#But Lux was not right for Ahsoka

[aspiringnexu]

One of the best things about fandom is what I like to call anti-shipping. Or roommate-ifying if you will.

The phenomenon by which a show desperately tries to make a pairing canon and the fandom just resolutely refuses to believe it.

"They live together!"

"Oh cool, roommates."

"They're kissing!"

"What good friends."

"They said 'I love you'!"

"Ah, platonic love."

"They're literally having sex!"

"Wow, very good friends."

"They have a kid together!"

"What healthy co-parenting between good friends."

[smhalltheurlsaretaken]

Is Bo-Katan actually supposed to be 15 in TCW ahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaaaaaaa

In case you didn’t hear … Bo-Katan is now apparently two decades younger than her sister because that makes total sense.

Happy Mando Day.

[ahsokasupremacy]

Alright, here are my Top Ten funniest guesses (+1 that I bet nobody ELSE will guess) for who Inquisitor Marrok actually is!

You are most welcome to correct me or let me know who YOU think is most probable.

And just to challenge myself, I’m NOT putting Ezra. Because that would be too obvious.

1. Barriss Offee

I’m serious when I say that this is probably the most likely.

We know that she is a very important character in Ahsoka’s life, the writers could be trying to mislead us into thinking that the Force User is a man when really we have no confirmation that they are. Plus Dave Filoni has said in interviews that he refused to have the character make cameos just because he wanted to save her for later. Also, many people already speculated that Barriss became an Inquisitor after Order 66, explaining the double-sided Inquisitor lightsaber.

2. Darth Maul

Their build is a little too skinny for Darth Maul, and also wow, he must really be getting up there. And also, he died in Rebels. But when has that really ever stopped Disney from resurrecting him? I just think they should keep bringing him back. For the bit. I want the opening scroll for the upcoming Daisy Ridley movie to contain the words “Somehow, Darth Maul returned…”

3. Bo Katan

I highly doubt this because her character arc on the Mandalorian is already concluded, but I can kinda see her doing this as like, a side gig. Homegirl is probably broke from paying off Mandalore’s restoration fees. She’s not a Force User unfortunately, but when has that ever stopped her? I like to believe that Bo Katan simply woke up one day and decided to be Force Sensitive and it all kinda worked out for her somehow.

4. Lux Bonteri

If this is the option David Filoni is going with, BOOO. Yet another character who isn’t Force Sensitive. If you really think about it, Dave Filoni probably wants to include someone with an important history with Ahsoka, someone close to her that she held dear and that betrayed her and that she still has lingering feelings for.

Well actually that person is Barriss, and yknow, she kinda went MIA. Sooo the next best thing we could get is Lux, I guess!

5. Anakin (Force Ghost)

Daaaad, what are you doing here?

Well, the ghosts of Obi-Wan and Yoda told him to fuck off and get a job. So here he is. He’s putting in the work! He’s logging onto his Zoom! Ahsoka is gonna be sooo surprised when he finally takes off the mask and reveals it was him along. Just you wait! It’s gonna be so funny!

6. Korkie Kryze

Now we’re really starting to get big brained here.

In Legends, we have Jacen Solo. In the sequels, we have Kylo Ren.

But in the Brand New Republic era? Hark, a new villain arises. Korkie is embittered about being left behind and forgotten by his biological parents, Satine and Obi-Wan. And now he is out for revenge against all the Force Users and Mandalorians who abandoned him. Mwahahaha. We should’ve known he would turn out like this, he’s a ginger after all.

7. Ventress

This would technically make Dark Disciple non-canon? But I don't think Dave Filoni cares, considering he hilariously made the Ahsoka novel non-canon. Ventress is obviously very powerful and capable of dual-wielding and she would make a great candidate for an Inquisitor. Plus her and Morgan Elsbeth are both former Nightsisters so points for rapport.

8. Anakin’s Evil Clone

Hey, I mean Palpatine HAD to start somewhere, right? He didn’t just create Snoke without practice. I like to think he tried making a second Anakin at first, only to discover that Clonakin was a huge pain in the ass and doesn’t wanna follow orders just sit on the couch all day eating the space equivalent of Hot Cheetos.

9. Cal Kestis but he’s evil now

This one pretty much goes against everything we know about Cal but hey, I’ll take a live action Cal cameo any day now. I’ve been on the frontlines defending my babygirl Anakin since day one, don’t even try to lecture me about the ethics of stanning Darksider Cal.

9. Mara Jade

OK no more messing around!! I'm serious this time!

EVERYONE LISTEN CLOSELY!

I think the reason why Dave hasn't made any references to Eli, or Ar'alani, or Vahnya must be because he grew up on the 80s Legends trilogy (not the canon trilogy). Whenever Thrawn is mentioned, there is a direct reference to Heir to the Empire. The same novel where Mara Jade is introduced as the Hand of the Emperor. Coincidence? I think not! Obviously, this must be part of Dave Filoni's master plan to softlaunch the upcoming top secret Thrawn series adaptation.

10. Starkiller

My only real proof is that his name (Marek, Marrok) kinda sounds similar?

Making Starkiller canon would create a whole bunch of problems for the Star Wars timeline. I think his origin story is too Mary Sue-y for even Dave Filoni to try and integrate into current canon.

However, it would be interesting to see a showdown between Anakin's two former apprentices. Interesting, but unlikely.

And finally, for my last guess, I will tell you exactly who Marrok REALLY is. Kathleen Kennedy told me personally, so don't get mad at me! She said it, not me!

11. Luuke (the clone Palpatine made out of Luke's dismembered hand)

This is the ONLY correct answer.

Us Timothy Zahn enjoyers know that this was really Luuke all along. I told you, Snoke isn't the first clone that Palpatine made! I imagine he had a lot of downtime and got bored and decided to fuck around, and that's how we got Luuke.

And yes, I would cast Sebastian Stan to play him because I'm petty AF.

[illuminatedquill]

Sabine Wren

Tale As Old As Time

Story Summary: On a cool evening night on Peridea, Sabine and Ahsoka discuss the stories they wish to leave as their legacy.

Evening was falling; a cool breeze whispered through the Noti encampment to herald the coming dark.

Preparations had already been made to move the next morning. Sabine had come to appreciate the constant movement of the strange crab-like beings that had welcomed them into their company. It gave her a sense of purpose; something to focus on in the meantime while her master figured out their next move.

Huddled around the campfire, her belly full after a good dinner consisting of some spicy stew, Sabine listened to the chatter of the Noti around her and gazed into the luminous night sky above.

“It still amazes me, no matter how much I look at it,” said a familiar voice. Sabine turned to find her master, Ahsoka Tano, walking up to the campfire, Huyang close behind.

Sabine agreed. Many evenings on Lothal had provided her with a wondrous view of the stars but Peridea had it beat by a large margin.

Ahsoka sat down next to her Padawan with a slight huff. After a moment, the older Jedi asked, “Would you like to hear a story, Sabine?”

Sabine blinked. “Aren’t I a little too old for bedtime stories?”

“One is never too old,” Ahsoka chided, “to hear a good story, my Padawan.”

Huyang offered, “I have plenty to offer in that department, Lady Wren.”

Sabine considered that. “What kind of stories?” she asked.

“Tales of the Jedi, and their numerous exploits across the galaxy,” said Huyang.

Sabine’s eyebrows raised in astonishment. “I thought the Empire wiped out all stories of the Jedi. Or replaced it with their own propaganda.”

“Oh, they tried,” replied Ahsoka. “To their credit, they did do a thorough job of it. Most of the modern galactic citizens don’t know much about the Jedi at all, despite the purge happening fairly recently in our lifetime.”

She smiled a little. “But they couldn’t erase all of it. The Jedi existed for a millennium before the Empire. Their stories are written in the very fabric of the galaxy.”

“Are there stories about you, Master?”

Ahsoka laughed. “Oh, I’m sure. I traveled a fair amount back in my youth.”

Sabine looked to Huyang with a grin. “Are there any funny ones about her, Huyang?”

Huyang pondered for a moment before replying. “There is one where she had to pretend to be someone’s fiancée. It was with a boy named Lux, I believe-”

Ahsoka, embarrassment coloring her tone, interrupted him. “Okay, maybe not that one.”

Sabine’s grin turned mischievous. “Oh, did you have a crush on him, my master?”

Ahsoka crossed her arms and sighed. “It was complicated. Happened during the Clone Wars.”

“Oh.” Sabine dropped her teasing. “What happened to him?”

Ahsoka seemed to withdraw into herself. “I’m not sure. I heard rumors of his death during the Rebellion.”

Sabine felt a gentle sadness and regret pulsing out from her master. She decided to drop the subject.

“What kind of story would you like to be remembered for, Lady Tano?” asked Huyang.

Ahsoka blinked at the droid. “That’s quite the question, Huyang.”

“You’re a hero,” suggested Sabine. “You’ve helped so many. So maybe a heroic story.”

“Jedi don’t do this to be remembered, Sabine,” reminded Ahsoka. “We do it because it’s right.”

The older Jedi stared into the fire. “I’m not sure I want to be remembered at all,” she confessed. “I haven’t always done the right thing.”

Sabine said, “But you’ve always done the best you can. I’ve never seen you settle for anything less.”

It felt weird defending Ahsoka against herself. She had rarely seen her master be so unsure before.

Ahsoka smiled appreciatively at Sabine. “That’s true.”

She looked at Huyang. “I suppose that’s the story I’d like to be known for: someone who tried her best to help out.”

“Very appropriate,” observed Huyang. “I’ll keep that in mind for future reference, Lady Tano.”

The droid turned to Sabine. “And you, Lady Wren? When the time comes, what kind of story would you like to leave behind?”

Sabine blew out a breath. “I don’t know,” she admitted. “It’s still being written.”

“A good answer,” said Ahsoka. “You’ll have plenty of time to decide.”

“I would suggest a comedy,” offered Huyang.

Annoyed, Sabine flicked a pebble at the droid. It dinged on his metallic exterior, satisfyingly.

Ahsoka laughed. “Go ahead with a story, Huyang. There’s a funny one with Master Yoda, if I recall? When he spent time with the Wookies.”

“Ah, yes,” said Huyang, approvingly. “That is a good story.”

Ahsoka settled into a more comfortable position. Sabine followed suit, leaning in with interest.

“A long time ago,” started Huyang, “in a galaxy, far, far away . . .”

When the story was over, Ahsoka stood and stretched her back. “You’ll take first watch?” she asked Sabine.

Sabine nodded. “Sleep well, Ahsoka. Same to you, Huyang.”

Huyang replied, “As a reminder: I am droid, and therefore do not require sleep.”

She rolled her eyes. “I will throw a bigger rock at you next time,” Sabine promised.

After they left, Sabine took a stick and poked at the campfire. The Noti had retired to their huts; she was alone with her thoughts.

She leaned back and gazed into the star-lit night sky over her head.

When the time comes, what kind of story would you like to leave behind?

Sabine thought of her life so far; what had been lost and sacrificed.

Her mistakes and failures.

Should it be a tragedy? A cautionary tale for others?

As she brooded, the fire began to die out. Reaching out for another log to feed it, she paused.

“I don’t want to be a tragedy,” she said out loud.

She tossed the log into the campfire and it roared back to life. Sabine watched the glowing embers rise on the night breeze, drifting into the night sky like fiery petals.

She thought of home. Not Mandalore - but Lothal. Her loth-cat, Murley.

Kanan. Hera. Jacen. Zeb. Chopper.

My family. The names repeated in her head, over and over, like some sacred prayer.

And, of course, whenever it was darkest for her, she thought of him.

Sabine looked back into the fire, feeling it’s warmth flow into her.

Ezra filled her mind and, like the campfire, beat back the darkness. It was his constant gift to her; making the dark small.

When the time comes, what kind of story would you like to leave behind?

Sabine smiled. She had her answer.

Whispering, Sabine says it to herself, as though she was uttering a private, secret wish.

“A love story.”

[spacelesbiandisaster]

Remember that Onderon Rebel who tried that flirt with Ahsoka but she was way too distracted by Steela Gerrera?

No not Lux Bonteri, I'm talking about

There's one scene were Ahsoka is teaching the rebels how to neutralize Droidekas (that's ball droid that comes with plasma shields) with bomb's, and Lux is the first one to do it. He then proceeds to "teach" Steela how to do it by grabbing her arm and having this little romance moments.

Not sure if I'm explaining right, but the scene had this vibe:

Meanwhile Ahsoka is staring like her soul depends on it and Saw gets to her and its like

"Hey Commander Tano, how about you teach me how to do it?" Wink wink.

And Ahsoka does help him, but doesn't get close to touch Saw and instead just gave verbal instructions.

