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staycalmandhugaclone · 3 months

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Identity Pt 8

Part (8) of Identity, the next arc of Doc's Misadventures! If you're new, start at the beginning with Touch Starved!

At a whopping 27,000 words, this accidentally became the biggest arc in the series. Oops. Anyway, I've certainly been a bit possessed about getting it done, so here yuh go!

Warnings: Honestly, aside from the standard guilt and regret, this chapter is mostly fluff

WC: 2,913

He held me until my breath eased back into a quiet, rhythmic ebb and flow free of even the occasional hitched gasp. At some point, he’d shifted just enough to lean his shoulder against the wall, hand lightly clasped around the back of my neck as his fingers trailed absently atop the skin peaking out between my blacks and hairline. Part of me knew I shouldn’t stay like this; that hiding against him only delayed confronting the guilt I’d see in Wolffe’s eyes, the trepidation and doubt in Cody’s, but it was so easy to pretend otherwise, to keep my face nestled against his throat and let all thought of what responsibility awaited us beyond those walls fade as seconds turned into minutes.

A crippling realization struck me in that moment. I was hiding. I was hiding from the risk of another mission and another near disaster. I was hiding from the damage that had already been caused and the inevitable destruction still awaiting me. I was hiding from the certainty that even worse might be befall those around me at any moment; doubtless of just how effortlessly that might break whatever fleeting reserves of strength somehow managed to keep me going through all that had already happened, and I knew that that very fear of them getting hurt was likely the only thing keeping me from yielding that I might be there to help them in any way I could.

But it wasn’t just the fear of impending nightmares that kept me curled in the arms of a man I remembered hiding from so many months prior, back when we were strangers and I shied from the intensity that burned in his eyes when faced with even a simple question; the deep quiet he’d fall into while considering every aspect of a problem before coming to a decision, and the unease that would fill me at the mere thought of finding myself the subject of that frightening focus. So much had happened since then, and I couldn’t bring myself to feel anything but grateful for his presence in that moment, for the calm he granted me even as reality seemed to shift with a wretched understanding.

I was hiding from Wolffe; from the way his voice had threatened to break when last we spoke, from the tension that stole the effortless visage of command from him whenever we’d found ourselves alone. I was hiding from the squad that I could no longer think of as mine, from the longing in their eyes for a time that was now gone and would never again grant us the incredible breadth of comfort once gleaned from the sense of family we had found in each other, now felt only with a nostalgia tarnished by the horrors filling these past few days.

I wanted to weep anew at the thought of those coming farewell’s weighted beneath guilt and regret and the want for a denial we knew to be useless. In that moment, I longed to let myself be weak; to beg Hunter to tell Wolffe to leave that I wouldn’t have to face him at all, and I hated myself for that weakness.

The gentle dance of his touch stilled; fingers half buried in my hair as he subtly turned his gaze toward me; waiting. I drew a slow, resigned breath, held it in a final plea for even a few seconds’ more of a delay, and finally let it out in a controlled sigh as I pulled away from him.

“Thank you.” I whispered, eyes raising to just glimpse his. His thumb swept once more along the length of my neck before finally letting his hand fall briefly to my arm and then to the floor near his waist.

“Don’t need to thank me, Doc.” He replied softly, attention carefully locked on me. My lips drew up in an empty smile as I turned to glance thoughtlessly around the room. When I began to draw movement back into my limbs, weight shifting to balance atop a knee in preparation of forcing myself to my feet, Hunter quickly reached back out to me, arm looping around my shoulders as though anticipating the way my muscles would instantly waver at that first hint of strain. I was no stranger to the way grief and fear and panic left one so hopelessly drained yet always found myself unprepared for how ruthlessly that exhaustion struck. Unphased, I leaned into his support; let myself rely on his strength in the absence of my own as he carefully pulled me up alongside him.

“If we stay in here much longer, they might get the wrong idea.” I muttered, peaking towards him to see the way his brow cocked in surprise, but he let out a quiet chuckle at the weary smirk I managed to shoot him.

“The last thing I need is Crosshair hearing those kinds of rumors from regs…” He grumbled back, and I was shocked at how easily the huff of laughter escaped me. “Are you okay to walk?” He asked, voice dropping into a whisper as though that might prevent it from robbing us of that brief, precious moment of lightness. I nodded, forcing my back straight despite the reluctance weighing down my shoulders. “Alright.” He murmured and I tried to ignore the chill left in the wake of his touch as he slowly stepped away from me.

Whatever conversation had filled the silence beyond the office walls ceased with a harsh finality the instant that door began to open. I could feel Hunter standing just behind me, attention still following my every movement as though I might tumble without warning. Cody was the first to approach me, helm tucked under his arm and expression still somehow void of the disappointment I kept expecting to find.

“Commander, I-” He dismissed whatever attempt at an apology I was still trying to piece together with a simple wave of his hand and subtle shake of his head.

“Just get to the barracks and try to get some rest.” The innate authority in his voice was softened by a compassion that I still found myself shocked to hear from someone in his position and could only respond with a small nod.

“I can come back tomorrow – answer any other questions you have.” I offered, but he again dismissed it.

“Between what you’ve already told me and what I discussed with Commander Wolffe, there’s no need for that. Just take some time; try not to lose yourself in what happened.” He barely whispered those final words, willing them into me with a quiet understanding that I couldn’t begin to pretend I didn’t need. He ducked his head in a small bow before stepping past me into his office, and I hesitated just a moment longer before turning toward Wolffe.

“Guess I overestimated myself.” I mumbled, voice straining past the stiffness in my jaw, and I wasn’t sure how to respond to the subtle feeling of Hunter’s hand coming to rest against the armor sweeping across my lower back, nor my inability to deny the depth of comfort it gave me.

“No one’s holding that against you.” He replied softly before his gaze shifted to the man behind me. “Take care of her.” There was none of that disdain he’d once regarded Hunter with; no sneer of disapproval, and Hunter mirrored that unspoken respect with a silent nod.

“Wolffe.” I called hesitantly just as he’d begun to walk away, nearly cringing at the remorse in my own voice; the threat of shame. “I don’t… Will you tell the others I’ll be okay? I just… I can’t…” How could I explain the way it would cripple me to see their guilt again? To hear their apologies despite knowing they’d done nothing to warrant such sorrow?

“Don’t worry about them.” He explained, voice quiet but no less commanding for it. “Just be safe, kid.” There… just lingering beneath that infallible composure… Even Wolffe couldn’t keep the traces of an apology from his farewell. Gaze falling lest I note even a glimmer of regret in those stern eyes, I fought to offer some trace of a smile before turning away. The sense of finality in that farewell left my breath trembling slightly, and even the way Hunter shifted nearer to me did little to ease the sense of loss twisting through my chest.

“Cody’s already granting us clearance for the mission details.” He didn’t look at me when he said it, gaze once more hidden behind that dark visor as we walked unhurried through the corridors of the Negotiator. “You don’t have to, but if you want to talk about it…” My head fell slightly at the gentle invitation, and I knew he could hear how my heartbeat quickened at the mere thought. When I gave no answer, he didn’t press, but I couldn’t dispel the tension that lingered in the silence between us.

“I don’t think Wrecker’s ever going to let you go off on another mission without us.” He added a moment later, somehow managing to sow a wisp of humor into his voice, and a small scoff escaped me.

“Even if it’s the 104th calling you again?” There was something beneath the teasing lilt in his voice, but I was too weary to try to name it.

“Given my track record, I don’t think he’ll hear any arguments from me…” I grumbled.

“I didn’t know I’d be working with them this time until after I’d boarded the transport.” His helm shifted toward me, and I could easily picture the way his brows had surely risen above eyes widened with surprise. “But, no.” I added quietly, pace unchanged as I tried not to think too deeply on the painful words slipping over my tongue. “I don’t think it would be a good idea for me to work with them again.” Hunter stopped walking. I didn’t, intent on not falling back into the remorse that was all too eager to overwhelm me again.

“I’m sorry.” He murmured, treading back to my side. I gave a weak shrug, collecting my thoughts a moment before responding.

“Too much has changed… Besides, they have a jedi watching their backs. Without me, you lot only have dumb luck and sheer stubbornness.” A quiet chuckle just sounded through his comm system, and I found myself joining him in with a snicker of my own as his hand reached up to lightly jostle my helmet. It was heartbreaking – that conscious understanding that I no longer belonged with the 104th, but I had harbored no doubts that it was the right choice; that the 99 had become my family in a way the others never could.

“Doc!” Wrecker’s shout boomed through the nearly empty barracks, and I barely had time to draw in breath for a reply I never got to speak before his arms locked around my waist to hoist me up in an embrace far softer than his normal hugs. Still, laughter sputtered from my lips at the welcomed display of affection I would always treasure from the man, hand automatically darting out to his shoulder to steady myself despite the knowledge that he’d never let me fall.

“It’s almost like you missed me or something.” I teased, earning a brilliant smile from him that was so utterly free of shame or hesitation as he gently set me back down.

“Those regs need to find their own nat-born next time! It’s not fair for them to just come and steal yuh away whenever they want.” He complained, hands lingering on my hips for just a moment longer to ensure I was steady before stepping back.

Two rows of double bunks stretched out before me in a room designed to hold at least a company of one hundred though the entirety of it had been reserved for our tiny squad. Crosshair stood leaning against one of the upper bunks a few rows away with his arms wrapped tightly across his chest, attention locked on me from the corner of his eye while Echo and Tech sat together atop a lower cot a mere handful of strides from the door, the telltale mess of cables strewn between them warning of some half-started project.

“I don’t think you’ll have to worry about that.” I reassured him in a gentle sigh. “Pretty sure this was a one-time thing.” I could see the concern lingering in his gaze despite his efforts to hide it beneath his usual glee, the subtle threat of anger it fueled, and had to look away.

“Hey stranger.” I said softly. His chest bucked slightly around a sharp breath, mouth just beginning to open before closing tightly in a final bout of hesitation, but then he let out a small huff, forcing some of that tightness from his shoulders.

The instant I glimpsed him, the arc quick pushed himself to his feet, eyes torn between meeting my gaze and darting away as his jaw tensed around whatever attempt at a greeting caught in his throat. Had he been there when I first landed? Had I simply been too lost in my own thoughts to notice? My heart sank at the thought, just managing to offer the ghost of a smile in the face of how stiffly he held himself.

“Hey.” He whispered, and I heard clearly the apology in it, but it was nothing like those plaguing every word uttered amongst the 104th. There was a warmth in his apology; a subtle self-deprecation softened with something near enough to humor that my smile bloomed with relief.

“I see you two have been making the most of this little vacation.” I started, looking pointedly at the assortment of mysteriously procured supplies. He glanced quickly over his shoulder as though he’d forgotten the project entirely before turning back to me.

“Echo suggested a few interesting modifications to his cybernetic legs.” Tech stated before his brother could try to explain. “This is merely the initial prototype. Rebuilding his legs entirely will take significantly longer than a few days, but this will allow us to test the efficiency of our new design.” I looked back to the arc with surprise and found him fighting a sheepish grin.

My head fell toward my chest, stomach churning with regret for having offered at all despite Tech’s automatic “thank you.” Swallowing back the anxiety threatening to coil through my gut, I finally let myself glance toward the tall sniper still watching me from just the corner of his eye, and the little thrill of glee that seeing him shot through me offered a precious sliver of relief. He barely reacted as I approached him, head just shifting to follow my movements until barely a foot lay between us, and I let out a heavy sigh full of mock guilt and remorse.

“Wow.” I chirped, pleased to hear they’d managed to be so productive despite how strained things had been over the past few weeks, “Let me know if you need any help synching it to the neural interface.” Echo’s face darkened for barely the breadth of a heartbeat, but it was enough to remind me that the effortless connection that once came so easily to us still lay far beyond my grasp.

“I may have jinxed myself.” I muttered, and a quiet chuckle escaped me at the way he cocked his brow, unimpressed by my admission. “Was I right? Did you mope the entire time I was gone?”

“Yes.” Hunter called from the front of the barracks, kindling my chuckle into a short burst of laughter as Cross shot his brother a lethal glare.

“Just got back and you’re already trying to cause trouble.” He growled under his breath, earning a coy smirk from me. Only then did he begin to abandon that impartial veneer, weight shifting as he pushed himself away from the bunks to reach for me, and I could feel my entire body lighten with the deep sigh that fled my lips at that first rush of warmth from his embrace.

“Are you okay?” He asked, words barely audible as they danced through my hair. The rote reassurance so nearly fell from my lips absent a moment’s thought before catching in my throat. I could feel him tense in those brief seconds of hesitation before I reluctantly shook my head.

“Not yet.” I answered, voice heavy with every unspoken reason forbidding me from trying to convince him otherwise. “But I’m really glad to be back.” He went still for a long moment, but then his arms tightened almost harshly around me, body curling over mine as though he might hide me from what darkness lingered behind the veil of empty smiles.

We both knew there would be no walking away from the damage wrought during my time apart from them, but I let myself relish that moment of stillness; the hum of quiet conversation between Hunter and Wrecker, the rhythmic clicks and hisses of tools augmenting metal and wire beneath Echo and Tech’s ministrations, the steady thrum of Crosshair’s heartbeat dancing against me as I rested my forehead to his neck, shamelessly letting myself vanish in that heady spice and tang of blasterfire. Every day spent fighting this war brought untold risks and dangers, but I held no reservations that this was exactly where I belonged, and no threat was great enough to see me leave them for even a moment more.

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warsamongthestars · 23 days

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One of the most interesting things about TCWs Rex's character arc struggles is that, he's constantly put into contrasts.

Rex, as we know him, stands to be the main representation of a Clone Trooper. He's the first major named CT Character, that isn't Commander Cody, who doesn't have any ties to the films (Unlike Commander Cody), and thus can act and be written with far more freedom to explore.

[ You can't write Commander Cody too much by the end of the day, because one, years of expectations weigh, and two, he still has to shoot Kenobi at the end of everything. ]

Rex has two major conflicts in his arc, that represent the three defining points of clone troopers:

Loyalty to their Brothers

Loyalty to the System

Loyalty to themselves

Let's have some examples.

Our first major touch up with this, is the exact Opposite of all three: Sergeant Slick.

He is not loyal to his brothers (And gets a lot of them killed, whilst blaming the Jedi), he is not loyal to the system (He's a traitor), and he's not loyal to himself (He will make a lot of claims... which are unsubstantiated, because he gets a lot of people killed for purposes of greed and perceived slights).

