go to that stupid party? He growled.

''Hunter- I think Wrecker would prefer if you leave the steering wheel in the car.'' Omega turned to him with a startled look. He looked at his cramped hands which seemed to have parked the car by themselves in front of their house. Unease shook him to his very core. Something seemed to snap behind his pupils.

''We're going to talk about this now.'' his voice almost shouting in the standing car. She put on a pouty face. Her specialty. ''It can't go on like this. We're all not going to take this much longer, and you know that very well.'' Any bottled-up frustration seemed to spill out of him all at once. He knew it wasn't fair to take it out on someone half his age but he couldn't help himself. Maybe a good scolding would finally get her to open up. Heart hammering in his chest, he turned in the seat with his whole body facing her. He saw her blink heavily, heard a gulp and immediately regretted what he was doing. ''Omega-'' he started softly. But it was already too late.

She fled out the door, huffing and sniffling, and slammed the car shut with way more force than needed. He jumped out of the truck and tried to catch up with her. But she was faster. Without taking off her shoes or petting Gonky, she trudged loudly up the stairs to her room.

''Hello?’’ Echo's voice faded from the left side of the house cut off by the slamming of the upper bathroom door.

"LEAVE the house alone, will Ya?" Hunter called after her. He heard something muffled yelling back at him but for everyone’s sake he ignored it.

Hunter's footsteps came to a stop at the bottom of the stairs. The squeak from the upper floors attic stairs announced her withdrawal. With another heavy sigh, he sat down on the steps and began to take off his shoes. The little Cat coming closer. Her green eyes sparkling. She meowed softly. ''Hey Gonky-" he stretched his hand further out. ,,Don’t worry. I didn’t forget about you.'' the little grey cat pressed her head affectionately against his shin. He nuzzled the back of her neck with his fingertips. Purring loudly, he lifted her in his arms and went into the living room to join his brothers.

"Well, that didn't seem to go over nicely." Tech chided. His eyes fixated on Hunters expression. He shrugged his shoulders, sitting down beside him. Gonky still in his arms.

"Seems to be her new usual if you ask me." He stared at the TV, not realizing it was turned off. "I cant seem to get through to her." He lowered his eyes on the cat. His breath hitched. "I yelled at her."

Wrecker gasped, Echo and Techs expressions remained neutral patiently waiting for him to continue with his confession. "And Echo before you try to lecture me- I know I shouldn't have. But I tried to guilt trip her to telling me what her problem with us is." The little cat massaged his chest with tandem movements. A short silence with muffled sounds above them followed.

Ever the observant one, Tech said "You shouldn't take hormonal imbalances evoked by adolescence too personal Hunter." His tone offering neither solace nor rebuke. He picked his crossword puzzle back up and scribbled a word into the white squares. Echo leaned forward, facing him. "She'll come around. She always does." He had a reassuring smile to offer, and Hunter took it gladly. His brother was right. He knew that. Even after a particularly bad mood swing, she still searched the company of her brothers. But Hunter couldn't shake the feeling that this was different. He anticipated the worst.

Trying not to startle Gonky he fumbled in his back pocket for his cell. Message from Cross bright on his screen. A gif from their conversation earlier. Too bad he worked night shifts. He could have needed his youngest brother right now. Hunter clicked the icon and typed.

Is it too late to give her back?

Seconds later, a speech bubble appeared. Three smiley faces with tears of laughter.

Fire station? Give me 15 minutes tops. Every word pinched with sarcasm.

Don’t be late. He jokingly wrote and added a scrouchy face for good measure. Clearly trying to overshadow his own insecurities he felt when it came to her parentage. Damn he loved his little sister, but she could push him to his limits, that was for sure. Cross typing again, Hunter hoped it would be something beneficial. But because it was Crosshair he was talking to; he knew it wouldn’t be.

Don't bash your heads in until I get back. I have to hold the camera after all. A gif of a monkey cartoon character swinging his wooden bat. Have to work now. Fucking nighttime walk-throughs.

Huffing he clicked the power button of his cell. Gonky slowly awoke from her tandem movements and began to creep across Hunter's lap between Tech and his crossword puzzle, which he had since finished. They heard heavy footsteps again, complemented by the crashing sound of glass and a loud drawn-out groan. What had gotten into her? Before the party she had seemed ok. Fine even, more than usual in the recent weeks.