After that Steela actually got away from Lux and instead of go talk to her male love interest Ahsoka actually go after Steela to console her for not being able to destroy the droid in her first try and then they got a little moment was well.

I actually believe that this was the moment Ahsoka realized she liked girls by how quickly she lost interest in Lux and the way she doesn't even acknowledge Saw's attempt to flirt with her.

I didn't find any gifs or prints for the scene were Saw flirt with her, but I swear it happened! Go check on the episode if you want to, it's going to be there.

So we have Saw Looking at Commander Tano, who is look at his sister, who's looking at Lux Bonteri, who's looking at every single one of them because he just can't keep his hands to himself.

I thought that arc gave us a love triangle, but it actually gave us a love square! And that makes Anakin and Rex reactions to this teen love drama so much funny (the boys of the 501s are going to love hearing all about this).

Luckily for Saw, he seem to get over that very fast and by the end of the arc he isn't even looking at Ahsoka anymore. I guess he just got over the fact that his sister is the popular one of the family... (At least until she died)

[ahsokathegray]

I Bleed the Same || Thirty-Seven

Pairing: Rexsoka

Summary: Ahsoka and Rex try and make sense of who and what they are after Order 66 occurs. Figuring out what to do with themselves, they remain together for a period of time before parting in their own directions.

Warnings: slow burn, mentions of Order 66, ptsd, injury, death, and future nsfw situations

Word Count: 8,901

A/N: should I have split this into two chapters? probably. but I just couldn't and for good reason! anyway, I hope you all enjoy! I will return 9/12 since this was such a pivotal chapter and basically two updates in one lol ❤️

read on ao3! / series masterlist

There wasn’t a moment on the way back from Kashyyyk that Rex’s eyes left the two troopers on the floor. He sat beside Ahsoka, her wounded arm pressed tightly into his own while he kept his blasters pointed at the recovered clones. Saw’s team had gathered all of the binders used to enslave the Wookies, and so the troopers were bound before the jump to hyperspace was ever made. 

Each time they began to stir or make noise, Rex stunned them without hesitation, his jaw tight and fingers aching. 

Ahsoka lost track of how many times he had to sit there and do it. It tore at her heart, watching him have to put them, and himself, through it over and over again. But even the thought of allowing something else to happen to Ahsoka, especially at the hands of his brothers, was off the table for Rex. He’d do anything and everything necessary to ensure her safety. 

They arrived back on Nar Shaddaa and the rush had resumed as if it had never even taken pause. The injured were loaded onto hover-stretchers and raced to the medbay level. Lux’s ship had seen the loss of one fighter, but the rest were quickly escorted to seek medical attention even if they appeared to be otherwise fine. 

Numbers were precious these days. Everyone would be seen to. 

The two clones were promptly whisked away, steadily making their way further and further from where Rex and Ahsoka stood. There was a swarm of fighters in the hangar, waiting desperately to see if their loved ones had returned from the mission. 

“Hey!” Rex shouted, moving after the clones and pushing through the masses of people. “You can’t just take them like that! They need—” He stopped and frantically looked around for Ahsoka. She grabbed his hand, already standing right next to him, her other one holding onto her bicep. Stang. He leaned in and spoke only to her, “Come on, we need to get you up there.”

She nodded and he intertwined their fingers, starting to make a dent in the crowd and in the direction of the doors. The bacta and supplies on Bonteri’s ship had already been used up so there was nothing left for them to work with down here. 

Rex just hoped like hell that Saw’s medical facility had more supplies than the cafeteria had rations. 

All lifts were in use, so together they ascended the many flights of stairs, with Rex trying and failing to catch up with the troopers, shouting adamantly that they needed to be stunned or sedated as soon as possible. He refused to lose sight of both them or Ahsoka, but she trailed weakly behind him, keeping up only because he’d locked arms with her. There was quite a bit of blood on his cloak now from the pint she’d lost. He thought for sure that he’d have to carry her, but they’d made it successfully up to the correct floor. 

The fact that Ahsoka was walking at all was a good sign. 

This part of the building was also overflowing with fighters. Rex had caught a glimpse of the green armor of the first trooper that they’d rescued, stirring on his stretcher as his helmet was being removed.

Wading towards the doors, Rex finally reached them and tried to push past to get anyone to tend to Ahsoka’s wound. “She needs medical attention,” Rex pleaded over the many people talking, directing his request to whoever would listen. But the medics were all already preoccupied, tending to abrasions, removing tools from pouches, and assigning tasks to the medical droids. Either no one cared to listen, or they just hadn’t heard him in the midst of all the chaos. 

Rex made his way towards the two troopers, whose helmets had now been removed and set aside. He wanted to have known who they were… but their faces weren’t ones that he was familiar with. One of them had grays in his hair and the other looked as if he was starting to let his reg cut grow long.

The clone waking up was disoriented, squinting at the lights around him. It wasn’t long before his sights locked onto Ahsoka, and the speed at which his expression changed from one of confusion to one of pure rage was instantaneous. The corners of his eyes crinkled and his nostrils flared. “Traitor!” he snarled, “You’re both traitors!” He thrashed on his stretcher and began stretching his fingers for a blaster that wasn’t there. 

Two of Saw’s people rushed to his side and pinned him down, injecting something into the protruding vein on his neck. Despite not yet being awake, the clone beside him received the same treatment. His arm was clearly broken. 

With both clones now strapped to their stretchers, one of the medics turned to Rex and Ahsoka. “You two can’t be in here. You need to leave,” a Halaisi woman said sternly. 

“Ma’am, with all due respect, Ahsoka needs medical attention immediately. She’s already lost about a pint of blood,” he bit back harshly, forehead wrinkling in the way it did when he was frustrated. 

She looked Ahsoka up and down, as if she was expected to know who she was. Begrudgingly, the woman sighed and asked, “And the cause?” But it was clear that she’d already lost interest as she rummaged through a cabinet to retrieve more supplies. Ahsoka’s pale color meant nothing to her.

Rex carefully pushed the cloak over Ahsoka’s shoulder and presented her arm to the woman. “She was grazed by enemy fire. It wasn’t completely cauterized before it reopened once she was caught in an explosion.” He emphasized the last word to put more precedence on the severity of the situation. 

The fact that a nearby nurse droid was beginning to tend to the troopers gave him some relief, but Ahsoka needed care, too. Rex hoped he’d never be faced with such a heartbreaking ultimatum again, but if he had to choose, it would always be her life over theirs. Every single time. 

Sighing, the woman moved to the next patient on the floor, “Grazes are the least of our concern right now. You’ll have to come back later. We have more serious injuries to tend to for our own people. Now, please give us room to work.”

Curling his lip, Rex turned and hastily walked them back through the crowd of people. The woman had only been bothered to listen to half of what he had to say. “Let’s go. We’ve got some leftover supplies in our room,” he said, his voice much softer when he spoke to Ahsoka. He cleared a path for her, getting them through the swarm of people and holding her hand securely in his. Rex picked up the pace once they were clear of the medical wing and made for their quarters, finally able to access a lift. 

Ahsoka swallowed as they stepped in, the sterile fluorescents from the corridor slowly disappearing as the door slid shut. Her throat constricted and her heart began to race. Even the pulse in her lekku was noticeable now. Her mouth grew dry and palms sweaty. She stiffened where she stood, hyper-aware that her hand was still in Rex’s. 

Was it her hand that was clammy or was it his? Was she merely falling into delirium?

The tension in the confined space was thick. Ahsoka was almost convinced that if she tried to move, she wouldn’t be able to. Swallowing, she allowed herself to try and looked up at him, her montrals humming with how still the air was. 

Rex was faced forward, jaw clenched. He had assigned himself the mission of getting her wound tended to, blocking out anything that could distract him from completing that task. Her focus shifted back to the door, but she didn’t follow through, as Rex turned to face her. His eyes met hers. They had been hard and his features pinched, vibrating with irritation, but his gaze softened again as they found each other.

His throat bobbed and his lips parted to say something, but the lift dinged and the doors reopened. He flexed his free hand. Stepping back out into the brightly lit hallway, Rex led them to the right and squeezed her hand reassuringly in the process. 

With their door now in front of them, Ahsoka remembered the last thing she’d said to him before they left the comfort of the hideously decorated walls. Rex pressed a panel button and their door slid aside, his hand falling from hers and situating himself behind her to see Ahsoka into the bedroom. His hands came to rest atop her shoulders now as he guided her to the bench at the foot of the bed, helping her sit. 

Only once that task was complete did she realize how weak she felt.

“One moment. I'll be right back,” Rex said, flicking on a small lamp and then disappearing into the refresher. Ahsoka heard the sink water turn on and she began looking around at the details of their room. It was exactly as they’d left it, not a single thing out of place. The dust hadn’t moved in years and continued to stay undisturbed in their absence. The suite was quiet and dimly lit, but shone so blindingly with the memory of how they’d left it. 

Going on the mission had acted as a brief distraction, but it all came rushing back to her now. There was no doubt in her mind that Rex had to be thinking about it as well.

As promised, he returned moments later with a basin filled with warm water. He set it down and then tugged on the cloak fabric that still hung around her shoulders. She shifted and helped him remove it, shivering as the material that smelled like him was lost and placed beside her. Ahsoka gripped the edge of the bench, trying to take away any trace of the pain that would soon be shooting up her bicep while Rex rifled through their med packs.

The supplies they had left would do the job perfectly, but he wanted to scoff. They’d proved, ten times over, that they were just as much Saw’s people as the rest of the fighters were. And if they hadn’t had these supplies in their bags, then… 

Rex met her eyes briefly before turning to the injury on her arm. He took the sleeve of her jumpsuit and rolled it up over her shoulder, exposing more of the skin. Ahsoka held her breath.

The bandage he’d crafted out of fabric from his cloak had long outserved its purpose, successfully stopping the bleeding but doing nothing to heal it. He was just thankful that her face held a bit more color than it did on the way back to base. Kneeling and placing his hands near the makeshift bandage, Rex looked up to find her wide eyes once more. “I’m going to take this off now. You tell me when to stop and I’ll stop,” he informed her, seeing the hurt etched into her features. 

She exhaled and nodded, “I’m ready when you are.”

With gentle hands, Rex began to untie the knot he’d made and slowly unraveled the strip of cloak fastened around her arm. Ahsoka closed her eyes, trying to keep her focus on the way his touch sent electricity through her body instead of the pain that slowly crept down into her fingers. She strained, trying to keep her breaths even, pressing her lips into a thin line as Rex continued. 

“I can stop,” Rex reminded her and paused, his breath ghosting across her bare shoulder. 

Ahsoka shook her head, jaw tight. “No. Keep going,” she said, clamping her mouth shut once the words had been said. 

He was hesitant to continue, but did so anyway, unraveling the last bit of blood soaked fabric and tossing it aside. The poorly cauterized wound had collected dirt and debris. Thankfully, the majority of the bleeding had ceased on the return trip, but would’ve looked better had it not been so irritated. 

Rex sighed, mentally reprimanding himself for allowing this to happen. How was Ahsoka supposed to trust him if he couldn’t protect her from harm? He shucked his gloves, pulling them off at the finger. Silently, he reached for a small cloth and hooked two fingers into it, dipping it into the basin. He shook off the excess water and repositioned himself on one knee. 

“This is going to hurt,” he warned softly, looking up at her as he took hold of her arm below the elbow. 

She only nodded, unable to conjure any more words with the way he looked kneeled in front of her. Ahsoka was well accustomed to field injuries and it was a miracle she didn’t get hurt more as a Padawan, but she knew the sting that was coming. Rex pressed the cloth on the surrounding area first, cleaning from the outside in. She hissed at the contact, her hand shooting up to cover his. He stopped immediately and she was met with golden eyes, swimming with concern. 

“Sorry,” she said. “You can keep going.”

He waited for her hand to settle back over her knee and her posture to relax before he continued. In truth she really wasn’t that bad off, but in Rex’s eyes, her being hurt in any capacity called for urgent care. He worked diligently, letting up if she sucked in a breath a certain way and waited for her exhale before moving again. 

Ahsoka bit her cheek and watched him from under her lashes, finding that his expression was pained. The inner part of his brows were turned upwards and the color of his eyes desaturated. She knew that look well. “Rex.”

His hand stilled at the sound of her calling his name and he just stared at the abrasion on her arm before giving her his full attention. One look into her eyes and his shoulders slumped. 

“You couldn’t have done anything. Neither could I,” Ahsoka assured him in a hushed voice. 

She could read him better than herself at times. Even if Rex didn’t admit that he felt as though he’d failed her or that he was personally responsible for her injury, she already knew. His eyes said everything. They swirled with intense emotions and they always gave his true feelings away. It was only until recently that she’d discovered just how honest they’d been this entire time. 

