the way i loved you

by kenobiistvrn

Summary:

"Hello cyare."
"Wha- What the kriff are you doing here, bastard!" Camila gestures the gun at him. The guards move forward slightly and he raises his hand higher.
"I'm sorry, Mila. For leaving. I'm so sorry." He says, his eyes not leaving hers despite that fact she didn't look him directly in the eye. She couldn't bring herself too.
"That's not good enough though, is it?"

 

_______

Senator Ri'vane had been through a lot. With raising her four year old daughter, practically in secret, to dealing with various changes due to the end of the war, she's struggling to keep it together. With the occasional holo calls from her sister and the frequent rebellion meetings, maybe she can get better and start ignoring the hole in heart because of a certain someone...

 

Captain Rex x fem!oc.
Mother!oc & Daughter!oc
*unedited*

Notes:

I'm so excited for this. I love them so much. Camila and Rex are so full of angst and are so complicated (which is rather weird giving it's Rex) but this is so them. Plus sweet, little Alba is so cute. Hope you enjoy this!! I won't say much before hand, as this story hasn't really got a plan, i'm just going with the flow..

enjoy!!

Chapter 1: rebellion meetings

Summary:

Camila attends a rebel meeting and we meet her daughter...

 

 

misere rebellibus - mercy on the rebels

 

 

 

 

                    Camila took a deep breath, wringing her hands together while trying to calm her raging nerves. Her eyes flickered shut for a moment and she used her sense of hearing to calm herself. It seemed to work as she felt her thoughts quieten down and her shoulders relax, as the soft tweets of birds and whispers of Chandrilla’s winds fill her ears and her clustered head.

   She had to do this. This meeting was important. She had to do it.

   She had to do it..

   She had to do it…

   Camila repeats the same five words to herself as she opens her eyes once again and releases her hands from each other. She nods confidently to herself before walking forward, around the corner and towards the set of double doors at the end of the corridor. She held herself with confidence and grace, as usual, with a determined look in her eye and chin held high.

   With a sharp nod to the two guards, the doors of the entrance hall open up and she strides into the room, her own trusted set of guards either side of her as she slows her pace slightly and walks to her seat at the large table that stood in the middle of the room, smiling slightly and nodding at those that greeted her upon her entrance. She stopped beside her seat, and sat down, gracefully, next to Senator Riyo Chuchi and Senator Bail Organa, her guards stepped away to the outside of the room, open eyed, grey masks doing nothing to hide their stoic and guarding expressions.

   Camila didn’t include herself in the conversation that the two Senators were in, only greeting them in professional silence.

   The polite clearing of a throat and clink of a spoon against glass, caused all quiet conversations to stop and everyone’s attention to turn to the head of the table where Senator Mon Mothma stood.

   “Welcome Senators, Rebellion sympathisers, and everyone. Thank you for coming.”

   Camila took another deep breath, clasping her hands together, tightly under the table as the important rebellion meeting began. She silently repeated her mantra to herself as she focused on what the Senator was saying. The rebellion was important but dangerous. And this was something she needed to do. It was necessary. For Padmè. For Alba. For everyone that needed their help.

   About three hours later, the meeting had finished and Camila rose from her seat, her thoughts lingering on the things discussed in the meeting. Although she’d remained silent for the duration of it, Camila had listened intently with many thoughts on the matters at hand. Senator Mothma had spoken of Saw Gerrera’s movements and locations and of important doings in the Empire. They were starting to faze out clones in exchange for new TK troopers and many people had been mysteriously disappearing.

   Followed by her guards, Camila begins to make her way towards the door. She’s interrupted, however, when a gentle hand is placed on her arm, causing her steps to hault.

   Camila turns to see Senator Organa smiling down at her. She gently smiles back at him. She’d always held respect for the older senator, the two had always gotten along and in her first few months as a senator, he’d been somewhat of a mentor to her.

   “Mila, it’s good to see you.” He greets.

   “Bail. It’s been a while. I apologise for my absence in the Senate. I’m sure you understand.” Camila replies, keeping contact with the older Senator’s brown eyes.

   “It’s perfectly fine, Mila. With a daughter of my own, I completely understand your priorities. Remaining on Naravi IV is what is best for the pair of you.” He replies with a slight nod of his head.

   Camila smiles warmly back at him. Alba was several years older than Bail’s newborn daughter, Leia, but the two Senator’s wish to raise them closer together when Leia was older. They hoped to raise them against the Empire and what better than for them to have support in each other during potential conflict.

   “As for other matters, how have you been? And what of your.. erm.. friends?” He asks, raising an eyebrow with slight amusement. Camila smiles slightly at what he was hinting at.

   “I remain in contact with a few. But some I am unable to talk to or are unable to get in contact with. I also haven’t seen him in over a year.” She replies. Yes, she’d remained in contact with a couple of her friends. The usual batch, especially her sister, Hazel. But some like Jayana who wasn’t executed by the clones but instead assisted in her brother’s fall from the light. She also had only seen a couple of clones she was all to familiar with, only she had not seen the one she truly desired to see after all this time. The one “friend” she truly valued the most.

   “I am sure there are reasons for his lack of communication, Camila. Alas, only time will tell.” Bail replies, bringing Camila out of her thoughts. She nods at him, clasping her hands behind her back.

   “I believe you are right, Bail. Now, forgive me, but I must depart home. Alba is waiting and I have several things to do. But I’m sure I will appear in the senate soon. Riyo and I, have a hint of something.” Camila says, leaving many things unsaid, causing Bail to frown slightly at her words. The small wrinkle in his brow disappeared quickly though as his warm smile, ignited the fatherly spark in his brown eyes, as he looks down at her.

   “Very well, Mila. I shall see you soon. Perhaps a visit to you, with Leia is due.”

   “You would be most welcome, Bail.” She replies, bowing her head. He copies her movements and with a shared smile the two part ways. Camila leaving the large meeting room and Bail turning back to Senator Mothma.

 

              The journey back to Camila’s home planet, Naravi IV, was a short but quiet one. Camila remained in conversation with her handmaiden, Inej, throughout the journey. Her flight crew consisted of people she’d handpicked and trusted with her life and utmost discretion. But Inej was like Camila’s best friend. It was with her that the young senator told her private thoughts to, despite Inej’s role to only serve and assist.

   Soon enough, the senatorial ship was landing on Naravi IV and Camila and her small team exited the ship. They were greeted by a small group of workers and guards, who immediately went about sorting the ship, while the guards changed with the ones that accompanied Camila to Chandrilla. The group then boarded the speeder that awaited at the edge of the island-like landing platform, at sped towards the glass dome capital.

   Inej helped her Senator off the speeder and they all then made their way through the doors.

   “Mama!” A childish giggle, drew Camila’s attention. Her four year old daughter, ran towards the Senator with her small arms open wide and a bright smile on her face.

   Camila’s own immediately lit up and she smiled back at her daughter, picking her up as the young brunette throws herself at her. She hugged her tight to herself, careful not knock the headdress she wore in her hair on her daughter.

   “Hello, baby. I missed you.” Camila said to her daughter, pressing a small kiss to the little girl’s forehead.

   “I missed you too, Mama.” She replies, pressing a little kiss to her mother’s cheek.

   Camila then puts her child back down into the ground and clasps her small hand in her own, as the group starts to move again, this also with Alba and Alba’s maid — Nanij.

   “Where did you go this time, Mama?” The young girl asks.

   “I went to the beautiful planet of Chandrilla, Alla. Where I had a meeting about job stuff.” Camila replies, as they walk down the corridor they were in, having already entered the palace from the landing pad.

   “Can I go with you next time?” Alba asks and Camila smiles down at the young girl.

   “Maybe, Alba. Maybe.”

   A few minutes later, the group had reached the senatorial section of the palace. Camila’s guards left them upon the entrance to her quarters and not long after that, Inej and Nanij did the same. Leaving mother and daughter alone.

   Camila walked her daughter to the living room. Once again, telling her of her adventures away from Naravi IV.

   Alba had only ever been away from the planet when she was a baby and had never really seen anything other than the planet she lived on, so loved to hear her mother’s stories of the places she saw, and people she met, when she left their home.

   She also loved to hear stories of her father.

   Alba had never met her father. Her father didn’t actually know she existed. Camila had kept her pregnancy a secret and the young girl was only known to a few. It wasn’t because Alba’s father was a bad person. No Alba’s father was a very good person. And Camila would’ve told him as soon as she discovered she was with child. But in order to protect him and to protect Alba. Very few knew she existed. And even now the war was over, Camila had no idea where the father was, how he was. Or whether or not he still fought for the same things she did. For the Republic.

   Many of the GAR now served the new Galactic Empire and despite being in contact with a few who's already deserted, she was uncertain if Alba's father was among them. The Jedi has been all killed - all though some had survived - and Camila hoped for many things. Many she believed weren't actually true.

               Later that night, long after Alba had been put to bed by both her mother and Nanij, the Senator sat alone in her room, in her night gown, a silk dressing gown over the top, legs crossed under her bed covers as she awaited a call from her sister. Camila’s eyes flickered over to the pictures on her dresser, the faint light of the holo causing them to glow permanently. There wasn’t too many but her room was kind of the only place she held any kind of personal photographs. There’s was a couple of her and her sisters. Some of her and her family. A few of Alba — that would undoubtedly be added to as the young girl grew up. Some of her friends and her, work colleagues. But her eyes lingered on the only photo she had on display with her love. Alba’s father. It was by far her favourite and of one of the very few she actually had of him.

   Her heart ached at the sight of them together. Of how happy they both were in the picture, despite the war. It was before they were separated. Before she was pregnant. He’d been on leave and the two had gone out with a couple of his brothers to Coruscant, where she’d shown them a few of her favorite places. In the picture, she had her head on his shoulders, his on top, and the two smile at his brother, who took the photo. They were in a booth at one of the restaurants she’d suggested they eat at.

   Camila smiled fondly at the memory as a stray tear fell down her cheek. She missed that.

   A beeping from the holo disk in front of her, interrupted her thoughts and she quickly wiped the tear from her cheek before answering the incoming call. The familiar hologram of her sister’s upper body appeared and Camila smiled, with a mix of emotions, at her.

    “Mila. Hi.” Her sister greets.

    “Haze. I missed you.” Camila replies.

    “I missed you too. Sorry it’s been a couple months. We’ve been really busy down our end. Cid has us doing all kinds of jobs.” Hazel tells her and Camila watches her, pitifully.

    “I assumed so. How’s it going? Being a mercenary again. Just like the old days for you, Haze.” Camila says and her sister laughs.

    “It’s certainly bringing back memories.” Hazel replies, “but it’s been alright. We’ve been all over. Omega’s loving it and so is Wrecker and Tech to be honest. I am too but I do wish I could come home for a couple days.”

    “Is your crew not home to you?” Camila asks.

    “Oh don’t get me wrong, I love them all-“

    “-some more than others!” Camila interrupts with a smirk and Hazel rolls her eyes, a light blush appearing on her cheeks.

    “Shut up, with that. I have lots to tell you in that area. But yes. I love them all, and it is truly a home, despite being a bit of a tight fit for us all on the Marauder. But I also have a home with you, sister, and the family on Naravi IV.” Hazel says.

   Camila smiles, “of course. You’ll always have a home here.” She tells her, “now, tell me all the gossip, sister.”

   Camila watches the slightly younger girl talk all about the current “romance” in her soldiers-turned-mercenaries crew. She told her about her and her partner, Tech. And about the medic they travel with and the crew’s muscle, Wrecker, were also still dating. Hazel also tells her about Hunter and Camila and Hazel’s friend, Lenaira — or “Lena”. She also mentions one of Alba’s father’s, brother’s ex girlfriend and how they’d ran into her a couple weeks back, and how much sexual tension there was.

   “Honestly, it was so awkward sometimes. Tori, Lena and I could not stop laughing though. Echo should just sleep with her again! There so in love with each other, it’s intoxicating.”

   Camila laughs and shakes her head. Her eyes flickering over to the door as she does so, very aware of the guards that roamed the living room outside.

   “Well, it sounds like a great deal of fun down your end. I would love to officially meet them all. If you’re ever in the area, feel free to drop by. My personal guards have your ship’s code on their log so will accept the Marauder within the palace boundaries.”

   “Thank you, Mila.” Hazel responds, “now tell me how everything is going on your end. And how is Alba? I miss my niece.”

   “It’s alright. Alba is thriving, of course, although she wishes to roam free of Naravi IV and join me on my trip to rebellion meetings and senator jobs.” Camila tells her.

   Hazel smiles and giggles, “sounds just like her.”

   Camila nods as the two share a pitiful smile. There’s silence between the two as they both think of different things, unsure of what to say.

   “Have you.. erm.. heard from…?” Camila trails off, watching her sister, searchingly. Hazel drops her eyes from her sister’s face and glances off to the side, as if looking at someone. Camila sighs quietly, already knowing the answer.

   “I’m sorry, Mila. Echo sent a message weeks ago but we don’t want to risk sending another one. We know he’s not under the control of the chips though.” Hazel tells her and Camila brightens up slightly at the last sentence.

   “Oh.. well at least he’s hopefully fighting for the republic and not the empire, if he’s not under the chip’s control.”

   Hazel smiles, sadly, at her and nods.

   “Hopefully.”

   Camila later, lay in her queen sized bed, staring up at the ceiling in the dark, thinking back to the conversation with her sister. A tear falls down her cheek, quickly followed by another and soon enough she crying quietly. The Senator pulls the covers up to her chin as she gently places one of her hands over her face, trying to hold in the sobs that dared to escape…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

aww my baby, Mila. She's really not doing great. I love her so much but she will be put through a lot ( sorry ;) ).
okay, so:: FIRST CHAPTER IS HERE!! I've been so excited over this book. Have to post it today because it was going to delete from my ao3 drafts today. But i'm SO EXCITED!! Hope you will enjoy this!!!

So from the start---
Mila is, of course, in the rebellion. She was one of the first members and is one of the founders. We love a strong female lead and this is Mila despite everything she's going through. She's gonna be really badass in this book! And also, BAIL ORGANA I LOVE YOU!! I love him so much and he's such a good mentor to Mila ( he will be around a lot in this book because he never got enough screen time ).
I'm not particularly fond of Mon Mothma. She's a bit of a bitch in this fic ( just a heads up )!

Oh and ALBA!! ALLA, ALBA, MY BABY. She is the cutest, the sweetest. I love her so much. She's going to be such a great little addition in this fic and a pretty significant part of the plot. She is literally all Camila ( and her father, who we have yet to find out, although i'm sure you probs already know. I have a habit of talking about someone in my books but never revealing their name until the very last minute.)

and then Hazel! My love! She's so great. Her and Mila's dynamic is the best. (more on them, next chapter ;) ).Hazel is also such a gossip. Mila just ends up knowing everything and there's a couple points in this fic that include spoilers for my other fic because Hazel tells Mila everything that happens.

Okay and that's it for this chapter. Next chapter includes a couple of key characters and a bit of background. Hope you like it <33

Chapter 2: the bill

Summary:

Camila works on trying to pass her hard worked for bill. She's visited by an old friend and decides to bring her daughter to Coruscant...

 

 

 

 

    memento credere te - remember to trust yourself

 

 

 

 

               “No! I have to be there! Padmé, Riyo and I worked so hard on this bill. It would make no sense for me not be there when its fate is decided!” Camila says, staring dignantly at the hologram of Bail, Senator Mothma, Riyo and the Emperor’s hand, Yarva Corviya.

   “The Emperor has made his thoughts clear on this subject, Mila. There may not be a chance this bill will be passed!” Yarva tells her, hands clasped under the black, poncho-like cloak that she wore.

   “My words still stand, Yarva. I don’t care about the possible outcomes because I know what they are! I must be there despite that. I must be!” She bites back. For Padmé.

   “If you wish, Mila. But I warn you, the outcome may not be what you’d like it to be. Good day.” Yarva replies, calmly. Her hologram then disappears, leaving Camila with the other three senators.

   She takes a deep breath, raising a hand to press a couple fingers, gently against her forehead.

   “She may be right, Senator Ri’vane.” Senator Mothma tells the younger woman.

   Camila looks up at her before glancing quickly at Bail, who wore a sympathetic expression.

   “Perhaps, Senator, but Mila is right.” Riyo says, “we’ve been working on this bill for a while and even though it might not go in our favour it makes sense for her to be there as well. Especially as Padmé is no longer with us..”

   Camila smiles softly at her, memories of her best friend’s funeral flashing before her eyes.

   “I agree.” Bail says, “if Mila wishes to come she may. Perhaps Alba would enjoy a trip to the senate?”

   Camila turns her smile to him and nods her head, “I’m sure she would, Bail.”

   Senator Mothma nods at looks around the group of senators, “very well. Good day, Senators.” She says, before hanging up.

   Bail nods at the two with a fond smile before doing the same.

   Camila sighs heavily and sits down in her chair, pressing her cold hands against her pounding head.

   “How are you feeling?” Riyo asks the slightly older senator.

   Camila takes a deep breath, “pretty terrible actually.” She replies.

   “Well you keep up a good fascade.”

   “Thank you, Riyo. How are you?” Camila says, dropping her hands back into her lap and looking kindly at her friend.

   “I’m alright. I’ve been thinking about petitioning about the clones, despite what they’ve done.”

   “That’s a good idea. Perhaps I’ll help, if that’s alright.”

   “It would be most appreciated.” Riyo smiles at her and Camila smiles, softly back.

   There’s a silence for a couple minutes as the two get lost in their own thoughts, before someone speaks again.

   “Have you heard from any of your friends?” Riyo asks.

   “Yes. More so my younger sister. I’ve been keeping an eye out for others and do meet with a couple of old friends frequently but in secret of course. I have yet to hear from Ahsoka though.” Camila tells her. The two were good friends with the ex Jedi and hadn’t seen her since she’s left the Jedi Order.

   “Well that’s good. Forgive me, but I must be going. I’ll see you in a couple months at the bill meeting.” Riyo says with a bow of her head.

   Camila smiles and mimics her actions, “very well. See you soon, Riyo.”

   “Goodbye, Mila!” She says before vanishing.

   Camila sighs again and gently presses a finger under her eye to stop herself from bursting into exhausted tears. She takes a deep breath and sits up, opening a drawer in the desk she sat at, and pulled out a bottle of pills. She unscrews the lid and pours a couple in to her hand before throwing her head back, taking them in her mouth and grabbing the glass of water next to her. With a big sip, she swallowed the pills and put the glass back down.

   Camila then lent back in her chair and closed her eyes, breathing as evenly as she could as she tried to ignore her pulsing headache. The end of the war was taking a massive toll on her and she knew that it would only get worse.

 

 

 

 

 

 

             He was alive and well. Hazel had seen him. They’d talked. Hazel hadn’t said a word about Alba. Instead she’d stood him that Camila would be happy to see him despite how long it had been. Camila had frowned at this when Hazel had told her. Why would Rex think she wouldn’t want to see him? Would she be happy to see him? That question shocked her the most. She wondered how she would truly feel when she saw him again. If she saw him again. Right now, she didn’t what her true feelings were.

   On slightly brighter news, with Rex’s help, Hazel’s squad — well the clones — had their chips removed on some scrapper planet called Bracca. Unfortunately, the group had been located by the Empire, including one of the group who’s betrayed them, named Crosshair. The young clone girl who travelled with them had been kidnapped by a bounty hunter named Cad Bane who Camila told Hazel many things about having been trapped by him with other senators before and run in with him a few times. She was surprised that the ex bounty hunter turned republic spy had never actually met him in person. Thankfully though, the group had saved young Omega.

   Camila had then told her sister all about what she’d been up to later with the rebellion and how she was going to Coruscant next month with Alba to find out about the bill she’d been trying to pass with Riyo and that they both knew it would probably be unsuccessful. Hazel had doted her sister in reassurances and calm words like she always did.

   Camila loved her sister. She loved her so much. The two had always been their for each other since Hazel was a baby. Camila had protected the younger woman all her life and as soon as she was old enough, Hazel did the same.

   Neither had ever been that close to their parents. Their mother and father had always been distant from their children and from each other. Their father was often off world doing gods know what. And their mother served the queen almost full time. Camila and Hazel’s old sister, Burót, had taken care of them until Camila was thirteen. Burót had then moved to Coruscant for a job and the Ri’vane’s rarely hear from her.

   And now, despite everything, the two sisters were still close and communicated often. Their roles in the war were completely different and on the rare occasion they ever worked together, people could see how much the two cared and protected each other.

   A few days later, Camila walks through the palace gardens at a slow, calm pace with her hands clasped behind her back and the edges of her skirt fluttering slightly in the gentle breeze. Inej followed a metre behind her with a pair of her personal guards a metre behind Inej, as dutiful as ever.

   “Senator.”

   Another one of her personal guards walked over to the senator, trailing a good friend of Camila’s. They stop about a metre in front of her as her and her little group come to a halt. Camila smiles at her friend, welcomingly.

   “Commander Wolffe. It’s good to see you again.” Camila greets and Wolffe bows his head slightly.

   “And you, Senator.” He says.

   “Please, walk with me.” She says, and Wolffe moves forward to join her side. The guard that had been following him, bowed towards her before walking away.

   The group then pick up their pace again, through the gardens, this time joined by the clone Commander.

   “I must say, it’s truly been a while, Commander.” Camila says, glancing at him.

   “It has, Senator. I apologise. How have you been?” Wolffe replies.

   “I’ve been a better. I haven’t seen him in over three years. The bill I’ve been working on is being voted about in the senate in a couple weeks and without a doubt, will not go in our favour. And the small specs of rebellion has not gone any further than a few debates.” She tells him with a small sigh, “and what of you, Commander? I was happy to hear that despite what happened during Order 66 the power of the command did not last very long. I’ve been amongst troopers since the command was given and it’s not the same as was. But hopefully it will change.”

   “Hopefully, Senator. I’ve been alright. It’s been difficult. Having to find a way to escape the Empire, leaving my brothers behind.” Wolffe tells her. He’d always been very headstrong. Good commander. Always looked out for his brothers and when ever she worked alongside him they’d worked well together due to finding many things in common.

   “I understand, Commander.” She nods at him and the two continue their walk around the gardens, upholding small conversations and reminiscing over the “good old days”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

            Camila stood on the landing platform next to her entourage, her pale, blue, senatorial dress hidden under her long, blue cloak. Her hands were clasped together in front of her, the sleeves of her cloak hiding them. She wore a simple headdress in her plaited hair and her make up was neutral. It was a usual get up for the senator and expressed many things about her.

   She watched as her luggage was taking aboard her small star cruiser. The two pilots nodded at her before they boarded up the ramp.

   “Mama!”

   Camila turned to look at the edge of the platform, where Nanij and a couple of guards walked with Alba, from the speeder that had just arrived in and towards her.

   “Hello, Alla.” She said, crouching down as best she could in the heavy cloak and wrapped her arms around the little girl’s small body.

   “I can’t believe I’m actually allowed to go with you, Mama!” Alba exclaimed as her mother pulled away and stood up.

   “Well you’re going to have to believe it, baby, because it’s happening.” She said with a small smile, taking Alba’s tiny hand in her own.

   Nanij moved to stand next to Inej and the rest of the guards boarded the ship. A minute later, the Senator and her daughter, walked up the ramp, followed by entourage, the ship closing behind them.

   Camila walked Alba to the office-like room that belonged to the Senator, where her representative and head guard already awaited. The only guards she ever allowed near her family, on her ship and in her guards were ones she trusted with her life and hand picked herself. Her personal guards. It’s not that she didn’t trust the Queen because she absolutely did, but the Queen also had her own personal group of guards. Every important person did.

   Inej and Nanij quickly departed from the group, followed by a couple of the guards. Camila and Alba entered the room while the remaining two guards stayed outside.

   Talia Boûsse was a childhood friend of Camila’s. The two had attended school, collage and university together. They had been good friends ever since they’d met in child care. They’d both gone for the job of senator but when Camila had gotten the job, she’d asked Talia to work alongside her and be her representative in the senate when she was unable to be her. The pair were like sisters and Camila trusted her with her life. She knew Talia was the best person to have as her representative.

   She was also Alba’s godmother so it was no surprise that as soon as they walked in the door, Alba ran straight into her arms.

   “Oof, hello Al. You get bigger every time I see you, little one.” Talia says, hugging the small girl and pecking her cheek before putting her down on the floor.

   “I get to go to Coruscant, Auntie Tal! Coruscant!” Alba exclaims.

   “I know, how exciting!” Talia replies.

   “She’s not stopped talking about it since I’ve told her,” Camila says, sitting down in one of the chairs, “bit annoying really.”

   Talia laughs, smiling at her before tickling Alba, “you have, have you?”

   Alba giggles, loudly. Camila’s head guard turns to her, while her daughter is distracted.

   “Miss Corviya has sent a message regarding the bill. Would you like to hear it now or later, Senator?” He asks. Camila watches him for a second in thought before glancing quickly at Alba and Talia.

   “In a bit, Captain. Thank you.” Camila says and the Captain nods at her before backing away.

   Camila smiles over at Talia and Alba as her friend begins to tell the young girl about various things to do with the Senate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

That was a bit of a whirlwind. SO from the top!

Camila being a bit of a badass and standing up for herself. Also, the Padme mention :(( I miss her so much!
Riyo and Camila are the best. I love their interactions so much. And they're going to be so good in tbb season 2... 👀👀

Oh and meet Yarva. She's really going to be a badass and im looking forward to her featuring more in my books.

Also Hazel and Camila gossiping as usual. Plus a little background on the two. Fuck their parents by the way. The rest of the family never really make an appearance in the books but we don't like them ( well not the parents ;) )

oh and WOLFFE!! HE'S HERE!! and good. I love him so much and he never got enough screentime. Him and Camila are going to have the best friendship and we will appear a few times!!

and finally, ALBA and TALIA. Talia is such a great character and ALBA IN CORUSCANT is going to be great. I love her so much!!

okay and that's the end of the chapter. I'm loving this book and i'm so excited for one of the first turning points in the book to appear. ( either the next chapter or the one after ).

Chapter 3: coruscant

Summary:

The counter-legislation to the Galactic Military Enhancement bill is in session to be voted on but it may not be overly successful...

in honour of the bad batch season three trailer::

 

 

nisi defectum lucrarin – except failure in order to win

 

 

          Camila watched Alba as her daughter read aloud. The young girl held a children’s book in her hands and Nanij followed the words with her finger. The mother watched them from the other side of the main area of her ship, the Starbird .

   The Senator always found herself calmer when she watched her daughter. When she was near her daughter. It was a comfort. Camila was forever thankful that she was granted Alba. That the little girl had come into her life, and that she had changed it. Alba had been the light in Camila’s darkness. Alba was born during a difficult time for Camila. She was losing contact with Alba’s father, the war had been at its peak. And then Alba was born and Camila’s fire was restored. Fire to continue. Hope.

   The journey to Coruscant was longer than it was to Chandrilla. With Chandrilla in the neighbouring system it didn’t take more than a standard hour through hyperspace. With Coruscant it was different.

   Naravi IV was in the Inner Rim, like Chandrilla, and Coruscant was one of the Core Worlds. It was the centre of the galaxy. Coordinates; 0-0-0. So it took half a standard day to get there. It didn’t help that not even an hour after she was due to arrive, she would have to enter the Grand Convocation Chamber, or the Senate Chamber. Yarva’s message had been to inform her of the bill voting being changed from tomorrow morning to this afternoon. Camila wasn’t happy. It meant she probably wouldn’t get back to her Senate apartment until midnight, possibly later, depending on how long the bill would take. She really wasn’t happy.

   She was pulled from her thoughts when her guards’ captain entered from the cockpit.

   He bows his head before addressing her, “M’lady we are just about to come out of hyperspace.” He tells her. 

   “Thank you, Captain.” Camila says. She nodded at Nanij, who’d looked over at her when the Captain had entered. The nanny gently took the book from Alba, the young girl stopping her reading and securing herself in her seat.

   Camila smiled softly at her daughter before the pull of the ship as it exited hyperspace caused her to look away. A few minutes later, they entered Coruscant’s atmosphere and Camila was stood by the doors, Talia and Inej behind her and Alba and Nanij behind them. Guards stood around the sides and at the back with Captain Narvor, just to her side but slightly in front.

   The brunette felt the ship land on one of Coruscant’s many landing pads. A couple minutes later, the boarding ramp lowered and the group made their way off the ship. They boarded the speeder that awaited them before making their way towards the Senatorial building in the centre of Coruscant. 

   Camila entered the Senatorial building, Alba’s tiny hand clasped in her own, her small senatorial squad behind her. Talia walked by her side with Inej and Nanij. Captain Narvor and another guard just behind them. They were met by Bail and after a short round of hellos (and a hug on Alba’s part), they all made their way towards the Senate Chamber. 

   Outside the door to her pod, Camila turned to her daughter, crouching down in front of her.

   “Okay, Alla. Mama’s going to go inside and you are going to go with Nanij.” 

   “But, Mama. Can’t I come in with you? I’ll be super good. Promise.” Alba replies, her big, brown eyes widening.

   “Not today. I’m sorry, baby. But it’s going to be a long session and Mama’s going to be talking and being busy the whole time.” Camila tells her, sadly, “So Nanij is going to take you around the rest of the Senate building with Tavin here,” she gestures at the other guard that accompanied them, “And then I'll see you tomorrow morning, okay?”

   “Okay, Mama.” Alba reaches forward, hugging her. Camila squeezes her back before pulling away and standing up. The young blond then hugged Bail and Talia. She then waved goodbye and left with Nanij and Tavin the guard.

   Camila watched her go and then turned to Bail.

   “Let's get going then.” He says in his regular, calm voice. 

   “Yes, let's.” Camila turns around and turns to the door to her pod.

   “Doesn’t matter what happens, at least you tried.” Talia reminds them. 

   “I agree.” Bail says and Camila nods. She then walks through the door, it sliding open as she approaches, Bail doing the same in the pod next to hers.

   Let the game begin.

 

 

     The session began with Senator Mothma reading out the terms and conditions of the bill. 

   Camila, Bail, Riyo, Padmé and Senator Mothma had been working on the bill for months. They’d proposed it before many times and each time had been unsuccessful. They wanted to have one more go before officially giving up but then the end of the war happened and they lost Padmé. With only Bail and Camila knowing what really happened, her death was still a major setback. The bill had been pushed back and the four had worked harder than ever to get it finished and hopefully propose it to the Senate. With Camila being away since the end of the war, Talia had taken her place and the others had been working to gain allies in the lead up to the session in order to help.

   The bill was to counteract one made during the clone wars. The Republic military enhancement bill. It had been proposed by Senator Burtoni after the deregulation of the banks in the aftermath of the bombing of the central power distribution grid. Padmé, Bail and Camila had been opposed to it from the beginning with Riyo, Senator Mothma and a couple others agreeing with them. Despite all they did and Padmé’s speech during the passing of the bill, they were unsuccessful and it was still passed. The Republic purchased an additional 5 million clone troopers and the families of the Republic faced an obvious cost and effect. So the bill was a counter-legislation to the military enhancement bill and, if successful, would help the families affected by it. 

   Alas, they all knew it would probably be unsuccessful. But despite Yarva’s continuous warnings, they still went on. Still made an effort. For everyone lost. The only thing keeping Camila going was that it was all for Padmé. She would have wanted them to persevere with this bill. 

   Once the terms and conditions were told, several other Senator’s spoke. In opposition and in agreement. 

   “The reason for the military enhancement bill was because of the bombing of the central power distribution grid. It was necessary. If we pass your counter-legislation, everything we did to rebuild the results of that unprovoked attack will be worthless.” Senator Orn Free Taa was saying. Camila rolled her eyes as several others agreed with him.

   “It wouldn’t be worthless, Senator.” Senator Mothma replies, “That bill had a big effect against the families of the Republic. Not all of them have enough money to not notice. The cost came out of the bank accounts of Ryloth as well as many other planets.”

   “Maybe, Senator Mothma. But the bill was a success. And it was made and proposed with good reason.” Senator Burtoni countered and Camila shook her head, frowning at her.

   How was she still here?

   “How can you say that?” Camila’s voice broke through as she moved her pod forward, “How can any of you say that the bill was a success?! Your bill took a massive loan from InterGalactic Banking Clan, plus a twenty-five percent interest, and you are going to sit there and tell me it was a good thing. The Republic had a loan to pay off. One that was paid by the people. Many were affected by your bill. More so than what the bill was made to help. The families of the Republic, and now the Empire, faced a tangible cost that has greatly depleted many bank accounts of many planets within what was the Republic. No, the military enhancement bill wasn’t as successful as you think it was, Senator Burtoni. It was a greater failure to society. That is what we are fighting for today,” Camila gestures around to the other Senators on the bill, “That it was this counter-legislation is for. To help those that this Senate is supposed to help. This Senate is supposed to make decisions that will help the people. The galaxy. Not what will help themselves. That it was this Senate is for. That is what this counter-legislation is for. That is what I, and many others, have been working to do. To help the people we are supposed to help. Are you telling me, Senator, that the reason you are here is not for what you are arguing about right now?”

   There’s a small silence after her speech and out of the corner of her eye and she stared around at the Senators that opposed them, Camila could see Bail watch her proudly. 

   “Senator Ri’vane.” Mas Amedda begins from the Chancellor box in the middle. The Emperor was, of course, absent but Yarva was beside the Vice Chair as he addressed Camila, “The reason the Galactic military enhancement bill was created was to gain an additional five million clone troopers. And we were successful. The Republic paid off its debt to the InterGalactic Banking Clan. Not all families were affected by this, those that were are simply collateral. Much like many of the families that the Clone Wars affected. The Clone War affected us all and this Senate has done the best it can to accommodate them. Your counter-legislation is not needed nor is it necessary.”

   “Vice–” Riyo starts but is interrupted.

   “We shall vote now on your counter-legislation and my words stand. The Emperor agrees not with your counter-legislation but with that it isn’t worth our time, no matter the consequences of the military enhancement bill.” Mas Amedda exclaims and Camila closes her eyes, taking a deep breath, and then opening them again.

   The choices appeared on the screen in front of her and she immediately voted for her counter-legislation bill. She looked over at Bail and then Riyo, seeing them do the same.

   Camila clasped her hands together in a tight grip, sighing heavily as she shifted her weight. 

   “We have the results,” Mas begins, “It was 60-40… opposition. This counter-legislation bill won’t be passed.”

   Camila steps back and falls into the seat behind her, her head falling to rest against her chest as Talia moves the pod back to its station. They’d failed. Of course they had.

   The session finished shortly after and according to the holo clock it was 24.00. Midnight. She said goodnight to Riyo, Bail and Senator Mothma, promising to meet with them in the morning at Senator Mothma’s office. They then parted ways, Camila, Talia, Inej and Captain Narvor remaining silent (the two guards silent as well, like always) as they made their way back to her apartment.

   Alba was already asleep when they went there and Inej quickly went to the room she shared with Nanij. Talia bid Camila farewell before turning in and Captain Narvor went to his post at the door.

   The young Senator walked over to the drink cabinet in the far corner and poured herself a corellian whiskey, downing in one sip before pouring another. This one she took her time with, putting the bottle of whiskey away, and taking the cup back to her room.

   She sipped on it as she readied herself for bed, finishing it just as she brushed her hair.

   With a heavy sigh, Camila slumped onto the plush, queen-sized bed, letting the sorrows and regrets wash over her as she buried herself into the covers, hoping to hide from the failures of the day.

 

 

 

         The next morning, Camila has a meeting with the other Senators that worked for the counter-legislation bill. It isn’t really a meeting, though, more like a gathering as the group just talk about the failure of it, once again, and curse Senator Burtoni, Mas Amedda and the others to hell.

   “It was bound to happen.” Camila says, “We’ve proposed the idea of this bill, many times. We were expecting it.” Her soft voice calms everyone as she stares ahead of her, sipping on her drink.

   “Mila’s right.” Riyo agrees, “It was expected but alas, still a shock.”

   The others nod, accepting their fate. They weren’t going to try again with this bill. 

   “Now, if you’ll excuse me,” Camila starts, rising to her feet, the others doing the same, “I have a meeting with Yarva, that I must attend. I shall see you all before I leave.” She bows her head, the Senators doing the same before she steps away from her chair and leaves the room with two of her guards.

   The journey to Yarva’s office is quick but quiet. The halls of the Senate building weren’t very busy but Camila didn’t mind. She knocked on the door when she arrived at Yarva’s office and quietly ordered her guards to wait outside.

   Yarva opened the door and gave the Senator a small smile.

   “Senator Ri’vane, please come in.” She said, keeping up formalities for the sake of any one that may walk by.

   “Thank you, Commander.” Camila replies and walks into the office, the door closing behind her. She takes a seat opposite Yarva’s desk.

   “It’s good to see you face-to-face again, Camila.” Yarva greets, dropping the formalities now they are safely in her office.

   “It is, Yarva. Is it just us?” replies Camila and Yarva nods, “Good.”

   “Yes, I wanted to discuss the bill for a few minutes.” Yarva begins and Camila nods, still not entirely over their failure of it, “I’m sorry that it didn’t go the way that you hoped and I know it was well worked for. But the result was inevitable. As soon as the Vice Chair told the Chamber of the Emperor’s views of this counter-legislation, it definitely turned the tide a bit. But the votes were 60-40 to the opposition so it was rather close.”

   Camila nods in agreement, “Yes, I take that it wasn’t an entire failure but we were expecting the results of this bill wouldn’t go in our favour. I think we just had our fingers crossed in hopes that our last try might be successful. Especially after we lost.. Padmé.” She drops her head, slightly, and the two go silent for a couple seconds.

   “Yes,” Yarva mutters. 

   “But it doesn’t matter. What’s done is done and there’s nothing that’s going to change it. We’ve accepted our failure and the counter-legislation has been binned. We aren’t trying again and that is that.” Camila stated and Yarva watched her with calm but cautious eyes. 

   “Very well.” She responded, moving a couple sheets aside on her desk, “Then I believe that’s it for today. How is Alba?”

   “She’s alright. I haven’t seen her since last night, she was asleep when I got home and still asleep when I left early this morning. She seems to enjoy Coruscant. She also seems to.” Camila tells her and Yarva smiles.

   “She’s a bright little lady. Maybe one day she will follow in her mother’s footsteps.” Yarva hinted, with a raise of her eyebrow and Camila let out a small laugh.

   “Possibly. But I want her to grow up first.” She says and Yarva nods.

   “Good idea.”

   They then both rise from their seats and walk towards the door. Camila presses a kiss to each of Yarva’s cheeks, Yarva doing the same to her as a goodbye, before she slides open the door.

   “Have a good day, Senator.” Yarva says, squeezing Camila’s arm.

   “And you, Commander. Farewell.” Camila replies with a smile and walks away from the office with her two guards, the door closing behind her as Yarva returns to her desk.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

okay, from the top.
Alba, my sweet. Once again loving her to bits and you can Camila does to. "Camila's fire was restored" when Alba was born, so cute.
a little cute moment before the session.

Okay, the bill. Basically, if anyone's confused. The Galactic Military Enhancement bill was made 21BBY (during the Clone War) after a bombing on Coruscant. It requested 5 million additional clone troopers even though the Republic were already in debt to the banking clan and had a great toll on the people. Padme, Bail, Mon Mothma, Onaconda Farr and, in this, Camila, were opposed to this bill as the Republic were already in great debt. Its mentioned, i believe, in the Star Wars; the Clone Wars episode; 'Pursuit of Peace'. The bill that Camila, Riyo, Bail and Mon Mothma were working on was a counter-legislation for this in order to help compensate the families that the bill affected and for the impact on society that the bill had.

So, yeah, Camila's 'big' speech, there. She's great. I love her so much. Unfortunately it wasn't successful. Really sad but they were already kind of expecting it. It was close though. 60-40 to the opposition.

Also their little gathering. Camila's officially given up. My poor girl. I feel bad.. (even though its my fault).

And finally, Yarva! MY BABY! SHE'S MENT TO BE BAD BUT SHE'S GOOD! The Emperor's right hand and she sympathises with Camila and knows of Alba!! She will be in this book more often but she doesn't have a massive role in this book, more in another one...
oh and their little cheek kisses.. like the french! Yarva's is defo French if she wasn't already from Alderaan. She has a french accent. I'm saying it now. She's so hot!!!

Any who, hope you enjoyed this chapter. I've not gone through and proof read or edited them because this is all straight from my drafts and if i did go through and read my chapters there would be many changes... undoubtedly. So if something changes you'll know I edited it.

Next chapter: bluemoon reunion (more on that next chapter though. It's a mystery...)

Chapter 4: cyar’ika, please

Summary:

Late at night, Camila receives an unexpected visitor and a deep secret is revealed…

 

venia non semper facile est dare - forgiveness isn't always easy to give

 

 

   Camila was sat in her room, late at night, brushing through her brunette curls. They’d arrived home from Coruscant that morning and she was tired. Alba took a while to get to bed and Camila had a lengthy holo call with her sister a couple hours ago that had just finished. She’d told Hazel all about the bill and had ranted on for ages. She was very grateful for her sister who’s comforted her for ages

   Once again, Camila was thankful for the peace and quiet as she slowly felt the tension leave her body while she soothingly brushed her hair. She sat at her vanity, various hair and skin products on the desk and the warm mirror lights illuminating her room.

   Soft, relaxing tunes filtered through the room, barely above volume one on her datapad. She reached her hand out to smooth her thin, but fluffy, dressing gown over the satin night dress she wore underneath.

   Sadly, the peace didn’t last long.

   Camila was just holding the front strands of her hair to the back of her head in a hypothetical notion, when a noise in the living room halted her actions.

   Her eyes darted to the door, waiting for it to open and for it to just be Alba.

   She waited two long minutes but no one appeared. Instead the sound of someone bumping into the couch and a soft curse took its place. Whoever was in her living room, sure as hell wasn’t Alba. And they definitely weren’t quiet.

   Camila rose to her feet, gently pushing the comfy chair back. She tightened the dressing gown around her and stuffed her feet in a pair of slippers at the end of her bed.

   The Senator carefully walked towards the door, stopping at the cabinet that held photos and personal items on top, reaching behind it and pulling a blaster pistol out of its holster. She always kept her jewelled handled spitfire blasters either on her person on in her room at all times.

   Camila slowly cocked the blaster, removing the safety, making it ready to shoot if necessary.

   She snuck out of her room, her slippers making no noise as she crept towards the living room. She stopped at the large, archway that linked the bedroom hallway to the living room. Camila pressed herself against the wall and carefully peered around the tall pillar.

   Someone in a brown cloak, hood up, was looking around the room, trying to navigate their way in the dark without having to turn the lights on. They weren’t doing the best of jobs.

   Camila heard them let out a frustrated sigh before they pulled a torch out from under their cloak and turned it on, flashing it around the room. She immediately backed against the wall in order to avoid the white light.

   When she heard no indication that the person had seen her, she released the breath she didn’t know she was holding and checked around the pillar once again.

   They were looking at the painted pictures on the wall of herself that the Queen had a painter do when she became Naravi IV’s Senator.

   While their back was turned to the front door, she put her hand in her gown’s pocket and activated the comm that was in there, signalling to her guards that there was an imposter.

   Not even a minute later, four of her personal guards that were on duty and their Captain rushed into the room, weapons raised at the intruder.

   Camila stepped out from behind the pillar, her calm posture hiding the fear she felt in case this person was after her daughter. She joined her guards, raising her blaster and pointing at the imposter’s head.

   “Who are you and what are you doing here?” Camila demanded, authority wrapped around her calm, seductive voice.

   The person raised their hands high, the torch lighting up the ceiling. When the guards had run in, the lamps around the room had turned on to illuminate the living room.

   “Don’t shoot.” They said, their voice indicating that they were in fact a man. A clone. She’d heard the voice a million times.

   “Turn around!” Captain Narvor ordered and the clone’s shoulders rose slightly before doing so, slowly. They turned to face Camila, lifting their head and slowly pushing the hood off their head.

   “Hello cyare."

   "Wha- What the kriff are you doing here, bastard!" Camila gestures the gun at him.

   Why was he here?!

   Why was she scared?!

   The second question worried her the most. She wasn’t scared of him, was she?!

   The guards move forward slightly and he raises his hand higher. "I'm sorry, Mila. For leaving. I'm so sorry." He says, his eyes not leaving hers despite that fact she didn't look him directly in the eye. She couldn't bring herself too.

   “Mila…” He whispers her name, wanting her to look at him, properly. "That's not good enough though, is it?" She says.

   He sighs, before looking around at the guards that edged closer.

   “Come to think of it, I’ve never actually been here before.” He says, admiring the room.

   “Seriously, what are you doing here?!” She asks, almost shouting as she steps forward.

   “To see you, Mila. To apologise.” He reasons, his hands gesturing around in the air.

   The guards step closer, holding their guns securely, and he eases his gesturing, watching them cautiously.

   “You can’t be here.” Camila replies.

   “Cyar’ika, please. I just want to explain.” He begs and Camila grits her teeth at the name. Hearing it fall from his lips, again. She’d always loved when he called her names in mando’a. But it was painful. He left.

   “Don’t call me that. You have no right to call me that anymore.” She bites back and he visibly flinches at her tone. His expression drops and he lowers his eyes to the carpeted floor.

   Camila sighs and lowers her blaster.

   “Stand down.” She orders her guards and they do so, hesitantly.

   “Thank you, Senator.” Rex says, slightly monotonous. She glared at him then quickly looked down, but she could feel his eyes burning into the side of her head.

   She turns to the captain of her guards.

   “Return to your posts and please remain outside the door. I may have you fetch Nanij if Alba awakens.” She tells him quietly.

   He nods, “if you’re sure, Senator. I don’t know how I feel about you talking to him alone, after what he did. I don’t think the others would either.”

   She smiles at him. It’s small but it’s there, “I appreciate your concern, Captain. They aren’t here and I would prefer you to remain outside. This is between me and him.”

   He nods again, before bowing his head and leaving after his troops. Camila watches them go before sighing.

   “Sit down and remove your hood. Formalities are necessary after you broke into a lady’s home.”

   “Yes, ma’am.” Rex replies and does as she asks. She sits down on the armchair opposite, her posture straight and upright, blaster patiently sat on her lap.

   “I haven’t seen you in over three years, haven’t spoken to you in over two years and then you suddenly show up, out of the blue, at my own home. You have a hell of a lot of explaining to do, Rex.”

   “And I will do, Cy— Senator.” Rex stumbles over his words on what to address her. This was going to be hard enough as it is.

   “Where have you been, Rex? Not even two months after you left all those years ago, you started going dry on me.” Camila demands.

   “Dry on you? You were dry with me, Senator. Your messages got shorter and shorter and your replies further and further apart!” Rex accuses.

   “That was you!” Camila bites back, “your replies grew rare until they stopped all together. You never replied to my last message.”

   “I was busy!”

   “And you don’t think I wasn’t?! I am a Senator and a soldier, Rex. If I didn’t have contacts within the GAR then I honestly would’ve thought you dead. And I did! And that was so hard on me! But you weren’t. Even when you were on Coruscant, you never thought to come see me!” Camila almost shouts back.

   “You could’ve come and found me, if you knew I was on leave!” Rex counters, both of them on the edge of their seats as they argue.

   “How would that have looked, Rex?! A Senator in the GAR base. In your barracks. It wouldn’t have looked good.” Camila replies, voice slightly quieter than before.

   “Look, I’m sorry, okay? I am. I was just…” He looks around the room as if looking for his next words, his voice calmer than before, “…I was scared. I wasn’t sure what to do. How to continue. But I didn’t know what to say. And the longer it went on, the more scared I got, to the point I just couldn’t bring myself to see you. I was scared of how you would react if I showed my face again.”

   Camila frowns him, sympathising, “and yet you did it anyway. It would’ve been worse the longer you waited and it is worse, Rex. It’s been three years!”

   “I know, I know, I know, and I’m sorry. I’m so sorry!” He apologises, repeatedly, starting to mutter.

   “That’s not going to repair anything, Rex. That’s not going to bring back almost four years of our life together.” Four years that Alba has gone without her father!

   “I know, Mila. But don’t you think you could’ve reached out to me too?! You can’t put all the blame on me!”

   “Yeah, I know. I know. But I kind of can. I was the last one that messaged. I messaged you, needing to talk to you. Wanting to see you. And you didn’t reply. Didn’t say anything, Rex!” Camila says, trying to fight the tears welling in her eyes.

   Rex closes his eyes and presses the pad of his thumb to the corner of his eye.

   “Mila. Look. I didn’t—“

   Movement from the hallway, causes him to stop talking. He turns to look, past Camila and towards the arch. Camila closes her eyes, lowering her head to her chest before slowly turning around to look.

   A small shadow appears around the corner, slowly followed by the body of a four year old. Alba’s sandy blonde hair was in two plaits on either side of her head and she was hugging her a blue and white tooka doll. Her big brown eyes stare at the two adults in the living room as she shuffles into the light.

   “Alba, honey. What are you doing up?” Camila says, getting to her feet. And adoring smile graces her features causing Rex to stare at her a little longer before he looked at the young girl.

   “I heard voices.” Alba says with a small smile as Camila picks her up.

   The Senator rests her against her hip bone as she pushes a couple strands of hair out of the young girl’s face. Alba’s pale pjs were silk like her mother’s and Camila had to hold her tightly so she doesn’t slip down her dressing gown.

   “You heard voices? Huh? Was the monsters under your bed?” Camila asks with a playful grin, tickling Alba’s stomach as she walks back over to the couch.

   “No.” Alba replies with a giggle.

   “No? Was it Balba?” Camila asks with an innocent look on her face as she points at the toy in Alba’s hands.

   “No. It was you.”

   “It was me?” She feigns confusion and Alba laughs at her. Camila smiles.

   “Yeah. It was you!” Alba accuses.

   “How dare you accuse me of such treachery?” Camila replies, dramatically placing the back of her hand against her forehead. Alba giggles loudly.

   Rex stares at the mother and daughter, mildly confused but attracted to it as well. Camila was really good with kids.

   Camila sits back down on the couch, Alba in her lap as she lightly tickles the little girl. Alba playfully tries to push her hands away and Camila grins at her daughter.

   “Mama, stop!”

   “You want me to stop? How dare you accuse me of such things! Oh, oh!” Camila replies dramatically and Alba laughs loudly, wriggling in the young Senator’s grip.

   “I’m sorry, what?” Rex asks, unsure if he heard correctly.

   Camila looks up at him, slightly guiltily as her grins fades.

   “Rex…” She mutters as he frowns at her, glancing between her and the child on her lap.

   “Hanging on, wait. The last thing you message me was….“

   “….I have to tell you something.” Camila quietly repeated the message. It was a couple months before Alba’s first birthday that she had sent it. She’d gotten no reply and had never messaged him since. Now he’d find out what she wanted to tell him.

   He points at Alba and the young girl buries herself back into her mother.

   “Is this what you wanted to tell me? That you had a kid?” He asks. Despite being angry at the secret she’d been keeping from him, his voice remains fairly quiet for the child’s sake.

   The longer he looks at the two, the more he sees him common. The same nose, the same lip shape, same lightly tanned skin. Alba’s full eyes were the exact replica of Camila’s. But the differences. Alba’s eye colour, weren’t Camila’s. No they were a honey-brown. A soft brown. A brown that he’d seen so many times. It was like looking in a reflection. And the hair colour. The dirty blonde wasn’t Camila’s.

   “How old is she?” Rex asks, quietly. His voice is calm as his eyes flicker over to Camila. She immediately looks away from him, putting her hand in her pocket and pulling out her comm. She activates it and quietly asks Captain Narvor to wake Nanij. Alba groans slightly on her lap, not wanting her nanny/handmaiden to take her away from her mother. Camila gives her a saddened look at Alba falls quiet.

   “Camila…” He says it quietly. And it surprised her, slightly. He never called her by her full, first name. Only once, when they’d first met and she’d told him to just call her Mila. Now, he called her Camila.

   “Rex, please. Not now.” She replies, quietly. She picks up Alba, rising to her feet and slowly walking away from Rex.

   He stands and follows her, though.

   “Mama…?”

   “Yes, now, Mila!” Rex demands and Camila flinches.

   “Mama, why does he sound like Uncle Wolffe?” Alba asks.