His pulse raced as he rose from the couch. Tech pushed Gonky off his lap. ''I'll be right behind you.'' Hunter held him back with one hand and shook his head. No. he had to fix this on his own. To make her feel better about what the hell was bothering her. Starting now.

Can we just,.,.accept that both Crosshair and Hunter had their reasons for doing what they did?? And honestly neither of them really did anything wrong??

Hunter left Crosshair because he tried to kill them. He didn’t understand anything about the chip, he really thought Crosshair had just lost his mind. And as soon as he learned about it and how to fix it, we immediately jumped to episode 8 where Crosshair tried to incinerate them with a jet engine. He tried to communicate that the chip was affecting him, and Crosshair didn’t care. Hunter couldn’t even get himself or Omega out of that situation unharmed. He had no way to snag Crosshair from his squadron of stormtroopers out for murder. After Bracca, Hunter was focused on getting Omega back because she’s just a kid; she isn’t with the empire, she hasn’t been chasing them down and almost killing them. From Hunter’s POV, the possibility of getting Crosshair to come with them willingly or even at all is looking bleak and even though he knows it’s not Crosshair’s fault, he’s been so overwhelmed with trying to keep the people relying on him safe and right now he doesn’t think Crosshair is relying on him. And honestly, how were they even supposed to know where Crosshair was half the time? He wasn’t on Kamino 24/7 and the Batch isn’t exactly swimming in imperial informants. But that aside, of course he was thinking about Crosshair; Hunter is loyal to a fault and you can just see the emotional pain that flashes across his face whenever Crosshair is mentioned because that’s his little brother and he couldn’t save him and he feels like he failed. Hunter never was and I don’t think ever can be indifferent when it comes to the people he loves. Whether you like it or not, Hunter was trying his best to keep everyone safe and stop running suicide missions because the galaxy was changing and he was trying to change too. He did nothing wrong.

Now Crosshair.

To all of you calling him a Nazi and saying that the animators and writers intentionally lightened his skin just to make a racist show of dominance, stop it. He was referring to their genetic enhancements being superior. That’s it. He’s always hated regs because let’s be fair the regs were never exactly good to him either (AFTERMATH). Now let’s just take a look at how the chip works shall we!! We know from Rex and Wrecker that clones know what they’re doing while under control of the chip and they’re powerless to stop themselves. So we know in Aftermath that the chip was strengthened to an insane degree, and Crosshair could still see himself taking head shots on his brothers and trying to murder them and he couldn’t stop no matter how badly he wanted to. He was powerless. And then the Batch left; at this point he probably understands that his brothers had to go. They’d regroup. They’d know this wasn’t his fault and they’d come back.

Months pass. Crosshair doesn’t know about the solemn looks the Batch exchange when he’s mentioned. Crosshair doesn’t know that they can barely get food for themselves. Crosshair doesn’t know that Wrecker has flat out said he misses him. Crosshair doesn’t know how Tech said “it doesn’t appear he’ll be needing it” with a twinge of sadness in his voice while giving Omega his comm. Crosshair doesn’t know how much Hunter hates himself for leaving and that Hunter was always planning on going back to him someday because someday he’d have the perfect plan and he could save everyone this time. How could Crosshair know?

More time passes. Crosshair probably still has his chip on but he’s still in there, watching himself become more and more important to the Empire. No rescue attempts. Not one. How awful does he have to feel?? They went to get Echo out of Skako with no backup and they didn’t even know Echo and they can’t go back for him? And here’s the Empire, giving him power and some semblance of control. Things are changing fast and now he has nobody but himself to adjust with, and besides, he’s always had an egotistical side so maybe being a commander and putting the regs in their place isn’t so bad to him after all. He’s alone. He adapts or he dies, that’s the job and that’s all he has now.