Sighing and turning away from her, he responded, “I could’ve done something. I shouldn’t have trusted Bonteri to stay with you. I should’ve known there was more than just the one trooper in the trees.” The guilt and disgust in his voice was unmistakable. 

The boys were nothing if not intelligent. Of course another camouflaged trooper had been taking cover in the brush as a reinforcement — just as the men of the 332nd had been waiting for them in the hangar… He wondered how many more men there had been on Kashyyyk that they just hadn’t been able to spot. If it really was the 41st corps — and he was certain that it was — they lived up to their reputation. 

“Rex, I don’t blame you,” Ahsoka whispered.

“But you should. And I wouldn’t blame you if you did. You have every right.”

She placed a gentle hand on top of his broad shoulder, “We couldn’t have known the other one was out there. We only spotted the one. Besides, I’m happy to take on any injury if it means we rescue even a single clone.”

He looked up at her, tears threatening to spill. “Ahsoka, how can I call myself your Captain if I can’t protect you?”

Rex shook his head, but before he could turn away from her again, Ahsoka cupped his cheek in her palm. Instinctively, her thumb moved back and forth over the bone, providing him comfort. It’s what she wished she would’ve done in the hangar control room of the Tribunal those many moons ago. Smiling softly, Ahsoka continued, “Rex, you stopped being my Captain the moment that order was given. If there’s anyone left in this galaxy who will protect me, it's you. I trust you with my life and more.”

She felt him lean into her touch and relax, no longer seeking to turn away from her but turning closer. The end of the war and so much loss had caused them to temporarily lose sight of their capabilities. Even in the face of such a successful mission — finding not one clone, but two, and bringing them in — hadn’t been enough to heal the holes in their hearts. They were terrified to celebrate, terrified to get their hopes up out of fear of taking yet another devastating blow. Instead, Rex focused on the graze Ahsoka had sustained rather than the healthy status of his men, not allowing himself to relax until she was tended to. 

“Rex, look at everything we’ve accomplished. These two men, possibly the one on Daro, Clone Force 99, Echo, Saw, the Martez sisters, even Bail. All of these ripples we’ve made have finally amounted to a wave of victory. And this?” she glanced down at her arm. “Once we get bacta on this, it’ll be healed by morning. I’ve taken on worse. You remember Jabiim.”

As soon as she said the planet’s name, those first days of being on the run came so clearly back to mind. They weren’t alone anymore. Where they once knew the very minimum, they now knew more than they could’ve possibly imagined — more than they sometimes wanted to. They weren’t sleeping on the ground, but rather in a bed… one they shared. And she once again had an injury that Rex was tending to. 

Of course Rex remembered Jabiim. He’d never forget. Her lekku flushed and Ahsoka was silently thankful that just a single lamp illuminated the room. 

“I do,” he said, looking into her eyes and undoubtedly remembering the events that took place there. Rex cleared his throat, flipping the cloth and dipping his fingers into the warm water. “I won’t allow anything to bring you harm ever again. Not while I’m still around and breathing,” he spoke confidently, dabbing her wound. “I swear to you, Ahsoka.”

She tilted her head and silently watched him clean her arm until he was finished. He produced a bacta patch and opened it with his teeth, coming to sit beside her on the bench and secure it to her bicep. 

Rex’s breath fanned across her collarbones and her own breathing halted, trapped in her lungs. His touch was gentle as he centered the patch over her graze mark. Once it was applied, he carefully pressed it down and Ahsoka found herself somewhat disappointed that they’d reached the end of all this. 

But Rex didn’t pull away. His touch didn’t part from her. Instead, his hands drifted down the length of her arms, the backs of his fingers caressing her supple skin the way he had the morning they’d left. 

His heart was stuck in his throat, wanting to say what he was thinking but unable to get the words out. “‘Soka,” he managed, feeling the thrum of his pulse everywhere. His touches stopped at her wrist, taking and holding her hand in both of his. Again, his lips parted and Ahsoka felt her skin start to burn, lit aflame with the anticipation of what she knew he wanted to say. Her heart threatened to beat out of its cage as his warm eyes enveloped hers. “I need you to know that—”

But the door to their quarters slid aside and the light from the hallway flooded the suite, erasing the mood set from the single lamp that Rex had turned on. Both of them snapped their heads to see what had happened only to find Lux Bonteri standing in the doorway. 

“Gerrera wants to see you both in his office,” he said, looking down at the nonexistent space that separated Ahsoka from Rex. 

The pair hastily stood and met him at the door. “We’re debriefing already? There’s still fighters in the medbay,” Rex reasoned, annoyed that he and Ahsoka had yet again been cut short from the words that had weighed on their hearts for too long. 

Lux ran a hand through his greasy hair. “This is just us,” he stated simply, his voice changing in tone.

So this wasn’t a debrief, then. Rex looked at Ahsoka and they both seemed to agree what this was about to lead to. He waited and let her pass through the door ahead of him, then wedged in front of Bonteri before the rakeweed could slot himself between them. 

Rex’s blood was boiling over the lanky coward leading them down the hall. It took everything in him not to say what he really felt right that moment. It was bad enough just knowing how he’d treated Ahsoka in the past, but Rex had gained yet another reason to detest the boy. He was sure to bite his tongue clean off for how tightly he had to hold it between his teeth. 

“What’s this about, Lux? What’s he want with us?” Ahsoka asked, looking distantly down the corridor instead of at him. 

“I don’t know,” he answered, “But it didn’t sound like it was going to be too good.” Ahsoka chose not to respond and yet Bonteri took that as his cue to keep speaking. “You fought great out there, Ahsoka. I saw you with those two blasters. I think we made a pretty great team against those raiders.”

That was it. That was the line that set Rex over the edge. How dare he?

Rex’s lip quivered and he stopped dead in his tracks, fingers curling into fists. “You do not get to say that to her,” he seethed. “I asked you to keep watch at her side and what did you do? You turned your back on Ahsoka and allowed her to sustain an injury that could’ve very well taken her life! If you were a good team at all, you have only her to thank for that. You’re lucky that she, or any others on our side, weren’t killed at the hands of your stupidity.” 

Lux’s eyes were round with fear, leaning back as Rex towered over him, nearly walking him backwards into a wall. He hadn’t been afraid of the clone on Onderon, nor had he been afraid of him on Kashyyyk, but he was now. He’d seriously underestimated, not just the Captain, but the clones as individuals. 

Rex stepped away, collecting himself and reeling his anger back in, glowering at the kid as he returned to Ahsoka’s side. Her expression held no sympathy for Lux. 

Bonteri brushed himself off and continued walking. He’d heard how the clones really were that loyal to their Jedi, but there was something more about the way that Rex was loyal to Ahsoka. 

He was dedicated to her. 

They reached Saw’s office to find the man that had summoned them standing in front of the windows again, staring up at the dark clouds swallowing the moon. “Close the door behind you,” he instructed, not bothering to look at who had even come in.

Lux did just that as Rex and Ahsoka walked the rest of the way to meet him. But Saw didn’t begin until his Lieutenant fell in line beside them. “It has come to my attention that one of the Separatist tanks was left operational after it had been reported neutralized. Ahsoka, you told me you recognized the last one you saw, and the raiders inside as the same ones you’d encountered earlier.” 

Why was Saw repeating back to her what she’d told him on the ship? She and Rex shared an apprehensive look. He didn’t seem to know any more than she did. 

“Is that right?” he asked, finally turning to face them all. 

“Yes. But why–”

“And it was that same tank that went after you and wound up costing me a speeder bike,” he continued. 

Ahsoka nodded, “That’s correct.”

Saw’s gaze shifted from her to Lux. “How unfortunate that this was the case. That my own Lieutenant reported directly to me that this tank had been blown to hell like the rest. If it had not been for Ahsoka and Captain Rex here, our people or even the Wookies, could have been caught in the crossfire and killed as a consequence,” he said, voice eerily level. “Would you like to tell me, Bonteri, why you gave me false numbers?”

His eyes went round yet again, wider than they’d just been in the corridor. Bonteri began to stutter, tripping over his words. “Saw, look it— Look, it was chaos out there and I didn’t— I didn’t have but one detonator, and—”

“You let the enemy catch you with one detonator on hand and you screw it up? All you had to do was attach it to the tank!” Saw bit back, his tone completely shifting. 

Ahsoka’s brows knit together. “Lux, I thought you did blow it up. I heard it as I drove away in the transport.”

Rex hadn’t blinked. He was glaring at Lux with enough intensity to send a gundark running. 

Lux looked down at his boots to evade the three sets of eyes trained on him. “I thought I could do what we were shown on Onderon and I missed the shot… And then when it didn’t blow up completely, I thought we might be able to bring it back here. We’re lacking that level of firepower,” he revealed. 

“Bonteri, this was not— Look at me when I’m talking to you,” Saw raised his voice, causing Lux’s head to snap up to attention. “This was hardly the mission to pull a stunt like that! I’ll decide what weaponry we need and I’ll go through the right channels to do it. I ought to turn you loose right now and I would if I didn’t desperately need the people. This will be your first and only mistake. Do I make myself clear?”

“Crystal,” he answered curtly.

Saw looked his Lieutenant up and down with restrained anger. Ahsoka was surprised. He’d acted more rashly on Onderon. They didn’t know what to expect with him. It was chilling almost to see him this calm. The man before them was a loose cannon and not so easily predictable. But then Ahsoka put it together. Saw treated Bonteri a certain way because of the way that Steela had felt about him.

Sighing, Gerrera continued, “You’ll be solely on transmission duty until I decide otherwise. I can’t in good conscience allow you on any more missions right now.”

“That’s not—”

“Do not interrupt me when I am speaking!” Saw lashed, causing Bonteri to go silent. “Now go before I change my mind and demote you.”

Lux hung his head as he left the office, trudging back down the halls. Neither Rex nor Ahsoka watched him leave. They felt no remorse. He’d almost cost them the entire mission. But at the same time, they held themselves steady, preparing for whatever Saw had kept them behind for.

Rex cleared his throat, “Saw, with all due respect, why did you call us in here?”

The man in front of them still looked vexed, but his posture changed. He turned and walked towards the floor to ceiling windows, leaning against one of the beams. “It seems I owe you both an apology. I can’t say I’m too thrilled about the clones being here, but my contact told me you both did quite a bit of damage back there. Saved our asses from a problem one of my fighters created,” he revealed, referring to the incident he’d just sent Lux away for. 

So neither of the clones they’d recused had been Saw’s informant. Rex looked at Ahsoka from the corner of his eye, both of them deciding to keep that bit of information to themselves.

“You shouldn't have had to, but you proved yourselves out there. The galaxy we thought we knew has shown its true colors and it’s good to know that the two of you weren’t a part of that. I’m just sorry you got mixed up in it. We have to be careful who we decide to trust these days,” Saw said. “I just did what I thought she would have.” He didn’t say Steela’s name, but he didn’t need to.

“We…” Rex started, remembering how they’d been treated upon entering Saw’s facility for the first time. “We would have done similar. Protecting the ones we love, blood relation or not, is above all else now.”

“It is,” Saw agreed, looking between the two of them and drawing his own conclusions. He knew how Rex had stuck his neck out for Ahsoka and his brothers both. “Your men will be treated with the utmost care my people can provide.”

Rex gave him a curt nod. “Thank you, Saw.”

The man shrugged his shoulders. “You’ll be able to visit them after tonight. And I’ll tell my men downstairs to allow you access to free use of your comms. From now on, you’ll both be expected to go on missions applicable to your skill sets. But no need to worry, I wouldn’t dream of separating you. You're more valuable as a unit. Otherwise, you’re dismissed, but before you go,” his eyes flicked to Rex when he said the latter part. “I’m gonna need you to ditch the clone armor. Even with a cloak, those troopers were able to easily identify you. Hell, the whole galaxy knows what that fucking armor looks like.”

Saw was right. This was a change that has been severely overdue. Rex and Ahsoka weren’t just doing recon missions and slipping around in the shadows anymore. His attire needed to match their new way of life. As attached to his armor as he was, he’d need to store it away for now.

“Understood, sir,” Rex said.

“Go. I want it done now. I’ll see you both at the debriefing tomorrow.”

The evening air whipped between Ahsoka’s montrals and picked up her lekku as they tore through the city streets on a single BARC speeder bike. Thunder rumbled above, the stars disappearing as another storm rolled in. Ahsoka pressed her face into Rex’s cloak and held onto him around the waist as he maneuvered them through the district. 

She’d wanted nothing more than to return to their quarters after being in Saw’s office to finally address what they both longed to say. But she couldn’t complain. What was just an hour more if she’d already waited this long? Ahsoka nuzzled closer into Rex’s armored back, too eager to be pressed against him without it on the way back to base. She relaxed into him, feeling the wind and the night air on her skin, peeking her eyes open to get a glimpse of the shining city and the billow of her and Rex’s cloaks as one. 