   “Not now, Alla.” Camila says.

   “Uncle Wolffe? Wait, Wolffe knows?!” Rex questions, his voice picking up again. Camila spins around, holding Alba close to her, the young girl buries her head against her mother’s chest but looks at the clone Captain, practically feeling the bit of rage that was rolling off her mother.

   “Rex. Stop! Please! Yes, Wolffe knows! Of course, he knows. He’s my friend. Not what I can say about you though!” Camila bites back as the doors of room open. Captain Narvor and Nanij coming running in.

   “-about me? What do you-? Mila?!” He stutters, slightly.

   “Stand down, clone.” Captain Narvor says, holding his weapon at Rex.

   Camila pushes Alba’s head in her shoulder so she doesn’t see and Nanij places a hand on the Senator’s shoulder.

   “M’lady.” She says and Camila smiles gratefully at her. She hands Alba to the handmaiden and Nanij immediately cradles the young girl against her.

   “Captain.” Camila taps her hand in the air, so her guards’ Captain would lower his weapon. He does so, reluctantly, but doesn’t take his eyes of Rex.

   “Please, put her back to bed.” Camila murmurs to Nanij and the handmaiden nods, bowing her head slightly before leaving with Alba.

   “Mila. Tell me. Who’s child is she?” Rex asks, his voice somewhat calm again.

   “Mine. She’s my child. My daughter.” Camila replies, authority back in her voice, “and you will never question that.”

   “I know. And I won’t. But, cya— Mila! Who’s the father?” He questions quietly, shutting his eyes briefly as he once again stumbles over how to address her.

   Camila doesn’t reply, looking away from him. She takes a deep breath and begins to walk back over to the couch.

   “Mila… Who’s the father?”

   “You have to understand, I was protecting her. And you’d practically disappeared and I was scared.” Camila says, sitting down.

   Rex slowly walks over to the couch as well, his eyes not leaving her slightly slumped frame, no longer tall and elegant like she was earlier. Captain Narvor glances worriedly at her before returning his eyes to watch Rex’s movements.

   “Mila…” Rex murmurs.

   “She was born nine months after you left. And turned four about half a year ago. She remained a secret and still is a secret with only a select few knowing of her existence. After you were gone, she was all I had and I was terrified that someone might take that away from me. Terrified that if I truly revealed her to the world that both you and I would get into trouble. I messaged you, wanting to tell you about her when you didn't reply I just didn’t bother.” She talks quietly but it isn’t all that slow as she explains herself to him. He sits down opposite her as she does so, a somewhat pitiful look on his face as he watches her respectfully.

   “Rex, you have to understand that I didn’t search you out properly because I didn’t want to endanger her. If something happened to you, I didn’t want anyone finding out you existed. I was pregnant and scared and alone and you were no where. You didn’t answer me. You barely spoke to me. I hadn’t seen you at all. I needed you, Rex.” She looks at him them. Looks properly. She sees the bags under his eyes, the little bit of dirt on his cheek. She sees the faint line of scar tissue along the side of his head and his blonde buzz was slightly thicker than when she’d last seen him. A little bit of stubble lined his jaw line but despite it all she couldn’t take her eyes away from the honey-brown eyes that drew her in so much. She really had missed him.

   “I’m so sorry, Mila. Truly. I understand. I do. But i want to meet her. I want to get to know her, now I know she exists,” Camila looks away from him and back down to her hands that rested anxiously in her lap, “please, Mila.”

   She’s quiet for a minute as she thinks. He deserves to get to know her. Alba deserves to know her father.

   She looks back up, but not at him.

   The Senator nods her head before getting to her feet.

   “Please have someone prepare Rex a room. He shall join us for breakfast in the morning.” She says to Captain Narvor. He bows his head at her. Camila turns back to Rex, again not really looking at him though.

   “You may stay until you have to leave. Hopefully Alba’s a better reason for you to stick around.” She tells him before spinning in her heal and leaving the room.

   Rex sighs and stares after her in defeat. At least he can stay.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Jesus. That was a bit emotional. I did cry while planning this but it didn't turn out as well as I would've liked.

So Rex is here. My sweet man. He's been through so much. And is going to go though a bit more with Camila until the two finally sort things out. It might be a while.
Him and Camila are complicated and so full of angst but they do love each other and Camila misses him, she really does.
Little bit of Alba and Camila fluff to break up the argument.
Oh and big secret. REX IS THE FATHER!! Yeah, it was kind of obvious but now he knows.
Alba low-key revealing secrets to him and then Captain Narvor standing up for Camila. He's great. So loyal.
Oh and Nanij. I love her and Inej, the two are great. So gorgeous.

Finally, Camila lets him stay. It's going to be a good few chapters with a bit of fluff and angst. I'm excited and also kind of nervous.

Please remember that I end up plotting this all in my head and kind of going with the flow with no proper plan at all but i hope you all like it!!!

Chapter 5: beautifully horrible dream

Summary:

Camila and Rex have a proper chat...

 

somnia sint in praeteritum sed numquam oblivione – the nightmares may be in the past but they are never forgotten

 

          Camila was anxious the next morning. She took her time getting ready, refusing to leave her room until the very last second. After leaving Rex in the living room with her guards, last night, she couldn’t bring herself to go to bed. He was on the front of her mind. The look on his face when he saw her, when he saw Alba. The words that left his mouth. But all the lies, all the truths, all the memories, all the nightmares , were there too. Haunting her. To say she was anxious was an understatement. In truth, Camila was terrified. She secretly had her fingers crossed that it was all a dream. A beautifully horrible dream!

   She couldn’t drag it out anymore and she knew Alba was awake, having heard the young girl’s voice and her running footsteps, followed by Nanij’s quiet laughter, in the hallway. Camila hoped Rex wasn’t up but she knew he would be. He was a soldier.

   The Senator locks eyes with Inej, who had joined her not long ago. The handmaiden gives her a small smile and Camila nods slightly. 

   “Let’s do this.” She mutters, before opening the door and stepping out into the hallway, Inej just behind her.

   The pink and yellow flowery skirt trails on the ground behind her as she walks to the dining room. It is attached to a simple bodice with a halter neck, adorned in silver gems. Her shoulders are bare, with the sleeves attached instead to the bodice under her armpits. They were baggy, falling loosely around her wrists, silver chains looped around the top. Matching silver bracelets adorn her wrists with several silver gemmed rings to decorate her fingers. Her brunette curls are pulled up into a slightly messy but sophisticated updo, curly strands falling down to frame her face. Several hooped and gemmed piercings cover her ears, finalising the Senator’s regal but young look.

   Rex’s eyes are on her as soon as she enters the dining room. He’s sat a few seats down from where she usually sits beside the head of the table. Camila always refuses to sit at the head of table, believing that despite her being a senator she wouldn’t make her family feel any lesser than her and that everyone in the room were her equals, despite their status. The brunette sits beside her daughter, determined to ignore Rex as his eyes burn into the side of her face. She greets Alba with a bright smile and a cheerful ‘good morning’ that surprises Rex after last night's events. He smiles himself, though, when the little girl greets her mother just as cheerfully and gives her a hug before going back to eating her eggs.

   Camila surprises herself when she turns her head away from her daughter and to Alba’s father, a small smile still gracing her features.

   “Good morning.” She says, quietly. Rex raises his eyebrows slightly, in surprise, and even Alba falls quiet.

   “Morning.” The clone replies, copying her smile. Camila nods before looking down at her plate and lifting her knife and fork, beginning to eat her breakfast. Rex follows suit, his smile not leaving his face as a million thoughts rush through his head. 

   Alba soon picks up her conversation with her mother again, about ships. The young girl’s dream is to be a pilot and a mechanic, much like her mother when Camila was her age. It’s a pretty big dream for a four year old but Alba is determined and has already managed to persuade her mother into letting her begin learning. And so the young girl was already enrolled in a mechanics class at her school and, when she could, Camila would take her daughter flying across the city and the hills surrounding the capital.

   Camila maintains the conversation with her daughter, chuckling slightly at her big dreams and desires to be a pilot, as they all eat their breakfast. About twenty minutes later, they’re all finished and Camila is crouched in front of her daughter at the front door before the young girl departs for school. Rex watches from his place by the balcony, while pretending to be watching the thriving city below. 

   “You’ve got everything?” Camila asks her daughter, a playful smile on her face.

   “Yes, mama!” Alba replies.

   “You sure? You got your holopad?” Alba nods, “You got your pencil case?” She nods again and Camila smiles wider, “You got your shaving foam and razor for that bullies head?” 

   “Mama!” 

   “What?” Camila questions, feigning innocence as she holds her hands up. Alba giggles and Camila soon joins her, smiling playfully at her daughter. 

   Rex watches them with a smile, marvelling over his old lover’s relationship with their daughter. His smile saddens as he realises everything he’d missed with young Alba.

   Alba then steps forward and hugs Camila, nestling her small head in the crook of her neck. Camila’s smile softens as she presses the side of her face into her daughter’s blonde waves, smelling the floral shampoo that Nanij used to wash her hair the previous night.

   “I love you, mama.” Alba whispers, before pulling away and smiling at her. Camila tilts her head slightly, watching her daughter lovingly.

   “I love you too, Alla.”

   Alba’s eyes flicker over to Rex, turning her smile to him, “Bye-bye!” She tells him, before spinning around on her heels, her small hands gripping the backpack she wears and following her personal guard, Tavin, out of the room.

   Camila sighs quietly, before getting to her feet, stepping away from the door and turning around, her shoes clicking slightly on the wooden flooring. She looks at Rex for a second and flashes her eyebrows up, a small smile still on her face from her daughter.

   “She reminds me of Ahsoka.” Camila tells him, quietly, “Still cheerful and spirited despite the horrors of the galaxy and this new Empire. It makes me worry for her future.”

   “I was going to say that she reminds me of you. Determined, headstrong, powerful with her words and actions. I heard her at breakfast. She’s got big dreams for a four year old. That’s all you, Mila.” Rex replies, smiling softly as he nods towards the door that Alba had just left through. He’d already missed four years of his daughter’s life and he met her yesterday. Already, Rex could see that Alba was clearly Camila’s daughter. He could also see just how well that Camila had raised her, and is still doing so.

   “Thank you, Rex.” Camila mutters but Rex hears the thanks and nods slightly at her. 

   A moment of silence passes between the two, millions of questions to ask each other filling their minds but neither having the courage to ask. As tense as the atmosphere of the living room had become, it was also somewhat of a comfort. The same comfort that echoed from four years ago when they’d fallen in love before everything between them seemed to shatter. Both are partially thankful that they are now complete alone.

   Rex is the first to break the silence, asking a question to begin a long line of questions and answers, truths and confessions.

   “Can we talk? I understand that last night wasn’t the ideal time to have that conversation, especially when Alba came in, but do you think we could talk properly now that we have no interruptions, and try to settle a few things between us?”

   Camila sighs, already having predicted what he was going to ask. He had questions about Alba. He had apologies and truth be told, so did she, but she was scared to talk about it. She didn’t really want things out in the open. Camila had spent four years worrying over him, where he was, what had happened between them, why he was ignoring her, if he was okay?! Four years, where she’d come up with countless apologies and confessions and so many things she wanted to tell him. Her email drafts were full of countless letters talking about everything and anything that was going on in her life, the bills she was working for, the things Alba was into, the worries of the war. She’s said so much in those letters but had never brought herself to send them. And now, he was back and stood in front of her, she was scared. She was speechless. Now, she didn’t know what to say. 

   But she guesses she could always start with some truths and some answers. And maybe some questions of her own.

   “Okay. We can talk.” She replies quietly, moving over to the sofa. Rex follows, surprised but relieved that she wants to talk. He takes a seat on the opposite sofa, a bit rigid despite no longer wearing his armour. He wore a brown flannel shirt with a few buttons undone and a pair of blue jeans.

   Camila smiles a bit, “You can relax, Rex, this isn’t an interrogation cell, only my home. You look like you were forced to be here.”

   Rex nods stiffly, before forcing himself to relax against the cushions, leaning into the back of the sofa, just as Camila does the same opposite.

   She chuckles quietly at him and then pauses, deciding what to say next, “So, what did you want to talk about? You can go first, Captain.” She brushes a piece of lint from the skirt of her dress, before raising her eyes to look at him. He’s watching her, carefully, as if looking for something, a tell, a sign of lies. When he meets her eyes, a small blush appears and he drops his watching gaze to the floor.

   “Ok.” He answers quietly, “Why didn’t you tell me about Alba?”

   Camila sighs, “I was protecting her, Rex. She’s my only daughter and the most important person in my life. You had disappeared and ghosted me, and I thought it was best for me not to look for you, to search you out. She was fine. And it was better that way. Better than no one knew – or barely anyone knew – so neither of us would get into trouble.” Camila looks over at the painting of her and Alba on the wall next to the dining room, “I wanted to tell you, Rex. But I thought you didn’t want to see me. I thought you were done with me and after you never replied to my message, wanting to talk to you, needing to tell you something… tell you about Alba. I just left it.”

   She falls silent and Rex sighs.

   “I am sorry, Mila.” 

   Camila nods, “I know.”

   They’re both silent for a minute, both thinking about Alba in different ways of time whether together or apart.

   “It's my turn to ask a question now.”

   Rex nods at her, watching her patiently.

   “Where have you been, Rex? It’s been three years. I understand the war was hard but it’s been so long. And the war’s been over for months.” 

   “The war only got worse after that last time I saw you. When things started getting dry between us I assumed you wanted to cut things off but I assume it was both of being a bit distant because of the war… and a miscommunication.” He lifts his eyes to look at her and they both let out a small chuckle, “It was getting tough. We lost Echo and then Umbara happened and that was… that was tough on anyone. We lost Hardcase and…” He falls silent, remembering the mission to Umbara and all the men he lost under Krell’s orders. “Anyways, things only went downhill. And we weren’t talking so I didn’t have much to keep me happier.” Camila looks at him sympathetically as he continues to stare at the floor, “Fives died towards the end of the war and then we got Echo back. But it was hard. It all was. The war took a toll on all of us, you remember.” He looks up at her and Camila sees the small tears in his eyes. “WIthin in the last few days of the war, Ahsoka came back and I joined her and half of the 501st to Mandalore. We went after Maul. On our way back, Order 66 happened. After all that, I started helping my brothers that were stuck in the Empire. As the effects of the chip started wearing off, more started to defect. I’ve been working with a couple of those that survived to try and help.”

   “Sounds like you got it worse. I’m so sorry you went through all that, Rex.” Camila says. He nods at her before taking a deep breath and wiping a finger under his eye. “I heard about Fives. I wish I could’ve been there. I hate now knowing you went through all that. I didn’t even know. I really am sorry.”

   Rex nods again, “Is it my turn to ask a question now?”

   Camila wasn’t surprised at the sudden change of topic. She knew Rex well enough. So she nods and gestures for him to continue. 

   “What about you? Where have you been?”

   Camila smiles and lets out a small laugh, “Mostly here.” She says, “Alba has been my top priority and as has keeping her safe. My representative, Talia, has spent most of her time in the Senate when I am absent. But I have been on Coruscant a few times. I spent the first six months of my pregnancy there before coming back here to give birth, and Alba’s second year was spent mostly on Coruscant because of a bill Padmé, Riyo and I were trying to pass. Since then I've been on and off Coruscant and sometimes I would go to Naboo or Chandrilla. I was on Coruscant trying to pass a bill that would counteract the military enhancement bill for a couple years ago. We were unsuccessful though.” Camila sighs before shaking it off, “I haven’t been on the field much since Alba turned two though. And the only squad they’d ever put me with were the Wolfpack. With General Koon and Commander Wolffe. That’s where Wolffe and I became close and why he knows of Alba. He’d met her once when she was on Coruscant and he’d come to pick me up for a small mission.”

   Rex nods, a small smile on his face as he watches her talk of her job and her daughter. The look Camila got when she mentioned her daughter was one Rex now loved to see appear on her beautiful features. He’d missed her. Of course he had. He’d thought of her every day since they’d parted and many times he’d caught himself clicking on her name, wanting to message her. Call her. Wanting to talk to her. See her face. He’d missed her so much. But he couldn’t tell her that. She was mad at him. Despite how she’d spoken to him, looked at him with sympathy and apologised for what he’d gone through in the war. She was still mad at him.

   By now the sun had reached the point in the sky that it was blaring through Camila’s wide windows and reflecting into their eyes.

   “Perhaps a walk.” Camila offers, “Alba seems a much happier topic to talk about and the sun seems most mean right now.”

   Rex chuckles and the two rise to their feet. Yes, their daughter was a much more pleasant talk.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

so from the top.
Alba is so cute. Her dreams to become a mechanic will be mentioned more in this book and she is ment to have her own book set during Rebels where we'll hopefully see her pilot and mechanic dreams come true.
I love her so much.

And then Camila and Rex. They are my heart. I love them forever. They're so complicated but this talk is needed but is not the end of the angst or their path to settle their relationship.
But this conversation was good and much needed. I almost cried for Rex, I feel so bad for him and everything he went through and this will be mentioned more later on in the book as they'll talk about it.
And I will not take any hate for Camila for her reasoning to keep Alba from Rex and not search for him. She's a mother.

But they're going for a walk in the palace gardens. To talk about their daughter. That's such a parent thing. Rex is going to settle into the father role well and i'm looking forward to seeing him and Alba interact more.

That's it for this chapter. I don't really know how i feel about but i love Mila and Rex so much. Hope you're all having a good day!! Ly x

Chapter 6: to protect you

Summary:

Rex has to leave..

 

semel amissa fiducia, difficilis recuperatio — once trust is lost, its difficult to regain

 

     Watching Rex with Alba over the next few days was something Camila didn’t think she could ever unsee. The two of them had bonded quickly and when she and Rex had talked about their daughter, he seemed to have taken everything she’d said into account. Alba looked the happiest she’d been in ages and it surprised Camila at how well Rex seemed to be with kids. She would find herself just watching them, a faint smile on her face, before she’d catch herself and look away. She trusted Rex with their daughter but not with her feelings. Camila wasn’t certain where she and Rex stood and she wasn’t even sure she wanted to know. All she knew was that Alba was glad to finally have her father and Camila loved how Alba seemed to look at Rex.

   Despite this though, the fear that Rex would leave and never come back again, remained. She didn’t want Alba to get hurt and disappointed when Rex was going to leave. She feared that Alba's new found relationship with her father would bring an unwanted grief for her daughter should he never return. This got worse when Rex told her that he had to go.

   “Shocker.” She mutters.

   “Mila, you knew I wouldn’t be able to stay long.” He says. 

   Alba had since gone to bed, leaving the two adults alone. The sun had already set, so the moon shone into the dimly lit living room. Camila had already activated the blinds but it still shone through the gaps. 

   “I knew.” She replies, “I just worry that if you never come back, Alba would be rather upset. She’s grown quite fond of you.”

   “And what about you?” He asks, his voice quiet as he stares at her.

   Camila shifts slightly under his gaze. It had been a while since she’d experienced him flirting with her and she hated the things it did to her. She couldn’t bring herself to trust him again. Not with her. Alba was his daughter, as much as she was hers. But Camila had more of a history with him and she didn't know if she’d be able to trust him like she used to, like her daughter seems to. It still didn’t stop her from wanting him, that tiny little bit.

   “I don’t expect you to come back.” She says, ignoring the feelings, “I only want you to for our daughter’s sake. Or I'll have to deal with her upset.”

   Rex sighs and looks away, “How long is it going to take for you to trust me again?”

   “Prove yourself multiple times and I’ll think about it.” She answers.

   “So a long time?”

   Camila nods at him. He returns his gaze to her, watching her through his lashes as she picks a bit of lint off her dress.

   She looks back up at him once it’s gone and immediately notices him watching her.

   She sighs, “Don’t look at me like that.”

   “Why not?” He asks with a smirk.

   “It makes me feel uncomfortable.” She stands from her seat on the couch.

   Rex lets out an angry sigh and gets up.

   “Mila, I’m not going to leave you, again. Not returning to you was the biggest mistake I've ever made!” He follows her as she walks away, “You know what transpired and I want things to go back to the way they were.”

   “You mean before you left? Before I found out I was pregnant with your daughter? Before I had to raise Alba all by myself for four years?” She spins around to look at him with a glare and he comes to a sudden halt, inches away from her.

   “How many times do I have to say it? I’m sorry, okay! If I knew you were pregnant I would’ve come back.” He inches closer to her.

   “And if I wasn’t pregnant? Would you have returned to me anyways?” She asks daringly.

   He remains silent. Camila’s chest aches. As soon as she thinks about the possibility of trusting him, he always seems to prove to her why she shouldn’t.

   “That’s what I thought.” She says, quietly, and steps away from him.

   “Mila. I loved you. Heck, I still do!” He says, grabbing her wrist.

   “Well, you clearly didn’t love me enough.” She whispers, loud enough for him to hear, as she stares at the ground. Small tears well in her eyes. The ache in her chest gets worse as she listens to him.

   “I didn’t want you to love me the way I loved you .” Rex admits, “If anything happened to me, I didn’t want to put you through that. I thought slowly cutting you off would ease the pain of me dying on the field.” His voice breaks slightly and Camila slowly shakes her head, “If I had known you were pregnant, I never would’ve done it. I did it to protect you but it pained me. It pained me so much to do so.”

   A tear rolls down Camila’s cheek. Rex releases her wrist and steps away from her.

   “I really am, so sorry.” He whispers. He stays for a second before walking away, seemingly understanding that no matter how he tried, things would never go back to the way they were.

   Camila squeezes her eyes shut and doesn’t move. The ache in her chest is almost unbearable now as she presses her fist against her chest. As soon as she hears his door shut, she clamps a hand over her mouth and turns away. Stifling a sob, she quickly walks to her room. After her door shuts, she presses against and slides down to the floor. Quiet sobs leave her as tears roll down her cheeks.

   Why was it so hard? Why were there so many layers to the truth? Why couldn’t she bring herself to trust and love him again like she did her?

 

          Camila didn’t get up as quickly the next morning. She heard Alba leave for school and she ignored the knocks and quiet calls from Inej.

   It wasn’t until almost midday, did Camila decide to get up. She dressed and readied herself slowly, applying simple makeup and tying her hair into an easy bun. She attaches a silver head piece to the crown of her head and then to the bun. Completely the look with pink, dangling earrings that matched her dress and a few silver rings and bracelets, plus a traditional Naravi necklace. Camila then leaves her room, hoping she’d avoided the drama of last night.

   Unfortunately, she hadn’t.

   He’s sitting on the couch when she walks into the living room, his back to her and his bag beside him. He seems to be looking at something on his datapad and doesn’t hear her enter.

   “You’re still here, are you?” She asks, walking over to the couch before stopping when she gets at least a metre away.

   He looks up at her, his hazel eyes scanning the dress she’s wearing.

   “And you’re awake,” He replies, “I thought I’d wait for you, before I left. For old time sake.”

   Camila hums, a small smile forming on her face. She quickly gets rid of it though.

   “Whatever. Did you tell Alba you were leaving?”

   “I said goodbye to her this morning.” He informs her as he gets up from his seat.

   “Good. Did you promise her you’d come back? Like you did me?” She asks and he tilts his head at her, unamused.

   “Yes.”

   “You better keep to it this time.” 

   Rex rolls his eyes. There’s a small silence before Camila quickly breaks it.

   “Well, you’ve said goodbye to her, why are you still here?” She asks.

   “Like I said. I was waiting for you.” He replies.

   “Why? I don’t care.” She ignores the small ache in the pit of her stomach.

   “Sure.” His eyes drop to the ground. He sighs and then picks up his bag.

   “Well then, I’ll see you later.” He says.

   “Alright.” 

   He nods and turns away, walking towards the door.

   “Rex.” Camila quietly calls his name and he pauses just by the front door. He turns to look at her and she watches him with a troubled look.

   “Please don’t abandon her, like you did me. She’ll never get over it. Please.” She asks, her eyes filling with sorrow.

  Rex nods at her, watching her with slight pity, “I promise, Senator.”

   And with that, he was gone.

 

 

 

Notes:

HAPPY MAY FOURTH Y'ALL!!! HAPPY STAR WARS DAY!!!!

They're so full of angst it's actually so painful.
So that's chapter six. sorry it's so short, I just wanted to get something out today and didn't have much motivation for it. It's a bit of a filler and classic Rexmila angst.

I love them so much and I hate how much pain i'm putting them through but it has to happen.
Just wrote the first chapter for my tbb fic ( set in the clone wars ) and have almost finished act one of my crosshair fic. Lmk if you want me to post.
Also lmk what you want to see with this fic too!!

Anyways, hope everyone's having a good day/night!!
May the fourth be with you!

Chapter 7: her mother

Summary:

a meeting with the Queen and some very sad news...

 

 

etiam cum abierint, tamen cogitationem tuam inveniunt — even when they are gone, they still find a way to haunt your thoughts

 

 

       Camila internally sighs as she listens to the Senators debating about the banking clan yet again. They’ve been discussing it for the p ast twenty minutes and it is taking everything in her not to end the holocall. She wasn’t able to attend the meeting in person, simply because she didn’t want to leave Alba. Her daughter had been a bit detached ever since Rex left and she was running out of things to entertain her.

   Camila pinches the bridge of her nose as she stifles a yawn. She looks over at Captain Narvor with a bored look. He smiles at her and steps forward.

   “Senator Ri’vane.” He speaks quietly but the other Senator’s notice the Captain speaking to her.

   “The Queen requires your presence.” 

   “Thank you, Captain.” He nods at her and backs away, “Forgive me, Senators, but I must meet the Queen. Please let me know of the outcome.”

   They all nod at her and bid her farewell before she ends the call.

   “Oh thank the gods,” She groans, “That was boring.”

   Captain Narvor chuckles, “The Queen does need to see you though, milady.” 

   She nods and gets up from her seat, “Of course. Thank you, Captain.”

   Camila turns to Inej and nods at her. The handmaiden follows her out of her apartment, along with two guards, as they make their way to the Queen’s Audience Room.

 

       Camila’s purple skirts skim the black and white tiles as she enters the Queen’s Audience Room. She stops several metres away and drops into a low and grateful curtsy. 

   “Senator.” the Queen greets.

   Camila looks up at her before slowly rising, “Your majesty requested to see me?”

   “I did.” 

   Queen Elvira rises from her throne and descends the steps, her footman just behind her.

   “I wish to show you my latest arrivals.”

   “Ah.” Camila nods and the two walk out the audience room. 

   They walk through the halls of the palace, making their way to the royal gardens.

   “Who is the man that was staying in your quarters until a few days ago?” Queen Elvira questions after a while.

   Camila grimaces, “You know about that?”

   “That maybe where you live, Senator Ri’vane, but this is my palace.” the Queen reminds her with a small smile.

   “Of course.” Camila resists the urge to roll her eyes, “That would be the Captain I've told you about. Alba’s father.”

   The Queen stares at her, “The one who abandoned you both four years ago?”

   “Yes, your majesty.” Camila replies, quietly.

   “And you just let him stay with you?” She asks.

   “Yes, your majesty.”

   Queen Elvira sighs, “You remind me of your mother sometimes.”

   Camila looks away from the Queen and at the pillars of the line hall they walk down.

   Her mother had recently been taken ill and, although she rarely spoke to her parents, she still worried for her.

   They eventually reach the gardens and the Queen brings Camila to a group of enclosures.

   Camila spots several Blurrg in one and a few Dewbacks in another. The final cage is empty. 

  “Beautiful, your majesty.” Camila compliments.

   The Queen huffs, “Do not lie, Senator. They’re ugly beasts.”

   Camila smiles, trying to resist laughing.

   “Now.” The Queen links her arm with Camila’s, “Let me show you where I keep my rancor.”

   Camila nods in interest and they both then walk away from the enclosures.

 

         Later, Camila sits at her desk as she works. She attempts to focus on the stats in front of her but mind keeps drifting elsewhere. To her ill mother. Despite her older sister, Burót, practically raising her and Hazel, Camila always was the closest to their mother. Both their parents were fairly distant during their childhood. Camila hated that. She always made sure she spent as much time as she could with Alba. She didn’t want her daughter growing up the same way she did. She already had one parent who she’s only met once, she didn’t want Alba to have a distant mother.

   But Camila knew from a young age why her mother was always so unreliable. Why her mother worked extra hours at the palace. There were days where Camila sympathised with her mother. Burót never really accepted what happened that day, she refused to. Even though Camila argued with her so many times for her to care, for her to notice, her older sister never did. Hazel was too young to know what happened, to understand. She was only two years old at the time.

   Their mother was pregnant, and she went into labour a month early. Camila remembers the cries of agony, the yells from her father. Their mother birthed Camila’s youngest sister several hours later. But the baby wasn’t alive. She wasn’t breathing. Her mother almost died from heartbreak. Camila remembers clutching a sleeping Hazel to her body as she listened to her mother’s cries. She remembers Burót walking out the house, refusing to listen. Refusing to notice.

   The house was quiet, days after. Burót was emotionless, stepping up, though, to raise her sisters. Their father was absent. Their mother was bed ridden. 

   The child was to be named Alora. 

   Camila was the only one who ever tried anything with her mother. The only one who tried to help. After a few months, her mother went back to work, forcing herself to work hours. Camila would stay up, waiting for her mother to come home. She would help her get ready for bed. She would read to her mother. Burót never tried anything. As soon as Camila was thirteen, the older girl left. Leaving Camila to care for Hazel and their mother. Something she did for years.

   But it was the day she became Senator, she stopped caring for her mother. Her mother came home that night. She told Camila, for the first time, that she was who she imagined Alora to look like. Camila rarely saw her after that.

   Camila lets out a heavy sigh. She didn’t know if she could bring herself to visit her mother. Especially after everything recently. She didn’t know if she could do all that again. 

 

        She surprises herself several days later, when she does decide to pay her ill mother a visit.

   Her posh speeder pulls up next to her old family home and she gets out. 

   “Wait here.” She orders her guards and walks towards the house.

   She knocks on the door with a heavy sigh. Her mother’s friend, Eliza, answers the door.

   “Senator.” The woman curtsies before letting her in.

   “How is she, Eliza?” Camila asks, removing her cloak.

   “Not any better, milady.” She replies, taking Camila’s cloak and hanging it up.

   “Call me Mila, please.” 

   The woman nods, “This way, Mila.”

   Camila follows Eliza through to her mother’s room.

   Being greeted with the sight of her thin, pale mother lying on a bed with her eyes closed is a picture that Camila will never forget.

   The Senator walks further into the room, “Mother?” Her voice is quiet and comforting as she sits down in the seat beside the bed.

   Her mother’s eyes flicker open, “Alora?”

   “No, mother. It’s me. Mila.” Camila points at herself with a sad frown.

   “Oh, hello dearest.” Her mother almost groans as she shifts to look at her daughter. Camila reaches forward and gently grabs her mother’s hand.

   “How are you feeling?” 

   “Never better, dear.” Her mother’s eyes close as she coughs, her other hand resting between her breasts. 

   Camila looks at her pitifully.

   “How are my children?” She asks.

   “Burót is away. As is Hazel, mother.” Camila informs.

   “Oh. And why are you here?”

   “To visit you, mother. To check on you.”

   “I have not seen any of you in many years.” Her mother lets out a cough, “And now you turn up. When I am ill.”

   “I’ve been busy, mother.” Camila looks at her mother painfully, not wanting to have this conversation.

   “Of course you have.”

   “Mother…”

   “No. No. Nevermind, dearest. You’re here now. That’s what matters.” Her mother takes a ragged breath.

   Camila runs a thumb over her mother’s knuckles, “I’m here now. And you’re going to get better.”

   Her mother lets out a pained chuckle, “I wouldn’t be so sure, my dear. I am dying… nothing is going to change that.”

   Camila frowns, “Mama…?”

   “You must accept–” She coughs and lets out a groan, “You must accept my fate. As I have.”

   A silence settles between them for a minute.

   “I am so sorry, mama.” Camila says.

   “There is nothing to be sorry about, my dear.” Her mother opens her eyes and looks at her, lovingly, “I am so very proud of you and your sisters. Of all you have accomplished.”

   Tears build in her eyes as Camila watches her mother. The woman lifts a frail hand to her daughter’s cheek.

   “You remind me of my Alora. You beautiful, beautiful girl.” Her mother compliments.

   “Mama, you cannot leave yet. My daughter… she has yet to meet you.”

   “Ah, yes. My darling granddaughter. Alba will be strong. Like you.”

   Camila brings her mother’s hand to her lips and presses a kiss to them.

   “Just hang on, mama.”

   Her mother just gazes at her, “Your father… is he here?”

   Camila shakes her head, “No, mama. He is away as well.”

   Her mother nods, “It’s just you and I then.” 

   “Just you and I, mama…” Camila smiles softly at her mother as the woman’s eyes flicker shut.

   Camila watches her, tears trickling down her face. Her mother’s chest rises and falls slower and slower. 

   “You can be with her now, mama. Alora will welcome you with open arms.” Camila whispers, soothingly, to her as she strokes her mother’s hair with one hand and grips her hand with her other, “She loves you. Hazel loves you. Burót loves you. We all love you, mama.”

   Her mother’s breathing comes to a stop and Camila lets out a ragged breath.

   “I love you, mama. I’m so sorry.”

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Alexa play 'How do I say goodbye by Dean Lewis'

Okay, that was depressing. It switched from happy to sad like whiplash, I don't know what I was thinking when I was writing this.
Anyways, from the top.

Camila is so done with politics at this point.
But we finally get to meet Queen Elvira. I love er so much. She kind of like a combo of Padme when she was Queen and Queen Charlotte from Bridgerton. Camila and Elvira's relationship is inspired by Queen Charlotte and Lady Danbury's relationship in Bridgerton and the scene I wrote of them together in the garden was inspired by the scene in Bridgerton season two when Lady Danbury brings the Sharmas to the palace. It's very funny. I'm loving Bridgerton at the moment if you couldn't tell and recently rewatched it all as i wait for part 2 of season 3.

And then the tidal wave of emotion. We get a little background where I mention young Alora, the little girl who was born unbreathing. That makes when Mila's mum calls her Alora even more upsetting. So sorry about that.
But yeah. Her mother is dead. It's actually very sad and I did cry a bit while writing that scene.

And that's all for this chapter. It's a little short but I had to get on out as I haven't posted in nearly a month. That's so bad of me! I am so sorry!
Hope you all enjoyed :)))

Chapter 8: measurements

Summary:

the bad batch come to naravi iv...

Notes:

double update 'cause I felt bad :))

 

 

ubi magnus dolor, ibi magnus amor  —  where there is deep grief there was great love

 

       Camila plans the funeral herself. She didn’t want to put that burden on anyone else.

   A few days before the funeral, she reaches out to her sisters. Burót is hard to get a hold off but Camila manages after a calling in a couple favours. Her older sister receives the message and agrees to attend the funeral.

   Weirdly enough, Camila found it hard to bring herself to tell Hazel. It wasn’t until she’d finally explained everything to Alba, did she call her younger sister.

   It’s almost midnight when Camila calls. She’s sitting on her bed, a fluffy robe over her silk pyjamas. As she waits, her eyes flicker over to the picture of her and Rex. It has been a month since she last saw him. The tiny bit of a hope that she has for his return is quickly dwindling and she can tell that Alba’s is doing the same. The young girl frequently asks for her father and Camila’s reply is always the same. She does not know.

   “Mila?” 

   Camila looks back at the device in front of her, the live holo of Hazel is there.

   “Hazel, hey. How are you?” Camila forces a smile.

   “Yeah, I'm alright. How are you?” Hazel replies, “Why are you calling?”

   Camila sighs, her smile dropping.

   “Hazel…” She begins.

   Hazel frowns, “What? What has happened?”

   “Mother… she… erm…” Camila sniffs slightly before putting on a brave face, “She fell ill and has passed away.”

   Hazel’s face drops, “What?” She whispers.

   “I’m sorry, Haze. The funeral is in a few days, should you wish to attend. Burót said she’s coming. It’ll be a private affair.” Camila’s voice is quiet as she fiddles with one of her dark curls.

   Hazel nods, “I’ll be there.”

   They talk a bit longer before Hazel ends the call, leaving Camila alone to her thoughts. 

   The next day, Camila is walking through the palace gardens when one of the guards appears. Out of the corner of her eye, Camila watches him go to her Captain’s second in command, Lieutenant Hazeen, who had agreed to accompany her on her walk.

   The Lieutenant nods at the guard and then turns to her, “Your sister has arrived milady.”

   Camila gives him a small smile, “Which one?”

   He replicates her smile, although his is more comforting, “Miss Hazel, Senator.” 

   Camila nods. She looks back at the red roses in front of her for a second.

   “Let us greet her, then.” 

 

      The Lieutenant takes her back to her quarters, “She didn’t come alone, though, Senator.” he informs her as they walk.

   “I wouldn’t expect her to.” Camila replies.

   They enter her living room and are greeted with the sight of Clone Force 99. 

   “Well, this is a sight.” Camila says, as they all turn to greet her.

   “Mila.” Hazel steps forward and pulls her sister into a hug, “How are you holding up?”

   “I’ve been better.” She says as they pull apart.

   Sergeant Hunter and his girlfriend, Captain Lenaira Roza, step forward.

   “We’re sorry for your loss, Senator.” Hunter says and Lena pulls her friend into a hug.

   “Thank you, Sergeant.” She says as she and Lena separate. 

   Next, the squad’s medic comes over and presses a soft kiss to the Senator’s cheek. Camila gives Astoria a kind smile. Echo then appears in front of her and he hugs her as well.

   “I’m sorry for your loss, Senator.” He whispers.

   “Thank you, Echo.” She replies, “And you know to call me Mila.”

   He pulls away from her and gives a small smile.

   “Apologies, Mila.” He jokes and she smiles slightly. 

   The other two, Tech and Wrecker, both nod at her, in which she returns. Her gaze flickers to Hazel, “No Kaya?” She questions.

   “She’s busy.” Hazel replies, slightly strained. Camila nods, not wanting to start an uncomfortable conversation. She then looks at the small girl between Hunter and Lena.

   “You must be Omega.” Camila says. The blonde nods and steps forward.

   “I’m sorry about your mother, Senator.” Omega says. 

   Camila gives her a soft smile, “Thank you, Omega.”

   The front door reopens and Alba enters with Nanij.

   “Auntie Hazel.” She cries, running towards her aunt. Hazel crouches to meet her, hugging her niece tightly.

   “Oh, you’ve gotten so big, Alba.” Hazel says, grinning at the younger girl.

   “I’m almost five, Auntie, five!” She holds five fingers up as she grins back at her aunt.

   “Already?! Oh no! I feel very old!” Alba laughs and hugs her aunt again.

   “I’ve missed you, auntie.” 

   “I’ve missed you too, Bear.” 

   Alba then pulls away from her aunt and looks at the rest of the group.

   “Auntie Lena!” She smiles at the ex-republic Captain. Lena crouches beside Hazel and hugs the little girl.

   “Hello, Alba. It’s been a while.” Lena greets.

   Camila watches them with a gentle smile. Her daughter then goes back to her mother and hugs her leg, her aunts standing up again.

   “Alba. These are your dad’s brothers.” Camila introduces, gesturing at the boys, “Hunter, Tech, Wrecker and Echo.” 

   “Nice to meet you.” She says, shyly.

   “This is Tori.” Hazel points at the squad’s medic and the woman gives the little girl a kind smile.

   “Hello.” Alba greets. She then looks at the girl behind Lena. Omega peers at the younger girl and Alba’s grip on her mother’s leg loosens slightly.

   Camila crouches beside her daughter, her dark skirts billowing around slightly. She takes her daughter’s hands in her own, “Alba, this is Omega.”

   Lena brings Omega to stand in front of the young girl.

   “Hello.” Omega greets.

   “She’s the same age as Asziya.” Camila tells her.

   “I’m Alba.” Alba says, shyly.

   “Nice to meet you, Alba.”

   “Do you want to see my collection?” Alba asks. Camila smiles at them.

   “What kind of collection?” Omega questions, curiously.

   “Come see.”

   Omega looks up at Lena for approval. When the Captain nods, she follows Alba to the young girl’s bedroom.

   “Well, that was cute.” Hazel says. Camila nods in agreement. She then looks at her sister before turning back to the lieutenant. 

   “Please have rooms set up for them. And call for the tailor and the modiste.” She orders.

   “Of course, Senator.” He replies and gestures to the other guards.

   “Come, sister, we must get you fitted for some dresses.” Camila says and Hazel groans.

   “I am here for the funeral, not a party.” She protests.

   “And the Queen wishes for an audience, unsurprisingly. So I hope you haven’t forgotten everything I've taught you.” Camila links her arm with Hazel’s as the younger woman groans again. 

   Lena chuckles, “Once again, you’ll have to embrace your femininity, Hazel.”

   “How awful.” Astoria adds. They all chuckle.

   Hazel frowns at the boys, “I’d like to see all of you in dresses.”

   “They’ll be fitted with suits.” Camila says.

   “Oh, how formal.” She sasses, a smile appearing on both her and her sister’s face.

   They fall quiet for a second before Echo speaks up.

   “Is Rex here?” He asks.

   Camila’s smile droops as she looks at him, “He’s been away for a month. You haven’t heard from him?”

   Echo looks at Tech, who shakes his head. Camila nods, pursing her lips.

   “Where is this modiste then? I want to get it over and done with.” Hazel asks, breaking the awkward silence.

   Camila looks at her with a small smile.

   “I’m sure she’ll be here by the time you change out of this.” The Senator gestures at her sister’s armour. Hazel nods in annoyance.

   “Very well, let's go then.”

   Conversation resumes as the girls head towards Camila’s room and Camila’s lieutenant leads the boys to their rooms.

   They remain occupied as the girls strip from their armour and dress into civvies, the boys doing the same in their own rooms.

   Soon, the modiste and the tailor arrive and the girls move into the living room. The boys soon join them as Hazel stands on the pedestal, the modiste pinning the waist of the black dress she’s to wear to the funeral.

   “You’ve gotten thinner, Miss Hazel.” The modiste says.

   “Thank you.” Hazel replies sarcastically, rolling her eyes.

   “It’s all those bloody rations.” Lena says as she and Hunter flick through fabrics to find one that won’t irritate his skin, due to his enhanced senses.

   “You shall eat properly while you’re here,” Camila orders, “All of you.”

   They smile at her as she looks at flower arrangements a group of servants have brought in.

   “Good. I’ve missed real food!” Wrecker grins as she smiles at him.

   Hazel gets down from the pedestal and disappears into her sister’s office inorder to change into the dress she’s to wear to meet the Queen.

   Camila walks over to Tech and asks quietly, “How has she been?” 

   He blinks at her, “Quite well, I believe.”

   Camila nods, looking towards the door her sister disappeared through.

   “How about you, Senator?” The goggled clone asks.

   “Call me Mila, please.” She corrects, “I’ve been better, though. Thank you.”

   Tech nods before returning his eyes to his datapad. Camila glances back at the door before walking over to Echo. He gives her a warm smile when she joins him before glancing at the tailor, nervously.

   “How have you been, Echo?” Camila asks, trying to think of ways to reassure him. She knows he probably isn’t comfortable having a stranger measure him after what he faced on Skako Minor.

   “Alright. It’s been tough while on the run. How about you?” Echo replies.

   “Alright.” He grins at her as she smirks. 

   She watches him return his gaze to the tailor, “Would you like someone else to do it?” She asks him.

   “Pardon?” He looks at her, slightly confused, slightly guilty.

   “Your measurements, Echo. Would you like one of your squad to do it? Would that be more comfortable for you?” She asks, a reassuring smile gracing her lips.

   He hesitates, “I don’t wish to be a pain.” 

   Camila chuckles, “Do not worry about that, Echo. You are far from a pain. I only wish for you to be comfortable and I'm sure your squad would agree with me.”

   He looks at her unsure and she places a comforting hand on his arm, “Come. I’m sure Tori will be happy to do it.”

   He follows her, albeit reluctantly, as she walks over to the medic. Camila grabs a tape measure as she does so.

   “Tori.” Camila says.

   The medic looks up with a smile, “Camila, Echo. Can I help you?”

   “Yes, please.” Camila nods, “Can you take Echo’s measurements for him?”

   Astoria nods, not even asking why, “As long as you tell me what to do, Camila.”

   “Please call me Mila.” She says, handing the tape to the blonde.

   Astoria takes it and begins following Camila’s instructions, gently but quickly taking Echo’s measurements.

   After a while, everything is packed away and the modiste and the tailor promise to return the next day with suits and dresses. Not long after, they all have dinner in the large dining room and then move back to the living room.

   Camila returns from saying goodnight to Alba and joins the squad on the sofas and chairs. Omega had also gone to bed so it was only the adults. They all talk about many different things, relationships, Rex and the funeral not topics of conversation at all.

   A couple hours later, Wrecker and Astoria, and Hunter and Lena leave for bed. The remaining four resume their conversations.

   “I don’t understand why the Queen wishes to see me, sister.” Hazel says, causing Camila to roll her eyes.

   “She’s our cousin, Hazel.” Camila deadpans.

   “The Queen is your cousin?” Echo asks.

   “Unfortunately,” Hazel replies. Camila kicks her shin and shoots her a glare.

   “My apologies.” Hazel sasses, rubbing her shin. Camila shakes her head and returns to the topic of conversation.

   “She wishes to see how you are holding up, Hazel. It’s been many years since she last saw you. And especially since mother…” Camila trails off and Hazel shifts in her seat.

   “Perhaps we should go to bed.” Tech proposes and Hazel nods at him. They bid Echo and Camila good night before disappearing.

   “How come you never told me the Queen was your cousin?” Echo asks her.

   “It never came up in conversation.” She replies and he rolls his eyes at her.

   A comfortable silence falls between them.

   “When was the last time you spoke to him?” Camila asks, quietly.

   Echo lets out a small sigh, “A few weeks ago. I know he’s been running missions, I'm just not sure when and where.”

   Camila hums and nods.

   “Do you not talk to him?” Echo questions.

   She looks at him incredulously and he chuckles.

   “Still not on good terms then.”

   “What did you expect? He shows up, out of the blue, after four years. Four years where I raised our daughter on my own. Four years where I had no idea where he was or why he was ignoring me.” Camila sighs and slumps in her chair.

   “I thought he died during Order 66. At least that’s what the reports said.” She adds.

   Echo looks down at her, pitifully, “How long is it going to take for you to trust him again?”

   She lets out a short, dry laugh, “Funny. He asked me the same thing.”

   Echo raises an eyebrow, awaiting an answer.

   “I told him that he has to prove himself multiple times and then I will think about it.” She informs him. He then lets out his own dry laugh.

   “You’ll think about it?” He asks, disbelievingly.

   “Yes.” She confirms.

   He rolls his eyes and shakes his head, “You two are ridiculous.”

   Camila scoffs, “You’re one to talk. Don’t think I don’t know about all what’s going on between you and Kaya.”

   Echo rolls his eyes again, “This conversation isn’t about Kaya and I, it’s about you and Rex.”

   She groans and rests her head against the back of the couch.

   “Do you have his comm channel?” Echo asks.

   “I have the one he used during the war. I’m very much sure he does not still use it.” Camila retorts, “And even if he did, I wouldn’t message him or call him.”

   “You need to talk to him, Mila. Does he even know your mother died?” Echo tells her and Camila shakes her head, “Mila! You’re really not helping yourself!”

   “Echo, c’mon. I am helping myself by not talking to him. He can come back if he wants but it’ll be only for Alba’s sake. I’ve made it very clear I don’t trust him and by not talking to him, I’m allowing myself not to get hurt by him again!” Camila says, sitting up to face him properly.

   Echo sighs and crosses his arms, “You’re insufferable, you know that. You’re never going to sort anything out if you don’t talk to him!”

   “That’s very hypocritical of you, Corporal.” Camila shoots back, crossing her arms as well.

   Echo’s shoulders slump. Camila sighs as they both uncross their arms.

   “Echo. I’m not going to talk to him, nor trust him, anytime soon. If he wishes to return then he may, but that’s up to him. I can only hope his daughter is motivation enough for him to do so.” She tells him, quietly.

   “I understand. Sorry.” He apologies and she gives him a reassuring smile.

   Camila then leans back into the sofa and re-crosses her arms, “So are you going to tell me about what’s going on between you and Kaya, or what?”

 

 

Notes:

TBB ARE BACK!!!!!!!!!!

this is set a couple weeks before Hunter gets captured fyi!!
but they're here and so is their banter. I love the sister banter between Camila and Hazel, it's hilarious, and once again Rex is an awkward topic of conversation. Him and Camila are just so angsty it's so funny and annoying at the same time.
and Omega and Alba are besties already. Omega will be featuring in Aba's book ( when I write that ) for those interested. It's going to be called Long Live, I think, but it's not even been planned yet as I'm focusing a lot on the clone wars to tbb at the moment.

also, Mila being Mila and making sure Echo is comfortable ( and that everyone calls her Mila because she hates formalities ). Her and Echo's friendship is one of my favorites. There little conversation at the end is so sweet and funny. Echo just wants Rex and Mila back together all ready.
And of course we're al missing Kaya. I've been really struggling for ideas in her book at the moment but if you want to get to know her a little bit see my tbb s3 fix-it ( that i started before the season began ) as I think she has been introduced into that..
and please check out my crosshair fic, which is also apart of the series, as it needs some love and I need more motivation to finish off act one as I want to get onto planning tbb s1 so we can see Crosshair a bit as it's all focused on Jayana ( i love her dw ).

Hope everyone's having a good day/night and hope y'all liked this double update!!
ly <3

Chapter 9: the funeral

Summary:

Hazel and Camila visit the Queen and a new arrival causes tensions to rise...

 

 

tu numquam scis quam fortis sis , donec esses fortis , nisi electionis tuae  —  you never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have

 

 

       The modiste and the tailor kept the word and returned the next day with dresses and suits. After a couple adjustments, they left again and all the clothing was sorted for the group. Camila spent most of the next day, and the day after, finishing the last preparations for the funeral. Flower arrangements, the casket, food, music, eulogy, everything had to be organised to perfection and Camila made sure of it.

   She didn’t see much of the others but she knew Hazel had taken them out into the city, letting them look at the market and visit the shops. She also knew that Alba had gone with them as it was a weekend and she didn’t have school.

   For now, though, Hazel accompanies her as they walk to meet the Queen.

   “Stop fiddling with your dress. You look fine.” Camila chastises.

   “I look amazing, what are you talking about?” Hazel replies, “It’s this bloody bodice, it doesn’t feel right.”

   “That’s because it is a corset.” Camila tells her.

   Hazel looks at her incredulously, “You’re kidding? That’s why it’s so uncomfortable. I don’t know how you put up with this everyday, sister.”

   “That would be because I don’t wear a corset everyday.” Camila replies as they come to a halt outside the Queen’s Audience Room, “I’m not even wearing one now.”

   The doors open and the Senator steps forward. Hazel glares at her sister before quickly moving to join her.

   “Traitor.” She mutters and Camila smirks slightly.

   They stop a few metres away from the throne and drop into a curtsey, Hazel wobbling slightly as she does so.

   They rise slowly, Hazel’s unsure eyes darting between the Queen and her ladies-in-waiting. Camila resists the urge to chastise her.

   “Your majesty.” Camila greets.

   Queen Elvira smiles at the two.

   “Miss Ri’vane, it’s a pleasure to see you among us once again.” She says, “Although I wish it were under better circumstances.”

   “As do I, your majesty.” Hazel replies, her voice breaking slightly.

   “After the Clone War ended, I was expecting you to grace us with your presence. It has been almost a year and only now do you return.” The Queen says.

   Camila clenches her jaw and glances at her sister. Hazel’s face is calm and a small smile is on her lips, her brown eyes locked onto Queen Elvira.

   “Forgive me, your majesty. It’s been a tough few months.” Hazel apologises.

   Queen Elvira hums, “Well, you’re here now.”

   “Yes. But I must leave again after the funeral. My duty resides elsewhere as of late.” Hazel informs her.

   The Queen raises an eyebrow and her ladies-in-waiting share glances of uncertainty. Camila’s eyelids flicker shut for a second before she looks at her sister then the Queen.

   “I see.” The Queen watches her cousin with slight disapproval, “We shall enjoy your presence while it lasts then.”

