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iinafarawaygalaxii · 1 year ago

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Star Wars the Clone Wars: Bloodline

Into the Unknown : Chapter 4

Timeline: 22bby

Summary: Vera begins her journey and makes new friends. Despite where she was headed, this was the first time she had been excited for the unknown, venturing back into the darkness that brought her here, only this time... she's not alone. However... How long will she be able to hide her identity now that she's in the direct path of danger?

Word Count: 4.7k

Warnings: light fluff

Rating: SFW

Notes: Please forgive me, I didnt run this past anyone and just decided to post since its been so long. Thank you for being super patient! life tends to get in the way quite often. Enjoy ^^

"ID please?", Vera handed the soldier her badge while examining other troopers and GAR personnel going through the same process to gain entry to the staging grounds for the republic cruisers. The giant metals walls tumbled into her view with a generous amount of clones walking to and from their assigned locations, "Okay, You check out. Welcome to the staging grounds Doctor. Right this way please.", he motioned towards the two troopers in blue... the same colors as Captain Rex’s.

"Thank you...", She said making her way as every step she took, eyes began to follow. Completely imbued on this woman in white. She was in her given medical attire wearing a white tunic, white pants and black boots as dark as her hair. It was atypical seeing a civilian women serving the republic but it was even more strange for the troopers to see a women in clone assigned uniforms. Though her sets where specifically tailored to her body, the design remained the same as the other troopers. She thought that would at least conceal a little- but attention was drawn and so were her nerves.

Pacing closer to her assigned escorts, "Doctor Cross!", a voice she happily recognized came to ear and when she turned around, she saw none other than, "Commander..!-", she hurried to him still shying away from the prying eyes that prickled her nervous system, "Its a relief to see you", she said exhaling loudly as she reached her arms around his neck pressing her body against his. The hug was unexpected but Cody wanted to take the moment in, realizing the ploy at hand. He winked at her and gripped her tightly, gently leaving his hands on her waist. "You're being deployed today, I came to make sure you got to the cruiser", he stated as he gently let go of her. Immediately- the eyes of the other troopers leave her, 'Thank the gods,' she thought as she blushed a little from Codys actions. She tucked a hair behind her ear peering up to the inspiration that lead her there, "Thank you Commander. Thats kind-", she winked back and continued, "I was told to meet the soldiers over there in blue." She pointed at the two soldiers who were just in the line of sight with blue markings, ones who armor was immaculately clean and the other with a blue handprint on his chest.

"Ah Fives and Echo", he exclaimed with a grin. "You know these men?", she questioned smiling back at the commander. He gently grins, remembering the moment him and Rex 'almost' saved a base trying to stave off a commando droid invasion led by General Grivous."Yes they are shinies of the 501st company. Commanded by Captain Rex, Ashoka Tano and General Skywalker. Good men, reliable...."

Hearing this information obviously stunned her as she closed her eyes whispering to herself, "of course", peering back up to the sky to regain her thoughts. She couldn't tell if she was feeling excitement or dread but Master Windu did warn her that she would be serving under a general with high casualties in the early morning briefing. "I see", she said, "Well, Im running a bit late, I should go...", she looked at him with a worrying expression as she finally gathered that shes putting herself in the same position her and her family were 10 years ago. Admittedly, she was scared. But somehow, as she turned to Cody who smiled kindly at her, she knew it was going to be okay. The Commander had a sense of her fear but he remained stoic and gave her a smile of confidence that went without words.... telling her she was going to be okay. Her heart throbbed as she returned the smile realizing that Cody was special. He saw right through her and came all this way just to see her off, despite his responsibilities.

The effort was there but... how to thank him? She inhaled deeply and exhaled, expelling the rest of her nerves and releasing the butterflies that have so casually made their appearance from the moment Cody said her name. "Thank you for seeing me off..... Commander", She planted a kiss on his cheek, wondering if that was maybe too much or too little. The hug was already a lot in front of this many people but the kiss sealed the letter for word to travel and even though they both knew that, he looked down to her and gently touched her chin, "May the force be with you...", he pinned his eyes on hers, slightly grinning as he went to put on his helmet. Their moment in pause informed them both that they did not forget their wondrous morning a few days ago. She felt the butterflies bundle deep in her stomach again as it did the morning they spent together. Only this time she did not have time or privacy to act upon her desire.

Deeply sadden by her thoughts of when she would see Cody again, she solemnly smiled, placing her hand on his chest plate, "and with you commander...", before turning away towards her escorts.

"Excuse me...", She said pulling the two troopers out of conversation, "My name is Doctor Cross, I was pointed to your direction, I'm supposed to board the Resolute at 0800. You wouldn't happen to be escorting me by any chance?",

"...."

Both troopers didn't respond only stared. Odd enough as it was, Vera continued, "....or maybe I interrupted the wrong troopers..?", she backed up a little and apologized for the intrusion but before she could turn and walk away, one elbowed the other, "u-uh Yeah.. y-yes, I mean no, erghmm... ", the trooper with a blue handprint on his chest piece cleared his throat as he gently pounded on his chest. "-Were here to escort you to the cruise ship...ma'am", finally responding, "Im CT-5555, but everyone calls me fives, this is Echo.", the attention shifted to the other trooper who was clearly in his own world but was so clean you wouldn't think he was a trooper. "Yes.. uh, pleasure to meet you Doctor."

Even though she couldn't see their faces through the helmet, she could tell that they were nervous. Very nervous. They all shook hands after introductions but Vera checked the time only to see that departure was in less than 10 minutes. "The pleasure is mine. Small note, don't call me ma'am.....-" She motioned her hand towards the cruisers, "-Shall we?", and started walking towards the gates.

Both Fives and Echos looked at each other, their minds meeting the same conclusion about their new.. Medic. "Ma'am…? Really?", Echo whispered to Fives ,"Shut up", Fives countered pushing his shoulder, as he took his leave to catch up to the doctor.

"So... seems like you know your way around...", Fives shyly states gripping the back of his neck, trying to start conversation. He was under the impression she might've been here before after her 'show' with Commander Cody. But he dare not ask and she dare not tell. "No, but while you guys are gawking at each other. Im the one running late.", she states, pushing forward. "I wonder why you're late.." Fives uttered under his voice before he was bumped into by echo passively telling him to shut up. Sure shes a tad bit behind after running into the Commander but those two? 'Ridiculous. They were definitely shinies' she thought picking up her pace to avoid the tardiness.

When Echo caught up to both of her he interrupted by mentioning he knew a shortcut to the ship. "Here, follow me". After passing through the gate and into the main building, they cut through several different hallways of the main terminal building, invading foot traffic to get to the overlook of the base. Once they stepped outside from the building, Vera walked to the edge of the overlook, viewing the hundreds of Republic Cruisers lining up and taking off from a base that seemed like it spanned for miles. She was in awe from the sight, beholden by the fact that many of these troopers who board this day may not return the next. It was a heavy burden to have in ones heart, realizing that every single one of these ships were filled with inexperienced troopers.... she couldn't imagine what it was like for the clones. The feelings they have leaving from the one place they ever known into a galaxy full of fire and fear. War had no place in Vera heart and each second she spent there reminded her of the dangers that lie ahead for not only her but the men she is now deemed to heal and protect.

Gods, what her father would say now- even her sister...

Amiss her sadness, as she peered over the sunlit base she was gently interrupted, "Doctor, this way", Echo said waving in the direction him and Fives were headed. They continued, rushing down stairs to get to the ground floor that lead out to the loading docks for the cruisers. Vera checked her watch; they were just a couple minutes behind but nonetheless- "We're almost there. If Captain Rex says anything about us being late say that the elevator was out of service." Fives stated, "Like he'll believe that-", Echo chipped back, rolling his eyes at the obvious farce, "Why lie?", Vera wondered, trying to understand why they were so keen on a fib, "We were late because I was talking to the Commander…"

"I wouldn't call that talking.." Echo whispered to Fives who whole heartedly agreed. They pushed through the corridor to the assigned docking area and saw General Skywalker, his padawan, and Captain Rex standing at the entry point. "Sir!", the boys stood at attention saluting their leaders with Vera just slightly in front of them. "At ease boys", General Skywalker says as he walked up to Vera;

"My, my, look who's late." He announced folding his arms, "I was beginning to think you weren't coming", smirking at the young Doctor. She rolled her eyes and prayed he wouldn't be like this the entire stay. "Well considering you just walked up moments before I did, I could say the same thing for you... General" Vera kicked back returning the mischievous grin. Anakin laughed and the young togurta smiled exchanging glances with Rex, "As sassy and you are witty. You'll fit in just fine Doctor.", He turned to the young Togurta motioning her to join the conversation, "Let me introduce you to my Padawan, Ahsoka Tano."

"Its nice to meet you Doctor Cross.", the little padawan timidly said, checking out their new medic.

'She's so young', Vera thought concerningly as she kneeled down to her level, "How old are you little one", peering up into Ahsokas eyes, "I just turned 14", she responded. Obviously nervous but it would make sense being so small fighting a war this large.

"You are young but strong. I see the fire in you." She stood up and placed a hand on her head, " Its a pleasure to meet your acquaintance. I look forward to knowing you miss Tano." At first Ashoka didn’t know what to think about the interaction. But something about the doctor gave her a warm feeling she couldn’t quitee put her finger on. All she knew is that she was there to help and that was enough.

"Ahsoka, I would like you to give a tour of the ship and introduce Vera to her quarters." Skywalker said as he began to walk off. Captain Rex normally would follow but just for a moment he stayed, still peering at Vera. Obviously, their last meet wasn’t the greatest and Rex wanted nothing more than to fix it. Due to his position he was required to fix it, especially since she is now his subordinate and another soul to protect. Trust was everything and as he stood there quietly, he finally made a move setting his hand on her shoulder, “I’m glad you decided to join, welcome to the 501st”. The Captain still had his helmet on, but when they made contact, their hearts nearly skipped a beat in sync, feeling the same fire, the same pull, as before. However, he stood pondering on this unknown affection and brought himself to his senses letting go of her shoulder before turning to follow General Skywalker.

Vera had no clue what happened but did find this goodbye a lot better than the last- she couldn’t help but smile. "What was that all about?", Ahsoka said raising an eyebrow, "I'm not entirely sure…” Vera responded, but wanted to see what Tano thought herself, “-you tell me little one." Vera continued smiling down at her with a warmth only she could give.

Ahsoka looked at Captain Rex walking away as he gently peeked back before disappearing into the cruiser with his men and General Skywalker. "Maybe he thinks you're pretty?", she wondered looking up at Vera. They both giggled as Vera rolled her eyes, contemplating the uncensored words she said, "Yeah maybe...". The thought of saying that made Veras heart flutter because if that was the case then maybe starting over with him wouldn't be so hard.

"Well I guess its just you and I! Come on let me show you around!", Ahsoka said excitedly walking towards the bridge door that lead to the ship. Vera at least felt at ease with little Tano. Though oddly enough, being around her kept sending flashbacks of her childhood with her younger brothers and sisters. The lack of their voices and presence in this world rendered her stomach distasteful and what hurt the most was their undying memory haunting her every footstep- even now. Nevertheless, her and Cersi survived and there was nothing more she could ask for, making her promise to her sister even stronger.

Leaving them behind was the hardest thing she had ever done. Even letting Cerci go with Amadala was hard but, going through this process means that both her and her little sister will be more protected and in the end? That was the goal.

After a tedious meet and greet between the many soldiers and medics on the ship including Kix who will become the new medic captain once training was over, she was finally introduced to her quarters. A moment she’s been desperately waiting for. "Here we are!", Ahsoka exclaimed. At first glance the quarters were barren. All that contained was a bed practically carved into the wall, a desk in the center of the room, and a counter against the back wall. The bathroom in retrospect was compact, only big enough to fit a standing shower, sink and a toilet. Despite its compact design, It was the largest room the ship had and it was the privacy which she was deeply grateful for in a ship full of testosterone. "Thank you little one." Vera smiled, placing a hand on Tanos head. "Anytime! Ill let you get settled. We are due to take off at 1700. If you'd like... we can go eat together in the mess hall after you're done?", She happily asked. "Sure, Ill comm you when Im finished here", Vera smiled as she watched Tano excitedly depart wondering why she was so giddy about her being there and as she began to trail off, she looked around the room- It was such an empty space and didnt feel like it was a home. I mean.. military rooms are not meant to resemble a home, she knew that, but it did not seem welcoming and that was for sure.

"I should start unpacking...", she said walking to the cargo container that had all the things she brought. After her meeting with Generals Kenobi and Windu a few days ago, she got to learn more about her positions and responsibilities but that doesn’t mean she had all the information she needed to be successful. She sifted through her belongings, looking for her data pad that contained more information about her deployment, "Ah found it", she grabbing the device and settled herself on the chair of the desk, swiping the thin layer of dust off before she began to read over the medical detachment and emergency applied medicine for the 501st.

Some time passed and it was nearly nighttime. After a whole lot of research, revisions and data entries to the medical unit, Vera glanced outside the ship window that was nearly as large as the room, watching as the sun started to set. "Only a few more hours till we take off...", she said not knowing when she would be back- or when she would see Cersi next. She closed her eyes and began to pray to her gods:

'Protos and Secundus, Hear me for Im about to journey into the unknown, I seek your guidance...'

The Gods were not something she quite believed in but after her ecpeience on her home world... if there was a chance they were still alive and listening she had to take it especially since now she’s off doing dangerous things and as she continued to pray, a tone from the door quietly pierces the room.

She opened her eyes and felt the fire again, simmering just lightly enough to release the butterflies that have been cooped up since being there. It was Rex. "Come in", she said gently still sitting at her desk. She put the holopad down and glanced back towards the door, seeing that Captain Rex has made his first visit. 'That didnt take long', she thought as she watched him take a couple steps into the room. He started by taking his helmet off but- his look… it seemed like he had nothing good to say and Vera was worried that maybe their argument turned into blind hatred . Of course, she didn’t want to judge too hastily, that’s what happened last time and clearly it didn’t turn out well. Maybe… maybe he just had a really good poker face?

The over thinking grew, which was her cosmic flaw but, deep down she knew a different side of him resided and that was the person she wanted to know. She inhaled and invited him forward as he came up to the front of her desk standing formally with his helmet on his side. She met his gaze and realized they were both on the same page about finding the right things to say. The long awkward silence consumed them both until finally Vera broke the glass and made a quick decision to just... apologize. "Captain-", she started blushing a little, fixing a strand of hair that fell from her loose updo but, before she could even continue, she was abruptly cut off with questions that simply threw her off. "Doctor Cross, I haven't been able to personally welcome you on board...How are you doing? Finding everything you need?", she stared for a moment, shocked that they didnt pick up from the last conversation they had. Was this his way of forgiving? If only she knew.

He waited for her response as she stood there wide eyed. She snapped herself out of her state, simply responding, "Im well Captain thank you for asking. Everything's fine on my part. Ill let you know if I need anything...." she grabbed the upper part of arm making her body language present at wanting something more than just this. The room suddenly got warm as Vera was thinking of the million ways she could just come out and apologize. However, little did she know, the awkwardness didn't go unnoticed. Rex smirked a little because he had already caught on that she wanted to apologize and quiet frankly he wanted nothing more but to apologize as well. They obviously had a bad initial meet and both of them wouldve never guessed theyd be in the same room days later. Apologizing almost turned into a responsibility at that point.

She slid her hand down her arm and started lightly grazing the top of her fingertips together trying to piece together the words she needed to express her regret to him... but where to begin-, "Captain I-",

"Wait", he interrupted, musking up the courage to speak first. He motioned a few steps closer placing himself just inches from you. "Theres something I need to say...", Vera freed her hands resting them at her side, relieved he clutched the opportunity before she did. He took a deep breath and continued, "What I said a few days ago to you.. It was uncalled for. I deeply apologize and personally... I.." He rubbed the back of his head as a light touch of pink grazed his cheeks. "I wanted to thank you for being here-", bravely enough he admitted to his resentment from their first conversation, "- I wasn't expecting you to say yes or even be here. Specifically- um..." he clears his throat and averts his gaze for a moment, recollecting himself before meeting her eyes with an assertive look. "If were going to be working together, Im hoping you would consider starting over..." Ahhh the guilt. Vera was overcome by the oblivious and insensitive things she had said to him. It most definitely wasn't her proudest moment and most importantly, it wasn't his responsibility to apologize for her crude statements.