He stopped them near the outskirts of town, tucking their bike away in a spot hidden from passersby. The thrusters powered down and Ahsoka reluctantly peeled herself away from him. He brought up the coordinates to the shop that the fighter had provided them with and opted to take off his helmet. Saw’s concern was valid, they didn’t know what ill intended slime was slithering in these back alleys or anywhere else for that matter.

Another round of thunder boomed above them, a warning that the storm was creeping closer. They were running on borrowed time if they didn’t want to get caught in it.

“I didn’t realize how much blood I’d gotten on your cloak,” Ahsoka observed, pulling up her hood as they began to walk towards the abandoned shop. 

Rex did the same and shot her a playful smile, “Ahsoka, I know you’re not about to apologize for bleeding on me.”

She laughed at that and shook her head, “Thank you for helping me, again. It seems without my lightsabers, I’m a much easier target.”

“I’ll always help you,” he promised, the corners of his lips tugging up into that lopsided grin, “And if you were an easy target, we’d still be on Kashyyyk right now and not in this pleasant neighborhood.”

Ahsoka didn’t let her mind linger over the visual of her and Rex cold and stiff on Kashyyyk long before she changed the topic. “So what do you think about our two troopers?”

His eyebrows shot up as considered her question. Despite sitting across from them the entire return trip to Nar Shaddaa, it still didn’t feel as if they’d actually brought them in. “I guess I haven’t allowed myself to think about it too much. I mean, my main concern is getting those chips out. That’s priority number one and we don’t know if Saw’s got the ability to do that kind of operation back at the compound.”

“Well,” Ahsoka thought aloud. “It was once home to a very wealthy Dowutin Senator. I’m sure the medical facility is much more grandiose than what we saw.”

“Good point. And I know, I saw those photos and letters you were looking through the other night. It definitely explains the size of our bed and the neck support of those pillows,” he teased, shooting her a wink. “Could you read any of that? I couldn’t but I also couldn’t figure out why a Dowutin Senator was on Nar Shaddaa in the first place.”

Ahsoka laughed, her lekku darkening underneath her hood at him calling it their bed. “No, I could only make out a few words. I keep wondering if— I mean, there's the photos and then this separate box of letters, if... Well, Dowutins aren’t native to this planet.”

Rex cleared his throat, knowing the box in which she spoke of, “They’re not.”

She looked at him, noticing the tinge of pink in his face. “You saw the other letters I’m talking about, didn’t you?”

“I did,” he answered.

“Do you think that the Senator and her partner ran away to come here together?” Ahsoka asked, her heart hammering in her chest.

“I do.”

Ahsoka saw the way that his eyes sparkled and she looked up at the dark sky. Perhaps sometime in the past, this planet had been less seedy and corrupt. Perhaps sometime in the future, she and Rex would do something similar to what the Dowutin couple had. She cleared her throat and turned to face him again, “So how far away is the destination?”

Rex checked their datapad. “About ten minutes up ahead. We’ll be able to slip through back roads for the most part, but it’s a bit of a maze through here. Some of the streets with more foot traffic, we won’t be able to avoid.” 

They maneuvered silently through the city limits, moving steadily inward. More people were popping up and the sounds of life increased. Upbeat music began to thrum in their chests and the shadows lessened. Before they knew it, they turned a corner, making it to one of the more populated streets on the city’s edge. They’d been apprehensive to run into a crowd like this, but it was impossible to fight off the infectious joy of the citizens. For a planet ripe with pirates and outlaws, Ahsoka couldn’t help but view it in a new perspective. 

She and Rex weren’t much different than them anyway, seeing as they were fugitives of the Empire. 

Lights in all colors were hung from one end of the street to the other, lining the rails of homes and shops. A Pa’lowick woman could be heard singing from inside a bar. Many people were playing instruments outside and all kinds of food was being served. The first raindrops had begun to sprinkle down on them and Ahsoka held up her hand to catch them in her palm, but the people in the street didn’t seem to care or even notice. She shared a small smile with Rex, but they remained on guard, pressing past the festivities and on towards the next alleyway. 

Before they could slip away unnoticed however, Ahsoka saw something tall and white flash past her from the corner of her eye. She slowed, looked around momentarily but found nothing, allowing Rex to continue leading the way. 

“Everything alright?” he asked.

“Yes. I think,” she replied. “I thought I saw something but I guess not.”

Rex noticed the indecisiveness in her features and scanned the buildings that surrounded them. They’d just reached the most abandoned part of the city. Any noise they heard now was a noise to be concerned about. “Just a little bit further now,” he updated, turning another corner.

Again, the sky roared, the pattering of rain becoming more frequent. She didn’t like this. They needed to be able to hear and the weather was going to complicate that. The unmistakable crunch of glass then filled the air and Ahsoka peered through the squat, empty building next to her, seeing clean through it to the other side. In a swift motion, Rex’s helmet was donned and his blaster pulled. 

Slowing her breathing, Ahsoka tried to concentrate on the world around her. She closed her eyes and focused on her center, moving past the weather, past the celebrations happening nearby, past the rodents chittering in the shadows. The Force was opening for her. 

Her eyes shot open. “We need to run. Now,” she said, her legs taking her as fast as they could in the direction that Rex’s map pointed to. He matched her strides, not knowing what they were running from but not wanting to find out either. 

He could hear the footsteps now and if that was possible over this weather, then their pursuer was too close. The rain began to come down harder, splattering off of his armor and splashing at their feet. The way ahead came in a blur, their path colliding with several sheets of rain, going directly into the storm. Their pursuer wasn’t letting up, and if they didn’t take a turn soon, they’d lead them right to their destination. 

Ahsoka saw the flash of white again, accompanied by a tall antenna. She swallowed just as Rex pulled her down a narrow alley, weaving them through the maze of buildings. Even though she knew Rex was leading the enemy astray, she couldn't keep track of all of his turns. But she supposed that was the point in the case of their curious friend.

The rain had picked up, soaking them to the bone. Whether they were successful or not in losing who or whatever was tailing them, the rain seemed to have finished the job. Rex pulled out his datapad and checked to make sure he’d traversed the area correctly. He had. They were just one alleyway over from where they needed to be. 

Footsteps sounded nearby and Rex pulled Ahsoka with him into a hidden alcove. He held her close to him, concealing them in the concave doorway and shielding her with his body. The pale, slender woman slowed when coming upon where they’d taken shelter, but quickly ran off in the opposite direction. 

Ahsoka looked up at Rex through rain-beaded lashes, watching the water streak down the visor of his helmet. She raised her hands to remove it, pulling it off to look at the man underneath. Rex’s gaze was focused on her lips and his eyes flicked up to meet hers when the bucket was gone, but not as if he’d been caught, rather as if it was exactly where he wanted to be found. They stared deeply into the other as their chests heaved, minds already taken off of the fading threat. 

If anyone had been around to witness them, they might’ve said that the pair looked lost, staring absently with baited breath as they tried to remain hidden. But that couldn’t have been farther from the truth. 

And there was now no one around but them. 

Whoever was following them could’ve been gone for several minutes now, but time felt as if it belonged only to them, like it had stopped completely. Ahsoka blinked the rain away, the water trailing down her cheeks. Rex was quick to catch it, his strong hand coming to cradle her jaw, thumb swiping the droplet away and into her skin. His fingers hooked into the dip where her lekku met her face and Ahsoka’s breathing hitched, feeling his bare knuckles graze the skin. 

It was only then that she realized when he’d shucked his gloves in the bedroom, that he’d never put them back on. His touch was a sensation she’d never get used to and hoped that she never would.

She half expected Rex to pull away now that they’d lost the enemy, but Ahsoka knew that wasn’t where this was going.

“Ahsoka,” he whispered, the sound of her name just audible over the pouring rain. His thumb continued the motions on her cheek, running over her markings and caressing the supple skin. Rex’s fingers drifted downward, along her lekku and then pressing gently against her neck.

Swallowing, Ahsoka watched him as he did so. He broke eye contact, glancing over his shoulder. Quickly, he retrieved their datapad from his belt once again to look at the map. It was over too soon. “I actually think this might be a second entrance,” he said, pointing at the marked spot.

It looked like he was right. Ahsoka stepped aside and, sure enough, the building was marked with the same set of numbers that Saw’s fighter had given them. This was where everyone else had found luck in getting clothes without venturing too far into the city limits.

Once inside, Ahsoka pressed herself against the wall and her fingertips into the duracrete. Again, she inhaled deeply and filled her lungs with the life breathing around her. They were in the clear. She placed Rex’s borrowed blaster back in her hostler and he did the same, his shoulders relaxing and a sigh escaping his lips. Leaning her head back, Ahsoka caught his eyes and they laughed, something amusing about things never really changing for them. 

Yet again, they were reminded of Jabiim. 

Their drenched and heavy cloaks were discarded on the floor in a dark heap and as they stepped away from the entrance, surveying the room. The Partisans insignia was spray painted on the adjacent wall and crates lined the main room, separated into categories for easy ransacking. 

Ahsoka held her arms, the wet clothing making the air seem chilly. Her fingertips brushed her bacta patch and it was only then that she realized she didn’t feel the sting anymore. It was soaked but nothing could keep it from healing now. Her jumpsuit, on the other hand, could’ve been wrung out to fill the basin that Rex was using earlier. 

She looked down at the legs of it, the excess material leaving a trail of water wherever she stepped. Ahsoka hadn’t exactly been the one sent here for new clothes, but what could it hurt? It wasn’t like the jumpsuit was suitable for missions anyway. It worked fine, but she could find something better. Ahsoka pressed her tongue into her cheek, wondering if the cut of the pants legs was what made her an easy target. 

Rex was on the other side of the room already, lifting tops off of crates. He had no idea what he was doing. Of course, he’d had other clothing items besides his armor, but they’d all been armor adjacent. Looking at all of these options and picking a new look wasn’t what Rex would’ve ever considered as a challenge, yet here he was, feeling like he was picking a new identity entirely. 

In some way, he was.

Ahsoka moved somewhere behind him and he turned his head, finding the top half of her jumpsuit had been relocated around her waist. The little blue shirt she wore underneath was soaked too, showing the barest hint of skin of her midriff below the hem. He swallowed and looked away, the last morning they’d spent together springing to mind. 

She was already pulling a pair of green pants from a crate and holding them up to herself when she felt Rex’s gaze. His ears grew hot and he averted his eyes, turning back towards his crate and trying not to think about the sound of Ahsoka’s clothes hitting the floor. 

Seeming to notice the issue he was having, Ahsoka came to stand next to him. “I don’t think you’re going to find a new set of blacks in there,” she smiled. “Let’s see.”

Rex helped her rifle through the articles of clothing, picking things up and tossing them, none of the choices feeling like him at all or else not being well suited enough for the field. He looked at the pile that Ahsoka had begun to accumulate. None of it looked like anything he’d even consider wearing, but the smile on her face would make them difficult to veto.

“Ahsoka,” Rex sighed as she picked up a shirt in a repulsive shade of green. 

She laughed, “What? I think it would look good on you. You don’t like this color?”

He hoped she was joking. “Not in that shade,” he clarified, eyes drifting down to her legs. 

Her lekku warmed as she realized what he did like. She cleared her throat, picking from the pile she’d collected, “Okay, what about purple?”

“Purple?” he repeated, wincing at the shirt she held out to him. He also noticed that almost nothing in her arms had matched. 

“Come on, Rex. There’s a bit of white too, just like your armor,” she tried.

He took it just to appease her. “My armor stopped being white years ago,” he returned, shooting her that half-dimpled smile.

Ahsoka laughed and rolled her eyes, going back to finish looking for herself. In no time at all, she was able to find a complete outfit, new boots, and vambraces. She adjusted the bands on her biceps and the new headdress, even fitting her holster back onto her leg, and finding a few more things for Rex. A different navy shirt was tugged over her montrals and she moved her lekku to sit over the patterned fabric, reaching behind her to attempt fastening the clasps. 

She turned to ask Rex for his assistance, under the impression that he was still looking for options. But when she did, she found him with his bare back facing her, the shirt she’d given him slung over his shoulder while he buttoned a pair of pants she’d picked out. 

Her lips parted, eyes unblinking as her attention was drawn to the ink in his skin. 

Rex reached for his shirt, pulling it from its place over his shoulder to put on when he saw Ahsoka out of his periphery. His entire body stiffened and became aflame with heat, the place where his neck met his back burning in a shape that they both recognized. His features dropped and his jaw fell slack. 

She’d seen it.