   Hazel bows her head as the Queen looks at the Senator beside her.

   “How are the funeral preparations coming along?”

   “Exceptionally, your majesty. Everything will be perfect for tomorrow. I've made sure of it.” Camila reassures, although she was sure she was the one that needs the reassurance.

   “I’m sure it will be.” Queen Elvira gives her a comforting smile.

 

       A few minutes later, the Ri’vane sisters are making their way back to the Senatorial quarters.

   “You can’t be so bold and blunt when talking to the Queen, Hazel.” Camila remarks, sending her sister a disapproving look.

   Hazel rolls her eyes, “She’s our cousin, Mila. I’m sure she understands.”

   “If she asks to see you again, you’ll go on your own.” Camila retorts as they enter the living room.

   “Alright, don’t be dramatic.” Hazel replies with a snort. Camila rolls her eyes but can’t help a small smile appear.

   “I’ll be nice next time.”

   “When you’re on your own?” Camila asks with a smirk.

   “You’ll come with me, going there’s punishment enough. I’d rather not go on my own if that’s alright.” Hazel dumps herself onto her sister’s sofa, stealing a piece of chocolate from the plate in Wrecker’s hands.

   “It went well then?” Lena asks, from where she’s sat beside Hunter on the opposite couch.

   “Hazel let her mouth get the better of her.” Camila teases.

   Her sister huffs, “It wasn’t that bad.”

   “I’m sure it wasn’t.” Echo says with a smirk. Hazel throws a piece of chocolate at him, which he catches in her mouth.

   “Woah! Nice one, Echo!” Wrecker cheers as they all laugh. Hazel scoffs but grins anyway.

   “Mama!” Alba runs into the room, followed by Omega.

   “Hey, Alla.” Camila greets, picking her up and leaning her against her waist, “What have you been doing today then?”

   “I was showing Omega how to curtsy.” Alba tells her. Camila raises her eyebrows in slight surprise. 

   “Let's see then.” Lena requests, looking at the pre-teen.

   Omega blushes before dropping into a small curtsy. They all clap and her blush deepens.

   “Very good, Omega. I’m sure the Queen will love you.” Camila compliments, “Now, if you will excuse me, I must change.”

   She places Alba back on the ground with a small kiss to the girl’s head, and then walks towards her bedroom, Inej joining her soon after.

   Camila changes out of her navy gown and into a black, flowy dress. The skirt flows around her ankles with it pulled tight around the waist. The v-neck line stops just above her breasts, showing a little cleavage. The sleeves are long and tight fitting. The seams are white and piped and her brunette curls have been pulled into a large, complicated bun. A jewelled, silver headpiece is pushed into the top of it, with matching earrings dangling from her earlobes.

   As she secures matching bangles around her wrists, her eyes lock onto the veil she’s to wear to the funeral.

   “Must I wear the veil? I’ll look like a bloody wife in mourning, not a daughter.” Camila complains. 

   Inej chuckles as she helps her step into the plain, black heels, “I’m sure if you do not want to, then you shall not have to, milady. I believe it just comes with the dress.”

   Camila nods, looking at it in disgust, “I don’t plan on crying so I won’t need it.”

   She turns away from the veil and to her handmaiden. Inej wears a black dress that’s secured tightly below her breasts and flows straight down to her ankles. A white collar is attached around the top and her strawberry blond hair has been pulled into a plaited bun.

   “Are you accompanying me to the funeral?” Camila asks her.

   “If you would like me too, milady.” Inej replies with a comforting smile.

   Camila nods and Inej curtsies.

   “Then, yes I will.”

   “Thank you.” Camila grips Inej’s hands and they both smile gently at each other.

   Camila then turns around, and together they walk out of her bedroom.

   When they re-enter the living room, they see Hazel standing in front of a tall blonde woman, dressed all in black, a bag on the floor beside her.

   “You shouldn’t be here!” Hazel is saying.

   “I was invited. She was my mother too, Hazel.” The woman says.

   “Burót! You’re here.” Camila greets the woman, semi-cheerfully.

   “Camila—!” The woman starts

   “She’s your senator.” Hazel interrupts.

   “Hazel, please.” Burót looks at her younger sister, desperately.

   “Hazel.” Camila says quietly, placing a hand on her shoulder, “Stand down.” 

   Hazel sends Camila a sad look before nodding and going over to Tech. Camila turns back to her older sister, an almost blank look on her face.

   “I’m glad you could make it.” She tells her.

   “Cami—“

   “I’ll have a room prepared for you. I assume you’re not going to be here long.” Camila continues, ignoring the attempt at an interruption.

   Burót opens her mouth, but then closes it and nods. Camila nods at her in approval before gesturing at one of her guards.

   “Have her stuff taking to a spare room.” She orders.

   “There are no more guest rooms free in this area of your wing, milady.” The guard says.

   “Put her in the closest one you can find then.”

   “Yes, Senator. This way, ma’am.” The guard beckons for Burót to follow. 

   The woman gives Camila a sad and desperate look before following the guard out of the living room, bringing her bag with her.

   Camila sighs heavily and spins around to face the others.

   “Why did you invite her, Mila?” Hazel asks, “She abandoned us.”

   “She’s our sister, Hazel. And it’s her mother too.” Camila replies, a tired expression on her face, “She raised us for seven years after mother lost…”

   Camila shakes her head and walks over to the sofas, sitting down beside Echo. 

   Hazel shakes her head, “I’m going to go change.” 

   She walks to the room she’s sharing with Tech and disappears inside. Camila looks up at Echo and he gives her a sympathetic smile. Tech then gets up and follows after his girlfriend, the others resuming conversation in order to break the awkwardness.

   “Mama.” Alba walks over to Camila and leans against her mother’s legs, “Who was that?”

   Camila dregs up a smile and leans forward.

   “That was your aunt, Burót. Auntie Hazel and I haven’t seen her in ten years but she’s here for your grandmother’s funeral.” Camila tells her.

   “Does Auntie Hazel not like her?” Alba asks.

   Camila gently picks Alba up under her armpits and places her on her lap, “Auntie Hazel wasn’t that close with Burót when we were children, and when I was Omega’s age,” She gestures at the blonde who’s sat beside Echo, “Burót moved away, leaving me and Auntie Hazel alone.”

   “But why, mama?” 

   “I don’t know why, baby. It was an adult thing.” Camila shakes her head with a small shrug.

   “Do you not like her, like Auntie Hazel?” Alba looks up at her mother with curious eyes.

   Camila sighs, “It’s complicated, Alla. I haven’t spoken to her in over ten years but your grandmother was her mother just as she was mine and Auntie Hazel’s.”

   “Why did I barely see Grandmama?” Alba questions.

   “She worked a lot for the Queen. She was very busy and I didn’t want you seeing her when she was ill.” Camila replies.

   Alba’s quiet for a moment. 

   “Okay.” She says before leaning into her mother’s chest. 

   Camila wraps her arms around her daughter and presses a kiss to the crown of her head.

   “I love you, mama.” Alba whispers.

   “I love you more, Alla.”

 

      The funeral is small and fairly quick. Camila keeps to the fact she isn’t planning on crying, and no one seems to shed a tear.

   Burót doesn’t say anything to her sister’s throughout it and they don’t say anything to her either. The Bad Batch remain towards the back of the ceremony with Tech staying with Hazel towards the front. Alba remains clutched to her mother throughout the ceremony and the Queen pays her respects as well. 

   After the funeral, the Batch go to a nearby bar with Alba and Inej, allowing the sisters to have a few minutes alone with their mother.

   Camila stands next to Burót as they look at their mother in the wooden casket. Hazel waits a few metres behind, her face stoic as she watches them.

   “I’m so sorry, mother.” Burót mutters, reaching out to gently squeeze their mother’s hand, “I’m so so sorry.”

   Camila’s eyes drift to the red rose bouquet clutched in her mother’s cold hands. Movement by Burót, thought, draws her eyes to her sister as she pulls something from her purse. It’s a traditional Naravi paint pad.

   Her eyes widen slightly as she watches Burót open the lid and swipe her thumb against the purple paint.

   “May your soul be taken care of by the Gods.” Burót says, swiping her thumb on her mother’s forehead, stopping at the bridge of her nose, and then doing the same on her own forehead. 

   A tear trickles down Burót’s cheek and Camila reaches out. She pries the pad from her older sister and swipes her thumb against it.

   “May your soul be taken care of by the Gods.” She mutters, and then copies her sister’s movements.

   Footsteps approach behind her and Hazel appears on Camila’s other side. The Senator hands the pad to her and she mimics her sisters’ actions.

   “May your soul be taken care of by the Gods.”

 

 

 

Notes:

"May your soul be taken care of by the Gods" is my new favorite line.

From the top, Hazel being Hazel! We love a confident queen. She's amazing. I love her. And her and Mila's banter is so funny to write. I love writing sibling relationships!!
And then the other sister. Burot is complicated. She left them when Camila was a young adult and she had to raise Hazel on her own, all while handling her mother and absent father. It was an intense childhood and explains a bit on why Mila is such a good mum to Alba because she doesn't want her to go through the same thing.
And Alba being innocent and understanding as always. I love her to bits!!
Then the funeral is sad but the do come together a bit for that ( and we love Tech supporting his gf ( Rex get your ass down here! ) ).

And that's about it for this chapter. I've written upto chapter fifteen and the last bit in chapter 14 had me screaming so ( GET READY Y'ALL ).

Anyways, hope everyone's having a great day/night!
Love ya <33

Chapter 10: new dress

Summary:

Alba discovers she's attending a ball and her father returns...

 

 

tantum memento quod aliqui erunt in secundo casu valet  —  just remember that some people will be worth a second chance

 

 

      Burót left the planet with only a small goodbye to her sisters after the funeral, clearly not wanting to make things worse for anyone should she stay and beg for their forgiveness.

   The Batch only stayed a couple days after before leaving as well, not wanting their boss to get any more annoyed at them then she already was.

   “She’s a bitch, that’s what she is.” Hazel had told her, “A sly, reptilian bitch.”

   “Who’s helping us hide from the Empire.” Echo had reminded.

   “Still a bitch.” Hazel had muttered again as she hugged Camila goodbye.

   Alba had seemed especially upset when saying goodbye to Omega but promises of return had lifted her spirits. She’d grown quite attached to the Batch in the few days they’d been staying.

   After they’d all gone, Camila had been bombarded with Senate meetings and trying to renovate her old family home, not wanting to sell the place she grew up in. Seeing Alba was limited down to a couple times a week and she hadn’t spoken to her sister since the funeral at all.

   Now, Camila sits in her office, scrolling through different colours of paint, trying to decide what to paint the master bedroom of her family home.

   “Perhaps a macaroon, milady?” Inej suggests. The handmaiden stands opposite her, flicking through wallpaper samples.

   “Why would someone put food on a wall, Inej?” Camila looks up with a raised eyebrow.

   Inej lets out a small laugh, “No, milady,” She holds up a plain white-like sample, “The colour of a macaroon.”

   “That’s macaroon?” Camila asks, “Don’t macaroon’s come in different colours?”

   Inej smiles and nods, “Yes, but a colour was also named after it.”

   “How strange,” She mutters, “Add it to the list.”

   Inej removes the sample from the pack and places it on the small pile with other samples in. Currently it is standing at five.

   Camila lets out a heavy sigh and puts down her datapad. She lazily crosses her arms, leaning back in her chair and staring at the shelved walls. Her eyes scan the books and ornaments absentmindedly. 

   “Are you alright, milady?” Inej asks.

   Camila nods, “I'm fine, thank you, Inej.”

   Her gaze drifts to the desk where her datapad layers and Inej flicks through hundreds of samples. She uncrosses her arms and leans forward,

   “I think I’m going to call it a day, Inej.” Camila gives Inej a small smile, getting up from her seat.

   “Would you like me to continue, milady?” She asks.

   “No, that’s quite alright. You go and rest, and I shall call you when I need you.” Camila says.

   “Of course, milady.” The handmaiden curtsies before leaving the room.

   Once she has gone, Camila slouches back into her office chair and wipes a tired hand over her face. She is exhausted. She sits there with her head in her hands for a few minutes.

   A knock on the door causes her to abruptly sit up and grab her datapad.

   “Come in.” She calls, her voice steady and calm.

   The door is pushed open a little bit and a small figure slips inside.

   “Hello, Mama.”

   It is Alba.

   Camila puts her datapad down, her shoulders relaxing as she fixes on a smile for her daughter.

   “Hello, Alla.” She replies as the little blonde girl appears at her side, “What are you up to?”

   “Checking on you, Mama.” Alba says, leaning against her mother’s legs.

   Camila picks up her daughter and places her on her lap.

   “I barely see you anymore.” She adds quietly.

   Camila sighs guiltily, “I know, baby. I’ve been busy with work.”

   “Are you busy now?”

   “No. I’m done for the day.”

   Alba looks up at her with a wide grin, her hazel eyes big and happy.

   “Then can you help me with my dress? The lady says she needs to fit me with a dress but I don’t want to do it without you, Mama.” Alba asks, rolling her eyes.

   Camila smiles down at her daughter, squinting a little.

   “Very well then.” She says, grabbing her daughter under the armpits and standing up.

   “Let’s get you sorted, little miss.” 

   Alba lets out a giggle as Camila pretends to turn her into a spaceship and ‘flies’ her to the door. Alba grabs the handle and pulls on it. Once it opens, Camila ‘flies’ out to the living room, stopping at the sofa. She begins making beeping noises, like a speeder reversing, and gently puts her daughter on the sofa.

   “There you go.” She says, ruffling Alba’s hair.

   “Mama!” Alba complains, trying to flatten the dark blonde curls.

   Camila rounds the sofa, grinning at her.

   “What?” She asks, feigning innocence.

   Alba giggles, grinning back at her mother.

   “You’re silly, Mama.” She says as Camila sits down beside her. She wraps an arm around her daughter’s shoulders and smiles.

   “Where do you think you got it from?” She asks, stroking a couple strands of hair out of her daughter’s face.

   Alba scrunches up her nose, still grinning.

   Lieutenant Hazeen then walks over to them, two short, togruta women behind him.

   “The modiste, milady.” he introduces and then walks away.

   The two women curtsy and then get to work. One begins setting up the pedestal, while the other pulls out a small gown-like dress, with ruffles and a wide skirt.

   “Please put this on, Miss Alba.” She holds out the dress and Camila takes it from her.

   “Come on then.” She places a gentle hand on Alba’s back and guides her to the little girl’s bedroom. Alba runs ahead as Camila follows at a steady pace.

   Camila walks into the room and smiles.

   It is a small bedroom, the walls painted a pale blue with her bed covers matching the walls. The bed is pushed into the far corner, Balba, the tooka doll, resting against the pillows.

   The white curtains are opened wide, sunlight streaming in. Against one of the walls is a tall bookcase with loads of children’s books. On the opposite wall is a large wardrobe. The floor is carpeted but a white rug with sea animals sits in the middle of the room. In the corner by the door, a desk sits, scattered with many objects; ship parts, school projects, even a couple sniper lenses. More of these are in a box beside the desk. Alba’s collection. 

   Alba stops in the middle of the room and begins to undo the ribbons of the dress she currently wears. Camila puts the new dress on the chair next to the desk and then walks over to Alba and helps her out of the one she’s wearing.

   “Why am I being fitted with a new dress, Mama? It looks too pretty to play in.” Alba asks as she steps out of her dress.

   “The Queen is hosting a season ball tomorrow evening and she has invited us, of course. It’s your first time out in society so we’ll have to go over a few rules and other things.” Camila tells her as she picks up Alba’s new dress and helps her get into it.

   “A ball?! Will there be dancing? And food?!” Alba seems to bounce in excitement, causing Camila to laugh.

   “Settle down, Alla. And yes, there will be.” 

   The little girl claps her hands with a squeal as her mother ties the ribbon at the small of her back.

   “All done, then.” She ruffles Alba’s hair and the dark blonde runs out the room.

   “Careful with the new dress, Alla!” Camila calls as she follows after her, shaking her head with a small smile.

   Alba’s already on the stool when Camila enters the living room, the modiste pinning bits of the dress that were too big. 

   “We’ll need to extend the straps a centimetre.” The togruta woman tells her assistant. 

   Camila adjusts the light purple sleeves of her own dress and walks over to the couch. She approaches Alba and gets a little bit of the girl’s hair, putting it in her daughter’s face jokingly. She giggles and bats away her hand.

   “Stop it, Mama.” 

   Camila walks around her and sends her daughter a cheeky smile before sitting down on the coach opposite. Alba watches her as the modiste pins the back of the dress together. She grins at her mother when Camila makes a weird face.

   The modiste steps away and rounds Alba, the young girl’s gaze switching to the togruta.

   “There’s a few adjustments to make,” She tells the Senator, “But they should be done by tomorrow. I’ll bring it back around midday.” 

   Camila gets up from her seat, smiling at the older woman, 

   “Sounds great. Thank you.”

   “Your dress is in that box there, milady. I have adjusted it all, so it should fit. You can try it on now if you would like me to double check.”

   “That’s brilliant. I trust you and i’ll put it on tomorrow when you come round.” 

   The modiste nods, a small smile gracing her lips.

   The front door opens and Alba lets out a squeal.

   “Daddy!” 

   Camila turns to the door and sees a rather exhausted Rex walk in. He’s got his brown cloak over his armour and he manages to put down his bag before Alba throws herself at him.

   “Alla! The dress!” Camila scolds, sending the modiste an apologetic look.

   Her daughter steps away from the clone Captain, a not very guilty look in her face.

   “You look very pretty, Alba.” Rex compliments.

   “It’s for the ball tomorrow, Daddy. I get to dance!” Alba says, jumping up and down slightly.

   She then winces as one of the pins dig into her skin.

   “Perhaps you should change out of that dress before those pins make you bleed.” Camila suggests as she walks over to the two.

   “Fine.” Alba complains before running to her bedroom.

   “She’s definitely going to hurt herself.” Camila says, shaking her head.

   “Undoubtedly.” Rex agrees.

   “I’m surprised you came back.” Camila says, crossing her arms.

   Rex shrugs.

   “Didn’t want to let you down.” He replies, causing her to hum.

   “What’s this about a ball?” He asks as he picks up his bag.

   “The Queen is throwing a season ball tomorrow. We’re invited to it and Alba is very excited.” She informs him as they walk further into the living room.

   “Sounds fun.” He remarks.

   “Not overly,” She chuckles slightly, “But I want to be fun for Alba. It’s her first ball.”

   “Ah.”

   She watches him for a second, debating over what to say next. He glances at her and she looks away. He then places his bag beside her sofa just as Alba comes out with the dress.

   “Those pins are rude. You need to put them in a timeout.” She tells the modiste as she hands it to her.

   Camila’s eyebrows raise as Rex stifles a laugh. The modiste shoots them a look of concern and they both shrug, trying not to laugh.  

   The modiste’s assistant had since packed everything up so all the modiste has to do is put the dress away. She does so and they both curtsy to Camila before leaving the room.

   Rex let’s out a snort and Camila places a hand over her mouth, trying to stop herself from laughing. Alba looks at them with a frown.

   “What’s so funny?” She asks.

   Rex shakes his head, “Nothing, Alba.”

   Camila’s eyes twinkle slightly as she grins at her daughter.

   “Those pins need a timeout, do they?” She asks, still refusing to laugh.

   Alba nods, “They kept pricking me.” she complains, her face twisted in disgust.

   “That’s very mean of them.” Camila says, shaking her head in disapproval.

   Rex nods in agreement.

   “Very mean.” He echos.

   The parents then share a look of amusement as Alba runs over to Rex. She grabs his hand and pulls him over to the sofa.

   “It’s been ages, Daddy!” She says, sighing dramatically.

   “I’ve been very busy, ad’ika.” He tells her, “A lot of people need my help.”

   Alba watches him for a second before speaking again, “You missed the funeral.”

   Camila’s eyes widen slightly as she shakes her head at her daughter.

   “Yeah, I'm sorry about that.” Rex says, glancing back at Camila with a sorrowful expression, “Echo told me about your grandmother.”

   Camila rolls her eyes. Of course he did. She then walks forward and sits on the couch opposite them.

   “Have you heard from him?” She asks.

   He looks at her before looking down at the ground with a small sigh.

   “What’s happened?” She questions, a frown appearing on her face.

   “You know what, Alba?” Rex begins, causing Camila to close her eyes and rub her forehead, already feeling a headache coming on.

   “It’s getting quite late and i’m very tired. So why don’t you get ready for bed and i’ll come say goodnight in a minute.” He says, a small smile on his face.

   Alba nods and jumps up, just as Nanij comes into the room. Already noticing the little girl, the handmaiden sends Rex a smile before following after her.

   “Mila…” Rex begins, quietly. He gets up from his seat and moves to sit beside her. She drops her hand from her face and opens her eyes.

   “What happened?” She asks, her voice quiet and cautious.

   “They were running a mission for me, to save a clone. Gregor.”

   “Did something happen to Gregor?” Camila looks at him with wide eyes.

   Rex shakes his head, “Gregor’s fine. He’s safe. But something went wrong and…” He takes a deep breath before continuing, “…and Hunter and Hazel were captured. The Batch has gone after them, of course.”

   Camila’s breathing quickens as her eyes widen. Hunter and Hazel. Hunter and Hazel!  

   “They’re going to be okay,” He places a gentle hand on her shoulder, “They’re going to get them back, Mila.”

   “You don’t know that.” She says quietly, “You should never have sent them out there.”

   “I know, but you have to trust them.” He replies.

   “She could be hurt, Rex. Or worse!” Camila gets to her feet, a hand pressed against her forehead as she begins to pace slightly.

   “Mila! She’s going to be ok. I trust the squad, and you should too!” He reassures her.

   “Don’t lecture me about trust, Rex!” She points her finger at him, small tears welling in her eye, “I can’t lose her! I can’t!”

   He stands slowly and walks over to her.

   “You’re not going to lose her, Mila.” He tells her firmly.

   “You don’t know that.” She mutters. He reaches out and gently grabs her shoulders, stopping her pacing.

   “Mila, look at me.” He orders and she does so, reluctantly, “You’re not going to lose her.”

   Her eyes dart between his, searching for any ounce of a lie. Upon finding nothing, she sighs, her shoulders relaxing under his grip.

   “She’s going to be ok.” Rex says, “They’re all going to be ok.”

   She watches him for a second and then nods. He nods at her, a determined, and slightly sympathetic, look on his face.

   Camila realises how close they are and quickly steps away from him, his hands falling from her shoulders. She slightly regrets moving when he lets her go, the loss of warmth of him near her causing a dull ache to appear in her chest.

   He continues to watch her and Camila makes herself look away, not wanting to make eye contact.

   “We should say good night to Alba.” She says, breaking the silence.

   He nods, still watching her. With a sigh, she forces herself to turn away from him and walk to her daughter’s room. His footsteps follow her and Camila fights against herself to not turn around.

   She reaches Alba’s room and opens the door, walking inside with Rex just behind her.

 

 

 

Notes:

Well that took a turn. ( DOUBLE CHAPTER FOR YOU ALL BTW )

Starting off, Hazel hating on Cid is my favorite thing ever.
And also Mila having no idea about pain colours is just so her. Then Alba and Mila!! There relationship is the cutest. I love her as a mother. Especially when it's just the two of them and Mila can really be herself around her daughter. It's so cute!!

And then REX IS BACK!! Screams and cries. Mila being petty is hilarious, i'm sorry. she's such a mood. and then Alba and the pins. Rex and Mila are so unserious. I loved that scene.

Finally, Mila finds out about Hunter and Hazel. I decided to have Hazel kidnapped as well to have more ANGST!! It's insane. And then Rex trying to comfort her as she still doesn't trust him!! AHHHH!!!
It's going to be a long one, guys. It's quite a bit of slow burn and I hate myself for it, don't worry.

Hope you enjoyed the double update.
Love you all :))

Chapter 11: beautiful

Summary:

Rex is invited to the ball and the girls try on their dresses…

 

 

maybe omnes necessitates est alter casu probare seipsum  —   maybe all one needs is a second chance to prove one’s self

 

 

         Later on, when they’ve said good night to Alba, Rex and Camila sit together in the living room. In an attempt to save herself from the thoughts of Hazel being captured by the Empire, she is telling Rex all about her and Riyo’s effort to give clones their rights and not let them be shut down like droids.

   “We’ve attempted things like this in the past, of course,” Camila is saying, “But there’s talk of a new generation of troopers called TK troopers that are supposed to be replacing the clones and we don’t want them to be simply disposed of.”

   Rex watches her explain everything to him, a small smile on his face. She sounds so passionate about it.

   “All we need is some kind of evidence to prove that clones shouldn’t be shut down but the chips in their heads are kind of annoying. We can’t really get a hold of one but we also can’t just present it to the Senate and expect them to shut the Empire down.” Camila frowns as she thinks about her cause, “We just need to get it in their heads that clones have thoughts and feelings and that they deserve a good life. Not whatever the fuck this stupid Empire is giving them.”

   Rex’s eyebrows shoot up, not entirely used to Camila swearing.

   “Oh don’t look like that, Rex.” Camila says, reddening slightly.

   “I’ve never heard you curse before.” He tells her.

   “That’s because you weren’t around when I was pregnant.” 

   Rex sighs and looks down, the amused smile disappearing. Camila glances at him guiltily.

   “I’m sorry.” She mutters. 

   He shakes his head and gives her a small smile,

   “You shouldn’t be sorry. I left.”

   She copies his smile, “And I probably could’ve tried harder.” 

   He chuckles quietly. They watch each other for a second before Camila lets out a heavy sigh and looks down at the ground.

   “How long are you going to be here for then?” She asks him.

   He shrugs, “Until someone else needs me.”

   “What sort of someone?” She raises an eyebrow, smirking slightly.

   “Clones. Clones whose chips have stopped working and they want to defect.” He tells her and she nods, her smirk disappearing.

   “I wish there was more I could do.”

   “Working to give clones and people their freedom is far from what I'm doing.” He says with a small frown.

   “Yes but there's more I could do, Rex.” She replies, her brow creasing.

   “You’re doing enough, Mila.”

   They stare at each other before Camila looks away and out the window. Her features relax as she takes in the beauty of her city.

   “Would you like to come with us?” She asks quietly.

   Rex frowns, “What do you mean?”

   “The season ball. Would you like to come with Alba and I tomorrow evening.” She looks back at him, a spark of hope appearing in her eyes.

   He tilts his head and sighs, “I don’t think I’d be allowed, Mila.”

   “Alba wants you there. And I’m the Senator.” She says before shrugging, “It will make Alba very happy if you were to go.”

   He stares at her with a small frown.

   “And what about you?” He asks, “Do you want me there?”

   She keeps his gaze for a second before answering.

   “I wouldn’t mind. If it will make Alba happy I am sure I can endure it. As I am doing now.”

His gaze drops from her’s and he looks away to Alba’s room.

   “If you are comfortable with it, then I’ll come.” He says.

   Camila nods, “I’ll have a tailor here in the morning with a suit.”

   “Okay.”

 

          The next day, Rex is fitted for a suit. Alba is especially excited when she finds out her father is coming to the season ball. She immediately began showing Rex how to dance and bow. Things Camila found adorable to look at… though she’d never tell Rex that.

   The modiste arrived in the afternoon, three hours before the ball, and Alba and Camila got into their dresses.

   Camila’s dress is a beige colour with subtle coloured leaves sewn up and into the waistline, a few pale pink roses sewn into it as well. Dark lines have also been sewn, representing branches, on the bodice. The neckline allows little cleavage to be shown and there are no sleeves but yellow leaves have been sewn rather extravagantly to cover the shoulders. The dress is long, gracing the floor as she walks and covering the white heels she wears underneath. 

   When she enters the living room with it on, she watches Rex’s jaw drop.

   “You look amazing, Mama.” Alba says, running over to her.

   “So do you, Alla.” She replies.

   The little girl’s dress is an orange with autumn leaves sewn into the skirt, a silk bodice with smaller leaves acting as sleeves. The dress doesn’t reach the floor like Camila’s, instead it stops just above Alba’s ankles so you can see her white trainers.

   Camila grabs Alba’s hand and they walk over to the modiste.

   “That looks like it fits well, milady.” The modiste says, walking over to the Senator. She checks the waist and sleeves and then nods to herself.

   “Like a glove.” Camila agrees. Alba runs over to Rex as the modiste does the final checks of Camila’s dress.

   “Yes. That’s all good then, Senator.” 

   “Thank you so much.” Camila thanks as the togruta gathers her things.

   “Anytime, milady. Enjoy your night.” She curtsies and then follows Camila’s Captain out the room.

   Camila then turns to look at Rex and Alba. Alba is smiling widely at her mother while Rex stares at her, almost entranced.

   “You look beautiful, Mila.” He compliments.

   “Really?” She asks, trying to stop herself from blushing, “The dress is gorgeous!”

   She runs a hand over the leaves by her sides. Rex watches her do so while Alba looks between her parents with a wide smile. She knows they aren’t on good terms that her father returning had caused it but since he came back a second time, her parents seem to have found common ground somewhere. She hopes they’ll get back together.

   “Now, the ball is in a couple hours and it’s going to take some time to get ready.” Camila begins.

   “She means it’ll take her time.” Alba translates and Rex chuckles.

   “Er… yeah.” Camila says, sending a suspicious frown, smiling slightly.

   “We should get out of these dresses though,” She says and Alba groans, “We don’t want to ruin them before we even go to the ball.”

   “Very well, Mama.” Alba agrees reluctantly. 

   Inej and Nanij then join them in the living room and Nanij gently guides Alba away, the little girl already telling her about everything she’s looking forward to that evening. Inej walks to Camila’s room, leaving Rex and Camila alone.

   She sighs and looks at the clone Captain.

   “Do you mean it?” She asks quietly.

   “That you look beautiful?” He questions, “Of course I do, Mila. You look amazing. I wish I got to see you more in dresses like this.”

   He steps closer to her as she smiles.

   “The Queen didn’t really hold any balls during the war. She’s doing so now to bring some peace of mind to the people.” She tells him.

   “Well if it gives you a reason to look like this, then everyone is lucky to be going.” He says with a grin.

   “Stop it.” Her eyes dart between his, a small smile appearing on her lips.

   “I am simply speaking the truth.” He states, holding up his hands.

   “And this cannot happen,” Camila replies, a pained look on her face, “Us. It can’t happen. Not again. I can’t do that to myself. I’m sorry.”

   “Why not, Mila?” He asks, “I’m not leaving like I did last time.”

   “You could do. You just might not know it yet. And I… I don't want to put myself through you leaving me all over again.” Camila says, “Alba seems to be the reason you are still hanging around, not me.”

   Rex stares at her, an unreadable expression, “What if it’s both of you?”

   “Then I’ll struggle to believe it. I wasn’t enough before. Wasn’t enough when I was pregnant with Alba.”

   “I didn’t know you were pregnant!” Rex throws up his hands and turns away.

   “I tried to tell you but you just ignored me, Rex!” Camila argues, following him as he walks away.

   “I was trying to protect you. How was I supposed to know you were pregnant if you didn’t tell me?” 

   “I couldn’t just text it, in case someone found out!” Camila scoffs.

   He comes to a stop in front of the large window overlooking the city.

   “I was protecting you from someone finding out you got me pregnant. If they’d found out you could’ve been decommissioned. Or worse. I couldn’t do that to you, Rex.” Camila stops a metre away, almost in tears, “I couldn’t do that.”

   “Yet you risked telling other people.” 

   “Only a few knew you were the father. And they were only people I trusted explicitly.” She defends.

   Rex remains quiet for a moment.

   “You’re never going to forgive me, are you?” He asks quietly.

   Camila closes her eyes in pain, letting out a sigh.

   “I don’t know if I ever will.” She replies.

Rex nods slowly.

   “I’m truly very sorry for all the pain I’ve caused you.” 

   He turns and walks back to his room.

   “Rex…” Camila says but he just continues walking.

   She watches him disappear into the hallway and then turns back to the window. Her hand gently covers her mouth as a single tear trails down her cheek.

   She stands there for a second, trying to stop more tears from falling. She hated that she couldn’t forgive Rex yet. She really tried to but her mind just wouldn’t let her. She’d spent so long protecting herself and Alba, now she wouldn’t even open that door, even slightly, to let him in.

   “Milady…?” Inej asks from behind her.

   Camila sighs and quickly wipes away the tears. She turns around with a small smile on her face.

   Inej stares at her for a second before deciding not to push her, “Would you like to start getting ready?”

   Camila nods and follows her to her bedroom, determined to leave the conversation behind.

 

      Camila purposely spent over two hours getting ready. Inej styled her brunette curls into a large bun, a few curls falling from it purposefully. A couple of leaf clips have been clipped into one side of it and a few strands frame her face. Her make-up is simple, pale purple eyeshadow matching the leaves in her hair and on her dress. Silver, branch-like bangles are around her wrists and her family ring rests on her left middle finger. A earpiece, similar to her bangles, weaves its way around her left ear with a sun-like piercing in her tragus on her other ear and a couple simple piercings around the top. Her Naravi necklace rests against her chest, while a little glitter decorates her collar bones.

   As always, a small, jewel-handled knife is hidden amongst her skirts, accompanied with a comm link.

   Camila sighs heavily as she stares at herself in the mirror.

   “You look gorgeous.” Inej compliments as she pins Camila’s hair.

   “Thank you, Inej.” She says, fiddling with her mother’s wedding ring.

   “You should wear it, milady.” Inej tells her, watching her play with the ring.

   “You think so?”

   “It’s beautiful. It’ll look right on your finger.” She steps away from Camila and smiles at her work, “There. Perfect!”

   “Thank you, Inej. It looks amazing. I am most grateful.” She thanks, getting to her feet. 

   The handmaiden blushes and smiles, “You’re welcome.”

   Camila walks over to the body length mirror and stares at herself for a second, still playing with the ring. She then sighs and slips it on her right ring finger before clasping her hands together.

   “Let’s go, shall we?” 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

well that was a mixture of emotions.

i love rex and mila’s little happy moments. they both love alba to bits and do try for her.
also mila’s dress is inspired by something I found on pinterest; https://i.pinimg.com/564x/88/83/72/888372858fb9ee6b88760d1985726591.jpg

rex adores her but she finds it hard to trust him. no hate on either of them please!! camila’s opinions are valid and remember this is a bit of a slow burn so they’re going to go three it. alba is and will be playing match maker with the batch fyi ;)

i know it’s been a while but here you go!! hope everyone’s enjoying their weekend! the next chapter is going to be a bit heavy….
love you all x

Chapter 12: the season ball

Summary:

the three go to the seasons ball...
( brace yourselves )

 

 

ignoscere, debes oblivisci  —  to forgive, you must forget

 

 

          Once again, Camila steps out of the room, her skirts brushing against the doorframe as she does so. A nervous smile graces her features as she glances back at Inej. The handmaiden gives her a comforting smile.

   Camila nods and walks forward. She enters the living room, graceful as always. Alba and Rex wait there, Alba in her dress and Rex in a suit that seemed to match Camila’s dress. The two of them turn around and Alba grins at her mother. 

   She runs over and grabs the Senator’s hand.

   “Let's go!” She exclaims in excitement, jumping on the balls of her feet.

   Camila locks eyes with Rex, who’s look of slight awe switches to one of sadness. He looks down and walks over to her. The clone Captain holds out his arm,

   “Ma’am.” He says.

   Camila stares at him for a long second before gently placing her arm through his.

   “Yes. Let’s go!” She smiles down at her daughter, squeezing her hand.

   Alba giggles then runs ahead of them slightly as they follow Captain Narvor and Alba’s personal guard, Tavin, out of the room.

   The three of them walk through the palace halls as they make their way to the ballroom. Alba’s giggles and eager words fill the hall, her parents walking behind her in silence.

   As they approach the main doors, Alba comes back to her parents, taking her mother’s hand. Her guards move to stand behind them as the large gold doors are pushed open. 

   The ball is already in full swing with couples dancing and people lingering. Waiters with glasses of sweet fizz and other lightly alcoholic drinks walk about the room in white suits. The decorations are extravagant and magnificent . The Queen sits upon a low balcony, overlooking the ballroom, her maids-in-waiting sit behind her, one fanning her lightly, while her ladies-in-waiting stand amongst the guests. 

   The trio scan the room before Camila leads them to the side. Asziya is quick to appear, grinning at her cousins.

   “Hello, Aunt Mila! Alba!” She greets. Camila smiles down at her gently.

   “Hello Asz. Are you enjoying yourself?”

   “These balls never cease to amaze me. Mother has done an excellent job.” Asziya glances over at the Queen with a happy smile.

   “She always does, my dear.” Camila looks between them fondly.

   The girl then holds her hand out to Alba, “Would you like to dance, Allie?”

   Alba looks to her parents for permission and when they both nod, she takes her cousin’s hand with a grin and the two disappear into the crowd.

   A waiter passes by and Rex and Camila take a drink from his tray. They both take a sip, avoiding eye contact. 

   “Welcome to the season ball.” Camila says after a couple minutes, “What do you think?”

   Rex looks around the room with wide eyes, “It’s quite something”

   Camila nods in agreement. She glances at the Queen, then looks back at him.

   “We should go greet the Queen.” She says.

   Rex’s eyebrows raise in astonishment, “We? I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

   “She knows you’re here, Rex, and she knows of Alba. Plus, as proved a couple weeks ago when the Batch came for the funeral, I’m not as discreet as I think I am.” She replies with a shrug.

   Rex grimaces before nodding slowly, “Alright then.”

   Camila gently takes Rex’s elbow and guides him around the outside of the ballroom to the balcony. 

   They’re greeted by the Queen’s head bodyguard, Rensford. He lets them past, the guard shooting Rex a wary look, and the pair ascend the very short flight of stairs to the Queen. They stop, a few metres to the side of her and Camila drops into a curtsy, Rex bowing beside her. They then stand straight and Camila shoots Rex a reassuring smile. 

   “It’s an exquisite ball, your majesty.” Camila compliments, meeting Queen Elvira’s kind gaze. 

   The older woman nods at them, “As is your dress, Senator.”

   Camila blushes slightly.

   “And you must be Captain Rex.” Queen Elvira states, looking the clone up and down.

   Rex bows again, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, your majesty.”

   Queen Elvira hums, clearly salty towards him. Camila bites back a grimace as the Queen’s attention goes back to her.

   “I hope you enjoy yourselves. I’m sure Alba will have a great time.”

   Camila curtsies and Rex bows once again, before they both turn and walk away.

   At the bottom of the stairs, Camila takes Rex’s arm and guides him away from the balcony.

   “Told you that was a bad idea.” He tells her, “She despises me.”

   “Only because she knows everything that occurred between us.” Camila explains.

   “You told her?!” He stops and looks at her.

   “She’s my aunt, Rex.” 

   Rex sighs and shakes his head, “This is a bad idea. I should go.”

   “And now you’re just going to leave again? What a surprise!” Camila rolls her eyes and looks away from him.

   “Like you said, you don’t want to get hurt again so why should I stay?” He retorts.

   “Because… because…” She tries to come up with a reason, her eyes searching the crowd as if it is going to help her.

   “See? There is no reason. I’m going to say goodbye to Alba. I’ll be gone before you come back.” He sighs and steps away from her.

   Camila’s eyes fill with tears as she watches him, her heart pounds in her chest. It is happening all over again.

   “You wish to hurt a child?” She asks, shaking her head, “Alba’s going to be heartbroken.”

   “I’m sure she’ll understand.” Rex looks down, tears building in his own eyes, “I’m sorry, Camila.”

   He turns and disappears, leaving her alone once again.

   Camila gasps for air, as if she is suffocating. She looks around her, searching for a comforting face. Searching for Rex. There is nothing though. He’s not there. 

   She chokes back a sob, moving to the back of the crowd and disappearing through one of the doors.

   She gasps loudly, trying to steady her beating heart as her ears begin to ring. Her hand brushes against the wall as she trembles, trying to push herself along. She can’t breath, her forehead sweats while she shakes. 

   She stumbles past more doors, ignoring the questions of the guards she passes. Soon, she finds herself at the large doors she came in by. Letting out a sob, she turns away from them and pulls herself along the hallway that leads back to her wing.

   Tears are streaming down her cheeks now, her heart pounds so quickly, pain begins to fill her chest. She clutches her hand to her heart, trying to ignore the overwhelming dizziness.

   A voice behind her calls her name but she doesn’t turn, she continues to walk, ignoring the faint footsteps. She trips on a step, falling to her knees, her grip on the wall, loosening.

   Her eyelids begin to flicker as her other hand goes to clutch her head.

   Someone approaches her and crouches beside her. Faint calls of her name do nothing to bring her back to reality. She hears faint arguing as someone else joins them.

   A gentle hand gripping her jaw. Rex’s face appearing.

   “Breath with me, cyare.” That’s what he says.

   Her expression clenches in distress and he takes one of her hands, putting against his own heart. He holds in place, his face calm as he reassures her.

   “Breath with me.”

   She feels the steady beat of his heart below her hand as she attempts to match it.

   “Alba told me about how you’re trying to teach her how to fly.” He begins talking to her, “She says she’s making excellent progress and that she wants to be a pilot one day.” He shakes his head with a chuckle, “She’s got big goals for a four year old.”

   The ringing in her ears begins to fade and his voice comes through clearer.

   “She says she wants to be a mechanic as well, helping out the rebellion. Apparently she sneaked into your office and discovered a few things. You two are more alike than I thought.” He smiles softly as her heart rate begins to calm, his distraction working.

   “It’s probably a good thing the Republic didn’t know anything. They wouldn’t be able to handle her when she got older.” 

   Her chest rises and falls heavily as she comes out of her panicked state. The dizziness and ringing disappear as the shakes begins to stop.

   Rex grips her hand against his chest, his smile soothing her.

   “Are you okay?” He asks quietly.

   She stares at him for a second before nodding.

   “Milady,” Captain Narvor starts, “Would you like me to fetch a medic?”

   Camila shakes her head, looking up at him, “No. Please get Alba. I would like to retire.”

   He nods and walks away.

   Camila turns back to look at Rex.

   “How did you know that would work?” She asks, her voice slightly hoarse.

   “Ahsoka once used it on me when I was having one, and I’ve used it on my brothers before too.” He explains.

   She nods again, “Thank you,” She mutters.

   He nods at her.

   “Mama?!” Alba’s worried voice rings behind them and the parents turn to see the young girl running over, Tavin and Captain Narvor behind her.

   “Mama, are you okay?” She crouches down, her eyes filling with tears as she looks at her mother.

   “I’m okay, baby.” Camila gently strokes away the tears on Alba’s cheek, “I just had a funny turn.”

   Alba sniffs and wraps her arms around her mother’s neck, hugging her tightly. Camila hugs her back, knowing that she looks a mess. She meets Rex’s eyes over her daughter’s head and he looks down, guiltily.

   Alba pulls away and wipes her hand under her nose with a sniff.

   “We should go back.” Captain Narvor suggests and Camila nods.

   “Please notify the Queen. I’ll see her tomorrow if she wishes.” 

   Captain Narvor nods. He gives a loaded look to Tavin before walking away.

   Rex, still holding Camila’s hand, takes her other hand and helps her to her feet. She mutters a thank you, linking her arm with his. Alba grabs her mother’s other hand and Tavin ushers them back to her wing of the palace.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

woah, so that was intense. told you it was gonna be heavy.
please understand that Rex is scared of hurting Mila and Alba and that he left because he was just overthinking things. my headcanon is that he's got anxiety of something because as a captain he's always overthinking and doublechecking. plus he's not overly used to relationships and having a kid and stuff as he was bred to fight and die on a battlefield.
but in this chapter you can see how Rex leaving again has really affected Mila despite her efforts to come across as though she doesn't care, and this is a bit of a turning point in their relationship.

anywho, hope you liked it. i know it's been a while but i've been busy, of course, and haven't gotten around to posting anything.
have a nice day/night. x

Chapter 13: blood and smoke

Summary:

the next morning...

 

 

 cor meum paulum erumpit quom nomen tuum audio  —  my heart breaks a little when i hear your name

 

 

       The next day, Camila is determined to forget what happened the previous night, despite the questions of whether Rex is leaving or not swirling around her head. She was a bit embarrassed that he’d seen her like that, ashamed with herself that she had reacted that way. 

   Walking out of her room the next morning, Camila’s heart rate picks up slightly, unsure if he is still here. She fixes a calm smile on her face and enters the living room, smoothing out a wrinkle in her deep purple coloured skirt.

   Rex and Alba are sitting on the couch when she walks in, allowing her to release a breath she didn’t know she was holding.

   Camila walks over to them and picks up the datapad that rests on the armchair.

   “Good morning,” She greets.

   “Morning, Mama.” Alba gets up and gives her mother a hug.

   “Morning, Alla.”

   “Good morning,” Rex says, shooting her a smile.

   She looks away and grins at her daughter.

   “What are we going to do today, Alla?” She asks. 

   The young girl had recently ended school for the holidays and she had six weeks of freedom before she went back for a new year. She was also beyond excited for her birthday next week.

   The young girl shrugs, “I don’t know.”

   “Well, I'm off to see the Queen in a couple minutes.” Camila tells her, just as her lieutenant enters the room.

   “I’ll stay here with Daddy then.” Alba replies, “I want to show him the gardens.”

   Camila nods with a gentle smile, “Good idea, Alla.”

   The young girl grins and walks back over to her father. She picks up her own datapad and settles down on the couch.

   Camila glances at Rex before turning away. She begins tidying the papers that are scattered across the coffee table.

   Behind her, Rex looks down at his daughter. The young girl raises an eyebrow and smirks at her father. He frowns suspiciously at her before getting to his feet and walking over to the Senator. 

   “Hey. How are you feeling?” He asks her quietly, standing beside her.

   “I’m fine, thank you.” She replies, gathering the now neat pile of papers.

   “Are you sure? You seemed pretty shaken up last night.” He says, kind eyes scanning her face.

   Camila sighs and looks at him. She meets his gaze with a tired expression.

   “You don’t have to worry about me, Rex.” She tells him, stepping around him.

   She begins walking to her office. Rex sighs in exasperation, meeting Alba’s eye. The young girl nods in encouragement, grinning at him. A small smile appears on his face. She was her mother’s daughter.

   He follows Camila, the Senator entering the office a few seconds before him.

   “I do worry about you, Mila.” He says, “Did I not prove that last night?”

   Camila places the papers on her desk, her datapad on top, as she lets out a sigh.

   “And the reason last night happened, was because you were going to leave again. Which, by the way, I have noticed you have not.” She looks at him with a slight glare, “Did you not tell Alba that you were leaving or simply spot me on the way out? I’m sure you only remain now out of pity.”

   He sighs heavily and steps further into the room. 

   It’s now Camila notices that he’s not dressed in his armour or the suit from the previous night. She hates to admit how good he looks in jeans and a t-shirt.

   “I was simply trying to make things easier. For both of us.” He tries to explain.

   “By leaving? Again.”

   “Mila. I did not mean for you to have a panic attack.” He holds his hands out, almost pleadingly.

   “But you meant to leave. And now you stay out of pity.” She crosses her arms.

   “I stayed because I worry for you. And I don’t wish to leave. Alba wasn’t happy when I told her this morning—“ 

   “—you didn’t tell her last night?!” Camila frowns deeply.

   Rex opens his mouth then closes it again.

   “Well… I was going to wait until the morning. I was going to see her just before I left. I didn’t want to ruin her evening.”

   Camila shakes her head in disbelief, “You are unbelievable!”

   “Mila, please. After seeing you like that last night, I knew immediately it was a bad idea. I couldn’t lose you again!” He’s standing on the other side of the desk now. It is the only thing that separates them.

   “But the fact you even considered the idea and actually planned to go through it, Rex! Right when I thought that there could be a possibility of me trusting you again, you just went straight ahead and gave me a reason not to. All because the Queen was a bit salty towards you.” She shakes her head, trying to stop herself from crying. 

   “Mila…”

   “No, Rex. You’re right, maybe this is a bad idea.” She clenches her jaw as she avoids eye contact.

   “Mila, plea—“

   He’s interrupted as Lieutenant Hazeen runs in.

   “Forgive me, Senator.” He says with a bow.

   “What is it, Lieutenant?” Camila asks with a frown.

   “It’s your sister, milady. Her ship has landed.”

   Rex and Camila share a look of shock before they move quickly to follow the Lieutenant.

   “Call Nanij. Have her take Alba for a walk.” Camila orders as they walk quickly through the corridors, “And call for a medic. We may need one.”

   Hazeen nods and gestures for two of the guards following to do so, leaving him and one other.

   Just as they approach the landing bay, Camila speaks again,

   “Is Tavin with Alba?” She asks as their little group slows down.

   “Yes, milady.” Hazeen replies.

   She nods and they walk onto the bay, approaching the Marauder .

   The exit ramp is down and Camila sees the group descending it. Hazel steps out and Camila sighs in relief.

   “Hazel!” She calls.

   Her sister spins around, “Mila!”

   The younger sister runs towards her and Camila quickens her pace. She pulls Hazel into a hug, shutting her eyes as she takes in her sister’s smell of blood and smoke. 

   “You look like shit.” Camila says as they finally pull apart. The older woman clasps her sister’s hands as her eyes dart over her face.

   “What did they do to you?”

   “Nothing I couldn’t handle.” Hazel attempts to reassure her.

   Camila shakes her head before hugging her again, this time more gently.

   “I’m so glad you’re okay. I’ve been worried sick!”

   Over her sister’s shoulder, Camila sees Rex speaking to Hunter and Echo. Lena and Astoria sit on the steps side by side with Omega on the step above. Wrecker stands on the ground beside them and Tech leans against the doorway of the Marauder .

   They pull apart again and Hazel takes one of Camila’s hands, leading her over to the group.

   “How’s it going with you and Rex?” She asks quietly.

   “You were just captured by the Empire and smell and look like you've been through three rounds with the devil, and you’re asking me about me and Rex?!” Camila looks at her sister with a raised eyebrow.

   “I want to know the gossip!” She defends, making her sister laugh.

   “Maybe later.” Camila replies as they join the others.

   Lena, Astoria and Omega descend the ship’s steps and walk over to them. Camila gently hugs the three girls, asking if they’re okay. Omega hugs her for longer than the others and when the young girl pulls away, Camila gently plays with the girl’s hair.

   “Come inside. I have a medic waiting to see you all.” Camila orders them. They begin to protest slightly but a stern look from the Senator makes them stop.

   Camila gently takes Omega’s hand and leads the way back to her place, the two guards following after them.

Notes:

so Rex stayed. yeah. it is out of pity but he also feels really bad. please understand that he wasn't raised to have relationships and children so don't be mad at him for trying to find the easy way out. he is a soldier and was born and bred to be.
and mom and dad are fighting again. of course they are.
also THE BATCH ARE BACK!! and they're going to be around for a few chapters. their stay is kind of the ending of like an act one, or season one of this book.

hope you all enjoyed the double update :)
ly all x

Chapter 14: the batch

Summary:

The Bad Batch explain what happened on Kamino...

 

 

omnis anguli domus huius est uada  —  every corner of this house is haunted

 

      The group enters the living room, Alba, having been taken away by Nanij. A medic awaits, as promised, and he’s quick to get to work. The Batch takes seats on the plush couch, sitting on washable blankets to avoid getting the material dirty.

   Camila tends to Omega separately, keeping far away from where Rex is talking to Tech and Echo.

   Once she’s finished treating the young girl’s scrapes, she hands Omega a change of clothes and a blanket and points her in the direction of Alba’s room so she can change.

   The blonde disappears and Camila gets to her feet. She sits down between Lena and Hazel, taking one of the girls’ hands each and gripping them in her own.

   “You should have told me.” Camila says quietly.

   Lena sighs, “I didn’t want you to get involved in case something bad happened. I couldn’t do that to Alba.” She replies, just as quietly.

   Camila remains silent for a second.

   “What the hell happened?” She asks.

   Hazel and Lena share a look, which Camila ignores.

   “Hunter and I were caught and taken to Kamino by Crosshair,” Hazel begins. 

   The mention of the sniper causes Camila’s breath to hitch and Hazel’s voice to crack slightly.