This one is your easy Villain. Its easy to see, via Slick, that Loyalty to Brothers, Systems and Self is very simple.

But TCWs takes it a step further into complication.

Cut Lawquane, a deserter, is not loyal to the system (because it certainly isn't loyal to him), is loyal to himself, but is neutral when comes to brotherly loyalty.

( I say neutral, because he was willing to slay Rex if it meant staying free and his family safe. He did stop, because he's true to himself, and the self he wants to be isn't someone who kills people... Its just that sometimes, what is wanted, and what it is needed, isn't always the same thing. )

This is the first major bang up to Rex's Character Arc, because now we have a decent enough brother who is absolutely Not Loyal To the System that Rex is. And eventually, Rex lets him go, showing that while Rex is Lawful Good--he leans more towards good, whilst still retaining lawful plausibility.

This step slapped Rex, but it was a surprise he could easily, just simply, file away and not think about too hard. Deserting is going to happen when you're in an army of millions, and if they're off to be farmers instead of soldiers, well that's okay and a very nice thought.

The real kicker was Umbara.

One could argue that the Lola Sayu Mission should've hit Rex, but instead of Rex, it hit Fives the hardest (And with good reason). It's probably why there was an implication of a fallout between Lola Sayu and Umbara ("Just like Old times, Rex.")

And Fives becomes a contrasting challenge:

Loyal to Self

Loyal To Brothers

Neutral to Disloyal to System

Fives would bend the system until it breaks if it meant saving his brothers and more. He's the Chaotic Good to Rex's Lawful Good.

Rex is painfully upright and loyal to the system, so when one of his best and closest brothers decides "fuck this", it shakes him up.

Especially when Rex is finally confronted with how rotten the System gets: by General Pong Krell.

To contrast the contrast, on other side of Rex is Dogma, who is Fives' opposite. The Lawful Neutral.

Loyal to the System above all Else.

Neutral to Disloyal to Brothers.

( It does not help that Anakin Skywalker only recognizes Lawful as being Obedient rather than "adherence and or comfort to a code or set of rules" and thus draws more parallels between Rex and Dogma, than Rex and Fives. )

The Umbara Arc throws Rex through the whole loop, with all its conflicts. Especially the challenges it would make to Rex's whole character and showing him how far things can go.

Until finally, Rex finding what lines to draw in the dirt when it comes to "Loyalty to the End".

... But not enough to save anyone.

Then comes the Conspiracy arc, and while we don't know Rex's side, we do have implication of the aftermath.

The coverup of Fives' death (Because it would've had to been), by brother no less (Another big thing), and with the chip arc, which Rex did look into--would've put Rex up against someone he could not and would not possibly be capable of working through or against: Anakin Skywalker.

( Obviously for narrative purposes, Skywalker can't be stopped less TCWs became an AU instead )

Rex finds that his closest and brightest was labeled traitor and terrorist for his attack on the chancellor, via the very same bulletin points that Rex's character lives by, and it would immediately put him up against Skywalker.

The reason being, is that Skywalker is close to the Chancellor, and likely told Rex to drop any investigation.

And through speculation based on aftermath episodes... and What we know by this point...

I bet that Rex did not want to lump Anakin with Krell as a "System Problem". Because Rex worked with Anakin, and Rex's character falls in line with Anakin, and to consider Anakin to be part of the problem would go against Rex's character--thus, it is "unthinkable" and much easier to simply... Believe that Anakin has the best intentions.

( Even if that came at the cost of Fives. )

( Even though it would come at the cost of the 501st in the future--Rex only did enough that it would save his Life, and Ahsoka's, but nobody else's. He pays dearly for that comfort in Anakin at the cost of Fives, and the cost of Everyone. )

Moving to S7... and the Bad Batch.

Rex comes up against his absolute Opposite once more--in Sergeant Hunter, and the various Bad Batchers.

We've hit full circle.

Hunter commands a small squad that he pretty much lets do whatever, whilst Rex hangs on commands and commanding. Hunter is Evasive, Rex is Honest; Hunter gets stressed by Command, Rex does not.

Hunter is endlessly snarky, whilst Rex is straightforward. Hunter loses his faith midway through Mission, and Rex does not. Hunter's appearance is against all regulations, whilst Rex is clean shaven.

Hunter wasn't made for command, he just wasn't the stronger personality in the Batch to cause problems, whilst Rex is trained and made to command.

The one thing they do have in common, is loyalty to brothers, and the difference is--Rex doesn't hang on to anyone in lieu of the bigger picture, but Hunter does, existing in the smaller pictures.

( That's the TCWs implication-- If I went into the TBBshow, Hunter would not be coming out nearly as good. )

With the other batchers, Rex comes up against each one being individually against an aspect of his character.

Tech is disloyal to the system, he's as far from any sort of clone soldier you can get, and he's not even dressed for it. Tech comes in as a research first.

Wrecker is disloyal to self, bolstering about his skills and making light of the situation before it crashes on him. His disloyalty isn't a case of selling out--its a case of simply not considering himself in any measure. He puts others above him.

Crosshair is disloyal to brothers. He makes it a point to start shit in the middle of a mission, question authority, making disparaging remarks, and attacking a sense of self. The difference here is that, instead of accumulating falsehoods (like Slick), or physically attacking--he attacks the comforting falsehoods that a clone trooper would take on out of loyalty to brothers, system and self. If you're a brother, why don't you act it. If you cared so much for this one guy, why did you leave him behind. If you were that good in your little system, why did the specialists get called in. ( Crosshair is also a dick, but one can understand why he does things. )

Each Bad Batcher serves as a challenge to Rex's character. They are as far from Lawful as possible--but they are Good.

And then there was Echo.

But Echo doesn't serve as a challenge to Rex's character. If anything, Echo might serve as the "reward" for Rex's character arc. He saved at least one Brother, and one of his closest.

...

Unfortunately, Rex's full character arc wasn't ever really fully realized, because he is, fundamentally, a satellite character for other characters to bounce off of, even if those characters are other Clone Troopers.

( hell, Rex serves to contrast Cody, and neither of those too really had full Arcs )

Its why Fives took more attention in Umbara than Rex. Its why Ahsoka gets off scott free at the end of the day but Rex doesn't.

Its why when certain points of Jedi pop up, particularly that even our main character Jedi aren't really all that Lawful Good and do fuck up and waste a lot of brothers' lives for it, that Rex does not intervene.

Because, his character was never given that development to step in and tell someone to "Hey, stop, you are going to get people Killed."

A full Arc would've allowed that, and he wasn't afforded one.

A post TCWs Arc for Rex to get that Development, to fully understand all he went through and implement it into a new character arc, was implied with Rebel's Rex... but is currently unfulfilled.

( Don't be shocked that I don't consider TBBshow to count. )

But there ya go, a nice sum Analysis on Rex.

#star wars #star wars the clone wars #the clone wars #the bad batch #tcws tbb arc #umbara #captain rex #analysis

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masterjedilenawrites · 2 months

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Howdy!!! I was wondering if you could write about S/O asking their clone lover if they would get a vasectomy? I've never felt comfortable with birth control, with it having side effects and the chance of not working. But vasectomys seem very effective and are reversible! If you dont feel like doing all of the clones, you can just do the bad batch! Or just Crosshair, he's my favorite 😍. If you're not comfortable writing this, I totally get it! Thanks for reading my ask anyway! I love your writing!

Crosshair's my favorite too 😊

But let's throw all the bois and batch into this one... Except for Echo, who I headcanon to not have a fertile/working *ehem* member, so no worries on that front if he's your partner. Let's sub him out for... Gregor? Howzer? Ooh, wait, how about Bacara!

[18+ only below the cut, please and thank you]

Cody, Rex, and Kix are totally fine with this plan. Whether you don't want kids yet, ever, or any more, they will always defer to you in these matters. They don't have strong preferences and simply want you to be happy. If you're more comfortable with them getting sterilized over the alternatives, then your wish is their command.

Tup, Dogma, and Tech will want to do some research first, and discuss what your goals are with birth control as a couple. Permanent solution or temporary? Short and long term side effects? Cost? Etc. Once you're on the same page and decide a vasectomy is the right thing for your relationship, then they'll gladly do their part.

Jesse, Hunter, and Wrecker will blanch at the idea of getting snipped. They're very, um, sensitive over anything regarding their genital area. Don't get them wrong, they'll still do it for you, of course. But the thought kinda sorta really freaks them out, despite it being a routine, safe procedure. They'll need a pep talk and lots of aftercare to get them through it.

Wolffe, Fox, and Crosshair are actually thrilled at the idea. Maybe not about the process itself, but at the idea of having an effective way of preventing an unplanned pregnancy. The thought always secretly stressed them out. But if all it takes is a simple procedure and then you two can get intimate in whatever way you want with few to no consequences? Deal. Sold. Done.

Fives, Hardcase, and Bacara are also okay with getting the ol' snip-snip, though they will put it off for as long as you'll let them. They don't like the idea of having to take it easy for a while afterward - in their daily life as well as in the bedroom. When they do get it done, you'll have to keep a close eye on them so they follow the recovery plan properly.

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tcwmatchmakingau · 9 months

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Date Night Pt. 2

A/N: Finally finished! This was my first time writing Cody and first time including spice in a full fic, rather than a drabble. Those two things made this a challenge but I finally got it to a place I liked. I hope you all like it, too.

This starts partway through Pt 1 and shows how Cody's date went, so go check that out here if you haven't yet.

Pairing: Cody x f!Reader

W/C: 5,386 words (I let this one get away from me but I have no regrets).

Warnings: Spice/smut/lemon after the divider, Dom!Cody (brat tamer got a hold of me), bratty sub if you squint.

Dividers by @samspenandsword and @djarrex, respectively.

He was too nice. Honestly, he blamed General Kenobi. The man’s deep compassion that bordered on insanity seemed to have rubbed off on the Marshal Commander. That was the only reason he was here, in a dance studio that didn’t serve alcohol, dressed in the nicest and somehow most uncomfortable civies he owned, leading a stranger through the crowd.

Of course his date got there first. He just hoped Rex’s would hurry up. His brother looked ready to call it from nerves, and the night had barely started. And Cody was not about to be left here seeing as this whole matchmaking endeavor was his brother’s idea.

At least you seemed pleasant enough when you introduced yourself. A bit formal, if anything, but Cody wasn’t really going to complain about having someone as beautiful as you on his arm for the evening.

The movements the instructor called out, something called a triple step, was almost insultingly easy, and the pair of you mastered it rather quickly. With each step, though, Cody couldn’t help but look up and around, checking in on Rex.

“Do you want to try for real?” You asked, breaking the slightly tense silence mitigated only by the crowd around you.

“Huh?”

Your lips quirked at his distracted response, likely mistaking it for nerves. You were pretty when you smiled. “Like partner dancing. It looks like you picked up the steps pretty quick, so do you want to try them for real?”

“Yeah, sure.”

He let you lead, moving into the circle of his arms and resting your one hand against his shoulder, taking the other in yours without an ounce of hesitation.

“You’re no beginner at this, are you?” he questioned as his free arm draped across your back, unsurprised when you shook you head.

“No, but I don’t mind brushing up on the basics. It’s good to reaffirm foundations.”

Cody agreed with a hum, having found himself barking a similar sentiment to his men, though the foundations for their training was very different. “A good philosophy to have.”

“I think so, at least. Better to prepare than be caught unaware.”

“Are you always so pragmatic?” he asked, an eyebrow raising as he turned his attention fully to you for the first time.

You shrugged your shoulders gently. “I don’t think so, but my friends will likely say otherwise.”

“Maybe your friends are jealous,” he offered, earning a delicious, full laugh for his efforts.

“No, definitely not. They’re rather fed up with me usually, but they still indulge me.”

Unsure how to answer beyond an approving nod, Cody let the conversation drop.

The two of you settled into a nice rhythm with your movements. The silence was still a bit awkward, but not unpleasantly so. Though with each turn, he kept his eyes scanning the crowd for a buzzed blond head.

A small smile curled at the corner of his lip seeing his brother swaying not very gracefully with his date, both smiling like idiots at one another.

Looks like he doesn’t need my help anymore.

It wasn’t quite relief, more like sweet satisfaction that rolled through him at seeing his brother really let go and enjoy himself.

Surprisingly, Cody was having a good time, too. More than he anticipated he would, at least. The dancing was different than what he’d experienced in other bars and clubs and while he wasn’t one to shy away from a night out with his men, it was never his choice activity for leave.

But this? Swaying and gliding smoothly across the floor to a song he could actually hear the words to, matched step for step by a beautiful woman? One who, based on first impressions at least, was intelligent and composed?

He wouldn’t mind doing this again.

“You keep checking out the other girls here and I may get jealous.” Your tone was light, teasing, but there was an edge he heard just underneath. Your face showed a similar pleasant mask as he realized he had been turned away from you for a bit.

“That’s not what I’m doing.”

“Oh no?” Your tone that time was sharper, the edge peeking through and Cody realized he was losing control of the situation.

“No, and I’m sorry I gave that impression,” he sighed and pulled you slightly closer. “The truth is I didn’t want to be set up. But my brother did, and he wasn’t coming without backup. I couldn’t let him fly solo or he’d get stuck in his head. That’s who I’ve been looking at.”

Deftly timing his steps, Cody circled the two of you around so you could see Rex and his date more clearly.

“He’s a good man, just awkward beyond belief when off the battlefield. I guess I felt I owed it to him to act as his wingman tonight.”

He looked back down to you, only to find you had leaned forward, almost pressing your forehead against his chest as your shoulders shook.

“Kark, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you cr-”

But when you looked up, you weren’t crying. Mirth from your laughter danced across your face and for a genuine moment, there was no other thought in Cody’s mind besides imprinting that sight into his memory forever.

“No, no, I’m sorry. I accuse you of having a wandering eye, but we’re playing the same game.”

“I … what?”

“See her?” You pointed slyly at the girl in Rex’s arms. “She’s my best friend. I am looking to find someone, but the only reason I went through a matchmaker is because of her. She’s usually so nervous meeting new people that she clams up, so she thought an arranged date would help — no guessing if the person is at least open to a relationship. But the first rule of girl code is you don’t let your friend meet a new guy on her own. So … here I am, keeping an eye on her, ready to break a nose if I have to.”