Rex immediately stood upright with a rarely seen look of fear painting his face. He didn’t even try to hide the ink now. There was nothing that hiding it could do. Rex cursed himself and wasted no time in crossing the room, coming to stand in front of her and deliver her the apology she deserved. “No. No, Ahsoka,” he whispered, “I’m so sorry I didn’t tell you sooner. I had the opportunity so many times and should’ve taken it the first chance it presented itself. When you left, nothing felt the same. I’d never had to grieve a living person and you were the first. You’ve been every one of my firsts. I got it done as a reminder of the impact you had on my life and never once did I expect it would hold the deeper meaning that it has now.”

Ahsoka was speechless, her eyes pouring into his as she listened to every word. He needed her to say something… anything at all. Even if she decided that she hated him, it would be better to hear it than be met with this deafening silence. 

She blinked and looked down briefly at his chest and the large scar across it, placing a steady hand underneath and stepping as close to him as she could. Orange, nimble fingers trailed upward and Rex watched her intently as she did so. She traced his clavicle and dipped over his shoulder, moving her touch to where the white ink was situated on his back — where her facial markings were on his skin. 

“‘Soka, this… When I told you I needed you to know something, I wasn’t just talking about this… I’m not going to let myself get caught dying without telling you how in love with you I am and that I have been since you came back,” Rex pleaded, his voice breaking.

Ahsoka’s glittering blue eyes looked like they might shed tears. His chest tightened, knowing she felt the same yet doubting himself anyway. Her tongue darted out to wet her lips and her frantic heart finally calmed. “You’re not the only one. I have loved you from the very same moment,” she breathed, her other hand coming to rest behind his neck. 

Rex closed the distance between them. One of his hands covering her hip and the other sliding under her rear lek, causing her to gasp. He walked them backwards into the crate behind her, leaning his head down while Ahsoka tilted her chin upwards. 

And just as she did, they heard a noise up on the roof. The rain had stopped. Those were footsteps. Quickly, they parted and Rex threw their belongings into two bags, tugging the shirt over his head. He pulled on the boots he’d found and Ahsoka tossed his other items into the bag with his armor. 

Together, they slipped out the second entrance and took an alternate route back to the bike, ducking under maintenance vehicles and under clotheslines. The bounty hunter was hot on their heels and exactly who Ahsoka thought her to be. 

Aurra Sing had her rifle drawn, a look of disdain across her face. Ahsoka didn’t think she’d been recognized. The infamous Palliduvan would’ve been calling her by name otherwise, hell bent on killing her for what she’d done in the past. This was because of Rex’s armor. Saw had been right. 

The Force surged through her veins once more, alive and at her disposal, but their survival hinged on not using it. Rex pulled her down a series of alleyways, some of them familiar from earlier, before they happened upon their bike. Ahsoka handed the bags to Rex and he secured them to the borrowed speeder, tearing out of the hiding spot and back onto the streets. Pressing herself into Rex, Ahsoka didn’t dare look back and risk her identity being compromised. She hugged him tight and closed her eyes, relaxing into him and feeling only Rex and not the armor that had separated them. 

Ahsoka could let herself breathe knowing they’d lost Sing for now. Force, she could breathe now that she’d finally said it — that they’d both finally said it.

They entered the lower levels of the compound once more, pulling the speeder bike into the hangar. She and Rex were quiet as they stepped off, feeling as if the freedom fighters on watch somehow knew what had just transpired between them. 

Rex insisted on carrying both bags, the one with his armor and the one with their drenched clothes, but Ahsoka managed to get him to let her carry the latter one. Silently, they made their way through the doors and into the corridor where the lifts were situated. Rex pushed the button to call one down. So many people had been down here just a short while earlier with not enough lifts to fit them all. 

The mechanism dinged and the doors parted, so they stepped inside and stood shoulder to shoulder, entered their floor number, and watched as the doors closed once more. 

Ahsoka’s chest still felt heavy, the tension in the lift having increased tenfold from what it was before. A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. The bag in her hands swayed and she set it down, having no trouble convincing herself to move this time around. She turned to Rex, intentions clear in her relieved eyes. 

But he was already looking at her — already on the same wavelength that she was. It was like the switch that had been half flipped for both of them had now finally fallen into place. Ahsoka took one step towards him and Rex dropped his bag at their feet, his hands taking their placements from earlier on her hip and under her jaw. They breathed in each other’s air and their laughs came out in breaths, just taking each other in one last time before their relationship changed forever. 

Except it had already changed long before and they both knew it. Back when the galaxy was still good and the only thing that stood between them was a set of blast doors. 

Rex dipped his head and their eyes fluttered shut, lips delicately brushing against one another before finally meeting in a searing kiss.

[seeking-elsewhither]

To be fair, Lux is a teenage boy whose mom was just murdered on the orders of someone he and a lot of people looked up to, so he's not exactly in a good headspace to be thinking things through.

Ah, yeah, now that you mention it anon, I see that.

He parallels Boba Fett that way, but where Boba was visibly fuming clouds of smoke, Lux seemed calm and composed. Perhaps that's why I judged him too harshly.

Also by the fact that he's taking these decisions mostly by himself.

I want to know where his support system is. Boba had Aurra Sing and the other bounty hunters looking after him (questionable, yeah, but it was there since Jango made sure his son would be taken care of).

And Lux is a teenager (probably in his late teens too), but you can't tell me he didn't have someone looking out for him. Mina lost her husband in the war and only had Lux. As the son of a senator, his safety would be even more important. Wouldn't he have someone, friends or family, somewhere, caring for him, arranged or not?

So where was Onderon in all this? Did they refuse to help him? Was it a part of his plan to declare before the Republic and Separatist senators of Dooku's betrayal alone and without any security? Was he forced to run to Death Watch for help exacting his revenge?

I'll admit to wanting Ahsoka to give up her bias towards him and just drag him stunned unconscious to Coruscant. That might have solved a lot of this (maybe; we can never be too sure with Palpatine). It was an opportunity of a lifetime, having Dooku's location tracked.

But it just had to go to Death Watch.

You're right, Lux isn't in the right mind to be making good decisions. He's another Star Wars tragedy, like every other character.

I was pretty harsh with him on that post. He is naive, I won't retract that, he doesn't look like he's seen much of the world (I say this as a fellow naive person myself, like recognizes like).

And he's dumb too (at least for this episode, just hear me out okay), I won't retract that either: his foolishness, temporary as it is, arises from misplaced and desperate optimism, especially for a boy whose entire world has been shaken and yearns for justice. The way he hangs off every word of Viszla's is more than a little disconcerting. Both he and the Chieftain believe Viszla's obvious satire.

We all do dumb things every now and then.

Again, this goes back to wanting to know where his much-needed support is. If he'd had people advise him, people to fall back to - and I mean trustworthy people, not Death Watch, but family, friends - he wouldn't be making such mad decisions. There would at least have been a little more thought given to his decisions

His decisions make sense from his point of view, clouded by anger, desperation and grief.

The greatest tragedy is that they aren't the right ones, even for one as righteous as himself.

@margindoodles2407 is this you??

You don't ever have to drop in anonymously to challenge my takes :)

[jessicas-pi]

Problem Children AU incorrect quotes

Jadan, throwing his head into Esme's lap: Tell me I'm pretty! Esme, lovingly stroking his hair: You're pretty annoying, that's what you are. --- Asajj: If you want my advice- Esme: No offense but you’re the last person I want relationship advice from. You tried to kill your boyfriend. Multiple times. Asajj: First off, that was before we started dating. Secondly, he’s also tried to kill me. Quinlan: It’s true. It was mutually attempted murder. --- *Esme is talking about her past* Esme: I guess it was that day I came home to a cold, empty house, devoid of light and love, and I knew then that my sorrows would only grow. Ahsoka: Esme, this is the saddest life story I have ever heard! And you haven't even covered the teen years! Jadan: Oh, I'm sure it gets better! Esme: Ha! No, at eleven, things really took a turn for the worse.

--- Cody: Something tells me Jadan's going to be a bit more unhinged today... Jadan, holding a lit match and a bag of space cheetos: Leave me be, Obi-Wan isn't home to stop me, I'm going feral. --- Obi-Wan to Jadan: First rule of battle, Padawan... don’t ever let them know where you are. Anakin, shouting out of frame: WHOO-HOO! I’M RIGHT HERE! I’M RIGHT HERE! YOU WANT SOME O’ ME?! YEAH YOU DO! COME ON! COME ON! AAAAAH! Whoo-hoo! Obi-Wan: Of course, there are other schools of thought. --- Anakin: Alright Ahsoka, Jadan. Let's go over this one more time. Anakin: If something breaks? Jadan: We try to fix it before Padme gets home. Anakin: If it doesn't work? Ahsoka: We blame Lux. Lux: Seriously guys, what the heck?! --- Esme: You ever see something that changes your life and you're just like "huh.." Jadan: I saw you. Esme: Honestly that's so cute and sweet but it kinda makes this awkward because I was gonna show you a picture of Merrin in a tooka costume. --- Esme, reading a recipe: Beat three eggs? Ahsoka: It means like in hand-to-hand combat. Esme: Ohhhh- Jadan: Both of you get out of this kitchen. --- Ahsoka: Wait, hold up, why do you draw yourself like that? Esme: Uh, like what? Ahsoka: Like with gorgeous, muscular legs. Esme: Uh, this is what I look like. Ahsoka: Esme: THIS IS WHAT I LOOK LIKE! Ahsoka: Okay, then I want big beefy arms. Hot ones. Jadan: I wanna have a cowboy hat! Esme: Okay, arms and hat. *draws them* Lux: Ooh, give me a cowboy hat too! Esme: You can't just take Jadan's hat idea, Lux! He thought it up all by himself like a good boy! Come up with your own thing! Lux: But I wanna look cool! Ahsoka: Put him on one of those stupid baby tricycles. Lux: Do not do that! Esme: Tricycle, done. *draws it* Boba, want anything? Boba, making finger guns: Pew pew. Esme: You're not allowed to have weapons right now. Boba, making finger guns: Pew pew. Esme: You know what, okay. *draws it* But it's just for holding, not for shooting. --- Jadan: Since we're in a relationship now, your clothes are my clothes too. Don't ask me why I have your shirt on, this is our shirt. Esme: Fine, but when I come strutting in with your fuzzy socks I don't want to hear complaints.

[thecleverqueer]

Bo-Katan: Ahsoka. I’ve got a problem.

Ahsoka: What? What is it? If this has to anything to do with the dark saber, I swear….

Bo-Katan: No. It’s worse. People are saying that the writers are going to put me into a romantic relationship with Din Djarin.

Ahsoka: Din Djarin? Who TF is that?

Bo-Katan: You’ve met him.

Ahsoka:…. Um……?

Bo-Katan: It’s the idiot in the shiny armor with the kid!

Ahsoka: A guy!?! THAT guy!?! No way!

Bo-Katan: Yes! Way! THAT guy!

Ahsoka: ….

Ahsoka: HA HA HA HA HA HA!

Bo-Katan: Stop laughing! It isn’t funny!

Ahsoka: Yes, it is! Ha ha ha ha!

Bo-Katan: No. Seriously. Stop laughing.

Ahsoka: Bo, you’re the gayest person ever. You smacked my ass, and made a rude sexual comment the first time we met. Have they paid no attention to your character thus far!? Ha ha ha! It’s hilarious!

Bo-Katan: Stop!

Ahsoka: Ha ha ha!

Bo-Katan: No seriously…

Bo-Katan: You know they’re bringing back Lux just for you, right?

Ahsoka: Ha……….. wait….

Ahsoka: Fucking bitch.

[darlin-djarin]

dude, I'm so with you on the whole Barriss thing because honestly, it felt like with her and Luminara we were getting representation!! And when Luminara first appeared on screen I was like, "Oh??" but then I thought that maybe it was just specific to her, I didn't wanna raise my hopes too high because come on, this is star wars-- anyway but then I saw Barriss and I was like, well it's official they're both Muslim-coded. And Barriss was genuinely one of my favourite characters. And she still is because I'm choosing to ignore canon. (And at the time she looked around my age which was so !!!) But honestly, it's just- not okay. Having her be a murderer, a liar, a backstabber--all things that are clearly prohibited in Islam? You're so right, it hurt. And it feels like they did it on purpose. I know that writers rarely ever do anything accidentally, there were SO MANY other characters to choose from, and they went with Barriss. It sucks bro

yes yes yes exactly. it's just so frustrating. i thought we were genuinely getting representation on screen, even if it wasn't said directly, but what did we get instead?? one of our most beloved characters turning out to be a terrorist and a liar and a betrayer. all to further the plotline. and you're right, there WERE so many other characters and so many other story ideas that could've all led ahsoka to leave the order. what the hell happened to lux? why not bring him back? or bo-katan or like. literally anyone else?? another jedi even?? and why did it have to be the jedi temple? why did it have to be barriss offee? we barely even got to see her in the other episodes but all of a sudden she's a terrorist?? literally. bullshit. luminara and barriss were so cool to see as master and padawan and it's just so frustrating honestly to see that barriss ended up being the bad guy. it felt so targeted and i will forever and always be upset over it.