   “We went after them, of course,” Lena continues, “But once we got there it wasn’t that easy. He had us surrounded almost immediately.”

   “But he betrayed them, killed all of his new squad.” Hazel adds.

   Lena nods before continuing, “Hazel knocked him unconscious and our plan was to bring him with us. But…”

   She trails off and Camila looks at her. The others had since fallen silent, all listening to the story.

   “The Empire opened fire on Kamino.” Echo growls out, his jaw clenching as he glares holes into the carpet.

   “We almost went down with Tipoca City until we found our way to Nala Se’s secret lap.” Astoria says, her voice soft and quiet, “Thanks to Omega.”

   Camila looks at the medic with sorrowful eyes.

   “We used the tanks that the boys and Omega were born in, to travel back to the surface.” Astoria continues, “We lost the droid but Omega and Lena went back for it,” She gestures at the AZI droid laying on the coffee table, “Luckily, Crosshair pulled them out. We got back to the platform but he refused to come with us.”

   “Wanted to go back to his precious Empire!” Wrecker scoffs.

   “We had nowhere else to go.” Hazel whispers.

   Camila looks at her before looking at the others, “You’re always welcome here. All of you. I’ve told you before.”

   They all fall silent as Omega rejoins them.

   “Did you see Jayana?” Rex asks, quietly. 

   The squad’s faces are even more crestfallen now and Camila squeezes her eyes shut.

   “She’s with the Empire.” Lena finally admits, “She’s the High Inquisitor.”

   Hazel gets to her feet and walks away, disappearing into the hallway. Astoria follows after her as Hunter gently wraps an arm around his girlfriend’s waist.

   Omega sits between Echo and Tech, a blanket wrapped around her shoulders. She gently leans into Echo’s side and he rubs his hand against her back.

   Wrecker soon stands and follows the two girls.

   “You can stay for as long as you like. Whatever you need.” Camila tells them quietly.

   “Thank you, Senator.” Hunter says. 

   She musters up a smile but doesn’t direct it to anyone. The front door slides open and Alba walks in. The young girl runs over to them and Camila quickly gets up. She picks up her daughter and walks away to the window.

   “Mama! Why can’t I say hi?” Alba asks.

   “It’s not the time for that Alla.” Camila tells her, gently, “They’ve been through a lot the last couple of days and have lost people close to them. Your father and the squad have lost something very dear to them. Their home.”

   “Oh no!” Alba exclaims, quietly, shooting the group on the couch a sad glance, “Where’s Auntie Hazel and Auntie Tori? And Uncle Wrecker?!” 

   The young girl’s heart rate picks up slightly as she notices their absence.

   “They’re in their rooms, Alla. Don’t worry. They just wanted a minute alone.” Camila reassures her and the young girl calms down.

   “Can I see Omega now?” She asks after a second.

   “Be extra gentle and supportive, baby.” Camila advises with a nod. 

   Alba nods back and Camila puts her on the ground. She takes the little girl’s hand and gently guides her over to the sofas. 

   Alba walks over to Omega and puts her arms out.

   “Would you like a hug?” She asks, softly.

   Omega looks at her and nods. The blonde gets up, leaving the blanket between Echo and Tech. She wraps her arms around the four-year-old’s shoulders, Alba wrapping her’s around the older girl’s waist.

   “I’m sorry for your loss.” Alba whispers.

   Camila watches them as she sits back down beside Lena.

   She drags her gaze away from the two girls and glances over at Rex. The Captain is staring at the ground and Camila could pretty much sense the sadness radiating from him. It was taking a lot for her not to go over there and comfort him.

   Alba does it for her though. She pulls away from Omega and gives the blonde a reassuring smile, before quickly walking over to her father.

   “Daddy.” She whispers and he looks up at her. He opens his arms and she’s quick to climb into his lap, resting the side of her face against his chest. He places a kiss to her sandy coloured hair and then rests his chin on top of her head.

   Tech gets up and walks away, probably to find Hazel and the others.

   “Please, make yourselves at home. Someone has already readied the same rooms from your previous visit.” Camila tells the others.

   Hunter and Lena shoot her grateful smiles before leaving after Tech.

   Camila walks over to Echo and Omega, sitting where Tech was previously. Omega moves away from Echo and leans into the Senator. Camila puts an arm around the girl’s blanketed shoulders and Omega’s breathing begins to slow as her eyes flicker shut.

   “Are you okay?” She asks Echo, quietly.

   He nods, looking away from Omega and to the brunette she clutches.

   “I’ve been better.” He mutters.

   Camila reaches over and gives his hand a reassuring squeeze.

   “I’m here if you need to talk.” She tells him and he gives her a grateful smile.

   A soft snore falls from Omega’s lips and they both look at the blonde.

   “I should take her to bed.” Echo says, putting his arms out.

   “I’ll take her. You go and rest.” Camila denies.

   “Are you sure?”

   “Yes. Now go. I know you need it.” She smiles, softly, at him and he squeezes her hand.

   The clone gets to his feet and walks over to Rex. He places a hand on his shoulder before going to his room.

   Camila gently strokes Omega’s blonde hair as she stares at the couch across from her.

   There’s silence for a few minutes before Alba moves her head from her father’s chest and looks up at him. He looks back at her, after shooting his ex girlfriend a glance.

   “Are you okay, Daddy?” She asks.

   He gently rubs her arms and nods, “I’m fine, ad’ika.” 

   Alba nods, knowing not to push it, and gets out of her father’s lap. She then walks back over to her mother and Omega.

   “Mama…?” She whispers.

   “Omega’s asleep, baby.” Camila whispers back to her. Alba nods as Rex gets to his feet.

   “Do you want me to take her?” He says and Camila nods.

   Rex gently picks his sister up, holding her close to his chest. Camila gets to her feet and leads him to Omega’s room, Alba right behind them.

   Camila opens the door to the room beside Alba’s, the four-year-old going in her own room, and Rex walks past her and gently lays Omega on the bed. He tucks a strand of hair behind the girl’s ear as Camila watches from the doorway. 

   This wasn’t the first time she’d seen a scene like this. Alba often fell asleep on either one of them but it never failed to warm her heart when she watched him put her to bed. He really was a good father, despite his absences.

   She approaches the bed and crouches beside Omega. She places a gentle kiss on the young girl’s forehead and strokes her hair.

   “Sleep well, sweetie.” She whispers and gets to her feet. 

   Camila follows Rex out of the room, quietly shutting the door behind them.

   As soon as the door shuts, she lets out a sigh and wraps her arms around herself. She begins to walk away and Rex follows her.

   “Can we finish our conversation from earlier?” He asks.

   Camila sighs again, walking into the living room, “Are you sure that’s a good idea?”

   “I want to sort this out, Mila.” Rex says as they sit down on the sofa.

   “And you just found out that the only home you’ve ever known has been destroyed.” Camila gives him a soft smile before it drops, “And that Jayana is an Inquisitor.”

   Rex lets out a heavy breath, “I don’t want to think about that right now.”

   “If you don’t, it’ll all bottle up and you’ll regret it. Believe me.” She tells him, raising an eyebrow.

   He smiles slightly, looking up at her.

   “You want me to talk about my feelings to you, when you most certainly would never do it to me?” He mimics her expression, also raising an eyebrow.

   She lets out a short laugh, “This isn’t about me. You’re mourning.”

   “As are you… for your mother…” Rex watches as she looks away.

   “I don’t want to talk about my mother.” Camila says, quietly, rubbing one of her hands along her arm.

   “Then you know how I feel.” He whispers, leaning back and resting his head against the back of the sofa. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath.

   Camila watches him for a second. A part of her wants to walk over there and curl into his side, appreciate the warmth of his body, comforting both him and herself. Another part of her wants to walk out of the room and curl up in bed, to comfort herself.  She didn’t want to argue or bring up old memories. The conversation they had earlier could wait. Talking about her mother was something that she wanted to tell Rex about just as much as she didn’t want to.

   The Senator clasps her hands together and gets to her feet. She walks over to the balcony, the glass sliding up as she gets close enough. Camila walks out to the stone railing and places her clasped hands on top, leaning against it.

   Rex watches her leave, not moving his head from the back of the sofa. He maintains his gaze on her, steadily watching as she stands on the balcony, breathing softly. The same thoughts she just had were running through his, not that even of them knew.

   He leans forward and gets to his feet. He follows her out and stands beside her.

   “Mila…” He begins quietly, turning to her.

   She straightens and turns her head to look at him. Uncertainty graces his features as he peers at her, questioningly. He seemed to be double guessing his choice. Sadness and her own uncertainty graces her own. 

   No words pass between them as Camila slowly nods and steps towards him. She places her head on his chest as he wraps his arms around her smaller body. Her own arms, hands clenched in fists, rest against his chest, as both their eyes fall shut. The silence between them is comforting as they just stand there. In peace. In quiet. In relaxation.

 

 

 

Notes:

I'm actually in tears. I wrote this a while ago but rereading it is making me cry.
this episode was so sad to watch but telling it this way, also pretty hard. I love them all so much!
Alba being the cutest, as always. She's so sweet and caring, and her and Rex's Father/Daughter relationship is the best. Also Omega and Rex's relationship is so underrated. He's such a good big brother and dad.
And the angst between Mila and Rex! I can't. They are impossible. I've written so many chapters of them and so much of me wants to just get them together but they are so stubborn, Mila especially, and so am i so it'll be a while. Their inner thoughts haunt me daily.

I know it has been a while but i've been very busy and honestly, haven't had time to write or post. But here you are!!
Hope you enjoyed :))

Chapter 15: still love each other

Summary:

Plans are made and the Batch join the family of three on a shopping trip...

 

 

cum tibi dolet. non videntes te laedere nimis.  —  seeing you hurts. not seeing you hurts too.

 

 

    Neither of them say a word about what happened on the balcony. Nor do they suggest talking about Kamino or Camila’s mother again.

   Camila’s visit with the Queen is calm and peaceful, although she often found herself defending Rex against her aunt’s insinuations. 

   The Batch sleeps and mope for the rest of the day and the following morning. Camila makes sure they have filling meals, although not all of it is eaten.

   Alba quickly brings a smile back to their faces though and soon enough, her and Omega begin working on rebuilding AZI with Tech and Echo. 

   That evening, Lena and Hunter approach Camila as she flicks through furniture brochures on her datapad.  

   “Hey, Mila?” Lena starts. 

   Camila looks up with a small smile, “Hey, you okay?”

   Lena nods, matching the smile. She then gives Hunter a nervous look before continuing,

   “We were wondering if we could stay with you for a couple weeks before we return to Ord Mantell. The others really like it here and we think—”

   “Yeah, sure.” Camila grins and places a reassuring hand on Lena’s arm, “Stay for as long as you need.”

   She smiles at Hunter before walking away, leaving the slightly stunned but happy couple.

 

   The following morning, when Rex and Camila are trying to get Alba to change from the pyjamas she insists on wearing all day, Hazel approaches with a question.

   Camila looks at her sister with a tired expression, trying to ignore Rex’s attempts to trick their daughter.

   “What is it, Haze?” Camila asks, dragging up a smile.

   “It’s simply a question of what to do?” Hazel replies.

   Camila frowns at her, “What do you mean?”

   “Well, I think we all need a bit of a distraction at the moment and are struggling to find it in your home. Despite Alba’s best attempts.” She gestures at Alba and Rex and the two look at them. 

   Rex shakes his head, an amused smile on his face as Alba crosses her arms with a deep frown.

   The women smile at the scene, before looking at each other again.

   “Well, there are places to go. The summer market is always tasteful. As is the carnival the next couple weekends. Very entertaining.” Camila grins at her sister, “There’s also the mall and the beach.”

   “The beach?” Hazel raises an eyebrow.

   “Yes. I have a house down there. Sandy beaches, sky blue oceans. You remember?” Camila clasps her hands together in front of her as Hazel recalls the beach of their childhood.

   “Yes, I remember. But I didn’t not know you had a holiday home?!” Hazel looks at her in surprise.

   Camila shrugs, “I bought it at the beginning of last year.”

   “Of course you did.” Hazel chuckles slightly, shaking her head.

   “Perhaps a few days down there might ease minds.” Camila hints, smirking slightly.

   Hazel hums, “And perhaps Alba might listen to her parents if we were there.”

   They both turn to look at Rex and Alba. The clone captain had since managed to persuade Alba to change from her pyjamas and she was doing so albeit reluctantly. 

   “I’m sure she will. It will be a nice little lead up to her birthday next week.” 

   Hazel nods, “What are you doing for it?”

   “Alba wants a party,” Camila sighs, “So I’m not entirely sure what’s going to happen entirely. Rex hopes to still be here for it. Especially since he’s already missed four.”

   She watches Rex as he gives their daughter a waiting smile. He glances over at them and upon seeing her eyes on him, gives her a small smile. Camila quickly looks away and back to her sister. 

   Hazel smirks up at her, causing the Senator to nudge her in the ribs.

   “The beach it is then.” Hazel decides.

   “Fantastic!” Camila rejoices, “I’ll have someone begin preparations. We can leave tomorrow morning! I think a shopping trip is in order. None of you have nearly enough clothes, nor swim wear!”

   Hazel laughs at her sister and nods, “I’ll tell the others!”

   She walks away and Camila turns her grin to Rex and her daughter.

   “Alla! Are you still not changed?” She asks, walking back over to them.

   “Mama..!” She groans.

   “Very well, then. No ice cream for you.” Camila says, crossing her arms, “And you can remain here while we all go to the beach for the next few days.”

   “What?! Mama! That’s not fair!” Alba whines, “I’ll change, I promise! Please let me come!” 

   She jumps down from the bed and runs over to her mother. The young girl grabs Camila’s hands as she begs.

   “Get changed into something nice and then you might be able to go!” Camila tells her with a sigh.

   Alba grins and runs over to her bed. She grabs the dress there and begins changing.

   Rex turns to Camila with his eyebrows raised.

   “The beach?”

   “I have a house down there,” Camila shrugs, “And the Batch would like a distraction so I said we could take a trip down there.”

   “I don’t think—“

   “And you are coming with us! No excuses.” Camila smirks, challengingly.

   Rex lets out a breathy laugh.

   “Alright then.”

   Camila smiles, “Great! Now, we’re all going shopping and you’re also coming with us. Everyone needs some more clothes.”

   “Including you?” He asks.

   “One can never have enough clothes, Rex.” She replies, walking over to help Alba into her dress.

 

         The group walk through the mall, people sending respective nods to their Senator as Camila’s guards make sure they don’t get too close.

   Alba and Omega walk ahead, giggling about something, while the others follow, looking at the shops.

   “Clothing is a must. Along with necessities for you all!” Camila says. Inej walks beside her while Nanij follows the children. Shizej, Camila’s designer, also accompanies them.

   “And how are we going to pay for this?” Rex asks as they enter the first store.

   Camila just smiles at him and walks ahead. He stares after, a small smile appearing on his lips. Echo comes up beside his brother and nudges him with a smirk.

   “Shut up.” Rex mutters, following the others. Echo chuckles and walks with him as Rex shakes his head.

   They spend over two hours in the mall and in that time Camila has spent a lot of money on them, herself and Alba, despite all their protests. 

   The children are quite tired afterwards and Alba falls asleep against her mother on the way back.

   Camila wraps her shawl around her daughter’s shoulders as she watches them pull up at the speeder entrance to her wing of the palace. The door opens and the others get out. Rex walks over to the speeder, having been in the other one, and pokes his head in. Camila gently strokes a few blonde strands away from Alba’s peaceful face.

   “Mila…” Rex calls, quietly. 

   Camila looks up at him with a small smile.

   “Coming.” She replies.

   She then gently moves to pick Alba up. The young girl makes little noise as she’s taken into her mother’s arms. Camila holds her close to her body, the young girl’s head resting against the Senator’s shoulder and the shawl tucks her in.

   Camila walks slowly out of the speeder, meeting Rex at the door. He meets her eyes, a questioning look there and Camila nods. Rex puts his arms out and gently lifts Alba from her mother’s arms. Camila supports the young girl’s head as Rex rests her body against his. She stops the shawl from falling and places it over her own shoulders. 

   “She’s fast asleep.” Rex murmurs and Camila nods.

   Unbeknownst to them, the Batch watches from afar, small smirks on their faces.

   “Who knew that would work?” Lena mutters.

   “They still love each other.” Echo says and they all hum in agreement.

   They watch as Camila presses a kiss to Alba’s head, Rex watching her as she does so.

   “Ten credits says they get back together before he leaves again.” Wrecker bets.

   Tech and Hunter nod in agreement.

   Hazel shakes her head, “I reckon within the next couple of months.”

   Lena and Echo voice their agreements and Tech notes it down on his datapad.

   “Tori?” Wrecker looks at his girlfriend for her bet.

   “I bet that they’ll kiss before he leaves but they won’t get together for a few months after.” She says, crossing her arms with a small smile.

   Wrecker raises his eyebrows and shares a look with Hazel.

   “Alright.”

   The parents walk over to the group and they all make their way inside.

 

 

 

Notes:

DOUBLE UPDATE!!!
and im still screaming over rex and mila. I can't with them its too much. they're so cute.
but BEACH TRIP WITH THE BATCH!! its going to be a fun few chapters so settle in.

also, not happy with whats going on in america at the moment. i live in britain but i still feel upset about whats happened. my support goes out to everyone out there <3

Chapter 16: the beach

Summary:

the group head to the beach, and some things are discussed...

si non possum te multum amare, omnino non possum amare —  if i can’t love you a lot, i can’t love you at all

 

           The following morning, they all take the Starbird to the beach. Their bags are taken to their rooms and Camila gives them all a tour. They all settle in quickly and soon agree to meet down at the beach. 

   Camila changes into a deep purple bikini, underneath a flowy, white sundress. She packs a few essentials into a bag and begins applying suncream to herself. She then plaits her brunette curls and goes to find Alba.

   The young girl is playing with her teddies, only wearing her pink swimsuit.

   “Alla? Are you not putting clothes over the top?” Camila asks as she places her bag on the floor.

   Alba gets up, leaving her teddies, and walks over to the suitcase beside the wardrobe.

   “I don’t know, Mama.”

   Camila walks over to her and rifles through the suitcase. She pulls out a yellow poncho with blue butterflies on it and pink tassels. She holds it up and a grin breaks out on her daughter’s face.

   “Yeah!” She cheers and is quick to pull it on. Camila smiles and takes out the child friendly sunscreen that’s tucked into a pouch. She puts some on her hand and gently takes her daughter’s arm, beginning to apply it.

   “Can I ask you something, Mama?”

   Camila nods, “Of course, Alla, what is it?”

   “Are you and Daddy getting back together?”

   Camila pauses her movements, her eyes widening at the question. She lets out a nervous chuckle and picks up the bottle, squirting more sunscreen onto her hand.

   “What-what makes you think that?”

   Alba shrugs, “I see the way you look at each other and how you are around each other.”

   “What is going on between your father and I is complicated, sweetie.” Camila attempts to explain, “But it doesn’t mean we don’t try for you.”

   “Do you love him?”

   “No, honey.”

   “Did you love him?” Alba’s question is quiet and curious. 

   Camila doesn’t reply immediately, wiping her hands on the towel in her bag and putting the suncream with her own for when she needs to reapply it to Alba’s skin.

   “Yes. A long time ago. But things are different now. People change.”

   She gets to her feet and picks up her bag.

   “Oh,” Alba says, fiddling with the poncho, “Okay, Mama.”

   She reaches up and takes her mother’s hand.

   “I love you, though.”

   Camila smiles softly at her daughter. She was so precious and innocent. She worries for what the future may hold with this new Empire.

   “I love you more, Alla.” She replies, “Now let’s go to the beach.”

   She squeezes Alba’s hand and they both walk out of the room, the small girl’s giggles soon echoing in the hallway.

   Together they walk through the house and into the back garden. They go through the gate, stepping out onto the golden stand that led up to it. Luckily, the beach backed directly onto Camila’s holiday home. 

   Alba discards her shoes and Camila puts them in her bag as they walk down the sand and towards the others. A line of sunbeds are set up under a couple colourful umbrellas. Rex, Lena and Hunter are sat there with Tech, Echo and Hazel playing skittles a few metres away. Omega and Wrecker are already in the ocean, trying to persuade Tori to join them, the medic watching from the edge of the tide.

   The mother and daughter approach the sunbeds and Camila places her bag on the bed beside Rex. Alba removes her poncho, dumping it on the bed and running off to join Omega and Wrecker. Camila sits down and folds the poncho up.

   Across from her, Rex flicks through reports on his datapad with Lena putting suncream on Hunter’s back on the bed next to him. The female Captain wears a black one-piece swimsuit and Hunter sits in only his swimming bottoms, like Rex, Wrecker and Tech. Echo has a shirt on and over her bikini, Hazel seems to wear one too, though Camila is sure it is Tech’s. Tori wears a pair of knit shorts over her bikini pants, a pair of sunglasses on the bridge of her nose and she shakes her head at her eager boyfriend. Omega, just as eager, wears a red version of Alba’s swimsuit.

   Camila smiles at them before turning back to her beach bag. She pulls out a deflated beach ball and begins to unfold it. As she begins to blow it up, she spots Rex looking up at her. She turns her head to him and raises an eyebrow. He smiles and looks over at their daughter.

   “She seems to be enjoying herself.” He remarks.

   “She loves the water.” Camila replies, her voice slightly scratchy from blowing up the ball. The Senator frowns at what little progress she’s made, regretting leaving the pump back at the house.

   “Do you want help with that?” Rex asks, nodding at the ball.

   “Nope.” 

   He fights the urge to roll his eyes and he returns to scrolling through his datapad. 

   Camila continues to try and blow it up, her progress slow and small. After a couple minutes, Rex sighs quietly and looks up at her. She’s frowning deeply as she fiddles with the clasp, her lips wrapped around it.

   He sits up, placing his datapad down and moving to the edge of the bed.

   “Mila…”

   “I can do it.”

   “I don’t doubt that. But you look to be struggling a bit. So let me help you.” Rex holds his hands out, “You don’t have to do everything yourself.”

   Camila pulls away from the ball, letting out a defeated sigh. She covers it up with a roll of eyes and reluctantly hands it to him. His fingers replace hers on the seal, brushing against each other as they do so. Rex shoots her a grin as he lifts it to his lips and begins blowing it up. Much quicker than she was doing.

   She rolls her eyes again and pulls out her book, leaning against the back of the sunbed and pulling her sunglasses down from the top of her head. A few minutes later, Rex gets up, ball in hand, and begins to walk down to the water. 

   As she watches him, she hears a chuckle. Turning her head, she spots Lena and Hunter sharing a knowing smirk as the agent moves to sit in front of her boyfriend.

   “What’s so funny?” Camila asks, resting a book against where her dress had ridden up to expose her bare thigh.

   “You two are very oblivious.” Lena states, visibly relaxing as Hunter rubs suncream against her upper back.

   “To what?”

   “The sexual tension between you two is painfully obvious, Mila.” The Captain says with a small smile. 

   Camila frowns, “What sexual tension?!”

   Hunter snorts as Lena grins,

   “I thought it was only clones who were oblivious to feelings and flirting.”

   Hunter’s smile turns into a frown, “Hey!”

   “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Camila replies, looking back at her book, “You’re mistaken.”

   “I doubt that.” Lena says, “I’m rarely ever wrong, Mila. And I know that look.”

   “What look? There’s a look?!” Camila stares at her, incredulously and Lena chuckles.

   “He’s trying, Mila. You can’t hold a grudge against him forever. And I know you don’t want to because deep down I know you’ve already forgiven him.” She turns to face the Senator with a gentle look, “I can see it on your face. You need to accept that. You can’t hate him forever! Or pretend too.”

   Camila sighs, looking towards the water. Rex had been dragged into trying to persuade Tori into the water.

   “I don’t want to get hurt again.” She admits, quietly, her thoughts drifting to the seasons ball.

   “I know you don’t,” Lena says, sitting down on Rex’s sunbed, “But every time he leaves to go on a mission, there’s a high chance he may never come back. His job is risky, especially for a clone. You don’t want something to happen and you never tell him that you forgive him. That would break you even more.”

   The Senator frowns, looking down. She knows Lena’s right, she’s rarely ever wrong. She had her reasons not to forgive him but the risks were high and like Lena pointed out, deep down she knew she forgave him a long time ago. 

   Camila lets out a soft sigh, not knowing to say.

   “Just think about it. The good tends to outweigh the bad, Mila.”

 

 

 

 

Notes:

a bit of a short chapter today! but here you go. I know it's been a while but updates won't be very often until after xmas.

alba's getting curious and even she can see what's going on between mila and rex...
also a little mila and rex crumb there ( nickname is now bluemoon )
and lena is speaking facts as always!

hope you all enjoyed this chapter. will probs do a double update. we're so close to my fav chap ( so far ) anyways!!!!

Chapter 17: rockpools

Summary:

as the trip comes to an end, the group visit the rockpools...

 

interdum habes ut det eis facultas intelligendi quid vis  — sometimes you’ve got to give them a chance to understand what you want

         The week goes fairly quickly with the group finding themselves occupied with games, beach trips, hours in the pool, hikes in the countryside and even a games night. It was the most relaxed the Batch seemed to be in a while and Camila was happy that they were so comfortable in her environment and with her, Alba and Rex. 

   The morning before they head back to the palace, Lena, Hunter, Hazel and Echo all join Camila in the living room just after breakfast. 

   “We just think that Rex deserves to spend Alba’s birthday without worrying about us, and so do you.” Lena is saying.

   “That and we have to be getting back to Cid. We need the credits.” Echo adds.

   Camila smiles gently at them, “You’d be more than welcome to stay but if you wish to go then i’m not stopping you. Though, I'm happy to give you some credits to get you started in a life away from being a mercenary.”

   Hunter shakes his head, “We don’t wish to take your money, Mila. We’ll work for it. We don’t wish to burden you.”

   “You are far from a burden, sergeant.” Camila chuckles.

   “Thank you for letting us stay with you for the past month. It’s been greatly appreciated.” Lena thanks and Camila squeezes her hand.

   “You’re welcome anytime. And my emergency channel is always open so feel free to call, should you need help. I won’t hesitate to be there.” 

   “We know.” Hazel says, smiling at her sister.

   “But please, stay for a bit when we get back to the palace. I’m sure there’s no rush to get back to Ord Mantell.” Camila says, standing up. The others follow suit.

   “Of course.” Echo says.

 

        Later on, the group wander through the market in the local village, browsing the stalls of clothing, jewellery, food and more.

   Camila looks at a stand selling bracelets, explaining to Alba what the different charms mean. On the other side of the street, Astoria, Hazel and Echo watch them.

   “Rex has barely taken his eyes off her all week.” Echo tells them as he looks at meilooruns. 

   “I know. I don't know why they don’t just kiss or something.” Astoria agrees.

   “Well, Lena spoke to her the other day at the beach but I haven’t seen any improvements.” Echo hands some credits over to the lady running the stall and places a couple meilooruns into Astoria’s bag.

   “She’s very stubborn.” Hazel tells them as they begin to slowly walk down their side of the street, “And she knows how to hold a grudge. But I know my sister. She’s already forgiven him; she just doesn’t know that she’s forgiven him.”

   “That’s confusing.” Echo remarks and Astoria hums.

   “They’re bloody confusing,” Hazel states, “But give it time. Rex is still in love with her and she told me that he’s told her that but it’ll be a while before she actually kisses him.”

   “Knowing her it’ll be random and she’ll think she regrets it,” Echo adds and the girls nod in agreement.

 

   “That’s a birthstone, Alla.” Camila explains, “You’re birthstone, actually.”

   “Oh, oh, oh! Can I have it, please, Mama?” Alba asks, clutching the white bracelet with a ruby gem attached.

   “Alright then.” Camila says with a smile, “But I’m not buying you anything else today. It’s your birthday in two days.”

   Alba nods, eagerly, and Camila buys the bracelet, handing over a handful of credits. She then crouches down in front of her daughter and puts it on Alba’s wrist.

   Alba grins and kisses her mother’s cheek, thanking her, before running over to Rex.

   “Daddy, look!” 

   Rex crouches down to her level as Alba holds up her wrist. 

   Camila watches them for a second before walking away. 

   They spend the rest of the morning at the market and eat lunch in a cute little restaurant that Astoria and Lena had found. 

 

           After a short walk back to the house, Camila takes them to the rock pools and enclosed beach that she had yet to show them.

   “Wow! This place is so cute, Mila!” Hazel says as they walk down the golden sand.

   “I know. I forgot it was here until I stumbled across it yesterday.”

   “You went out yesterday?” Hazel asks.

   Camila nods, “In the evening. It was to tire Alba out so she would go to sleep.”

   They lay out picnic blankets and sit down on the sand. Alba and Omega run over to Camila and drag her away to the rock pools.

   “Oh, look, there’s a crab in that one.” Camila points, crouching down. Alba dips her net in the pool as Omega holds a bucket of water.

   “We already have a few fish in shells.” Omega tells her and Camila nods.

   “That’s great guys. We should find a couple more crabs so that crab isn’t alone.”

   “Yeah, he needs friends.” Alba agrees and they go to the next pool. 

   Camila walks next to them, glancing in the pools.

   “Found one!” Omega exclaims and Camila and Alba go to join her. The youngest uses her net to catch it.

   “Try picking it up.” Camila prompts, reaching into the net herself and picking up the crab.

   “That’s gross, Mama.” Alba remarks.

   “It won’t hurt you, Alla.” Camila reassures as Omega gently takes the crab out her palm and places it on her own.

   “It doesn’t hurt, Alba.” Omega says, “You can stroke it, see?” The clone runs a finger over the crab’s shell.

   Alba frowns and reaches out to do the same. In doing so, she slips slightly and grabs onto Omega. Who then drops the crab and spills water over the two. Camila steadies them both as they scream, causing the Senator to laugh.

   “You’re fine, girls.” She chuckles.

   “Where did he go?!” Omega begins to look around.

   “That was scary.” Alba says.

   “You barely slipped, Alba.” Camila tells her.

   “Still!” Alba holds up her hand and exclaims dramatically, “I could have died!”

   Camila chuckles again and shakes her head, “No, you couldn’t.”

   “What’s going on?” A voice calls behind them. 

   The three turn around to see Rex standing there in only his swim shorts.

   “Nothing happened.” Camila says, quickly diverting her eyes away from Rex’s chest.

   “I almost died, Daddy!” Alba exclaims, dramatically.

   “No you didn’t.” Camila rolls her eyes.

   “I was holding a crab and she slipped a bit when going to stroke it.” Omega explains, “And now I've lost the crab.”

   “Are you okay, though?” Rex asks, walking over to them.

   “I’m fine now!” Alba reassures, rolling her eyes dramatically.

   “You’re so dramatic.” Omega says and Alba grins.

   “It’s a clone thing. She gets it from her uncles.” Camila explains, “That’s from spending too much time with Wolffe and Echo.”

   “They are very dramatic.” Omega agrees.

   “Hey! Was that dig at me?” Rex asks, looking at his ex girlfriend.

   “Might’ve been.” Camila shrugs with a smirk.

   Rex hums and squints, playfully.

   “Careful. If the wind changes, you’re stuck looking like that.” Camila remarks.

   “As opposed to my usual handsomeness?” 

   The Senator rolls her eyes, “Big egos are also a clone thing.”

   “Ouch.” He mutters, jokingly.

   Camila crouches down beside another pool and gently begins to move some seaweed.

   “What have you got, girls?” Rex asks and Omega holds the bucket up to her brother.

   “Some shrimp, a crab—“ She begins.

   “—and fish in shells.” Alba interrupts.

   “Snails?” Rex questions.

   “But in water!” Alba replies, her eyes wide.

   “That’s possible?”

   The girls shrug.

   “Apparently.” Omega says.

   “Here’s another one.” Camila stands, a crab in her hand.

   “Put it in before we lose it!” Omega insists and holds out the bucket.

   The two girls watch intently as Camila carefully drops the crab into the water.

   The four of them all watch as it wanders over to the other crab.

   “I think they need names.” Camila says.

   “Yes.” Alba agrees, “That one should be Dotty because they have dots on their back.”

   “Good idea.” Rex says as Camila nods in agreement, “Omega?”

   Omega hums as she watches the other crab, “Apple. Because it’s red with bits of yellow and green.”

   “Ooo, that’s a good one!” Alba says.

   “Dotty and Apple. Sounds amazing!” Camila nods and smiles.

   “They’re lesbians.” Alba states.

   “Oh—Okay.” Camila chuckles slightly, “Both girls, then?”

   “Dotty and Apple are girls names, so yes.” Alba replies as Omega nods in agreement.

   “Great.” Rex says.

   “I think Apple likes boys and girls,” Omega says, “Like Kaya and Hazel.”

   “Cool—“ Camila begins.

   “Auntie Hazel likes boys and girls?” Alba asks, “But she’s always been with Uncle Tech.”

   “Yeah. She loves him but she told me she once dated a girl.” Omega explains.

   The two adults share a look, holding back the urge to laugh.

   “Oh, okay.”

   “Well, that was an interesting conversation.” Rex says, quietly as the two girls walk over to the next pool.

   “Saved us the job of explaining.” Camila replies and Rex nods in agreement.

   They then both follow the two, laughing to themselves.

 

 

Notes:

bit of a longer chapter but another one of fluff!!

i love the group all together especially when the batch are scheming and chatting about rex and mila. it's hilarious.
cute little family moments between the three are my fav to write. also the end at the rockpools is so cute. i loved writing this. alba and omega's idea that the crabs are turtles is actually adorable. also, rex and mila crumbs. they're being 'civil' for the children and it's actually so sweet.

here's your double update. brace yourself for the next chapter. it's a bit wild.

 

might do a triple update....

Chapter 18: the pool

Summary:

okay i had to do a triple update...

i'm just going to wait so you can read what happens ( no comment at the moment ) . . .

 

est sicut ballerina, sine fine insano in musica archa cum melodiam rumpitur  — she’s like a ballerina, endlessly twirling in a music box with a broken melody

     It was almost midnight by the time the others had gone to bed. Camila quietly changes into her black bikini and grabs a towel from her cupboard, careful not to disturb Alba sleeping in her bed. 

   There wasn’t enough room for all of them so Echo and Rex were sharing Alba’s room, meaning Alba is with her mother. The others had coupled up, with Omega going with Lena and Hunter. The house had less room than her quarters at the palace.

   The Senator slips out of the bedroom and downstairs to the kitchen. The moonlight streams through the windows, lighting up the kitchen, meaning she didn’t have to turn the lights on. 

   She places the towel on the table and grabs the key, opening the patio doors. Camila steps out and attaches one of the doors to the wall before going back inside. 

   Beside the door sits an electrical box and Camila opens it up and turns the pool lights on. 

   She then turns back and goes over to the sink. She grabs a glass, ice from the freezer and a can of soft punch from the fridge. She places the ice in the glass and pours the punch over the top. She then grabs a straw from one of the draws and takes a sip before tidying away.

   With the drink and her towel in hand, she quietly walks out onto the patio. Camila places the towel beside the pool, her drink next to it, and then walks over to the steps.

   Large, circular steps lead into the pool, more submerged in the water the further down you go.

   She gasps when the cold water hits her legs but braces it as she goes further in, giggling to herself.

   She plunges forward, her head and shoulders disappearing below the water’s surface, followed by the rest of her body. 

   Camila swims a couple laps of the pool before stopping to wipe her face with her towel. The water felt amazing. It was just what she needed.

   Steps to her left draw her attention back to the kitchen doors. Rex stands there, his own towel in hand, as he walks out with only his swim shorts on. Seems like they have the same idea.

   “Hey.” He greets putting his towel on one of the sunbeds.

   Camila nods at him before turning and paddling to the other end of the pool.

   A splash behind her indicates Rex diving in and she turns around to spot him heading towards her. 

   With a roll of her eyes, she swims away from him in the opposite direction. 

   They continue to do this until she stops at the end of the pool with a small smile on her face as she attempts to catch her breath. 

   He swims up beside her, matching her smile.

   “Why are you running, Mila?” He asks, jokingly.

   “Maybe I didn’t want to face you.” She replies, grinning at him, “Maybe I didn’t want to talk.”

   “We’re talking now, aren’t we?”

   She hums and turns away, looking back up at the house. Camila rests her elbows on the side of the pool and leans her head back slightly. Rex watches her as she does so.

   “Why don’t you want to talk to me?” He asks, turning to face the opposite direction to her. 

   She glances at him and sighs, “Because there’s a lot of things going through my mind right now and I don’t know which one to talk about.”

   “What sort of things?” His voice is soft and gentle.

   Camila drops one of her elbows from the wall and turns to look at him.

   “Us….. mostly…..”

   He frowns slightly, turning to her, “What do you mean?”

   Camila licks her lips as she thinks about how to explain, “Over the course of the last couple weeks, the guys have mentioned a few things to me. Mainly Echo and Lena.”

   Rex chuckles slightly, “Of course.”

   “It just made me think, that’s all.”

   He doesn’t reply for a second before quietly speaking, “What sort of things did they say?”

   Camila looks at him before turning around to look at the trees lining the garden. Small flowers dotted the branches, glowing slightly.

   “That I should give you a chance. That I should talk to you and consider what good will come if I ignore you.”

   Rex chuckles again.

   “You do enjoy ignoring me.”

   Camila lets out a small laugh, “It’s easy to ignore you.”

   “Ouch.” He mutters and they laugh again.

   A comforting silence falls between them.

   “So, are you?” Rex quietly questions.

   “Am I what?” Camila turns to face him, leaning an elbow on the side and the other gently gripping her own hand.

   “Going to give me a chance.”

   She doesn’t say anything, looking down into the water as her painted toenails trace the outline of one of the pool lights. She then looks up at him, through her lashes.

   “Do you want me too?”  

   He leans closer, his hand hovering nervously by her side.

   “Yeah. I do.” He replies, gently.

   Camila licks her dry lips, straightening as Rex leans closer to her. His eyes dart down to her lips as she cautiously reaches her hand up to his neck.

   “Rex…” 

   Her voice is quiet and unsure. Their faces are so close, their noses almost touching.

   “Do you trust me?” 

   She contemplates the question for a second before finally giving into the tugs of her heart, “Yes.”

   As soon as the soft word leaves her lips, he leans in and kisses her, gently. She lets him, not really moving as he pulls away slightly.

   Her hand settles on his neck as she pulls him back towards her, kissing him again. He kisses back eagerly, gripping her waist and pulling her even closer. Her other hand moves from the side, gripping his other forearm before moving up to his chest. His other hand grips her jaw, the kiss slowly becoming heated.

   It’s like the spark from all those years ago is reignited as they kiss, once again clicking together like puzzle pieces. She’s missed this, she’s missed them. All of this, him, them together. She’s never thought she’d been in this position again, kissing him, holding him close to her. 

   It’s almost surreal.

   It’s almost too much for her.

   Camila reaches up onto her tiptoes as Rex deepens the kiss. Maybe giving him another chance wasn’t such a bad idea.

 

 

Notes:

*inhales* AHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HOLY. EFFING. SHIT!!!

I love this chapter so much. It is short but it's just them. That kiss was AHHHAHABSKASKDALSHDAHSDKJA
I love them so much, if you can't tell. Everything about this is just so AHASHUAHSOAHSHA

Anyways, moving on ( only briefly ), hope you enjoyed this chap. Had to do a triple update because I couldn't keep gatekeeping this chapter. I needed opinions.
Also, this is the end of season one or act one, heading into season two with Alba's birthday ( may have to wait a while because you know me an updates ).
This chapter really makes me want to write an AU where they never break up ( among other things ) because while they're adorable, they're also incredibly hot.
ALSO, fyi I have casted on wattpad, Camila Ri'vane is played by NINA DOBREV in case you were wondering. HOT HOT HOT!

I need to stop rambling but there's so much I can say about this chapter and this book but I don't want to spoil anything.

Hope you enjoyed.
See you again in the next 7-12 business days :))

Chapter 19: goodbye

Summary:

the group return to home and rex and mila prep for alba's birthday...

 

 

redeo. sicut umbra, sicut somnium  – come back. even as a shadow, even as a dream

 

 

        The transport glides through the air, away from the holiday home. It is a two hour flight back to the palace and Camila isn’t prepared to face the questions that her sister looked ready to pile on her. Nor is she ready to face Rex. As soon as the Batch leaves, it will be three of them again and Rex will want to talk about last night.

   Oh, last night. It was haunting her. She didn’t get much sleep when she returned to her bedroom, a small smile gracing her lips as her head remained in the pool. She could barely look at him that morning during breakfast and she knew the others noticed. Because when she did look at him, when he wasn’t looking at her, she would smile softly at him and then herself when she looked away. 

   It’s not that she regretted it, because she sure as hell didn’t, she just wasn’t sure what it ment. For them. For her. For Alba. It was complicated and she was confused. And she wasn’t prepared for what happened and what may happen if she confronted the situation. 

   So, essentially, she plans to avoid talking about it for as long as she can.

   Now she sits with Inej, her handmaiden catching her up on everything that’s going on in the senate, as the two work through Camila’s pile of paperwork. Maybe holiday during the rise of the Empire wasn’t the best of ideas. Oh well.

 

     Across from her, Alba sits with Rex and Echo.

   “Daddy.” Alba drags his name out as she looks up at him.

   “Yes?” He replies in the same way, smiling at her.

   “What happened between you and Mama?” She asks.

   Echo looks up, curious as well.

   “What- What do you mean?” He frowns, his eyes darting to look at the Senator before returning to their daughter, unsure what Camila might have said to the girl.

   “Yesterday.” She says, “Mama was weird and smily when she woke me up this morning but she’s not spoken to you.”

   “You’re very smart for your age, Alba.” Rex states and the young girl giggles.

   “What happened, daddy?” She persists.

   “I don’t know what you mean.”

   “Yes, you do.” Echo says, chuckling quietly.

   “How about you ask her?” Rex suggests.

   “Why can’t you tell us?” Alba asks with a frown.

   “Because I haven’t…” He trails off for a second, glancing at Camila.

   “So something did happen? Interesting.” Echo says with a grin, gently nudging Alba. The four year old giggles.

   “Quiet, you two. Enough questions.” Rex teases, playfully rolling his eyes.

   Alba giggles again as Echo continues to grin. The young girl then gets up and goes over to talk to Omega, pulling the blonde girl away from Hunter and Lena. 

   “You realise your blushing, right?” Echo tells his brother and the Captain elbows his side. Echo laughs as Rex hisses at him to shut up.

 

   Saying goodbye to the Batch after spending a month with them was hard to do. Alba wasn’t at all willing to part with them, especially with Omega, and Camila wasn’t overly happy to allow her sister to leave after what happened with the Empire.

   “You better comm me more often than you used to.” Camila tells her sister as she hugs her goodbye.

   “Goes for you too, Mila.” Hazel replies, smiling.

   “Take care of yourselves.” Rex says as the sisters part and the Batch come together.

   “You too.” Echo replies as Rex and Hunter shake hands.

   “Will you message?” Alba asks Omega, gripping onto her mother’s hand.

   “I promise.” Omega grins.

   The three wave goodbye as the Batch boards the Marauder.

   “You’ll see them again, Alla.” Camila reassures.

   “You sure?” Alba replies.

   “Of course.” Rex confirms and the young girl nods in acceptance.

   “Okay.”

 

   Later that evening, after Alba has gone to bed, the parents are sitting in the living room, prepping for their daughter’s birthday. 

   Camila is blowing up balloons as Rex hangs ‘Happy Birthday’ bunting over the living area.

   “How many do you think we need?” She asks as she finishes blowing up the tenth balloon that evening.

   “I think that’s enough.” Rex replies, glancing down. 

   The Senator nods, moving to pick up the confetti. She drapes it over the coffee table and the presents piled there, some on the floor and on the small tables beside the couches.

   As she finishes, Rex comes back from where he was putting up bunting in the kitchen. 

   “Looks good.” He remarks.

   “Yeah?”

   “Mhm.” He walks over to her and grabs the final banner.

   “Are you ready to do her room?” 

   “Yep.” She shoots him a small smile before grabbing the last couple balloons. 

   The two quietly walk down the hall and slip into Alba’s room. The young girl is curled up around her teddies, her dress for tomorrow laid out on a chair beside the bed. Rex begins to hang the birthday banner over the door as Camila ties two balloons to the end of the bed and two to the chair. She then places a little wrapped box on the young girl's bedside table, before joining Rex out in the hall.

   He grins at her and the two quietly walk back into the living room.

   As they begin to tidy away, Rex decides to address the elephant in the room.

   “So, are we going to talk about it?” 

   Camila falters in her movements for a second before going back to stuffing away the unused balloons.

   “Talk about what?” She asks, dismissively.

   She piles up the leftover supplies on the couch.

   “You know what, Mila.” Rex says, “Last night. At the pool.”

   Camila shakes her head, not wanting to talk about it.

   “Mila, please. You can’t just avoid it. You can’t… shut me out!” He walks over to her, stopping her from walking away. 

   “I don’t want to talk about it, Rex.” Camila tells him, avoiding eye contact.

   He steps closer so they're almost inches away, “We kissed, Mila. We have to talk about these things!”

   “I know we kissed, Rex.” Camila replies, “But I… I don’t…” She trails off, her eyes darting around the room, still refusing to look at him.

   He places a hand on her shoulder, and her eyes flicker as she hesitates to look at him.

   “Do you regret it?” He asks, his voice low.

   “Rex…” She shakes her head, attempting to move away.

   “Do. You. Regret it?” His hand comes up to her jaw, turning her head to look at him.

   She moves her eyes from the ground and up to his face, slow, unsure.

   “No…” Her reply is quiet, her voice cracking ever so slightly.

   “Then why won’t you let me in?”

   Her eyes dart between his, “Because I’m scared. Scared of what it may mean.” 

   His eyes soften, a gentle smile easing its way onto his lips.

   “It may not be a bad thing.” He says, almost whispering.

   “You don’t know that.” She replies, her voice at the same level.

   He doesn’t reply for a second, his thumb gently stroking against the side of her face.

   “Yeah, I do.” He states, “I’m not abandoning you two again. Never again. And I’m so sorry that I did before. But you have to trust me.”

   His other hand comes up to the other side of her face as her eyes fill with tears.

   “Mila…”

   She doesn’t say anything, just stares at him.

   “I’m sorry, Rex.” She says after a while, her hands coming up to hold his wrists, “I can’t do this now.”

   She pulls his hands away from her face and steps back. She then grabs the pile of stuff off the couch.

   “Mila…”

   She shakes her head and begins to walk back to her room.

   “When then?” He calls after her.

   “I don’t know.” She replies, shaking her head again, trying to stop the tears from coming back.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Hey guys! Feb 1st and i thought i might post another chapter. the aftermath of the pool!
It may be a while to another chapter as I haven't been writing much and I don't want to post all the chapters ive already written.
Mila and Rex are so precious to me, i love them so much, but it's going to be a long while. this is a slow burn.

hope you are all enjoyed this chap!!

Chapter 20: i'm still sorry

Summary:

Alba's birthday morning...

illa possedi vindemia cor et pulchram mentem – she's got a vintage heart and a beautiful mind

 

        The following morning, Camila's awake and up before Alba. She slips out of her room, party popper in hand, and quietly makes her way down the dimly lit corridor.

   She gently opens Alba's door, peering round and noticing her still asleep. With a small smile, she steps inside and walks over to the window. Camila opens up the blinds, allowing the sunlight to stream in a bit before walking over to the bed.

   "Alla..." She gently nudges Alba, "Alla, wake up."

   The young girl mumbles as Camila continues to whisper to her.

   As she finally begins to wake up and her eyes start to open, Camila stands up.

   "Happy Birthday, baby." She says, before popping the party popper.

   Alba sits up in bed almost immediately, laughing loudly as the confetti covers the light pink sheets.

   "It's my birthday!" She squeals, jumping up onto the bed and hugging her mother.

   "I know, Alla!" She replies with a grin.

   Alba lets go of her mother and jumps off the bed.

   "I'm gonna go wake Daddy." She says and runs out of the room.

   Camila is quick to follow, not entirely sure if he wanted to be woken up so early in the morning.

   Alba glances back at her mother before quietly opening the door to Rex's room. Camila bites back the urge to laugh as she quickens her pace. She hesitates when she reaches Rex's door, her hand hovering over the handle.

   "Daddy, Daddy!" She hears Alba squeal, followed by the squeak of the bed and a tired groan.

   Camila pushes all thoughts out of head as she pushes open the door and pops her head in.

   "Alla!" She chastises, upon spotting the young girl jumping up and down on the bed.

   Rex had kept the room neat with his bag on the chair by the window. Everything else had been put in there by Mila herself as it was a guest room. Three paintings of flowers are on one wall with the double bed below. The dresser sits on the neighbouring wall, a painting of Camila and Alba hanging over it. The ceiling to floor windows had their blinds closed with small trickles of light slipping through the gaps.

   Alba giggles as Rex rolls over. He grabs her around the waist and pulls her down to him.

   "Come here, birthday girl." He says with a grin, the young girl letting out a squeal as she falls down beside him.

   Camila smiles at them and leans against the door frame as Rex tickles their daughter's sides. Alba squeals out for him to stop, laughing loudly.

   "Mama, Mama, help!" She calls as Rex continues to tickle her, not letting her go, "Mama, Mama!"

   Alba continues to giggle as she calls out to her to help, her cries for him to stop clearly not working. Camila shakes her head but is eventually persuaded and walks over. She bites her lip as she approaches the side of the bed.

   "You need my help?" She asks. She reaches her hands out as if to pick Alba up but tickles her armpits instead.

   "No, Mama! Help, not tickle!" Alba says, with a giggle.

   "I'm not going to let her." Rex declares as he sits up and wraps his other hand around Camila. Her eyes widen as he brings her down between them, pulling her against his bare torso.

   "Rex!" She scolds, holding his arm as he laughs loudly. Alba giggles and kneels up, laying herself over both of them. Their arms come up to wrap around her as Camila presses kisses on the young girl's face, all of them laughing.

   Their laughs begin to ease and Camila rests her head back on the other pillow, Rex's arm still around her waist.

   "Happy Birthday, adi'ka." Rex says, kissing Alba's forehead.

   The young girl holds up the wrapped box Camila had left on her bedside.

   "Look what Mama put on the table next to my bed." She says, kneeling between them and holding it up to Rex.

   "Oh yeah." He says, "You gonna open it?"

   "Yeah." She sits down, her legs stretching out between them. She begins to open it and Camila takes the opportunity to glance at Rex. She ignores the fact he's not wearing a t-shirt, he never does in bed, and takes notice of the light bags under his eyes.

   She looks back at Alba, the young girl working her way through the tissue paper.

   "Did you sleep at all last night?" She asks, quietly.

   "What do you mean?" He replies, just as quiet as he removes his arm from her waist and brings it up to lean on it and face them both.

   "You look exhausted." She replies, pulling herself up to rest on her elbows.

   Rex sighs, "It doesn't matter."

   Camila looks at him, an unreadable look on her face.

   Alba gasps as she opens the box that had been wrapped up.

   "Mama! It's so pretty." She awes, pulling out a small silver bracelet with a couple charms attached. Camila smiles at her as she shows Rex.

   "It's got different charms on it, as well!" She says, looking at them. Camila had attached three different charms, each important to Alba. One was her birthstone, the other the Ri'vane family crest and the last a spanner shaped one, symbolising her love for mechanical things.

   "Thank you." She wraps her arms around Camila's neck and Camila hugs her back.

   "You're welcome, baby. Happy birthday!"

   Alba grins as Camila puts it around the newly five year old's wrist. She then jumps up onto her feet.

   "I want to open more." She squeals, before jumping off the bed and running out of the room.

   "Well, she's very excited." Rex says, laying back down.

   Camila nods, looking over at him, "Brace yourself. It's only going to get worse. Especially since she's having a party this afternoon."

   Rex lets out a playful groan as Camila laughs. He turns his head and smiles at her, clearly admiring her. Camila watches him back for a second, before turning to look at the sun streaming through the blinds.

   "Did you sleep last night?" She repeats her question from before.

   "Some." Rex replies after a few seconds, sitting up. Camila looks at him, sympathetically.

   "Nightmares?" She asks, quietly.