At that, Cody let out a braw laugh, one that came from deep in his gut. You certainly were something else.

“What? You don’t think a girl can throw a punch?” Your indignation may have been genuine, he didn’t have the best read on you yet. But the traces of your smile made him believe it was a farce.

“Oh, I have no doubt the damage you can do, little one,” he teased, turning you both away from your friends. They seemed happy enough on their own, anyway, and he now wanted to enjoy his night to its fullest. “But I’ve been whipping Rex into shape since we were cadets. If in the incredibly unlikely event that he earns a punch, I’d be happy to deliver it on your behalf.”

You tilted your head as you crooned, “My hero,” sarcasm lacing your tone and igniting a fire in his gut.

But your jovial expression faded slightly as your eyes cut back across the room. “Unlikely, huh? So … he’s a good guy?”

He wasn’t sure if you realized how much you revealed of yourself in that moment. How the confident mask slid completely off to show the care and vulnerability beneath. You couldn’t have realized, he decided. But he still selfishly took the gift of your trust that he most definitely did not yet earn.

He would, though. He wanted to, at least.

“One of the best. Your friend couldn’t be in better hands.”

Slowly, your eyes glide back up to his and you smile again. But he can see the difference now, and this one isn’t a mask.

“Hmm, I think there may be better hands to be in tonight.”

Cody swallowed a growl at your implication, ego stoked by the hunger in your eyes as they raked over his face.

“Oh?” he prompted.

“Mm-hmm.” You stepped closer, pressing your front against his softly enough to give him room to step back if he wanted out. He moved forward. “But I don’t want to share.”

Cody knew how to wield his body like a weapon, not just on the battlefield but off to keep his men in line around the clock. His gaze, his voice, his posture all served to force excited shinies and wayward troopers to behave to regulation. He put all that knowledge to use as he pinned you with his gaze, eyes unwavering as he bent forward and invaded the last of your personal space, pressing his forehead to yours.

“You don’t ever have to share,” he promised, meaning every word if you would let him in. A grace he asked for gently, pressing his lips lightly to yours, keeping his eyes on you even as yours fluttered closed.

The moment he pulled back, the tip of your pretty pink tongue slid out to slide along your bottom lip, tasting him again, before you opened your eyes again to stare straight through him.

“Then let’s get out of here.”

“You know, this isn’t exactly what I had in mind when you suggested leaving the class.”

Cody looked down — again — to check his movements against the complex pattern of steps marked on the flimsy on your floor, dotted lines connecting outlines of feet to show proper motion and placement. But the music was too fast and the rhythm too unfamiliar for him to accomplish his goal with any grace.

“You were the one who said that class was too easy, and I was still promised a dancing date. Gotta get you to my level before that can happen, don’t I?” you teased, leaning against your kitchen counter, watching him with bright eyes and a smile hidden behind the rim of the glass you were sipping from.

Or you could pick an easier style.

The thought was ungracious, and Cody would never admit defeat anyway. But still, it rubbed him wrong that such an easy civvie activity was this much trouble to master.

“Here, let me,” you offered, placing your glass down and slipping in behind him. And he did let you, resting his hands lightly over yours as you pressed yourself against his back.

“You want to rotate your hips when you step. It’ll make your movements more fluid and help you keep the beat.”

He felt the heat of your breath seep through the back of his thin shirt and radiate down his spine as your hands began moving his hips as you desired.

It was odd, giving someone else this much control over his body. It wasn’t strictly unpleasant — he very much enjoyed the weight of you against him and the subtle way you tried to hide how you would press your hips into his ass with each rotation. But it felt a bit too much like charging into battle without a strategy or even a map to locate his target.

Cody was, for the first time in a long time, flying blind.

But you seemed to have it all mapped out. Gently, you nudged your toe against his right heel, pushing that foot forward as you did the same with his right hip.

“Just like that,” you praised. You must have looked up, because this time he felt your breath tickle the fine hairs at the base of his neck. He shivered, and he didn’t need to see you to know you felt it.

“Where did you learn to dance this way?” he asked, trying to focus on anything besides how badly he wanted to turn around and show you a different kind of dance, one he would take the lead in.

You kept nudging his feet into the next step, slowly turning him in a circle. “I learned when I was a teenager. I needed a physical outlet and the woman who owned the local studio offered free classes if I worked the front desk on weekends.”

“A physical outlet?”

He wasn’t sure if he was imagining you tightening your grip on him, but he tightened his hold on your hands in response regardless.

“Yeah … I had a lot of stress and anger at the time, and it got me in a bit of trouble. A teacher recommended writing or crafting to calm me down, but I couldn’t sit still long enough for any kind of hobby like that. Timing worked out that I found the studio just when they needed someone. It didn’t take long after for me to fall in love with dancing.”

Flashes came to him of hours spent splitting his knuckles on a weighted bag, muscles straining after a too-long training session that still hadn’t washed away the pain and frustration after a mission. Those images soon faded to new ones, imagined ones of you, pivoting and moving gracefully, the power evident in your limbs as you move forcefully through the music he can’t hear.

“So you still take classes?” He hoped you wouldn’t hear how his voice caught.

You chuckled, only a little mocking. “I teach them now.”

It was a funny comparison, but with each facet of yourself you revealed, Cody thought of it like another level of Coruscant — polished and clean on the surface, but with so much hidden underneath. And he wanted to explore them all.

“And do you give every student such … hands-on help?”

For a moment, his heart stuttered as he felt your hands slip away from his sides. But the disappointment was soothed seconds later as you slid around to his front, finally facing him again. Gods you were gorgeous.

“Only if he’s got promise.” Everything from the tilt of your lips and tone of your voice to the way you arched against him screamed “tease.”

And Cody knew how to handle a tease.

Done with pretending he didn’t want more, pretending he wasn’t thinking about every other way your body could move against his, he gripped your waist and pulled harshly until there was no room between you. The position forced your neck back to keep eye contact, and his knees almost buckled at the sight.

“I’ll show you promise, little one.”

His lips descended on yours, claiming them thoroughly without any room for argument as he walked you backward to press you into the wall.

How you opened up to him, without a hint of hesitation, was even sweeter than the taste of you on his tongue. Cody relished it. So when you put your walls back up and tried taking control, your hands delicately sliding to the front of his pants, he caught your wrists and lifted them, holding them firm in one hand over your head.

Pulling away from the kiss, he let his eyes feast on you, pulled taunt and on display before him.

“Let me touch you,” you ordered, pulling against his hold.

He nipped at your pout.

“No.”

Cody dipped his head to continue nipping, gentle but firm, down the smooth column of your neck. You writhed against him, and he wasn’t entirely sure if it was from his denial or his bites. He smirked. Either way, you were slowly coming undone beneath him … just as he wanted.

He slipped his knee between your legs. “You wanted to see promise. So I’m showing you all I promise to give.”

You weren’t subtle. Your hips moved almost desperately to find friction along his thigh. But he kept it intentionally just out of reach. Just so you would feel it there but be unable to take your pleasure.

You’d learn it wasn’t something to take. Only something to be given.

And from the huff that sent your chest heaving right before his eyes, it was a lesson you were going to insist he teach the hard way.

“Okay, you got promise.” Your admission sounded like vinegar to the ears and Cody imagined it tasted even worse. He loved it. “But it’s no good if you don’t follow through.”

His free hand trailed up from your waist to skim across the outside curve of your breast. He knew the sensation must have felt so dull with so many layers between his fingers and your skin. Which made it all the more satisfying when you arched into the touch you could barely feel.

He wondered how it felt in your imagination. Craved to see how you’d react to the real thing.

“And yet just the promise has you so flustered.” He leaned forward again to pull your earlobe between his teeth, smiling around his prize at your sharp inhale. “I wonder just how far I can push you on the promise alone.”

“Cody, come on!” It wasn’t a whine, not really. But he bet it was as close as you ever let yourself get to one.

Until tonight.

“That’s not how you ask for something, little one.” Pulling back to his full height, Cody brings his free hand to tilt your chin up. “Try again.”

Your raised eyebrow was met one of his own. An incredulous unstoppable force meeting a confident unmovable object.

Oh, your stubbornness was beautiful. Hardened and shaped by circumstances he had only just begun to learn, it was a mark of your strength and resilience. But it wasn’t your core. And he was determined to push past it to see that vulnerability from earlier. This time given just for him.

“Come on, princess. Just ask nicely and I’ll take care of you.” His lips pressed to yours again, still firm but slower this time. Sensual. A different type of promise unspoken as his hand moved to pull your hips closer, holding you securely but gently to him. “I’ll take such good care of you.”

A whine, needy and pitchy, rang out so beautifully for him as he felt your resistance melt away.

“Please, Cody. Please let me feel you.”

He rested his forehead against yours so he could see your desperate, bright eyes.

“Good girl.”

He released your hands which fell to his shoulders immediately, using the leverage to pull yourself closer as he moved forward to kiss you again. Now free from holding you back, his own hands slid under the hem of your top to skate along the warm expanse of your lower back. An indulgent moan tore through him, sparking one of your own in response.

You responded to him the way you did to the music earlier, naturally falling into the perfect rhythm, letting him lead you as he pleased. Satisfaction sung in his blood as your tongue danced along his but bending to his will.

Pulling away then was one of the hardest things he’s ever done. But he was going to do this right. And that meant moving out of the living room.

“Now, you’re going to show me to your bedroom, you’re going to get undressed, then you’re going to keep behaving so I can make you come harder than you ever have before. Understood?”

You tilted your head and pursed your lips as if really considering his commands as a proposal, the silent challenge already igniting his blood again.

“But what if I want you to strip first?” Your hand slipped to cup his erection before he could stop you.

“What if I want you in my mouth first?” You bit your lip enticingly as you pressed against him.

“What if I want to make you feel good first?” You squeezed him but too lightly for him to feel satisfied.

You were going to be the death of him. You were used to getting your way, and no wonder. What sort of man could refuse that offer. But Cody wasn’t just any man. He going to make you follow orders or die trying. And if death came for him in your bed, he would thank every star for his fortune.

He knelt slightly to lift you into his arms, groaning at the heat he could already feel radiating off you.

“Then I’m not going to stop you,” he started, making his way through your apartment. You pointed him in the right direction and he pivoted, smiling at the look of victory on your face. “But I will have to punish you after.”

Confusion drew your expression tight. Gods, you were a precious thing, weren’t you?

“Punish?”

Cody dropped you onto the bed, enjoying the way you bounced and flailed to regain your balance.

“Of course,” he husked, crawling over to trap you beneath him. You reacted perfectly again, like you knew each step already as you laid back and welcomed his bulk, hands at his waist to secure him to you. “Good girls follow orders. Bad girls do what they want. So bad girls get punished.”

Running his hand under the front of your shirt, Cody slowly began lifting the fabric, his lips tracing each inch of newly exposed skin.

“And do you know what that punishment is?” he asked as your bra — a pretty, lacy thing — was revealed to him. He pressed hot, open-mouth kisses to the fabric just above your peak.

Your whimper had him repeating the process on your other breast.

“Do you?” he asked, pulling back to look at your flustered face, eyes pleading in a way he’d soon get your mouth to join.

You shook your head and whispered, “No.”

With a smile at your disheveled state, Cody rocked his length into your core, gritting his teeth to hold back his own groan so he could indulge in yours.

“Punishment means you don’t get to come.”

Sliding back, he hooked his fingers around the waist of your trousers and pulled as he settled on his knees in front of the bed. Grabbing your thighs, he slid you to the edge of the mattress before pressing against the inside of your legs, spreading you open for him.

He nearly lost control right there. The sight of your glistening sex blooming for him tested every ounce of resolve. Maker, he did this. He made you feel this way. And he was only getting started.

“So, I’ll ask once again,” he warned, his hand coming to trace the outside of your lips, pulling at the flesh to expose even more of you to his hungry eyes. “Are you going to be good for me? Are you going to let me fulfill my promise?”

His patience was thinner than a razor’s edge, so when your answer wasn’t immediate, he doled out his first reprimand, bringing his hand down firmly but without too much force on your wet cunt. The slap echoed sinfully in your bedroom, drowned out only by your cursing.

“Fuck!”

“I need an answer, little one. And I need it now.” His voice was more gravel than honey, forced from his vocal cords desperately as he sat too close to what he wanted only to be left in limbo. “I’m going to eat this pretty pussy. I just need to know if it deserves to come.”

It was the last straw. Your confession and consent poured out of you like a damn bursting, “Please! Please, I’ll be good, I’ll be so good just please let me feel your tongue!”

Cody didn’t keep you waiting. He dove in, determined to reward you for being so good. He focused his attention on your clit, working over the sensitive bundle of nerves with firm strokes, moaning into your heat as your hips moved against him, riding him to increase your pleasure.

He needed more from you. He needed you undone.

He sucked your clit into his mouth, pulling harshly until he felt your hands grip his hair, tugging at the short strands.

“Maker, Cody, just like that.”

He soothed over the area with a gentle lick before repeating the process, delighting in your cries at the sensation. Your nails scraped along his scalp and he welcomed every pass, the slight pain grounding him and affirming just how good he could make you feel.

When your legs began to shake around him, he dipped down to press against your opening, pushing his tongue just inside your channel to feel the muscles quiver at his touch.

“Yes, yes, yes right there. Fuck, I’m gonna cum, I’m gonna –”

And he was sure you were about to cum. But before you could, he pulled away.

“NO!”

Your scream brought a smirk to his face. Stripping quickly, Cody crawled back over you, pulling your legs to rest over his hips before gripping your waist. Every inch of you looked as utterly wrecked as he felt, from the tangled mess of your hair across the bedspread to the wide, pleading eyes that bore into his.

“I said I was gonna be good,” you whined, demanding your release. He was starting to love the sound.

Reaching forward, he guided your torso up just enough for him to remove your shirt and bra, finally bearing you completely to him. His hands trailed delicately across your collar, down the swell of your cleavage and finally across the peak of your nipple. With a sharp inhale, you arch into the touch, accidentally coating his length in your slick.

“I know, princess, I know,” he cooed, soothing the sharp sting of denial with his words as his hands gripped your waist. “That was punishment for teasing me earlier. Couldn’t let that slide, now could I?”

He gave you a pointed look, and you shook your head slightly, resignation coloring your features.

“But with your punishment out of the way,” he started, shifting his hips to place his tip at your entrance. “I can finally give you your reward. Would you like that?”