"Captain I appreciate that but you have nothing to apologize for. I stepped over the line with my.. comments. It should be me asking for forgiveness...", She confidently met his look. Implicating the earnest of her statement. But the look began to fade when they registered how close they were to each other. He took a step back quickly regaining himself and his thoughts, "Look, the fact of the matter is you're here now. You being here proves that you do care and that much I respect", he said holding out his hand, "My name is Rex-", He offered his hand out to her. Vera couldn't help but smile. This wasn't the way she would've expected this to go, it just showed how good of Captain he is. Vera took his hand, "Either Captain or Sir?", they both let out small laughs, "Im Doctor Vera Cross...", she said letting go of his hand. "A pleasure.. Doctor."

'Finally", she thought instantly relieved. There was no more animosity or tip toeing around each other. Just something fresh and charming. Nevertheless, questions still remained. They definitely felt something and they were both determined to figure it out, but with these new conflicting feelings with Commander Cody? Her body language was being read again as the Captain realized she had other things on her mind. "We leave soon. Most of the troopers are heading to the cafeteria to eat before the next mission. But upper ranks like us eat somewhere else. I thought Id extend the invitation..", Vera snapped back to the moment and smiled. Appreciating the thought but Tano had asked a few hours ago and she didn't want to abandon her. "Sure Captain, although Ill have to meet you there. Ahsoka asked to eat together..." she responded. The Captain felt slightly upset that she already had plans but he would never let it show. Which was something he was inexplicably good at. "Okay. Ill see you there then", he put his helmet on and began to walk away. "Oh and Captain-", Vera said. He turned around in hopes that she would've changed her mind... instead, "Thank you...", she expressed softly as he gently gazed upon her seeing the sincerity in her eyes making him blush. Luckily he had his helmet on and now, though 'looking' at her became had newly became his guilty pleasure. He felt lucky for the armor. "Anytime.." he said smiling under his helmet before going about his way.

What bliss. Vera and Rex had their moment to start over. Moreover she realized that he felt as guilty as she did. In her prayers, she had mentioned her connection with Rex. What it was, why it was. "The force works in mysterious ways. Though I wonder what its plan is going forward." she said to herself as she pinged Ahsokas comm.

Shortly after dinner, the young padawan was called to the command bridge to plan the upcoming excursion for the capture of General Grievous, "I have to go Doctor, the lounge room is a few doors down if you like to check it out? You'll need this-" Ahsoka handed her a card with a red bar on the end, "only a select amount of people are allowed in the lounge. Most of the time Jedi use it to meditate and only some of the soldiers with higher rankings are allowed.... But its a great place to clear your mind", Vera obviously took her up on the offer and after saying their goodbyes, she made her way to a room that only contained a couple large windows, couch, and a small bar holding a couple bottles of very expensive whiskeys and wines. "How quaint. I guess this is where Coruscants investments go towards.", she said aloud feeling humbled that there wasn't anyone here which made sense since its a 'private access' room but it did feel rather lonely as she went to sit on the ledge of the window peering out as the ship began its grand adventure into darkness. She continued to watch as the ship broke the atmosphere delving into the grand mystery we call space, "Oh my..." Her eyes twinkled as the stars came into focus, glittering in the twilight of empty space as Coruscant began to fade. Everything sparkled in the darkness making you feel singled out in a void of nothingness though, Vera never minded that. Space was always such a curiosity for her.

"Its so beautiful...", she whispered to herself.

This was the second time she'd been to space. Bringing back unwanted memories but... things were different now. This was willing and she made a promise to herself as she peered out into the distance looking at the different colors of the stars that lit the universe, 'I will save as many as I can', placing her hand over her heart, swearing not only to protect but for salvation. She brought her attention to her reflection, thankful for all the little things that mattered that prepared her for this day. She wish her sister could see her now... and as she gleamed the door opened and in the reflection she saw none other than the Captain.

She instantly smiled

"Hello Captain.", She turned to him with a welcoming smile remaining in her spot as she wrapped her arms around her legs. The ledge was just big enough to do so and may have became her favorite spot on the entire ship. "Want some company?", he asked walking up to the bar pouring a couple drinks. "I wont complain..", She continued, looking out the window imagining all the worlds she would get to see good and bad. His footsteps trebled behind as he approached her, handing a whiskey glass and proceeded to sit across on ledge with her. "It never gets old.", he says sipping the amber colored whiskey peering out into the darkness with you, "and whats that?", she wondered as she brought her gaze to him. He was sitting on the ledge, facing her with one leg up and the other on the floor leaving an hand to hold the glass on his knee. He slowly leaned back against the wall and continued to look out simply responding, "the stars..", he took another sip giving a small laugh as he swirls his cup but as he looked up he saw Vera staring at him. "what?", he wondered raising a eyebrow taking another sip, "nothing, I just said something similar moments ago-", she swirled her drink around, smiling at her reflection. He loved the stars as much as she did and may have been the first thing they found in common. "The stars are no stranger to the universe yet, they remain one of the greatest mysteries in life... Regardless...", She took another sip, "Their beauty never gets old.." The whiskey warmed her chest but nothing warmed it more than the man sitting across from her and as they both agreed to their sentiments about the universe they sat there, quietly, enjoying their time together staring at the stars before the ship jumped into hyperspace,

taking them into the unknown.

Previous -

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the-sword-lesbian · 1 year ago

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The clack of her heels sounded as she stalked down the corridor leading from the docking bay.

“Madam Councilwoman,” the Officer saluted.

She sighed in annoyance. “Commander Kurokawa, would you care to explain why I had to wake up at 3am and get on a jump ship to arrive at an unlisted station deep in the Oort Cloud?”

“If you’ll follow me ma’am,” he turned to start walking ahead of her. “This station belongs to the Atlas Company. Recently they were contracted for work on the Gen 2 Pilot Programme. But after some of their reports started conflicting an investigation was ordered into their work and this facility was uncovered.” He stopped at a door. “The science team and the only remaining executive onboard are inside.”

She waved the door open and stepped through. Inside was a small conference room with a handful of armed troops, and the half dozen scientists plus one man in a very well tailored suit looking uncomfortably smug that they were watching. “Alright,” she sat down at the head of the table. “Tell me why I’m here.”

One of the scientists opened her mouth to speak but the suit cut him off. “I’ll handle this Doctor, the way to deal with these bureaucrats at the CA is by being straightforward.” He turned to her. “Now, young lady, my name is Howard Billings, I’m the one of the directors of this facility. You are I assume some secretary or administrator here to-“

“I’m going to stop you right there Mr Billings,” she cut him off. “I am in fact a Primary Councilmember of the Central Authority.”

A look of horror passed over his face and he opened his mouth presumably to stammer out an apology but she interrupted him again. “I don’t need to hear anything else you have to say Mr Billings, Commander?” Two of the troopers hauled the man out of his chair and dragged him out of the room. “Now,” she turned to the scientist. “What have you and your team stepped in Doctor?”

The woman swallowed nervously, before brushing her hand through her short, fuzzy hair. “We… we’re the team that was originally assigned to the Lazarus project for the HAK pilots that were-“

“Get to the point please Doctor, I would like to return to civilization at some point today.”

“Right! Sorry ma’am,” she apologized. “So after that project was canned because of the Citizenry Preservation Act. We had all these pilot bodies that we had full biological rights to but weren’t allowed to revive so the Atlas execs just… decided to…” she paused, staring at the councilwoman cautiously. “To copy them.”

She narrowed her eyes at the doctor. “You weren’t allowed to resurrect the pilots, so decided to clone them?”

“Y-yes,” the doctor stammered. “The idea was that since they’re already genetically perfect pilot candidates there wouldn’t be any need to sort through the medical trials for hundreds of new pilots. And the execs…” she swallowed again. “And the execs concluded that clones wouldn’t have the same citizenship rights as the originals. They would simply be… equipment.”

She stared at them shrewdly, calculating everything the doctor said before suddenly standing up and turning to leave.

“W-wait! What’s going to happen to all of us?”

She turned to look back at them. “Well obviously you’ll be continuing your work here,” she said. “The Authority will be sending out an oversight committee and Mr Billings will be… reassigned.” She stepped out of the room and the Commander fell into step behind her. “Color me surprised Commander Kurokawa, you haven’t wasted my morning. Now if you’ll excuse me I’ll be heading back to Centauri.”

The Corporation is distinctly opposed to calling pilots "angels". They've released several statements recommending that officers silence any such language, saying it "threatens the integrity of the forces", and that HAKs and the pilots who control them are "tools, not deities". But I mean, when you see the way a suit's holoprojectors form a pulsing ring around a pilot's helmet, or when one slumps forwards out of its cockpit to reveal that thick mass of wires creeping from its back, it's impossible not to see the resemblance. And when, like most of the men stationed here, you've found yourself pinned down by heavy artillery fire from two directions with no chance of survival, but out of the heavens a Bishop-class rig emerges and razes the enemy with what can only be described as holy flame? I mean hell, that's enough to make anyone a believer (pardon my language).

I have a buddy who deals with the HAKs directly. He works in biomechanics, combat simtech or whatever. I asked him once what he thought about the whole "angel" thing. He got real quiet, and he looked directly at me and said, "you don't even know the half of it." And I stared right into his eyes and I could see that same heavenly flame burning in there and I knew that he had seen something he couldn't quite understand, but that he loved with all his heart.

#mechposting #what’s a little mech scifi without some horrific human rights violations

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clonecest-bin-account · 5 years ago

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Ner vod

Relationship: Fox & Tailor (OC)

Rating: G

@transwomankyloren commissioned me to write something about Fox and his OC Tailor. Thank you so much for commissioning me, it was very fun to write!

AO3 link

“Life in the Guard isn't easy, but at least the vode can count on each other's support.”

Being a Corrie isn’t easy, despite what the vode may think, but even if you try to explain it to them, most of them won’t even listen. Fox knows, he’s tried it already; at least his batch takes him seriously, even though they can’t help but to sneak in a few jokes about it from time to time. Fox always tries to take them in good jest, but sometimes their words come back haunting him during the most difficult times.

What he would like, when it comes to this matter, is for Tailor to understand it too. This is already the fifth time in that month that he has to personally drag her out of 79’s because she was about to start a fight with some random vod whom she overheard talking shit about them.

“I wasn’t going to do anything!” she exclaims once they’re far enough to stop. “I just wanted them to understand!”

“I know you, you were going to make them understand with your fists,” Fox replies, taking none of her shit.

At least he doesn’t comment on the irony of this: she’s always the first one to scold the fools she has to patch up because of these bar scuffles, and now she almost got involved in one. He doesn’t say anything about this only because it would make her even more mad and that’s not what he wants at the moment - he’s storing this bit for the next time she’ll tell some poor shiny not to get involved in these things.

She might act all no-nonsense and stern around the shinies, but she still loves the Guard dearly, and she’d do anything to protect them, like each one of them does. After all, if not even your brothers are with you, what else can you do if not stick with each other? At least they are a pretty cohesive group.

His gaze softens and he puts a hand on her shoulder.

“Let’s head back, ner vod, shall we?”

She doesn’t say anything but she nods, following Fox back home. Well, it’s not exactly a home per se, but it’s the closest they have - and probably will ever have - to it, so might as well call it that. The truth is that she’s not talking about the buildings, no, she’s talking about the Guard, about the rest of her vode. They are her true home, but she refuses to say it out loud to them; she has a reputation to uphold after all, she can’t allow people to see her soft side.

Fox isn’t just a random somebody, however; she trusts him enough to let her façade crumble, even for a small amount of time.

It’s subtle at first, just a brush of their hands together, then Tailor goes to grab Fox’s, squeezing to the point that it hurts even with the gauntlets still on.

Despite this, Fox doesn’t point it out, doesn’t point out anything at all. What he does, instead, is to squeeze her hand as well.

“I’m here. I got you. I love you.” That’s what that gesture says. There’s no need for words, just silent companionship.

Once they’ll get back, they’ll probably have to go their separate ways, but it doesn’t matter for now. They have each other’s back and they will keep things that way.

Even if they might not have the support of the rest of their brothers’ at least they have their own. They can always count on that.

“Prison duty again, huh?” Foxtail mutters as she’s reviewing Fox’s schedule. She’s not supposed to have his datapad, but they were chilling inside Fox’s office during one of his rare moments of break and once she set her sights on it there was no stopping her.

Fox nods at her words, wordlessly, which to Tailor is most suspicious, because Fox hates guard duty and never wastes any chance to make it well known. The fact that he’s not saying anything means that he must’ve put himself there to escape from a bad situation - since nobody ever bothers with the clones stationed for prison duty - something that doesn’t happen much often to him, but it does for other officers that are a little less “polite” around the wrong people.

Knowing that she’ll have the drag the truth out of him, she asks:

“What happened?”

“Nothing happened,” Fox lies, and if Tailor hadn’t known him as well as she does, she would’ve missed the way his body tenses just for a moment, before Fox hops off the desk and begins pacing, a clear sign of nervousness. “I just had a… disagreement, with a Senator.”

“How big of a disagreement?” Tailor asks. That doesn’t bode well at all.

“… I might’ve insulted him.”

Tailor’s blood goes cold in her veins as she hears those words.

“What?”

“It’s not as bad as you think!” Fox immediately says. “He’s been complaining about the ‘excessive security’, his words not mine, because he was forced to be followed by an escort and eventually I told him that this is our job so we know better than him.”

This has to be the short version of the story, but at the moment this isn’t what worries Tailor more.

“I know what you’re about to say, I know I was wrong,” Fox continues, “I just--”

He’s shaking more and more as he goes on. Tailor needs to act now. She gets up from the chair she kindly stole from Fox since the moment she set foot in there and she approaches him; only once she’s sure she’s not going to make things worse by doing this she wraps her arms around him, pulling him into a hug.

“It’s going to be fine,” she says, trying to sound certain despite how much she too is afraid. “They’re not going to send you back to Kamino, alright?”

Fox nods, but he’s still unconvinced. This calls for a keldabe, which of course Tailor drags him into.

“The Guard would be lost without its Commander and you know it. They wouldn’t take away such a useful asset.”

What she just said is cold, very cold, but it’s also their unfortunate truth. Besides, Tailor knows this will get Fox more than any reassuring words, no matter how well-intentioned they might be. This time in fact he looks more convinced when he speaks.

“I know it’s just… Well… You know.”

“I do,” she says, unable to hold back her bitterness at that statement. It’s not easy to live with the knowledge that your life is disposable and that it takes very little for anyone to get sent back and get decommissioned. Still, they can’t let that fear overtake them.

At least now Fox’s smiling, although sheepishly.

“I’m sorry you had to see me like that, ner vod,” he says. Tailor rolls her eyes at him.

“Oh come on don’t go there now. How many times did I tell you it’s fine, you stupid di’kut?” she replies. By now Fox should know that he can count on her, but he’s still stubborn enough to always try to carry the entire weight of the Guard all on his shoulders, like Coruscant would fall if he so much decides to take a break.

It would be too easy if he just stopped with his workaholic tendencies, but it’s fine. Well, it’s not, but at least he can count on Tailor to keep him in check.

She’ll always make sure that he takes care of himself.

Sometimes Tailor can’t help but to wonder if her brothers who are deployed in the war and not stationed in Coruscant get the same treatment they get: are they always treated as heroes by the inhabitants of the worlds they save, or are they considered freaks by them too?

Not that she thought they were ever going to be considered heroes here on Coruscant - that’s just not how things work - but still people treat them as slaves. Well, that isn’t really that far from the truth now, isn’t it?