   He glances back at her, his smile and previous happiness vanishing under a sad and reminiscent expression. Camila sits up and moves to kneel beside him. She places a soothing hand on his bare shoulder.

   "I'm so sorry you went through all that, Rex." She says quietly, remembering him telling her about everything that had happened since the last time she'd seen him during the war.

   "It's not your fault. There's nothing you can do about it now." He replies.

   "I know. But I'm still sorry you lost so many brothers and that I couldn't support you." She says, a sad smile replacing her previously happy one.

   He looks at her, an unreadable expression on his face.

   "You had your reasons for not being there." He jokes slightly and she grins for a second.

   He smiles softly at her, "I'm sorry too. For not being here when you needed me."

   She matches his smile and moves her feet from under her so she's sat beside him.

   "You had your reasons." She repeats his words and he grins. She grins back and moves to rest her head against his shoulder. He lets her, resting his own on top of hers. They sit like that for a couple minutes, enjoying each other's company.

   "We should probably go before Alba comes back to look for us." Rex says, quietly and Camila hums in agreement. They pull away from each other and Camila gets to her feet.

   "Put a shirt on." She says, walking over to the door.

   "Oh and here I thought you enjoyed the view." He teases with a grin, getting up.

   She rolls her eyes and grins back at him before disappearing.

Notes:

i know it's been MONTHS!! It will likely be even longer because of GCSEs. I realised when I came on here than i posted chapter 19 in FEBRUARY. It is now May and I've written 42 chapters. Oops...
I've published more on wattpad than on here, but i've almost finished writing this book and i'm so excited!!!

enjoy some family fluff. this is such a cute ACT! Welcome to Act Two!

Chapter 21: happy birthday

Summary:

Alba's birthday! Mila and Rex's inner conflicts...

ego te servabo unum pagina blank si reversus fueris – i'll keep one blank page in case you come back

 

 

        Camila and Alba, still in their nightgowns, are choosing which present Alba's to open first when Rex comes in, now wearing a shirt and pants.

   He settles onto the sofa beside Alba as Camila sits on the other side of their daughter, handing the young girl her first present.

   "This one first." She says, reaching to the arm of the chair and grabbing the dressing gown that lies there. She pulls it on as Alba unwraps the gift.

   The young girl gasps as she pulls away the tissue paper, revealing a jumpsuit like the one she saw mechanics wear while fixing the ships in the hanger. A place she enjoyed going.

   "Thank you, thank you, thank you." She squeals, pulling her parents into a hug each.

   "That's okay, Adi'ika."

   "You're welcome, Alla." They both say before grabbing the next present.

   The rest of the morning is spent with opening presents and eating Alba's birthday brunch. Camila is changed and waiting for Alba when she receives a call. She steps into her office to take it, grinning slightly as a live hologram of her sister appears.

   "Mila! I was hoping you'd call me last night." Hazel says, raising an unimpressed eyebrow.

   "Wow. Hello to you too." Camila replies, copying her sister's raised eyebrow.

   Hazel rolls her eyes and leans closer, "Hello! Why didn't you call me?!"

   "Because I'd just seen you a few hours before... and spent a month with you!" Camila replies, resting the disk on her desk and crossing her arms with a faint smirk.

   "That's hilarious." She says, dryly, before raising her voice, "You clearly had something to tell me!"

   Camila frowns, glancing briefly back at the door, "What are you talking about?"

   "Erm, hello!" Astoria appears beside Hazel with a 'mom' like look on her face, "Something has clearly happened between you and Rex!"

   "Yeah, and we're curious." Lena adds, coming to Hazel's other side.

   The three all match Camila's crossed arms and stare at her curiously. She stares back, not wanting to give in yet before sighing and dropping her hands to her side.

   "Ugh, fine!" She says, pulling the disk to the other side of her desk and sitting down at the chair.

   "Thank you." Hazel rolls her eyes again in exasperation.

   "Nothing major happened...!" Camila says, waving her hands.

   "Yeah right." Lena retorts.

   "The sexual tension and affectionate mini smiles were almost unbearable." Astoria adds, tilting her head as she waits.

   "What tension? And there weren't any smiles." The Senator denies and the three holograms roll their eyes simultaneously.

   "Er... we were all sitting at the same table, in the same house and on the same frickin' ship!" Hazel almost shouts, causing Lena to nudge her with a small smile.

   Camila doesn't answer and Astoria shoots the girls a pointed look.

   "Bitch, come on. We don't have all night!" Hazel says, throwing up her hands.

   "Yeah, we have to go to work in a few hours." Lena agrees.

   "You're lucky Jay and Kaya aren't here to interrogate you." Astoria runs a hand through her dirty blond hair as she seems to settle in a seat beside Hazel. Knowing the seating arrangements on the Marauder, Camila could only guess they were on one of the bunks in the girls' rooms or sat on the floor somewhere.

   "You guys are being delusional. It's not a big of a deal!" Camila replies, with a shake of her head.

   "Not that big of a deal...?!" Hazel throws her hands in the air as Lena snorts.

   "Mila, hon, we're not blind." Astoria says.

   "Tell us what happened between you and Rex! Now!" Hazel demands.

   "Nothing much! We both went for a swim in the pool. I was down there and then he joined me and we ended up talking and..." She trails off, looking away from the three girls.

   "And what?" Lena asks with an expectant eyebrow raise.

   Camila looks at them, warily, "We...erm... kissed."

   She bites her lip as the three girls gawk at her. Astoria then grins before turning to the other two, "You all owe me so much money!"

   It's Camila's turn to gawk now as the other two groan.

   "You bet on us?!"

   "Of course we did!" Lena replies and the Senator rolls her eyes.

   "Doesn't matter about that! Have you guys talked about it?" Hazel asks and Camila grimaces slightly.

   "Well, he tried last night but I... I didn't really let him."

   The three girls groan in annoyance as Camila bites back the random urge to chuckle.

   "Of course you didn't." Hazel says.

   "Mila, you have to talk to him!" Lena calls over the holo and Camila sighs in defeat.

   "Yeah, I know. I just... I can't. I don't know what to say and I don't know if I want things to... I don't know, happen between us! You know?" She defends and they all roll their eyes.

   "You two are incredibly stupid, you know that?" Astoria states.

   "Yeah, thanks." Camila nods, shooting them a deadpan look.

   They grin back at her.

   "Fine. Okay, I'll think about it, but today is Alba's day and I don't want to spoil it with mine and Rex's problems." Camila says.

   "Please, that little girl has been trying to get you two together for weeks." Hazel replies.

   "Of course she has," Camila mutters and rolls her eyes, "Do you want to talk to her or not?"

   The three of them nod and Camila gets up. She sees the three walk into the cockpit of the Marauder and Omega soon appears as well.

   "Alla!" Camila calls as she walks back over to the couch. She hands the disk to Alba as the young girl's face lights up.

   "Auntie Hazel! Auntie Lena! Auntie Tori! 'Mega!" Alba squeals as she grins at her aunts and friend - or aunt... 

   Camila begins to clear away the presents scattered across the table and sofas. Rex is nowhere to be seen.

   "Hey, bear. Happy birthday!" Hazel says as they all grant the young girl a happy birthday.

   A few hours later, Camila watches as Alba laughs and plays with her friends, the skirt of her new summer dress billowing around her as she runs. The mother smiles softly, clashing her hands in front of her.

   "She looks like she's having fun." Rex comes up beside her and she nods.

   They watch them before Camila turns back to the table beside her and begins grabbing wrapped presents, placing them in a large bag beside it. Rex moves to help her.

   "She's happier when you're here." Camila says, "Laughs more." She sends him a soft smile.

   He nods, mimicking her smile as she returns to the presents.

   As they finish, Rex places the last of them in the bag beside her.

   "Thank you." She says quietly, glancing up at him. He stares at her as she turns and walks over to the children.

   He watches as she crouches down, all of them crowding around her. She talks to them with a warm smile on her face, pulling one of them into her side with a laugh.

   "There's that look again." A voice sounds from beside him and Rex's head turns to them.

   "You're smiling a love-sick idiot." Inej informs him, clasping her hands together.

   He hadn't even realised he was smiling.

   "What look?" He asks, innocently.

   "The one that shows how much you love and care for her." She says.

   He releases a small breath, going back to watch Camila and the children.

   "It can't happen." He admits, quietly, "Me and her. I can't do that to her.... not when she doesn't trust me anyway."

   Inej doesn't say anything, "She trusts you more than you think. She just doesn't know how far to go."

   He frowns slightly, "What do you—?"

   When he turns to look at her, she's no longer there. He sighs, and turns back to the group as they begin to scatter and Camila gets to her feet.

   Does she trust him? He thinks to himself, Could something happen again?

Notes:

Men are so fucking confusing!
Just realised that uploading this means ao3 and wattpad are at the same level with this book... oops

hope you enjoyed this chapter!
may be a while until i post again. I hope not but you never know...

Chapter 22: goddaughter

Summary:

Mila's hit with a drastic realisation on her way to Alderaan...

execrandum nomen meum, volentes mansi  –  cursing my name, wishing i stayed

           He was gone again. Another clone mission. A pang seemed to have settled over Camila, a strange tug of her heart strings every time she thought of him. Alba hadn't been happy when Rex had to leave after her birthday. Especially when he didn't say how long he'd be away. Camila couldn't think of anything to do in order to help her, instead encouraging her to go to school and her clubs while she delved herself into her work and the renovations of her family home.

   To say the house was coming along nicely would be an understatement. Camila had made massive progress with the house, knocking down walls, ordering furniture. It was rather old fashioned before and Camila had kept that idea, adding a slight modern touch to it though. It is almost done and she is proud of herself and her staff.

   Despite that, she now sat alone. Her ship was making its way to Alderaan and Alba had gone to sleep a couple hours ago, leaving Camila to her thoughts. Her leg jigs up and down as she sits on her bed, her mind racing. She tries to think of the upcoming visit and meeting but she can't focus on it. He is at the forefront of her mind, now she is alone.

   She fiddles with her comlink absentmindedly as she stares holes into the ground. They hadn't gotten around to talking about the kiss yet and it was slowly driving her insane. She knows that she was the one that had avoided it, like she had most of their pending conversations since he had returned into her life, but now, while she is alone, she wishes they could sort out what is going on between them. He won't leave her thoughts. Every single part of her wishes he is sat beside her but she knows that he's busy and she's the reason they're like they are.

   They were both at fault for what happened during the war and Camila had finally come to terms with that.

   Her lips part as she raises her head to look at the closet in front of her, further realisation dawning on her.

   She forgave him. And she missed him. After so long, hating him and being against him because of what happened she had finally changed that. He had changed that. Oh, how she wishes he was here right now.

   Camila drops the comm onto the bed and gets to her feet, feeling the ship exit hyperspace. The new realisation continues to cloud her thoughts as she grabs a large blue scarf from the closet and drapes it around her shoulders. She pulls on some shoes to match her blue, winter dress and slips out the room. She pulls the back of her scarf up and over her head, so it acts like a hood and joins Alba and Inej at the top of the ramp.

   The ship lands and Inej places a stabilising hand on the shoulders of the mother and daughter. Camila gives her a thankful smile as she lets go and the ramp begins to lower.

   "Please be on your best behaviour, Alla."

   "Yes, Mama." The young girl grips her mother's warm hands and together they descend the ramp, Inej and two guards following.

   Camila sends a small smile to the guards at the bottom of the ramp as they all make their way over to where Queen Breha Organa awaits. They stop in front of her and the three females all curtsy. Breha gives them a warm smile, allowing Camila to come forward and hug the Queen.

   "It's so good to see you." Breha says, squeezing the Senator.

   "And you."

   They pull apart, holding onto each other's forearms as they share smiles. They then let go and Breha grins at Alba.

   "Hello Alba."

   "Hi." Alba replies, slightly shy as she grips her mother's hand.

   "Come. You've arrived early. Leia woke up a few minutes ago." Breha gestures and the three, and their guards and handmaidens, make their way into the palace.

   "Bail is setting up the meeting but he'll be along in a minute." Breha tells them and Camila nods.

   "How have you all been?" Camila asks.

   "Alright. Leia is thriving as much as a nearly one year old can. Bail has been busy with work." Breha tells them.

   She then glances around before lowering her voice, "the Empire has been spreading its clutches. We can only remain unattached for so long. They already want to put an outpost here."

   Camila sighs, quietly, "Our Queen has the same worries. I have pro-empire and pro-separatists senators on my ass, seeking an alliance with Naravi IV. I don't know what to do."

   Breha shakes her head, "the Republic we knew has long fallen by now."

   They enter Leia's room, leaving their entourage outside.

   "Queen Elvira is just as worried. The Empire wishes to take over Naravi VII, so it has a mid rim outpost. She denied, claiming that she didn't want to involve her people. She's trying to go neutral." Camila tells her as they watch Alba coo over Leia.

   "We've been considering neutrality as well. But," Breha shrugs, "There is only so much we can do before the Empire is on us."

   They both fall silent as they watch their children.

   "I worry for them." Breha murmurs and Camila hums in agreement, "the Empire will affect their lives."

   "This Rebellion is not going to leave the meetings for a while. We'd talked about it before the end of the war but..." Camila trails off with a small sigh, "Palpatine and his Empire will be in power for a while, I fear."

   "Yes. Bail has the same thoughts."

   They fall quiet again before Breha exhales heavily, "Anyhow. You have a meeting about all that later, and Leia seeks attention."

   Camila smiles softly, "Yes. Are you joining us in the meeting?"

   "I don't think i'm allowed. But i'll have to see. I share many of your views." Breha grins, approaching Alba and the cot.

   "Hopefully." Camila says, ruffling Alba's hair as baby Leia peers up at them, babbling loudly.

   Camila smiles as Breha picks up her daughter.

   "Oh gods, she's grown so much!" Camila exclaims.

   "I thought babies didn't have hair." Alba remarks and the two women chuckle.

   "Some babies do, some don't." Camila tells her as Breha hands Leia to her.

   The Senator cradles the little princess and kneels down beside Alba, allowing her daughter to see her.

   "She's so tiny." Alba giggles, grinning down at Leia.

   Camila smiles, looking between the two before looking up at Breha.

   "She looks just like her parents." Camila states, and a knowing look passes between the two mothers.

   "Indeed she does." Breha replies and Camila smiles down at her goddaughter. She locks eyes with the brown-eyed baby and her smile droops slightly.

   Memories of Padmé and Anakin fill her head as she watches the babe. How she missed them. She knew they would have loved to have watched their children grow up. A twinge of sadness comes over her along with one of worry as she thinks of Leia's twin, Luke. She knew that he was with family, she just didn't know where. And she wishes she did. He had disappeared with Obi-Wan after the death of their parents. Camila wishes she had taken him in. At least then Luke and Leia would've been able to see each other every now and again. It also would've brought her a sense of comfort.

   Camila stands again and hands Leia back to Breha.

   "I want one." Alba says and Camila frowns, turning to her daughter.

   "What do you mean, Alla?"

   "I want a sister, Mama."

   Camila's eyes widen as her eyebrows raise impossibly high. Breha lets out a chuckle.

   "Really?" She asks, warily.

   "Yeah!" She grins at Leia as the baby is placed back in her cot.

   "Do you know how babies are made, Alla?"

   "Yeah. In your tummy, Mama." Alba says, picking up one of Leia's toys.

   "Have you told Daddy this idea?" Camila asks, glancing at a chuckling Breha.

   "Not yet." She replies, nonchalantly.

   Camila frowns, sending Breha an incredulous look.

   "Looks like you've got a long conversation ahead of you." Breha remarks and Camila lets out a heavy sigh.

   If only Padmé was here right now, she thinks to herself.

Notes:

So, Mila's realised she misses him! AHHHH
Also, LEIA!!! She's so cute!!
And Alba wants a sibling....

In my notes app, i've written up a timeline for this series but it's been changed so many times :(
Hope you enjoyed this :)

Chapter 23: you're deflecting

Summary:

Hazel talks some sense into Mila...

 

 

suo tempore dimittet homines qui dimiserunt te  –  it’s time to let go of people who have let go of you 

 

 

   “Tech did what?!” Camila’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise. She was not expecting that. 

   “Yeah! And he won too!” Hazel replies with an equally shocked laugh.

   “What did Hunter, Lena and Echo say?” 

   “We haven’t told them— Well, we told Echo and he wasn’t particularly happy but not surprised to be honest— but we haven’t told the other two.” 

   Camila shakes her head, still not believing that Tech participated in a race and won. Well, she’s not surprised he won but the fact that he willingly entered himself in the first place, is what surprised her.

   “Bit of a turn on really. It was hot.” Hazel says and Camila grimaces.

   “Didn’t need to know that, Haze.”

   She shrugs, a small smile playing on her lips. Camila softly smiles at the live holo of her sister. She really did love the genius clone. 

   “Enough about me though,” Hazel begins, “What’s up with you and Bear? And Rex?”

   “Not much. Rex had to leave after Alla’s birthday. And we went to Alderaan a few days ago.” Camila informs her, anxiously fiddling with her nails at the mention of Rex. She’s purposefully not thought much about him since her realisation but had been failing slightly. 

   “Did you and Rex talk about… you know…?” Hazel watches her sisters, curiously. 

   Camila shakes her head, “Didn’t really get around to it.” She replies, choosing not to say anything about her recent thoughts regarding the clone. 

   Hazel gives her a deadpan look, “Are you kidding me?”

   Camila looks away from her sister, guiltily. 

   “You need to talk to him, Mila.” Hazel says, “I mean it!”

   “Ugh! I know! And I-I…” She trails off, throwing her hands up in frustration. 

   “And what?”

   She shakes her head and Hazel groans, clearly annoyed. 

   “For stars sake, Camila! Tell me!”

   Camila looks at her in surprise, “Did you just call me Camila?”

   “Yes! Tell me! Something has changed. I can see it! So please tell me whatever it is that has been tormenting you about that tall, and very handsome, clone.”

   “You just called your boyfriend’s brothers handsome.” 

   “Am I wrong? And anyways, there’s only one Tech.” She replies and Camila grins.

   “Awe. You big softie.” 

   “No! You’re deflecting!” Hazel says, raising a threatening finger as she glares at her sister, “Tell me. What. Is. It?”

   Camila remains silent for a few moments. Not making eye contact with her sister before looking up with a sigh.

   “I finally realised that I forgive him.” She admits, “And that I miss him. So much.”

   Hazel breaks into a grin and squeals, “Holy fuck! I’ve been waiting for this day!”

   Camila rolls her eyes, biting her lips to stop herself from matching the grin of her sister.

   “Have you told him? When did you realise this?” Hazel watches her sister with eager eyes, awaiting the truth. She wanted her sister and her lover to be back together so badly. It ached watching them interact from a distance, loving each other silently and unknowingly.

   “I realised on the way to Alderaan and no, I haven’t told him. I have yet to call him and… I don’t even know what I would say.” She slouches with a sigh, her grin being replaced with an anxious expression.

   “Tell him what you’ve realised. And don’t call him. Tell him in person!” Hazel says, “Then he can kiss you.”

   “That’s a bit far.” Camila scoffs.

   “What? You’ve done it before. And i’m dying to see you both together again. We all are.” Hazel replies, rolling her eyes.

   “I’m not kissing him.” Camila states, “And I don’t even know where he is at the moment.”

   “Then call him and ask.” Hazel says, simply.

   “You just told me not to call him!” Camila stares at her sister.

   “I told you not to tell him you missed him over comm. I never said ‘don’t call him’.” Hazel laughs.

   “You definitely said ‘don’t call him’.” Camila corrects with a roll of her eyes.

   “Whatever. Just. Talk to him. Please.”

   “I’ll think about it.” Camila says with a small smile. 

   They bid goodbye and the call ends. Camila leans back in her seat with a mournful sigh. Love was hard.

   She glances around the room with a faint sigh. Her eyes then lock to a new photo on one of the cabinets. It was a recent holo of Rex and Alba. The young girl had fallen asleep on his chest while they were sitting on the couch together. He’d followed soon after and she’d managed to get a photo after he’d fallen asleep.  She smiles softly at it before getting to her feet.

   Alba plays in the living room with Nanij beside her and Camila watches from a distance. She knows that Alba misses her dad. She could see it but Rex is busy and she knows that Alba knows that.

   Her thoughts, once again, return to the clone Captain and the ache in her chest accompanies it. Hazel was right. She needs to talk to him.

 

   Camila smiles softly as she strokes one of the Queen’s many loth cats. Her aunt is a big fan of the cats and when Camila was little she would always sneak into the palace to see them. 

   The one that rests on her lap now is many years old and was only a kitten when the Queen had brought her, back when Camila was in her teenage years. She was Camila’s favourite then and she still is now. 

   The cat, Kit’ia, purrs quietly as she scratches her ears. Queen Elvira sits across from her, a different cat on her own lap, as she talks to Talia, Camila’s representative in the senate. There was no meeting till tomorrow evening so Talia had decided to come home to see the family while her assistant remained behind.

   Camila doesn’t pay much attention as they talk about Talia’s family, instead fawning over Kit’ia. A new question catches her attention, though.

   “And what of the Emperor? Has he made an appearance in the senate as of late?” Queen Elvira asks.

   Talia shakes her head. her dark curls bouncing, despite being gathered into a slick back bun on the top of her head. 

   “Emperor Palpatine has barely made an appearance or left his office since the announcement of the Galactic Empire.” Talia reveals, with a faint frown, “I have, however, forwarded your request to have the Naravi system become neutral, to Vice Amedda. There has been no reply though.”

   “I sent the same a few days ago,” Camila adds, “But still await a reply.”

   “Let us hope they accept our request for this move.” Queen Elvira says, “I do not want to put this system nor its people in danger.”

   Talia watches as Camila sighs, mournfully.

   “Let’s hope.” The representative nods.

   “For the sake of Naravi, let us hope.” Camila looks up at them, biting the inside of her lip. 

   They both give her reassuring smiles, knowing the mother worried.

   “Our children will grow up free, Mila.” The Queen says and she nods.

   Camila gives her a grateful smile before the three friends all join hands. 

   “We’re in this together.” Talia says, quietly.

   “Always.” The aunt and niece reply.

 

 

 

Notes:

I know this is a short one and it's been a while but here you go! I finally finished writing this story and my word. I'm so excited for you all to read the finished print. It's a work in progress as i'm slowly editing but hopefully these chapters will come out faster now that they're already done.

Tech and Hazel's relationship is so good! I love writing little snipets of them. I'm also half way throgh reading the new Bad Batch novel and it's breaking and repairing my heart at the same time. I can't with Tech and Phee there just so !!!!!

Also should I look at writing another book in this series or should I start another rex fic (that man holds my whole heart and soul, not even kidding)!

Chapter 24: avoiding

Summary:

Mila calls him for the first time...

 

 

conatus sume mea proelia usque ad me – i tried to pick the battles ‘til the battles picked me

 

 

   It has been a couple days since Camila had last called her sister but she knows where Hazel is. The Batch and a friend of theirs had gone in search of some sort of treasure thing, last she heard. She isn’t sure if they were successful but she trusts them enough to call if they’re in trouble. 

   Despite this, Hazel’s words still rang in her head, alongside her heart’s desires for the one thing she constantly denied herself. 

   Every time she sits in her office, the picture of Rex and Alba stares at her, almost as if it’s trying to make her mind up for her. Too many times she’s almost given in. 

   This is one of those times. It’s late and Alba has long since gone to bed. Camila sits on her bed, a thick robe covering her nightgown as she stares at the holopad in front of her. It sits on the large grey blanket covering her sheets, almost as if it’s calling to her.

   She acts on impulse, allowing her heart to lead her movements as she reaches forward and clicks on his name. The screen lights up as it begins calling and her eyes widen. She’s quick to check her appearance in the mirror that she could just about see from her point on the bed.

   It rings a few times before he picks up. His face fills the screen and Camila almost sighs in relief as she sees him unharmed. 

   “Mila?”

   “Hey, Rex.”

   He seems equally surprised that she has called him and Camila watches as he seems to walk away from the cockpit of his ship and towards somewhere, she hopes, is more private. A door slides shut behind him and she bites her lip in anticipation of the conversation to come.

   “I wasn’t expecting your call.” He says.

   Neither was she.

   “Yeah… erm… I wasn’t expecting to call you myself, to be honest.” She admits and a soft smile appears on his face.

   “You worried about me, Mila?” He asks, teasingly.

   She rolls her eyes, a small chuckle falling from her lips. 

   “Alba’s getting mopey. She misses you.” She says.

   “And do you miss me?”

   She stares at him. Oh, she does. She misses him so very much. Her heart aches for her to admit it but Hazel convinces her otherwise. Instead, she shrugs and glances away for a second,

   “Maybe. I haven’t decided yet.” She lies, glancing back at him.

   He nods, his small smirk fading into a faint smile.

   She leans back in bed, resting against the soft cushions as they watch each other.

   “Is that why you called?” Rex asks.

   “We have a daughter who cares for you, Rex. She would be happy to hear you’re okay.” Camila says, pointedly avoiding his hidden assumptions.

   “There’s more to it than that.” He raises an eyebrow as he leans against something.

   Camila sighs, “What do you want me to say, Rex?”

   “Are we really going to tiptoe around everything we still haven’t talked about?” He questions.

   “I don’t know what you mean.” She shakes her head.

   “Yes. You do.” He replies, his voice stern, “Everything has changed and you’ve spent so long avoiding the truth of it all.”

   Camila shakes her head, refusing to confront it all now. She didn’t want to do this. Not now at least. Not over a holocall.

   “The season ball.” Rex reminds her, “I know I made a mistake but you care. I saw it that night and when we tried to talk the next morning.”

   “I hardly think that was a talk.” She retorts, “More like a start of an argument cut short.”

   He stares at her for a second.

   “Mila.” He says, quietly.

   She sighs with a small shake of her head, “I don’t want to discuss this over a call, Rex.”

   “When else then? You spend so long avoiding this, we’re never going to talk about any of it.” He replies and she hates to admit that he is right.

   A silence settles over them, Rex watching her as she picks at her blanket. 

   “Fine.” She gives in, almost silently, “Next time we see you. When you’re here. We’ll talk about it. I promise.”

   He stares at her for a second before nodding, “Okay.”

   She nods as he sighs.

   “What are you up to?” She asks and he takes a deep breath, the previous semi-argument washing away from them.

   “Not much. In between errands at the moment. Trying to get back in contact with a clone on Coruscant.” He tells her.

   “Anything I can do to help?” She asks.

   “You do enough, Mila. It’s just helping clones.” He says.

   “And yet all I do is sit on my ass.” She raises a defiant eyebrow and he chuckles.

   “You do more than just sit on your ass.” He replies, causing her to smile.

   “Whatever.” She rolls her eyes, “If you need help…”

   “I know.” He nods, gratefully, “Thank you.”

   She nods back and they stare at each other for a second before she sighs.

   “I should go.” She says, quietly, “I’m sure you have places to be and my bed calls to me.”

   He chuckles again, “I’m sure sleep craves you as much as you crave it.”

   “It hates to see me coming.”  

   They both laugh, quietly. 

   “I’ll speak to you later.” He says and she nods.

   “Goodnight, Rex.”

   “Night, Mila.”

 

    “How was school?” Camila calls as Alba and Nanij walk through the front door. She looks up from the files spread across the coffee table, making eye contact with the smiling face of her daughter.

   “It was good.” The five year old replies as she jumps onto the sofa, beside her mother, “Big school is so fun.”

   Camila hums, brushing a strand of hair out of Alba’s face.

   “What did you get up to?” She asks.

   “We did some drawing and decorated name cards, which I wrote myself!” Alba grins as she pulls a card out of her bag.

   It’s a red card with doodles and bits stuck to it. Alba’s name is written in big, jagged letters across the middle with a smiley face in the capital ‘A’.

   “It looks amazing, Alla.” The mother smiles gently at her daughter as she puts it back in her bag.

   “It was so fun, Mama.”

   Camila puts her arm out and Alba leans into her side.

   “Guess what, baby.” She says.

   “What?” Alba replies, looking up at her mother with large brown eyes.

   “I have to go to Coruscant tomorrow. Thought you might like to join me.” She suggests.

   Alba’s eyes widen as she smiles.

   “Really?! I come with you?!” 

   Camila smiles and Alba squeals, clapping her hands.

   “I have to tell daddy!” She says, grabbing Camila’s holopad.

   “Easy, Alla.” Camila warns, taking it from her, “You can comm him tomorrow.”

   Alba groans but quickly remembers the conversation and runs away to pack.

   Camila smiles after her, glad to see her so happy again. She then looks back at the holopad. Maybe Rex would be on Coruscant. He did mention it when they called.

   She shakes her head, not wanting to think about it right now, and returns to her papers, allowing the numbers to fill her mind instead.

 

 

 

Notes:

Are they finally going to talk about it?

AHHHHH THEY HOLD ME!!! I love them so much! They're angst is so AHHHASUHAOSHAOH
ANywayS, I know i'm kind of speeding through season two but she's not really in it and most of it is just their conflicting feelings as they try and figure out what they want.
I love Alba so much as well. I do have a fic planned for her set during Rebels so maybe next book...

Chapter 25: assassin

Summary:

Mila and Alba arrive on Coruscant...

 

 

nos tantum malimus scribere de lapsis  –  did we just prefer to only write about the fallen 

 

 

   Camila watches as Alba talks to Rex’s holo. They’d be talking for the past few minutes as the Starbird makes its way to Coruscant.

   “Maybe we will see you, Daddy.” Alba is saying. Apparently Rex was already on Coruscant.

   “Maybe, Adi’ka.” He says, “But your mother and I are both working.”

   Alba sighs and then gets to her feet, bringing the holo over to where Camila sits, organising the final few orders for the renovations of her family home.

   “Mama, say hi to Daddy.” She says, crawling into the seat beside her mother.

   “Hi, Rex.” She says, smiling softly at her daughter and then Rex before returning to her papers.

   “Hey. What are you doing?” Rex asks.

   She glances up at him.

   “Just sorting out the final things for renovations.” She tells him and he nods.

   “Sounds good.”

   “Where are you?” She asks. 

   “Coruscant street levels. It’s very dark down here.” He replies, making a funny face at Alba and causing her to giggle.

   “Sounds fun.” Camila smiles.

   “It's scary.” He says, widening his eyes dramatically.

   “Are you gonna be okay, Daddy?” Alba asks.

   "I’ll be fine, Adi’ka.” He chuckles slightly, giving her a reassuring smile.

   “Well, we’re almost at Coruscant and I have a meeting with Senator Chuchi almost as soon as I arrive.” Camila tells him.

   “What sort of meeting?” He asks, cautiously.

   “Personal one, why?” She frowns at him as he looks at her warily.

   “She’s here with me at the moment.” 

   Camila sits up in her seat.

   “Alla, can you go and play with Nanij? I need to talk to Daddy for a moment.” She says.

   Alba groans, “But why, Mama?”

   “Now. Please, Alba.” She orders and the young girl reluctantly walks away.

   “What happened?” She asks, once Alba’s disappeared.

   “An assassin went after a clone contact of mine that I had gone to retrieve. The Senator was meeting with him and got caught in the attack. She’s unharmed but a bit shaken. I’ve detained the assassin and had just finished contacting the Bad Batch when Alba called.” He explains.

   Camila sighs and runs a hand across her face.

   “What did this assassin look like?” She asks.

   “That’s the thing.” He says, “He looks exactly like a clone but his designation and everything else has been wiped. He’s practically untraceable.”

   “I didn’t even know that was possible.” She says with a frown.

   “Neither did I.” He replies, glancing to the side, probably at the assassin.

   “What do you need me to do?” Camila asks.

   “Nothing at the moment.” Rex says and she opens her mouth to protest, “Mila, I'm serious. Go to your meetings and you can talk to Senator Chuchi about this. Alba doesn’t need to know or get caught up in it all.”

   She sighs and nods, “Yeah, alright.”

   “I’ve got to go.” He says, softly.

   “Okay.” She replies, “Keep me updated.”

   “I will.” He promises, “See you later.”

   “Bye.” 

   The call ends and Camila stares at the place he had been. What a mess.

 

   Camila glances around her office on Coruscant. She couldn’t believe what had happened to Riyo. If assassins were going after senators, she could be in big trouble. And so could Alba. Rex was right, though. She couldn’t get involved. If the Empire had sent that assassin, and they probably had, then she would be putting herself, Alba and her people in danger. She couldn’t risk it.

   She gets up from her seat and walks out of the room. Alba is sitting in the living room and grins at her mother as she enters.

   “Are we going to see Daddy?” She asks.

   “Maybe later, baby. I’m heading over to the Senate building. I’ll be back later.” She tells her and Alba slouches in sadness.

   “I’m sorry, Alla.” Camila says, “But your father is very busy. Maybe he’ll come around before he leaves.”

   Alba nods and goes back to her game. Camila watches her with a sad expression. She hadn’t been able to speak to Riyo yet and vaguely knew what was going on. Worry was the only thing on her mind right now. Worry for her friends, for her family, her people, Rex, Alba. She couldn’t afford to lose any of them.

 

   Camila walks through the halls of the Senate building, her guards walking either side of her. Her hands are clasped underneath the sleeves of her cloak, her thumbs tapping on the top of her hand, anxiously. She could feel eyes on her everywhere, every member of the Empire watching her with caution. The Emperor’s pets in this game. Only it wasn’t a game but real life. 

   She leaves the building and walks towards two people and a droid. A small smile takes up her face as the smallest of the two looks towards her and grins.

   “Mila!” Omega grins as Camila approaches her and Riyo. The blonde moves over to the Senator and is quick to wrap her arms around her waist. Camila hugs the young girl, kissing the side of her head.

   “Hello, ‘Mega. How are you?” Camila greets, shooting Senator Chuchi a grin.

   “I’m great. What are you doing here?” Omega asks, looking up at her.

   “Thought i’d join you.” She says and Omega hugs her again before stepping away.

   She then turns to Riyo, “How are you?”

   “I’m fine.” She replies.

   “Rex said you were a bit shaken.”’

   “You spoke to Rex?” Omega asks, slight shock appearing on her face.

   “Don’t tell Hazel.” Camila jokes and they all smile.

   “I’m fine. I promise.” Riyo says and Camila nods.

   They begin to walk and soon join Bail, heading out into the surrounding streets of Coruscant.

   “An assassin?” Bail exclaims, quietly, glancing back at Omega, “It seems Rampart is resourceful at covering up his misdeeds.”

   “Which is why I intend to be equally resourceful.” Riyo replies, “Some… associates of mine are helping procure evidence about his attack on Kamino to present to the Senate.” 

   Camila’s eyes widen. This she didn’t know.

   “And… you’re confident they can accomplish this?” Bail asks.

   “Very.” Omega replies and Camila shoots the young girl a grin.

   “I won’t leave such an important task to chance.” Riyo says, “Other Senators may have intel useful to my efforts.”

   Camila listens to the conversation intently, her mind unwillingly drifting to Padmé. She would have been one of the Senators who would have stood by them in this.

   “If you are intent on seeing this through, there is someone you should speak with,” Bail begins, “But their cooperation may not be forthcoming. Halle Burtoni.”

   “Who’s that?” Omega asks and they all come to a stop.

   “Former Senator for Kamino.” Camila replies, glancing down at the ground then to her fellow Senators.

   “She was part of the Defence Finance Committee before being removed from office.” Bail continues.

   Riyo puts a hand to her chin as Bail walks forward. 

   “Follow the money. It always leaves a trail.” He glances at Camila with a faint nod, before walking away.

   Omega steps between the two women and they look down at her before making eye contact.

   “I will head to Senator Burtoni’s office with Omega.” Riyo informs Camila, who nods, “You should find out how my associates are doing.”

   Camila rolls her eyes as she glimpses Riyo’s smirk.

   “I’m sure they are very busy, Senator.” She replies, “Plus. I have places to be and people to see.”

   Riyo chuckles, “What people?”

   “Who are you seeing?” Omega asks.

   “I have a bear who seeks my attention. She misses her father.” Camila says and Omega nods. 

   They say goodbye to each other before she walks away.

   She makes her way through the winding streets, making her way back towards her speeder. She was glad for the presence of her guards. Being in Coruscant at the moment, out in the streets, especially at night, was dangerous. Especially for a Senator who was a known friend of the Jedi and supporter of the clones.

   She soon reaches her speeder, greeting the driver and getting in with her guards. Ready to head back to her waiting daughter.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Omega and Mila's relationship is adorable. ANd so is Alba and Rex's>>>

As previously mentioned, Mila doesn't have much of a role in series especially in season two, she's kind of just 'there'. BUT she is still well-loved by all.
Her and Rex are so angsty i love it, but im so excited to show you their 'in love' era. it's pretty funny.

Chapter 26: stormtroopers

Summary:

The Batch's evidence faces the Senate...

 

 

non per omnia gratis –  you didn’t go through all that for nothing

 

 

   Camila stands in her pod in the Senate. The meeting had begun a few minutes ago and already Camila knew that it was going to be risky. This vote was critical but the lack of evidence supporting Riyo’s case would cause the result to be against them.

   “This is not the case, Admiral.” Riyo is saying, “We cannot take you on your word, when you have given us reason not to.”

   “And what reason is that?” Rampart asks.

   “According to Halle Burtoni, you were responsible for diverting kaminoan funding to outside projects without senate approval.” She says.

   “And you believe the lies of a disgraced Senator?” Rampart questions, raising his hands as the chamber is filled with murmurs and whispers.

   “A formal investigation will clear things up unless you want to tell us now where those funds went?” Riyo gestures around the room as the noise level picks up.

   Rampart glances around, clearly anxious, and a small smile appears on Camila’s face.

   “I am not at liberty to disclose the nature of certain military operations,” Rampart states with a not-very-subtle glare, “the funds you are referring to were… redistributed not misappropriated.”

   “Your actions began months before the marscare of Tipoca City, almost as if you were preparing for it.” She leans forward as she continues to accuse him and Camila makes eye contact with Bail, who stands a few pods over.

   “What exactly are you implying?” Rampart asks.

   “I am saying that the kaminoan cloning facilities were intentionally eliminated.” Riyo accuses.

   People begin to get to their feet, approaching the controls of their pod as the noise grows louder, shock ringing throughout the room at the revelation.

   “I will not dignify such baseless accusations with more of my time.” Rampart declares, barely being heard over the sounds of the chamber. 

   His voice raises, though, as he addresses the room, “If there are no further issues, let us proceed with this vote.”

   “I vote that Senator Chuchi be removed from these proceedings and she be sentenced for her misconduct.” A Senator calls out and Camila scoffs.

   “I second the notion.” Another agrees.

   “Are you kidding me?” Camila mutters.

   Bail’s pod detaches from its place in the wall and he brings it forward, approaching Riyo.

   “Senators!” Bail calls out, “New evidence has come to light which must be considered.” He hands something to one of Riyo’s guards.

   “What, so-called proof, do you have?” The Senator from before asks.

   “The recovered command log from Admiral Rampart’s Venator.” Riyo declares, “Which indicates his own ships caused the destruction of Tipoca City.” She points, accusingly, at the imperial officer, and a holo soon appears.

   An image of Tipoca City being destroyed appears, holo Venators shooting it down from above. Camila’s eyes harden as she glares at the Admiral. He was the very reason Rex, the Batch, Omega, all the clones, no longer had their home. All because he destroyed it out of spite.

   Uproar fills the room as they all watch on, the sound of shooting from the holo accompanying the gasps of displeasure. 

   A loud ringing echoes around the room and Camila edges her pod forward, looking down into the centre of the chamber as the Chancellor’s pod rises from the floor. The Emperor’s vice taps his staff on the floor as it rises and Camila crosses her arms, calming her mind. She could see him sitting there, under his dark cloak. She did not need him snooping in her head. Rampart stands to attention but Camila doesn’t even notice the darting eyes and growing wariness of the chamber. Anger and annoyance began to fill her as she remembers everything that has happened under the orders of this man. Many Jedi and good clones were dead because of him. She didn’t see Rex for years because the war helped drive them apart. The war he orchestrated.

   The holo disappears.

   “It would appear that Senator Chuchi’s horrific assertions are correct.” Mas Amedda declares, and once again, surprise fills the room, “This unprovoked attack on Kamino, was a cowardly act by Admiral Rampart to further his own personal agenda.”

   Shouts fill the room but Camila watches the Emperor and his advisor closely. This wasn’t supposed to happen and now this won’t end the way they want it too. She could tell something was going to happen. Her shoulders drop slightly as she struggles to keep her mask up.

   “Guards! Arrest and detain the Admiral!” He orders.

   A pod approaches the Admiral’s and two of the Coruscant Guard begin to arrest a protesting Rampart.

   Amedda stamps his staff on the floor, “Order. We shall have order.”

   Emperor Palpatine gets to his feet and the entire room goes deathly silent.

   “I am deeply troubled by this recent revelation. My gratitude to Senator Chuchi for exposing a rogue element in our ranks.” He gestures to the Senator before continuing, “Many lives have been lost but I assure you, Admiral Rampart will face the consequences for his treachery. However, he did not act alone.” Camila frowns as she watches on, curious on where he was going with this, “The fact that the clones under his command so blindly followed orders, inflicting such harm without hesitation, gives me crawles.”

   Camila fights back a scoff.

   “What is he talking about?” Talia whispers and Camila shushes her, quietly.

   “Perhaps it is time for a change. Now, more than ever, even a strong galaxy requires protection.” Palpatine states and Camila shifts from one foot to the other, “Security. Due to the nefarious acts of Admiral Rampart and the immediacy of the bill on the floor today, it is my opinion that this legislation is our future. With this momentous act, we shall usher in a new era, heralded by the Imperial Stormtrooper!” 

   At this declaration, Camila’s expression drops. Riyo looks towards her as Camila shakes her head, staring forward.

 

   Camila and Riyo later make their way to the Martez hanger with Omega, annoyance and upset hanging over them. Camila has her arm wrapped around the young girl’s shoulders as they enter the hanger.

   The Batch and Rex all turn to face them as they approach, their happy faces drooping. Omega joins the Batch as Hazel pulls Camila into a hug.

   “Rampart was arrested.” Riyo reveals, “But they’re decommissioning clones. In place of stormtroopers.”

   “The troopers you encountered before Hazel and Hunter fell off that mountain.” Camila adds as she steps back.

   “Palpatine was one step ahead of us during the war and he’s still several steps ahead of us.” Rex says as Camila crosses her arms.

   “We played right into his hands.” She says, quietly, and they all glance over at her.

   “I don’t understand.” Omega says, “We did the right thing. We told the truth.”

   “And he twisted it to his advantage.” Hunter informs her.

   “The Emperor wanted us to implicate Rampart to get what he wanted all along.” Rex says, “Senate approval for his stormtrooper program.”

   “And he got it. Hell, he got it.” Camila shakes her head, turning away from the group slightly. 

   “The fate of all the clones is now sealed.” Echo states, “Because of us. What’s going to happen to them?”

   “I don’t know.” Riyo says and Camila turns back to the group, “But we will keep fighting for the clones.” Camila nods in agreement, sending them all a reassuring smile, “You all deserve the same rights as every citizen.” She walks towards Omega and leans down, “I won’t give up.” She adds and Omega nods at her, gratefully.

   “If you need anything, Rex, Mila. Just say the word.” Hunter says, “Senator.”

   Echo walks forward as Hazel pulls her sister into a short hug.

   “It was good to see you again, Mila.” Hazel whispers and she returns the sentiment.

   “Wherever you end up, remember what I said.” Hunter tells Echo, before giving Camila a smile and walking away. 

   Lena then steps forward, bringing Echo into a hug, “You know how to reach us.” She says. She’s then replaced by Astoria, who grins at him, “You better keep up on your meds, Corporal.” He smiles back at her as she squeezes his hand.

   “Don’t get into trouble without us.” Wrecker says, lightly punching Echo’s arm and grinning at Camila. Astoria then grips Camila’s hand before walking away with her boyfriend. Lena hugs the Senator before moving to join the couple back to the Marauder, giving Rex a stern smile.

   “Without us?” Omega questions.

   Hazel steps forward and pulls Echo into a hug, “Tell Kaya I said hello.”

   Echo chuckles, hugging her back. 

   “Best of luck, Echo.” Tech says, nodding his head at his friend then Camila, “Mila.”

   “See you later, Tech.” Camila says, quietly, nodding back.

   Omega stares at her brothers, “Luck with what?” She asks.

   “I’m going with Rex.” Echo tells her, “The clones need our help now, more than ever. I can’t turn my back on them.”

   “You can’t leave. We-We’re a squad.” Omega frowns at him, glancing at Camila for confirmation but all she does is look down.

   “Omega. This is something I have to do. I’m going where I'm needed.” He says.

   “But. We need you too.” Omega reasons.

   He puts his helmet down and kneels in front of her. 

   “It’s not forever. I’ll be back.” He tells her, placing a hand on her shoulder, “Keep up with your training while I'm gone, huh? Understood?”

   She looks at him before jumping forward, wrapping her arms around his neck. He hugs her back and Camila watches with a faint, sad smile on her face. She knows this is hard for Omega. 

   “Yes, sir.” Omega mumbles, wiping away a tear.

   Echo gets to his feet, “Keep an eye on them.” He says, gesturing with his head towards the Marauder .

   Omega then looks at Rex, who nods, and Riyo, before turning to Camila. The brunette Senator crouches down and holds out her arms. Omega steps into them, hugging her tightly.

   “You be good.” Camila says into the young girl’s ear, “Alba will want to hear about all your adventures next time you see her, alright sweetheart?”

   Omega pulls away and nods at her.

   “Good.” Camila tucks a strand of hair behind the young girl’s ear and gets to her feet.  

   The girl then turns and runs towards the Marauder . She glances back at the bottom of the steps before walking up to join Hunter. The ship then flies away, the four of them watching as it goes.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

I HATE Palpatine SO MUCH O M G
Also, Echo leaving was so sad to watch again while writing this because Omega looked heartbroken. I was running out of ways to include the OCs of tbb in this scene ngl. Also, Mila is just there and has now shifted the blame onto Palps, rightfully so!!

Hope you all are enjoying these spammed updates.

Chapter 27: like old times

Summary:

Rex and Echo join Mila...

 

 

idea non amare –  the idea was to not fall in love

 

 

   Rex turns to her after the Marauder departs but she still watches it until it disappears from sight. Once it’s gone, she sighs loudly, the results of the meeting still plaguing her mind.

   “Where are you off to next?” She asks. Her thoughts and past revelations plague her, the promises she had made to Hazel, Rex and herself picking away in her mind.

   Rex glances at Echo before nodding, “We are off to some planets in the Outer Rim. Following up some leads.”

   “Of course.” Camila nods for a second, “After all that, I expect nothing less.”

   Rex watches her as she turns to Riyo.

   “Shall I join you, Riyo?” She asks.

   “It’s alright, Mila.” She replies with a shake of her head, “My guards will accompany me. Will you be fine by yourself?”

   “Yes. I’ll call for my guards when I leave.” Camila informs her and Riyo nods. She bids farewell to Rex and Echo and leaves with her guards.

   Camila watches her do so before turning back to the brothers.

   “When do you leave?” She asks, refusing to look at Rex and instead curiously looking around the hanger.

   “Tomorrow. Probably.” He replies and she nods, slowly.

   “I should go.” She says, sending Echo a small smile. He reciprocates, watching the two ex lovers will a subtle roll of his eyes.

   “We’ll come with you, Mila.” Rex says, “I promised Alba I’d try and stop by.”

   “Am I going to have to try and sneak you in?” Camila asks, watching him, a teasing glint in her eyes.

   “Like old times.” He smirks and she rolls her eyes.

   “Very well.” She gives in, “Let’s go then.”

 

   The three head back to the Senate Apartment Complex, Camila leading them through a side door away from prying eyes. Rex and Echo hide under two cloaks she’d snatched from a vendor. They take the elevator up to Camila’s apartment, near the top of the Complex. 

   Camila sends her guards a nod as she leads the two clones into her apartment.

   “Alba’s asleep. Probably in my bed.” She tells them as they put their bags down next to the couch. 

   “Why would she be in your bed?” Echo asks.

   “When we’re away together she doesn’t like sleeping away from me because it’s not her bedroom or her home.” She explains and the two nod.

   “Can I go check on her?” Rex asks and she nods.

   “I think I remember where your room is.” He adds with a smirk and she rolls her eyes as he disappears into the hallway. 

   Echo raises his eyebrows teasingly at her and she rolls her eyes again.

   “You talked to him yet?” His voice is teasing as well and she shakes her head as she begins to clear the sofa.

   “Of course not. And what has Hazel been telling you?” She shoots him a glare as he takes the pillows from her and places them on the coffee table.

   “Plenty of things, I assure you.” He chuckles as they move the table away from the couch.

   “I hope you know you’re sleeping on the couch.” She says.

   He chuckles again, “I’ve slept on worse. At least this is comfy.”

   “I’ll make you sleep on the floor.” She threatens, “Or on the balcony if you prefer.”

   He smiles at her, making her roll her eyes and smile back as she turns away.

   “I’ll get you your blankets, you loth rat.” 

   “Why, thank you, m’lady.” He bows mockingly and she walks away, flipping him off.

   She walks into the hallway and slips into her bedroom. Rex is sitting on the bed beside Alba. He kisses her forehead and looks up as she walks in. 

   He gives her a small smile and she returns it slightly before turning to her wardrobe. He gets up as she gently slides the door open and pulls out some blankets and pillows. He takes them from her as she shuts the door again and the pair leave the room.

   “You can sleep on the other couch if you want, or in Alla’s room.” She says.

   “I’ll sleep on the couch. It’ll be easier.”

   She nods and they join Echo. The clone has since cleared the opposite couch, all the pillows were piled up on the coffee table between them, and stripped down to his blacks.

   Camila puts pillows and blankets on both and the boys thank her.

   “I’m going to go to bed. Refreshers down the hall, find me if you need anything.” They nod and she looks at Rex a bit longer before walking away. 

   He watches her leave, his heart heavy in his chest.

   “You need to talk to her.” Echo says, crossing his arms.

   “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Rex replies, turning back to the couch and removing his shirt.

   “You clearly both have feelings for each other and there’s so much tension between you two, it’s actually suffocating!” Echo tells him, dropping his arms and watching as Rex sorts through his bag.

   He hums and stands up, going to walk away.

   “You know I’m right!” Echo says, before Rex disappears into the Refresher.

   The clone sighs, shaking his head. They’ll figure it out soon.

 

   Later, Camila lays in bed. Alba is spread out across half of it, gripping her tooka doll. The mother stares up at the ceiling, watching the lights of passing speeders and the countless skyscrapers bouncing around. She turns over, facing her sleeping daughter, as the countless thoughts haunt her mind. She knows she needs to do it. She knows what she has to do, she just… She can’t bring herself too. 

   Camila never realised until that moment how truly terrified she actually is. I mean, she knew that she was terrified before now… now she feels it properly. The possibility of everything that could happen is daunting for her.

   With a faint sigh, she finally closes her eyes. It didn’t matter right now. Now, she would sleep and forget about it. She drifts off into a restless sleep, her thoughts picking away at her.

 

 

 

Notes:

they're actually going to talk about it. is that relationship development???
another short one. these aren't long chapters, i've noticed. explains why there's so many...
i also updated the total of chapters so people can see

i can't with these two. also, love echo and mila's friendship. they're hilarious. her friendship with so many of the clones cracks me up and the little snippets in this book i loved writing.
Echo is so done with Rex and Mila's shit.

Chapter 28: happiness

Summary:

Alba wakes the next morning...

 

 

sicut quod tibi nocere non intelliguntur non sum –  just because you’re hurting, doesn’t mean i’m not

 

 

   The following morning, Camila gently wakes Alba from her slumber, a soft smile on her lips.

   “Alla. Alla, wake up.” Camila nudges her gently.

   The young girl stares, her eyes flickering open as she looks up at her mother. 

   “Mama? I’m tired.”

   Camila laughs, “Come on. Get up. I’ve got a surprise for you.”

   Alba groans again but eventually gets up. Camila hands her dressing gown to her as she leads the young girl out into the hallway. It is quite early, at least for the five year old beside her, and Camila hopes that the two clones haven’t fully got up yet.

   They walk into the living room to see Echo sitting up on his datapad and Rex still laying down, talking quietly to each other.