You nodded eagerly, but that wasn’t quite enough for him.

“Words, little one. I need to hear you say it. Would you like me to make you come on my cock?”

Your eyes locked with his in a final moment of clarity.

“Yes,” you breathed like a promise.

He was losing himself. He didn’t even make you say please that time. He couldn’t. Couldn’t bear waiting another moment to sink into you with you so willing beneath him.

In a slow but steady push, he felt your walls split around him, welcoming him home. Your hands squeezed his forearms, nails leaving half-moon smiles along his skin.

Part of him wished they’d scar.

Fully seated inside you, Cody could feel every spasm as you worked yourself up around him. “Shh, relax,” he ordered softly, bringing one hand over your lower belly and pushing down to still you. “Just relax.”

He left his hand there to keep you in place. Your head was tossed back, eyes closed tight in an expression of pure, unfulfilled desire, your mouth open but void of any sound. Reaching forward, Cody slid his free hand under the base of your skull, tilting your head forward and biting back a groan as the new angle let him sink even deeper into you.

“Look at me.”

Your eyes fluttered open and met his.

“There’s my good girl.”

Good girls get rewards.

Cody waited for your smile to break all the way across your face before pulling out slowly and sliding back into you with controlled force. You tried so hard to keep those eyes open and on him, only letting your lids slide down halfway at the pleasure.

He repeated the motion, finding his own rhythm to drive you wild. Slow but powerful thrusts broke down every shred of resistance until you were putty in his hands, taking all he had to give you.

“Kark, you take me so well. Like you were kriffing made for me,” he praised, his voice barely more than a whisper but the way you tightened around him confirmed you heard it.

“Do you like that? Do you like knowing how perfect you feel? How good you’re being for me?” He growled loudly when you tightened even more.

“I do.”

Your breathless admittance had him moving faster, snapping his hips to yours with increasing pressure and forcing the sweetest cries from you.

“Don’t stop! Fuck, Cody please don’t stop,” you begged, your desperation fanning the fire inside him further. Nothing could get him to stop now.

Your hands fell from his arms to trail along your torso, catching his ravenous gaze.

He leaned ever closer, bending over you so his stomach brushed against yours as he kept his pace. “Go on.”

Your hands moved higher slowly, cupping your breasts and squeezing until the soft flesh spilled from between your fingers. You bit your lip, a moan clearly on your tongue you arched, offering yourself to his mouth.

He didn’t hesitate. Pushing forward, he wrapped his mouth around the tight bud of your nipple and sucked hard, delighting in the hoarse cry that burst from your mouth.

But it wasn’t enough.

“Put your fingers in my mouth.”

And you obeyed, reaching up to press the tips of your fingers against his lips. His tongue darted out, sucking them in and lavishing them until they were soaked.

“Touch yourself. Let me see how you make yourself feel good.”

He returned to your breast, suckling hard as he watched your fingers tease your other bud, a chorus of cries harmonizing with the repetitive wet slap of his balls against your cunt.

It was too much. He could feel the edge approaching and he couldn’t stop it. Didn’t want to. But first, you.

Releasing your breast with a sinful pop, Cody leaned back to rest on his knees, pulling your hips even higher. Once you were settled, he pressed harder on your lower belly as his thumb found your clit, swiping hard over the sensitive nerves.

“I’ve got you, princess,” he promised, pounding into you frantically now, needing to feel your release. “I’ve got you. Now come. Come for me, my good girl.”

Nothing could have prepared him for this — how spectacular you looked as your orgasm took you, your back arching, using the leverage from your hips to impale yourself completely on his cock, your head tilting back to expose your throat to him. Or how fucking tight your walls constricted around him, pleasure so complete it bordered on pain until, with one last thrust, his own climax crashed through him, whiting out his vision for a moment.

He could feel the spasms of aftershocks running through you, milking him dry as he held firm above you. As much as he wanted to stay buried in your heat, he had to pull out, not wanting to risk overstimulating himself.

At least, not this time.

Even with his training, Cody was still out of breath. But you? You were a mess, shaking and panting in the aftermath of his attention. Rolling to the side, Cody lay back, pulling you to him and grounding you in his arms as he whispered praise and affection into your ear, his hand running soothing passes along your back.

Eventually, your breathing evened out and you tilted your head back to look at him.

“There she is.” He smiled gently, bringing his hand around to cup your face and press a tender kiss to your lips.

“Hi,” you whispered, matching his smile.

“Hi,” he replied, pressing his forehead to yours. “I should apologize. I did intend on discussing all of this with you first.”

You shook your head against his. “It’s ok. You gave me plenty of outs. And I’m not sure what I would have said, anyway. I’ve … I’ve never really done anything like that before. I didn’t … didn’t think I’d like it.”

You bit your lip and ducked your head slightly, but you never looked away. A swell of pride coursed through him at your boldness.

“And you did? Like it, that is?”

He laughed at your answering nod.

“Words, pretty girl. I need to hear it if you want that to happen again.”

You rolled your eyes, and he delivered a swift yet soft swat to your behind, intently intrigued by the soft gasp of your response. He made a note to come back to that later.

“Try again.”

You leaned up so barely an inch of space existed between you.

“I liked it,” you said. “I really, really liked it.”

“Good,” he confirmed as he settled you both in for the night.

Just before sleep claimed him, Cody realized he had to thank Rex for being such a nervous wreck. He hoped his brother’s date went well, otherwise the little punk would never let him live this down.

#tcw matchmaking au #clone matchmaking au #212th Attack Battalion

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ghostofskywalker · 11 months

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Hey Tori! Sliding in with a 3k (yay!!! congratulations🩷) request for Echo our most beloved <33

I am forever thinking about that one scene where Echo says "Harm her and you're a dead man". It lives rent free in my brain and never fails to make me smile the ways is says it is just so-

So maybe something with Echo being a little extra protective over the reader? Looking out for them and making sure they stay safe?

thank you ezzie!! he is just So Lovely!! i don't know if this is anything like what you had in mind but i really hope you enjoy this :)

words: 1,750

summary: rationally, echo knew this assignment was going to be easy, an in and out acquisition of information. he's just annoyed that he's not the one playing your lover at that gala tonight.

clone troopers masterlist || join my 3k celebration!!

Under a Watchful Eye

Echo watched from his seat in the cockpit as you stepped out of the barracks area of the ship, and the dress you were wearing stopped his breath for a minute. It was long and flowing, fluttering and shifting around your legs with every step you took, and the fact that the color was a near-perfect match to that of his old battalion was not helping.

But unfortunately, he was not the one you were dressed up for.

Technically, the mission was the reason that you had donned the gown that had apparently come from Echo’s deepest fantasies, not a person. But still, this assignment required two people, as you were going undercover as guests at a banquet. And much to his dismay, it wasn’t him that had the privilege of being the one who played your lover this evening.

No, that honor had apparently been bestowed on Crosshair.

Logically, it made sense why you and Crosshair were the ones going on this mission. Even though there was little to no Separatist presence on this planet at this point, you couldn’t risk being recognized, and Crosshair was the member of the team that looked the least like a traditional clone (and he was also the least likely to draw attention to himself in the way that the others would).

But even though it made sense, it didn’t mean that Echo had to be happy about it.

He knew his brother, he knew that there was no way Crosshair would willingly put you in harms way or leave you behind, but there was still a festering cauldron of worry in Echo’s stomach as he thought about the fact that all he could do at this point is just sit and wait until you left the function. He would have to sit by if something happened to you in there, and he hated the thought of it.

“Do I look okay?” you asked, stepping into the cockpit as you finished putting a pair of earrings in your ears. As well as matching the color of the dress, they would serve as a communication device that could easily be turned on and off from a remote location, this way if anyone tried to scan you, nothing would show up. That was Echo’s job this evening: to sit there with Tech, Wrecker, and Hunter and listen to everything that went on while you and Crosshair were gathering the information they would send back to Commander Cody.

It took him a moment to realize that you were talking to him, and his eyes widened slightly before he responded. “You look amazing,” he said earnestly.

“Thank you,” you responded, and he could see the hint of a smile cross your face. “I wasn’t sure how the dress would look, since I don’t usually wear this type of thing.”

“Well, I would never know it if I just looked at you,” he said, the urge to walk over to you and take your hand only growing. “I mean it, you look stunning.”

You opened your mouth to respond, but were interrupted when Tech stepped into the space. “Oh good, you’re here,” he said, directing his attention to you. “Come with me, I have a few things for you to add to the ensemble.”

The “extra defense” had been Echo’s idea, a way to ensure that you would be able to defend yourself if necessary. Just in case everything went wrong, he wanted to make sure that you made it out unscathed, and it would be a lot easier if you had a tiny blaster strapped to your leg.

Right as you and Tech walked away, Crosshair stepped into the cockpit. He was a wearing a suit, the tie matching the color of your dress perfectly. Somehow he had found a way to cover his tattoo, and Echo hated to say it, but the image of you and him together screamed “power couple” to anyone who wasn’t aware of your identities.

The only thing wrong with Crosshair’s look this evening was the scowl etched onto his face. “Do you have all the information from Cody about the mission?” Echo asked, wanting to make sure they didn’t miss anything.

“Yes.”

“And you remember where we’re going to meet you when you have the intel?”

“Yes.”

“And you know-”

“Echo,” Crosshair said, cutting him off with a matching glare. “I already got this lecture from Hunter, I don’t need it from you too. I promise that I won’t let anything happen to your girlfriend.”

“She’s not-”

“-Your girlfriend, I know,” Crosshair said. “Even though you’re acting like it right now.”

“I’m-”

But Crosshair silenced him with a look. “You’re questioning me like I’m brand new to the team, and you haven’t been able to stop glancing over at the entrance to the barracks. It’s not that hard to figure out that you have feelings for her.” Crosshair was right, but Echo did not want to admit it. “Look, if you don’t want to say anything to me it’s fine, but don’t lie to yourself about it.”

Echo was suddenly very glad to see you step back into the cockpit, because he had no idea what he was going to say to that. However, that happiness was tempered slightly when he realized it was time for you and Crosshair to leave. After one final check to make sure that everyone was up to date on the plan, he sat down in one of the seats in the cockpit and watched you walk away until you were too small to see.

Security was bypassed, and you and Crosshair had successfully infiltrated the banquet. This was an assignment that spawned from an unnamed informant to the Senate, so they didn’t have as many details as they would have liked about what was going to go down, but so far it seemed like everything was going to work out and no major catastrophes would happen.

“Do you see anyone suspicious?” you asked quietly, and you voice easily carried so that the rest of the team could hear you through the small device that Tech made to communicate with your earrings.

“Not right now,” Crosshair responded, his voice slightly quieter. “But I don’t think we’ll have a good vantage point from where we are now.”

“Where should we go?”

“What about over there?”

They could hear shuffling, so it was clear that you were moving somewhere, but the fact that this device only picked up audio was starting to get a little annoying. Echo wanted to see what was happening, rather than just hear what was being said.

Suddenly the music suddenly got a little louder, and his curiosity only grew.

Finally, your voice once again came through the radio, and he was allowed to imagine some of what was going on out there. “Wow Crosshair, you didn’t tell me you were such a good dancer.”

“I’m a man of many talents.”

“I’m sure.”

It was only for the mission, it was only for the mission, it was only for the mission, Echo kept repeating to himself. Although he understood the fact that you and Crosshair were going to be posing as lovers for this event, he didn’t really think about what that might have entailed. The thought of you dancing with someone that wasn’t him was almost too much, but he forced himself to keep his cool.

***

Trouble always found them, there was no way they should have expected anything different with this mission. After you and Crosshair had acquired some very interesting information from another set of guests (which sounded a hell of a lot like what they needed to bring back to Cody), Tech was right about to tell you and Crosshair to meet the rest of them back at the ship when the sound of blaster fire came across the communication device, and they realized something was wrong.

Instantly, Echo jumped into a frenzy. “What’s going on?” he asked worriedly, pulling the radio device up to his lips.

“Bounty hunters just showed up!” you whispered. “I don’t know what they want though.”

“That doesn’t matter, you need to get out of there, now!”

Crosshair’s voice came through the device next. “Wow, what am I? Chopped bantha?”

“You know I meant both of you!” Echo responded, rolling his eyes. He didn’t have time for the jokes right now, not when you were in danger. “Now, before anyone sees you!”

All they could do was wait until you and Crosshair could be seen through the windows of the cockpit, and it was taking a much longer time than Echo was comfortable with. Although the communication devices you wore were still technically active, the sounds of footsteps and general chaos really were not of any use to them when trying to determine your location.

Finally though, the two of you were bounding up the ramp of the Marauder, and Tech was pulling the ship off the surface of the planet and back into hyperspace. None of the other batchers batted an eye when Echo got up from his seat and made a beeline to where you had just walked in.

Crosshair had already disappeared, probably having gone into the refresher to wash whatever was hiding his tattoo, and you smiled at Echo when he got close enough. “Are you okay?” he asked, noticing a few rips near the bottom of your dress.

“I’m fine,” you responded, reaching out to take his hand. “We got out of there just in time, no one even noticed us leave.”

“But-”

“We took a shortcut through some woods and the shoes they sent me weren’t really meant for anything too extreme,” you said, laughing quietly as you reached up to place your other hand on his cheek. Echo’s gaze traveled back up to your face, and he couldn’t help but fall in love with the smile you gave him. “I promise, everything is okay now.”

“I know,” he said, too busy drowning in the sensation of your fingertips touching his skin to really worry about what he was saying. “I’m glad you’re safe.”

“Me too Echo,” you said, pulling your hand away from his face. Echo would have been upset at the shift if you hadn’t leaned up and placed the softest of kisses on his cheek. It felt like his skin was set aflame, your lips permanently marking his face; it was evidence that he’d always be yours, even if you didn’t know it yet. “Me too.”

- the end -

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guardian-of-fandoms · 2 months

Text

"WHAT WAS HE THINKING?!?!"

Kade pounded against the translucent barrier, the skin of his knuckles growing white.

"He's going to get himself killed!!! He can't take on his morocco alone, he could've died the last time!!"

Charlie grabbed Kade, gently pulling him away.

"Kade. I need you to calm down, son. We'll figure this out, we'll find him."

Kade's breaths were heaving, his eyes burning.

".... Something is wrong here, Dad. Something is seriously wrong. Think about it!"

"What do you mean?"