She shakes her head, deciding to go back to work instead of letting her traitorous mind wander into dangerous territories. What was she doing before getting lost in her own head? Ah, that’s right! She needed to compile requisition forms for more hypos.

One would think they’d get plenty of those since they’re medics, but that’s unfortunately not the case and…

She hears an explosion, then her comm begins to beep furiously.

Something must’ve happened, something very bad.

A bombing to the Senate is something they all know to expect - one of the training scenarios for the shinies is exactly this in fact - but to think that someone would bomb the Guard precinct is…

Why? Why would they do that to them, the people who live and die for this city? They’re already bleeding them dry, and now this?

Agh, there’s no time to get lost in her thoughts like this! She needs to check on the men!

The wall that has been bombed has crumbled, leaving some brothers under the rubble. Tailor anxiously waits for the relief efforts to begin retrieving them, ready to go immediately as soon as someone comes up. The key in these kinds of emergencies is quickness and fast reflexes: if it takes too long for her to act, she might lose the vod’s life she’s trying to save.

Even with the medics ready to operate however, not everyone survives. Some are even already dead at the retrieval, others die later.

This is the second vod that Tailor keeps close in her arms, trying to give them at least a bit of company before they eventually close their eyes and march on, and while she keeps asking herself why this has happened and what they are going to do now. There’s surely going to be an investigation, but she doubts it will produce any result: if it had been any other natborn building exploding, then people would have cared, but they are just clones, not enough to warrant a proper investigation.

The body in her hands has already gone cold when she hears a familiar voice barking orders to the rest of the troopers. Kark.

As she gets up to follow the voice, she can’t help but to be glad that he was under the rubble, but this doesn’t mean that he wasn’t involved in the explosion in any way.

When Tailor finally reaches Fox in fact, she can’t help but to curse the fact that she had to take care of the injured ones first. Even though he doesn’t look injured, the poor vod’s shaking, even though he stubbornly acts like he’s not. Nobody has had the courage to point it out, at least until Tailor got there.

She didn’t even wait for him to acknowledge her presence before grabbing him by the shoulders and dragging him away, knowing that there are other CCs that will take Fox’s place.

“Where are we going?” Fox asks. The fact that he’s not even trying to resist Tailor speaks volumes.

“Your office,” is the laconic response. There’s no need to say anything else.

Once in Fox’s office, Tailor begins to do a medical check-up just to be sure, but Fox pushes her away.

“I’m fine! I just got there…” he says, but he begins choking on his own words.

Tailor draws him immediately into a hug, holding him tightly. His shaking worsens, and Tailor can hear the sound of sniffles coming from him, but she doesn’t say anything.

She lets him cry all he wants, and maybe she cries a bit too, who knows - she’s not going to tell. The despair this job gives them pours out all at once, with Tailor and Fox unable to do anything about it if not trying to support each other at the best of their abilities. That’s how things work in the Guard.

Eventually they both stop, pulling away after what feels like an entire day, if not even more.

“Thank you, Foxtails,” Fox says, drying what remains of his tears with one hand. Foxtails, not Tailor.

She smiles.

“Anything for you, ner vod.”

At those words, even Fox manages a small smile as he replies to her.

“Anything for you too, ner vod.”

#commander fox #clone trooper tailor #clone ocs #transwomankyloren

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lilhawkeye3 · 4 years ago

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[insert bitchy retort here]

#the beard was just for Tailor #commander wolffe #hawk’s art #the clone wars #star wars #cc 3636 #temuera morrison #fanart #clone trooper art #ahahaha my traditional art is so much better than my digital stuff I’m gonna cry #sigh

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miseries-mistress · 2 years ago

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THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT | COMMANDER CODY

This fic is for the @cloneficgiftexchange , my story is too @chicknstripz based of the prompt "Do you think they saw us sneak off?"

Synopsis: Galas have never interested you. Dressing up, smothering makeup on, and entertaining people who attended for appearances alone is pitiful as well as painful, but an unexpected guest turns the dreadful night around.

Warnings: female reader, fluff, kissing, no spice, happy fucking ending bc he deserves one. W/C: 1225

Notes: i know you said fluff, but i had to add a pinch of sadness. i actually can't help myself! I hope you like it!

star wars masterlist

You'd rather be anywhere but here. No matter how the senators framed this gala, it was nothing but an excuse to garner support for the Republic and funds despite the invite plastering "charity" over the heading. Being an advisor to the Republic, you often attend such events in a dress worth more than most Corosants residents' paychecks. It's a requirement for someone working so in-depth with Jedi and clones alike, no matter how entitled you feel and far from the comfort of your uniform when you step into the building.

Soft classical music floats out the grand doors, and the troopers you pass by nod respectfully after noticing you from your many appearances through different battalions. You could easily be picked out among the rest, whether it was how uncomfortable you looked or the dress that didn't fit quite right, you didn't know. You offer them a smile before turning back to polite chatter barely above the melody. Maybe you would have enjoyed this more and soaked in these rare pleasantries if tomorrow's work hadn't hung over your head so dauntingly. Working with the 501st never bothered you. In fact, you got along well with Rex and his men, but pursuing any diplomacy with Anakin present is nothing short of exasperating, so much so that you find it hard to believe he holds the rank of a Jedi.

"Well, don't you look lonely?" the man behind you asks. An unmistakable husk to the teasing lilt in his voice prompts your head to jerk in surprise. You turn, caught in Cody's gaze, while the confidence slowly drains from his eyes the longer you hold it, finally noticing the front of your dress dripping down your curves. There's something inexplicable in his stare, the way it slowly slides down your body, an emotion you could only compare to ravenous enlarging his pupils.

"You look…" he trails off, his Adam's apple bobbing as his irises find their way back to yours in an attempt to formulate the words congealed in his throat. "Really nice."

He bites back a wince. That's not what he wanted to say.

Your chuckle does little to settle him, his mind rushing with possibilities of how you interpreted his complement as your hands run down his suit lapel, and he tries to straighten himself, maybe to seem presentable in front of you. Even after all the battles you've witnessed together, Cody still makes an effort to look like what he feels is a "real man." As if there was such a thing.

"And you cleaned up nicely." He did. He really did. Cody looked almost...regal in the tailored black suit, rippling with lean muscle accentuated by the hugging fabric. Heat rises to your cheeks the longer you stare, and you clear your throat, forcing yourself to concentrate on what you're saying. "Well, I didn't expect you to show up tonight, not that it's unwelcome."

You offer him a smile, understanding his flushed expression as thinly veiled embarrassment, removing your hands from his chest. A look of longing flashes across his honeyed irises before he clears his throat, his hand rubbing sheepishly at his nape.

"Yeah, well, I usually see you before you're sent elsewhere. Besides, certain clone commanders were invited to showcase ourselves to members of the Senate…something about seeing us in person." He huffs, clearly disgruntled. "Not that it matters. It won't change their opinions of us."

You nodded. You've been around your fair share of senators throughout your career. But, being one of many ambassadors in the military and traveling across star systems to quell conflict in the people, senators often discarded them. Tossing their opinions forged from many years of training aside from the preconception that comes with the name. Seeing the hatred clones face is one thing, but witnessing how deeply it affects them is another.

Cody avoids your regard, searching for anything else to latch onto besides the raw emotions crackling in the air.

"Hey." A finger taps against his prominent jawbone, drawing him away from his thoughts. "Not right now. Let's just make the most of this time."

You reach for his hand, lacing your fingers and giving the rough skin a squeeze, calluses digging into yours. Loud laughter slices through the air, and your attention shifts to the group of aristocrats loudly talking among themselves, glasses of alcohol swinging loosely in their hands. You wince, the environment you created fleeting from your grasp just as Cody leans in, his mouth a hairsbreadth away from your ear, and a raspy breath accompanied by a hum is enough to have you hanging off every single word. "Let's get out of here, yeah? Make the most of our time?"

You can only nod, the words caught in your throat as the familiar warmth ignites in your stomach, spreading throughout your limbs until you're giddy with the implications of what comes next.

Knowing the layout better than you, he leads you by hand down the hall, passing guards in a hazy blur, your head reeling at the point of contact. The mysteriousness, the longing, the desire to be closer than you could have ever imagined has your breaths coming in shallow pants, desperate for some reprieve from the shared ache between you two.

Finally, the door slides open, the night air kissing your cheeks with a chilliness you feel under your skin. The soft shut of the door behind you and his face in front of yours allows an unprompted giggle to slide past your lips, stealing a glimpse of the door before peeking back at him.

"Do you think they saw us sneak off?" His lips twitch into a ghost of a grin, stepping towards you. You feel like teenagers, too wrapped in the moment to consider the consequences and everything that could crush what you've constructed into thousands of pieces, absorbed in the thrill of secrecy to consider your lives outside this instance. Not Republic members fighting for a better tomorrow, just lovers.

"You worry too much for your own good." Cody slides a hand up your cheek, and you can feel the pulse in his fingertips, the quickness of his breath. He seems nervous, debating the action before pressing his lips to yours in a tender cling. It's cliché the way it steals your breath away as you melt into him, and the hands that shift from your cheeks to shoulders and then slide painstakingly down your back are filled with tender warmth. You feel aware of everything at once, the pressure of his mouth, the taste of your kiss, the ardor of his hand cascading down the knobs of your spine, and the texture of his slightly cracked lips.

He holds your mouth captive so he can feel every place where they touch and every place when they pull away. You can't help but savor the air you share in seconds afterwards as you slip your nose across his, the instant too intimate to be painted by words. Even your breaths sync together while you stand there.

Cody's fingers drift to your hips, pulling you flush to his chest in a swift movement. Gentle hands draw circles along your covered skin, pressing a kiss next to your ear. His voice is husker than usual, mysterious, and inviting.

"But I wouldn't have it any other way."

#commander cody x you #commander cody x reader #commander cody fanfiction #commander cody x female reader #commander cody #cody x reader #cody tcw #tcw commander cody #tcw cody #star wars tcw #tcw #x female reader #clone wars #starwars the clone wars #tcw fanfic #CFGE23

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hunnythebee · 2 years ago

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Late Nights at 79s

18+ MINORS DNI 18+

Chapter 1: Taboo

You are a new Jedi Knight living in the heart of Coruscant and discovering the joys of the night life and the pleasures of the men who work so closely with the Jedi.

Explicit - 4.2k words - first person - female reader

Chapter 2 | Masterlist | AO3

Tags: Echo x Reader, Fives x Reader, Jedi!Reader, Fem!Reader, AFAB!Reader, clubbing, the 501st, Coruscant, 79s, hidden identity, flirting, kissing, dancing

WARNINGS and fic below the cut

last call minors gtfo

Warnings and Explicit tags: Alcohol, Oral (female recieving), Bathroom sex, exhibitionism if you squint, PIV, unprotected, creampie, dubcon?, straight up blasphemous use of the force.

Being a Jedi Knight definitely had its perks. For starters, being allowed to live outside the walls of the Temple on Coruscant, giving me a sense of freedom I never even knew I craved. Secondly, I was able to have a life outside of the order. As a Padawan I had always heard clones discussing places on the lower levels with dancing and drinking, but never did I think that I would enjoy such things. How wrong I was. It didn’t take long till I came across one of these clubs, and shortly after that I became a regular patron. It was an extremely risky game I was playing, clubbing with clones. Any given night I could be recognized, but I didn’t care. If I’m being completely honest it added to the exhilaration of being in such places.

My first night was fairly tame. I hadn’t known how to dress or act in such a situation. I only danced to two songs and drank one drink. In the morning I realized how lucky I was to not have been recognized by any of the clones. Originally I made a vow to myself to never go back, but I couldn’t help myself. It was fun and I craved more. The next time I went I was smarter. I purchased a few skimpy outfits, mirroring the women I had seen in the club my first night, and a pair of heels. The smartest addition to my outfits was a lightweight hooded cowl with a mask. Covering my face and hair so only my eyes show.

That was a month ago, and I’ve gone at least twice a week every week since. Tonight I was going again, but this night was going to be quite different from others. I had already gone out to 79s twice this week, but on the second night I met a very flirty and forward ARC Trooper from the 501st. After he bought me a drink and we danced for a bit he invited me to come again tonight. He told me his brothers in blue were going to be there and I couldn’t pass on the chance to party with Skywalker’s boys. Since I knew that they were 501st, I decided a special outfit might be in order. I donned the white version of my signature cowl and a tight, short satin dress. It was a vibrant blue with two strips of fabric covering my breasts and tying behind my neck. My eyes were lined by a kohl liner and faux lashes. It made me feel more alluring as I peered up at the clones from behind my mask. I checked the time and discovered I was already running late, so I tucked my hair up into the hood and pulled up my mask. Ready to hail a speeder taxi to the lower levels.

When I arrived the music was steadily thumping inside and there was already a line wrapping around the block. I sighed, mentally cursing myself for taking so long. Just as I was about to make my way to the end of the line a masculine grabbed the crook of my elbow and spun me around. It was the clone who had invited me.

“There you are!” He greeted me with a mischievous crooked grin. He wasn’t wearing his half blacks, half armor that he had been wearing when I met him. No, tonight he was wearing a well tailored black button down and deliciously tight grey slacks. I eyed him up and down, thankful for the mask hiding the fact that I was biting my lip. He wouldn’t have caught it anyways, since he was too busy ogling me.

“Did you wear all this for me?” He asked smugly, a smirk plastered to his face.

“I might have,” I winked, “I think the 501st looks rather good on me, don’t you?”

“Baby…” he clutched his chest and stumbled back dramatically. “You gotta warn a man before you say something like that.” He earned the laughter he was after and returned to my side, snaking an arm around my waist and resting his hand on my hip. He was guiding me straight to the door, past the ever-growing line. He locked eyes with the bouncer and they gave each other a familiar nod as the velvet rope was lifted for us.

Inside it was loud and crowded and familiar. It was a really busy night, busier than what I was used to. All the tables were occupied and there was hardly any standing room at the bar. The clone by my side leaned in close to my ear, the scruff of his goatee brushing my skin ever so lightly.

“The boys and I already got a booth, what do you say we get you a drink?” His voice was so sultry and close to my ear that my skin erupted into chills and I lost my words for a moment. I gathered myself and cleared my throat.

“A drink would be great, thanks.” I nodded to him. We pushed our way up to the bar, where he got the attention of the bartender. Luckily, it was the one I usually saw when I came so I didn’t even have to order. They turned around, handed me my usual order and went back to serving the other patrons. My host was amazed by the interaction.

“That was impressive. You some kind of Jedi? Send him your order via the Force or some kriff?” He laughed at his own joke as I froze. My eyes widened in shock for a second before processing that he wasn’t being serious. I let out a half hearted laugh, which was not enough for him to drop it.

“You okay?” His face showed genuine concern as he searched my eyes. My heart was racing still, but I managed to compose myself.

“Yeah… just nervous about meeting your brothers,” I lied, brushing off my shock as nerves.

He cupped my clothed cheek with his hand, and I could feel the warmth transfer through the thin material. “There’s nothing to be worried about mesh’la. I’m not sure what you’ve heard, but I promise we aren’t that bad.”

I nodded, still feeling a twinge of fear in my gut. Something in the way the Force was ebbing around me tonight told me that change was coming and I feared that it meant that my little charade was about to be discovered. I had been so lost in my thoughts that I hadn’t caught that he was talking to me again, not until his lips were against my ear again.

“The name’s Fives, by the way,” never had an introduction sounded so seductive, “I don’t think I ever caught your name.”

I swallowed hard. In all the times I had been here I had been able to avoid giving my name. I didn’t even have a fake one on hand. I hesitated for a long moment before having a stroke of genius.

“You…” I placed an open palm to his chest, resting on the slightly exposed skin, “Can call me Fours.”

He smirked and squinted at me quizically, “Why ‘Fours’?”

I leaned in close to ear and pulled my mask down so my lips could brush his ear for a change, “Because, Fours comes before Fives.”

He shivered at my words and gripped my hips hard as I pulled my mask back up. Fives pulled me in tight against him and rested his forehead to mine. The biggest grin spread across his face. “We are going to have the best karking night.”