[beasanfi1997]

Mon Mothma had right because Ezra, Sabine, Hera, Chopper, Zeb, Jacen, Ahsoka, Lux, Rex and others will react to see Leia gives birth to Ben on Chandrila After the Battle of Jakku because it was their promise

[amons-hat-enthusiast]

Nine people you would like to know better

I was tagged by @stardustdiver and by @cassieoctavia! I admit, I forgot to do it earlier 😅

Three ships

Lana Beniko x female Sith Inquisitor (or Sith Warrior)

Merlwyb Bloefhiswyn x female Warrior of Light

Urianger Augurelt x Moenbryda Wilfsunnwyn (oh look, I actually have het ships! XD)

First ship ever

I was like, 7 years old when I shipped two characters and those were Alfred Hedgehog and Camille Wallaby from The Mysteries of Alfred Hedgehog, my at that time favorite cartoon. But that was long before I knew what shipping is. My first official ship would be Ahsoka Tano x Lux Bonteri from Star Wars The Clone Wars.

Last song

Last movie

Oppenheimer 😐 (I was dragged to the cinema by my mom)

Currently reading

Darth Plagueis by James Luceno! I'm on part three and it's soooo good!!! If you're a Star Wars fan, this book is a must-read!

Currently consuming

Right now? Nothing. But I did eat a small pack of crackers for dinner an hour ago.

Currently craving

It's been a few days quite some time since I had my dose of noodles...

Tag nine people :)

@bjornthefloof (očekuj da te tagujem svuda, nema ti spasa >:) ) @serenofroses @oneiroy @fantasmagoriam @elevlynn-peace @mxkelsifer @sushee @bnuuywol @astralflows

[bart1607]

Better days || chapter 2

Today I released second and final chapter of my first fanfiction! I also decided to add some additional tags, as this chapter shows also relationship between Padme and Anakin and Bly and Aayla.

Give me also some advice about AO3 age rating system. I don't know, how should I rate my work.

Please let me know, if you liked this fanfiction or it sucks!

Warnings: swearing, drunk people and Lux being dick

Link to AO3:

Several days have passed since those events. For Padmé and Anakin, the day they wanted has finally arrived. Padmé went into labor. Anakin was very upset about Padme's birth, and was still haunted by memories of visions in which Padmé died during childbirth. He waited impatiently for a medical droid or a doctor to finally come out and tell him that everything had gone according to plan. Anakin informed Obi Wan and Ahsoka that labor had begun. He wanted someone to accompany him and support him at that moment. Seeing Anakin's behavior, the bearded man decided to calm him down a little: 

- Anakin, don’t be so nervous! Padme is in the best medical facility on Coruscant, she is under the care of professionals! In addition, she is now the chancellor, so she can always count on much better specialists than others! 

- Thank you Master for these words, you calmed me down a little. Maybe I'm actually panicking too much. But it takes a while. 

- Skyguy, everything will be fine! - Ahsoka said with a smile - Padme is a strong woman, she has been through a lot, so she will easily cope with childbirth! 

 - Thanks for these words Ahsoka! 

After a dozen or so minutes, the medical droid left the room where Padme was lying and began to walk towards Anakin. Anakin sprang from the chair he was sitting on and said to the droid: 

- How about her?! Everything went according to plan? 

- Mr. Anakin, yes, it all worked out! - the droid began to say - your wife gave birth to beautiful twins! Both your wife and newborn children are safe! 

Anakin's face turned pale and he slumped to his feet. Obi Wan caught him in time, otherwise he would have fallen to the floor. All three had shock and disbelief on their faces. Everyone, especially Anakin, thought Padme would only have one child. Nobody expected twins. After a moment, Anakin said: 

- Twins! I have twins! I will be the father of two children!  Tears began to gather in Anakin's eyes, he was very touched by this joyful news, after a moment he asked: 

- Can we go inside? 

- Yes, although your friends can only come in for a moment. The patient is very tired after the whole birth, so visits from people outside the family must be limited - replied the droid. 

They entered the room where Padme lay. The sight they saw confirmed what the droid had said earlier. Anakin's wife was very exhausted and tired of giving birth, but her face showed joy and contentment. Right next to her were newborn babies. 

- Ani! - said Padme in a weakened voice - everything worked out, why are you crying? - she asked seeing tears flowing down Anakin's cheeks 

- It's from happiness Padme! - He answered her then walked over to her and kissed her on the cheek. 

- How are our kids? 

- They are healthy, we have a boy and a girl - Padme said happily - take them in your arms - she added. 

Anakin pulled the girl out and carefully took her in his arms. He looked at her carefully, then said: 

- She looks a lot like you! I think she inherited many traits from you - Anakin said with a smile 

- Can I hold her? asked Ahsoka 

- Yes, just be careful - he said, handing the girl over to Ahsoka, then took the boy and said: 

- Honey, what shall we call them? 

- Ani, I think I've already come up with names that will be best for our children. I was thinking of naming the boy Luke and the girl Leia - announced Padme - what do you think Ani? 

- Padme, these are the most beautiful names. I don't think I could think of better ones – he replied 

- Obi Wan, would you like to hold him? - asked Anakin 

- Can I? I don't want to scare him… - Obi Wan started to say, but Anakin cut him off. 

- Master, you must hold him - Anakin said, handing Luke with the utmost care in Obi Wan's arms then added: 

- I feel like you're going to be a great uncle, Master! - he commented, seeing with what care his master looks at the child  

- And you Ahsoka, will be great aunt! - Padmé added in a cheerful voice 

- I have a good feeling about that! - Anakin said 

Ahsoka and Obi Wan both smiled upon hearing these words, but immediately afterwards Anakin's former master said: 

- I think we should get going now, we've been sitting here for a while, haven't we Ahsoka? 

- You're right, I even forgot that I made an appointment with Rex to go to one certain place. 

Hearing the Ahsoka’s words, Obi Wan, Anakin and Padme looked at each other and were unsure of what they had just heard. 

- With whom? - they said at the same time. 

- Well? I love him more than anything, and he loves me. And besides, I'm not a Jedi, so you can't blame me for anything. The Code no longer applies to me. 

- Calm down Ahsoka, no one is mad at you or holds any grudges. We're just very surprised by it - Anakin said, then added: 

- At least I see I wasn't the only one keeping my relationship a secret. I hope the Code will be reformed. I wonder how many Jedi still have some kind of secret love relationship, he said with a smile 

- I agree with the idea of reforming the Code - Ahsoka replied to his words 

- I support that too, Anakin. The Jedi Code was always changing. Changing some of the rules of the Code and how the Order works wouldn't be such a bad thing - Obi Wan added. 

Anakin laid down his children at this time, then thanked Obi Wan and Ahsoka for coming and visiting. 

A few days later  

Military medical facility  

As announced by Chancellor Padme Amidala, the chip removal process, mandatory for all clone troopers, began today. Each unit received guidelines on the time and place of the procedure. The 332nd company was one of the first to undergo this treatment. Rex was to undergo the procedure first. A moment before the procedure, he was very stressed, he was afraid that something might happen to him or the procedure itself would fail and he would die. Fortunately, he was accompanied by Ahsoka, who calmed him down and was with him all the time. Before starting the procedure, Rex hugged Ahsoka and kissed her before saying: 

- Just in case something... - Ahsoka interrupted him: 

 - Rex, this is completely safe! Pull yourself together and get in there! I will be with you all the time  

- Okay commander! - Rex said with a smile, then walked in. 

A few dozen minutes later  

Rex was lying in a hospital bed. He has not yet woken up since the end of the procedure. According to information from doctors, clones can wake up even after a few hours. Ahsoka sat by Rex's bedside all the time, waiting for him to wake up. She looked at the bandage on his head. This is where the chip was implanted. Ahsoka thought for a moment about what would have happened if things had turned out a little differently and taken a wrong turn. What if someone had issued Order 66 that Anakin mentioned. She wasn't a Jedi, so technically she shouldn't have been executed. But she couldn't imagine how, in an instant, the clones, the soldiers with whom the Jedi were fighting side by side, could turn against them and start killing them. At some point, she noticed that Rex began to move his fingers and slowly began to open his eyes. 

 She grabbed his hand and asked: 

 - How do you feel Rex?  

- Okay, Ahsoka - he began to grope his head at this point, and came across the bandage with his hand and said: 

 - So it was here that they installed these contrapties in us? 

- Looks like it, honey - Ahsoka said 

- You were right, it was safe, I didn't even feel anything when they pulled it out of me - Rex said happily, then added: 

- I think I slept a little, didn't I? 

- Yes, you lay down for a while, but you slept a short time anyway, because some clones may even wake up after a few hours - Ahsoka told him.  

The two talked a little more. Rex was discharged from the hospital the next day because he was healthy and did not show any symptoms that could indicate his poor health caused by undergoing surgery.   

2 weeks later  

During this period, 3 landmark events took place. The first thing was to capture the Separatist leaders. Republic intelligence tracked them down in the Mustafar system. Obi Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker were the commanders of the operation. The 501st Legion took part in the action, including the 332nd Company, formally commanded by Rex, but in fact Ahsoka Tano, and the 212th Battalion. The Jedi agreed to allow Ahsoka to participate in the operation as an "advisor", similar to the siege of Mandalore. For obvious reasons, she could not officially command any clone unit. The operation itself went quickly and efficiently. The troops encountered little resistance, and all the Separatists were captured and sent back to the Republic, where a peace treaty was signed with them. A few days after the treaty was signed, the trials of Darth Maul, Mas Medda and Separatists leaders took place. Darth Maul and Mas Medda were sentenced to death. The charges Darth Maul has received include treason against the Republic, genocide, Jedi assassinations, leading an organized crime group, and the murder of the Duchess of Mandalore. The sentence was carried out by beheading with a lightsaber. Mas Medda was charged with complicity in conspiracy, treason against the Republic, and deliberate misrepresentation of the Senate. The sentence was carried out by hanging. The Separatist leaders were originally sentenced to death, but these were later commuted to long prison sentences. The second major event was the completion of the investigation into the Kaminoan experiments. The investigation revealed that the Kaminoans were working on cloning the Zillo beast that attacked Coruscant earlier, and they also created female clones of Jango Fett. Two such clones were discovered: Emerie Karr, an adult woman whom the Kaminoans trained to conduct research and experiments. It was supposed to help the Kaminoans in their research. The second clone was a girl named Omega. She had not yet been given any functions, perhaps the Kaminoans were waiting until she became an adult woman. Kamino was placed under the strict supervision of the Republic, and the Jedi presence on its planet was increased from one to three. Any new experiments now had to be reported to the Jedi stationed there. Correctly, Lama Su and Nala Se, as well as the whole of Kamino, should be sanctioned even more for their continued support of Palpatine's plan, but it was decided that they would act from now on on on behalf of the Republic. They did not want to waste their previous achievements, and their research was decided to be used for good purposes. The first order of the Republic was to significantly reduce the production of clone troops. There was no need to produce an excess number of clones, because the conflict with the Separatists was resolved. It was also known that clones have accelerated aging, which is why the Kaminoans were commissioned to develop a special vaccine with a special substance that would inhibit the rapid aging process and restore normal aging. In addition, the newly created clones were to have accelerated aging until they reached an age adequate to the clone's function. The last important thing that happened at that time was the issue of granting rights to clone troopers. Pantoran senator Riyo Chuchi took up the fight for clone rights, but convincing the Galactic Senate of her demands was an extremely difficult task. Although it won the support of several senators, there were still not enough senators to convince the rest of the Senate to grant rights to clones. Some of the postulates of the pantoran senator included: 

Granting a Senate seat to one clone, who will represent the interests of all clone troopers 

Granting civil rights and allowing clones to participate in public life 

Providing the clones with decent living conditions after their service ends 

Unfortunately, Riyo Chuchi knew that she had a difficult task ahead of her, and it might be some time before she could convince the other senators to support her idea. 

One week later  

Anakin, Obi Wan, and Ahsoka decided to meet at Dexter's bar, owned by Obi Wan's friend. It was Dexter who once helped Obi Wan find Kamino when he was looking for the assassin who tried to kill then-senator Amidala. The three friends talked to each other about the events that have taken place recently and the ceremonial parade that will take place to celebrate the end of the war. At some point, Rex unexpectedly entered the bar, followed closely by Cody and Wolffe. 