".... He told me I- his Kade- used himself as a Shield for him. Don't think for one second I wouldn't do that, because I would. But... Why was he there at all?"

".... He should've been in the command center..."

"Yes! Why was he there? We would've NEVER intentionally brought him somewhere potentially dangerous, so why was he there?"

Charlie was stunned, as he realized Kade was right.

Something wasn't adding up.

Graham suddenly pushed past them, peering through the barrier.

"Heatwave! Are you alright?!"

Heatwave groaned, struggling, but still trapped in place.

"I'm stuck, but i'll live."

Graham frowned, trying to remember what he could about the Alternate Cody's gear.

"He let Doc and I study his equipment when we were fixing it up. That looks like the same type of EMP block he used on Blades, Chase, and Boulder earlier. It should wear off in about Ten minutes."

"We don't have ten minutes!"

Kade nodded, meeting heatwave's gaze.

"Please tell me somebody knows how to get out of here! We need to find that hothead before Morocco does!"

Dani leaned down, staring at the metal blocks generating the barrier.

The blocks were engulfed into the barrier, Dani's hand getting stung by the sparks as she tried to grab at it.

"Ah!"

"You okay?"

Blades leaned down, and Dani nodded.

"Yeah, just stung me."

Doc, examining another block, suddenly paused.

He pushed his hand against his block, before glancing over at Dani, seeing the sparks flickering from her block.

"... Dani, I believe you just found our escape! Chase, we need you!"

Chase gingerly made his way over, as Doc explained,

"The blocks generating the field all appear to be linked, and this one appears faulty!"

Dani nodded, smirking at the fading red mark on her hand.

"I get it, take out this one, and we're free."

Doc nodded, then motioned to chase.

"Chase, if you can disable the block with the right voltage, it should dissolve the entire barrier."

Chase nodded, extending his Tazers.

"I would suggest getting back."

Everyone crowded to the back of the dome, with Blades and Boulder standing in front of the humans.

Chase leaned close to the faulty block, charging up his electricity.

He let the charge built, then blasted, plunging his wrists against the block.

"AUGH"

Chase couldn't help his cry, pained from the voltage shooting through him, but held steady.

"YOU'VE GOT THIS, CHASE!!"

"HANG IN THERE, PARTNER!"

Chase steeled himself, and with a final surge, he was sent reeling back, gasping.

"Easy, buddy!"

Boulder was quick to stabilize him, Chase letting out a quiet groan of pain as his wrists sputtered and sparked.

But the block faltered, and the dome flicked, before completely disappearing.

Everyone cheered, Chase regaining his strength as Charlie patted his leg.

"Great work, Partner, you okay?"

"I am operational, Sir."

Boulder made his way to Heatwave, prying off the EMP device.

"Better?"

"Much."

Heatwave stretched, haunted by the pain in the other Cody's face.

"... I don't get it, I really don't... It killed him to do that..."

Kade came up beside him, nodding.

"Something's wrong here, and If we don't find him NOW, He's going to get himself killed!"

"Working on it!"

Doc and Graham were huddled over another tablet, when Charlie's phone dinged.

"Griffin Rock Emergency- WHAT?! Okay, Okay, we're on our way, try to remain calm."

Charlie's face dropped, the fear showing in his eyes as he relayed to the team,

"I just got a call from the school, Cody and Frankie disappeared from the campsite."

"WHAT?!"

Doc gasped in horror, nearly letting the tablet fall to the ground, Graham scrambling to grab it.

"OH, DEAR!"

"We'll find them, they can't have gone far."

There was a ding from the tablet, and Graham's face paled.

".... Oh no...."

"What, did you locate him?"

Graham silently turned the tablet screen around.

A frigid terror swept over the team, as the tracker pointed to the woods.

The alternate Cody's eyes were glued to the screen of Doc's tablet, the chime telling him he was going in the right direction.

The case for the EMP hung heavy at his side, forcing him to constantly shift his weight to stay steady on the hoverboard, but heavier was his guilt.

His eyes still burned with dampness, but he forced himself ahead.

No turning back now.

Not after betraying the ones he came to save.

The board wound through the expanses of the woods, the glow from the power core and his arm casting eerie lights through the dark trees.

The tablet chimed, and he scanned the area intently.

He was close.

"You can't hide from me, Morocco."

"Ah, there you are.... Who says I was hiding?"

Cody heard the voice but couldn't see the source.

He spun around in a tight circle, scanning the trees as he scrambled to adjust his supplies, the gold energy crackling around his cybernetic.

"SHOW YOURSELF!"

His glitched, garbled voice seemed to echo from everywhere.

"How fascinating.... The intricacies of another reality are oh so fickle, are they not? So similar, so different. And yet.... You were drawn to them..."

"I tried to avoid them, keep them out of this, they didn't exactly give me a choice."

"You say that now.... But we both know you were tempted. The family you lost, just as they were before they... departed."

"YOU DON'T GET TO TALK ABOUT THEM!"

He leapt off the hoverboard, his helmet opening as the gold glow in his eyes illuminated the fury etched across his face.

"YOU TOOK THEM FROM ME!!! EVERYTHING I'VE DONE HAS BEEN SO I CAN TAKE MY REVENGE, GET JUSTICE FOR MY FAMILY!!"

The snap of branches caught his ear, and he whipped around, his focus steeling at the sight of the looming figure, bathed in darkness.

The monster's piercing red eyes cast an unsettling glow across the shadows, Cody instinctively raising his arm out, letting sparks crackle along his fingertips.

"How ironic... You've devoted yourself to destroying me, and yet... We're quite similar, you and I."

"I. AM. NOTHING LIKE YOU!"

He fired a blast, the gold energy shooting through the darkness, only to collide against the monster's metallic chest as he stepped forth.

Morocco emerged from the shadows, his tall, twisted form on full display, allowing Cody to see the repairs in his frame, miscellaneous pieces of scrap used to patch the damage.

As the gold energy struck his metallic frame, his chest opened, revealing the fractured purple gem beneath the metallic plating, and Cody could only watch as his own energy was absorbed by the gem.

A garbled, glitched laugh escaped Morocco, his arms outstretching.

"Everything you've done to destroy me has only made me stronger. Just look at yourself, Cody Burns, you say I am less human for upgrading myself, but haven't you done the same?"

"Upgrades?! I lost my arm in the explosion, you CHOSE to make yourself into THIS!!! I became who I am now because it was who i needed to be to survive! You're nothing but the ghost of a madman."

Morocco began pacing, stalking through the darkened foliage, circling Cody like a shark.

"How long do you intend to play this little game? You wish to tear me apart, but tell me. Who's truly suffered in your pursuit of me? How many bridges have you burnt? You claim yourself willing to sacrifice it all in the name of my death, but tell me me, Cody Burns. Tell me which of us bears the pain from this chase?"

Cody turned, following him closely.

"I never said I don't have regrets."

"You've pushed them away, haven't you? Doctor Greene, Francine, even the Firebot. You walk a desolate, destructive path, all for the sake of one of our deaths. But out of the two of us, the only one suffering, is you."

Morocco came to a stop, looming over Cody.

"You destroy yourself more and more. But all you have done to oppose me has only made me stronger. You aid me now.... Just as you did back then."

Cody felt his blood boil, dropping the case to the ground as he hopped back aboard the Hoverboard, his helmet closing over his face.

"ENOUGH!"

He glowered, then lunged directly at him.

The hoverboard left a glowing streak behind it as Cody flew through the air, circling the artificial madman.

He pulled another black box from his pocket, and shocked it with his electricity, watching a it split in half, revealing the thick, compressed cables he'd used to restrain the Rescue Team earlier.

He dipped low, diving underneath the twisted metal arm, allowing one of the metal blocks to latch onto the arm, secured through the magnetic lock.

"You menace!"

Morocco grabbed at him, but he was able to dodge, wrapping the cables around the robotic limbs.

Cody leapt off the hoverboard, using his momentum to swing himself in an arch around the other arm, launching himself through the air, slinging a disk down at the ground with another blast, pulling himself back onto the hoverboard just as the disk exploded.

Morocco cried out in outrage, the blast and his tangled limbs knocking him forward, and he collapsed onto the ground.

Cody leapt down onto his back, his eyes hardened as he pressed his cybernetic against the metal shell.

"You have something of mine."

His arm started glowing, pulsing and sparking as he concentrated, feeling his own power within the old shell.

He let it flow through him, embracing it, feeling his energy return to him.

He didn't notice the plating of the twisted limbs split apart, tearing into the cables.

"You amuse me, Cody Burns."

Cody grit his teeth together, not saying anything as he focused on the energy.

"You came here alone.... You had the opportunity to see the ones you ache for... and you threw it away. You cast such a chance aside, a chance you will never receive again."

"This isn't their fight. This is my mission, and my mission alone."

"Such a selfless ideal... But we both know, you hide more than you admit. It kills you, does it not? To see such familiar faces... and to know... They are oblivious to what you've done...."

Cody froze.

"I assume you haven't told them, anyhow."

".... Shut up."

A snapping of cables and shriek of metal caught Cody off guard, and he cried out as he was suddenly struck by a metal arm, being thrown to the side.

Morocco ripped the cables off, his piercing red eyes fixated on the boy below him as he loomed overhead.

"You know they'd hate you, if you told them. You look at the faces of the ones you've lost and know that if they learn the truth, They'd hate you. Just as your real family would."

"SHUT UP, SHUT UP, SHUT UP!!!"

Cody struggled to catch his breath, absently dragging himself across the ground, crawling desperately towards the EMP case.

"You hate me, Cody Burns. But you will never despise me more than you despise yourself. You torture yourself every day of your life, simply because you live and they do not. Anything I could do to bring you pain, I know you will never feel more agony than the heartache you already feel."

"STOP. TALKING."

Morocco leaned down, his twisted frame leaning over the horrified boy.

"You'll never forgive yourself, because you can never forget how you've helped me."

".... What?"

Cody felt his heart jump into his throat at the sound of Kade's voice.

The rescue team emerged from the trees, Cody's heart pumping faster by the second.

"NO, NO!!! GET AWAY, PLEASE! YOU SHOULDN'T BE HERE!"

Kade stood at a distance, he and Heatwave standing the closest.

"What's he talking about? What does he mean, you helped him?"

".... Don't listen to him. Please, please, don't listen to him..."

A garbled laugh escaped Morocco, the monster pulling himself upright.

"My my.... how very interesting.... By this point, i'm quite you know the fate of your Counterparts, do you not?"

Charlie nudged Doc behind him, keeping his eyes steady.

"Col- Cody, listen to me. While we certainly don't appreciate that trap you set, we can understand that you were scared, you wanted to protect us. But listen to me. Alternate Dimension or no, you're family, and we just want to help you. Let us help you get justice for what happened, you don't have to do this alone!"

Cody only pulled himself to his knees, his head bowed low.

"... I don't deserve you.... I...."

"Tell them."

Morocco cocked his head, his tone simple and flat.

"Tell them. Tell them what you've done."

"No... no please.."

Kade felt his teeth grinding together, snapping,

"WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?!"

Cody could only glance around the team helplessly, before one of Morocco's hands suddenly split apart, revealing a writhing mass of wires, which reached out to ensnare the boy, wrapping around him tightly as he was thrust up into the air.

The team tensed, everyone trying to think of what to do, as morocco used his other hand to tightly grip Cody's head, forcing him to stare out at the team.

"Go on now, explain. Explain to them all one simple truth.... You, Cody Burns, killed your family."

Dead silence swept across the woods.

Cody went limp in Morocco's grasp, a shudder overtaking him.

Kade and Heatwave met each other's faces, as Charlie let out a strangled,

".... What..."

"I didn't want to... I didn't want to..."

Tears streamed down Cody's face, his eyes closing as shame and guilt flooded him.

"It was all my fault... It was me..."

".... How?! Why?!"

Morocco pulled his second hand away, gesturing to the woods.

"Perhaps a demonstration will enlighten you."

He snapped his fingers, and out emerged two small figures from the shadows.

"No..."

"NO, YOU MONSTER!"

Cody and Frankie emerged on either side of Morocco.

They had glassy, vacant expressions, their movements were slow.

But what stood out most, were the phones clipped to their jackets.

Morocco drank in their horror, savoring the fear and panic saturating them.

Charlie and Doc gripped each other's hands, seized by the mutual fear from seeing their children in such a state.

"... Cody?"

"Frankie, my Little Archimedes?"

Neither answered, only staring blankly ahead.

The Alternate Cody started thrashing around wildly, screaming,

"YOU MONSTER!!! THEY'RE JUST KIDS-"

"You were about their age when it happened, were you not?"

The alternate Cody thrashed about wildly, his restrains only growing tighter.

"YOU TOOK MY CHOICE FROM ME, WHAT RIGHT DO YOU HAVE TAKE THEIRS?!"

"IS SOMEBODY GOING TO TELL US WHAT'S GOING ON HERE?!?!"

Kade shot a glance over at his dad, seeing him also trying to piece together the story.

"Those Phones... Madeline Pynch made those!"

The alternate Cody gasped amid his struggle.

"Wait, there's a Madeline Pynch on this world too?!"

Through her stupor, Dani nodded.

"Yeah... she used them to control the entire town once, our Cody was the only one not effected."

Something clicked inside Kade.

".... Oh my god.... You were mind controlled, weren't you?!"

All eyes trained on him, as he met the team's gaze, tears staining his face.

".... I just wanted to help you all.... My Kade and I had a bad fight... he told me i shouldn't be on the team, i got mad. I went around town to clear my head when... I saw him... And I decided that if nobody believed I could help the team, then I needed to- HAD TO- prove myself, so I followed him. I found an old warehouse where he was hiding out, i was going to spy on him, find out what he was planning, and warn my family.... But... but..."

"You were caught."

Morocco gripped him tighter, a sneer on his digital features.

"Your foolhardy mission of arrogance was destined to fail. And once I had you within my grasp, I found it only fitting to make a pawn of the boy who'd so often been a thorn in my side. And I found just the use...."

Cody would never forget his fear in that moment.

Morocco had loomed over him, tall statured even before he had traded his flesh, cold as he ordered the Moor-Bot to seize the terrified boy.

The tears rolling down his face as Morocco held out the phone, and then....

Nothing.

Even now, he remembered the static.

The buzzing in his head,

The white nothingness that had plagued his darkest hours, it haunted him.

"And now... you bear the guilt, the consequences of your actions."