Onto Bracca!! If Crosshair is telling the truth about getting his chip out, I firmly believe it had to have been after the events of Reunion. It wouldn’t make sense otherwise; “if I wanted you dead, you would be” sweetheart giving the order to have them incinerated and starting to walk away really seems like you wanted them dead and then going from ordering Omega to be executed to telling Hunter that if he cares about her he should let her go and be safe away from them??? You can’t tell me that Bracca!Crosshair wouldn’t have dragged Omega back into the training room and killed her right there just to keep them from choosing her over him. So let’s just assume for now that Crosshair wasn’t lied to and his chip is out (I’m still holding onto a scrap of hope to the contrary because A. there’s no scar B. HE’S STILL HOLDING HIS HEAD and C. my boy isn’t making any SENSE he just killed off a bunch of Imperial stormtroopers to convince the Batch to join his Empire that he cares so much about??) it had to have happened after Bracca I said what I said idc. If the chip is out, I’m sure his head is still an absolute foggy mess because lord only knows what cranking those chips up to full strength several times will do to you, but suddenly he’s realizing that he’s still angry with them. He’s still hurt. He’s still very much alone. Maybe they never cared about him at all.

And don’t get me started on any “if he did any of this willingly he is irredeemable” garbage. How many times did Kallus almost kill the Ghost crew?? I’m sorry, was it not Kallus who ordered the Lasat genocide?? Don’t take this the wrong way, I adore Kallus and his redemption arc was one of the most beautiful things about Rebels but the point is if he can do all of those horrible things for the Empire for years and is still allowed a redemption stemming from realizing everything he thought he was fighting for was a fiction, THEN SO IS CROSSHAIR. With that side note out of the way let’s think about how alone and betrayed Crosshair feels by the Batch and let’s realize that after they left Ryloth, after they left him again, what does he want?? He wants them. He doesn’t want to kill them, he doesn’t want them imprisoned and he doesn’t want to make them pay. He wants to fight side by side with them again, he wants his brothers back. And even though he’s so beyond hope that they still care about him, heck he literally said “don’t make the same mistake twice; don’t make me your enemy” he thinks they were enemies and he still cares about them so freaking much that he went through an entire elaborate scheme to get the whole Batch on Kamino and set up the stormtroopers’ deaths to prove his loyalty that they could have if they just gave him some of their loyalty too. “Loyalty means everything to the clones” is starting to get a really bitter taste innit??

The point of this longwinded rant my friends is to beg y’all to stop being so black and white about these two. They’re both human, they both have made mistakes and have regrets, they’re both trying their best to survive in a galaxy flipped upside down. Things played out how they had to and they’re both victims of the real villain of Star Wars, who has always been Palpatine. The fact that there is so much to unpack with these two characters shows how flipping amazing the writers are!! They’re so layered and complex it’s literally like they’re real!! So please. Stop hating on them so freaking loudly. They’re my boys and they both deserve a warm hug and a nap after the season they’ve had

BOUGHT @galacticproblems stuff before AND I HAVE LOVED EVERYTHING!!!! Need more Omega (wish I could find her and Grogu ANYTHING together since they are my FAVORITE CHARACTERS OF ALL TIME lol and Cross is my favorite sibling for Omega… need more of ANYTHING of her and Cross too… more likely to find last 2 than first lol!)!!!

I HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!

My Tech helmet charms are back in stock, along with some new boys! Fives, Cody, and Wolffe have joined the squad. I have my shop right HERE.

Love Languages: The Bad Batch and Sad Omega

Summary: Omega is sad and the guys try to show her some love, in their own unique ways.

Note: slightly AU.

Affirmation

"If the Kaminoans say I'm special, they'll always send someone after me. This won't ever stop." Omega wrapped her arms tightly around her knees and hunched over, as if trying to shrink into herself.

Echo frowned deeply, brow knitted with concern. He knelt down beside her and looked her straight in the eyes.

"You are special, Omega. Be proud of that." He put his hand on her shoulder and squeezed it gently. "Don't worry about anything else. We'll take care of the rest."

Acts of Service

"Omega?" Tech walked over to where the girl sat. What a dejected sight she was, alone in the shadows.

Omega looked up miserably.

Tech cleared his throat and handed her a comm device.

"I made this for you. With this, you will always have a way to contact us." Tech refrained from mentioning the close call she had with the bounty hunter on Pantora. The trauma was still too fresh.