- And what brings you here? - Obi Wan asked 

 - Let me guess, you probably did something and are afraid to say? - Anakin added, laughing  

- We didn't do anything wrong - Rex said, then continued - Ahsoka knows why we came here, because I told her about our idea yesterday. 

 - What idea? - Obi Wan asked 

 - Well, together with the guys we thought that maybe we could invite others and organize an unofficial celebration of victory at 79s cantina? 

- So you want to throw a party, right? - said Anakin 

- We thought it would be good to integrate and get to know a little bit from a different side. Well, you understand, so far we know each other only from the military, professional side. - Cody said 

- And besides, we want you to participate, because this event would also be a kind of thanks to you! You saved our lives more than once! - finished Wolffe 

- I can count on you, my darling, right? - Rex turned to Ahsoka 

- Sure - she replied 

- And you accept our invitation? - Rex asked Anakin and Obi Wan 

- I'd have to ask Padme what she thinks. You know we have kids now and things... but I don't think she should mind. 

- It's okay, just let me know as soon as possible, because we plan to arrange it all in 3 days 

- If you're coming, I'm coming too - Obi Wan said, then added - and who else have you invited? 

- We actually sent invitations to all the Jedi who led us and some senators. There will definitely be master Plo Koon, Aayla Secura and senator Riyo Chuchi. We are still waiting for answers from the rest. - Rex replied 

- Well, this is going to be a party Coruscant will never forget! - Anakin said laughing 

3 days later  

The party at 79s cantina had been going on for several hours. Most of the invitees agreed to come, although some refused and did not come. This group included Mace Windu. Inside the cantina it got very colorful. Clones from various units came to it, which was synonymous with the fact that they wore uniforms in colors symbolizing individual units. And that's how you could watch the 327th Star Corps drink together with the Coruscant Guard and hear stories from soldiers of the 104th Battalion and the 501st Legion. Some, slightly more drunk clones arranged various competitions and games, while others danced with the women present in the cantina. It also seemed that Ahsoka wasn't the only one who had found her love in the clone. Sitting at the table, Ahsoka noticed Bly holding Aayla Secura's hand. It didn't last long, because after a while, Aayla gave Bly her gaze telling him to hide his hand, and then whispered something in his ear.  

- She probably wants their relationship to remain a secret. She is afraid that she will suffer some consequences because of this. - Togruta thought 

After a few minutes, the Twi’lek Jedi Master got up from the table and headed for the bathroom. Seeing this, Ahsoka decided to follow her. 

- Where are you going? - Rex asked 

- I'll be right back - Ahsoka replied 

Togruta quickly followed Aayla and managed to catch her just before the door. 

- Are you having fun? - Aayla Secura began 

 - Of course! What about you?  

- Me too - the two women entered the bathroom. Ahsoka quickly made sure that no one was in the toilet stalls and no one was coming. She tried to ensure discreet and privacy for Secura as possible, and she didn't want anyone to hear their delicate conversation. 

- Aayla, are you in love with Bly? 

Aayla's face was shocked, she hadn't expected such a question from her Togrutan friend. After a moment, slightly frightened, she spoke:  

- How do you know that?  

- I saw you holding hands for a moment.  

- Damn, I just told him not to do it in front of others because someone might see it. Yes, we are together, but we remain hidden for obvious reasons. - Twi'lek replied nervously, and then added: 

- We quietly hope that the Code will actually be reformed soon, so that we can freely show up together, without fear of consequences.  

Seeing Aayla Secura's stress and nervousness, Ahsoka decided to calm her down:  

- Relax, don't be nervous. You can always count on me, I will never betray you. And if someone asks, I will say that I drank too much and something predicted me or that I do not remember anything.  

Hearing Ahsoka's words, Aayla breathed a sigh of relief and hugged the Togruta saying:  

-Thanks! You don't even know how important it is for me and Bly! I am very happy that I can count on your discretion!  

- No problem! I understand how you feel, you don't want to experience extra stress - Ahsoka said. Ahsoka then left the bathroom and Aayla occupied one of the toilets. Walking to the table where she had been sitting earlier, the Togruta looked around the room a bit and noticed that Obi Wan was nowhere to be found. As she sat down at the table, she decided to ask where Obi Wan had gone:    - I'm back, where is Obi Wan?    - He said he was going to get some air outside the cantina - Anakin replied    - He's been gone for a while - Rex pointed out    - Actually, he said he would only go for a while, and he's been gone for several dozen minutes - added Padme    - I'll see what’s going on with him - Anakin said, getting up from the table 

Anakin went to the exit of the cantina, in the meantime he was accosted by a certain commando: 

- General, are you running away already? - he say a little incomprehensibly. You could smell alcohol from his mouth. He must have drunk a lot. 

- I'm just going to get some air for a moment - Anakin replied to him, and then he suddenly heard someone calling the commando: 

- Gregor! Leave him alone and come back to us! - the unknown clone screeched    - Okay, okay, I'm coming! - said Gregor, who staggered to the table from which he had heard the call. 

Anakin stepped outside the cantina and began to look around. He saw many clone soldiers and other party attendees who also went out to get some fresh air or smoke a cigarette. At one point, he noticed one of the clones vomiting and the other holding him up. Young Skywalker finally managed to find Obi Wan. He stood alone, leaning against the wall, and looking out over the panorama of Coruscant. He seemed to be thinking about something. Anakin finally walked up to him and spoke: 

- Here you are Master! And I'm looking for you everywhere, we've already started to worry, because you're not coming back for a long time.  

-You know, I left because I had to think things a little bit. Anakin stood next to him and listened to what the bearded Jedi was saying: 

- We won the war, but look Anakin at the cost to all of us. How many towns, villages, had been destroyed, how many people had lost their - his voice began to break - loved ones. 

After saying these words, Obi Wan looked up into the starry sky. Tears began to roll down his cheeks. Anakin quickly connected the facts and guessed what, or rather who Obi Wan meant:  

- You miss Satine, am I right?  

- Yes, you don't even know how much I miss her! Why did I have to suffer so much? First I lost my master, then Maul murdered the love of my life in front of my eyes! Sometimes I wonder if I made a mistake. Maybe I could have left the Order when I was still a young Padawan of Qui-Gon, at least I would have spent some time with Satine. 

Anakin listened to Obi Wan's monologue and wondered how to comfort him. After thinking about it, he said:  

- Master, I think Satine would be very proud of you! You helped her sister liberate Mandalore, you can control your emotions and thanks to this you are not consumed by the dark side. Satine would be immensely grateful for what you have done so far for her, her sister, and the entire Mandalore! 

They stood for a moment in silence, which was interrupted by Obi Wan:  

- Thank you, Anakin! I needed this conversation, I had to finally tell someone about what was constantly on my heart! You're like a brother to me, I'm glad I have someone like you! - He patted Anakin on the shoulder, then added:  

- I hope that Bo Katan will consider the Jedi and the Republic's participation in the liberation of her planet. My dream is that we will finally have a good relationship with the Mandalorians. They would be good and powerful allies. May this be the first step towards establishing good relations with the Republic for the first time in history. I also hope that Bo Katan will honor Satine in some way. Despite being enemies in the political arena, Bo Katan loved and respected her sister very much. 

With these words, the two Jedi began to return to the cantina. As they sat back at the table, Padme spoke:  

- Where have you been for so long? We thought something had happened to you, I was about to go looking for you!  

- We were talking in front of the cantina, you could come to us! - Anakin replied  

A group of friends started talking to each other and sipping drinks. Suddenly, everyone heard a powerful bang and the sound of a smashed bottle. The music stopped playing and everyone started looking around the room to find the source of the sound. Immediately afterwards, all eyes were on Wrecker, who, trying to get up from the table, pushed the bottle with his hand and fell to the floor. He was drunk. At that time, Hunter burst into the canteen, who was gone for a long time. You could see on his face the nervousness of the situation he saw after entering the cantina: 

- Fuck! You cannot be left alone even for a moment! How many times have I told you not to let Wrecker drink alcohol!? shouting, he walked to the table of the Bad Batch, and there was laughter all over the room, and then the music sounded again and everyone went back to what ther were doing. 

- Echo, Tech, help me pick him up! We'll take him to the Marauder. The members of the Bad Batch stood up and slowly began to lift their friend. Crosshair was watching them, giving them his characteristic smile. 

- And what are you waiting for? Move your ass and help us! After all, the three of us will not be able to carry him! - Hunter ordered, then the sniper reluctantly stood up and proceeded to help. The whole situation looked comical! Minutes later after the incident, Padmé noticed it was time to go home:  

- Ani, we should be leaving now!  

- You're right, darling!  

The Skywalkers said goodbye to their friends and began to wait for the pilot to come after them. Half an hour later, Obi Wan decided to return to the temple, and an hour later Ahsoka with Rex left the canteen. It was late at night and more and more people were starting to leave the party. The party in the cantina has already ended, but everyone who was there will have nice memories of the moments that they experienced together with their friends! 

One week later  

The day has come for the parade that will march through the streets of Coruscant. It was decided to organize it to celebrate the victory of the Republic in the devastating war for 3 years and the defeat of the Sith. Representatives of military units from other planets were also invited to the march. Only senators or leaders came from some of the planets, because not every planet had its own armed forces. The most important people in the Republic sat in special seats. Right next to Chancellor Amidala, the Jedi Council and some military commanders took their seats, including Wulff Yularen and the not very popular Wilhuff Tarkin, who did not have a very good reputation among clones. Next to them were senators, leaders of planets invited to take part in the parade, and other Jedi. Ahsoka also sat in the VIP area. Her contribution to winning the war and her help in command was appreciated, despite the fact that she was no longer a Jedi, and she was allowed to sit next to the most important people. A large crowd of citizens gathered around the entire route, who wanted to take a closer look at the presented military equipment and the march of soldiers. The march was opened by a representation of the Coruscant Guard, led by Commander Fox. Seeing the commander of the Guard, Riyo Chuchi began waving at him. Ahsoka has heard rumors that Pantoran has crush on Fox. Right behind soldiers was the passage of BARC soldiers on speeders. Moments later, LAATs in the colors of the Coruscant Guard flew over the heads of the assembled crowd. This was followed by a march by the 501st Legion and the 332nd Company. Ahsoka quickly grabbed her holo-tablet and began recording the march. Rex asked her the day before the parade to record the moment when the unit she had commanded would be walking. Rex was very curious to see how his team fared at the parade. The clones were followed by AT-TE walkers and AT-RT rovers, and ARC-170 and Y-Wing star fighters flew in the air. After passing these walkers, the audience saw the representation of the 41st Elite Corps, which took part in the Battle of Kashyyyk. The soldiers were followed by HAVv A6 Juggernaut tanks, followed by clones from the 327th Star Corps. Suddenly, a huge shadow appeared over everyone, the assembled crowd reacted quickly and looked up to see what was above their heads. A low-flying Venator-class star destroyer appeared before their eyes. After passing all the representatives of individual units of the Grand Army of the Republic and troops from other planets, at the end the Volunteer Army of the Republic, a newly formed formation of the armed forces of the Republic, was presented. It was open to citizens who were willing to defend the Republic against threats and to bring peace to systems that were turbulent. The elite unit of the Republic Volunteer Army, whose members were the best of the best, were stormtroopers. The purpose of both groups was to carry out anti-terrorist operations, escort VIPs, conduct peacekeeping missions and support the Grand Army of the Republic. After the parade, many important personalities decided to speak and give speeches. 

One month later  

The Galactic Senate has finally reached a breakthrough! Pantoran Senator Riyo Chuchi's demands to grant rights to clones have been implemented! The first clone in history to represent the clones' interests in the Senate is Rex. Initially, he did not want to accept this function, because he believed that he was not suitable and did not know politics. However, he was convinced by Ahsoka and his brothers, who explained to him that there was no better clone than him who could act as a senator. In addition, he could always count on the support of the Chuchi, which somehow became a symbol of the fight for the rights of clones. Eventually, Rex agreed to serve as senator of all clones and began drafting the first bills, which he wanted to introduce in the Senate after some time. His additional task was also to supervise the observance and fulfillment of Riyo Chuchi's postulates. Unfortunately, not everyone was happy with Rex's Senate seat and support for Chuchi's ideals. One such person was Lux Bonteri, a senator from Onderon who had crush on Ahsoka in the past. One day, he led to an unpleasant situation in which he humiliated Rex and the other clones and insulted Ahsoka. After the deliberations, Rex went out into the corridor, where the Togruta was waiting for him: 

- Hello my senator! - Ahsoka said with a smile  

- Hi! - Rex told her, then kissed her on the cheek 

 They began to head for the exits, and Ahsoka asked him:  

- How was today?  