Kade locked eyes with the other Cody, feeling the pain in his heart.

".... It was all my fault... It was all my fault... If i hadn't tried to prove myself... If i had listened to you... if i had just stayed out of the way... You'd still be alive..."

Morocco chuckled darkly.

"It wasn't me who deliberately crashed that loathsome hoverboard into the statue. It wasn't me who put on quite the performance over the emergency line. And... it certainly wasn't my hands on the detonator."

The team all shot glances at one another, struggling to comprehend this turn of events.

"I'm sorry.... I'm so sorry...."

His voice was hoarse, broken and choked by sobs.

Morocco leaned in close, his tone mocking.

"You were supposed to die alongside them, with no knowledge of what you'd even done. But.... You survived. The truest of irony, I suppose. You lived, and thus, you torment yourself far more then I ever could. You condemn yourself to isolation, you've set yourself upon a path of ruin, if only to justify your actions under the false comfort of redemption. You believe if you die for my destruction, then you receive some fleeting sense of absolution, a balance for the deaths you've caused."

The clawed, razor-like finger of the other hand pinched his face, tight enough to draw blood from his cheeks as he turned his head, making him stare at each member of the team, before forcing him to stare at the two children, blankly staring ahead.

"You are going to die, Cody Burns. You are going to die by my hands. But not before I force you to watch as I destroy another team right before your eyes, and only then will i end your suffering, burdened with the knowledge that one act of defiance cemented the fates of so many."

He released the claws, gesturing towards the entranced children.

"I am a man of science, and i do believe in experimentation. I've destroyed the primary members once before, and so, I remain curious."

His second hand extended in length, the sharp claws tousling the younger Cody's hair slightly.

"Will this team destroy themselves as you did, If i kill these children before their eyes?"

The bots had to physically grab their partners, to keep them from lunging at Morocco.

The alternate Cody struggled to string together a single word, his heart feeling as though it was going to burst in his chest, his lungs burning and bile bubbling in his gut.

But as he hung loose in the monster's grasp, his could move his arm ever so slightly.

As stealthily as possible, he cautiously worked his hand into his pocket, his hand closing around one of his explosive disks.

He met Kade's panicked eyes, and slowly nodded towards his hand.

Kade caught sight of the disk, his eyes widening, and Cody's eyes flicked to his other hand, holding out three fingers.

Kade understood the silent message, and glanced up at Heatwave, who'd caught the same signals.

The three of them waited on bated breath, as Cody began to count down.

Three.

Kade and Heatwave braced themselves.

Two.

Chase struggled to gingerly contain Charlie and Doc, the horrified fathers thrashing about wildly in his grasp.

One.

Blades was forced to hold Dani in both hands, Graham frozen numbly from shock, Boulder struggling to brace both Graham and Blades.

Zero.

Cody threw the disk, Morocco barely having time to process what had happened before the explosive detonated.

The monster shrieked, the blast shattering his focus, his arm jerking outward, flinging the Alternate away.

Heatwave raced into action, grabbing the alternate as gently as possible, before lowering him to Kade.

Kade threw his cybernetic arm around his shoulders, the Alternate clearly winded, having been too cloes to the blast.

He gasped and heaved for breath, one hand clutching his torso tightly as he hoarsely shouted to Heatwave,

"THE PHONES.... GET... THE PHONES.... BREAK THEM AND THEY'LL BE OKAY!!!!"

"YOU HEARD HIM, TEAM, SAME RULES AS THIS WORLD!!"

Everyone snapped to attention, Charlie sighing as Chase's grip loosened.

"THAT'S OUR PLAN!!! LET'S MOVE!!!"

Kade didn't like the Alternate's harsh breath, nor the nicks on his face from morocco's claws.

"Hey, are you-"

"I'm not important."

Despite his buckling stance, he pulled away from Kade, a determination in his eyes.

"We need to focus on your Cody and Frankie now, please."

Kade hesitated, his gut telling him that something was wrong, but he nodded.

"Let's get this jerk, for both our families."

"Let's."

Kade rushed to regroup with the others, as the Bots charged Morocco.

Cody watched him go, before slowly pulling his hand from his torso, greeted by a crimson stain.

a long, thin metal shard had just slipped under his chest-plate, piercing through his skin.

He stared at it a moment, then grit his teeth, and charged forward.

No time to loose.

#transformers rescue bots #tfrb #cody burns #kade burns #dani burns #graham burns #doc greene #frankie greene #au #rescue bots au #Multiverse Cody AU

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inkformyblood · 4 months

Text

close enough to hold (CWFKB #23)

@codywanfirstkissbingo fill for Messy kiss, returning to Tatooine husbands with ex-Purge Trooper Cody 💜

It shouldn’t be this difficult.

Grief snarls in Obi-Wan’s chest, just as easy to access as it had been that first evening when the universe burned with soundless screams that tore fresh scars into his soul. It aches behind his eyes, in the uneven clench of his jaw that threatens to tear a tooth free and that wouldn’t be right but it feels like it would be fair. Paint drips from the brush he’s holding — knuckles as white as the wash in the tin, tremors rolling through him like a quake — and pools across the worn-thin fabric of his trousers. He watches the stain spread, blinks once, twice.

The brush goes back into the tin.

Obi-Wan covers his face with his hands and slowly sinks back onto the floor.

He’ll regret it later. There’s a twinge in the pieced-together foundation of his hip, another in his thigh, and he’s not a young man anymore. He couldn’t dip his fingers into the blood of the universe and tug his beloved’s datapad away just to hear him laugh before the admonishment lined up in the agenda was delivered. The floor is cool, a thin layer of sand settling over the gentle slope, and Obi-Wan considers lying there forever until the desert wears away the hut walls and scatters his bones. If he is going to lie stationary, he’ll need a pillow at least.

Grief and love, love and grief. Too close at hand and yet, never when Obi-Wan expects them to be. A soft sound echoes from the other side of the room and Obi-Wan draws one hand back, the world swimming back into a hazy focus. Sunlight spills across the floor from the uneven crook of the blinds, fragmented lines dividing the room as neatly as cell bars, trapping them both here. No. Obi-Wan has trapped Cody with him when he reached out with the lifeblood of the universe flaking on his palms and snapped the control chip in his former Commander’s head in two. Cody had fragmented, a holotape overwritten too many times, too many ghosts lined up beneath his skin, and Obi-Wan had taken him home.

And now he’s sitting in a living room he never thought would exist, paint drying on the walls and his clothes and in the tin, the man he loves so fiercely that it will consume him sooner rather than later watching him silently, and his hands won’t stop shaking.

“Could you—“ Obi-Wan begins, grinding the words out around the monument to grief constructed in his throat. He’s mourning a man who’s still living, still here. It will take time, time they have by the fistful now that the war is a distant mention and memory. “Could you say something, please, Cody?”

Cody tilts his head to one side, pushing the motion past the limit of human comfort. Something in the pit of Obi-Wan’s stomach recoils, bracing himself for a snap or a crunch that he will be able to taste beneath his teeth, sour and staining the hollow of his throat. Cody’s eyes are dark, his expression near enough unreadable with the slice of shadow across his face and the measured stillness of his hands.

Obi-Wan’s fingers spasm, his nails biting into his thighs.

“You’ve got paint on your cheek.”

Obi-Wan raises one hand, his fingers tapping against his cheek and he chews on his tongue to keep back the scream that threatens to erupt. There is a fresh stain of white across the pads of his fingers and he sinks back onto the floor with a groan. Staying here until he decays sounds more and more inviting by the minute. Cody sounds almost like himself — his face still caught in shadows that deepen the ridge around his eye and as expressionless as a droid, but his voice had been warm, a teasing note just tied to the flourishes. Obi-Wan can’t look at him, can’t see the man he loves settle back into effortless compliance that he can’t seem to rouse him from.

One of the things he had carried from Stewjoni had been a bedtime story, twined with the distant memory of a hand smoothing over his hair, the sense that he is safe and warm and nothing could ever worry him. He’d been wrong, of course, but he remembers the story well enough. It had been typical for a bedtime story at first, a young man setting out on a quest that ends with him finding his true love cursed to sleep for a thousand years. He’d kissed him to seal the vow to wait alongside him and that had broken the spell.

Cody is closer now, crept along the jagged edge of shadow and sunlight. His palms are rough, a lifetime of fighting leaving its mark, but he cradles Obi-Wan’s face as if he’s something delicate, something to be treasured. Obi-Wan lets him and doesn’t think too much about the fragility of his neck. It would be quick, near enough painless.

He doesn’t expect the press of Cody’s thumb over his cheek, damp with spit, a frivolous waste of water that they count in sips and mouthfuls.

Obi-Wan opens his eyes, a question perched on the tip of his tongue, and Cody clears it as he leans over and kisses him. His lips are just as rough as his hands, but he kisses carefully, his breath a warm rush of air against Obi-Wan’s skin. He draws back an inch, Obi-Wan leaning into him but is stopped by Cody’s thumb against his cheek.

“There,” Cody says, his face still blank but there’s a glimmer in his eyes, gone between one blink and the next. He turns his attention back to the wall, his hand falling from Obi-Wan’s cheek, to hold an uneasy sentry once more.

Obi-Wan breathes deeply, salt and heat searing through his lungs, and he picks up the brush once more.

#codywan #Star Wars #commander cody #obi wan kenobi #cwfkb2023 #cwfkb #cody x obi wan #my writing #fanfic

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commanderfoxdeservesbetter · 9 months

Note

Fox is very "You're On Your Own, Kid" coded to me

He totally is! I got this idea while listening to the song so not entirely sure if it fits but really hope so

CC-1010 was already up from the med bed, pulling on his boots with shaky hands. Morphine courses through his veins still yet it can’t stop the pain that pounds with every heart beat.

Heartache.

A metaphorical pain for the removal of a figurative person.

At least that’s what it should have been. The pain is real, as is the sinking of his stomach and the burning behind his eyes.

The chip lies meticulously on the side table, taunting CC-1010 of what he removed. Who he removed.

He should have fought harder. Maybe even told the truth, but they wouldn’t have understood.

Or maybe they would but then he’d be pitied and the last thing he or Fox needed was their goddamn pity.

CC-1010 stood up, barely resisting the urge to sit back down from the dizziness that overcame him. He barely took a step forward when the medbay doors opened.

“Fox!” Cody smiled as he walked towards the bed and CC-1010 squashes the need to correct him on the name. Rex and the rest of the batch are behind him, as is Thorn and the other CG commanders.

“How ya feeling, Fox?” Wolffe asks and CC-1010 has to look away from their intense stares.

How Fox did it was a mystery; of course, it was in his program. A metaphorical persona created by the chip to follow orders. Why wouldn’t he know how to do it?

CC-1010 mutters “fine” and hope they take the hint to leave him alone.

They don’t.

Cody’s smile dips faintly. “Fox, are you okay?”

CC-1010 thinks back to the conversation he had while under anesthesia, the one where Fox realized he wasn’t the real clone, who cried as he was forced to stay behind as CC-1010 had to take the steps forward to wake up.

CC-1010 wishes Fox kept his mouth shut about the blackouts, the anomaly he experienced when “under the chip” - because every clone remembered being under the chip. They didn’t have control but they remember their actions, their words, their everything.

Fox didn’t.

Of course he wouldn’t. He was the chip.

CC-1010 wishes Fox kept his mouth shut; now he was forced to live a life he’s barely experienced since the beginning of the war, only partaking in the missions Palpatine gave him.

It was a quiet life. Easy. He was able to watch Fox as he did the grunt work, the dirty job, only stepping in when need be but now…

“You made the wrong decision,” he says finally and Cody’s face shifts. Changes from confusion to the stone-cold expression CC-1010 has been used to since he was a cadet.

Fox made the step forward to be close to his batch. CC-1010 only cared to survive long enough to get off Kamino.

“You’re not Fox.”

Simple. Easy. Truth. A head shake signifying no. A thump to the ground. A too loud cry. Dropped faces. Broken expressions. Betrayal. Pain. Disbelief.

CC-1010 wonders if they would have felt this way if it was him to have been taken out…murdered by suicidal choice.

Because it was ultimately suicide. Fox wanted the chip out. He wanted to be free from orders and a lack of control. CC-1010 was the only one to argue against it but everyone thought it was because he was trying to save himself.

“I told you not to.” CC-1010 feels pity for the clones who stand before him, wishing for a persona that was barely even real. He dug into their pain even further with a “You didn’t listen,” as that could make up for the fact that his…his…he doesn’t know what Fox was but he was gone now. He can never come back and it’s all their fault.

They. Didn’t. Listen.

The nauseating anger that rose up when Cody turned his face away as though it would hide the fact that it is CC-1010 who stands before him and not their precious Fox has CC-1010 snapping.

The punch wasn’t worth it, nor was the cursing. But by then, CC-1010 was already pushing against the small crowd to leave the medbay.

He didn’t need them. He’s never needed them.

#star wars #tcw #the clone wars #clone wars #commander fox #commander thorn #commander cody #captain rex #commander wolffe #cc 1010 #you’re on your own kid #suicide mentioned but it’s not really - idk how to explain it

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valkeakuulas · 5 months

Note

What's this about mistletoe prompts?

How's about some Cohawk that is silly?

Please?

I tried to find the number for silly from the prompt list here but I guess you just suggested a random idea. No matter, silly Cody/Wooley AKA Cohawk it is! 🧡🧡

Mistletoe : Silly

"What is that?"

The question held only three words, each perfectly enunciated, said in a perfectly bland tone.

But.

Wooley heard all the questions underneath the question just as clearly as he could see the tiny, repetitive twitch of Cody's lips.

Where did you get that?

Why are you wearing it?

Please answer me before I'll do something extremely unprofessional.

That's what Cody was truly asking.

"It's a CCMT, sir," Wooley chirped as he tilted his head. The spring shifted with the movement, the bundle attached to it now hanging next to Wooley's temple.

Cody's eyes followed it, tracking the piece like a curious felinoid. "CCMT?" he repeated slowly, little crinkles appearing in the corners of his eyes.

Wooley nodded, emphasizing the gesture more than he'd normally do. It caused the green bundle to shake like a pendulum, and Cody's gaze followed, eyes glued to it. "Clone Commander Mistletoe Trap, sir," Wooley replied, his grin bright and eyes mischievous.

It was easy to pinpoint the second Cody got it:

The twitching turned into a true smile and the crowfeet deepened when Cody let out a loud snort-chuckle.