After our little introduction, he led me by the hand to one of the booths lining the walls. It was packed tight with clones in various states of dress. Two were sporting the standard half blacks, half armor of most off-duty clones, and were engaged in an intense arm wrestling match. One was dressed in a muscle tank with a leather jacket draped over the back of the booth near him, nursing his drink and lazily watching the events of the match unfold. The last one was dressed similarly to Fives, but his shirt matched the color of my dress. He had been watching for us. Fives presented me to the table while they all looked up from what they were doing.

“This is Fours, boys. I told you I was bringing a beauty tonight.” He announced proudly, causing my cheeks to flush. Once again I felt very thankful for the mask. The clone in blue stood to welcome me. He took my hand in his and kissed the back of it, and as he did I noted his hair was a light shade of blonde.

“Captain Rex, at your service. But you can just call me Rex.” He flashed me the sweetest smile and my heart skipped a beat. I had known I was drinking with clones of the 501st, but it was now occurring to me that I was partying with the 501st. I should have realized it when Fives told me his name but it didn’t register till now. He was busy introducing everyone else at the table but I was too wrapped up in my own astonishment to listen. I didn’t need to. This was Captain Rex, Arc-Trooper Fives, Echo, Jesse, and their medic Kix. Their identifiers were unmistakable now that I was really looking at them. I had heard of these men in multiple briefings, but never had I seen them in person. Maybe I could be a little more relaxed with my mask tonight, since I don’t risk them knowing me.

“It’s an honor to be drinking with you all tonight,” I offered as thanks for the invite.

“Trust me, the honor is all ours tonight,” smirked Jesse. They all shifted, allowing for me to have space to sit down with them. I sat sandwiched between Fives and Jesse. Jesse’s cologne filled my senses and I desperately wanted to bury my face in his shirt and breathe deeply, but I exercised restraint. Echo and Kix went back to their arm wrestle and I sat swirling my drink in my hand, contemplating how far I was willing to let my guard down. I hadn’t noticed that Jesse had stretched his arm out behind me and was leaning in closer.

“That cowl looks hot and uncomfortable, you got a reason for wearing it?” He was pressing into me and my mind was going blank.

“R–religion. Can only take it off around trusted ones.” Which was mostly true.

“You don’t trust us?” He pouted jokingly.

Without a second thought I responded, “Of course I trust you guys, it's… others I don’t trust.” I gestured toward the jumping crowd of people.

“We can fix that, can’t we Captain?” Jesse nodded to Rex, who seemed to instinctively understand. He manipulated a button on a panel I had never noticed before and an opaque red curtain fell over the entrance to the booth alcove.

Fives spoke next, “Now you can get as comfortable as you want babe.”

I chewed my cheek for a moment as I contemplated it.

Kriff it. I pulled the mask down and the hood. All eyes were on me as my hair fell loose and free and my face was revealed in full. Most were looking on in pure feral attraction, but one was fixed a little too intensely on my features. I could feel Echo eyeing me carefully, a question burning in his mind. I decided to pry.

“Something the matter?” I asked, turning to him and locking eyes with him.

“N-no. Nothing’s wrong.” He stammered.

“C’mon, you can tell me,” I pushed.

He licked his lower lip and leaned closer to me. “Why are you using the name Fours? We all know that isn’t your real name.”

My heart sank. Kriff. How could he recognize me? I opted to try the same trick on him that I had tried on Fives.

“Fours comes before Fives.” I throw him a wink and he stiffened while the whole table erupted in laughter.

“Leave it to Fives to find one that is even sassier than he is.” Kix joked as he took a shot. Fives narrowed his eyes at his brother while Kix just smiled into his drink. I reached out in the Force, sensing an unease. It was Echo. He wasn’t satisfied with my answer and I needed to know why. But for now I was going to enjoy my time with the boys in blue. I took a long sip of my spotchka, appreciating the warmth spreading through my extremities as I did so.

The night continued on with multitudes of topics of conversation, mostly trying to find out more about me. However I was expertly dodging every question and offering my own in return. I got them sharing war stories and barracks gossip and that was the end of their line of questioning.

“...and then I said I’ve never been with a Rodian before but I’ll try anything once!” Jesse finished his story and the table laughed.

“There is no way you fucked a Rodian,” I challenged him.

“I have proof if you don’t believ–” he moved to pull out his datapad and the whole table shouted “NO!”

“Alright alright, I believe you! I do NOT want to see that though.” I shuddered.

“Don’t have the stomach for the suction cups?” Joked Kix. I shook my head ‘no’ in response and laughed.

“What is the craziest thing you’ve done in bed, Fours?” Asked Rex. My face turned bright pink, and I no longer was hidden by my cowl. It wasn’t that I hadn’t done anything before, but there was no way I could tell the story without revealing what I am.

“Uhhh…” My brain was stalling out, I had nothing. All eyes were on me, and then Echo came to my rescue. He had just returned from the bar with another round and saw the look on my face. Echp placed the tray down and offered a hand to me.

“Apologies for the rudeness of my brothers. No one’s even offered to dance with you tonight.” He was looking at me with such intent. I knew I needed to accept his offer.

“You are absolutely right Echo!” I pulled my hood and mask back on as I stood and took Echo’s hand, making sure to walk a little extra seductively as the other clones looked on. We entered the dancefloor as another song was playing. I linked my arms around the back of Echo’s neck and pressed my hips against his as I started to move and grind. Instinctively, he placed his hands on my hips and began grinding with me. For the first time that night, he was relaxed with me. It didn’t last though, I pulled back a little to look into his golden eyes and his face dropped into a look of abject horror. He released my hips like I was hot metal and abandoned me on the dancefloor. I was dumbfounded and a little offended. I decided to pursue him through the crowd. He was hurrying along to the restrooms, but I managed to catch up as he went in and bolted the door behind me. I turned around to confront him but he was already on me. He pinned me to the door I had just locked and pulled my mask down. In the harsh light of the bathroom there was no hiding any feature of my face.

“Commander...” Was all he said, and it felt as if the floor fell out from beneath me. He pushed off me with a grunt and began pacing the length of the restroom and anxiously running his hands through his hair I could feel the mixture of emotions coming off of him. I needed to put his mind at ease.

“E–Echo… I swear it’s not what you think.” I attempted to reassure him but he turned to face me with a wild look in his eye.

“It isn’t? So you aren’t in disguise? In a nightclub? Seducing clones?” His words were harsh, but true.

“I’ll have you know I haven’t hooked up with a single clone!” I attempted to defend myself. He was breathing so hard, I could see his chest rising and falling even from this distance. I decided to throw caution to the wind since I was already screwed. “How did you know who I was?”

“General Shaak Ti has a picture in her quarters back in Tipoca City. Fives and I used to end up there a alot… You’re in the photo.”

“Do the others know?” I asked, feeling my stomach twist.

“No. It’s not my place to tell them,” he stated plainly. I felt a surge of comfort. The last thing this clone wanted to do is rat me out.

“Is… is it your place to tell the council?”

“What?! No! I would never.” He responded, sounding almost offended.

I took a deep breath, feeling my nerves ease exponentially. He wasn’t going to turn me in, thank the maker. But then that begged the question, why was he still looking like he’s about to pass out?

“Echo?” I asked cautiously.

“Yes?” He asked, sounding as dissheveled as he looked.

I hesitated for a moment, debating if I wanted the answer to this question or not. “Why are you so concerned about my being a Jedi if you aren’t going to turn me in?”

He gripped the bathroom counter so hard his knuckles turned white. My heart was racing waiting for his answer. I was staring at him, my bottom lip between my teeth. He looked back at me and answered finally, “Because… you’re a Jedi.”

“And?” The question came out more flirtatious than I intended.

He took a shaky breath and a step toward me, “And… I’m a clone…”

The entire situation came to light, my body moved without permission. Closing the distance further. “And?” My words were breathy and low.

“It’s…” The distance closed between us and he brushed a hand along my bare arm. I shivered and keened into his touch. “It’s…” he said once more, his eyes fixed hungrily on me.

“It’s?” I teased, lacing my fingers into his hair.

“Forbidden.” He finally managed. The word lit a fire inside me. Like the reminder of how wrong all of this was made me want it more. I pressed closer to him and his hands found my hips. Our lips were close but still just barely touching, and I wanted so desperately to close the distance.

I whispered into his mouth, “Only if we get caught.”

A groan came from his throat and that was all the push he needed. His mouth was hot against mine. His kisses were more delicious than I could have imagined. It was sweet, despite the alcohol, and laced with a neediness that I felt down to my core. His hands moved down my legs and he lifted me so my legs wrapped around his waist. He carried me to the very bathroom counter he had been clinging to moments before, his mouth never leaving mine. He set me down on the counter and his lips left mine for a moment too long. I pulled at the fistful of hair I had in hand and exposed his neck. My mouth moved expertly along his thick, muscular neck. I bit into a soft spot right under his jaw and he moaned. His hips attempted to grind into me, but he was still wearing his cod piece. I moved to remove it, but he caught my wrists before I could finish my task. His eyes were fixed on mine, and he looked feral and seductive this way.

“I want to taste you first.” Before I could finish nodding yes to his statement, he was already sinking to his knees. My dress had ridden up my legs when he had carried me so all that he had to do to reach my wetness was remove my panties. He carefully pulled them down my legs and off. He pocketed them with a smirk and spread my legs wider to get a better look at the arousal dripping from my pussy. He licked his lips at the sight and licked through the folds, swirling and sucking at the swelling bundle of nerves. I tipped my head back and moaned his name. This spurred him on further, beginning to eat my pussy like I was the most delicious meal he had ever tasted. I was already coming undone from his mouth when he added a finger. He tenderly sunk the digit into my opening and curled it against my favorite spot. I spasmed under his touch and he smiled against my pussy as he began to pump his finger in and out.

“F–fuck…Echo…ahh… more. Want more.” I begged between gasps. I wanted him to fill me, stretch me out. He obliged my pleading, sinking another finger into my wetness. The sounds pouring from my mouth were obscene. A series of curses and moans as I grinded against his tongue.

“D-don’t stop… gonna cum…make me cum…” my moans and pleas were echoing throughout the restroom. He added one more finger and I felt the stretch I desperately wanted. I lost all control of my body as he brought me closer and closer.

“I’m cumming. Fuck! I’m cum-cumming…” I screamed as the sensation surged through my veins. He pushed me over that edge and worked me through it. Once the clenching throb of my pussy walls subsided he pulled his fingers from me and licked them clean. He stood and pressed another searing kiss to my lips, but now he tasted of me. I broke away slightly.

“Fuck me,” I whispered against his mouth. I was still riding the high of my orgasm, but I needed him inside me. He didn’t say a word. Instead he began removing his codpiece, letting it clatter to the floor once it was detached. He pulled out his throbbing cock and fisted it a few times.

“Turn around,” he commanded, “I want you to watch yourself get fucked by me.” His words made me even wetter. I hopped off the counter, legs still fairly weak, and turned around to face the mirror. He pressed me down against the counter so my ass was on full display. Echo kneaded the round flesh as he dragged his tip through my wetness. Then he was pushing in, slowly, splitting me open on his cock. I did as he asked and watched the mirror as he sank into my pussy. My eyes looked fucked out and my hair was in a disarray but I couldn’t care less. He buried himself inside me completely, and sat there for a moment. Once I had adjusted to the feeling he began to move. He was being painfully slow and cautious with me.

“That the best you got, trooper?” I teased, using his title to remind him of the taboo act we were committing. I felt his dick pulse inside me and I knew I had gotten the desired effect. He grabbed a fistful of my hair and leaned over me so he could look in my eyes through the mirror.

“I was going to take it easy on you, Commander. But if you want to be fucked like the dirty slut you are…” He pulled his hips back and slammed them into me with immense force, using his hold on my hair to keep me in place. “Then who am I to say no?”

Echo’s pace picked up, and he continued fucking into me with no mercy. I was certain that my pussy would be bruised in the morning, and maker help me, that’s exactly what I wanted. We were not quiet. Moaning loudly, his hips slapping against my ass. I shut my eyes for a moment and he grabbed my face to make me look back into the mirror.

“You’re such a pretty little Jedi slut. Watch as I fuck you so hard you won’t be able to remember your own name.” He commanded.

“Yes, sir.” I moaned.

“Fuck… I’m gonna cum…”

A devious thought creeped into my mind and I couldn’t help myself, “Cum inside me, fill me up Echo.”

“I–I shouldn’t. T–too wrong. T–taboo.” He was deliriously close.

“Then fuck me right up to your orgasm, please Echo…” I begged innocently.

He didn’t respond, he just kept fucking into my pussy. Chasing his orgasm. I knew he wanted to cum inside me, he just didn’t want to admit it. I reached out with the force, as he got closer I readied myself. Then it came, his hips began to stutter and he moved to pull out. I pushed him back into me with the force and he screamed out my actual name as he climaxed. He collapsed over my body, gasping for air.

“Did you do that?” He asked once his senses began to come back to him. He pulled his softening cock from my leaking hole and I turned to face him. I smiled sweetly.

“Are you mad?” I asked, nuzzling against his nose.

He groaned, “Not even slightly. Just shocked you would use the force in such a… perverted way.” He helped adjust my dress, but refused to give back my panties. “Think of it as my proof that I fucked a Jedi.” He smirked and pressed one last sweet kiss to my lips. Before leaving the bathroom ahead of me. Instead of immediately returning to the booth, I opted to get a quick shot at the bar. My head was spinning from the encounter with Echo and I felt like it was evident on my face. I needed something to counteract that.

Chapter 2 | Masterlist | AO3

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rexxdjarin · 3 years ago

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Captain’s Log: Chapter 12

Demoralize

Series Summary: The galaxy is in turmoil. The Republic has fallen, giving rise to the sinister reign of the totalitarian Empire, led by the insidious Emperor Palpatine. The millions of valiant clone troopers of the former Grand Army of the Republic are now blindly sworn, against their will, to protect a regime they once sought to destroy. After being saved from a terrible fate by his former-Jedi ally and close friend, Ahsoka Tano, seasoned veteran CT-7567 Clone Captain Rex remains loyal to the pillars of Democracy, freedom and truth that shaped the former Galactic Republic. We follow him now struggling to deal with the personal aftereffects of survival and finding his place in the galaxy alongside the only person he has left. You. The love of his life.

[previous] [next] part of Captain's Log series post on ao3

Pairing: Captain Rex x Fem!Reader (she/her pronouns used) Word Count: 9.8k Series Rating: Explicit (18+ only, Minors DO NOT INTERACT) Chapter Summary: Everything is revealed when the stakes are highest. Our crew at long last realizes that deciding how to counter an unspeakable evil determines who they are in a galaxy where inaction is often easier than being a hero. Chapter Warnings: 18+ as usual but SFW, No Smut this time, Mature Themes, Language, Political References, References to Canon Plot, References to Canon Deaths, Angst, Anguish, Political Infighting, References to genocide

Beep. Beep. Beep.

The low steady siren rang as it alerted us to our drop out of hyperspace. Senator Organa’s private cruiser was far too luxurious to be suspected by anyone of holding three renegade clones and an exiled Coruscanti senator’s aide on board.

You’ve now arrived in the Atrivis Sector.

Bail’s remote navigator announced over the ship’s comm’s. Rex shifted under my head, the soft plush of his unarmored chest an unfamiliar yet not unwelcome feeling. We’d all changed into clean and unassuming clothes for the trip. The less we raised suspicion the better. They cleaned up so nicely. Such stoic and handsome men looked too good for civilian rags.

Gregor stuck to his usual yellow, a favorite of his. He chose a leather quilted jacket and deep brown cargos with rugged boots which he’d carefully propped up on the end of the table. Wolffe, to no one’s surprise, opted for a gray bomber over all an black top and bottom. Since they were to stay behind on our ship, being stowed away in a small cargo hold hidden on board the massive luxury liner, they didn’t need anything formal.