   “Daddy!” Alba squeals and the two clones look up. They both grin as she runs over to them, jumping onto the sofa.

   Rex pulls her into a tight hug as the brothers laugh.

   “Hello, adi’ka.” Rex greets. 

   Camila watches them fondly as she sits beside Echo. Alba lays on top of her father as he sits up slightly, resting his head against the armrest, his arms pulling his daughter close to him.

   “Mama said you might not be coming. I’m happy you’re here, Daddy.” Alba smiles at him as she plays with the tassels on the blanket.

   “I’m happy I'm here too, Alba.”

   “I missed you.” She says, quietly, before nestling into Rex’s side with a giggle.

   “Missed you too, Alla.”

   He looks over at Camila as she watches them fondly. Rex smiles at her and she returns it. 

   “Alright, Alla. Breakfast.” Camila gets to her feet, beckoning her daughter as Echo gets up to use the Refresher. Rex follows them with his eyes as they go into the breakfast room. He sits up and picks up his datapad.

   Camila comes back in and picks up Alba’s tooka doll that she had dropped on the floor. She walks over to Rex and sits beside him.

   “Did you two sleep alright? You know, you could have taken Alba’s room.” 

   “We slept fine, Mila. Thank you.” He smiles at her in reassurance and she nods her head, fiddling with the doll.

   “When are you leaving again?”

   “Later this morning, after lunch at a push.” He replies and she nods.

   They fall into silence, sitting together while stuck in their own thoughts.

   “Are we going to talk?” Camila asks softly.

   Rex looks at her in surprise. Normally, he’s the one to instigate that sort of conversation, she was normally against it.

   “Now?” He questions, suddenly nervous.

   She shrugs, “I don’t know. I just…” She trails off, her eyes scanning the room.

   “I made a promise to myself and to you that we would talk about it. About all of it. And honestly, I… I’m terrified but I know it needs to be done. I… I need to do this.” She looks at him, her eyes wide and slightly pleading. If Rex was a Jedi, he knows he would be able to feel all of the emotions from her right now.

   He nods, “Okay. Then we can talk. But I just wasn’t sure if now, on Coruscant, when Alba and Echo are here, would be where you would want to do it.”

   She sighs.

   “I know. It’s not where I want to do it. I wanted to do it at home but I said that it would happen the next time we saw each other and I don’t know when I’m going to see you again. By that time, I might not be so keen having dwelled over it for so long.”

   Rex nods in understanding.

   “Makes sense. But I’ve got one small mission before I can come by Naravi IV for a couple days.” He suggests.

   She looks up at him as if searching for any bit of a lie. His heart aches for what she is doing. Did she really trust him enough? Clearly not if she still looks for any lies.

   “Are you sure?” She asks, warily.

   “Yes, I'm sure, Mila.” He reassures, “It will make things easier, and I promise I’ll return as soon as I can.”

   They continue to stare at each other, until Camila nods. A soft smile lights up her face and Rex grins back.

   “Good. Now, I’m starving.” He gets to his feet and pulls on a shirt, “I’m going to go and eat. Will you join me?”

   He holds out his hand and Camila stares at it for a second before nodding.

   “Of course.”

   They both walk towards the kitchen, letting go of each other's hand then entering.

   Echo watches from the hallway, shaking his head as he leaves the shadows of the early morning sun. They’d sort it soon enough.

 

   Later that morning, Camila is sitting in her office working. From the living room, she can hear Alba’s laugh as Echo and Rex are telling stories from the 501st. 

   A small sigh escapes her as she leans back in her chair. She looks around the room, something she usually did in her office at home, and her heart aches slightly. There are no personal pictures or items here like at home. The same goes for every room in the apartment. She doesn’t spend a lot of time here and in the past people have searched her apartment. In fact, it was one of the first things the Empire had done when they rose to power. There’s many secrets in her life and she doesn’t need anyone on Coruscant knowing about them.

   Her gaze flickers back to the screen in front of her. She stares at the list of unopened messages before turning it off. She sighs again as she gets to her feet. The messages can wait. Rex and Echo are leaving soon.

   Camila walks out of her office, the door sliding shut behind her as she makes her way into the living room. The two clones and Alba are all sitting on the couches in the middle of the room and she smiles softly as she walks over to them. Before she sits down though, she takes note of the boys’ packed bags.

   Echo shoots her smile as she sits beside him and she grins back, resting her head on his shoulder briefly as he squeezes her hand.

   Rex is watching Alba as she laughs.

   “What did you say?” Camila asks, quietly.

   Echo chuckles, “Rex and I told her about the time Hardcase scared Fives with a rubber duck while in the showers and he threw it and it hit Dogma in the face.”

   Camila grins, letting out a quiet laugh. She looks over to the two on the couch as the boys begin another story. 

   Rex grins at his brother, gently nudging Alba, a happy smile illuminating her face as she listens, intrigued. She giggles slightly as Echo starts to gesture what had happened.

   Camila leans back, a smile gracing her lips as she embraces the scene before her. This is what she always hoped it would be like. Alba with her family, big or small, and Rex sitting there beside her. And now she has it… she never wants to see it go. 

   She bites her lip slightly as she zones back into the story, joy and happiness filling her heart as she enjoys the moment.

 

   Soon enough, though, it is time for the boys to leave.

   Alba clings to Rex as Camila and Echo hug. They both pull apart, smiling gently at each other.

   “I’ll take good care of him. I promise.” Echo promises and she nods in thanks.

   “Take care of yourself too.” She says, squeezing his shoulder and he nods back.

   They then turn to Rex and Alba. Rex presses one more kiss to his daughter’s head before placing her on the ground. He then turns to Camila. She smiles at him before stepping forward and wrapping her arms around his neck. She feels him smile into her neck as he wraps his arms around her waist. The hug is short and when they pull apart, she tries to hide the small blush coating her cheeks.

   Alba reaches up and grips her mother’s hand as the clones turn away. 

   Camila draws a breath as they walk into the elevator, she holds eye contact with Rex until the doors slide shut. Her gaze falls to the ground, taking a split second to gather herself. She then turns to Alba and picks the young girl up, starting a conversation about the stories that Rex and Echo had been telling her.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Their little family <3

I have little words except 'happiness'.

Chapter 29: rose

Summary:

a surprise to be sure...

 

 

ego scivi te, quae si omnia adero –  i knew you’d haunt all my what-ifs

 

 

   Camila rolls her eyes as she listens to the Queen’s advisor talk. He is old and she is strongly surprised he is still around. Though, recently there has been talk that he is retiring and she hopes it’s true.

   “I believe that our effort to go neutral is futile and that we have been unsuccessful. We should pick our side. Now.” He is saying. 

   Camila fights the urge to roll her eyes at the man, knowing that this is not what the Queen truly wants. Clearly, he’s not been doing his job properly.

   “I appreciate the idea, Clemac, but I do not want to put our people at potential risk by choosing a side.” the Queen defends.

   “Not choosing may be even worse. We will become a prime victim of an invasion.” He replies and this time Camila does roll her eyes.

   “Advisor, you really don’t seem to understand the situation here,” Camila begins, causing everyone to turn to her, “The Republic is gone and while the Clone War may have ended, what’s not to say another won’t start up because of this Empire. If we want our people to live freely then not associating ourselves with another galactic government like Palpatine’s Empire may very well be the only way to protect them.”

   She spots the Queen looking down with a grin and she attempts to suppress one herself when Clemac stares at her and sits down.

   “My point exactly. Thank you, Senator.” The Queen says and Camila nods at her.

   The meeting continues for a short while but it’s eventually adjourned. Camila watches everyone disappear through the chamber doors until only her and the Queen remain.

   Camila watches as her aunt flicks through the various papers in front of her. Elvira glances up at her for a second before doing a double take.

   “Something you need, Senator?” She asks, a tired smile on her lips.

   “Just wondering if you’re okay, my Queen. I know it’s been tough recently, and I don’t want you to lose yourself in your work again.” Camila smiles, softly, at her. 

   Her aunt sighs, “There’s a lot of work and a lot to do at the moment. For both of us.”

   “I know. But you need to remind yourself of those around you. Of Asziya. You’re not on your own.” She reminds.

   Queen Elvira nods, “Thank you, Camila.”

   Camila gives her another kind smile and then takes her leave. She walks through the Palace corridors alone, passing guards and maids every now and then. Faint voices could be heard a few times, behind closed doors, as she wanders but she ignores them. Her eyes drift over the gold patterning on the stone walls, the deep purple and forest green decorations. 

   As she turns a corner, she halts. Her eyes lock onto the woman at the other end of the corridor. Her sandy robes are dirty and her blonde hair falls in short, loose curls around her shoulders. Camila frowns and speeds up her steps. The woman has her back to her, apparently hiding from something as she looks around. 

   “Rhoswen?” Camila calls, “Rose?!” 

   The blonde spins around, panicked eyes meeting Camila’s worried one’s.

   “Senator?” Her voice is scratchy and hoarse as she peers at her.

   “Yeah, Rose. Are you okay?” She comes to a stop in front of her and places a hand on her dirt covered shoulder, “What happened?”

   Rose flinches at the contact but covers it up with a tired sigh. A tear trickles down her face as she stares at the brunette in silent relief.

   “Senator Ri’vane, thank the gods.” Rose almost collapses into Camila’s arms and she’s quick to offer support, holding up the slightly older woman. 

   “Rose, what the hell happened to you?” She asks.

   Rose sighs again, “My father happened. H-He… tried to k-kill me.” The blonde attempts to steady her voice as she gasps out an answer. 

   “How did you get here?” Camila rubs her hand on Rose’s back.

   “Stole an i-imperial shuttle. I-It crash landed in the countryside. I’ve b-….” She takes a deep breath before continuing, “Searching for the palace for days.”

   “Stars above, you must be parched.” Camila gasps in surprise.

   “I snuck in the s-s-servants quarters.” She adds with a shiver. 

   “Come.” Camila commands, pulling the woman away from her hiding place.

   Rose’s eyes flicker shut as she attempts to look around.

   “Guard!” Camila calls for the first guard she sees and he turns to immediately, “Fetch me a medic and assistance, please. Hurry!” 

   He starts to talk into his comlink as he quickly approaches them.

   “Help is coming, Senator.” The guard says, “How can I assist you?”

   “Support her other side, she may pass out any second.” He’s quick to follow her command and they begin to walk Rose towards her part of the palace as they are closer.

   “You’re new, aren’t you?” Camila addresses the guard, “What’s your name?” 

   The guard turns to her and gives her a small smile, “Tristan, m’lady.” 

   “It is a pleasure to meet you, Tristan.” 

   Rose groans between them as they continue to lead her and soon enough a few guards and a medic appear, running towards them.

   “Set her down.” The medic orders and Camila and Tristan do as she says.

   The medic – who Camila recognised as Yamiz, one of the well known doctors in the palace and formerly one of her handmaidens – crouches down in front of Rose and opens her pack. Camila begins to tell them what she thinks is wrong and what Rose had told her, skipping out the parts about Rose’s father.

   Soon enough, Yamiz stands and orders the guards to pick her up. 

   “I’ll take her back to the medical wing to treat her properly. She needs fluids and rest, and she has a few broken ribs. Her left ankle and wrist have hairline fractures and she’s covered in bruises. She also had a fever. Do you know what could have caused them?” Yamiz asks.

   Camila shakes her head, “A fight possibly. Or the crash landing. Rose couldn’t tell me much. She struggled to speak.”

   Yamiz nods in understanding, “Very well. I’ll get to work setting the fractures and breaks immediately. I shall let you know when you can visit, m’lady.”

   “Thank you, Yamiz.” Camila says and the others bow their heads. 

   Yamiz ushers the guards and they hurry away, leaving Camila in Tristan’s company.

   “Thank you for your help, Tristan. It’s greatly appreciated.” Camila turns to him, a small smile gracing her red lips.

   “That’s okay, Senator. It’s what I’m here for.” He gives her a boyish smile and bows.

   She nods at him and walks away, theories of what Rose’s father may have done to her filling her mind. She hadn’t seen the older woman in a while, the blonde having often been fighting in the war or protecting Padmé, and while Camila had been close friends with the Naboo Senator, Rose was excellent at blending in and trusted the Naravian Senator completely to be with Padmé on their own. Thinking of Rose now, led Camila to think of Rose’s sisters. She wonders if Elina still works in the Senate, having not seen her in over a year. Rose’s youngest sister, Chani, Camila only hopes that she is safe on Naboo and not pulled into the Empire’s schemes. The teenager was only young and remembers the trauma the girl had faced when the Trade Federation had invaded. Chani had spent several days on Naravi IV before returning and had remained in contact with Camila until the war. Oh, she hopes Chani is safe from her father.  

   Camila walks into her living room, smiling immediately as her eyes lock onto Alba lounging on the couch, the young girl’s feet resting against the back as her hair dangles off the edge.

   “Hey, Mama!” The five year old greets as Camila walks over to her.

   “Hiya, baby! Have a good day?” She asks, coming to sit beside her daughter.

   “Yeah, it was great! We were working on our alphabet and drawing.” Alba begins. Camila listens closely as Alba begins to tell her about what she did at school, momentarily distracting the Senator from the blonde in the infirmary.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

yes, i made at least five new characters while writing this book. And i'm sorry to say that the Palpatine story line has not left the planning stage and probably won't for a while, but it's an idea ive toyed with for a couple years. I HATE PALPS SO MUCH BRO!!!!

I love including little snippets of pre-senator and pre-war Mila. And she's such a mum, even to her own aunt.

Chapter 30: lost in the stars

Summary:

rex returns and rhoswen awakens...

 

 

l’avoir elle, c’est avoir les étoiles – to have her is to have the stars

 

 

    He never lets himself get lost in the stars. It isn’t in him to just have the freewill to wander across the galaxy with no destination. He wasn’t programmed like that and even now, without his chip, he isn’t that sort of person. However, gazing out of the cockpit and staring at the stars now makes him think about it. The stars are maps, leading people across the galaxy, paving the ways for adventure and new beginnings. They’d led him, his brothers and the Jedi for five years. He’d been all over the galaxy during the war. He’d seen so many different cultures and people, and witnessed life unlike the way he’d been raised. Because, of course, who would be raised the way he was. Training, day in, day out, living in barracks, being programmed, watched carefully by Lama Su and Nala Se. Only his brothers know what that was like and now almost all of them either serve the Empire or are dead. Half his battalion had been killed during Order 66, he and Ahsoka were the sole survivors. Not a day goes by when he doesn’t think of his brothers. All of them. 

   With her, though, he would love to get lost in the stars. Every free moment during the war, his thoughts had always returned to her. She’d taken up every waking moment, she’d consumed his dreams… and his nightmares. He’d missed her greatly. She had his heart without even knowing it. She led the way through the stars for him and she was each one of them. Every planet, every star, every inch of life . And he loved her for it. And he still does to this day. Every thought, every pulse, every beat of his damaged heart is for her. He is hers. Every single fibre of his body belongs to her. And she doesn’t even know it. He loves her. Always has, always will. Even if she doesn’t love him back. Everything he does is for her. Her and their daughter. 

   Oh, their daughter. He can say so much about their daughter and still not be able to describe his love for her. After everything, he found out that he had her. A part of him. She is every good part of him, every bright part of her. She has her beauty, her smile. But she has his eyes. His biggest regret is not being able to be there for them both until now. He would give every part of him to her. To both of them. They deserve so much. So much that he can’t give. 

   He doesn’t deserve them, no matter what she may say to him. He loves them, though. That can never change. 

   Moving away from the cockpit, he enters the hull of the ship and spots his brothers playing a game of dejarik. They are on their way to Naravi IV to drop him off and then return to their ‘base’. It isn’t really much of a base, just an old fortress-like building they are using so they aren’t piling everyone onto the ship. They greet him with a nod, and he replies similarly, walking past to go into the barracks. His thoughts still linger on Camila and their daughter, pushing past his attempts to be rid of them, in favour of a clear head. 

   He sits on his cot, staring at the pile of armour in the corner of the room, his helmet balanced on top. The visor stares back at him as he watches it, his thoughts running wild. He is worried about the upcoming conversation that’s bound to happen when he arrives. They had promised each other and he hopes she will go through with it. But now he is becoming reluctant. He’s wanted to talk about things with her for months. Now, when she seems ready, he wonders if he can really do it. He loves her. Maybe now, she’ll love him back. Fully. Truthfully. Like he does her. 

   But one can only hope.

 

   The ship docks at the Naravi IV Palace Docks. No one greets them, as expected, but the control tower had let them through regardless. Camila had clearly put his ship on their logs. Despite no one standing on the platform, Rex knows that guards still watch. This is the Royal Palace after all. 

   Rex collects his things and, after a few lengthy conversations to final things with his brothers, he walks towards the exit, only stopping to watch his ship depart and fly away. 

   He remains mostly in his head while he walks through the palace halls. Guards notice it’s him and pay no mind, despite the cloak hiding his armour. He pauses outside of the door to the Senatorial Wing and looks up to spot Camila’s Lieutenant. Hazeen gives him a friendly grin and the door slides open. 

   Rex walks in and is greeted by his daughter, laying across one of the couches, sat opposite to Nanij, the pair playing some kind of hologame. 

   They both look up when he enters and Alba lets out a squeal, running over to him.

   “Daddy!” 

   Rex walks over and puts his bag down, just in time to catch Alba in his arms.

   “Alba!”

   Alba’s little arms wrap his neck and he smiles, softly, into her hair. He then puts her back down and she grabs his hand.

   “Come on, Daddy. We’re playing battleships.” She drags him over to the coach, only allowing him enough time to move his bag from the floor to the couch opposite. He sits down by the board, Nanij sending him a nod in greeting, and Alba climbs up to sit on his lap.

   “Do you know how to play, Daddy?” She asks. Rex shakes his head, “That’s alright, I’ll show you.”

   “We’ve each got these ships,” She begins, “And we have to guess where Nanij has put hers so we can make them explode and win!” 

   Rex nods in understanding and watches as Alba and Nanij continue their game, his previous nervousness disappearing.

 

 

    Her foot taps on the floor and her hands clasp and unclasp, anxiously. Rhoswen had gotten out of surgery an hour ago but she is yet to awaken. Camila watches the rise and fall of her chest, accompanied by the steady beat of the heart rate monitor, reassuring her that Rose is alive and that she’s healing from her injuries. 

   She’s been friends with many Naboo families for years; the Palpatines, the Naberries, the Bibbles. Now, she barely has any contact with them. After Padmé’s death, she’d lost contact with the Naberries, and Sio Bibble, the Governor of Naboo, has been reluctant with his offworld contacts. The Emperor was born on Naboo and it’s no surprise that he wants their allegiance, despite Queen Apailana’s efforts. The Queen doesn’t want to put her people at risk, much like Queen Elvira’s ideals, but Naboo is the Emperor’s home planet. They don’t have much of a choice. She hopes that the Naberries and many families are safe, she hates that she can’t assist Padmé’s family.

   A groan to her right pulls her out of her thoughts and she looks up. Rose’s eyes flicker open and she attempts to sit up but Camila is quick to stop her.

   “Take it easy, Rose. You’re recovering.” She says.

   Rose blinks at her, confused, before sighing and relaxing.

   “What the hell happened?” She asks.

   “You fainted and Yamiz had to reset your bones. You’ve been on a drip for ages to replenish your fluids.” Camila tells her.

   “What bones?” 

   “A few broken ribs and your left ankle and wrist both have hairline fractures.” She gestures at the casts and then to the drip beside her.

   “Shit.” Rose curses with a sigh, “I didn’t think it was that bad.”

   “I’m surprised you stayed conscious for so long.” Camila chuckles, softly, “You Jedi.” She rolls her eyes and Rose grins, faintly. 

   They fall quiet for a second before Rose speaks up.

   “Have you heard from anyone in the Order who may have survived?”

   Camila sighs and leans back in her seat. She debates telling Rose about Master Kenobi and Master Yoda, but double guesses herself, knowing they may not want to be found. Instead, she shakes her head and Rose looks away, clearly disappointed.

   “And Padmé?”

   The question makes her stall and Camila stares at the ground.

   “P-Padmé, she, erm..” Camila begins.

   “I mean, I know she was pregnant but my Fath— the Emperor hasn’t really told me anything.” 

   “Padmé, she-she died. In childbirth.” Camila looks up, tears welling in her eyes as she meets Rose’s shocked ones.

   “What?” She mutters.

   “Yeah, erm, no one is really sure what happened but she went after Anakin and they…” Camila trails off, trying to blink away her tears, “They died together.” 

   A tear trickles down her cheek and she’s quick to wipe it away. 

   Rose can’t know about the twins. No one can know. Bail’s voice rings in her head and she blinks quickly. 

   “Oh.” Rose’s eyes flicker shut and her non-casted hand grips the sheets.

   “I’m sorry.” Camila mutters.

 

   Later on, Camila walks through the halls of the Palace, taking the long root back to her wing. Her thoughts are cruelly playing every moment she had spent with Padmé when her best friend had been alive. The pair had become Senators together, she’d been around when Padmé was Queen, joining her aunt’s trip to Naboo, she’d helped assist refugees after the Invasion. Her and Padmé had been each other’s confidants in the Senate. They’d been there for each other more times then she could count. Camila had loved her. After Jayana, she was the first to know about Padmé’s marriage and Padmé had been the first to know about her and Rex. And Alba. They were a united front, all throughout the Clone War, and losing the woman, who was like a sister to her, had broken a part inside of her. They may not have been biological but they were sisters in every way. 

   Oh, she misses her so much. 

   A tear trickles down Camila’s face as she walks and this time she doesn’t wipe it away. She enters her part of the palace and gives her Captain a reassuring smile when he gives her a concerned look. She pauses outside of her front door, her eyes squeezing shut. 

   “Milady?”

   “I’m fine, thank you, Lieutenant.”

   Lieutenant Hazeen stands beside the door, watching her cautiously. When she shoots him a stern look, he backs away slightly but the worried look on his face remains.

   “Captain Rex is here, ma’am.” He informs her instead. Her mouth opens in surprise but she quickly snaps it shut and gives him a nod in thanks.

   “Thank you, Lieutenant.”

   He nods and the door slides open. Camila walks in and immediately spots Rex and Alba playing battleships against Nanij. They all look up when she arrives and Camila quickly pulls on a cheerful smile.

   “My lady.” Nanij nods in greeting as Alba waves her over.

   “Mama! Come look! Daddy and I are winning!” 

   “Are you? That’s great, Alla.” She smiles at her daughter and sits on the couch opposite.

   Rex watches her do so and when she meets his eyes, he gives her a look of concern.

   “Are you alright?” He asks.

   “Fine.” She smiles back at him but she knows he can see right through it.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

REX IS SO IN LOVE WITH HERRRRRRRR. He loves their little family.

And poor Mila. Her and Padme were so close!!! I really want to write them because their friendship is beautiful. She misses her sister 3

Also, Alba is the glue that holds her parents together.

This will be the last chapter for today. Might post more tomorrow. <33

Chapter 31: secrets

Summary:

Mila finally talks to Rex…

 

 

 

sed syreni lacrimas non habet et ideo multo magis patitur – but a mermaid has no tears, and therefore she suffers so much more

 

 

 

   Night came quickly and soon enough Alba had been put to bed. Camila stands on her balcony, overlooking the city. Lanterns and candles illuminate the streets and homes giving out a sense of comfort to her. Her thoughts continue to linger on Rose and Padmé, occasionally drifting to Padmé’s children too; Luke and Leia. She wonders how Luke is. The young boy had been sent to live with his family on Tatooine but Camila wishes she had asked to take him instead. Him and Leia would be raised near each other and one day would be able to fight side by side against the Empire. Plus, Alba would love a sibling. 

   “What are you thinking about?” 

   The soft question startles her and she turns to spot Rex leaning against the entrance to the balcony. He’s watching her with a knowing and concerned look on his face, the same expression he’s had since she arrived.

   “Oh, nothing.” She replies, turning back to the city, “It doesn’t matter.”

   “Except that it obviously does.” He walks over to stand next to her.

   She doesn’t say anything and she can almost feel his eyes burning holes into the side of her head. While she looks at the city, he’s looking at her.

   “C’mon. Talk to me, Mila.” He urges, softly.

   She sighs faintly and turns to him. She looks up at him and his eyes immediately soften. 

   “What is it?” He asks, one of his hands coming up to stroke the back of hers.

   “It– It’s just…” She looks away and his hand gently takes hers, urging her to continue, “Padmé’s dead.”

   She turns back to him and he stares in shock.

   “She died at the end of the war.” She says, softly.

   “What?” He frowns and she nods.

   “And– and Rose turned up today.” She adds.

   “Rose? Rose Palpatine?!” He asks, “What is she doing here?”

   “Her father. He, erm, tried to kill her and she couldn’t go back to Naboo so she came here.” She says and his jaw clenches.

   “She could put everyone here in danger. If Palpatine finds out where she is, you could get in trouble for harbouring a fugitive.” He says, angrily.

   “I know, I know. But I couldn’t let her die.” She defends, “She was stumbling around the halls, half dead. Her ship crash landed here. She’s staying in the hospital wing.”

   He lets out a breath, glancing back at the rest of the palace, before looking back at her.

   “She better not harm you.” He threatens, softly, and a smile appears on her face.

   “Why didn’t you tell me about Padmé?” He asks next, switching the subject.

   She sighs and shrugs, “Because.”

   “Because I’ve tried so hard not to think about her and telling Rose that she died just brought all the memories back… and all the secrets.” She shakes her head slightly as the tears return and Rex lifts his other hand to rub his thumb against her hand that’s on the balcony. 

   “What secrets?” 

   She stares at him for a few seconds, debating on whether or not to tell him. He is here. She promised she would talk to him. This is the first step in that.

   Do you trust me?

   His words from the pool come back to her and, just like then, she replies the same in her head.

   Yes.

   “Padmé was pregnant.” She tells him, her voice pretty much a whisper as she confesses one of her deepest secrets, “She died giving birth to twins.”

   He stares down at her, complete shock evident on his face. 

   “Anakin’s?” He whispers and she nods.

   He looks down at the floor, not blinking, and she watches him. 

   “The children were split up and hidden away.” She continues, “Only Bail and I know the truth.” 

   She pauses before continuing.

   “Bail, me, Master Kenobi and Master Yoda.”

   His eyes snap up to meet her. There are tears in them and this time she’s the one that comforts him.

   “General Kenobi is alive? And Yoda?” She nods and he lets out a heavy breath. He lifts a hand and runs it over his buzzed blonde hair.

   They fall into a comfortable silence, Rex processing what she has just told him and her watching him do so. 

   “Are there any other survivors?” He asks.

   “No idea,” She shrugs, turning back to the city, “I hope so.”

   He nods and another silence falls over them. 

   “Are we going to talk about it?” His question fills the air and her eyes flicker shut for a second. 

   In her distraction about Padmé, she’s completely forgotten her promise.

   She looks over to him and releases a faint sigh. 

   “Now? After what I just told you?” She asks, quietly.

   Rex’s hands drop from hers and he turns to face the city. His head moves to look out towards the farm fields. He releases a slow breath through his teeth. 

   Camila raises a finger to rub the bridge of her nose. She then pulls her hands away from the ledge of the balcony and tucks them into her sleeves. 

   “I thought we’d agreed to talk about this, Mila.” He says, softly.

   “Is that why you came back?” She asks, looking down at the ground.

   “Mila.” Rex sighs, looking at her. She continues to stare at the ground so he moves to face her properly.

   “Mila, I didn’t just come to talk but I want to sort this out. You promised me, we could sort this out.” He reminds her.

   “I know, Rex. I’m sorry. My promise slipped my mind, I couldn’t stop thinking about Padmé.” She defends, looking up at him, “I wanted to sort this when my mind was clearer. When I could argue, without being distracted, and defend myself without missing my point.”

   He bites back a grin but she notices and a smile appears on her lips, making him copy her at the sight of it. 

   “I understand. I’m sorry.” He takes a small step towards her, interrupting her defence. 

   Her shoulders release their tension and her hands relax to her sides again. Rex moves one of his hands to grab one of hers but pauses, allowing it to hover by her side. Camila’s eyes flicker shut for a second before she steps forwards and rests her head against his chest. His arms are quick to wrap around her waist, bringing her comfort and warmth as she turns her head. She hears his heartbeat pick up and she smiles. 

   “I am sorry, Rex.” She murmurs, her fingers looping through the loops of his belt. 

   “What for?” He asks, his chin gently resting on top of her head.

   “For shutting you out. For blaming you. I should have supported you.” She admits.

   He chuckles and she adjusts her head as he does so. 

   “You have nothing to be sorry for, Mila. You had every reason to do those things.” He says, “I cut you off, thinking it would protect you, when it only made things worse. I should have come back. I should have done things properly.”

   He sighs and pauses.

   “I should have never left you, Mila.” He whispers, pressing a kiss into her hair. 

   “We can’t change the past, Rex.” She says, looking up at him, “Only the future.”

   “And how will that future go, Mila?” He asks, “Together? Or forced to be?”

   She sighs and moves to step away but his hands on her shoulders prevent her from doing so. 

   “Camila, please.” He begs, “Everytime we are alone it ends in an argument. My feelings for you have not changed.”

   “Do you want to be together because of your feelings? Or because of Alba?” She asks.

   He looks down and she raises a hand to his shoulder.

   “Rex. I have thought about this so many times, believe me.” She says, “But everytime I go through it in my head, I realise how difficult this is. Us. We may want this to work but there are so many things stopping it.”

   His eyes flicker to hers.

   “Rex, I…” She trails off, trying to figure out a way to admit it. 

   I miss you.

   She wants to say it but the words won’t leave her lips.

   He watches her expectantly, waiting. 

   “I…” She continues to stumble over her words and he sighs. 

   “It may be difficult but we can make it work. And not just for Alba, but for us too.” He says.

   Her eyes flicker between his and her hand falls to his chest. They go silent, just staring at each other. Taking every inch of the other’s face into account. Even now, they managed to say more to each other than ever. 

   “Do you really think this will work?” She whispers, eyes wide, “if we try again? How much faith do you have in us?”

   “It’s worked so far.” He remarks, “I have faith in us. Do you?”

   Her eyes flicker between his and a soft smile works its way onto her lips.

   “I think so.” 

   His smile mirrors hers. She steps forward and leans into his chest again. His thumb strokes the small gap in her dress on her back, while he rests his head against hers. 

 

   The following morning, Camila awakens with a gentle smile on her lips. The quiet conversation with Rex still plays in her mind. She’s glad they’ve finally started to resolve things. The idea of them being together brought butterflies to her stomach. Along with some anxiety…

   She’s up early and decides to wake Alba. 

   “Alla.” Camila gently shakes her daughter.

   It takes a minute or so before Alba releases a tired groan and turns over to face her. 

   “Mama?” The blonde’s eyes open and she squints up at Camila, tiredly, “What is it?”

   “Do you want to come and eat breakfast with me this morning, Alla?” 

   Alba sits up and nods, quickly. 

   “Yes, please, Mama.” With her tooka doll in hand, she jumps off the bed and grabs Camila’s hand. 

   Camila grins and snatches Alba’s dressing gown from where it’s hanging in the wall. 

   “Slow down.” She chuckles, handing the gown to her daughter. 

   Alba quickly pulls it on and then takes her hand again. 

   “We have ages.” Camila adds as Alba leads them to the dining room. 

   A friendly, non-stop conversation carries them through breakfast and Camila can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia. Breakfast, just the two of them, reminded Camila of the first year in which Alba was born. Back when it was just the two of them, the servants and the maids mostly left them alone. She had wanted to raise Alba by herself as much as she possibly could. War made that difficult, however, and during the following years, Camila found it harder and harder to see her daughter so often. She had a job and it stole her away from raising her child. That’s one thing she’s glad that Rex wasn’t around during the war. He wouldn’t have been able to see her as often and if he had died or something had happened to him, Camila wouldn’t be the only one mourning him. 

   Rex joins them just as they’re finishing breakfast. He seems surprised that they’re both up before him. He greets them nonetheless and settles in the chair beside Alba, the one that had been deemed his not long after he’d come back. 

   “Daddy. Me and Mama are going to play in the gardens.” Alba informs him.

   “Really? Mama’s gonna play?” He raises an eyebrow at Camila and she rolls her eyes.

   “Yes. Mama is going to chase me through the maze.” Alba declares.

   Camila rubs a hand across her face and Rex chuckles. 

   “I’m sure you will both have so much fun.” He says.

   “You are more than welcome to join us, Rex.” Camila says, leaning against her arm.

   “Oh, yes! Daddy, please, come with us!” Alba begs, grabbing his hand, “You can help, Mama. We’re going to play hide and seek.”

   “How many games are we playing, Alla?” Camila asks, playfully rolling her eyes.

   Alba giggles and shakes Rex’s arm.

   “Please, Daddy!” She pleads.

   “Yeah. Please, Rex.” Camila joins, grinning at him.

   He looks between them, letting his eyes linger on his former lover a bit longer. He then rolls his eyes and nods at Alba.

   “Very well, then. I’ll join you.”

   “Yay!” Alba cheers and climbs off her chair, “I’m going to go and get ready!”

   She runs out of the room and the parents laugh. Camila starts to tidy the plates away as Rex eats his breakfast.

   “You were up early this morning.” He says. 

   “Yeah, I know. Don’t know why, I just couldn’t get back to sleep.” She tells him.

   He nods and eats some Porg meat.

   “Are you sure you’re okay with joining us?” Camila asks, “You don’t have to. I know you don’t sleep well and you must be exhausted after everything you do for your brothers.”

   He smiles at her, “I don’t mind, Mila. It’ll be nice.”

   She nods and smiles back, before disappearing into the kitchen. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

We’re making progress!! Mila indulges her secrets to Rex. Rex just won’t let anything go!! I love him, it’s fine. And they get better.

Also Alba’s so excited to spend time with her mother. just want to clarify that Mila isn’t neglective, she’s just very busy and she tries really hard to spend time with Alba despite that.

had to upload this on my phone because i’m away at the moment. might post the next chapter on sunday when i’m home :) enjoy!

Chapter 32: the maze

Summary:

alba challenges her parents to hide and seek...

 

 

hoc somnium quod plantatum est in corde tuo causa – that dream was planted in your heart for a reason

 

   The family of three wander through the palace gardens, just as they said they would. Alba pops in and out of the hedgerows, causing Rex and Camila to faux being surprised. Eventually they make it to the maze at the back of the gardens and the three stand by the entrance.

   “Okay, I have a plan!” Alba spins around to face them and they share looks of amusement.

   “I’m going to run in and one minute later-” she holds up a finger, “-you both will follow me!”

   “You’re giving yourself a one minute head start?” Rex asks.

   Alba nods.

   “Alright.” Camila straightens with a shrug.

   “Okay.” Alba turns back to the maze, “Ready, set, go!”

   She sprints away and Camila starts the countdown on her watch. 

   “Do you know the way out of here?” Rex asks.

   “Vaguely.” She replies, “I don’t have all the time in the world to memorise the route through the maze.” 

   Rex rolls his eyes, “Okay. Ha ha.” 

   Camila laughs and receives a playful nudge from him. The timer on her watch goes off and the two wander into the maze. They turn left first, just like Alba did.

   “This is when we need the Force on our side.” Rex remarks and Camila hums in agreement.

   “Do you think she’s gotten lost?” Camila asks after a while, slightly concerned.

   “She’s played in these gardens enough times to know what she’s doing.” Rex reassures her, “She’s fine. We just have to find her. That’s the game.”

   They continue walking, listening out for faint giggles and trying to get Camila to remember the route out. Eventually they reach the centre of the maze.

   “This feels hopeless.” Rex says.

   They both laugh and scan the other entrances.

   “Alba!” Camila calls, “Can you, at least, give us a clue?”

   “Nope!” 

   Both of their heads turn in the direction of the reply.

   “Did you get that?” Camila asks.

   Rex nods.

   “This way.”

   Rex leads the way through the tunnels in the direction that Alba had replied from. His soldier instincts seem to have kicked in when he falls silent, his attention purely on the hunt. He stops suddenly and looks around at the hedged walls.

   “Pretty sure this was it.” He says.

   “Well it’s okay if you’re wrong. You’re not Hunter.” Camila reassures, standing beside him.

   “You think I’m wrong?” He asks, turning to her.

   “Not really.” She shrugs, “I just think it was the next corridor over.”

   He crosses his arms, “Really? And why is that?”

   “Because that’s where she replied from.”

   “She replied from here.” He gestures at the corridor they’re in.

   “Then where is she?” Camila replies.

   “How should I know?” He asks, uncrossing his arms, “She has legs. She probably walked, or ran, away.”

   Camila rolls her eyes and turns away.

   “Then this is a wild goose chase. I thought we were finding a way out.”

   “Yeah.” Rex nods, “By finding her.”

   “There are over a dozen corridors and probably multiple exits to this nature walk so she could quite literally be anywhere in this maze.” Camila retorts.

   “That would have been useful to know earlier.”

   She huffs and walks away.

   “Where are you going?” He asks, throwing his hands in the air.

   “To find our daughter.”

   Rex groans and begrudgingly follows.

   “At least you said ‘our daughter’.” He mutters under his breath, “We’re never going to find her.”

   “At least we have hope that we will.” She replies.

   “How did you hear that?” He stares after her in surprise, the distance between them was at least a couple metres and he wasn’t shouting.

   “Mum ears.”  

   He rolls his eyes and mutters something about how that’s a myth. Camila comes to a stop in the neighbouring corridor and looks around.

   “Looks like she’s not here either.” Rex retorts.

   “Oh, shut up.” She grumbles. 

   She slowly walks down the corridor and then stops again.

   “What is it?” He asks, still standing at the entrance to the corridor.

   “I think I found something.” She says. 

   She picks something up from the floor and holds it up to show him.

   “I can’t see it.” He says.

   “Then get over here.”

   He rolls his eyes and jogs over.

   “What is it?” He asks again.

   She places it flat in her palm and he lifts her hand slightly higher to see it.

   “A brooch?” He questions.

   “The same brooch she was wearing this morning.” She reminds him.

   “Is this turning into a treasure hunt?” He groans.

   “I hope not.”

   “Can we have a clue, please, Adi’ka?” Rex shouts. 

   “Why?” She shouts back.

   Camila points in the direction it came from and they both start running towards the sound.

   “Because you’re so good at this game, Alla.” Camila replies.

   “But if I help then wouldn’t that be cheating?” She asks.

   “No. Just assistance.” Rex calls.

   “‘Assistance’ and ‘help’ mean the same thing.” Camila tells him.

   “I know that.” 

   “So does she.” She rolls her eyes.

   He shrugs at her and she stifles a laugh. 

   “Did you drop your brooch on purpose, baby?” Camila shouts.  

   “No…” Alba trails off and the parents share a look. 

   That was an obvious lie. But they’re getting closer. They both slow down and come to a stop. Rex gestures one way for her and the other for him and they both split up. 

   “Are you sure, Alla?” Camila calls out.

   “Mama?” 

   Camila grins to herself, coming around to one side of the corridor she can tell Alba’s in. 

   “Yes, Alba?” 

   There’s faint footsteps. Camila moves quickly running round the corner. There’s a scream, followed by a loud laugh. Camila runs into the adjacent corridor to see Alba in Rex’s arms halfway down. They’re both laughing and a small smile quickly appears on Camila’s face.

   “We found you!” Camila cheers, jogging over to them. 

   Rex stands with Alba still in his arms, and swings the young girl over his shoulder. The parents laugh as Alba begins to protest.

   “Daddy! Put me down!” She says, not able to stop the laughter in her voice.

   “Yeah-no! You’re not going anywhere.” Rex replies, turning around. 

   “Which way, little miss?” Camila asks as they come to a stop at a crossroad in the maze.

   “Not sayin’.” Alba lets herself go limp on Rex’s shoulder. 

   The clone captain rolls his eyes and shares a look with Camila.

   “We’ll just walk around then.” He says and turns right. 

   Camila rolls her eyes. She follows after him, stifling a groan. They continue to walk in circles, Alba still refusing to tell them how to get out. Camila tries to remember the way but, with the inability to tell where they were, she doesn’t know if her suggestions were actually correct.

   Rex comes to a stop and lets out a noise of frustration.

   “Can you just tell us, Alba?” Camila asks.

   “Nope.”

   “You are so stubborn.” Rex says, “Just like your mother.” 

   Camila elbows him in the ribs.

   “Ow!” He shoots her look and she crosses her arms over her chest.

   “If I put you down, will you tell us the way out, Adi’ka?” Rex asks their daughter.

   “Maybe.” Alba giggles.

   Camila comes to stand behind Rex and crouches to make eye contact with the girl.

   “Alba…” She warns.

   Alba grins, cheekily, at her mother. Camila rolls her eyes.

   “Put her down.” She taps Rex’s arm and the clone does as she says.

   Alba stands in front of them and the parents stare at their daughter.

   “Well?” Rex says.

   “Well, what?” Alba smiles, innocently, swaying from side to side.

   “Alba Alora Ri’vane. You will tell us how to get out of here, right now.” Camila orders her, sternly, placing her hands on her hips and raising a perfect eyebrow.

   Alba’s smile disappears and her shoulders droop.

   “Fine.”

   The five year old spins on her heel and starts to walk away. Camila turns to Rex with a sly smile.

   “That was very attractive.” He smirks slightly and follows after Alba.

   Camila blushes before walking to join them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

they fight like an old married couple but still flirt like teenagers. i will remind everyone that they are in their early twenties still (mila had alba at 19)

so anyway, here is a fluff filled chapter. just getting ready before shit goes downhill going into season three...

i will spam update a couple chapter because it's been a week. hope you enjoy :))

Chapter 33: a promise

Summary:

mila has a new bill idea...

 

 

ego dilexi te prius habui viscera ut scias – i loved you long before i had the guts to let you know

 

 

   Camila stares at the list of numbers in front of her. She taps quickly against the keyboard, transferring some funds, regretfully. The Banking Clan have been on her ass about taxes and now she’s finally gotten around to it, she is not happy about the price they have set.

   Her eyes look over to their symbol in the top corner; she rolls her eyes and changes the tabs. Her comm begins to beep and Camila straightens in her seat. She reaches over to answer it, schooling her fed-up expression into one of calmness and professionalism. 

   Senators Mothma and Organa both appear in front of her and she relaxes slightly.

   “Senators. How are you?” She pushes a few papers to the side, clasping her hands together on her desk.

   “Well, thank you, Senator Ri’vane.” Mon replies as Bail gives Camila a reassuring smile, “What was it you wanted to talk to us about?”

   “I was hoping we could discuss a bill or proposal that could help the clones that are being replaced. They have spent five years fighting for the Republic and additional months defending the Empire.” Camila grimaces slightly at the mention of the new galactic organisation, “What will happen to them now?”

   “You make a fine point, Mila.” Bail agrees, “The future of the clones doesn’t seem promising but we must keep in mind how they turned on the Jedi. The Emperor still holds some control over them.”

   Mon nods along and Camila drums her fingers against her desk. 

   “Yes, if we were to find a way to help them, what is to say that the Emperor won’t find some to get rid of them or of us?” says Mon. 

   Camila sighs and bites her lip, “I see what you mean, Senators. If we were to find a way to help them but disguise it differently, perhaps that may have better results. The Empire’s new stormtrooper program relies on civilians and while some of the clones are helping to train them, many of them are beginning to see the wrongs of their ways. We must help them before it is too late.”

   She remembers everything that Rex has told her about the clones and what Hazel and Echo discovered on Daro. She’s fought beside clones and despite all they have done, they didn’t deserve to just be thrown down the garbage chute. 

   “What did you have in mind, Senator Ri’vane?” Mon asks. 

   “During the war, Senator Chuchi and I pushed for a bill that gave clones a pension and a way to live their life once the war ends.” Camila reaches over her desk to the holo tablet; the bill is displayed on the screen and she is quick to send it to the two Senators, along with her ideas for the new proposal. She watches them both look down at a device in front of them, “It wasn’t fully approved and now that the war has ended it has been forgotten, most likely on purpose. I was hoping to use this to create a bill that would provide some sort of home and pension for the clones and to grant them a choice to retire, continue to assist the Empire or make their own way in the galaxy.”

   Camila waits patiently as they read through the ideas that she has had. Her eyes dart over to the pictures on the shelves adjacent to her. She’s going to help Rex and his brothers in the best way she knows how. Politics.

   “There are many fine points here, Mila.” Bail says, “I agree that this idea is excellent. I’m just not so sure that the Imperial Senate will agree to it. Many of them don’t care for the clones.”

   “Many of them remained in their chambers while they fought the war for them.” Camila remarks.

   “Bail makes a good point, Camila.” Mon says, “You will have to word this really well and get a great number of allies to this bill before you propose it.”

   Camila sighs, “Yeah, I know. But I can’t abandon them. I just can’t.”

   They both nod in understanding. 

   “I will help you with this.” Bail says, “I’m sure Riyo will as well.”

   “As will I.” Mon agrees.

   “Thank you.” Camila smiles at them both before the call ends. She looks over to the pictures again and smiles softly at Rex and Alba. She’s going to help his brothers. That’s a promise.

 

   Alba’s asleep by the time Camila is done for the day – much like most of the days that week. Camila had been busy with work since Rex had left a couple weeks ago and, while she’s tried to spend as much time with her daughter as she could, Camila can tell that it’s affecting Alba, despite her going to school everyday. Wanting some peace to herself, Camila dresses into some civilian clothing and makes her way down to the training rooms in the palace. She walks into the shooting range and immediately starts browsing through the numerous weapons on display. She pulls out a rifle and a hand held blaster and situates herself in one of the lanes. 

   Camila chooses the rifle first, setting herself in position, holding it the way her father had taught her to do so when she was younger. The target activates and Camila is quick to fire a round of shots at it. When she lowers the weapon, a small smile appears on her lips. A hole had been worked through the middle of the target. 

   Picking up the holopad attached to the cage around her, she switches the target out for a new one and adjusts it a few times, before picking up the blaster. She fires a new round of shots, only to see similar results to the rifle. An hour later, Camila's small smile had turned into a grin. Peace and quiet.

   Unfortunately it is disturbed by the beeping of her own holodevice. Camila puts the blaster down and pulls her holopad from its place in her back pocket. Multiple messages have appeared but she ignores them in favour of the one at the top. 

   Bail: Have you seen this?

   She frowns and clicks on the links attached to his message. Video footage appears in front of her: a large Zillo beast wreaking havoc on a grounded imperial ship, a ship, looking very much like the Marauder, flies overhead.

   Bail: The Empire has cloned the Zillo!

   Camila clicks on the message thread. 

   Mila: How did you get this?

   Bail: One of my men got sent it from an imperial spy. Is that your sister’s ship? 

   Mila: I hope not. 

   Mila: How old is this? 

   Bail: A few days.

   Camila pauses and opens the video again. At the end, she watches as troopers seal the beast in a tank.

   Mila: What does this mean?

   Her fingers drum on the table in front of her, itching towards the blaster nearby. 

   Bail: The Empire has a weapon.

   Her heart comes up to her throat and she places the datapad down. A weapon? 

   She runs a hand through her hair. Releasing a groan, she grabs the blaster and fires off another round of shots at the target in front of her.

   “Shit.” She curses loudly. 

   Camila picks the pad up again. She copies the link and sends it to herself in order to forward it on to Rex. 

   This is going to be a problem.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

just a filler.
mentioning the zillo...
mila fighting for clone rights!!! she often tried to do this during the way <3. i recently finished watching Andor so am already coming up with how to incorporate mila in that series (and in rogue one).
mila blowing off steam in the shooting range!

also I PASSED MY GCSEs!!!!!!!! very very happy and i've enrolled in my college (i'm from the uk if you couldnt tell). i'm so happy. but annoyed that the gcse summer is almost over :(

Chapter 34: peace and hope

Summary:

mila takes rhoswen to alderaan...

 

 

non sumus competition quod est locus tuus iuxta me – we are not competition because your place is beside me

 

 

   “It is lovely here. And it’s so peaceful and friendly! Alba would love it.”

   Camila grins at her sister, almost feeling the happiness radiating from her through the holo. 

   “Does this mean you are no longer working for that lizard, Cid?” Camila asks, setting the holo disk on the coffee table in front of her.

   “I don’t know.” Hazel shrugs, “We haven’t really spoken to her but I hope so. She was such a bitch.”

   Camila laughs, hugging a pillow to her chest. On the holo, Hazel seems to wrap a blanket around her shoulders and settle against something.

   “What about you? How have you been?”

   Camila shrugs, her laughter vanishing from her face.

   “Busy. It’s ridiculous, Haze. We’re trying to work for a bill to grant clones their freedom after the Empire writes them off in favour of these new stormtroopers.” She rolls her eyes, “It’s a bit of a joke really because there’s no proper way to present it in order for it to be convincing. If we just straight up tell the Senate the reason for the bill, it will never pass.”

   She leans into the sofa, bringing her knee up to rest her face against it, “I don’t know. It’s hard. I just don’t want to have to bin this bill. It’s too important.”

   “Hey, you’re trying.” Hazel reassures her, “You’re doing your best, Mimi.”

   Camila snorts at the childhood nickname, causing Hazel to laugh. 

   “I knew that would work!” Hazel chuckles and Camila shakes her head.

   Once they settle down again, Camila watches Hazel smile at her, gently.

   “It’s gonna be fine, Mila.”

   “I know.” She sits up with a sigh, “I just hate what’s become of this galaxy. This Republic.”

   “There’s nothing we can do except fight for it. Fight for peace, and hope that our children and our children’s children won’t have to live the same life we do.” Hazel says.

   “Maybe. But I have a feeling that Alba’s going to grow up fighting the same war that her parents did only under a different name.” Camila picks her nails, “We fought a fake war, Hazel, for the wrong side. The separatists fought against us but we all fought for the same forces that control the galaxy now. And those forces beat us all. The separatists didn’t win. We didn’t win.” She shakes her head, “Part of me wishes I could just take Alba and hide in the outer rim.”

   “But you’d come right back because you can’t abandon this fight.” Hazel says.

   “Yeah.” Camila mutters, nodding her head.

   “I love you, Mimi.” Hazel says, gently, “But don’t give up. ‘Cause you and I both know you would hate yourself for not trying. And that is all that you can do. Try and fight for the life Alba deserves. The life you deserve. If Alba is anything like her mother then she will fight alongside you. She is brave, Mi.”

   Camila smiles, sadly, at her sister, “Thanks, biche. I love you too.”

   The holo blinks out and the room falls into darkness again. The light from Naravi IV’s moons and its sister planets shines through the windows, casting shadows across the living room floor.

   Camila stands from the sofa and walks over to the balcony. The window slides up, allowing her onto the terrace. She leans against the railing, slightly, and looks over the city with a solemn expression. She turns from the city and looks to the rest of the Palace. Her aunt, her cousin, what was left of her family, still resides within these walls (Hazel being the exception). She can’t let Asziya and Alba grow up in this war. Hazel’s words ring in her head and Camila sighs. But they didn’t have much of a choice. 

   She then looks in the direction of the medical wing. And Rose. The poor woman had finally finished her long recovery after the injuries that her father had dealt her. She’d begged Camila to take her to Alderaan on her last visit a few days ago, though she never told her why. Camila’s heart aches for her. The clones hadn’t turned on her, just because of who her father was. Instead they forced her into submission, with the help of the Emperor and what was left of the Skywalkers. 

   Camila looks down with a flinch. Padmé was dead. Anakin and Jayana were pretty much gone the same way; Anakin had died on Mustafar, that’s what Obi-Wan had told them. And now Darth Vader stands by the Emperor’s side. A cold, black mask of terror. And Jayana… she had died on Coruscant. Palpatine had killed her, allowing a mean Inquisitor to guide other dark Jedi across the galaxy in her place. Camila hadn’t wanted to believe it when Obi-Wan and Yoda had told her and Bail on Polis Massa, but the High Inquisitor’s attack on the Batch on Kamino had proved her wrong. 

   They were gone. All of them. But she’s still here. And she is fighting for them. For Padmé.

   Camila spares the city a final glance, before turning in for the night. 