"Clone Commander Mistletoe Trap, you say?" Cody said, looking rather at ease for a man who had walked straight into the aforementioned trap.

"Yes sir," Wooley nodded, mock-serious. "There's a way to disarm it, though."

Cody raised an eyebrow, his smile turning sly. "Oh? And what would that be?"

"I can show you if you want?" Wooley suggested and he took a step closer, bending his head: the fake mistletoe, attached to his hairband with a bendable spring, now arched over Cody.

Cody's gaze shifted upwards and Wooley used the opportunity to plant a quick kiss on Cody's lips. He grinned when he both felt and heard Cody gasp in surprise. It took a second for Cody to realise what was happening, pressing forward as he tried to kiss Wooley back but Wooley was quick to lean away.

"There, you've disarmed the CCMT, you're free to go, sir," Wooley informed cheekily and he tilted his head so that the spring shifted to the side again.

The confusion on Cody's face lasted maybe a second before his eyes narrowed.

Wooley felt his insides twist in anticipation as he watched Cody reach for the spring. Holding Wooley's gaze, he grasped it firmly and bent the metal, holding the fake mistletoe over his head.

"Oh no, it seems like I've been caught again," Cody mock-lamented, the deadpan tone making Wooley shake with mirth. "Curse this CCMT for being so effective. I guess I have to make sure that I'll disarm it properly this time."

Wooley's laughter, bubbly and bright, was muffled when Cody leaned forward for another kiss.

** ** ** ** (A/N: Springy mistletoe headbands are real. I didn't know that before tonight.)

#Commander Cody #Wooley #Star Wars: The Clone Wars #asks #elismor #OTP perhaps?#clone shipping #fanfiction #valkeakuulas writes AKA butchers English grammar #askbox writing prompts

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elthadriel · 23 days

Text

Codex Week Day 7: I'll Find You There

Summary: Cody rounds on Rex. One step is all it takes to trap him, Cody in front of him, the fire burning at his back, endless sky above them. “Don’t you fucking dare act like you want this more than I do.” Rex is all he’s ever wanted. Rex is a kinder man than he is, but his temper is icy. It builds slower and grips harder. “Don’t I? You’re the one who keeps leaving.” It’s not fair. He wants to stay. He has to leave. Rating: E Tags: Rebellion Era, Established Relationship, Arguing, Fist Fights, fighting to fucking, Unresolved Emotional Tension, the sexual tension gets quite resolved, Rebel Rex, Cody as Fulcrum, Ambiguous/Open Ending, Inspired by Brokeback Mountain For @codex-week day 7: Farewells and Reunions and alt prompt Still from Brokeback Mountain.

Campfire smoke smells different to blaster smoke. It’s rich and natural while blaster fire smells of plasma and hangs like acid in the air. Cody makes the connection anyway, the part of him that is Purge Commander 2224 straightening up in his saddle, eyes scanning the harsh landscape. They’re exposed out here, the trees too far to provide cover, and the stretching lake offering terribly long clear sight lines.

The Empire would never think to look for them here, but if they did, they’d shoot Cody and Rex before they even knew they’d been tailed.

If PT-2224 chased a Jedi out here he would—

Rex is sitting by the fire, in clothes borrowed from Jalo, the same rebel who had provided Cody’s. Rex wears his far more comfortably. He looks like he could belong here in a way Cody doesn’t think he could.

Rex looks up and if not for Cody’s dalgo being far less affected by Rex than Cody is, they’d have come to a complete halt. It’s easy to forget in the weeks, months, years that pass between these stolen moments how exposed Cody feels when Rex looks at him. Rex’s smile is nervous and tentative before blossoming into something too big for Cody not to return.

Cody swings his leg over his dalgo. His foot catches in his stirrup—he’d take a speeder over this any day—and he’s barely hopped free before Rex collides with him. He’s laughing at Cody, but then he’s kissing him, pinning him back against the dalgo, gripping him tightly, mouth bruising.

Rex kisses what’s left of PT-2224 right out of Cody.

Desperation makes them clumsy, teeth knocking, tongues too wet. Cody stumbles and the dalgo huffs, shaking her head, frills fluttering like she can dismiss them like she would an insect. Cody grabs at fistfuls of Rex’s jacket, holding him tight until he remembers how to be Rex’s Cody again.

He’ll have to pick up the abandoned parts of himself again, pull them all back around him when he drags his armour out from under Jalo’s floorboards, handing back his borrowed dalgo and clothes. He hasn’t got long. The Empire will miss him, and the Rebellion will miss his intel.

For Rex he makes time, though never as much as either of them would like.

Read the rest on Ao3

#codex #cody x rex #rex x cody #cody/rex #codyrex #cloneshipping #cloneship #my fic #codex week #codexweek2024 #rating E

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staycalmandhugaclone · 1 year

Text

(Reposting because half of the tags didn't work... fic response to this Ask)

If you're new, this all starts with Touch Starved - Echo! Additional references to Difficulty Breathing and Fever.

Wrecker Special Request

More then Skin Deep – Wrecker - Doc notices something about Wrecker while training and offers her help.

Warnings: Light sexual tension, reference to past injury, disabilities and light prejudice from appearance - It's mostly just some softness fluff.

WC: 2,262

So much had happened since the cave. Between the fallout from my rash discussion with Commander Cody and the nightmare of Tech’s exposure to that wretched fungus, there’d been little time to just breathe. Now, however, we had at least another week of med leave while the still shaken pilot continued regaining his strength, and there was little else to do except think.

Panting, I leaned wearily against the wall, absently watching the others continue their training routines. Hunter was running Tech through hand-to-hand drills, padded gloves darting around the taller man almost too quickly for me to keep up with, but Tech rapidly struck each one in a blinding rhythm as they danced around the sparring ring, training blacks long-since soaked through with sweat. Crosshair and Echo were ‘not’ racing each other as they ran sprints, and Wrecker was just finishing with the free-weights.

Nothing was quite so humbling as being in the same room as five elite commandos while training… nor was there anything quite so distracting. The skintight fabric emphasized each divot between hard-earned muscle now void of even the memory of emaciation. Even Echo was beginning to regain mass in earnest – enough for Hunter to requisition a larger set of armor for him.

I’d finished my intended workout over an hour ago, but the others showed no signs of slowing. Finally yielding beneath even the hope of keeping up with them, I allowed myself a moment to catch my breath, jaw hanging open as my torso rocked beneath the desperate flutter of my diaphragm, trying not to let my eyes wander.

Even from across the room, I caught the quick words of encouragement as Hunter pushed Tech to move faster, strike harder, and I could hear the proud smile in his smoky voice, could see the gleam of pride burning through Tech’s determined glare as the powerful muscles of his lean form rippled throughout the entirety of his body to drive each punch barreling toward his brother, and the way Hunter’s broad shoulders rolled to absorb those punches, the way his abs tensed to steady his balance… Both were a marvel that I had to tear my eyes away from, but the rare grin on Crosshair’s lips, that tiny hint of glee in those sharp eyes as his long strides overtook Echo’s blistering pace was no less mesmerizing.

The fraction of a second those nearly golden eyes flashed to mine, the sudden realization that I’d been staring – that he caught me staring, sent my heart racing anew, cheeks burning beneath a violent rush of heat.

“Done already, Doc?” I turned to find Wrecker treading almost lazily toward me, massive hand dragging a rag over his forehead to mop up the sweat beading atop caramel skin flushed from exertion, and I welcomed the excuse not to see Crosshair’s reaction to my misplaced attention.

“Already?” I scoffed. “I was done ages ago… You guys are making me look bad.” The gentle chuckle that shook through his towering form was the perfect balm for my still racing heart.

“Maybe I could help yuh next time. Havin’ someone with you makes it more fun!” The brilliant grin that pulled at my lips in the wake of his innate joy was so automatic, I barely noticed it anymore.

“Wrecker, if I try to work out with you, you are not allowed to laugh at me.” A brief flash of surprise followed instantly by a burst of excitement bloomed across his face.

“Don’t worry, Doc! I’ll go easy on yuh!” Before I could comment on his ‘going easy’ still being far beyond what I considered naturally possible, something about his stride caught my attention. It was such a little thing – the faintest misstep, shoulder just tilting to the side for barely a moment before correcting himself, but it was a motion I’d been trained for years to notice. He continued on as though nothing had happened, but I couldn’t unsee the subtle falter.

“Tomorrow, we can”

“Wrecker,” I didn’t mean to interrupt him, but my mind was already obsessing over that split second and everything it could mean. He instantly paused, smile falling as he waited tensely for some explanation behind the sudden change in my demeaner, “do you still have problems with your balance?” His eyes widened for just a moment before turning quickly away from mine, the faintest hint of a blush creeping over his cheeks.

“Oh, uh… you saw that, huh?” The embarrassment robbing his voice of that brilliant exuberance broke my heart, and I quickly pushed myself away from the wall to cross the scarce few meters lingering between us. “Don’t happen much, and Tech did some stuff to my helmet so it almost never happens on missions… ‘less we’re, yuh know, somewhere high…” His gaze returned almost hesitantly to me as I approached him, but there was still a whisper of shame in those final words that I vowed to do anything I could to forever rid from him.

“Did that started after,” I motioned toward the pale branches of scar tissue stretching out from his left ear, and his lips bunched slightly as he nodded. “Hmm…” The curious lilt in my hum caught his attention, brow quirking slightly. Mouth pursing into a small grin, I reached my hands out toward him, an eagerness driving my motions that distracted him effortlessly from his embarrassment.

“I want to try something. Would you hold my hands for a minute?”

“Uh… sure.” He mumbled slightly and, despite his confusion, let his fingers slip around mine, almost comical in the dramatic difference in size. Still, my grip tightened as I looked up at him.

“I’d like you to close your eyes, Wrecker,” I instructed, voice muted with a gentle warmth that he followed without hesitation, “Alright, I’m going to count to ten, and I want you to twist your head from right to left as far as you can with each count. Ready?” He started to question me but stopped himself and merely nodded. I didn’t wait, falling into the quick count before he could overthink it. Halfway through, I felt his balance begin tilting to the right, felt his hold automatically tighten around mine, but he was able to finish without stumbling.

“That was perfect.” I praised quietly, which seemed to surprise him even more. “I know the helmet helps when you’re wearing it, but I think I can help a bit with when you’re not wearing it.” The shock that stole over him brought an almost giddy chuckle bubbling up my throat. “You can help me with my strength training, and I help you with your balance… Deal?” A hesitant doubt shown for only a moment in those mismatched eyes before his expression blossomed back into that eager grin that left me beaming.

“You got it, Doc!” My thumbs trailed happily over the broad expanse of his knuckles as he seemed to come back to life before me. “Can we start now? I mean – I know you’re tired an’ all, but”

“Yes, Wrecker.” I chirped between giggles, delighting in his endless boughs of energy. “Come on.” The scarce few minutes it took to lead him through the seated balance retraining exercises left him disappointed only that there wasn’t more to do. We sat atop his bunk, still awaiting the return of the others as I finished recording notes for that first session.

“We’ll see if you still feel that way when I make you do them while walking your eyes closed.” I teased at the sight of his reluctance to stop, instantly bringing a fresh spark of challenge to those eyes. “Wrecker.” He, at least, granted me a glance of abashed resignation at the quiet threat in my voice, and I couldn’t still the quiet laughter from escaping me.

“Does it still bother you?” I hadn’t expected the softly spoken question to breech the fleeting moment of quiet between us, but I was relieved to find Wrecker seemingly undisturbed from it.

“I mean… not really?” He answered with a small shrug. “Guess I don’t really like how folks look at me sometimes, but I know it makes me look even more scary, so...” In an instant I reached forward, hands gently cupping his jaws, thumbs shifting lightly against his cheeks, shamelessly trailing the yawning line of those scars toward his ear, and he froze beneath my touch.

“I’ve never been afraid of you, Wrecker.” There was no hesitation in my words, no whisper of doubt. “And this,” I added quietly, fingers sweeping up to brush over the deep valleys of taut, pale skin, head shaking slightly with a warm smile, “I always thought it looked pretty cool.” There was a long moment in which he seemed too stunned to react, lips parted in a tiny gasp, his wide eyes locked on mine. With a quiet sigh, I released him as sat back onto my heels.

“That’s not quite what I meant, though.” I explained, smile twisting into a smirk. “Issues with balance and vertigo, we might be able to improve with those exercises, but that was a serious injury. Does it still cause you any other problems?” The faintest blush darkened his cheeks as his gaze briefly dropped to where his hands rested atop his thighs.

“Well, it – not bein’ able to hear out’a that ear can be tricky… so can the eye.” He admitted almost distractedly.

“It’s amazing,” I chuckled slightly, “You know: I constantly forget about that… You just don’t let it slow you down at all.” His shoulders rolled beneath another bashful shrug.

“Happened a while back, so I guess I’ve gotten pretty used to it by now.” He said dismissively, but I could see the pleased smile just playing at the edges of his lips. I thought about the ways such disabilities impacted everyday life – the loss of depth perception and sound localization, the internalized frustration from suddenly becoming ‘clumsy’ and ‘loud’.

“Is there was reason you never got cybernetic replacements?” I shifted to tuck my knees thoughtlessly to my chest, back reclining comfortably against the wall at the foot of his bed.

“Too much nerve damage.” He answered, gaze roaming blindly over the wrinkled blanket bunched up beneath us. “Would’a needed to replace too much for ‘em to approve it.” My jaw ground, brows pulling together in a frown I was pleased he hadn’t seen before managing to school my expression once more. Credits. Of course, it came down to credits. He was barely past cadet training with it happened – unproven and thus undeserving of special treatment…

“Is that something you’d want?” I asked quietly. His eyes rose hesitantly, and I could see how carefully he considered the question.

“I… I dunno.” The whispered reply held none of his usual nonchalance, thinking over each word before giving them voice. “Doin’ it now would mean bein’ out’a commission for a while…” I could see how he recoiled from the mere thought of being unable to be with his brothers, even for the few weeks it would take to recover, being unable to fight beside them – to keep them safe, and I wanted to sob from the way my heart broke for him. “’Sides, like I said – Tech a’ready fixed up my helmet so I barely notice it anymore.” I had to let out a slow, deep breath before trusting myself to speak.