Rex and I, on the other hand, were decked out in the nicest options Bail and Breha had to offer. Rex fitted himself in a navy blue sport coat and dark tailored pants that fit him like a glove. He was lucky enough to find something that looked like it was made for him. He looked incredibly dashing, there was no denying that. Though, he was anything but comfortable. I could tell he felt exposed. Not only was his actual clone face way too visible, so was his signature blonde hair. He’d definitely put up more of a fuss than I was expecting.

I managed to find a glittering blue dress that matched Rex, the color coordination not going unnoticed. That was, of course, intentional. He had to look like a date to a high class event, which the secret meeting was headlined as, in order to subdue any suspicions from the Empire. The delicate straps glazed over my shoulders and the fabric was busy enough to distract from the growing bump just starting to appear underneath my clothes.

Needless to say Rex’s eyes popped out of his head when I exited the fitting room where Breha herself made the alterations to the gown. The other boys hadn’t been able to stop staring as we all sat in the ship's passenger lounge awaiting arrival.

“You sure you won’t be cold in this, mesh’la?” Rex finally spoke, his bare knuckle grazing down the curve of my shoulder. “You can have my coat whenever you need.” He muttered, his tired gaze taking a quick peek down the top of my dress.

I sighed, looking up at him and readjusting my position to cuddle into him tighter. “I’ll be fine. Don’t worry so much.” My hand traced the exceedingly tempting line of muscle on his chest under the fabric of his undershirt. “You look…so unbelievably handsome, Captain. If I wasn’t already months along, I’d be worried…” I chuckled.

His lips quirked into an amused half grin. “Me? Don’t think I’m the one everyone’s going to have their eyes on tonight, my beloved.”

I blushed and bumped his shoulder with my own. “Mmm, maybe that’s for the best. If they focus more on me, they might not immediately notice you. Even if I think you look so good that they should.”

“Yeah..yeah..would feel a lot more comfortable if they at least let me carry my helmet or something. What am I supposed to do with my hands?” He chuckled, lifting one up to stare at it like he didn’t recognize it without the black glove to cover it.

“You can start by holding my hand.” I slipped my fingers between his, the weight of his palm dropping our joined hands between our laps. “I’ll have to lead you through the crowd like my date once you put on this ridiculous thing.” I laughed, tipping my chin toward a far too formal hat sitting on the table in front of us.

Rex groaned loudly, “Ugh don’t remind me. Thing’s hideous.” He leaned forward, picking the hat up in his hand and looking it over like it was the most foreign object he’d ever seen. “Will never understand civvie clothes. How does anyone pay attention to the things that come out of your mouth while you’re wearing this?”

“Sometimes it’s that you don’t want them to pay attention to what you’re saying. At least as far as the Senate used to go, sometimes…” I sighed remembering the first time I took a look at Padmé’s expansive wardrobe. It seemed unfathomable to a girl like me who had little more than the clothes on her back. “Sometimes it’s about putting on such a performance that they don’t notice what’s going on behind the scenes.”

“Hmmm…I suppose that makes sense. A fake out if you will.” He thought aloud, his dark eyes searching the inner workings of the ship above our heads like he was constructing a map of it himself. “That seemed to be his plan all along.” He muttered, sighing and looking down at our joined hands. “Some of them might say…that’s what I- we- were doing too, you know?”

“I know.” I replied solemnly, “but you are the proof it wasn’t. You wouldn’t be bold enough to come before all of them unless it was to tell the truth.” I shifted, pulling my arms up to clutch my shoulders as if to stave off chills creeping along my exposed skin. “If I believe you, if Bail believes you, why shouldn’t they?”

Rex closed his eyes and reopened them, nervously glancing at both his brothers snoozing with their heads resting on each other’s shoulders. “For their sake…I hope they do.” His fingertips ghosted along my collar bone as he pulled me into his side. “Have you planned what you’re going to say?” He asked, the far away haze in his brown eyes hinting at just how much his mind had raced through his own hasty explanation of his survival.

“Well, I figured I’d start with some kind of acknowledgement that a rebellion like this is what Padmé had always been a fierce supporter of. And that it’s in her honor that I stand before them today as a survivor of a purge designed to destroy the independent thinkers and freedom fighters of our galaxy. The clones included.” I swallowed thickly, knowing that discussing the involuntary aspect of the clones’ hand in what happened was probably going to be a tough sell at the start.

“You’re definitely going to need me to chime in on that. Talk about the chips, show ‘em my scar. We’ve got more than enough holo scans and proof that the chips had some hand in how things went down. The removal part is where I’m getting stumped…” He drifted off, addressing the obvious bantha in the room.

Ahsoka.

“Ahsoka?” I asked him gently, the continued radio silence from his closest friend worrying him more than he’d ever let on.

“Mhm.” He responded solemnly, “I don’t know how we explain it. I did tell Fox that Maul killed her. I’m sure I could work that into a believable explanation. Say I buried her with my brothers that day. Sometimes in a way it feels like I did.” His eyes were welling up with tears and I took a deep breath to hold back my own. I cupped his cheek in my palm and wiped them away before they had the chance to fall.

“Oh Rex,” I cooed, allowing him the space to be vulnerable and breathe while bolstering the strength he needed to get through tonight. “She’s alright. I know it. She’s probably doing exactly what we are right now, trying to help out in what little ways she can.”

“Yeah, yeah…you’re right, I know. I’m okay. It’s just going to feel weird giving a briefing without a jedi beside me. Doesn’t feel right. They were always better with the words and convincing stuff than we clones. Leading a fight isn’t the same without her.”

“Well, Rex, maybe that’s the next mission. Looking for Ahsoka. We do whatever we can for your brothers, then us…and our son…we go find her. She’s going to want to meet her little nephew.”

He grinned, the existential dread that crept in on him from time to time faded back into obscurity as the smile grew on his face. “You’re sure it’s a boy huh.”

I rested my hand on my belly and his followed, lacing his fingers into the spaces between mine. “I know it is. Like everyday I know him a little more. Everyday he’s more and more restless. He’s got all his Daddy’s fight in him, that’s for sure.”

Rex beamed, his cheeks flushing as he let the praise soak in. “Does it feel…weird? Like, do you feel him in there? I…grew in a test tube. This is all foreign to me.”

I laughed out loud, both Gregor and Wolffe perking up immediately at the sound. “He hasn’t kicked or anything…yet. But it’s like I can feel his feelings…his presence, it’s like he’s already right in front of me. I’ve never felt anything like it.”

“So he’s dramatic and intense…wonder where he gets that from.” Rex teased, nuzzling into my neck and kissing so delicately it sent shivers down my spine. He pulled back to meet my playful little pout and chuckled, “See what I mean?”

Wolffe let out a deep sigh of mild annoyance as he stretched to shake the sleepiness off. Gregor turned back over to tuck in for at least five more minutes of sleep. I wondered just how much they’d ever been taught about little ones or how to prepare for them. They probably wouldn’t be getting much sleep in just a few months' time. Especially if he does turn out to be what I am starting to suspect he is.

“I think we should start coming up with names, Rex. Maybe it’ll help us pass the time until we land.” I offered, realizing my own apprehension for the upcoming meeting.

“Don’t need to think too hard. I’ve already got one I like, mesh’la.” He reached over and pulled me into his lap, letting my head rest on his shoulder. “Wanna hear it?” I looped my arms around his neck and cuddled into him tighter, careful not to destroy all I’d done to dress myself up for later.

“Yes, of course I do. Tell me what you’re thinking, baby.”

His bicep curled around my back to support me and he slid one of the straps that had fallen off my shoulder back into place. “I’ve thought about this one a lot. I…I wanted to make sure it wasn’t a name any of my brothers had. At least not in the 501st. And I tested it out so it sounds good with our names. Your last name too…since I don’t really have one.”

“Rex…you’re rambling again…” I scolded playfully, giggling at how serious he was taking all of this. He really was an overachiever at everything. No surprise that he’d want to excel at fatherhood too.

“Uh..right. Mesh’la…my love, what do you think about Kai?”

Kai.

Instantly, I felt the tiniest thump in my belly. Barely a slight tickle or a flutter. A very early little kick that was just present enough to be noticed and meaningful.

I gasped, sitting up and grabbing Rex’s hand to rest in the same spot I’d felt it before.

“What?” He asked with way too much concern in his sweet, deep voice.

“Say it again…the name…” I exclaimed, Gregor and Wolffe now sitting up and making their way over to check things out.

“Kai.” Rex said, the pride radiating off him in waves now.

The feeling came again, this time a bit more enthusiastic than before.

Rex turned to me immediately, the excited twinkle in his eye lighting up his whole face. He turned to his brothers, as giddy as a bright eyed cadet and kissed my forehead. “He kicked.” He explained to his puzzled brothers, now squatting on the ship floor in front of us.

“Really? You can feel that? It’s sorta early, no?” Wolffe wondered aloud, his hand hovering above ours and looking at me with hesitation before I nodded my approval. He and Gregor both let their palms spread over the same spot Rex and I felt before.

“Not for him. He’s special…our little Kai.” I said, resting my forehead on Rex’s, the subtle kicks coming again in response to the name he clearly liked. Gregor and Wolffe’s gleefully surprised expressions matched their brother’s as they felt it now too.

Rex kept his eyes on me, a haze of relief now flooding over him. “Guess he likes it, huh?” He chuckled. I nodded, tipping my chin up to kiss Rex softly and repeating the name under my breath until it felt fully etched into my heart.

“Yeah. Yeah, I think he does. Nice to meet you, Kai.” Gregor whispered, trying his best to rein in his excitable nature during such a tender moment.

Wolffe looked between the group of us, the faintest hint of a smile on his usually stern, serious face. “Welcome to the crew, little bug.”

–

Fest feels like one giant endless mountain. The entire landscape was snow capped peaks with ancient ornate temples carefully constructed around the craggy rock faces. Quick research on my datapad stated that many of these were once monasteries and meditation centers for jedi of a bygone era. They now served as little more than monuments and attractions for wayfaring tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the inner rim.

Our ship circled into a modest spaceport at the center of an old, quaint city settled in a valley of hills between the planet’s snowy peaks. Though the place looked old, the people who greeted us were anything but. There was Bail, looking sophisticated and expensive like usual. The other people at the admittance gate to the next transport looked even more ornate and opulent than Bail did. It was like every person on this planet had moved here specifically to fit into a culture of glamor and vacationing. As if there wasn’t galaxy wide terror going on outside of here.

It was a strange place to have a meeting about rebellion efforts. Though, maybe not an obvious one, which was probably why it was chosen. It could all be explained as a simple retreat for hardworking planetary leaders. The Empire could dismiss any suspicions if it just seemed like they were all headed to a known getaway planet for a few rotations.

There was also a lack of any security forces around, which felt more off-putting than it did safe. At least to Rex and I, who clearly knew better than to trust any planet that arrogantly thinks it doesn’t need to protect itself from anything. The entire transport ride to the conference center and spa in the high hills was spent crowding into each other due to lack of trust of any of the people around us.

The “conference” was being held at the Fest Oasis Spa & Retreat, an exorbitant grand temple converted into a hotel meant for only the wealthiest of the galaxy. The sprawling stone building was clearly well kept and equipped with tall towers and balconies to overlook both the ancient city below and the towering mountains above. The most awe-inducing sight of all was the meadow of bright, bursting orange flowers dotting the entire hillside where the old building was set and one gigantic, spiraling tree that must’ve been growing there for millenia.

It was not entirely dissimilar from the one that was supposedly at the old Jedi temple that now sat decimated and in cinders back home on Coruscant. That meant that this place was likely once used by Jedi. Although the Empire had already done plenty to try to wipe them from recorded history all over the galaxy, there were some places where the evidence of them would always be present if you knew what to look for.

In the late afternoon sun, the large stone patio entryway was bathed in golden amber light that mimicked the rich color of the flowers in the meadow it overlooked. The Senators and leaders were all invited to attend a large banquet at an elegant dining hall that Rex and I wanted absolutely no part of. We were probably not invited anyway.

Instead, we opted to take a walk around the grounds. Might as well make it look like a date even though we were in for one of the most important meetings of our lives in just a few hours. We stopped by a toppled ruin of what was once a tall stone tower and laid down beside each other in our fancy clothes.

The soft green grass swayed in the warm breeze. Sunshine bled through every blade, washing over us in waves. Around us on all sides was the beautiful meadow, with the mountains off in the distance and the lone tree offering us the promise of shade if we wanted it. He breathed softly under my cheek, his chest a more grounding comfort than the earth beneath my back. His hand slowly dragged up my spine just over the dress, making cold chills raise goosebumps on my warm skin.

I was too preoccupied with the view and the dreamy peace it provided to notice that he was staring at me. My eyes sparkling as I took in the landscape around me, my face lighting up in a soft, satisfying smile every time the breeze lifted my done-up hair just so, my heart beating faster with each touch of his fingertips along my back. This place could be my peace, my dream and my safety. But his peace, his dream, his safety was with me.

I could feel that now, though I had always known. He had told me more times than I could count. Slowly, I pulled myself up to rest on top of him. My head leaned on my crossed arms on his chest and blinked up at him in a daze, hoping he could read the intense swell of emotion I felt for him just in the bat of my lashes. His hand smoothed through my hair, staring into my eyes as I watched a smile spread across his face.

We didn’t have to talk. He didn’t speak. I didn’t either. We just looked at each other, comfortable in this brief moment of rest that by some miracle we’d been afforded. The adoration and devotion between us both was as prevalent and as sure as the sun shining on my open back. I was almost positive I could hear the grass itself singing to me and the wind whispering his name through the rustling branches of the only tree around.

He tilted his head at me, remarking all the ways my face showed beauty he swore could have only been made for him. He leaned down to brush the pad of his thumb along my blushing cheek and smiled. “Come here. Can’t wait any longer to kiss you.” He rasped.

I slid up to rest my forehead on his, “you never have to ask.” I whispered , letting our lips brush with each word I formed. I held his face in my hands and kissed him slowly, allowing us to lose ourselves in this dream place where nothing else existed but he and I. Just for now, in this moment it was us. Me and Rex, our future growing rapidly inside me. The rest of our family at home waiting for our return. Hopefully, it would always be this way. Somehow.

We watched the sun sink down over the mountain peaks on the other side of the valley and cuddled each other closer as the bitter chill of the evening breeze swept through the tall grass. As the hours ticked by, we sat in silence, mentally and emotionally preparing ourselves to lay it all on the line. The future of Rex’s brothers all hinged on the decision the rebellion made tonight.

Rex would fight to free them, with or without anyone else’s help if he had to. But it would certainly help things to have the underground resources available to back us up.

The commlink on Rex’s wrist lit up, signaling that they were ready for the actual purpose of this meeting to begin. He tapped the button to respond his receipt of the request and then sighed deeply.

“You ready?” I whispered, sitting up and brushing the wrinkles off the fabric of my dress.

“As I’ll ever be…” He remarked, standing up and offering his hand to guide me with him. “Senator Organa said the meeting is in the far monastery building at the base of the mountain. They’re taking the interior hallway entrance from inside. We’ll enter through the tunnels. He left us with a way to escape, if we need it. Guess he knows I always like to have an exit plan.”

I chuckled, resting my head on his bicep as we traveled toward the meeting point. “Yeah, imagine where he might’ve learned that.”

Rex hummed his understanding and looked down at the bag carrying his helmet rustling between us. “Why did you need me to bring this, again?”

“For effect. To make them visually understand what you’ve been through. Helps it really hit home for them. Lot of these people haven’t seen the war from a clone's perspective. We have to try to change that.” I kicked a few tiny pebbles down the trodden dirt pathway, the stone rimmed opening to a passageway inside appearing in view.

“Hmm couple that with my report…all our evidence. They’ll see. You’ve got the puck with Rampart’s recording too, right?” Rex asked, a scowl beginning to form as he remembered what that message contained.