 

   The following morning, Camila is up early. She’s dressed in a simple attire: slim blue dress with silver cuffs on her forearms and a ruffled material to cover the gap showing off her cleavage. A silver chain has been weaved into her hair, pulling it into a high bun before a few chains fall down the back of her head and rest against her back – when she moves she can feel the brush against her bare skin where the top half of her dress has been mostly removed at the back. Her silver heels click against the stone floor as she makes her way down to the medical wing. She greets the nurse on duty with a smile, heading towards Rhoswen’s room. 

   Rose is already up and awake when she enters; she’s wearing a red dress with long sleeves covering her healing injuries.

   “Good morning, Rose.” Camila greets, her rings making a noise as she clasps her hands together in front of her. 

   “Senator Ri’vane.” Rose turns to her with a smile.

   “Do you still wish to go to Alderaan?” Camila asks.

   Rose is quick to reply and even quicker to be ready to leave. She follows Camila through the halls and towards the landing pads. 

   The Starbird awaits them on one of the platforms, Captain Narvor conversing with Lieutenant Hazeen outside the ship entrance. They both look up when her shoes announce their approach and bow their head in greeting. 

   “Captain. Lieutenant.” Camila nods at them both, “Are we ready for departure?” 

   “Lieutenant Hazeen will accompany you, my lady. As will Percéval.” Narvor gestures towards a guard standing at the rear end of the ship. He walks towards them and then stops, bringing his feet together and bowing his head.

   Camila nods at him, “Thank you, Captain. We won’t be long.”

   Narvor glances at Rose then back at her.

   “Be careful, Senator. We do not want the Emperor finding out about this.” He says in hushed tones.

   “You have nothing to worry about.” Camila reassures.

   “The Captain was right, she cannot be trusted.” He replies, shooting Rose a look of distrust.

   At the mention of Rex, Camila rolls her eyes but can’t stop the small smile creeping onto her lips. 

   “We will be fine, Captain. Trust me.” She smiles, reassuringly, and he nods reluctantly, stepping away. 

   “Good luck, my lady.” 

   Camila nods at him and follows Rose and Hazeen up the steps, Percéval trailing behind them. Camila and Hazeen settle into the pilot and co-pilot seats and begin the take off sequence. Rose stands between them and Percéval lingers in the doorway.

   “This is the Starbird . Departing now.” Hazeen speaks into the comms.

   “Copy that, Starbird. You’re clear to leave.” the Control Tower replies and the ship lifts from the grounds. The two guide it into the atmosphere and into space. They exchange a few words, input the calculations and, after a shared look of confirmation, the Starbird jumps into hyperspace. 

   The journey is relatively short, only around an hour, and Camila doesn’t move from the pilot’s chair. She works on her datapad in silence. Hazeen and Percéval converse in the hull and Rose is curled up in the co-pilot’s seat, staring out at the streaking stars, wrapped in a blanket.

   “What is on Alderaan?”

   Rose looks up, startled. Camila watches her, patiently, her datapad resting against her lap.

   “What is on Alderaan that you have to return to so importantly?” She asks again, “Didn’t you live on Naboo?”

   Rose hesitates, then Camila sees her body relax.

   “Naboo was always my father’s home. And, as much as I loved it, I found comfort on Alderaan many times before and during the war.” She pulls the blanket tighter around her and sighs, “Before I disappear and hide from my father, there’s something there I have to get.”

   She stares, mournfully, at the stars. Camila feels bad for her, her eyes drooping slightly as she rests her head against the back of the chair.

   “Is it to do with Master Kenobi?” She asks, softly.

   When Rose doesn’t reply, Camila can’t help the sympathetic look on her face.

   “I know you two were close. And I hope he survived the Purge.” She forces herself not to think of the red-headed Jedi.

   Rose looks over at her, an unreadable look in her eyes that makes Camila look away.

   “Thank you.” The force-user mutters. Camila shoots her a comforting smile before going back to her work.

   Later, Camila and Lieutenant Hazeen guide the Starbird down to the landing pad outside the Palace. Camila leads the way out of the ship, Rose beside her and the two guards flanking them. Queen Breha and Senator Organa both await them on the pad, a toddler standing between them. 

   “Mimi!” The young girl lets out a squeal and runs towards the Senator, ignoring her mother, who calls her name in protest.

   Camila crouches down and Leia comes flying into her open arms. The Senator hugs her goddaughter, a large smile on her face, and presses a kiss into her hair.

   “Look at you!” She says, pulling away, “Walking and talking! My god!”

   Leia giggles and sways on her feet.

   “And she’s fast.” Breha says, walking over.

   Camila stands with a smile and hugs the woman.

   “They always are. Alba was the same… And she still is.”

   “Well, she’s not crying. So that’s a good thing.” Bail adds, hugging Mila next.

   They then turn to Rose, who waits a few paces away, fiddling with her fingers.

   “Do you remember Rhoswen Palpatine?” Camila asks.

   Bail inches in front of Breha, who pulls Leia towards her. Alderaanian guards edge away from the outside of the pad and towards the group.

   “Woah, it’s okay, Bail.” Camila lifts a hand and gives him a reassuring look, “She’s not here to hurt anyone. She isn’t with the Empire.”

   “She’s his daughter.” Breha hisses.

   “And she barely escaped with her life.” Camila defends.

   “Your majesty, please.” Rose steps forward, her hand in the air, “I’m not here to hurt anyone, I promise you. I just want to collect my son.”

   Camila’s head whips around to the blonde and they all stare at her in surprise.

   “You have a son?” Camila asks, quietly. 

   Rose nods, “I gave birth here and hid him with some of my college friends. They’ve been looking after him whenever I’m away. He was the one thing I couldn’t have my father, or anyone else, find out about.”

   Camila’s eyes widen in realisation. 

   “Obi-Wan?” She asks, nearly whispering.

   Rose’s eyes are filled with tears and she looks down.

   “I apologise, Rhoswen.” Breha steps past her husband and towards the former Sith, “You and your father always seemed close. I had no idea…” She trails off.

   Rose shakes her head.

   “It is not your fault, your majesty. I knew I wouldn’t receive a warm welcome here.”

   “We cannot fault you for who your parents are, Rose.” Camila says, “And we shouldn’t judge you for your past.”

   “You must understand I didn’t have much choice.” Rose defends.

   “It’s okay.” Breha smiles gently, and places a hand on Rose’s shoulder, “Let’s go inside and we can have someone go and collect your son.”

   Breha leads Rose inside, accompanied by her guards. Bail glances at Camila, who shoots him a stern look, before following.

   “Mimi?” Leia’s quiet voice interrupts the silence and Camila grins down at her.

   “Come on, Leia. What shall we do first?” She holds out her hand and the nearly two-year-old giggles then starts to rant in broken Basic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

i have a habit of creating ocs. and new lore... so lore drop!!
obi-wan and rose have a kid. he appears in my luke skywalker fic :)))
and also LEIA!!! I love her so much. i found a picture of carrie fischer in one of my star wars info books and now it's pinned on my wall.
and also Pabu mention. i love Pabu so much. I read star wars sancutuary and it broke me. lets just say. i love tech and phee so much. and hunter 333

Chapter 35: nerves

Summary:

rex reassures mila...

 

 

aqua salsa tenet mysteria quae potest habere sicut tui et mei – salt water holds secrets that can hold the likes of you and me

 

 

   Camila’s words to her Captain had been true and a few hours later, she returned home with her two guards. After being reunited with her son, Breha had opened their home to the Palpatine to allow her to organise herself before going into hiding. Bail had been rather reluctant and it had taken Camila a while to reassure him that Rose could be trusted; she had purposely changed the topic when Bail asked what Rex thought of Rhoswen. 

   When she had returned home the following day, she’d been greeted with a series of messages… from her sister. 

   “What the hell?” Her eyes scan over the messages, not believing what she was reading.

   Crosshair had betrayed the Empire?

   Camila sinks into her office chair. Sibling loyalty is strong but at the end of the war, the sniper had been the only one affected by the chip in the Batch. And Hazel had said the incident on Kamino wasn’t light. Something must have happened to bring the clone to his senses. But a doctor is after the kid. 

   Mila: Do you want to bring Omega here during your mission?

   She stares at the sent message then drops the datapad. Camila leans forward and places her head in her hands. This clone bill is becoming more necessary than ever.

   “Mama?” 

   Camila looks up to see Alba standing in the doorway. She hadn’t even noticed the door open. Alba grips Balba, her doll, under one arm and chews her fingernails on her hand. Camila sighs and gets to her feet. She rounds the table and picks up her daughter.

   “Don’t bite your fingernails, baby, it’s not good for you.” She grabs Alba’s fingers and kisses each one, “You don’t want to bite them all off now, do you?”

   Alba giggles, making Camila grin. Her daughter then places her head in her mother’s neck and wraps her arms around her.

   “I love you, Mama.”

   Camila squeezes her eyes shut, not wanting to cry.

   “I love you more, Alla.”

   Her daughter really does comfort her nerves.

 

   Camila paces in her living room, small noises of frustration leaving her every now and then. It has been hours since she had last heard from her sister’s mission and she’s getting worried. Hazel hasn’t replied to her message about Omega, which never happened. 

   “My lady, you must calm down.” Inej says, “I’m sure Miss Hazel is fine.”

   “It has been over fourteen hours since she last messaged me, Inej. I know my sister. Something is wrong.” Camila points at her handmaiden and continues to pace.

   Inej shares a look with Lieutenant Hazeen.

   “Senator, perhaps you would feel better if you sat? I can get you some caff.” Hazeen offers.

   Camila peers at him for a few seconds before nodding. She then relaxes slightly and drops onto one of the sofas. Hazeen disappears into the kitchen and Inej comes to sit next to her.

   “There is nothing we can do, milady.” Inej says.

   Camila turns her head and smiles.

   “I know.” She says, sadly. Inej reaches over and takes her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Hazeen returns with a steaming mug of caff and hands it to Camila.

   “Please, sit down Lieutenant.” Camila says, humming in delight when she sips on the caff.

   Hazeen sits opposite them and the three fall into silence.

   “I should call Rex.” Camila mutters.

   Inej hands the holopad to her and Mila smiles gratefully.

   “We will give you some space, milady.” She gestures for Hazeen to get up and he does so, quickly.

   “It’s fine, Inej. I will go to my room. Thank you.”

   “Would you like me to stay, Senator?” Inej asks.

   “You can rest but I may need you later. I don’t think I can sleep right now.” Camila replies and Inej nods in understanding. Camila smiles, gratefully, and walks away.

   She walks into her room and places the caff on her bedside table before climbing into bed. She wraps the blankets around her so much that it becomes a kind of cocoon. Her, weirdly, cold fingers wrap around the mug of caff as she props her datapad up in a ruffle in the bed covers. Camila watches the call dial and soon enough, Rex’s face appears. A very tired and weary-looking Rex.

   “Hey.” He greets.

   “Hey, you okay?” She frowns.

   “Better now.” He grins, tiredly, sitting down somewhere.

   Camila blushes, hiding it by sipping her caff.

   “What’s up?” He asks.

   “Do you know about the Batch’s ‘mission’ to Eriadu?” She does air quotes against her mug, pushing away the list of possibilities about her sister that her overthinking has caused her.

   “Yeah.” Rex sighs.

   Camila groans and visibly deflates.

   “I’m really worried, Rex. I messaged her over twelve hours ago and she still hasn’t replied. This is serious.”

   “I know. I know it’s serious. I’m worried too. But she’s strong. They’re going to be fine.” He reassures her.

   Camila looks down, hugging the mug to her chest. Rex watches her silently, glad to see her face.

   “Tell me about Alderaan.” His voice is quiet and soft and Camila immediately feels comfort from it. 

   “Why?” She whispers.

   “Because you need a distraction. And I want to find out how Senator Organa reacted to seeing Palpatine.” Rex leans back in his seat, smiling slightly.

   Camila rolls her eyes, jokingly, but does as he asks. Once she’s finished, she’s leaning against the headboard of her bed, an empty mug of caff on her bedside.

   “You look exhausted, Mila.” He says.

   “Oh.. thanks.” She replies, making him roll his eyes, “I know. So do you.”

   He gives her a tired smile.

   “You should sleep then. You’ll feel better in the morning.” He says.

   “Yeah, but I know I won’t be able to. Plus, I just drank caffeine so… I won’t be asleep for a while.” Her eyes lower and she pulls the blankets tighter around her.

   Rex watches as her eyes droop; he smiles and sinks further into his chair, rubbing a hand across his eyes.

   “You should sleep as well, coeur.” She says, softly.

   Rex tilts his head at the nickname and she lets out a quiet, breathy laugh.

   “What does that mean?” He asks.

   “Just go to sleep.” 

   “Nuh-uh.” He shakes his head, laughing, “Not until you tell me what you just called me. I know it is Naravian.”

   She rolls her eyes, bringing herself down to lay her head on the pillows, resting up behind her.

   “Maybe one day.” She says, her eyes shut.

   He admires her as she rests, and soon finds himself drifting off to sleep. The last thing he hears is quiet foreign words slipping past Camila’s lips as she falls into her own slumber.

   “Tu mes manques, mon coeur.”

   “Tu mes manques…”

 

Notes:

and here we go...
i'm just putting a warning here and a reminder about the season two finale....

ANYWAY, rex and mila are the sweetest. he calms her instantly to the point where she can fall asleep. ALSO, i just want to see that naravian is french and latin words mostly. im slightly familiar with french and most of the nicknames she uses is french and sometimes latin.
'mon coeur' - is 'my heart' in french
'tu mes manques' - is 'i miss you' in french <333
mila has called hazel 'biche' which is deer.
i'll try and remember to include any furture nickname translations, mila has started to relax into their relationship so now the nicknames will come out. there at a good stage... :))

Chapter 36: news

Summary:

rex delivers some news...

 

 

Ego sum coram me quis alius – i am mine before i am anyone else’s

 

 

   The pacing begins again the following morning. Talking to Rex the previous night had calmed and helped her sleep. When she woke up, she saw her tablet had died and she hadn’t gotten around to thanking him yet. However, there has still been no reply from her sister.

   Terrible thoughts had consumed her since. It has been her and sister for so long, that the idea of just losing her caused an unimaginable ache in her chest. She couldn’t lose Hazel. Not like this. 

   “Less than twenty-four hours.” She mutters under her breath, “Less than twenty-four!”

   “Mama!” Alba bounds into the room and the Senator immediately stops to turn to her.

   “Yes, baby?”

   “Will you come with me to the gardens?” Alba asks.

   Camila smiles and nods.

   “Of course.”

   Alba leads the way out of the room and Camila attempts to push her worries out of her mind in favour of spending time with her daughter. Thankfully, it works.

   Alba makes her chase through the gardens, they pick flowers for a new arrangement in the living room and talk about Alba’s school while swinging on the large bench at the end of the garden. Alba plays with a wietia flower as they walk back; the blue petals billow out like a skirt as she spins it in her fingers, making it glow.

   “Watch out for the sap there, Alla.” Camila warns as she pauses to admire some orange roses.

   “It’s not upside down though, Mama.” Alba frowns.

   “It still produces sap when you spin it though, baby. See the glow.” She points at the glowing, blue petals, “Putting it upside down just makes it easier to get the sap out.”

   Her mouth forms an ‘O’ and she stares at the healing flower in her hands, no longer spinning it.

   “Should we head back then, Alla?” Camila asks. Her daughter nods and takes her hand. 

 

   Alba had left to visit Asziya not long after they had returned, and Camila’s worries had appeared again at the front of her mind. Narvor, Hazeen and Inej all stand in the room with her, the four discussing the situation. 

   “I just about understood your worry before, my lady, but now I’m concerned.” Hazeen says.

   Camila makes a face at this. Hazeen is normally the more optimistic of them and if he was getting worried then the situation is serious.

   “That’s really helpful, Tainan.” Inej shoots him a glare and he raises his hands in mock defence. Narvor rolls his eyes at the two.

   “Is there anything we could do?” Inej asks, turning to her then looking over at the Captain.

   “I’ve messaged Echo. And Kaya.” Camila tells her.

   “You’re not going out there, Senator.” Narvor says, knowingly.

   Camila looks at him in annoyance.

   “Hazeen said himself, something is wrong. So something is wrong!” She points out.

   “Yes, I know.” Narvor says, “But we can’t go there! If we openly get involved with something against the Empire, we’ll be in serious trouble.”

   Camila sighs and collapses onto the sofa.

   “I am sorry, my lady.” He says, looking down at her.

   She rubs a hand against her forehead.

   “I know.” She mutters.

   Inej sits beside her, while the two guards hover, and the four fall into silence. Inej takes Camila’s hand and rubs her thumb against the back of it. She then huffs and turns to the hovering boys.

   “By the gods, please, sit down!” She complains, making Mila jump a bit, “Your incessant hovering is really pissing me off.”

   Camila bites down a chuckle, shooting her handmaiden an amused look. The two guards stare at her in shock.

   “Dank farrik, Inej.” Hazeen grumbles, as they sit down opposite, “That was unnecessary.”

   “Yeah.” Narvor shares a look with Hazeen before they both shoot the maid judging glares.

   “Oh, shut up.” Inej replies, shaking her head and glaring back.

   A smile creeps onto Camila’s face at the playful banter, her free hand fiddling with a loose thread on her dress. Her datapad beeps and she’s quick to grab it. The other three sit up straight, watching her in anticipation. 

   Rex: On my way to you! Have news. Twenty minutes out.

   “It’s Rex.” Camila tells them, an unreadable look on her face.

   “What did he say?” Inej asks.

   “He has news.” She looks up, “He’s twenty minutes away.”

   They all share a look of worry and slight relief before the three serving her jump to their feet and begin to busy themselves. Hazeen disappears into the hall to talk to the guards on duty while Narvor pulls out his comlink, quickly talking into it in Naravian and delivering orders. Inej sends a message on her own comm device then turns to Camila. She lifts a hand and smooths the wrinkles between her Senator’s brows.

   “You must relax, my lady. He may bring good news.” Inej reassures her.

   “We can only hope.” Camila replies, solemnly. Inej takes her hands and gives them a gentle squeeze before pulling her to her feet.

   “Come, let's touch up your makeup.”

   Camila shoots her a questioning look. Inej raises a stern eyebrow and her shoulders drop in defeat. She lets herself be led back to her room, willing to welcome the distraction.

 

   Twenty minutes later, Hazeen, Inej and Camila wait in the living room. The former two’s comforting words have since seized and now they only stand in nervous silence. The doors open and they turn. Rex and Captain Narvor walk in. An upset look on the clone’s face.

   “Rex…” Camila rings her hands together with a frown.

   The Clone Captain stares at the ground before slowly bringing his eyes up to look at her.

   “Rex, what happened?” She asks, tightening her jaw when she glimpses the tears in his eyes.

   “There was an incident on their way back to the ship.” He begins.

   Inej grips Camila’s hand, the Senator’s face dropping.

   “The train got stuck on the rail and… and Tech had to go and fix it.” He says, hoarsely, “He slipped and took Lena with him. They—they didn’t make it.”

   Camila gasps, trying to breathe as tears well in her eyes. She’s been so worried about something happening to Hazel she hadn’t even considered the others. And now… Lena and Tech.

   She turns away from him and makes blurry eye contact with Inej. She watches her sympathetically, hands gripping hers. 

   “Senator.” Hazeen mutters her name, quietly, but doesn’t touch her. Instead, he turns back to Rex, “And Hazel Ri’vane?”

   “Heartbroken.” Rex chokes out, “They crashed from the train. Injured but nothing major. They were on their way back to Ord Mantell when Echo messaged.”

   Camila gulps, pressing a hand to her forehead. Tears start to tumble down her cheeks. Inej and Hazeen share a glance and back away from her. The maid shoots Rex a look and the clone slowly walks towards Camila. His teeth grit together, trying not to cry. 

   She turns to him when he mutters her name and blinks up at him through her tears. Rex’s eyes flicker between hers, determined not to show his own tears but she notices anyway. She shakes her head, reluctantly releasing a sob as she stumbles into his chest. His arms immediately wrap around her, holding her tightly, and he presses a kiss to her hair. Mila quietly cries into his chest and he rests his head on top of hers. Neither notice when the door slides shut, leaving them alone.

 

   A few hours later, the couple had settled onto one of the sofas. Camila is curled into Rex’s side, her eyes shut and a quiet sniff leaving her every few minutes. Rex’s cheeks are damp from his own silent tears. He softly runs a hand over her hair, holding her tightly; he is leant into her, staring sadly at the carpeted floor. 

   “Is there any way we can see them?” Camila whispers.

   “I don’t know.” He replies.

   She pulls away, slightly, raising her chin to look up at him. He drags his eyes to hers and she raises her hand to wipe away the tear stains on his cheeks. He watches her, not saying a word. 

   “He was your brother.” She murmurs.

   “He was yours too.”

   Fresh tears well in her eyes and she rests her head back on his chest. His fingers entwine with her curls while her hand fiddles with a loose strand on his shirt.

   “I’m sorry.” 

   He looks down at her in surprise and she glances up at him.

   “What for?” He asks.

   “Everything.” She whispers. He shakes his head with a sigh and she watches the small smile appear on his lips.

   “It’s not your fault, Mila.” He says, resting his head onto the back of the sofa. He looks down and she holds his gaze, “I left you, even though I loved you.”

   “I loved you too.” She whispers. 

   Rex stares down at her. His eyes flicker to her lips and then hers to his. Her face leans up to meet him and their lips brush against each other. The door slides open and their faces quickly pull apart. 

   A patter of footsteps draws their attention, accompanied by Nanij’s hushed words. Alba stalls in her quick footsteps and Rex and Camila’s face drop. The young girl looks between her parents sad, and slightly blushed, faces.

   “What?” The young girl gulps. 

   “Alba.” Mila says her name, softly, sitting up, “Something’s happened.”

   Alba walks over to them and Rex helps her squeeze between them on the sofa. 

   “Auntie Lena and Uncle Tech were in an accident, Alla.” Camila says, biting back tears, “They didn’t make it.”

   Alba frowns up at her in confusion, “What do you mean, they didn’t make it? Where are they?”

   Camila opens her mouth to reply but comes up stale. She lifts her eyes to look at Rex, who drops his head a bit.

   “Adi’ka…” He starts, drawing their daughter’s attention to him, “Lena and Tech passed away.” 

   Alba’s face drops, “What?”

   “I’m sorry, baby.” Mila whispers, stroking her hair. 

   The girl immediately starts crying and the parents pull her into a hug. 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

I AM SOBBING!!!!

TECH AND LENA :((

ALBA'S FIVE YEARS OLD BRO.

Chapter 37: angel's touch

Summary:

afterwards...

 

 

ut aliquem per atria inferni non idem amor – to guide someone through the halls of hell is not the same as love

 

 

   Camila steps out of Alba’s room and the door shuts between them. It had taken a while for the young girl to get off to sleep, after she had found out and the mother had laid with her for a while. 

   When she re-enters the living room, Rex is tapping away on his holopad. The sun has since set and the moon casts elongated shadows across the living room floor. Camila spares a glance to the night sky. Amongst the dancing stars, Naravi VI and VII stand out like red and purple beacons; combined with the orange and blue night sky of Naravi IV, they add a beautiful aura to the moon’s shade. 

   Camila pulls her eyes away from the scene and grips the long sleeves of her dress. The loss of Lena and Tech has dug a gaping hole into her. She rolls her lips between her teeth to prevent the reappearance of her tears. Her heart strings tug at the thought of the others. She can’t even begin to know how they're feeling, their lives torn by their loss. Her mind wanders to all the times she has worried about Rex during the war. If she’d lost him, it may have destroyed her. Her worry for Hazel returns, now under different terms. 

   “Are you alright?” Rex’s question breaks her out of her thoughts. She glances over at him, her eyes slowly going back into focus. She nods at him and begins to head towards the sofa. 

   She can’t be weak in front of him. Not now. Alba’s upset and so is he and, while the loss has broken her, she has to be strong. Not just for them but for Hazel. And for herself.

   Rex’s eyes don't leave her as she settles into the seat opposite and stares holes into the floor. With a concerned look on his face, he drops his datapad beside him and stands to sit beside her. She feels him watching her but doesn’t say anything. Instead, she draws in a slow breath and straightens in her seat. Camila stills her face and turns to him. Rex looks back at her, still worried. Any evidence of her previous upset and tears have vanished from her face, replaced with an oddly calm and patient expression. Rex sighs and looks away from her. 

   “We need to find a way to get in contact with them.” Camila says. Rex gets to his feet and steps away from her, shaking his head.

   She frowns when he doesn’t seem to acknowledge her words.

   “Are you listening to me?” She asks, “We need to get in contact with them; we need to find out if they’re okay.”

   Rex lets out a noise of exasperation, making her raise an eyebrow.

   “Rex!”  

   He turns to her, a rather annoyed look on his face.

   “What?” She asks, in confusion.

   “Why do you do this?” It surprises her how soft the question comes across, considering the look of annoyance.

   “Do what?”

   “This.” He throws his hands towards her, “Pretending you’re okay. Trying to be strong, when…” He visibly deflates, pain in his eyes, “When I know you’re not. You’re allowed to be hurt, Mila. You don’t have to hide that from me.”

   Her heart strings tug at the pain in his voice. But she can’t help hiding from him. Yes, she’s trusting him again, but she’s changed. She can’t succumb to weakness. So, instead she rolls her eyes and gets to her feet.

   “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She says, walking away to the kitchen. 

   She hears his footsteps following her and her fists curl in her sleeves. She approaches the caff machine and turns it on. 

   “Yes, you do, Mila. Don’t deny it.” He sighs, “I know you. You forget that I know you.”

   She doesn’t turn to him, instead opening the cupboard and pulling out two mugs. He walks over to her and she stiffens. Camila tries to shrug it off by busying herself with the caff but as he closes the distance, she grows distracted.

   “Talk to me.” He says, softly. He’s close to her now. Maybe too close. Barely thirty centimetres away.  

   Her eyes flicker shut as he takes another step towards her. Her fingers curl around the edge of the kitchen side. His breath is warm against her ear and she can almost feel the heat from his body.

   “I’m fine.” She grits out and she can practically sense him rolling his eyes. He steps away and she releases the counter, her body relaxing. 

   “No you're not.” He grumbles and sits down at the small kitchen table. 

   They rarely use this room, more so in the evenings or early mornings. Instead, they often choose to eat in the family dining room, especially since Camila has a private chef. But Camila had asked them to install a kitchen back when she became Senator. She wanted the independence and always loved cooking. It was her favourite thing to do as a child; she cooked meals for her family, or for Hazel, almost every night growing up. When she looks back on it now, she realises she only did it because no one else ever did. That thought always saddened her slightly but still, she learnt from her time in the kitchen. Even now, years later, she loves when she can drag Alba into the kitchen to help her bake.

   As she organises the caff, she spares the picture on the wall, a glance. It’s one of the few she has from her childhood; it shows her and Hazel in a foodfight, head to toe in flour and baking soda. Burót had taken it when she had returned from school and seen the state of the kitchen. She’d scolded them afterwards but Camila knew she  secretly found it hilarious, especially when she’d chuckled while helping them clean up. Camila’s eyes flicker away from the picture at the thought of her sisters. That was one of the last times they all got along and actually spent time together. 

   Camila switches off the machine and picks up the mugs. She walks over to the table and places them down. Rex watches as she sits in the seat opposite, bringing her leg up to rest on the chair. She takes a sip of her caff and rests her head on her knee. He’d seen her eyes drifting to the picture on the wall a few times. He looks over to it now, taking in the two young girls covered in flour. In the reflection of the stove behind them, he sees an older girl with a holocamera. 

   His eyes return to the woman in front of him. He notices how much she looks like the older girl but his mind immediately corrects him. She is the middle child in that photo. The youngest is clearly Hazel, making the older girl, their older sister: Burót. He remembers her mentioning her older sister a couple times during their relationship, but her voice was always strained. Like it often was when she was talking about her family, he always noticed. Hazel was the only one she ever talked about with love in her voice and fondness in her eyes. 

   He glances at the holo again. An old ache appears in his chest and he sips at his caff, wishing for it to go away. The pain of losing his brothers is something he had buried long ago. It was never something he openly dwelled on and not really something he wanted to remember. All the bodies of his siblings that he and Ahsoka buried. Jesse’s helmet staring at him, the barrel at his gun unwavering as he unhesitantly pulled the trigger. Rex’s eyes squeeze shut and his head drops to his chest at the memory. He hears the sounds of the blasters in his ears and his face scrunches in pain. On the table, his hand curls into a fist, the other gripping at his seat. There’s a murmur… maybe a voice… but he doesn’t hear it.

   Pain, grief, sadness, every emotion he’d felt over that day returns to him in waves and he flinches.

   Then softness, calmness. He frowns. The hand on the table is forced open and gripped in someone else’s. The seat beside him scrapes slightly against the floor. His head lifts ever so slightly as someone leans into him. A head rests on his shoulder and an arm comes around his waist.

   “Shh, you’re okay. You’re safe.” A voice breaks through his thoughts. An angel’s voice perhaps. It certainly sounded angelic. 

   His emotions settle at the angel’s touch and the maw of thoughts swelling his brain begin to ease. The angel presses a kiss to his shoulder and hugs him tighter.

   “I’ve got you, mon coeur. I’m here now. I’m sorry.”

   The angel is apologising? Why? He turns to her, his eyes blurry and unable to focus. Why is she sorry? It’s not her fault. It’s his fault. He shouldn’t have left his brothers. He shouldn’t have left her.

   “I’ve got you. It’s okay.” 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

little rex pov. i can't with them, they're so cute and angsty. mila bottles everything up and rex is getting annoyed now.. and a little look at mila's childhood. she didn't have the best...
and of course i had to mention order 66 at somepoint.

Chapter 38: eager for revenge

Summary:

new arrival and more bad news...

 

 

i videre aliquem plus quam me. i videre aliquem qui superstes fuerit – i see someone stronger than me. i see someone who survives

 

 

   She groans at the ache in her head and turns to bury herself further into her blankets.

   “Good morning, my lady.” Inej greets as she walks in, “It is quite late, Senator, it’s almost 1100.”

   Camila groans again, shaking her head. Her handmaiden’s usually comforting voice, now making her want to scream.

   “I’m afraid I've woken with a particularly bad headache.” Using her voice, she notices how it feels like sandpaper, “And a sore throat too.”

   “Oh no, my lady. Shall I fetch some medicine?” Inej asks, sitting beside her.

   Camila turns to look at her through sleepy eyes, “I think that would be wise.”

   Inej nods and walks out the room. This leaves Camila alone again and she shifts in the sheets, to stare up at the ceiling. She can’t remember much of the previous night. She does remember Rex having a bit of a panic attack, however. Her brow creases in concern. She hopes he’s okay. 

 

   Sometime later, the medication seems to have kicked in and Camila sits at her vanity, drying her freshly washed hair. Alba sits on the bed behind her, laying on her front and colouring in a picture on the holotablet in front of her.

   “Look, Mama. It’s a Loth cat.” She lifts the tablet and Camila looks at it through her mirror.

   “Oh yeah! That’s really pretty, Alla.” Camila compliments, making her daughter grin and thank her.

   Camila switches off the hair dryer and tucks it away in one of the drawers. She then uses a wide toothed comb to gently brush through her curls.

   “Mama…” Alba’s questioning tone draws her attention and she watches the young girl sit up on the bed, “Is Auntie Hazel ok? And Hunter? Do we get to see them?”

   The mother’s face drops slightly and she quietly places down the comb. Camila turns in her seat.

   “I don’t know, baby. You know how much Auntie Lena and Uncle Tech meant to them. To all of them.” She says and Alba’s expression grows increasingly sadder. She climbs off the bed and walks over to her.

   “I miss them, Mama.” She says, tears in her eyes.

   “Oh, Alla.” Camila opens her arms and carefully pulls Alba onto her lap.

   The young girl tucks her head into her mother’s shoulder and Camila runs a hand through her blonde waves.

   “I miss them too.” Camila kisses the top of Alba’s head, rocking her gently.

 

   Rex is talking to Captain Narvor when Alba and Camila walk into the living room. The Senator’s hair has been pulled into a messy bun and she wears a flowy, light pink summer dress that brushes along the floor as she walks; small flowers and gems are scattered along the waist line and up the loose sleeves. Beside her, Alba wears a white jumpsuit and Camila has pulled her blonde hair into matching braids. The two Captains both look over to them when they enter and a smile appears on Rex’s face. 

   His smile stiffens once he clocks the concerned look on Camila’s face as she carefully stares back at him.

   “Senator. Princess.” Narvor winks at Alba, who giggles, as he turns to Camila, drawing her attention, “We are still unable to get in contact with Miss Ri’vane and Clone Force 99.”

   Camila squeezes Alba’s hand as the girl looks up at her. She gives Alba a reassuring smile, though she is more trying to reassure herself. 

   “Is there anything else we can try?” The Senator asks, looking between the men in front of her.

   “I don’t think so, my lady.” He shakes his head, sympathetically, “I’m sorry.” He looks between the parents, sending a small smile to Alba.

   “It’s fine, thank you, Captain.” Camila says as Rex nods at him.

   He nods at them then walks away. Alba lets go of her mother’s hand and sulks over to the couch. 

   “What are we going to do?” Camila asks, watching Alba.

   “I don’t know.” Rex mutters, shaking his head.

   “Why didn’t you tell me you couldn’t find Auntie Hazel?” Alba’s quiet voice asks. 

   The two share a look before making their way over to their daughter.

   “We didn’t want to worry you, adi’ka.” Rex says, as they sit down each side of her.

   “Yeah, it wasn’t your concern.” Camila adds, bringing the braid closest to her to rest on Alba’s shoulder.

   Alba looks between them.

   “What if something happened? Is Auntie Hazel in trouble? Is she going to die too? I don’t want her to die too!” She cries, and the two adults wrap their arms around her.

   “I’m sure she’s fine, Alla.” Rex reassures, “They’re all going to be fine.”

   Camila kisses the top of Alba’s head and then places her chin on top. She brings her eyes up to look at Rex. The clone gives her a sad smile and takes her hand. He squeezes it gently and rubs his thumb against the top of her hand, comfortingly. 

   The three of them stay like that for a while, until the door slides open and someone runs in. They all lift their heads and turn to the commotion. Captain Narvor stands there, Tavin and Percéval behind him, a rather frantic look on their faces.

   “Captain. What is it?” Mila asks.

   “An unknown ship has entered the atmosphere. It’s heading towards your landing pad.” Narvor informs them. 

   Camila and Rex share a look, before quickly getting to their feet. 

   “Tavin stay with Alba and summon Nanij.” Camila orders, earning a groan from her daughter. She shoots Alba a stern look.

   “Prep a group of guards and have them on the landing pad.” Camila says next as they all hurriedly walk out of the room. Narvor nods and gestures at multiple guards in the hallway as they walk past.

   “Do you have any idea who it could be?” Narvor questions.

   “I have an idea.” Rex says and the two look at him, “And I hope I’m right.”

   Narvor gives Camila a confused look. She looks away and clenches her fist, not saying anything. They step onto the landing pad and the guards they’d collected all run ahead. They form a line in front of the palace entrance as the ship slows almost abruptly. They lift their arms to protect their eyes from the sudden speed change of the ship as it kicks up dust and leaves. 

   Camila and Rex share a look at the sight of the ship. She steps forward, the two Captains, flanking her. The ship’s engine turns off and the ramp lowers but no one steps out. Rex shoots her cautious look but she doesn’t turn to him. Instead, she walks towards the ship. A droid rolls down the ramp. It’s a BB-unit in desperate need of a paint job and probably an oil bath. It releases a series of happy beeps as it rolls towards her. A smile etches its way onto the Senator’s face and she crouches to greet it. She rubs a hand against his domed head as he rants in rapid beeps. Camila releases a laugh, standing to her feet.

   “It’s good to see you too, BeeBee.” She says. He lets out another squeal of happiness before turning to Rex and doing a similar thing. The clone chuckles and rolls his eyes. 

   Camila then turns to the ship again. A figure steps out, cloaked in blue and purple; her hair in a long plait down her back. Her cloak is cinched at the waist by a brown utility belt, a blaster against her thigh. The sun glints against a couple of hidden knives and the gold hoops of jewellery on her person. She wears a solemn look on her face as she turns to them, but it quickly twists into a small smile. 

   Camila’s smile softens and she walks towards her with open arms. Kaya is quick to run into them, hugging the older woman tightly. 

   “Oh, I've missed you, Red.” Camila whispers into the scarf that has fallen off the brown girl’s head.

   “I’ve missed you too, Mimi.”

   They pull apart and Camila holds Kaya’s head in her hands, smiling down at the younger girl. Her and Hazel had first become friends when they were seventeen and starting to make their way in the galaxy. The pirate had become like another younger sister to Camila and she’s not seen her in a long, long time.

   “It’s been too long, Kayaan.” Camila scolds, jokingly, gripping Kaya’s shoulders.

   “I know.” Kaya rolls her eyes, gripping Mila’s wrists. 

   They pull apart when Rex appears next to Camila. Kaya looks between them, noticing how they’re almost brushing shoulders. She raises an eyebrow at the Senator, who blushes slightly. Rex frowns, watching in confusion. 

   Kaya’s humorous smile drops and she sighs.

   “What is it?” Camila asks. 

   “Have you been talking to Hazel?” She asks in a strained voice.

   The former couple share a look and shake their heads.

   “We’ve been unable to reach them. Not since Echo told me about Tech and Lena…” Rex trails off, glancing at the woman beside him. Camila’s eyes drop to the permacrete floor and she fiddles with her sleeve.

   Kaya glances between them, a flicker of pain in her eyes.

   “Wait, you don’t know about…?”

   They both stare at her. 

   “Know about… what?” Camila asks, dread filling her.

   Kaya rolls her bottom lip between her teeth, glancing down at BB-4. The droid gives her a sad but encouraging beep.

   “They got treated on Ord Mantell but… erm… Cid sold them out.” Kaya admits.

   “What?” Rex’s voice is stiff, his expression hard and unyielding. Beside him, Camila draws in a sharp breath, her eyes widening. 

   “Yeah, they… erm… they came after Omega. Some Doctor guy. A right asshole. They tried to help her escape but…” Kaya shakes her head and looks down.

   “No…” Camila turns to Rex. The clone is staring straight ahead. He then moves his head to glance at her, clear pain in his eyes. She stares back at him and reaches out to grip his hand. He squeezes it tightly, his brow creasing.

   “What about the others?” Mila asks, her voice strained. She looks back at Kaya, the hunter moving her sympathetic look from Rex.

   “Fine, as far as I know. Heartbroken and eager for revenge.” Kaya states.

   “How do you know?” Rex grits out, looking away from Camila.

   “Comm mail. I was passing through the system and it popped up. Hazel must have left something, knowing I operate nearby. It was short-range, so…” She shrugs and Camila pinches the bridge of her nose. 

   The three stand together, a cloud of sadness surrounding them. Camila and Rex hold each other's hand tightly, afraid to fall apart if they were to let go.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

KAYA MY LOVE. She's such a badass.
i love the family moments between rex, mila and alba. despite everything they're still together <3333
but yes, kaya is here and she brings the news about omega. my fancast for her is amita suman; mila calls her 'red' because her last name is 'rouge' which means red is french/naravian.
i'd just like to say ALBA IS FIVE. yes, i am the writer, but WHY IS SHE GOING THROUGH THIS....

Chapter 39: project necromancer

Summary:

mila reaches out to an old contact...

 

 

Certus sum te in hac terra esse me excruciandum – i’m convinced you were put on this earth just to torture me

 

 

   The three lounge in the living room; Kaya taps away on her datapad and the two former lovers sitting opposite each other, stuck away in their own thoughts.

   “We have to help them get her back.” Camila says, her elbows resting against her knees, “We can’t leave her there. Who knows what they’ll do to her.” 

   She bites at her nails, her gaze not leaving the floor. 

   “What can we do?” Rex asks, “No one even knows where she is.”

   “I’ve looked everywhere.” Kaya speaks up, holding up her datapad, “There’s not much on him.”

   “What does it say?” Camila asks, sitting up.

   “His name is Doctor Hemlock.” Kaya reveals, reading from the datafile, “He was previously in the Republic’s Science Corps but was kicked out for his ‘unorthodox experiments’.”

   The former couple share a concerned look.

   “I managed to hack into some imperial files but… I'm not Tech.” She hesitantly taps at something on her datapad, “Apparently he’s the spearhead on ‘Project Necromancer’. Though it doesn’t say what the project actually is.”

   Rex frowns and strokes his chin, “Never heard of it.” 

   Camila holds her hand out to Kaya and the Hunter hands over the datapad. 

   “Well, is there any way you can find out?” Kaya asks, looking between them.

   “I don’t really have any contacts that deep into the Empire.” Rex admits.

   Camila looks up from the datapad and grimaces slightly.

   “I know someone. But I haven’t heard from her in weeks.” She says.

   “Can you try?” Kaya asks. 

   “I can. But… no guarantees.” 

   The three get to their feet. As they walk over to her office, Camila turns to Rex.

   “Someone should tell Alba about Omega.” She says. 

   Rex looks down at her and sighs.

   “Yeah. I know.” He says, glancing away, “Do you want me to do it while you do this?” 

   Camila looks up at him, hopefully, knowing that she can’t take anymore of Alba’s sad face today. She doesn’t want to break down crying. Not again. She nods and he gives her a sad smile before walking away.

   Kaya and Camila enter the room and the Senator walks over to her desk. 

   “Where’s Rex gone?” Kaya asks.

   “To tell Alba about Omega.” Camila says.

   “Alba?” Kaya’s eyes widen, “Shit, I haven’t seen her since she was a baby.”

   Camila looks up in realisation, “Oh no. You haven’t, have you?”

   The two share a sad laugh as Kaya joins Camila at her side. The Senator has since opened out an additional desk hidden under her actual one. Half of it is a full communications layout with wires, dials and switches all over. The other half is just a lock box with a couple files on top.

   “Damn, Mimi. You’ve got the full rebel set up here.” Kaya says, eyes wide.

   Camila grins at her.

   “Were you expecting any less?” She asks, rhetorically, and Kaya smirks.

   Camila threads through some of the cables, connecting them to various ports, and flicking various switches as she brings a headset to one ear. She listens to static as she fiddles with a dial, her eyes watching the screen beside it at the many frequencies. 

   “How long is this going to take?” Kaya asks after a couple minutes.

   “It's long range.” Camila says, “And she hasn’t been on the channel in three weeks.”

   Kaya nods and falls silent, her eyes also fixed on the display. The static in Camila’s ear settles for a second before returning and she moves the dial back until it settles again. Her hand flies over the console, strengthening the lines and clicking a few buttons on the display, eventually finding the correct line.

   “Holo Two, come in, do you copy?” Camila says into the mouthpiece connected to the headset, “Holo Two, this is Alliance Three, come in. Holo Two, do you copy?”

   Camila fiddles with another dial, trying to strengthen the connection.

   “She there?” Kaya questions and Camila shoots her a deadpan look. The Hunter holds her hands up in defence, earning a chuckle from BB-4.

   “Bee, plug in. Try and strengthen it.” Camila says, gesturing at a port on the side. He does as she says, the Senator continuing to speak into the comm.

   “Holo Two, this is Alliance Three. Do you copy Holo Two?”

   “ All–hree. Co–n.” 

   Camila gasps slightly and adjusts the dial.

   “ Alli–Th–e. Are you–ere?” 

   “Holo Two. Is that you?” Camila says, still fiddling with the console. She shoots BB-4 a glance and he beeps in response.

   “ This is Holo Two, I copy. Alliance Three?” The voice finally connects and Camila holds her hand up to the droid.

   “I read you, Holo Two. Is this secure?” Camila asks, checking the display.

   “ It’s secure, Alliance Three. How are you?” Comes the reply.

   Camila chuckles, “Happy to hear your voice, Holo Two.”

   A chuckle comes over the static and Camila watches Kaya grab the spare headset, putting it on.

   “ This a check up? It’s been a while.” Holo Two asks.

   “Three weeks, Two. Thought you bailed us.” Camila says. Kaya shoots her a grin.

   “ Nah. Not really much going on.” 

   Camila hums, “Could you look into something for me?”

   There’s no response for a second, then Holo Two’s voice crackles over the static.

   “ What do you need, Alliance?” 

   “Project Necromancer. See what you can find out.” Camila says, “And anything about a Doctor Hemlock.”

   “ Sure thing. I remember Hemlock briefly from the start of the war. Anything else?” 

   Camila doesn’t reply for a second, her eyes flickering over to a picture on the side.

   “Havoc-3 and Havoc-7 are dead. Hemlock took Havoc-9 too.” Camila admits.

   Kaya shoots her a slightly confused look.

   “ Copy, Alliance.” Comes the saddened reply, “ I’ll look out.”

   “Copy, Holo Two. Alliance Out.”

   The line disconnects into static and the two lower the headsets.

   “What is havoc?” Kaya asks, though she doesn’t sound keen for an answer.

   “A code in the Batch. When their comms are being tapped they use codenames. Hazel came up with the idea during the war.” Camila tells her, “She told me in case she ever needed to contact me. Havoc-3 and 7 are… Tech and Lena.”

   “And Havoc-9 is Omega.” Kaya concludes, nodding in understanding.

   “Yes.” Camila nods as well.

   “Who was Holo Two?” Kaya asks next, “Also, creative code name.”

   Camila rolls her eyes, “Holo Two is Taelia Borne. She was also in the Science Corps during the war, so it’s no surprise that she may know him.”

   “Why is she still there?” Kaya frowns.

   Camila shrugs, “We needed spies, back when we began to form some sort of alliance amongst us Senators before the war ended. Many of us didn’t agree with Palpatine’s methods so we put together a group of Senators who agreed with that. Many of us are still in that Council.”

   Kaya nods.

   “Taelia was a scientist who was close with Palpatine’s second eldest, Elina. They went to University together but Elina transferred to the Med Corps part way through her first year. Taelia was also close with Senator Chuchi and after the situation with the Zillo Beast, she heard rumours about cloning and reached out. She was only a contact through Riyo until the end of the war when she became more involved and began to contact me directly.”

   “Isn’t Elina serving with Palpatine?” Kaya asks. 

   Camila nods her mind flashing to Rhoswen. 

   “What about his eldest? What was her name?” She snaps her fingers as she remembers, “Rosalyn?”

   “Rhoswen.” Camila corrects, smiling faintly.

   “Last I heard, she escaped Coruscant. Betrayed her father. Disappeared into the Outer Rim.” Camila replies, purposely avoiding key details. It’s Rose’s business, after all. 

   “Fair enough. I would if I had him as a father.” Kaya lets out a breathy laugh, “Boy, am I glad my parents are dead.”

   Camila glares at Kaya, the brown-skinned girl grinning in return. Rex walks in then, a sad look on his face.

   “How did she take it?” Camila asks.

   “Not well. Nanij is with her at the moment.” He admits, stopping on the opposite side of the desk. 

   Camila’s face drops and she runs a finger around the side of the desk. 

   “What is this?” Rex asks.

   “Her secret comm desk.” Kaya replies, grinning.

   Camila rolls her eyes as Rex shoots her a look.

   “Really?” He smirks slightly.

   “Oh, leave it.” She responds with a playful glare and he grins, “I got through to my contact. She’ll look into it.”

   “Who was your contact?” Rex asks.

   “None of your business.” Camila replies, smiling slightly and shaking her head. His eyes don’t leave her as she deactivates the desk and slides it back under.

   Kaya rapidly looks between them, eyes wide and an amused smirk gracing her lips. Camila glances at her then does a double take. The Hunter wriggles her eyebrows then walks out the room. She winks over a shoulder at the Senator then walks away, her remarks to BB-4 echoing down the hall.

   “What was that about?” Rex asks, watching Kaya leave in confusion.

   “I have no idea.” Camila admits, looking just as confused and a bit embarassed.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

mila and kleya would be such good friends.
rex breaks the news to omega. and kaya and mila reach out to TAELIA BORNE (yes another oc). i have plans for her but she is a background character. she is also a badass and a genius.
also, rose has sisters. they aren't shown in this book but are mentioned a couple times.
even in dire times rex and mila still flirt...

Chapter 40: working

Summary:

mila gets to work...

 

 

sic eos sequimur in Orcum descendentes, descendentes, donec una die convertimur et iter facimus – so we follow them into the Underworld, descending, descending, until one day we turn and make our way back

 

 

   Camila lays on Alba’s bed, the young girl curled into her side. She brushes her fingers through the ends of her daughter’s hair, in comfort. Alba’s crying has since descended into sniffs, small wet patches on the front of Camila’s dress – not that she minded.

   Neither says a word, just letting Alba process everything that she has found out over the last few days; the five year old isn’t used to loss and it’s at this time that Camila thanks the Gods that she had not known Rex during the war in case something had happened to him. Camila grimaces at the thought and how much it seemed to have been in her mind lately. If something had happened to Rex in the war, yes, she would have been happy that Alba didn’t know her father, but Camila would have been heartbroken. Even if they were separated, the idea of losing him destroyed her. She loved him, even after he left, because she saw a part of him in Alba every single day. She saw his face in every single one of his brothers, his bravery, his loyalty, his heart. And she still kept an ear out for him. She still wanted to know if he was okay. And she’d heard about situations like Umbara and her heart ached for him. When he’d recounted the tale several months ago, she noticed how much it pained him – and he barely told her much; losing that many clones because of a traitorous Jedi, it devastated her.

   Camila forcibly shoves her string of thoughts aside. Her eyes trace the patterned ceiling, focusing her back on the present. Losing herself over her guilt for not being there for Rex is not something that Alba needs right now. 

   The mother glances down at her daughter. Alba’s eyes are shut; subtle bags have settled underneath, showing her exhaustion. Her body is almost relaxed and her breaths come out in slow, steady beats. She’s cried herself to sleep, Camila realises. 

   The brunette twists her body to lay Alba on her side and slowly inches away, sliding off the bed. Her feet quietly shuffle backwards until she bumps into the door. Camila stares at Alba for a long second before stepping out. The door slides shut between them but Camila doesn’t move. 

   She feels awful that Alba has to deal with this loss. She’s five. There’s no war anymore. And yet, the amount of people dying everyday almost feels like nothing has changed. Camila sighs and starts to walk away, lifting her hands to remove the pins holding up her bun. She tucks them away into her pocket and runs her hands through her curls, allowing them to lay over her shoulders. 

   Camila glances into the living room as she walks past and spots Kaya sitting on one of the couches. Her back is to the Senator but Camila can just about make out what’s on her holo screen. Hundreds of reports about missing children, imperial experiments and imperial science projects are scattered across it and Kaya appears to be making her way through each one. Camila’s heart drops at the sight. The Empire is relentless. 

   She looks away and enters her office. She pauses in front of her desk, letting the peaceful silence fill the room and settle the thoughts that have made her head hurt. The headache from this morning has since returned and she feels worse. But she can’t stop. There’s so much to do. 

   Forcing her legs forward, Camila rounds the desk and sits down. She pulls out her hidden desk and opens up the locked file compartment. 

   Her fingers flick through the files, pulling one and out of every few she goes through and placing them on her desk. When she’s finished, she tucks the unwanted ones back into the locked compartment and closes the desk. Camila moves her chair forward and opens the first file. Information regarding the cloning of the Zillo Beast appears and she sighs heavily. After Bail sent her that recording a while back, she’d quickly jumped on the information and asked Taelia about it. It was actually the last time the two had spoken before today. Taelia had responded with the file but it was vague. Apparently, the Emperor had ordered the cloning process and its capture back when it attacked Coruscant during the war. That plan has clearly continued even after the war ended.

   Camila passes through the pages, rolling her eyes. She then pushes it to the side, moving onto the next one with a sigh. 

   Hours later, Camila’s on the final file. Her eyes are sore and her head is pounding, so much so that she can barely read the words layed out in front of her. The Senator groans and leans her head on her propped up fist. She widens her eyes and lifts the paper up with her other hand, bringing it closer to her face.

   “What are you doing?” 

   Camila looks up, blinking to focus her eyes on the person at the door. Rex stands there with his arms crossed, an amused look on his face. It quickly turns sympathetic, however, when he notices her appearance. It’s only then she considers what she may actually look like. She glances across to her reflection in the chronometer and groans. Her hair is a bit messy and her mascara slightly smudged, her concealer has worn away revealing the bags under her eyes and she looks like she’s in agony. Which she is, funnily enough.