Omega's face brightened and she took the comm device. "Thank you, Tech," she whispered as she regarded the commlink with utmost reverence.

Physical Touch

"What's the matter, 'mega?" Asked Wrecker. She sat huddled on the floor, knees drawn up to her chest, a forlorn look on her face.

"I'm just afraid they will never stop coming after me. After us." She looked up at him, worry creasing her features.

Wrecker squatted down in front of her, face serious. "Don't you worry about them," he said in a low, reassuring voice. "No one comes near you when we're around. Yeah!" He slammed his fist into his open palm. "We'll make sure of that!" He reached out a huge hand and ruffled Omega's hair boisterously, making the girl giggle and try to swat his hand away.

Giving Gifts

"Hey, Omega?" Hunter sat down beside her. She looked so helpless and lonely sitting in a dim corner on the Marauder's floor.

"Hi." She replied softly, eyes downcast. She had her arms so tight around her knees, it looked like she was trying to disappear into herself.

Seeing her like this tugged at his heart. He sighed, then remembered his purpose in coming. He took a deep breath and smiled.

"Close you eyes. I have a surprise for you."

She finally lifted her gaze. Sad brown eyes met his, and his smile nearly faltered. Hunter tried to convey as much warmth as he could with his expression.

Omega closed her eyes.

"Hold out you hand," he instructed. She did as told. Hunter gently placed a small wooden item in her hand. He watched as her mouth quirked up, eyebrows raised in curiosity.

"Okay, you can open your eyes now."

She opened her eyes and her smile turned into a grin as she held up the small wooden tooka carving to her eyes. She picked it up and turned it over in her fingers slowly, mouth dropping open as she remarked at how perfectly carved and smooth and beautiful it was.

"Look at its little nose!" She squealed in delight. "Thank you so much Hunter!" She threw her arms around his neck and hugged him.

Hunter exhaled softly and hugged her back.

Quality Time

Crosshair observed the small figure sitting in a dark corner of the ship. His sharp eyes noted the gloomy look on her face and the occasional quivering of her lips. He looked away with the intent of ignoring her, but yet another shuddering breath drew his gaze back to her.

Annoyed, he spat out his toothpick and crossed the distance between them in three quick strides and scowled down at Omega.

"Alright. Spit it out. That's thrice already. What's wrong with you?"

Omega looked up, her eyes widening in fear when she saw his face. She quickly looked down and buried her face in her knees.

"Nothing," she mumbled. "I-I'm sorry," she added in a whisper.

He glowered down at her, hands crossed over his chest. She seemed to grow even smaller as she hugged her knees tightly, hunching over, face pressed tightly to her knees as if she was trying to sink into the floor.

Crosshair blew out his breath and shook his head, and quietly sank to the the floor; close enough to hear her, but not too close to intimidate her further. He hadn't missed her frightened expression earlier.

They sat in silence for some time; he chewing on his toothpick and she sighing to herself. At one point he thought she'd fallen asleep when the sighs stopped. He turned to check, and saw her staring at him with wide-eyed awe.

"What?" He snapped, raising an eyebrow.

She blinked. "Uhm..have you been sitting here long?" She ventured timidly.

"Long enough to know there's a problem." He shifted on the floor, stretching a leg out in front of him, and stared fixedly ahead.

From the corner of his eye he saw her mouth clamp shut, then open, then close again. With a final heaving sigh she turned and settled against the wall, leg sprawled out in a similar manner as his. She also rested her hands on her folded knee, just like he did. He snorted softly in amusement and gave her a sidelong look.

"Thanks for sitting with me," she finally said. "It was getting kinda lonely here."

They continued to sit in silence, companions in solitude.

**************Reblogs appreciated ^_^*************

Breaking down Hunter and Omega’s relationship. Pt 2.

We’re back at it, here with the second post in this father-daughter-space-duo series! You guys responded to the first post better then I expected in all honesty! I didn’t think my insights were viewed as so important lmao. I don’t really think much introduction is needed here, the post itself is very self explanatory.