I reached into the bag and turned the small holodisc in my hand a few times, nodding in confirmation. “I’m sure all of these leaders have come into contact with Imperial officers like Rampart or Tarkin often. It’s not like they’ll think of them favorably or anything. Guys like them have destroyed the way of life on many of their planets. Even before the war ended.”

“Do we know who’s going to be there?” Rex asked tentatively, like he was looking for a certain response to the question.

“No…but if you’re asking if the rebellion includes former separatists…I think the answer is probably yes. From what I’ve been reading on the holonet, your buddy Saw has been a bit of a nuisance to everyone. Imperial and otherwise. Think he’ll be there.”

Rex laughed and rolled his eyes, “trust me, I’d expect nothing less from him. He’s had the spirit of a rebel since the day I met him. He’s admittedly…tough to rationalize with at times, but his heart’s in the right place.”

“Well, we’ll find out who’s at this meeting soon enough.” I said, as we approached the entry to the tunnels and stepped inside to find it was already pre-lit for our arrival. Torched flames dotted the wall every couple feet and it was easy to find our way around since only the paths we needed were lit.

“Hey, mesh’la?” He stopped, pulling me back into his arms.

I rested both my hands on his chest and smiled up at him, “yes, Captain?”

He grabbed my face in both his hands, kissing passionately and urgently, like everything he’d ever needed the courage to do depended on this to give it life. He pulled away hesitantly, like he didn’t want to stop, and pressed his cheek to mine. “Thank you. For being here with me. For being there for all of us.”

“It’s what every good soldier would do for their men, right? I may not have been able to fight alongside you during the war. But I can fight to protect you all now. I’d do anything to make this right.”

Rex held me against his chest tightly, like if we stayed here nothing would change. Like the fate of his brothers wouldn’t have to be determined by what we say to a group of people that had enough power amongst them to once again choose what happens to millions of clones.

I breathed in the deep musky scent of him, the faint undertones of the flowers from the meadow still present all over the blue jacket he wore. I could practically feel my heart jumping through my chest to calm his. “No matter what they decide, Rex, I won’t stop.”

“I know.” He muttered, pulling back and holding my hand to lead us to the door at the end of the tunnel. “You’re going to make me proud in there.”

“I could say the same, you know. And if they don’t show you the respect you deserve, I’ll have something to say about it, Captain.” I laughed, watching him straighten up and snap right back into military mode like he’d been taught to do his entire life.

He shook his head and laughed to himself, looking straight ahead as he tapped on the tunnel exit three times to signal our arrival.

“Hey, you know something?” He asked softly as someone entered the passkey into the blast doors on the other side.

“Hmmm, what?” I whispered, the doors beginning to open as I stared at him quizzically.

“I love you.”

“I know.”

–

For a supposedly small uprising against the Empire, there sure were a lot more well-known and easily recognizable faces than we thought. Representatives from planets all over the galaxy sat around a large holotable, a star map in the center serving as placeholders to guide everyone where to sit. Rex and I had two obvious empty seats directly beside Bail.

From just a small glance around the table, I recognized a few people immediately. Senator Mothma of Chandrila, a close friend and ally to both Padmé and Bail over the years, sat across from us. Beside her were several Rodians, who were serving in place of Senator Farr who I knew quite well before his untimely murder by one of his own. Humans from several planets who I recognized by face more than name filled the chairs between her and someone I knew would show up.

Saw Gerrera leaned back in his chair, arms folded across his chest and sporting bacta patches over what must have been a nasty blow to his left eye. He was accompanied by a young, well-dressed and clean cut man, probably about my age. I’d never seen him before, but he looked about as comfortable standing around this table as Rex and I were.

Our hosts, rebels from Fest sat nearest to Bail and were in control of the swirling and ever changing holo in front of us. Beautiful blue Pantoran women led by Senator Chuchi were cautiously talking amongst themselves as they tried hard to avoid their neighbor.

Cham Syndulla, his wife and several of his famed Freedom Fighters glared at the group of leaders around the table. To my memory, they were a proud people who were not quick to forget just how little they were helped by the Republic brass during and after the war. They all had less respect for these leaders than they did their own representative, which was saying something considering they were led by Senator Taa.

“This is a group of people I didn’t think I’d ever see in one room together.” Rex joked sarcastically under his breath, holding my hand and keeping his head down as we took our place just within the protection of Bail’s shadow.

“Everyone seems restless. On edge. Gods…who knows what's been going on on their planets since the Empire took over. I don’t blame them for being desperate enough to work alongside people they didn’t like.” I commented, keeping a watchful eye on the people around us. I didn’t need them to notice us before we were ready, get startled and do something rash.

Luckily, three chimes signaled the beginning of the meeting before we could worry about that happening. All the lights in the room, except the spotlights around the table, dimmed down to near nothingness. Bail’s focused and determined face illuminated and the remaining voices quieted instantly.

“Good evening everyone. I trust you all have been wondering what calls this urgent meeting to Fest. I wished it was under more optimal circumstances, but such is the way of war. All of you have been gathered here in secret today for a special briefing, one that discloses information privy to the Empire’s continued growth and occupation of more and more worlds. Many of you had once known the loyal protection of the members of the Grand Army of the Republic. Several of you would not be standing here today without their valiant efforts. Tonight’s briefing is with great concern for the status of the lives of the millions of clone troopers scattered across our galaxy.” Bail exclaimed, his voice firm, but calm and his hands resting with ease on the edge of the holo table.

“What about them? We know what they’ve done. Why should any of us feign concern for such betrayal?” One voice hissed.

“Are they not the enemy? The very thing we are fighting against!?” Another voice cried out. I gripped Rex’s hand tightly, hoping this wouldn’t get to him the way it was me. More and more angry voices filled the room before Bail raised his hands.

“That is what we are here to discuss. We have very important intel that has been delivered to us by two individuals who both risked their lives to report this information to support our efforts. They,” he turned his body toward us both, the spotlight following and illuminating our faces now and motioned with his hands, “would very much like to provide us with vital insight that could help us make more sense of all that has happened.”

Audible gasps filled the room as Rex removed his hat and revealed his face. He stood at stern and serious attention, the familiar focused scowl of a determined clone reappearing in a snap. He hadn’t gone into duty mode in so long, yet it was still so perfectly second nature to him. His hand still held mine beside him as he waited for our introductions from Bail. Finally, he spoke, proud and confident, like always.

“My name is Captain Rex. My designated birth number is CT-7567. I was commanding officer of the 501st clone battalion led by Jedi General Anakin Skywalker. I am here today, risking my life, to reveal a sinister truth. That the decimation of the jedi order by my…my brothers was a plot orchestrated into our genetic code by the Chancellor years ago. That none of what the men you all knew did was done willingly. My coming forward today is living proof that betrayal did not happen by choice, but instead was manipulated within the minds of every clone by force through use of an organic inhibitor chip placed in our brains during our embryonic stages.” He stopped and looked at me, opening up the datapad with all the brain scans we had gotten our hands on.

“I know that what the Captain says sounds…beyond the realm of possibility. Certifiably insane. But I have seen the chips with my own eyes, witnessed the effects of their activation first hand. In front of you are the brain scans of five separate clone troopers. The organic chips were present in the same location in all specimens. These chips were implemented into every clone by the very same person who coordinated their creation and who programmed them with demands that rendered them useless to resist whatever order he desired. The Chancellor…the Emperor himself.” I explained, swiping through the brain scans of Rex, Hunter, Wrecker, Tech and Fives to prove that each contained the identical growth in the same spot. I looked around the room to gauge the level of understanding and every face seemed equally as entranced by our findings as they were horrified.

“So what did this supposed chip make them do? What was it like?” Senator Chuchi spoke timidly, staring up at the holoscans with ever increasing worry.

Rex cleared his throat and closed his eyes. “It felt like my mind snapped. We all received a transmission from the Emperor. The trigger words were spoken and…our independence, our very will was just…gone. Stolen from us. I couldn’t fight it. It was like who I’d grown into, the man I’d chosen to be, was shut off in an instant. I became blindly led by one mission. To destroy all the jedi and anyone who supported them. I nearly killed the one I served. So long as this chip remains inside, we are powerless to be anything but a human killing machine.”

“How did you survive this?” Mon Mothma’s lofty and languid voice inquired, her hands folded to support her chin as she watched deep in thought.

Rex turned and pointed to the scar on his scalp. “I had it removed. As did all the brothers whose brain scans you saw today. With them removed, we are instantly back to the men you knew. The men we are. We cannot take back what we were made to do. We will all have to live with the loss of the Generals we loved as our own Fathers, Mothers, Sisters and Brothers. But unless we all are given the opportunity for chip removal, we are doomed to live in involuntary enslavement to the Empire or worse…” He nodded to signal the next part of our explanation, the holorecording we had smuggled out of the prison that day.

“Rex and I have obtained intel from within Imperial command that the clones inhibitor chips were also programmed to act as remote kill switches. Unless their unwavering commitment to the Empire can be proven better than that of volunteers, they will be destroyed.” The holorecording of both Rampart and Tarkin discussing their plans played for the entire alliance to hear and when it finished they sat absorbing the information in near silence for a long time.

“What is it that you are asking of this group?” A Rodian asked skeptically, her large eyes narrowing in suspicion.

“For your help in making this right. Many of you know me. You know my dedication to the Republic, to the Senate,” I paused, closing my eyes and letting out a deep sigh of sorrow escape me, “to Senator Amidala, my most beloved mentor. She trusted the clones and fought for their rights and equal treatment as much as I have these many years. These men are gifted, brilliant soldiers and leaders, and intensely loyal friends. Millions of them deserve the chance to be free from a life of unwilling service to the Empire. An Empire that treats them like spare parts instead of men. Living, breathing men with hopes, dreams and loved ones. Haven’t we all seen enough senseless and unnecessary death? One mass extinction is one too many for our lifetimes. Help us ensure that there will not be another one.” I stood at the helm of the table now, all eyes jumping between myself and Rex.

“We don’t deserve to die for a choice we never made.” Rex said firmly, with more passion and emotion breaking through his proper, by the book exterior than he’d ever permitted before. His deep brown eyes reflected the same spark of light, the same spirit of rebellion that we felt watching the sunset beside Padmé’s tomb. This was his moment, this was his purpose. To demand that his life, all their lives, were more important than duty. Each clone deserved to know that and Rex’s mission for the rest of his life was to find a way to make that dream possible.

Senator Mothma closed her bright blue eyes and let a single solemn tear slip down the rosy porcelain curve of her cheek. She was always an ethereal being with a quiet air of sadness haunting her every move like it hurt her to watch injustice poison her almost heavenly existence. She let a broken, sorrowful smile widen her pale lips before the stoic wall of a gracious, expressionless stare reappeared. “Be that as it may, we simply do not have the numbers or the credits to spare to support such a lofty effort as a liberation of this magnitude. I’m afraid there is no course of action we can take that would delude suspicion. We are a small, but growing effort. I cannot risk exposure for such a fringe conspiracy, my dear.”

Saw Gerrera’s booming laugh broke through the silence from the far side of the conference table. “Risk. HA. Senator Mon Mothma…from her purist ivory tower in the clouds. Watching planets…hell- entire systems suffocate under the Empire’s rule while you waste time arguing with what’s left of a broken senate. A senate that never worked for all even at its peak. While I lost my planet, my sister, where were you? When my freedom fighters die for the truth, where are you? Risk. What do you know of risk?”

Mothma’s head swiveled in his direction and I could practically feel the steam rising as her anger did. “Don’t speak to me as if I have done nothing to contribute. All I donate, all I speak out about to hide my work, all I give up at great personal cost…I risk everything I have to bring an end to this tyranny.”

“The blood my people have spilled for liberation is worth more to me than every credit you’ve ever touched, Senator. Not until the body who stands before the red blades and blaster bolts of the Empire is your own will I hear you speak about what giving up everything means.” Cham Syndulla’s temper flared, his pointed teeth bared in disgust as the infighting continued.

Bail raised his hands to silence the room. “That’s enough. This infighting will get us nowhere. The matter still stands, the Captain brings us insight and truth at a cost higher than any of us could ever know. We have all lost family to the Empire. That is what is at risk for this man. For all of them. We cannot sit idly by and allow mass extermination to happen again.”

“We don’t have the numbers.” A Rodian man I didn’t recognize argued, the worry beginning to cloud the complex nebula of his eyes.

“How would we ever determine which of these clones is worthy of having his life saved?”

“What if they killed one of the great Jedi Generals? We cannot excuse this behavior and reward them with freedom. They should be executed for their crimes!”

More and more voices cried out in fear around the table and more and more I could feel it demoralizing Rex to his very core. The fists by his sides that were once curled in determination unfurled as his shoulders sagged in a sign of defeat that I hoped was only obvious to me.

I stood up slowly and grabbed his bicep in reassurance as I stepped past him. I slammed my fist on the table and quieted the room in an instant. “Listen to yourselves! Arguing and debating over the minute details of a decision that was never theirs to make. Punishing them for crimes they did not willingly commit. These are men. Good men. Men you once trusted with your lives. Who answered us when we needed help. And now that they need us you all could stand to close your eyes and turn your backs to another grand injustice? You would sit back and let the Empire wipe them out the same way they would every one of your planets? Your families? Your people? You seek to call yourselves a Rebellion. A Rebellion against a single being who oppresses all - every man, woman and child - who dares call out for their liberation. Who are all of you to place boundaries in the way of freedom? If you leave these men to suffer the consequences of a life stolen before its beginning, then this Republic was dead long before a clone ever picked up a blaster. Help us free these men from the binders we created or wear the scars of their loss on your very skin like the tallies on his armor.” I shouted, grabbing his helmet from the bag at our feet and tossing it in the middle of the holotable.

The people in the room gasped at the sheer brutality of it all etched into the plastoid. Each tally wasn’t for a republic victory like I once thought. Every tally stood for a brother's life lost from their battalion. Rex wore their loss on his outer skin so he’d never forget them. Pretty soon one tally stood for five men, for ten, for a hundred. So he didn’t run out of room. Plastoid was designed specifically to be light and wearable for extended periods of time. Yet, each etched memorial strike felt like the weight of a thousand brothers on each piece of armor. It wasn’t until he’d buried his brothers by hand outside the Tribunal did he realize how heavy a load survival truly was. How exhausted he was by the unbearably large loss of life he was surrounded by.

And now for the first time I truly felt it collapse down on top of me in the same way. I took in a deep breath to hold back the tears I wanted to cry and instead spoke again, my voice viciously serious and far more scornful than would’ve been permitted on the Senate floor. “I can’t bear to carry the weight of any more stolen lives. Can you?”

The representatives from planets all around the galaxy exchanged glances, silently absorbing the heavy tone in the omen of my words. Each and every person here stood for the lives of millions, just like Rex did. They had entire worlds to protect and their own interests to serve. They came together for a common goal. To destroy the evil that had taken root in the center of the galaxy we knew. Whether they liked it or not, that galaxy included the lives of clones.

Maybe they were never ready to address what was to come of them when the war was over. Maybe for the clones war would never be over. They would be re-conscripted and re-sold to fight in other wars, for other purposes. Maybe some planned to retire them. Let them choose to go free and live a life they should’ve been afforded all along. Maybe we would never know what their future would’ve been. Because this war wasn’t over. It had just begun and the forming rebellion now had the choice to deliberate on the very same issue they had more than five years ago. What to do with a clone army.

Senator Mothma let out a deep sigh and looked to where Rex and I stood beside Bail Organa. “Shall we put it to a vote? Senator Organa may record our conclusion.” The group of leaders audibly agreed in unison.

Rex turned to me with an expression of defeat I’d only seen on him once in our lives together. After the death of the way things were.

I leaned into his side and gripped his bare hand, his very real, very human, flesh and blood hand, in my own and did my best to comfort him. To brace him for whatever the possible result might be.

“Those in favor of exploring the liberation of the clones of the former Grand Army of the Republic and the removal of inhibitor chips say I.”

Three voices spoke.