“Well, if you ever change your mind,” I murmured, begging him to hear the love sown into each word, “I’d be more than happy to make it happen.” He was still for a moment as my offer lingered in that breadth of quiet between us. With a near silent chuff of laughter, he nodded, granting me a small, grateful smile.

Returning the gesture, I finally pushed off of his bed and got to my feet, granting myself a leisure stretch before starting toward the temporary cot that I’d long since accepted as my permanent bed.

“Think I’ll sneak off to the showers before dinner.” I said wearily, already rummaging into my footlocker for a clean set of blacks before glancing back at him. “And I want to go through those exercises again with you tonight.” His grin instantly grew with that familiar exuberance I so treasured.

I’d long since become accustomed to the occasional second glance from confused regs as I walked the halls of Kamino absent the veil of armor, and tread past clones of varying ages and expressions thoughtlessly en route to the farthest edge of the platform in hopes of some semblance of privacy. As I approached the door, however, it slid open seconds before it should have, and I paused as those sharp eyes met mine. Crosshair went still as well, hand frozen with those long fingers tangled in his short, silver curls.

“Didn’t get your fill in the training room?” He scoffed, lips curling into something between a sneer and a smirk. I let my expression fall pointedly blank, brow just hitching in exasperation.

“What can I say? You have a cute smile, Crosshair.” I dismissed with careful disinterest, shoulders raising in an almost bored shrug as I continued forward, but then felt a smirk of my own touch my lips as I glanced up at him at a very simple realization: he’d been looking at me, too. “What’s your excuse?” His jaw clicked together, but before he could offer a retort, I pushed past him into the refresher, shouldering him unapologetically out of the way and let out a quiet chuckle after the door closed pointedly behind me.

Click here or message me if you'd like to be added to a taglist!

Click here for my Masterlist.

I know I owe @snow-dragon-rider a dedicated chapter… but I think I needed this little mini fic. I think I was struggling more than I realized with getting back into writing Doc after doing those other two stand alone fics. I’ve got over 1k words into the next Fever bit, but it has been a challenge. This was just the right little chunk to help brush off the dust, I think, and I’m so thankful to @actuallybarb for suggesting it (sorry it took a bit of a very different turn from your initial ask, lol, but I went down a rabbit hole with long-term TBI and inner ear issues, and this kinda jumped out at me).

Taglist: @arctrooper69 @ct-0112 @padawancat97 @eclec-tech @kixs-husband @atomickidsoul @jennrosefx @echos-girlfriend @burningfieldof-clover @manofworm @merkitty49 @starqueensthings @fives-girlfriend @idoubleswearimawriter @abigfanofstarwars @chopper-base @daftdarling222 @rosechi @legalpadawan @pentaghasm @pb-jellybeans @oldmanwithashield @skellymom @staycalmandhugaclone2 @dangraccoon @like-a-bantha @brokenphoenix99 @nekotaetae

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get-wr3ckered · 1 year

Text

| Karma- (GN Reader x The Bad Batch) |

Warnings: None I guess? There's like one threat in here but other than that I don't think there's anything that warrants a warning. Wordcount: 985

Notes:

This is my first attempt at writing anything in the x reader style and I’m actually kinda pleased with how it came out.

Reader has an established nickname/ call sign (hint- it's literally the title).

While Reader is gender neutral, they're AFAB.

Previously I’ve only ever written for OCs so this was a fun little challenge for me.

At this point, this has been through like four rewrites so I'm just gonna post it before I can change my mind about liking it and hope for the best.

I think I’ve added all the appropriate warnings and tags but if I’ve missed something or tagged it incorrectly feel free to let me know and I’ll fix it asap!

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-Chapter One-

Next >

You wanted it to be stated on record that you had played no part in the planning of your current assignment.

Breaking into a Seperatist droid manufacturing facility was not a new experience for you, nor was it the first time you’d found yourself imprisoned by the Seperatists. Truth be told the latter of the two scenarios had occurred a few more times than you were willing to admit but those instances had been at the hands of your own poor planning. The latest capture, however, was in no way, shape or form the result of your own actions.

Allow the Separatists to capture you on purpose, the Jedi Council had said. It would be the easiest way to acquire the information the Council needed, they’d said. One thing the Council, whether purposefully or not, had failed to mention within their infallible plan was the presence of one particular droid look-alike.

Oh how you couldn't wait to shove their plan- and Grievous' ridiculous faceplate- down their throats, once you were face to face with them again.

"Was looking like something a Bantha chewed up and spat out intentional?" You posed in faux thoughtfulness, the thumb and forefinger of your prosthetic hand stroking at your chin dramatically. "Or was that just a not-so-happy accident when you got your work done?"

One of the droids tasked with guarding your cell let out a sound akin to that of a snicker but quickly fell silent when met with a scathing look from Grievous- or what you assumed to be a scathing look, given that his true features were covered making it near impossible to decipher the Seperatist General's expressions.

Now, was goading Grievious and deliberately trying to piss him off a smart move? No, no it was not and you were well aware of such but when it was so easy to press his buttons, you would be remiss to leave such an easy target be.

"You know, if you're looking to get that-" You gestured openly to Grievous in his entirety. "-fixed I know a guy. He worked wonders with my hand after, y'know, you cut it off."

Again one of the droids failed to keep silent, another would-be snicker hanging in the air within their cell. Could droids even snicker? You weren’t sure but the small sound only furthered Grievous' irritation so it was a much-welcomed addition.

"My patience grows thin," Grievous remarked, his attention fixing itself solely on you. "Tell me what I wish to know and I may offer you the mercy of a swift death."

You paused, taking a moment to at least appear as though you were contemplating his oh-so-generous offer.

"Tempting," You hummed, seemingly uncaring that given your chained position it would've been all too easy for Grievous to draw one of his Sabers and slice you into ribbons without much effort. "But this cell's pretty comfy. I think I'll stick around, y'know?"

Grievous fumed, mechanical arm reaching back to tear the head of one of the battle droids clean off.

'Distract Grievous' you thought, 'check'.

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There had been many occasions in which Commander Cody had wanted to throttle you throughout the time you'd known one another.

All too often you'd find yourself in trouble. Your ever-impulsive decisions backfired on you more frequently than he knew you'd ever willingly admit. Yet there Cody would be time and time again, coming to your aid without question.

The same could be said for you though. There had been several occasions in which the 212th had landed in a tricky spot and your transmissions would arrive in the nick of time, containing the information needed to change the tides of battle.

It was like clockwork, really. When one was in need the other appeared seemingly out of nowhere. Obi-Wan had joked once or twice that you and Cody were two sides of the same coin.

Now, stood awaiting the arrival of Clone Force 99, that same wish to throttle you had returned like a persistent, nagging itch.

When he'd heard that you'd once again gotten yourself captured by the separatists, Cody had wasted no time in deploying a squad of his men to retrieve you. He would've gone himself and personally dragged you out of the Seppies' grasp by your ear but the Council had deemed his presence needed elsewhere. Returning from his own deployment to find that his men had failed to spring you from the Separatist camp was unwelcome news, to say the least.

Watching as the Havoc Marauder came into view, landing smoothly across the way allowed Cody to let out a breath of relief he hadn't been aware he'd been holding in. When the ship's ramp lowered, the Batch filing out with their newest addition in tow, Cody was quick to meet them halfway.

"Sergeant," Cody nodded.

"Commander," Hunter responded in turn, removing his helmet and resting it in the crook of his arm. "Your transmission sounded urgent."

Cody offered the group an appreciative nod. "You hightailing it here's appreciated. Unfortunately the situations time sensitive so there's no time to chit-chat."

The way Cody's shoulders were tensed set the Batch on edge, Hunter hearing the nervous pattern his heartbeat had taken on. "Understood, Commander."

"I've already sent a briefing over to Tech," Cody explained while the aforementioned Batcher pulled out his datapad in search of said briefing. "I'll be honest boys, I don't care how you play this one out. Hell, blow the place sky high for all I care just bring them back in one piece."

No one made a sound, not even Wrecker despite the express permission granted to blow something up. The only response Cody received was a swift nod from each of the Batch before they were turning tail back to the Marauder.

The sense of urgency in Cody's words had lit a fire under the Batch, and Maker help anyone who got in their way.

#first fic #star wars #star wars tbb #star wars clone wars #the bad batch #commander cody #clone force 99 #gn reader #x reader #star wars fic

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zoeykallus · 2 years

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Imperial Crosshair x Fem!Reader Short Fic Part 2/? - My Sweet Traitor

Warnings: Hurt / Angst / Tiny bit of fluff

What Happened Before:

Imperial Crosshair x Fem!Reader Short Fic Part 1/? - My Sweet Traitor

Part 2

When you came to, things were different than you expected. You weren't in a cell on an imperial cruiser like you expected. Nor were you tied to a table or chair for a painful interrogation. You were lying in the alley, right where Crosshair had stunned you. Slowly and carefully you straightened up, brushed the sand off your robe and looked around.

Far and wide there was no one to be seen, not even ordinary passers-by. The suns in the Tatooin sky were slowly setting in the distance, bathing the sky in glorious golden and orange shades. Your chest hurt a little where the stun shot hit you.

It seemed that Crosshair had just left you lying there. You weren't sure if you were grateful or angry because he still left you stunned and lying in the dirt. But you probably should be grateful. After all, you were still free and unharmed.

"So you were unable to locate the fugitive Jedi?" asked Rampart, turning slowly.

Crosshair, standing on the other side of the huge desk, met his gaze almost defiantly as he replied, "No, sir. Not yet."

Rampart sighed softly, but then said, "I'm sure you will. Anyway, this Jedi can't leave the planet that easily. We control all spaceports and there are enough of our ships in orbit to intercept fugitives. No one leaves the planet unnoticed."

Crosshair felt a hole open up in his stomach and his chest tighten. He had made up his mind to forget you, not to think about how you were doing. But now he had seen you again and just the thought of you and that you were trapped was eating him up inside, against his will.

He wanted to do his duty. He was a soldier and a good one at that. He always carried out orders to the satisfaction of his superiors. That he had made an exception because of you angered him. But he was even more annoyed by the concern you had aroused in him. The questions and thoughts that came with it.

"Your shift is over. Purge Commander Cody will take the next shift. If she is not located by morning, you take over again."

Crosshair pulled himself together, trying not to outwardly show how much concern the Purge Commander's deployment was causing him. Cody's chip worked, he wouldn't make exceptions, and he was unfortunately damn good at what he did.

" Understood," he said simply.

Pretty soon you realized that the Empire would not let you leave the planet There were guards, patrols and roadblocks everywhere. You wondered if Crosshair was still on the planet, leading a search party.

In an abandoned cellar vault you had found refuge for the time being. Outside it was dark by now, but search parties were still running through the streets. More than before it seemed to you. You had little hope of escaping from the planet. You sat down in a corner, pulled your robe tighter around you and breathed deeply. You wanted to sleep or at least meditate, you would need the strength. But meditating with all this commotion all around you in the streets was not so easy. As soon as you opened yourself to the Force, you felt the unrest that, thanks to the Empire, seemed to have the whole planet in its grip.

When you heard sounds that seemed to be very close, you were startled out of your meditation. Someone was entering the basement stairs, you could hear the footsteps coming from behind the door. The basement was mostly empty and there was no second exit. You were trapped, cursing yourself over your choice of a hopeless hiding place.

When the door opened, however, you immediately recognized the trooper by his stature and the way he moved, despite his helmet.

"Crosshair?"

He glanced up the stairs behind him, then turned to you.

"How the hell did you find me down here? This doesn't feel like a coincidence somehow."

Crosshair growled from under his helmet, "Because it's not a coincidence".

He walked up to you and you flinched back in alarm as he reached into your robe. However, he immediately pulled his hand back out and had a very small object between his fingers.

"A bug? You put a tracker on me when I was unconscious."

Crosshair nodded and looked behind him again to the stairs leading out of the basement. Looking at you again he explained, "Just in case if I needed to find you again quickly. This case has come to pass. The whole planet is under surveillance. Purge troopers are in the streets, all because of you. You won't get out of here alive without help."

Your heart began to race. Basically you had already known that, but hearing it from his mouth, albeit distorted by his helmet, was a whole different ball game.

"So you want to help me?"

Crosshair murmured, "There's no question of wanting. Because of you, I will probably lose everything. My position in the empire, my rank as a soldier, and most likely my life."

"Then why are you doing it?" you asked quietly.

He paused for a moment, not answering immediately, only after a small sigh.

"Because my feelings for you haven't changed, even though I tried to suppress them, day after day. I thought I had it made, and then suddenly you have to come stumbling across my path again and make me realize that I'm not capable of suppressing my feelings for you."

He sounded angry but also vulnerable. You could sense fear beneath his surface. You knew he was afraid you might not make it.

"I don't want you to sacrifice yourself for me" you said softly "I don't want you to die because of me."

"If we do everything right, neither of us will die" he said firmly "Stop trying to play the martyr again, those days are over"

Crosshair threw you the bag he had with him. Before, you had only noticed it fleetingly. "Hurry up, get changed."

He turned and stared up the stairs while you hurriedly opened the bag and pulled out the uniform of a female Imperial NCO.

"How did you get the uniform?"

Crosshair said quietly, "Stole it, of course. I was looking for an officer about your size, broke open her locker and stole the uniform."

"I see," you said quietly.

Crosshair chuckled, "What did you think? That I slept with her to get the clothes? Are you jealous?"

You were glad Crosshair wasn't looking at you, because you were jealous and it was probably clear from your expression, as well as the shame that was reflected on it because of that.

"Of course not"

Crosshair chuckled again, "Well if you say so."

You hurriedly got dressed and finally told him he could turn around. Crosshair turned around, looked at you briefly and said, "I never thought I'd find this uniform sexy."

Heat rose in your ears and cheeks. As he walked toward you, your heart pounded to your throat. You wondered if he knew what effect he had on you, how even words and movements from him, without a touch, could fluster you.

He reached for the cap of your uniform and pulled it deeper into your face.

"You'll have to hide a bit. In that uniform, they won't look too closely when you're wearing it, but your face is still theoretically known to them out there. A wanted picture has been issued," he warned you, but his voice was suddenly gentle.

"We can do this," you said, looking up at him from under the brim of the cap.

Crosshair was still wearing his helmet, but you could feel the small smile underneath.

"Remember, you have to act like an Imperial officer," he reminded you before you took the stairs up.

"You mean arrogant, domineering, and condescending?"

Crosshair growled, "Yeah, pretty much like that."