(Pasted paragraph: I would just like to add a disclaimer here. I am, in no way whatsoever, slating the other batchers for having differing relationships with Omega. I absolutely adore everything single one of the boys, and I think they all have wonderful and unique interrelations with her. Although I may point out these different approaches in comparison to Hunter’s, I am not stating these engages are wrong, just different is all!

I’m going to separate this into a little series- covering each episode in a separate post, which I’ll have tagged as the series progresses. Once I’ve tackled these two, as they’re my favourites, I’m going to move on to each individual Batcher and perhaps a few other dynamics such and Hunter and Crosshair, or Wrecker and Omega! Let me know what you guys would like to see!)

Cut and Run: S1/E2

We kick off this episode with Hunter walking in on Echo inspecting Omega and Wrecker fast asleep on the floor. His face is very relaxed and he clearly finds it very sweet that her childlike curiosity has tired her out. His line, “ha, well this is a first,” while holding a strong gaze in Omega’s direction, suggests that she’s been exploring for quite some time, unleashing her endearing juvenile inquisition in the batchers presence. Hunter continues to claim she’s curious, using the same lighthearted tone he has always used in her regard, sparing the conversation in the medical wing on Kamino. This continues to confirm his gentle approach and concern towards the young clone.

When Echo confronts him over the situation at hand, it’s evident that Hunter hasn’t actually thought about what he’s going to do with Omega, yet by the look of quizzicality on his face. I personally took this as a sign that his initial thoughts were always “we’re going to lay low with her, look after her, while keeping everybody else safe.” It’s clear here that Echo has differing ideas that Hunter hadn’t even began to consider, and I think that’s what perplexes him in this moment. He needs to consider everybody.

The kid is up and awake! (Let the havoc commence aha.) Omega’s reaction to sunlight and dirt is definitely one of my favourite developmental moments of hers, it really sets in place that this little girl may have been an intelligent medical assistant, but she lacks experience, and still needs a guiding hand to help her through this new world she’s never endured before. I’d like to point out that it is, in fact, Hunter who stops to watch Omega’s reactions, and his FACE when she’s playing in the dirt! I’ve never seen such a parental smile on a man so stoic! I feel like I’m repeating myself a lot, but he is so endeared by her! She’s a breath of fresh air in Hunter’s very toxically routined life, and I love that for both of them. When they finally reach Cut’s land, Hunter is the one to pull her back, despite the fact she had to run between Echo and Tech to get to him. And upon Suu and Cut’s arrival, I actually didn’t realise that Omega creeps behind Hunter, most likely because these are strangers she doesn’t know and she feels she needs the protection. This confirms a clear bond between them has already began to flesh out.

There isn’t too much to say about the introduction and inhibitor chip discussion, as Omega spends a decent amount of that time exploring Cut and Suu’s house, but I will just say that it’s a nice touch that she ends up back at Hunter’s side when her part of the conversation is needed, she always seems physically drawn to him. Which brings me to my next point. Upon Shaeeah and Jek’s arrival, Omega once again creeps behind Hunter out of fear, only deciding to approach when formally addressed to do so. *Sigh*, and when Shaeeah pulls Omega out to play, and she halts to ask for Hunter’s permission, which is clearly given through a series of comforting smiles, is a plain indication of a trusted child-parental relationship. I must admit, Hunter’s face is pretty hilarious when everybody practically calls him out on his parental role- it’s just “why are you all staring at me..?” Because you’re acting like a dad, my dude.

Okay! Down to Cut and Hunter’s discussion. It’s a nice touch that Hunter is the first one outside to watch Omega play, swiftly followed by Cut, who, rightfully so, questions her existence. Although instead of explaining Omega’s origin (and by that I just mean that she’s a medical assistant clone from Kamino), he states that it doesn’t matter what the Kaminoans created her for, because she’s with them now, and to be with them she doesn’t need a purpose, she’s just a kid and should be allowed to act like one. Cut goes ahead to tease him over the ins and outs of raising a child, but to Hunter it was a no-brainer, Kamino wasn’t safe, so she was coming with them, as I’ve said previously, he saw NO negotiations. And as Cut says, “I (you) have to do what’s best for them.” This adds sentiment to the narrative of Hunter’s commanding role within the squad and Omega specifically.