- Honestly, it's nothing interesting! - Rex began to say - we still vote only on taxes and some unimportant bills. The job of a senator is not as exciting as serving in the army! 

They both laughed and then continued talking to each other about slightly different topics. However, they did not notice that they were being followed by Lux, who after a few minutes of tracking decided to speak: 

- Well, who am I seeing here, Ahsoka Tano! - he said dismissively - I see you like to fuck with clones! I still love you all the time, please be with me! You'll have a better life with me than with this... thing! 

On the faces of Rex and Ahsoka, first there was shock caused by the words of the Onderon senator, and then nervousness. Rex was about to punch Lux in the face, but Ahsoka stopped him. 

- Fuck off from us, okay? I never felt anything for you and never will! We won't be a couple! - Ahsoka said furiously 

- I still think you're making a mistake. I also believe that giving "test tubes" a seat in the Senate is the biggest mistake the Senate has made! Now listen to me CLONE! I will always vote against the bills you support and create, and I will ruin your senatorial career. - Lux, after saying these words, spoke to Ahsoka: 

- And you got kicked out of the Order for being a whore or there was other reason? 

Rex couldn't stand it and finally reacted to Lux's words: 

- Listen to me now, you bastard! First, no one asked you for your opinion on my bills and the wisdom of giving clones a seat in the Senate. Secondly, you can vote against me, I am supported by the majority of senators anyway, so your miserable opposition will make me laugh. And thirdly, if you continue to insult me or Ahsoka, I will talk to you differently! 

Ahsoka listened with bated breath as Rex crushed Lux. She had never seen Rex in such anger. Lux was speechless, he didn't expect Rex to answer him so harshly.  

- What choked you up so much,? In the Senate, you're never talkative either! - added Rex Wanting to prevent further escalation, Ahsoka grabbed Rex's hand and said:  

- Let's go Rex, leave that jerk already! 

The pair turned and walked away from Lux with a little quicker step. The Onderon senator stood stunned for a moment, then walked in an unknown direction. Moments later, Ahsoka began to say to Rex: 

- Thank you Rex for saving me from him!" I've never seen you like this. 

- I just hate it when someone insults the woman I love - Rex told her - They may offend me, but I'll never let anyone talk badly about you! - as he said these words, he put his arm around Ahsoka. 

A few days later, Ahsoka and Rex learned that Lux had been dismissed as senator by his superiors in Onderon. Apparently, he was demoted to some insignificant position because of acting in the Senate under the influence of emotions and neglect of duties. For Ahsoka and Rex, this meant that they would probably not meet the problematic senator soon. In the meantime, a group of clones from the 501st legion came up with a very good initiative. They secretly collected money that they want to spend on building a monument commemorating clone 99, who died defending Kamino, and Fives, who was wrongly shot while trying to apprehend. The idea was supported by Senator Rex, and after a short time it was decided that a monument to clone 99 would be erected on Kamino, and a monument commemorating Fives would be placed in the square next to the wall with the names of soldiers who died during the first battle of Geonosis. Boards were added to each of them with information about both clones and the deeds they performed. 

3 weeks later  

A touching event took place at Ryloth. On the initiative of the parents of Numa, a girl who was saved during the war by the clone Waxer, it was decided that one of the rebuilt schools would be named after the fallen clone. The opening ceremony of the school was attended by Boil, the clone who found the girl with Waxer, Obi Wan Kenobi, as well as Senator Rex. Jedi Master Kenobi himself has also been commemorated. In one of the cities, an avenue was put into use, which was called Obi Wan Kenobi’s Avenue. Meanwhile, the Republic began to withdraw troops from planets that had previously been covered by hostilities. On some planets, however, it was decided to leave small garrisons, in which soldiers changed every few months. Republic also began to monitor the situation on Mandalore, which was still in conflict. Although Bo Katan Kryze managed to control a much larger part of the planet, there are still isolated groups of rebellious Mandalorians resisting. Several times there were negotiations with the Mandalorians, who did not want to submit to Bo Katan, but they did not bring any result. Small Republic troops were left on Mandalore after the siege to provide assistance to Bo Katan, but they were too weak, so discussions began to send a peacekeeping mission led by the Jedi to de-escalate the conflict as soon as possible. 

2 weeks later  

A very important and personal event took place for Anakin. After much discussion in the Senate, slavery was finally banned across the galaxy! Anakin, who was a slave as a child, like his late mother, welcomed the news. This decision also marked the launch of many operations aimed at breaking up human trafficking groups and freeing slaves. Aayla Secura and Bly also had reasons to be happy. The Jedi Council began to implement a project to reform the Code. This meant lifting the ban on attachment. It was also decided to send a peacekeeping mission to Mandalore. These were some of the most serious steps to restore justice and peace to the galaxy. However, the Republic still had a few problems ahead of it. These included piracy, cartels and other criminal groups, terrorist organizations and planets that were lawless or mired in civil wars. However, it was only a matter of time before the Republic dealt with these problems. Everyone knew that better and safer times had come!

[truetgirl]

slaps Ahsoka's head Today's pride headcanon character can fit so many lightsaber colors in her! In all seriousness, let's talk about how Ahsoka "girl of the week" Tano is 100% a lesbian.

Oh, Ahsoka, my beloved. Fun fact: she's on the shortlist of "characters that trans'd Kelly's gender" and is probably the character on that list that I've been into for the longest. But, I digress! We're here to talk about why I think this girl is gay and you should too.

First up, let's cover the elephant in the room: Lux. There's some interesting material to be had with Lux Bonteri, it's true, but his supposed "romance" with Ahsoka is not one that I ever really bought. For one thing, Ahsoka pretty much always has bigger fish to fry than that stuff when they see each other, and so should he, but he spends a lot of time being creepy and overly forward. There's stuff here, just not stuff I'd build a ship with.

As for my actual reasoning as to why Ahsoka is gay?

Also Kaeden Larte, but since she's strictly an Ahsoka novel character I've got no official art for her.

Take Aksoka's dynamics with these four along with how she seems to charm her way through random side character girls' good graces almost constantly? Yeah, you get the picture. Barriss, in particular, I think is interesting because I remember having seen one of the writers of Weapons Factory say that they had been trying to drop hints for that on purpose. Unfortunately, I can't find the quote right now, so if anyone else can, please help me out here lol.

[heaven-s-black-box]

Puppy Love- Lux x Ahsoka

Return to File- Event Masterlist

Recovery date: July 21st, 2022

Description: In which Ahsoka surpassed her Masters in first loves.

Notes: An entry from my 2022 research project into the universe of Star Wars. You can find the next entry here.

Word count: 462

Back to directory

The first time Ahsoka’s heart fluttered and her stomach churned when Lux actually looked at her, she panicked. It was a weird feeling, and it was very similar to when a plan started to go wrong on the battlefield.

She chalked it up to him being a separatist, even though Padme trusted his mother, she didn’t trust either of them.

“How many separatists have you met?” He asked as she walked away.

That should have been her first clue that she didn’t see him as a threat, she turned her back on him. It was because she trusted Padme, she told herself when thinking back on it.

---

The first time Lux’s heart clenched in his chest and his stomach churned, he offered to take her bag. It wasn’t special, just a common courtesy, but her eyes were beautiful. They were sharp and guarded, he should’ve taken offense, but he didn’t.

“May I?”

He reached for her bag and she pulled away, glaring at him, and he couldn’t help the faint smile that pulled at his lips. It was admiration, he was sure of it, if she really was a jedi it meant she risked her life for her cause. That was something he could admire, at least in principle.

---

The second time, for both of them, is their first goodbye.

Their sincerity catches them both a little off guard, even though they’d realized they were not the enemies they thought they were.

“You really think the republic would vote for peace?”

“I hope so. I wouldn't want to meet you on the battlefield, for your sake.”

It’s sincerely right up until the end, she’s teasing him, but there’s genuine worry. Lux is not built for a fight, and a part of Ahsoka worries what would happen if he got caught up in one.

Then she smiles at him, she really smiles, and he gives her a small smile back.

While Ahsoka’s butterflies dissipate quickly, focusing back on her trip and Padme, Lux’s linger a little longer.

---

Ahsoka forgets about the feeling, it’s an attachment she can’t have. Lux becomes drawn into his grief and anger after his mother’s death. They move on.

And then he bursts into the meeting on Mandalore and Ahsoka’s stomach sinks, a bad feeling crawling up her spine. 

“You didn’t mention that Lux Bonteri would be here.”

“I didn’t know.”

“I stand before you, son of Mina Bonteri, loyal separatist, a patriot, a friend.”

He looks at her when he says friend, and the bad feeling backs off and her expression softens. The corner of his lips quirk up, and it comes back like a tsunami. This would not end well.

“It has come to my attention that my mother was murdered by Count Dooku in cold blood!”

[graylinesspam]

Well well if it isn’t the foreshadowing of the clone rebellion on kamino we’re witnessing (is it? IS IT??? Please be it).

No but really, are you actually planning on writing this kind of ending or you’re sticking to the canon?

Anyway im having a lot of thoughts, most of them are AGAFAGGAZGAVAVAVVAAGHAVSVSSVS I LOVE IT. IT WAS SO CUTE AND THEN GOT SO FREAKING SAD AND THEN GOT CUTE AGAIN AND THEN THE PLOT TWIST????? ALPHA PLANNING A COUP RIGHT UNDER THE LONG NECK’S NOSES HELLO????? BRILLIANT

Also

DID REX OFFICIALLY ADOPT AHSOKA MANDO STYLE ???? Did the rest of the torrent do the same omfg they’re literally family 🥹🥹🥹

Rex trying to keep teenage cadets away from Ashoka is both cute and hilarious. He is such a dad.. ahem… brother material 👀

And I absolutely love the way you characterized Shaak Ti. Everyone always portray her as this wise Jedi that cares about the clones just like Plo Koon. And that’s true to some extent but she is so wrong for sitting in her own bubble and refusing to see the way kaminoans and trainers abuse them. She's a kind soul and means well but she totally lacks critical thinking. (but also yeah I would love to see her finally being able to adopt a few baby clones and raise them as her own sons. Such a touching moment it was, right until the aiwha baits ruined it that is)

And Kamino being compared to the eye of the storm is such a poetry honestly yk it rhymes

In conclusion, wonderful chapter as usual.

Okay. So much happened this chapter. Let me bullet point my response.

I likely won't get around to writing a clone rebellion in SH, though one is definitely planned for ASOI. I just can't see the war ended (without the empire's rise) and there nit being a clone uprising. But yeah ask me about that for ASOI and I might tell you my plans.

Yes, Rex officially adopted Ahsoka previously in SH. Off-screen. He knows her name as his sister and all that. I chose Rex partially because he's more traditional and sentimental than a lot of her other brothers. Kix has also said the vows but the rest of Torrent didn't feel the need to. They heard that Rex adopted her and basically went,"Sister? Ah ok, sister." *vigorous nodding*

I don't like to focus too much on Ahsoka's relationships with boys, but also y'know everyone (within age or developmental range) had a crush on her during the war. Cal, Kannan, Lux, Korkie, some clone cadets. She's just a pretty girl. But yeah no Rex overheard like one remark about her and moved an entire class and had them running laps for hours. He does not play.

He is absolutely her Dad-ish in the beginning. They develop a more on par relationship as she grows up and then eventually he fully relinquishes social rank to her. IE not being her elder anymore. But the whole Brothers raising brothers, line was the most important from that section.

Shaak Ti is traumatized and depressed. That's what this is. The Jedi never should have been in a war. That's it. And trying to run a war when you're completely unqualified hurts everyone. Which isn't to say they have a lot of choice. Realistically if she stood up one day and decided that the Kaminoans needed to surrender all of the clones to the jedi and stop producing them she'd be removed from her station and ignored. There's really nothing she can do. And she knows it. Which is why she lives with her hands over her "ears". Because if she just holds on and does a little good every day maybe she can actually change something one day. (the pessimistic view being it's futile in the face of the rising empire of which she's an active participant in building.) (and the more optimistic AU view being that Ahsoka succeeds in ASOI and the clones go free but they have to unpack their abuse in a plee for citizenship forcing the galaxy to realize what Kamino did and what Shaak participated in. Likely resulting in her retirement.) either way not pleasant for her.

Maybe she does end up with some sons, depending in which older clones decide they want to ally with her. It's all gonna be communal raising of the children.

The whole theme of this arc was really that there is no peace in war. So long as the storm rages you'll always have to step back into it. Only by pushing through to the other side can you escape it. But yeah I put SO much effort into the environmental symbolism. I was planning this for months before I started writing it.

So thank you so much for the ask and for reading the latest chapters. I had a blast writing them. Fingers crossed no one is too mad about my characterization of Shaak, I guess we'll find out.