An entire room full of decent people who I’d come to call friends of mine over the years, who had their lives, their entire planets saved time and again by clones throughout the war, who claimed numerous times to care about acting against injustice…

Nearly an entire room full of people fell silent. As the bystanders of oppression tend to do.

Of the dissenting voices, there was one whose accented tone stood out immediately. Cham Syndulla looked around the room in vehement disgust at the cowardice surrounding him. Clones had lived with his people since nearly the very beginning of the war and had become as much a part of their cause as anyone. There were even whispers on the holonet of an uprising on Ryloth that eliminated ISB forces from the planet for a rotation.

The second was Saw Gerrera, speaking in opposition of the young, yet timid and unsure former CIS Senator that accompanied him. It had been more than a year since Rex had helped train Saw and his rebels on his home planet of Onderon. But from what I could tell, Saw had aged quicker while fighting a war. Something that clearly made him identify with the clones' cause. Him being close enough to Rex to consider calling him a friend of sorts didn’t hurt either.

The last of the three voices, to no surprise, was Bail. Bail who believed without a shadow of a doubt that the clones were worthy of saving. Bail trusted my judgment and he trusted Rex because I did. Because Padmé always did. He had given us the shirt off his back and housed us all in secret when doing so could get him killed. Bail was with us.

But not even the tried and true, reliable and powerful voice of Senator Organa was enough to convince the group of utterly defeated leaders before us.

Palpatine didn’t just destroy the Jedi and the Republic as we knew it. He didn’t just take the will and independence right out of the bodies and minds of every clone. Palpatine destroyed the trust the people had in the men they owed everything to. The people no longer believed or felt safe with the group of them.

In many ways, it was like they were already dead in the eyes of the people. And pretending they weren’t anything worth saving was easier than coming to terms with the idea that they were individuals who deserved a life they were never going to be given. That the former Republic senators and leaders were signing death warrants for the second time since their creation.

Despite all that each and every clone fought and died to uphold for trillions of lifeforms across the galaxy, the people they saved didn’t care enough about them to return the favor. I broke inside as I watched Rex realize how devoid of meaning his life was to the people at the table. There was nothing I could do to ease that pain. To shield him from a cold reality he had given everything to try to prevent.

Bail made a solemn, apologetic glance over at me before he rested his hands on the table and spoke calmly, “It is decided then. The Alliance declines the motion.”

“Then this is no alliance.” Cham spat, “We do not abandon our own on Ryloth. The clones are as much family to my people as our own children. I will not stand beside people who treat them as anything otherwise.”

Saw let out a hearty laugh, contemptuous and paired with an arrogant, haughty smile. “You see, Mothma? See how your indecisive hand-wringing pushes away those who are willing to act? Your fear of consequences condemns them all to death. There will come a time where action is your only option. And I will not be waiting on anyone’s permission to fight.”

Their words were severe and fracturing. There was a clear lack of consistency within the levels of this newly formed Alliance. Mothma was all about decisive calculation, carefully orchestrated solutions without unnecessary loss. Syndulla and Saw, on the other hand, were from the school of thought that fighting and action were the only meaningful tools to battling an oppressive regime. Every loss made in the pursuit of freedom was not without purpose.

Rex usually agreed or at least understood this mentality. It’s the rule by which his brothers had lived for the last decade or so. Yet avoiding unnecessary loss was exactly what we both came to this meeting to do. Even though we looked forward to speaking the truth to people with the means and positions to actually do something, it felt like there was no right answer. That no one among them had any one right idea about how to fix things. We came here hoping for clarity and camaraderie. Now it just felt pointless.

Rex’s hand squeezed mine, turning to stare at me with the same vacant emotion that was filling my chest. This was not the outcome we wanted. This was not what we thought a rebellion would be. This was nothing short of demoralizing to everything we had worked toward. We both knew it.

Slowly, his fingers unfurled and he stepped back, letting the bickering at the table continue. He looked at me like all he wanted to do was run. I nodded and he faded into the back corner of the room, slipping out the door without so much as a word from any of the others in the room. I stood frozen in place, coming to the realization that whatever dream I’d once had of following in Senator Organa or Amidala’s footsteps was all a farce.

I would never allow myself to debate when people’s lives were at stake. That was never the person I was. I grew up in a criminal underworld and found my way through by crawling and scratching my way to survival. To do the right thing in a place surrounded by people who never did. Once, I thought that meant climbing up the sky scraping buildings to the light of the surface. To the place where liberty and fairness and political discussion could shape a better world for our people.

But now, knowing that everything was manipulated far before I was even born. That every single person in the Senate building was a pawn in one person’s lust for ultimate power. Through knowing Rex, and every clone I’d ever met, I knew that I wasn’t someone who spoke for others. I was someone who fought for others. It wasn’t until now, at this very meeting, that I realized what a difference there was between those two things.

Lost in my own numbing thoughts and realization of the death of a former dream, Bail nudged my shoulder delicately. I turned to him with more betrayal in my eyes than I’d ever looked at him with and let out a shaky breath just barely holding back my tears. He subtly nodded his understanding, his condolences for being outvoted, his deep, mournful sorrow at his inability to garner enough support for what he knew was the right thing. Even the greatest man I knew could fail sometimes.

“Go. He needs you.” Bail muttered below the crowd noise, “Your place is with them. I pray you find the solution they deserve. I’m sorry I couldn’t.”

I did my best to hide the scorned glint in my eyes, but the way he averted his gaze from me told me I hadn’t. “I know you’ve done all you could for us. We appreciate your help. But I expected more from the people I once knew. She would’ve been ashamed to have once stood amongst them.”

Bail sighed, “she understood sacrifice better than anyone. She would’ve understood our position.” He argued in the group's defense, though knowing he was on the losing side of our discussion. He could be too fair sometimes.

I thought about what Padmé would’ve done with millions of innocent lives on the line. I thought about the personal risk she would’ve taken to protect the rights of others. About all the things she’d do to protect me and the person I loved. Before I could realize what I was doing, I rested my hand on the bump I’d been hiding in plain sight.

“And she would’ve understood mine.” I bit back the tears brimming, as his eyes widened in realization. “They fought and died to protect your families. And since none of you find them worthy enough to return the favor, I’m going to do what you all won’t. Even if it kills me.”

I took off toward where Rex left the briefing room, Bail speechless and with little more to add that wouldn’t make this worse. The torch light of the tunnel we entered through led me back to the safety of the meadow. The tall grasses swaying in the haze of twilight felt like whips against my skin trying to hold me back. All the peace that we’d found here during the waning hours of daylight in late afternoon was replaced by the shaded gloom of night.

Running down the path left by his footprints, I followed his steps into the clearing of the open meadow. All the bright flowers of hope had closed as the light faded away. Not even the planet's three pale moons could be seen through the thickening clouds of fog rolling in. I could just make out his silhouette sitting beneath the knotted roots and limbs of the winding ancient tree, likely the closest he’d get to the jedi presence we all desperately needed right now.

I approached slowly, his jacket and pants sloughed off and in a heap on the ground behind him. He sat in the body glove he felt more comfortable in than real clothes and shivered slightly each time the wind picked up, brushing through curls he’d never worn this long before. With one knee pulled to his chest and the other dangling over the bended edge of the hilltop into nothingness, he stared off with his hands joined together in his lap.

My body collapsed down next to his, pulling him into a hug he was almost too numb to recognize immediately. He buried his face in my shoulder and tried calming his panicked breathing, coming in short heaving bursts or such faint inhales it felt at times like he wasn’t breathing at all. His mind was racing, but his body had surrendered, the control he’d maintained throughout the briefing completely cracking as reality set in.

My fingertips and palms took turns caressing circles and massages at the nape of his neck, totally failing to stop my tears from falling too. We could’ve been sitting there for hours, minutes, entire rotations and it still would’ve been impossible to tell. Such a brutal rejection in our darkest hour made time stand still while we tried to gather our thoughts.

After a long time he spoke, “I didn’t want to believe they don’t care. I-I hoped they’d find some humanity in us…in me.” He sniffled, sitting up and switching positions to let me lay my head on him now. “The simple fact is…we were always just numbers to most of them. All those battles, those men we lost, were just meaningless credits spent instead of lives lived. No one ever asked how it made us feel. It’s ironic that the ones we were forced to eliminate are the only ones who would’ve saved us.”

“I won’t give up, Rex. Whatever we can manage together…the five of us, we’ll help as many brothers as we can. I won’t abandon you all. We’ll find our own way.”

He slid me into his lap and kissed my forehead, “We’ll do all we can, until we can’t anymore. And when that time comes and we have to run, you listen to me. If we can’t save all my brothers, then we at least have to try to survive to live the lives they would’ve wanted.”

I nodded hesitantly, “it’s just…cruel. What kind of people create men who were only ever meant to die? How could I have wanted to be one of them?”

Rex tipped my chin up to look past the tears pooling in my eyes. “You’re not like them. You found me. When all the galaxy saw me - saw all of us - as weapons of war and destroyers of the Republic, you loved me. You love me.” He brushed away the streams of tears on my cheeks and let a bittersweet smile inch across his own stained face. “So maybe I was meant for that too.”

I let out a choked sob because his words, his feelings were selfless and beautiful when most people would be filled with nothing but despair. “Rex…it’s-it’s about more than that. You are meant to live. To be a survivor. So you can have the life that every one of you deserved to know. To grow old in.”

His eyes fell and he swallowed slowly, like it hurt him to absorb the idea that his own destiny might differ greatly from that of which his duty had always stated. “Living now means being with you. If I was always meant to survive to live a life I choose, then I was meant to spend it with you.” Our gaze into each other's eyes was an unspoken, unbreakable agreement to live in spite of the odds against us.

Life is about the pursuit of glorious purpose. Not to have it scripted to you or forced upon you at birth, but to find it for yourself. Rex found a reason to survive despite all the obstacles and though now that he knew his true purpose, he still felt he had a few more challenges to conquer.

“Pardon my interruption,” A smooth, accented voice whispered into the air behind us. “And my deepest apologies for what happened back there. I know many of them are not ready to experience, first hand, the harsh reality of war.”

Rex and I turned to find that Cham Syndulla and two of his younger advisors stood behind us under the cover of nightfall. We exchanged glances, before Rex stood up to meet him where he stood beside the twisted tree roots. “It’s alright, Cham, sir. Thank you for sticking up for us back there. We need all the support we can get now.”

“That…is why I am here. Your brother, Howzer, speaks of you with great regard.” Cham explained, sounding far more polite than he probably was on a battlefield. “We would like to present you, your partner and any other free clones with the means to support liberation. We have an opportunity for you, Captain Rex.”

Rex perked up, shaking off the effects that the meeting had on him the only way he ever knew how; diving right back into his duty. Knowing there was nothing else we could do to sway the larger rebellion in our favor, I squeezed Rex’s bicep to confirm my agreement. He reached for his helmet in the bag between us and slung it under his arm like he did thousands of times before when he meant business.

“...well, what’s the mission?”

Notes: I am sad :) also uhhhhh rebellions aren't easy, people don't always agree, political frustrations rampant as I think they would be during times like this. this fic has basically become an unnamed/physically undescribed oc...if you want to know more about her check here or send me an ask!

taglist (please let me know if you'd like to be added/removed):

@literallydontlook @sleepingsun501 @moonstrider9904 @thefact0rygirl @fett-djarin @starwarsmeninhelmets @zinzinina @kaminocasey @pinkiemme @queenquazar @galacticgraffiti @loversoncsilla @ashotofspotchka @rexandechosandwich @calkestiis @jocastaslibrary @twistedstitcher27 @wild-karrde @patchmates

#wip captains log #wip captains log chapter 12 #captain rex x reader #captain rex x f!reader #captain rex x you #captain rex x fem!reader #post order 66 #the clones fanfiction #captains log!reader

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letitrainathousandflames · 4 years ago

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“disney/fans keep making more jedi characters that exist in after-order 66′s jedi purge in their comics/movies/games/tv/novels/fanfic/fanart and it doesnt make sense bc it takes away the weight/impact of the Jedi Purge”

Okay, but have you ever read upon real-world attempted genocides? They are often carried out by people in power with the full intent of exterminating people of one ethnicity/faith/etc, and the numbers are always staggering, terrifying. But what do most of them have in common? They FAIL to truly exterminate their target group.

Obi-Wan’s work to cut off the transmission beacon calling all Jedi to Coruscant stalled Palpatine’s attempt to lure them to the clone trooper’s deadly aim. Bail Organa tried (unfortunately failing) to save a padawan kid. Even at the apogee of the Purge Order, there were already people fighting against it.

Some people that had been working to the Republic and still believed in the Republic’s ideals during the transition to the Empire might’ve done their part in jamming a few cogs in the machine. Officials might’ve issued out fake death certificates. Non-Jedi citizens might’ve smuggled Jedi survivors in their ships simply because it was the right thing to do. Border patrol agents might’ve looked the other way, allowing them passage to the Outer Rim. Tailors could be making regular clothes to clone refugees to make them look less suspicious out of their robes. People could be rushing to issue marriage certificates and swear on the Maker that ‘these two have been married for decades, officer, this is no jedi, he’s been a farmer all his life, we all know him since he was a boy’.

Genocide attempts often fail because they don’t account for the inherent wish to help and care for others that resides in all people’s hearts. They rely on an empty expectation that literally everyone will ostracize and snitch on the refugees and runaways, that no one will be compassionate enough to adopt, marry, smuggle, feed, protect an innocent victim of persecution.

So, yeah, of course the Purge caused a great many losses to the Jedi community, and of course that is important to the Star Wars story as a whole. But in a story that spans across an entire universe with countless planets, moons, etc... who is to say how many survived, or how many were born force-sensitive but never taken to the temple? There are countless possibilities.

So pick your favorite and start writing that fanfic you’ve been wanting to.

#genocide m/#we have so many beautiful stories of people that stood up against racism/xenophobia/religious persecution #people that could've just sat back and watch it happen but CHOSE to take the risk #i'm just saying I trust people #some people are awful #but some people... are willing to put everything down just to help

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soclonely · 4 years ago

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More pointless clone headcanons pls?

Why the hell not. I have plenty

Rex- Has lost his swim shorts while going down a water slide Echo- has premature grey hairs but always dyes them because he doesn’t want Fives to give him shit about it. Fives- breakfast is his favorite meal Jesse- hates shag carpets. They really creep him out. Kix- Side hustle of giving IVs to hungover troopers Tup- Has a celebrity burn book of senators and famous people he doesn’t like Dogma- Once tried on the Fives pauldrons while the others were working out in the gym and the man nearly fainted with delight. Hardcase- Has a crush on Riyo Chuchi Coric- accidentally called Rex mom once and it still haunts him to this day Bly- his knuckles always pop when he bends them 99- cannot sleep without a personal fan. Cody- once experimented with a mohawk in his cadet days, only he did it the wrong way and had a bald strip going right through the middle of his head. hasn’t touched it since Waxer/Boil- Teaches shinies to read more than just basic books and work related things. Wolffe- cannot eat rotisserie chicken because it looks like his generals head Boost/Sinker-collects lego figurines Hunter- when hunter works out, he throws his hair up in a ponytail. Idk this isnt much of a headcanon i just have thoughts of this man all steamy and hot after a sparring match with wrecker and his hair in a messy ponytail. Wrecker- waits a big beard but tech won’t let him grow it because he ends up being the one to brush it out for the big guy. Tech- uses zipties as a belt on his blacks because they are slightly too big in the waist but he hopes to bulk out so he doesnt want to tailor them Crosshair- Likes a good BBQ and a cold beer

#khai come get ya juice #the clones as #pointless headcanons

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nevertheless-moving · 4 years ago

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Unnamed Extremely Bad Plan to Defeat Darth Sideous AU - SW AU NO 9

Hopefully writing down this star wars au will help me exorcise the cringe demon that helped midwife it. Time travel au where obi-wan and Anakin come up with an extremely SPECIFIC and UNCOMFORTABLE plan to defeat Palpatine because it unfortunately, would actually work, as it capitalizes on one of Palpatine’s easiest to reach political vulnerabilities. This is not a unique plan- there are other au’s like this, but this one is mine. When searching for ways to explain exactly why this anti-sith strategy inspires such cringe and delight in myself I realized, with sinking dread, I have seen this in an Always Sunny episode...which yeah. I might be over reacting but hey, cringe is a personal phenomenon, everyone’s different.