So I’m shifting ahead slightly to the ball incident, and I have a LOT to say about this scene. First of all, it’s clearly evident that Hunter is the first to leave the house, along with Cut and Suu following closely behind. Associating this trio together is purposeful on the animators part in my opinion, they intentionally exclusively had Hunter leave with the other parents in the situation, isolating him specifically with that role in Omega’s life. When he finally reaches her, we see the protective hand come straight out to guard her against the Nexu, a typical trait they’ve established between them.

Now we move on to the confrontation. This is the first time Hunter raises his voice at Omega, and immediately she turns herself away from him, curling into her shoulder and making herself small. Omega is going through a lot of emotions right here, she’s afraid, anxious, and she’s being forced to deal with the fact that for the first time, Hunter is mad at her, for something she didn’t even intend to do wrong. Whereas from Hunter’s perspective, he hasn’t acknowledged she’s already in a bit of a state, and instead feels the need to immediately lecture her for her mistakes….although this lasts all but thirty seconds. Upon Cut’s attempts to diffuse the situation by having him pull Hunter away and reiterating that “she’s (Omegas) not a soldier”, his face immediately softens, he forgot for a moment, but now he realises and instantly the features are set in a regretful frown, he clearly feels awful and misrepresented. Hunter continues to observe Cut’s behaviour as he comforts Omega, who seems to take to the attention like a kicked puppy, lip trembling, eyes shaky, shoulders hunched, and I honestly think as Cut carries her away- is the exact moment Hunter realises he isn’t good enough for Omega. (I’ll further out on this in a moment)

I only want to briefly touch upon Omega’s gunners nest scene because I don’t think it has too much impact on her relationship with Hunter, however I would like to address the symbolism. I personally see the removal of her headpiece and the addition of her bangs as a new beginning, attaining the contrasting yellow light of Salucemi in comparison to Kamino, where she would’ve been given her jewel. Considering the episode’s outcome, Omega is no longer the tightly held, quivering little girl from Kamino, and instead she brings a slight unruliness to her aura, a little cheeky, definitely her brother’s sister. Still a sweetheart of course, but with a matter of confidence and boisterous behaviour to her. She seems to bounce out of her sadness quite easily here, as she seems suddenly awkward- yet curious- over Tech’s plan later on.

Furthering out into my previous point about Hunter believing Omega deserved much better in comparison to what he could provide: his conversation with Suu. “Protecting them is what we do.” The realisation on his face when she says this, it’s so…raw, something he’s taking time to comprehend. He heeds her words because he knows she and Cut are experienced in this field, they are better suited for Omega than he and the boys are, he believes he isn’t good enough for her, and this is projected when he insists ‘Mega leave with the family of four. Although Suu questions his sincerity, and he does indeed dodge the straightforward answer, this is what Hunter anticipates is best for Omega. He’s putting her needs above his happiness, no matter the heartache.

Moving along slightly, as Omega and Hunter spend a short period of time away from each other during the ship impoundment, I briefly wanted to touch upon the tone of Hunter’s voice when he learns Omega is on route to their position…by herself in a heavily armed spaceport. His eyes widen in a moment of fear, his voice is suddenly strained, he is struck with another raw emotion, something he frankly can’t obtain right now, and it’s let out in a minor threat towards his brothers- “if something happens to her-“ a clearly indication of worry.

This next point absolutely breaks my heart, the poor dears, both of them. Upon Omega’s arrival, Hunter is left to explain his forced proposal that she should leave Salucemi with Cut and Suu. As usual he completes his little ritual of taking her shoulders and crouching to her level, although this time he can’t quite look her in the eyes, a clear sign of regret and guilt, because he doesn’t want to give her away, he knows deep down she belongs with them, but he doesn’t believe he has what it takes to raise and protect her. The way Omega’s eyes crumple really catches me here, she’s being left, again… All this kid has ever known her entire life has either been abandonment, abuse or isolation, and she’s being passed on to strangers by the only people she’s ever been able to trust, and not only is it clearly breaking her heart, but she’s taking it personally, she thinks she’s at fault, much like Hunter does. Her line: “but, I want to stay with you.” compressed with the quivering tone and her precious accent really aides her desperation here, it conveys her in an adequate and very precise way.

Starting a brief new point to split these up slightly: I bring us to the continuous glances shared between them. Omega consistently looks over her shoulder to Hunter, she doesn’t want her eyes to leave him for one moment, she’s savouring his face, his details, for the very last time. And equally, Hunter is letting go of something he doesn’t want to leave behind, he likes the kid, to the point where his own self depreciation and doubt have been forced ahead in order to protect her, he can’t risk anything at this point. I’d also like to quickly mention how beautifully Omega’s eyes are animated, they intel so much, those precious little doe irises hold such story to them.

Moving on to a little jump cut enduring the batch’s escape and Omega’s return: Hunter’s tone of voice when addressing Wrecker is so pained, and his facials match it perfectly “she’s not com-“ it’s almost as though he’s biting back the urge to sprint headfirst into the gunfire if only to catch up to the little clone before it’s too late.

However, seeing as she’s managed to find her own way back that wouldn’t be exactly necessary. I think it’s a nice point that Hunter is the one to rush to Omega’s aide after she is grabbed by the trooper (flowing a brief flash of concern crossing his face), although Wrecker might’ve been closer, it’s a nice hint to their subtle closer bond. He, once again, crouches to her level although an unnecessary step in the situation, and I see this as another nod to their familiarised dependancy.

Finally, my last point for this episode, is their final conversation within the last few minutes. It’s faint, but the fact that the other batchers are all busying themselves in the cockpit, leaving Omega and Hunter to chat privately, is a very distinct use of separation. It also should be noted that Omega is the one to approach Hunter, this shows a decent level of not only maturity on her part, but trust between them as family, she trusts both him and herself enough to advance on a delicate situation, we even see her hesitate slightly, before pushing forward with a slip of confidence, and that takes a lot of gut from a little kid. She stands her ground, but with compliment. She very much reminds me of Hunter himself in the brig, assertive yet respectful. And speaking of Hunter, his face is just absolutely guilt-ridden when talking to her, because he too made the mistake of attempting to give her away, no matter how much good he thought it would do them both. While Omega is admitting she has a lot to learn in regards to safety and tactility, Hunter is suggesting he has a lot to learn about raising a child and providing the necessary care for her. It’s a brave moment for both of them, to be honest and open, and yet its received extremely well on both ends.

“If this is where you want to be…then this is where you’ll stay.” The admiration in his voice, the admiration in her eyes! They absolutely adore one another, and it melts my heart every time it’s displayed!

I hope you liked my analysis of Hunter and Omega’s relationship in episode two of The Bad Batch! Of course, I’d love to discuss these two with anybody who might be interested, so please feel free to drop me an ask or a DM, and if you’re captivated enough I’d totally recommend looking out for my future posts on the topic!

As always, much love to our ‘Megs and Hunter, thank you for reading! 💛

Part One: Aftermath

Shared this already (not sure if it was from the same poster) I believe but I needed to do it again. I absolutely LOVE these two characters so much especially together (not sure why but they make me happy especially together). I believe that she makes Crosshair think in a positive/different way (she is the kindest and is one of the most compassionate people in all of the Star Wars universe. Also, she loves him even after he specifically told his men to shoot her or anything else that he did against her. I think/believe that Crosshairs chip is still in but just malfunctioning and not working like it used to. So I think he still loyal to the empire in most ways (saw that he can’t still be COMPLETELY loyal as he still killed his men whether to get them to join the empire. That is something against what “good soldiers” do in my opinion) but at the same time Omega makes Crosshair have more of a conscience if that makes sense any sense. If you make or find any Fanfictions or anything else with Crosshair AND Omega especially interactions with them...please somehow share them with me if possible. Thank you so much, I’m so obsessed with finding everything with these two in them! Sorry for the long explanation and request...hopefully it doesn’t bother anyone. May The Force Be With You!

Speaking of content I desperately crave. Bring back toasty toothpick man. I will not rest till the Bad batch is a whole family again.

YES!!! AND the put the CHILD into one by herself! Only makes sense for her to try and save AZ (thank you Crosshair...love anything with Crosshair and Omega for some reason)!!!

Dave really put the two problem children in a "get along" pod lol