Anyway! Uh here’s a bunch of plot that will eventually culminate in the plan.

*Too much plot, aaaah*. **All plot actually.** ***Its 1 am and this is still a draft*** ****It’s 2am**** *****This post will be just be background I guess.*****

*******STAR WARS AU NO 9 LAZILY OUTLINED CHAPTER ONE*********

Force ghosts Darth Vader and Ben Kenobi have had time to yell at one another without need for breath, and have more-or-less come to terms with the trainwreck that was their shared life. I wouldn’t call them well adjusted, but they’re more stable then they were the last decade or so of their living existence.

In haunting Luke, they end up encountering an artifact in an ancient Willis temple that offers spirits the chance to fix the mistakes they made in life. It doesn’t truly unwrite what’s been done, but it lets you create an alternate timeline. So this galaxy will still be what it is, but some alternate galaxy somewhere could at least have it better. Its almost never been used, because becoming one with the force usually lets you accept the past, but viewed objectively, Vader and Ben’s lives involved an extreme amount of yikes. They say goodbye to Luke and are flung backwards and sideways.

Anakin is holding his mother as she dies. Obi-Wan is landing on Genosis.

Vader just barely manages to avoid slaughtering the tuskens. To be honest, he doesn’t really get why he shouldn’t- his moral compass is still pretty f-ed up. He’s fairly certain the force is just torturing him, but still he controls himself (for Padme for Luke for Leia).

I’m gonna say well-adjusted!Vader sees murder in general as more of a vice than a sin- on par with having a beer. And really well adjusted Vader is willing to admit to himself that he’s an alcoholic, he seriously cannot regulate, its a problem. He really can’t let himself go, because he’ll just end up spiraling. And so he restrains himself and only seriously maims a few of the adult raiders.

Vader figures he can always come back later and slowly torture them to death if this whole ‘save the future’ thing doesn’t pan out.

Obi-wan leaves his shuttle and hides under a rock for 30 minutes. He calculates thats just enough time for him to pretend he went on an extremely effective and sneaky fact finding mission- just in case anyone checks R4′s records. Gets back in shuttle and gets the fuck out of there, much to Dooku’s chagrin, who lost sight of him after the shuttle landed and is now going to have to switch to one of his alternate start-the-war plans.

On the flight back he reports everything to the council- fallen Dooku and the separatist leaders, the trade federation and the massive droid army, Jango Fett the clone template of the republic army (?) working for the separatists. He briefly comms Anakin, but anyone hacking into their conversations would hear only a nonsensical, rambling conversation. Later, a hacker might turn over the idea that they were speaking in elaborate code, but why would Jedi invent such a thing during peacetime?

The war still starts; at this point in the timeline it was inevitable; the artifact was only designed to give them the chance to correct their own failings, not the galaxy’s. Palpatine still gets his emergency powers.

The same day the armies are discovered, separatist war ships take off to engulf Ryloth. The Jedi are instructed by the senate to lead the clone army and provide immediate relief-this will not be a repeat of the republic’s inaction on Naboo. It’s both better and worse than the first Battle of Genosis. So many more civilians are caught in the crossfire. The first titanic battle is not contained to evacuated droid factories, but rages across an entire populated world. The battle lasts for weeks.

The main reason this fight is less deadly is solely due to the fact that General Kenobi manages to maneuver his way into high command of the entire army.

“I believe assumptions were made since I was the first point of contact with Kamino, Masters,” the Knight explained apologetically to the arriving high council members. “I realize its not quite appropriate, but for right now I am the Jedi most familiar with our forces and the enemies. I would, of course, prefer to cede the role to someone else.”

The assembled Jedi can feel the truth in that statement.

“For better or for worse, advance troops were directed by the senate to land planetside and have met heavy resistance. I managed to redirect them to a more defensible position, where they can provide surface based cover fire for incoming reinforcements. The battle has already begun.” He received a grim nod of approval from Master Windu.

“I feel the need to say now, that if there’s one thing I learned from my time as a general on Melida/Dann, or in working against Death Watch on Mandalore, its that having a clear chain of command is vital for a military to succeed. I don’t need to remind some of you that leadership breakdowns were what ultimately ended both the Stark Hyperspace War and the Yinchorri Crisis,” Masters Koon and Tiin exchanged looks before deliberately sending forth a small force wave of approval, understanding where this briefing was leading.

“I believe that unnecessarily restructuring command before the battle is won here could do far more harm than good.” The reminder of Obi-wan’s unusually militaristic apprenticeship put some of the assembled knights at ease even as it inspired a twinge of guilt in the older masters.

“In command you are, General Kenobi,” Master Yoda finally acknowledged. “A Jedi Master you will be, once done this battle is. Have us do, what would you?”

The battle lasts for weeks, and when its over, the commanding Jedi and Troopers involved will openly acknowledge that had anyone else been in command, it would’ve lasted months, if not years. Facing down logistical, strategic, and tactical problems on a scale unheard of for a thousand years, High General Kenobi does not falter.

Enemy reinforcements seem unending. For all their preparation, every single trooper is new to war, and secretly concerned that should they fall, they will be replaced with cadets who hadn’t even finished their training.

Obi-Wan is putting out fires before they can start. Much to their shock, clone commanders are informed that they will, for the time being, remain in charge of their troops. With a handful of exceptions, Jedi ‘Generals’ were in fact, to be treated as a cross between highly skilled commandoes and advisors with abnormally sourced field intelligence.

“All of you have spent your lives training to lead your brothers into combat. The Jedi Masters and knights who are being assigned to your divisions have not received such training.”

General Kenobi addressed the division commanders, some in person, some over holocomm. All focused in rapt attention as their General reordered the shape of their lives using language they could understand.

“The command structure I am issuing is designed to maximize our ability to utilize our respective strategic capabilities, while minimizing potential loss of your life. It will be our great privilege to serve alongside such an army, and while I fully expect a complementary exchange of knowledge in time, for now, focus on survival.”

The Jedi received similar briefings, tailored for their broader array of combat and military experience. Some, including Jedi Master Pong Krell and Grandmaster Yoda, were pulled aside and tasked with the essential mission of infiltrating and destroying the Droid factories on Genosis. If they were to have a chance of winning this war, they they would need to cut off the seemingly unceasing flow of droid reinforcements.

An elite squadron of Arctroopers and Jedi field operatives were covertly dispatched, Grandmaster Yoda himself in command. Considering Count Dooku had yet to appear anywhere near Ryloth...the grandmaster had the best chance of bringing in the fallen separatist leader alive for questioning.

Shortly after they left, Anakin arrived, having finally turned over Padme’s protection to her regular guard. With the military creation vote past, the assassination risk was considered minimal. The real delay in his arrival came from her repeated attempts to join the Grand Army of the Republic on Ryloth with the intent of coordinating humanitarian assistance. Eventually he managed to convince her that she could do more good in the senate.

After all, he pointed out, someone would need to followup the military creation act with a bill to grant clones equal citizen rights. Otherwise, the legal grey area that cloning fell under and their non-republic origin would inadvertently make the clones slaves.

His borrowed Nabooan cruiser entered the warzone with the grace and efficiency as a small neutron bomb.

Those close enough to see its flaming descent watched in horror, realizing that the high generals own padawan would likely be a war casualty before he ever engaged in combat.

The legion nearest to soon-to-be-ground-zero, under the command of Captain Rex of the 501st, were distracted by heated combat, as the temporary barricade they had put up to defend the civilian population gave way to droidika artillery.

While reloading, several dozen troopers happened to look up to see a speck detach itself from the hull as at spiraled in the lower atmosphere. Hope spread that the Jedi had managed to activate some sort of eject hatch. A skilled shocktrooper could probably control and and survive such a fall with luck, which mean a Jedi almost certainly could.

A few tactical scouts charged with watching the skies confirmed that the speck was indeed a humanoid. No chute was visible, but even 8 days into the war, rumors had already spread about how Master Windu had passed off his chute mid-air to a troopers who had been damaged by suppressing fire, cushioning his free fall solely with the tank he crushed upon landing.

Only one trooper, stationed in the town clock tower specifically to track the Padawan’s arrival and issued with a high-resolution farscope, saw the whole thing. Fortunately for his credibility later, in its current setting, the scope automatically logged photos every 5 seconds, ensuring that for years to come Obi-Wan would have a flipbook as evidence that he was not the crazy one.

CT-3609 or Blink (as he was named after winning the division wide staring contest on Kamino two year prior) forwarded the trajectory of the vehicle to command, who confirmed his analysis that it would impact two clicks out from their makeshift fort and not present a risk to civilian or trooper lives.

As it traversed the stratosphere a figure (desperate repair droid, Blink assumed) emerged from the cockpit to perch on the nose of the ship. As it entered the troposphere, it became painfully obvious that the figure jutting out from the hull of the ship was in fact not a humanoid droid, but an unarmored human. The Jedi stood on the prow of the ship, seemingly impervious to and oblivious of:

air resistance

centrifugal force

normal space gravity

Blink’s slack-jawed bewilderment

the flames engulfing the ship below him

At this range, the smirk on the man’s face was visible (man? boy? kriff is he even through puberty?). Several miles above the surface he leaped, diving towards the ground like a bird of prey.

To the west, the ship made impact with the ground, sending a shockwave that shook the tower just enough for Blink to lose visual in the final moments of descent. Cursing, as while he was confident the Jedi would inexplicably survive, he really wanted to see how. The trooper scanned the droid-engulfed farmland to the north for a crash site, to no avail. Lingering smoke from the burnt countryside negatively impacted visibility low to the ground.

Rather than trying to articulate his report into words, he sent the 50-odd frames the farscope had saved, as well as the coordinates for the jedi’s projected radius of touchdown. A quick radio over to long range electro-ballistics ensured that his landing wouldn’t be marred by friendly fire.

He awaited follow-up questions on the absurd entry method, which, when they came, mostly consisted of variations on “...Is this for real?” and eventually “Can you set the scope to video for a little while?” and finally “Do you think that’s how he got the name Skywalker?”

There was a temporarily lull in fire from the west, likely a ripple effect from the ship’s explosion. From his vantage point Blink could see his batchmates using the opportunity to try and plug the holes in their barricade with broken droid pieces. Regardless of the itch to join them, he knew he couldn’t leave his post until the Jedi actually arrived in camp. Finally, a distant explosion and thick pillar of smoke gave the Jedi’s position away.

He tried to make out details, but the scope had a difficult time focusing through the haze. Manually trying to fine tune the scope’s settings, Blink caught a glimpse of what looked like half a hover tank sailing through the air to impact with a trade federation troop carrier in a fiery explosion. Several more explosions, flying droid artillery, and plumes of smoke were caught on record before visual contact with the source was established. He was mostly visible as a blue blur, lightsaber mowing a meandering path towards their location.

It wasn’t until Skywalker braced himself in place to punch a droidaka into pieces that Blink caught actual sight of the man. Only his eyes were visible, nose and mouth covered by layers of cloth. He blurred, then reappeared on top a massive missile launcher attached to an absurdly heavily armored vehicle. A minute or so of rapid blue flashes passed, the longest he had seen concentrated in one area. Then Skywalker was gone, movement clearly visible as he for once he moved in a straight line, plowing a rapid path away from the launcher.

Less than 30 seconds later, Blink had to wince away from the scope, as a burning white explosion temporarily overwhelmed the direct light filter. The trooper panicked for a moment, thinking he had gone both deaf and blind, but the abrupt, sucking silence ended after a moment with a deafening sonic boom. The shockwave rattled the farscope, nearly knocking it over, but Blink managed to steady it and himself in time.

A cheer emerged from pleasantly surprised vod below. The entire droid legion that had been guarding the missile launcher and apparent ordinance bay was flattened.

It took a moment for the realization to set in that the background noise of missile and and anti-missile collisions directly overhead had slowed pace. With the northern flank gone, artillery were able to redouble efforts to the east, and a second white hot shockwave ensued, signaling that the tide of battle had shifted. It was almost too easy for the republics electro-ballistics to tactically devastate the surrounding forces.

Eventually some sort of win/loss programming must have set in and all forces outside of a certain radius began retreating southward, conceding the scorched land to the republic army. It was cadets work to clean up the final suicidal droid charge.

A commotion ensued as Skywalker leapt the barricade with a mid-air flip. The vod greeted him with cheers, as they correctly assumed his appearance had something to do with the skirmish’s decisive victory.

Blink sent the video of the battle to command and quickly packed up his scope and assorted equipment. Hurrying down the battered tower, Blink thought to himself that this Anakin Skywalker was the best sort of Jedi a trooper could ask for.

uh sorry i got really sidetracked there moving on

Kenobi and Skywalker quickly become the face of the war once again

they grit their teeth a bit, but when they finally have a moment to really plan they eventually agree that to take down Sideous they have to cut off his political power in addition to everything else, and taking advantage of their public personas was the most accessible way to do so (*evil laughter*)

While Dooku wasn’t captured, Yoda heard the truth in his old student’s cryptic warnings about a Sith in the Senate, and the council begins carefully editing their release of tactical plans to the Chancellor’s office in the hopes of ferreting out the spy in their midst.

Pong Krell looses two arms in his duel with Dooku. Obi-Wan successfully hides his smug pleasure at the news. Anakin enjoys makeing comparisons between him and Grievous.

Kenobi doesn’t allow the origin of the clones to go unexamined, although he agrees that if the public were informed that they don’t actually know who ordered them it would probably cause panic.

The ‘inhibitor chips’ are ‘discovered’ early on and Anakin leads the effort to ensure that they are phased out and removed immediately. This consists of reminding every Jedi who even hesitates about how how he as a child slave had some experience with control chips and unless you want to take a leaf out of the hutts books lets start doing brain surgery chop chop mmmkay?

(This isn’t to say that Vader doesn’t still a twinge of shame at acknowledging his slave roots. But it is eclipsed by the burning guilt that he knowingly acted as slave master to his troops for decades after Sideous wiped their minds. He tried to rationalize it to himself, after all he didn’t immediately understand what Order 66 had done to the troopers. But while the morality of murder was more of an intellectual concern than a personal one, treating people as things...)

The Kamonions are a little harder to budge, referencing contracts that they refuse to allow the Jedi to see

Finally Vader snuck into the Chief Medical Scientist’s home while she was sleeping and straight-up threatened to murder her and burn down her lab. At the risk of losing her life’s work, Nala Se complied.

Vader left with the final threat that in the event that Darth Tyranus caught wind and activated Order 66 prematurely, he would kill 100 Kamonians for every Jedi felled by troopers. Shaak Ti was pleased by the cloners sudden change of heart. Tyrannus, and by extension, Sideous, are in the dark.

Obi-Wan frequently publicly confronts Palpatine about the troops citizen status, urging him make use of his emergency powers to grant them citizenship and full pay, with the option to leave the army should they so wish.

Anakin manages to play off his avoidance of the Chancellor as disappointment in his perceived lack of dedication to anti-slavery efforts

Finally Palpatine gives in- regardless of what happens next, the troops will be looked after.

With 2/3rds of the troopers dechipped, Vaderkin is eager to kill Sideous again, but after several intense screaming matches and sparring sessions, the time travelers come to the agreement that even if they succeed in their duel, with things as they were, the perception of the Jedi military coop would cause mass civil unrest. The scattered sith apprentices, while individually weak, were more than capable of magnifying that fear and anger until the galaxy breaks. Darth Sideous wanted to ensure that if he couldn’t have the galaxy, no one would.

(Vader knows this. Sideous enjoyed monologuing, and much of his plotting couldn’t be safely bragged about until after he had decisively won, leaving Vader as the unwilling receptacle for years of pent-up rants and self-satisfied gloats about the inevitability of his victory)

Continued Here

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