   “Working.” She grumbles and he scoffs out a laugh. He unfolds his arms and walks over to her. 

   “Working on what?” He asks. She gestures at the files around her and he moves to stand beside her. He picks up the closest one and opens it up. She watches his face scrunch into a frown before turning back to the file in front of her. 

   She finishes reading the file, relief filling her. She shuts it and shoves it away, running a hand through her hair. 

   “So you’ve been doing this for the past three hours?” Rex asks. 

   Camila frowns and her eyes fly back to the chronometer on the wall. She groans when she sees the time and puts her head in her hands. This earns a chuckle from Rex, who places the file he was holding on top of the others. 

   “You need to go to bed, Mila.” He tells her.

   “I’ll rest when we find Omega.” She replies, organising the files together. 

   “You’re no good to her if you can barely keep your eyes open.” He points out. He steps away as she slides backwards. The desk comes out again and she returns the files. 

   Camila doesn’t say anything but can feel his eyes burning holes into the side of her face. She locks the files away and the desk returns to its hiding place. 

   “Mila. I’m being serious, you need to sleep.” He says, placing a hand on her shoulder. She drags her tired eyes up to meet his concerned ones and begrudgingly nods. 

   He smiles, softly, as she gets to her feet. Camila rubs a hand against her forehead, her headache worse than ever. Rex tentatively puts an arm out and she steps into his side. His arm wraps around her and she buries her head into his chest. 

   When she pulls away enough to look up at him, his worry is evident. 

   “I’m fine, it’s just a headache.” She says. 

   He watches as she steps away and stumbles into the desk. Rex is by her side in an instant, an arm around her shoulders. His hand brushes her curls off her face.

   “Mila, you’re burning up.” He states with a frown. 

   “Oh.” Her face remains impassive and she smiles softly, then chuckles, lightly, “That makes sense.”

   “Come on.” He laughs, gently guiding her out of the office. He takes her to her bedroom and she opens the door. 

   He pauses when he enters, looking around. Camila blushes, realising that this is the first time he’s ever been in her room. He moves her towards the bed and she tries to get rid of the thoughts creeping into her mind. They were not at all time appropriate. 

   She steps away from him and picks up the fresh glass of water that Inej must have put out. Camila takes a sip and turns back to him. His eyes drift around the room. He’d only ever been in her room in Coruscant and she definitely does not decorate her Coruscanti apartment. Her life holds many secrets. Secrets the Republic, and now the Empire, do not need to know about. 

   “I’ve never been in here before.” He remarks.

   The lights had flickered on when they’d entered, a warm, yellow glow enveloping the room. Her wardrobe takes up one wall and her darkened window, the one opposite. The head board backs onto the wall opposite her door; her bed comes out into the middle of the room. On the wall adjacent to the door, her cabinet rests, pictures and papers scattered across. Not far beside it, is her vanity — neat and tidied by Inej. Camila looks to the wall; lamps are placed either side of her bed, holo pictures in between. It isn’t much, but to her… it’s home. 

   Camila shrugs, “You’ve never had a reason to come in here.” She points out, placing the water back on the bedside table. 

   He looks back at her as she tucks a curl behind her ear. 

   “Do you want me to get Inej?” He asks, softly. 

   She shrugs again, organising the drink, hairbrush and books on her bedside.

   “What is it, Mila?” 

   “Nothing.” She turns to him with a smile, pausing when the blood rushes to her head at the action. 

   He just watches her in return as she tilts her head with a smile. He realises that if he wasn’t already in love with her, that moment may very well have been it. 

   “I should go,” He says, “Let you rest.”

   She nods but he doesn’t move. 

   “Thank you.” She says, softly. He smiles at her. Their eyes remain locked onto each other, neither having the courage to look away. His eventually leave hers but only to glance down at her lips. 

   “Rex…” She mutters his name and his eyes squeeze shut. 

   “I know.” He steps back and meets her eyes again. 

   “Rex, I–” She starts.

   “–need to rest.” He interrupts, backing away, “I’ll get Inej.”

   She frowns, stepping forward and opening her mouth. He grins at her, but Camila can tell it's slightly forced. Her face drops and so does his.

   “Goodnight.” He whispers.

   “Night, Rex.” 

   He smiles softly at her then slips out the door. Almost immediately, she lets out a groan and flops onto the bed. Weird feelings fill her stomach as that entirety of the last few minutes replays in her head. 

   She can’t be dealing with any strange feelings right now, especially not for Rex. Her sister and her family are suffering from a great loss, Omega’s been kidnapped and the galaxy is being dictated by a hooded Emperor who’s manipulated his way onto his throne. And she’s developing feelings for the man she used to love. 

   No. 

   No, she isn’t developing feelings. That’s a load of bullshit. She’s just ill and confused and she misses him. 

   But the memory of their kiss in the pool haunts her. Every moment they have spent together, the wandering eyes, the small smiles, the little comments.

   She sits up, her eyes widening in realisation. Maybe… maybe she is developing feelings. 

   “Oh, for fucks sake.” She curses, falling face first onto her bed. 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

END OF SEASON TWO. and a glimpse into mila overworking...
ANY WAY mila is falling for rex???? but she's also worrying about alla everyone else.

 

this is the last post for today :( we're now on season three and only twenty two chapters left :))

Chapter 41: evidence

Summary:

Naravi IV's advisors discuss going neutral...

 

 

redis tandem post mille annos – you’re back at last, after a thousand years

 

 

   It’s been months since Kaya told them about Omega. Nearly six to be exact. Six months where the only connection between Camila and her sister was through the dark-skinned pirate and Echo. Not that they could talk much. The Batch have travelled all over the galaxy looking for Omega, and Kaya has searched almost every inch of the underworld for even a whisper about the female clone. 

   Camila had lost contact with Taelia a few months back, the comm now silent every time she attempts to talk. Camila’s bill for the clones had been presented to the Imperial Senate multiple times and each time, she had failed. Each time the votes against her had increased as the Emperor won more and more people to his side. Each time she returned home and looked into Alba’s eyes, the eyes of every clone still alive in the galaxy, and she filled with pain and regret. Rex’s attempts to reassure did nothing to ease her stress. And his visits were short and far apart. He worked hard to locate his sister and save his brothers, so much so that he barely saw them. Echo had rejoined him about four months back and Camila’s grateful that he’s there to keep him grounded. Still, Camila has delved herself into her work and politics, unable to spare the time to even attempt to visit her sister or convince Rex and Echo to take a short break.

   And Alba. The poor girl felt the brunt of the change. Her father away a lot, her mother always working, her aunt and uncles never being around and unable to talk to them. She still thrived amongst her friends and cousins but Camila can tell that she made the most of the moments she could have with either of her parents. Camila feels awful that she can’t constantly spend time with the almost six year old but, upsettingly enough, the young girl understands her parents’ roles in the galaxy, and seems to have accepted this fate long ago. 

   Camila rubs her thumb against the inside of her wrist as she addresses the Royal Council.

   “Ever since the Duchess of Mandalore died and the war ended, the Council of Neutral systems has been disbanded.” She is saying, “If we wish to become neutral it will involve leaving the Imperial Senate and essentially abandoning what is left of the Republic. Are we ready to do that?”

   “As I've stated before.” Clemac sighs as Camila retakes her seat, “If we are to leave the Imperial Senate, it may lead to an invasion as it may give them a reason to suspect rebel activity.”

   “But wouldn’t they have to have evidence of that?” Raya, the Queen’s financial advisor, asks, “They can’t invade, Clemac, if they have no actual proof.”

   The others nod as she looks around at them.

   “Raya makes a good point, your majesty.” Rensford says.

   Queen Elvira nods.

   “I understand your points, Advisors, but I hate to put our people at risk. We don’t know what will happen under Imperial control. We already know enough to understand the darkness that is taking our galaxy but the risk of invasion is threatening.” She says, a brow creasing in thought. After a moment of silence, she looks up to meet Camila’s eyes, “Senator Ri’vane. Your honest thoughts?”

   Camila stares back, not knowing how to answer. Her previous statement was something of a political view and she hated the question she had ended it with. The others all turn to her expectantly and her eyes drop to the floor, briefly, as she considers how to reply.

   “I think,” She begins, slowly looking up, “That this galaxy will be shrouded in darkness for a long time. If we are to leave the Empire, we may find ourselves floating through that darkness, anxious and waiting for an attack. We cannot spend our lives expecting a fight. We are a large system, my friends, but we are already independent. The Imperial Senate is suspicious of us already. Do we want to give them more incentive? We had problems with Separatists during the war and a few times we have come close to invasion.” Camila sighs, her fingers twisting her mother’s engagement ring, “Our defences are tight enough and we have bunkers in the cities. As much as I want our people to be safe and free, remaining within the Imperial Senate may be the only suitable protection we can give ourselves. Not just against the Empire, but also against crime syndicates too. We know some already operate on Naravi VI and VII; they do not need a reason to operate here too.”

   There’s silence after her little speech, long enough for Camila to grow anxious. She wants them to be neutral, for her people to be free of Imperial terror but she does not want to risk an invasion. Her position in the small cells of Rebellion is risky enough. She can’t put her planet in even more danger if they leave the Senate too. She needs her inside position. She needs her voice, looking after those that can’t look after themselves. The war may have ended, but she’s still fighting. And she will till her dying breath. 

   “So, will we remain with the Imperial Senate?” Queen Elvira asks the group, though it is clear that she agrees with the Senator.

   A chorus of ‘ay’s and ‘yes’s and other words and notions of agreement fill the chamber and soon enough the Queen raises her hand in dismissal. Elvira nods in respect at Camila as she stands, the Senator replying with a sad smile before turning away. Raya accompanies her as she leaves, the two discussing Raya’s next holiday plans as they make their way through the Palace. Camila’s hands twitch by her side as she walks but her face shows little anxiety, her friendly smile enough to keep the Advisor talking. 

   Eventually, they reach a fork in the corridors and part ways, leaving a trailing Lieutenant Hazeen as Camila’s only company. She glances back at him and he quickly falls into step beside her. 

   “Any updates?”

   “We have narrowed the search for Hemlock down to twelve possible locations. Shall we send scout droids to search for possible bases?” Hazeen informs her.

   “Wait a while.” She replies, earning a look of surprise, “Oh, don’t look like that. I just had a three hour long meeting about neutrality, Lieutenant. If the Empire somehow gets a whiff of that and we send scout droids out to possible Imperial base locations, it may not look very good for us.”

   He nods in agreement, and falls silent. Camila smirks and turns her head to look at him.

   “So what is going on between you and Inej?” She asks.

   Hazeen flushes and turns away from her.

   “N-Nothing.” He stutters out, making her laugh. 

   “I’m not so sure I agree with you, Lieutenant.” She says.

   He glares at her and she grins. 

   “Nothing is going on.” He tells her firmly, “We’re friends.”

   “Your constant bickering says otherwise.” She sings, tucking her hands into her sleeves. 

   He rolls his eyes and looks down at her, “And your flirting with your clone Captain speaks volumes, but I don’t say anything.”

   Her jaw drops and she stares at him, offended.

   “How dare you?” She frowns.

   He smirks and shrugs. She shakes her head, looking away from him. 

   “All fairs in love and war.” He remarks and she rolls her eyes. 

   “Okay, touché, touché.”

 

   Later that night, Camila has pulled a chair out onto the balcony; Alba is curled up in her lap as the mother reads to her. After a while, the young girl’s eyes flicker shut and Camila closes the book. Her arms wrap around Alba, gently swaying, as she stares out across her city. The people have no idea what’s going on. While the Naravi system broadcasts the mandated imperial holonews, their own reporter, Orpheus Fendon, sometimes hints to the people that the Palace doesn’t agree with everything they said. Queen Elvira had told Orpheus when the Empire came to power that he did not have to regularly broadcast Imperial news. They weren’t controlled by the Empire. However, Camila had reminded her that they were still a part of the Senate so encouraged Orpheus to broadcast Imperial news but draw the line at propaganda. 

   ‘Naravi IV is neutral in every unspoken way.’ Camila had told him, ‘We don’t have recruitment centers and Imperial officers, but I stand in their Senate.’

   ‘Why?’ Orpheus had asked.

   ‘Because the people need a voice.’ She had replied, ‘Not just Naravi people, but people everywhere. Lothal, Aldhani, Ghormann, even Tatooine. They can hardly stand up for themselves. That’s why I'm here. It’s my job.’

   Orpheus had understood immediately, and little to no Imperial propaganda had made its way onto their screens. But she’s still anxious. They have no idea if the Empire has infiltrated the system and every day that fear increases at the idea of all of her secrets being discovered should an Imperial spy be planted within the Palace. If they found out the truth about Rex, about Hazel, about Alba. If they found out what she’s been doing, her contacts, her Rebellion. Her people would suffer, her family would suffer. 

   Camila releases a shaky breath, holding Alba closer to her chest. She isn’t going to let that happen. She won’t.

   “Mama? Are you okay?” Alba’s soft voice breaks through her thoughts.

   Camila looks down through slightly teary eyes.

   “Alla, baby, I thought you were asleep.” She says, lifting a hand to wipe the young girl’s messy hair from her face.

   Alba shakes her head and sits up in her mother’s lap.

   “Mama, what’s wrong? You look upset.”

   “I’m fine, baby.” She says, smiling warmly, “It’s just adult stuff. C’mere.”

   She pulls her daughter in for a hug, the young girl resting the side of her head against her collarbone.

   “Is Daddy okay?” Alba asks, after a while, “I haven’t seen him in ages.”

   Camila’s eyes flicker and she bites her lips. She holds Alba’s head to her chest and presses a kiss on top.

   “I’m sure he’s fine, Alla. Just busy, that's all.” Camila replies, though she doesn’t sound so convincing. 

   Alba doesn’t seem to notice, the young girl slightly smiling into her mother’s chest.

   “Like you?” She asks.

   Camila’s heart aches and she forces back tears.

   “Yeah, baby.” She admits, shakily, “Like me.”

   She presses another kiss to her head, gently rocking them both, as she tries to stop her tears from falling.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Bringing you another spam update!!!

Some politics in this one as I don't mention Naravi politics much. Rereading this as I post it creates many ideas for a possible sequel.
Alba is the cutest, she's only five 3. I can't remember when she turns six but it might be during the six month jump or after season three. If it comes up, i'll come back to this point.
also Satine mention. I miss her.

Anyway, hope you liked this chapter. I posted this while listening to the Dutch GP. IT IS INTENSE!

Chapter 42: imperial

Summary:

Camila visits the Naravian rebels and recieves an unexpected call...

 

 

ego volo bonum aliud quam bellum – i wish i was good at something other than war

 

 

   Camila glares up at the large news display. Her scarf hides her hair and part of her face, and she wears civilian clothing to blend in with the crowds, instead of her usual flowing dresses and fancy jewellery. 

   Orpheus had switched on to the Imperial News, which is normal for this time of day – 11.00. The Imperial logo is projected behind the background of the Imperial reporter as he sings the praises of the Emperor. Camila rolls her eyes and turns away, lowering her head. She weaves through the crowds, her bag hidden under a cloak. She comes to a stop at a house and knocks sharply, three times. The door cracks open and she pulls her scarf down to reveal her face. The lady who answered the door lights up in recognition and is quick to let her in. 

   She follows the woman down the entrance hall and into the back room; the dining room table has been pulled into the middle of the room, many chairs gathered around it. 

   Camila settles into one of the seats, smiling at a few familiar faces. She rarely attends these kinds of meetings but considering recent debates at the Palace, she feels compelled to share the ideas around the system’s neutrality. 

   She looks around the table, trying to identify everyone there. Doctor Yamiz sits opposite her, with another doctor she didn’t recognise beside her. Orpheus’ sister, Tabiella, is sitting at the far end of the table, conversing with a few of her friends. Beside her, Camila’s mother’s old friends, Eliza, Belle and Mayri, are chatting, Eliza sending Camila a gentle smile. The last time they’d seen each other was when Camila’s mother had died. A few others are also at the table, but she doesn’t recognise most of them. 

   Then, someone else walks into the room and Camila’s eyes widen in surprise. The Queen’s advisor, Clemac Dos, follows the group’s leader into the dining room. He meets her eyes almost immediately and smiles. Camila watches him, stunned, as he walks over to her and slips into the free seat between her and the head of the table.

   “What are you doing here?” She hisses.

   “The same thing as you, my dear.” He replies.

   She squints at him then, upon noticing no alternate reasoning in his eyes, her eyes relax and she nods in approval.

   “Fair enough.” She mutters under her breath and fixes her attention onto the group’s leader. 

   Agandaur Herrorran is a dark-skinned Naravian male, who’s been running their little network since the beginning of the Clone War. He’d reached out to her in 24 BBY, sometime before she first met Rex, and had proposed the idea of a network of sympathisers and supporters that would look after Naravi IV and the neighbouring planets should an invasion or any other occurrence happen. She had immediately jumped on the idea and they’d begun coordinating meetings, recruiting members and organising small movements and support trips. Supplies were sent to other planets, people were hired as pilots and spies. They even recruited a few members in the Republic Police Force and Mechanic Corps. Camila had asked Hazel to contribute early on and, in between missions, she and the Batch would sometimes run errands or collect intel – not that Hazel always told her squad the truth behind those errands. 

   After the war ended, their network continued operating in the shadows of the Empire. But they’d become tighter, more secretive, and had even lost a few members. The Empire ruled with terror and the fear they wielded like a hammer had knocked out a few of their sources.

   Aganadaur sits at the head of the table and the meeting begins. One of the pilots towards the end of the table reveals how their numbers are dwindling and they need more assistance.

   “Ever since the Empire came into power, they’ve been growing scared. They don’t want to put their families at risk.” The pilot reveals, “And we don’t think we can rely much on outside help.”

   Camila’s eyes lower to the worn table. Normally, Hazel would be helping but she’d been busy not being in contact and trying to save Omega. She’d ask Kaya but she’s doing the same thing. 

   “It’s not just pilots,” Tabiella adds, “We’re losing members too. Our spies on neighbouring planets have stopped sending transmissions. The same in other systems.” She turns to Camila, “Are we still receiving information from contacts within the Empire?”

   She doesn’t reply straight away, sparing Agandaur a glance.

   “I didn’t have that many to begin with.” She admits, “But I’ve lost a few. I’m worried the Empire has discovered our link. Or they’ve bailed. Either way, I have very little access to Imperial information.”

   The atmosphere grows tense and sad. 

   “And in regards to neutrality?” Mayri asks, quietly. 

   Camila glances at Clemac.

   “The system is not to go neutral.” Clemac reveals, “In regards to the safety of the people, we have decided to remain as a part of the Imperial Senate. We cannot afford invasion or put anybody at risk should we leave it. It’s best for everyone this way.”

   Camila nods and those in the room sigh and murmur to each other.

   “We understand your reasoning.” Agandaur announces, interrupting the mutters, “If we are to remain under the radar it is best not to draw attention to ourselves by leaving the Senate.”

   He sends the two a small smile and they nod in response.

   “Are we aware of any other specs of rebellion outside of our system? Anyone else against the Empire?” He asks next. 

   “There’s been rumours.” Tabiella reveals, “Orpheus has heard things.”

   “What kind of things?” The pilot from before asks. 

   “Attacks on Imperial shipments. Spies. That kind of stuff.” She replies.

   Camila nods.

   “I have heard the same.” She confirms, “There are also clones leaving the Empire.”

   Her mind flickers to Rex and Echo but she’s quick to vanquish that from her mind, not allowing any sign of recognition or knowing appear on her face.

   “Clones?” Eliza frowns at her.

   “A clone rebellion. Of sorts. They no longer wish to serve the Empire so fellow brothers help them escape. And they run missions against the Empire. Attacking convoys. Stealing information.”

   “How do you know this?” Doctor Yamiz asks. 

   Camila shrugs.

   “I haven’t lost all of my sources, y’know.”

   Yamiz frowns but doesn’t say anything.

   “That is a good thing.” Agandaur says, “If people are against the Empire now, then we must hold hope for the future. Even if they are clones.”

   “How do you know it’s true?” Tabiella asks, “I mean they’re clones, for gods sake. They turned on the Jedi.”

   “They were being controlled.” Camila reveals with a sigh, “A chip. Installed by the Emperor during their creation. The Jedi were unaware. When the Republic and the Jedi Order fell, it was because the Emperor activated these chips. Turned the Republic’s own army against the Jedi.”

   “Who’s to say that won’t happen again?” Someone asks.

   “Because they have found a way to remove these chips.”

   Someone scoffs and protests and other assumptions fill the room. 

   “Maybe revealing that detail wasn’t such a good idea.” Clemac whispers to her. 

   She gives him a deadpan look but she knows he’s right. They wanted hope for rebellion and she’d told them of Imperial traitors. 

   “How do you know this?” Agandaur asks, leaning towards her.

   She doesn’t reply, straight away.

   “That’s on a need-to-know basis.” She says.

   “Well, can I know?” 

   She shakes her head and he leans back.

   “Alright. Enough!” He shouts, the room falling silent again, “This is reliable intel. If even the Empire’s own men are turning against them then there is hope.”

   “Would there be a way for them to help us?” Yamiz’s friend asks, quietly.

   “I’ll look into it.” Camila says, glancing towards Agandaur. 

   The woman nods and soon enough the conversation moves on. Camila releases a silent sigh. She doesn’t want to have to throw Rex under the hoverbus but one question circles their meeting. Should they be doing more?

 

   Camila walks into the living room and sheds her cloak, dumping it onto the couch. She rolls her neck back and unravels her scarf. She feels herself relax in the quiet of her rooms, the peace massaging the knots from her body. 

   Unfortunately, this doesn’t last long when Lieutenant Hazeen stumbles in from the direction of her office. She frowns at him in confusion.

   “Were you just in my office?” She asks.

   “Your emergency channel, my lady. It’s been going off like crazy. Inej has had to answer it.” He informs her. 

   Camila’s eyes widen and she’s quick to follow him to her office. When she walks in, she spots Inej standing in front of a hologram. The person on the holo is arguing quietly with the handmaiden. 

   “This is urgent. Please, fetch the Senator!” The person is saying.

   “Ma’am, I don’t think you unders— My lady.” Inej bows her head when she spots the Senator, and is quick to rush over to her.

   “Mila, this woman has demanded that she speaks with you. I don’t know how she got our channel.” Inej rambles as they walk around Camila’s desk.

   “Okay. Thank you, Inej.” Camila places a reassuring hand on her maid’s arm.

   “Camila. Finally.” The holo says. 

   Camila’s head darts up in surprise. She stares at the hologram, shocked at who it is. Jayana is dressed in her usual Jedi robes, a duel ended saber attached to her belt. The girl’s hair has been pulled back into a series of buns and braids and her eyes are darkened by makeup. She looks so different yet so familiar.

   Camila bites down on her lip, an angry expression casting over her face. Inej glances towards Hazeen. The only times they’ve ever seen the Senator this angry was with Rex.

   “What are you doing, Skywalker?” Camila bites out.

   “Cammie, listen, please.” Jayana begs.

   “If you think I’m going to listen after what you’ve pulled. You almost killed them.” She scoffs.

   “I know, I know.” Jayana says, a heartbreaking tone to her voice, “And it hurts. I hate myself for it but I don’t… I don’t want to do this anymore. I want to go home.”

   Camila’s heart aches at her words, but she’s quick to try and ignore it. This could be a trick.

   “How do I know this isn’t fake? How can I trust you after what you’ve done?”

   “Because I know you, Camila. Omega escaped. She took Crosshair with her. But there are so many people here that need help. So many secrets that need to be revealed to the galaxy.” Jayana admits.

   Camila’s eyes widen. They escaped?!

   “Are you tricking me into finding out where they are?” Camila asks, her angry expression easing.

   “What? No! They’ll be fine.” Jayana shrugs it off, smiling slightly, “They’re smart. Crosshair will watch the kid… or the kid will watch Cross, which is probably more likely. She’s like a little genius. Reminds me of Tech and Hazel.”

   Camila smiles at the mention of the little girl. She is a lot like Tech and Hazel.

   “What I’m saying is, I want out, Cammie. I don’t want to be here. I thought I turned for a reason. To save Anakin, to protect the Batch, but…” Her face falls and she looks down, “I’ve hurt people. I’ve hurt them. My family. And I know they’ll never take me back, but I’ve got to do something right. It won’t stop the pain, but it’ll prevent further hurt by my hands.”

   Camila sighs. She can hear the bare honesty in the Inquisitor's voice, see it on her face. She’s cautious but she knows the Empire to a point. And Jayana has an inside edge.

   “What is it?” 

   “There are children and clones here. Hemlock has created these assassins and he’s sent them out to bring in force sensitives and eliminate threats. One of these guys brought in Omega. They experiment on these kids, running tests and all sorts. I don't know why. If they wanted them to become Inquisitors then they should send them to Arkansis with me, but they haven’t.” Jayana shakes her head, “I’m too far in to do anything myself but I don’t want them to go down the same path as me. I have trained Inquisitors, stared into their eyes. The hunt, the anger, it controls and consumes them. They’re kids, Camila. They’re just little kids. I can’t do this to them.”

   Camila nods, frowning in thought. 

   “Where are you?” Inej asks, a small glare present on her face. 

   “I’m sorry, are you Camila?” Jayana says, sarcastically.

   Camila rolls her eyes, “Easy, Jayana. Everyone in this room I trust with my life.”

   “In this room? Who else is there?” The former Jedi crosses her arms, a small scowl appearing on her face. 

   Camila gestures at Hazeen and the Lieutenant steps up beside her.

   “This is my Lieutenant.” She says.

   Jayana hums, looking at Hazeen and Inej with obvious distaste. 

   “I’m sorry we aren’t up to your standards, High Inquisitor.” Inej mocks, rolling her eyes and crossing her own arms. 

   Camila grins slightly, looking down to hide her laugh.

   “You’re not very trusting.” Jayana chuckles.

   “Have you looked in a mirror?” Hazeen asks, raising an eyebrow, “You can’t ask us to trust you. After everything you’ve done.”

   Jayana stares at him and then sighs.

   “Seriously, though, where are you?” Camila asks, breaking the tension.

   “Mount Tantiss.” She reveals.

   The three pull matching faces of confusion and disbelief.

   “Mount Tantiss?” 

   “Never heard of it.”

   “Where the hell is that?”

   Jayana rolls her eyes.

   “I can try and get you coordinates but it won’t be easy.”

   “What do you mean, it won’t be easy? You’re there aren’t you, or you’ve been there?” Inej scoffs.

   “Yes.” Jayana glares at her, “But they’re very secretive. It’s a secret base. You know what secret means, right?”

   “This is the first time that you’ve stated it’s a secret.” Hazeen points out.

   “Enough you three.” Camila interrupts, rolling her eyes.

   “Do you really let your staff talk like this?” Jayana asks. 

   “I trust them more than you.” Camila says, causing Jayana to drop the subject, “Can you get us blueprints? And more information, so we can try and save these kids. I know some people who can help with the clones as well.”

   Jayana frowns slightly, before nodding slowly.

   “I can try. I’m not there right now, but I can try.”

   “If this is a trap, Skywalker, I’m going to be really, really annoyed.” Camila threatens.

   “It’s not. I promise.” She says but they all eye her suspiciously, “Thank you, Cammie.”

   The call ends and she disappears. They all stare at where she was, unsure what to say.

   “I don’t trust her.” Hazeen says.

   “Neither.” Inej agrees.

   “Yeah, I know.” Camila replies, and sinks into her office chair. The two leave her side to stand on the other side of her desk, “But, for some reason, I can tell she’s not lying. I’ve known her for a long time.”

   “And she betrayed everyone. She’s Imperial. She tried to kill your sister.” Inej points out.

   “A lot of people try to kill my sister.” Camila reminds, tiredly.

   “Just,” Hazeen sighs, “Don’t jump straight into this. If the Empire finds out, we’re toast.”

   “I know. I’ll be careful.”

   They both leave, letting her be alone with her thoughts as she replays the situation in her head. She lets out a groan and runs a hand over her face. 

   Today is not a good day.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

So, what do people think?
That was... a lot.
NARAVIAN REBELS!!!! I love this little idea. And they will come up again. Also OMEGA and CROSSHAIR escaped. We are officially in season three. and JAYANA SKYWALKER! My lovely, broken girl. She's been through a lot. One day, I will continue writing her story more than the six chapters I've already written. You will see more of her in the final act of this.
Ri'vane sister reunion....

<3

BOTH FERRARIS OUT!!! WHAT IS GOING ON?!!!!

Chapter 43: password

Summary:

Camila makes a call and recieves one...

 

 

vivo, morior; super me mare venit, caeruleum est quod durat – I live, I die; the sea comes over me, it's the blue that lasts

 

 

   Her fingers rap against the table, her leg shaking as she stares at the holodisk.

   “Pick up, pick up, pick up.” She mutters. The call beeps and the noise stops. 

   No answer.

   She groans loudly and leans back in her chair. Why isn’t he answering? This is serious!

   It’s finally dawned on her that Jayana said that Omega escaped. And that she took Crosshair with her. She needs confirmation. 

   She reaches forwards and dials a new code. The call just runs out again, and she hits the desk. Even Echo’s not answering. The one time she actually needs to talk to them for an important reason, they don’t pick up. They have these things for a reason!

   She rolls her eyes and gets to her feet. Her civilian clothing is starting to itch at her skin. She leaves her office and goes to change in her room. She attempts to call Rex again, to no avail. 

   She walks into the living room with a frown. Alba is sitting on the couch with one of her friends, the pair looking up when she enters.

   “Hey, Mama.” Alba greets as Camila walks over to them.

   “Hey, baby.” She smiles and kisses the top of Alba’s head, “What are you two doing?”

   “We’re playing battlefront.” Alba’s friend, Carlee, tells her. 

   “Looks fun! I love that game.” Camila grins, making her way into the kitchen. 

   She begins to make herself a cup of caff, trying to come up with another way to find out the truth. A brain wave hits her and she grins. 

   She settles into a chair at the kitchen table, a fresh mug of caff in her hand, and dials a new code. The holocall rings out and then Gregor appears. He frowns at her in confusion.

   “Hey, Mila. What is it?” 

   “Hey, Gregor. Is Rex or Echo there?” She asks.

   “No, why?” His frown then turns into a knowing grin, “Are you missing your boyfriend?”

   “What? No! Gregor, we’re not together.” She stares at him, incredulously. 

   “Right.” He chuckles, shaking his head.

   “Look,” She shakes her head, trying to dismiss his statement and ignore the raging feelings in her stomach, “Can you find something out for me?”

   “Sure, what?” 

   “Can you find out if Omega has been reunited with the Bad Batch?” 

   Gregor frowns in confusion.

   “Wouldn’t you know?” He asks, making her roll her eyes, “And isn’t she still with the Empire?”

   “Yeah, no. An unreliable source told me that she and Crosshair escaped.” She tells him. 

   “Crosshair?” His eyes go wide in surprise. 

   “He betrayed the Empire.” She raises an eyebrow at him, “Like, months ago. Where have you been?”

   Gregor rolls his eyes at her sarcasm. 

   “Okay, alright. Give me a sec.” 

   He disappears from the holo and she shakes her head at him. Camila picks up her mug and takes a sip of the caff. It burns her tongue and she scowls at it, before starting to blow on it to try and cool it down.

   “I’m back.” Gregor sits back down in front of the holo, a tablet in hand. 

   Camila puts her mug down and sits up, curiously. 

   “Let me just try and get into Echo’s holo.” He mutters. 

   She leans forward and rests her elbows on the table, her head propped up by her hands.

   “Damn it.” He curses, “Do you have any idea what Echo’s password is?”

   She stares at him, incredulously. 

   “Why would I know that?”

   “I don’t know.” He shrugs, “You might do. Never know.”

   She shakes her head, looking away in annoyance.

   “Let me call him.” He mutters. She watches as he picks up his commlink and turns it on.

   “Hey Echo, I have a question.” 

   There’s silence for a second before Echo’s tired voice comes over the comm.

   “Gregor, I’m kind of in the middle of something.” 

   Camila leans on one hand, eager to see how it plays out.

   “I need you to tell me your password to your holopad.” Gregor says, ignoring Echo’s apparent situation. 

   “Oh, no, no. Absolutely not. You’re going to do something stupid or spam somebody.” Echo denies quickly, “There’s no way I’m doing that. Use Howzer’s or something.”

   “No, he’s not.” Howzer steps into the frame, crossing his arms, “You are not touching my stuff again.”

   “What are you talking about?” Gregor stares up at his brother in confusion.

   “Erm, my armour.” Howzer throws his hands in the air, “It took me a week to get that ink out.”

   “That was an accident!” Gregor protests and Camila tries to stifle a laugh.

   “Yeah, I’m not giving you my password.” Echo says.

   Gregor groans as Howzer walks away, sending a smile towards Camila. 

   “It’s not for me, it’s for Mila.” Gregor tells him.

   “Why does Mila want it?” Echo asks in confusion.

   “Hey Echo.” Camila speaks up.

   “Mila?” 

   “Yeah, hi. I’m on holo with Gregor, ‘cause he’s the only one that seems to answer me.” Camila says. 

   Echo doesn’t say anything for a second and Gregor grins.

   “Erm…” He tries to come up with a reason and she jokingly rolls her eyes, “I’m busy?”

   “Doing what?” She asks.

   “Work?”

   She rolls her eyes again and leans back in her chair. 

   “What do you need?” Echo asks.

   “I need to know if one of the Batch called you.” She says.

   “Why?”

   “Apparently Omega and Crosshair escaped.” Gregor informs him.

   “What?!” 

   Gregor laughs at his outburst and Camila can’t help but grin as well. 

   “I’ve gotta call Hunter.” Echo says.

   “Or just tell us your password, and we can call him.” Gregor says.

   “Still no.” Echo replies then it goes silent.

   Gregor sighs and rolls his eyes.

   “Sorry about that.”

   “No, it makes sense.” Camila nods. He looks at her confused.

   “I’d never trust you with my password either.” She tells him. His mouth falls open in shock and she’s quick to say goodbye and end the call. 

   She sighs and leans her head on the table. This is what she gets for not visiting her sister sooner.

 

   The next day, Camila is sitting out on her balcony. A few files are resting against her lap and she’s slowly working her way through the numbers and bills. It’s getting late and she’s spent the majority of the day listening to holorecordings of the latest Senate sessions. She hasn’t been to Coruscant in over a week and Talia has fallen into a habit of recording all the sessions for her. 

   The beeping of her comm interrupts her trail of thought and she lets out a huff. She reaches into her pocket and pulls out the device to answer it.

   “Senator Ri’vane.” She greets, fed up. 

   “Mila?” 

   “Hazel?” Camila sits up, the files forgotten. Her sister lets out a surprised laugh and Camila grips the comm tightly.

   “Hazel, is that really you?” Camila asks, her eyes welling with tears at the familiar sound of her sister’s voice.

   “Yeah. It’s me, Mimi, it’s me.” Hazel chuckles.

   “It’s been so long. I’ve been so worried.” Camila cries.

   “Are you crying?”

   “Shut up! It’s been six months.” Camila defends.

   Hazel laughs again, then sniffs, indicating that she’s probably crying as well.

   “I’ve missed you so much.” She admits and Camila grins through her happy tears.

   “I’ve missed you too.”

   They fall silent for a second, only their sniffs and happy giggles filling the connection.

   “How have you been?” Camila asks and her sister sighs.

   “I’ve been better.” She says, “I just… miss them, y’know.”

   “Yeah, I know.” A crestfallen expression appears on Mila’s face, “I miss them too.”

   “Yeah…” Hazel mutters.

   “I really wish I were there” Camila sighs.

   “I wish you were here too.” Hazel sniffs and Camila leans back into her seat.

   “Is it true?” Camila asks.

   “What?”

   “Did Omega and Crosshair escape?” 

   Hazel lets out a relieved laugh, “Yeah. Yeah, they did. We-We just picked them up.”

   Camila’s whole body relaxes and she lets out a sigh of relief.

   “Oh, thank the gods. My source was so unreliable. I’ve been trying to find out all of yesterday afternoon and all of today. For some reason, no one seems to pick up their comm.” She complains.

   Hazel chuckles, quietly.

   “Yeah. We’re so happy they’re back.” She says, a weird tone to her voice.

   “What’s wrong?” Camila asks.

   “I don’t know.” Hazel says, “It was just weird seeing him, y’know. I mean it’s been nearly two years.”

   “Oh, yeah.” Camila nods in realisation, “That’s gonna be so strange.”

   “It’s like he's there but he’s not. He’s so reserved and quiet and anxious.” Hazel tells her.

   “How did you all take it?” Camila asks.

   “Well, Hunter was not happy.” Hazel tells her, earning a small laugh, “Neither was Wrecker to be honest. Astoria was more worried about Omega at that moment but she’s been avoiding him. And Kaya–”

   “Wait, Kaya’s there?” Camila interrupts.

   “Yeah, she joined us a few days ago. Said she’s still tracking our ship, or something.” Hazel says.

   “She was tracking your ship?” Camila frowns.

   “Yeah… that wasn’t really a surprise.” She admits. 

   Camila shakes her head, dismissing the new information.

   “And what did you think?” She asks.

   “Of the tracker?”

   “No, of Crosshair.” She rolls her eyes at the younger girl.

   “OH. I… I kind of just went along with it. I mean, I hugged him.” She says.

   “Yo-You hugged him?” Camila frowns.

   “Yeah.” Hazel replies, unfazed, “I mean, I believe Omega. And I could see it. I could see that he’s been through a lot. My heart just aches for him.”

   Camila blinks rapidly for a second then shakes her head.

   “Fair enough, I guess.”

   “What are you up to?” Hazel asks, “How’s Alba? And Rex?”

   “Busy, mostly. Same as Rex. Alba’s fine, she’s just going along with everything. Rex is barely here and I'm always working. I mean, I try my best but I know she’s disappointed. I just don’t know what to do.” Camila rambles, “And she was so heartbroken over Tech, Lena and Omega. I honestly think we’re terrible parents–”

   “Okay, no way!” Hazel interrupts, “Do not say that! You and Rex are great parents. I mean you especially. You looked after that girl for five years. She is beautiful, talented and smart. She’s so wonderful. You’ve raised her so well, Mila. You are not terrible.”

   Camila sighs, and leans her head back.

   “You think so?”

   “Are you kidding?!” Hazel exclaims, “You are the best mother in the world, Mila! She’s so lucky to have you. And it’s not your fault you can’t be there, you have a busy life. And so does Rex. I’ve seen him with her. He’s a great father.”

   “Wow, Haze. I think that’s the first time you’ve ever paid Rex a compliment.” She raises an amused eyebrow.

   “Don’t tell him I said that.” Hazel warns and Camila laughs.

   “Thank you.” She mutters, after a while.

   “You’re welcome.”

   “Are you heading back to Pabu?” Camila asks.

   “Yeah. We’re on our way there now.”

   Camila contemplates for a second, her fingers tapping on the arm of her chair.

   “Mila? You still there?” Hazel asks.

   “Yeah, I just had an idea.”

   “Oh no.” Hazel says, jokingly.

   Camila rolls her eyes.

   “What if… we paid you a visit?” She asks, hesitantly.

   Hazel doesn’t reply for a second and Camila bites her lip.

   “Really?” She says, emotionally. 

   Camila nods, then realises that Hazel can’t see, and voices her confirmation.

   “Yeah. I’ll bring Alba. She’ll be so happy to see Omega.” Camila continues, softly.

   “Please. I really want to see you.” Hazel says, with a sniff.

   “Of course. We’ll leave in an hour. Just send me the coordinates.”

   After a happy and slightly tearful goodbye, Camila is quick to get up from her seat and go search for her daughter.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

HEADING TO PABU!!! YAYAYAYAYAY

Also, love Gregor and Mila's friendship. She has more friends from the war then one might think. I also love to include clone brothers and their relationships. THEIR BANTER !!!!
Hazel and Mila hold my heart.

 

Bro second safety car!

Chapter 44: pabu

Summary:

the mother and daughter journey to pabu...

 

 

inter se redimus in undas. sic aqua amet – we return to each other in waves. this is how water loves

 

 

   Camila watches Alba as the young girl stares out of the cockpit, an excited smile on her face.

   “Are you excited?” Camila asks. 

   Alba turns to her, nodding rapidly. 

   “Omega told me all about this place!” She says, “And we finally get to see Auntie Hazel!”

   Camila chuckles. 

   “There’s a surprise for you too.” She adds, turning back to the console.

   “What?” 

   Camila doesn’t reply, instead she leans forward and pulls the Starbird out of hyperspace.

   “Are you going to be my co-pilot?” Camila asks, glancing towards her daughter. 

   Alba grins and nods quickly. 

   “Can you engage the landing protocols? Like we talked about.” Camila says, as they enter the Pabu’s atmosphere. She activates the stabilisers to stop the rocking. 

   Beside her, Alba eagerly flicks the switches for the sequence that Camila has coached her through many times. 

   This ship slows as they approach the island and she brings it around to circle the courtyard that Hazel had instructed them to land on. A few people are standing in wait as Camila goes through the final part of the landing sequence. She hovers over the area beside the Marauder and begins to lower the ship to land. 

   As soon as they touch the floor, Alba is up and out of her seat. Camila rolls her eyes and quickly finishes up with the ship before chasing after her, grabbing her body wrap on the way. She drapes it over her shoulders multiple times as she descends the ramp. In front of her, Alba runs quickly into Hazel’s awaiting arms. The aunt stands, clutching her niece, and spinning them around. The young girl exclaims loudly in delight and Hazel laughs.

   Camila shakes her head, walking over to them.

   “This is the happiest I’ve seen her all week.” She states, as her daughter is placed back on the ground.

   Hazel grins at her, bittersweet, and Camila pulls her into a long, tight hug. She breathes in her sister’s familiar smell of oil and tropical perfume – which complement each other in weird ways. As they pull apart, Alba squeals loudly, startling them. They both jump, looking away from each other as the nearly six year old runs towards a thrilled-looking Omega. 

   “She looks so much older.” Camila points out, her arm still around her sister.

   “Tell me about it.” Hazel mutters, shaking her head.

   Camila turns back to her and gently holds her head, her thumbs stroking her sister’s cheeks. 

   “You have to tell me everything.” She says and Hazel nods, biting her lip as if to hide her tears. 

   “Mila?” Astoria approaches them rapidly and Camila steps away from Hazel to hug the medic. 

   “How are you, Tori?” She says into the girl’s ear.

   “I’m alright.” Astoria admits as they pull apart. They both smile softly at each other. Wrecker then appears by her side and Camila’s hugged by him as well. She chuckles at the clone as she’s placed back on the ground.

   “Yeah, they’re doing alright.” 

   Camila turns to see Kaya swing an arm around Hazel’s shoulders.

   “I called you three days ago. Why didn’t you answer?” Camila deadpans, sending the bounty hunter a glare.

   Kaya grimaces and looks away from the Senator.

   “Mila. It’s good to see you.” Hunter greets her with a smile, stepping up between Hazel and Wrecker. 

   “Mimi, you remember Crosshair, right?” Kaya gestures towards their final addition to the group. The grumpy sniper stands a bit away from them, glancing towards Hazel every now and then as if for reassurance. 

   “Yes. It’s good to see you.” Camila nods, politely, stepping back beside Astoria. 

   The clone nods at her, then looks towards Omega and Alba. 

   “Crosshair, that’s my niece, Alba.” Hazel tells him softly. She steps away from Kaya and closer to the clone, “She’s Rex and Mila’s daughter.”

   Crosshair’s eyes flicker over to the Senator in surprise.

   “Rex has a kid?” He mutters.

   “It’s a long story.” Camila admits. She walks past them and over to the two gushing girls, the others slowly following. 

   “Meg?” Camila calls softly. The young teen turns and her face lights up even more at the sight of her.

   “Mila!” She shouts happily. She runs into Camila’s open arms and the Senator hugs her tightly. She presses a kiss to the top of Omega’s head, the young girl coming up to her shoulders.

   “You’ve gotten so tall.” Camila says, pulling away slightly, “How are you, sweetie? I missed you so much.”

   “I missed you too.” Omega admits, her hand gripping Camila’s tightly, “I’m good.”

   Camila grins, running a hand through the teen’s hair. The others walk past and Hazel wraps an arm around her sister’s waist, letting her join them as they walk away from the courtyard; the two girls walk ahead, the adults watching them closely.

   “How’s Rex?” Astoria asks, “We haven’t seen him in ages.”

   “He’s alright.” Camila shrugs, her grin falling, “I hope. I haven’t heard from him in over a month.”

   “Really?” Hazel frowns at her in confusion.

   “I know, it’s weird. He hasn’t even been answering my calls.” Her eyes lower to the stone ground as they walk and she doesn’t notice the others exchanging looks.

   “I’m sure he’s just busy.” Hunter says and she hums.

   Sometime later, they are all sat around the Batch’s kitchen. Crosshair and Hunter hover by the window, a noticeable distance between them, as they watch Omega and Alba play in the garden; Wrecker leans against the kitchen counter, watching from a distance. The four women are sitting around the kitchen table, sipping on their cups of caff. 

   “Have you spoken to Echo recently?” Camila asks, looking towards Kaya.

   The hunter shakes her head and puts her cup down.

   “Are you two still not together?” The Senator stares at her in surprise. 

   Kaya raises a displeased eyebrow.

   “Are you and Rex still not together?” She counters.

   Camila’s face falls into a deadpan look and the other two chuckle. 

   “Exactly.” Kaya says, eyes wide and laughing.

   Camila rolls her eyes and sips her caff, glancing towards Omega and Alba.

   “Have you talked to Echo?” Astoria asks.

   “Kinda.” 

   The three frown at her.

   “What do you mean ‘kinda’?” Hazel asks.

   “Well, I called Gregor the other day and then he called Echo while he was still calling me so I talked to him through Gregor.” Camila explains.

   They stare at her for a second.

   “Okay.” 

   “Fair enough.”

   “Makes sense.” Come the muttered replies and Camila nods in understanding.

   They lapse into silence and sip on their caffs. 

   “Are you enjoying life here?” Camila asks, looking between them.

   “It’s peaceful.” Hazel nods, smiling softly, “And comfortable. Reminds me of home sometimes.”

   Camila nods, smiling back at her. There’s a beeping from one of the rooms and Kaya gets up. Camila glances towards her as she disappears into one of the rooms. 

   “Did you ever find out where Omega was being held?” Camila asks. 

   “Cross said something about a mountain.” 

   They look towards the sniper. He glances back at them, then does a double take, looking between the three women, uncomfortably.

   “What?” He frowns at them, his voice low.

   “Where you and Omega were held. Was that Mount Tantiss?” Camila shifts in her chair, looking at him, curiously.

   They all look at her with a frown.

   “Yeah. How’d you know that?” Crosshair eyes her and she looks down.

   “The same unreliable source that told me you two escaped.” She looks between them all. She can’t tell them the truth about Jayana. She has no idea how they’ll react to her apparent betrayal to the Empire. 

   They all frown at her. 

   “Who’s your source?” Hunter asks.

   Camila grimaces slightly, her grip on her mug tightening. 

   “Does it matter?” She questions, quietly, looking down at the worn table. 

   The others all share looks.

   “Mila…”

   They’re interrupted by Kaya dashing back into the kitchen. They look towards her, startled.

   “What is it?” Wrecker asks her.

   She gestures back at her room. 

   “Echo just called.” She starts.

   Omega and Alba run in but pause at the silent adults. Hazel glances at the kids and frowns at her friend.

   “What does he want?” She asks.

   “He’s on his way here.” 

   They all sit up a bit. Omega frowns and looks between them as Alba walks over to Hazel. The aunt pulls her niece onto her lap, wrapping her arms around the little girl’s waist. 

   “Who is?” Omega asks.

   “Echo.” Crosshair tells her, gaining her attention briefly as he crosses his arms.

   “Really?” Her face lights up and they all grin at her reaction (excluding Crosshair). 

   Soon enough, the group is standing in the courtyard again. Omega is jumping on the balls of her feet, her excitement to see the clone obvious. Alba waits beside her, the young girl just as excited as her friend. 

   A ship flies over and gets ready to land. Kaya, Astoria and Hazel stand shoulder to shoulder near the two younger girls; Hunter and Wrecker behind the kids. Crosshair lingers by the archway and Camila patiently waits part of the way between him and the others. She probably sees him more than they do. 

   Echo descends the ship stairs and Omega runs towards him. He crouches to welcome her in a hug and the others follow slowly behind. He hugs Alba next, the young ranting happily in his ear about something. Camila waits behind them all. She looks back towards Crosshair and the sniper meets her eyes, expressionless. She smiles, kindly, at him, and gestures her head in the direction of the ship. He shakes his head and looks away. She rolls her eyes and walks over to the ship anyway. 

   There's a squeal and Alba jumps into somebody’s arms. Camila shakes her head, joining Hazel at her side.

   “I think I just went deaf.” Kaya remarks.

   “Tell me about it.” Hazel grumbles, “Alba’s like an excited loth cat.”

   They both grin and Camila wraps a comforting arm around her sister. Alba’s placed back on her feet and the one hugging her stands. Camila’s eyes widen as he meets her eyes.

   “Mila? Hey.”

   “Hey, Rex.” Camila stares back at him, her arm dropping from Hazel’s back. 

   “Didn’t know you were here.” He says, smiling slightly. Alba reaches up and takes his hand, causing him to smile down at his daughter.

   “Didn’t know you were coming.” She replies, with a shrug, crossing her arms over her chest. 

   The others stand in between them, glancing at each other.

   “This just got really awkward.” Kaya mutters and Hazel hums in agreement. 

   Camila shoots them a look and they both produce matching grins. She rolls her eyes at the two and the group starts talking again, filling the awkward silence.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

awkward family reunions seem to become my strong suit at this point.
omega and alba reunited <333 they're so cute. i'm so excited to write them in the og trilogy... maybe omega turns up in rebels...

 

Holy Shit. Lando's on fire and another safety car!!

Chapter 45: busy

 

 

pessimus pars amoris est quod memini me – the worst part of love is that I remember it

 

 

   A few hours later, the two girls have worn themselves down to the point of exhaustion. Camila leans against the doorframe to Omega’s room, loving eyes locked onto the pair of them curled up together in Omega’s bed. Hunter appears behind her and she looks back at him; an unreadable expression is on his face as he watches the two girls.

   “Are you alright, Sergeant?” She asks, softly.

   He nods, then looks towards her. 

   “You can be honest with me, y’know.” She says, stepping away from the doorframe. 

   He glances back down the hall but the others are still in the kitchen. Camila gently pulls the bedroom door shut and Hunter sighs.

   “I’ve been better.” He admits, “It’s just weird without them.”

   Camila nods in understanding, waiting patiently. 

   “I mean, Tech’s always been there and Lena...” He gulps and looks down. Camila watches him, saddened and unsure as to what to say.

   “I didn’t like her at all when we first met, but she grew on me. I loved her so much.” He looks back at her, tears welling in his eyes. It takes a lot for Camila not to hug him. 

   “I know.” She opts to reassuringly rub his arm instead, “She knew that. They both did. And she loved you too, Hunter.”

   “Then why did she fall?” He mumbles, “She had the power to save them both.”

   “I don’t know.” She sighs, looking down and tucking her hands into her sleeves, “But she made her choice and you’re just going to have to live with that. She wouldn’t want you to be so hung up on her.”

   “Yeah, I know.” He sniffs and turns away from her to face the door. Her eyes don’t leave him, but she’s silent; her presence offers a sense of calmness to him. Her heart rate was steady and her movements were smooth. 

   Then her heart rate picks up quite quickly, just as quiet footsteps walk down the hall. Hunter glances at the newcomer and snorts quietly. 

   Camila shifts on her feet, her hands clenching. She glances at Hunter and the Sergeant raises an amused eyebrow, clearly having sensed her change in demeanor. She frowns at him and turns to look out the window. 

   “They asleep?” Rex asks, stopping beside Hunter. He looks between the two in question.

   “Just nodded off.” Hunter confirms, biting back a laugh.

   Rex nods then looks towards Camila, the woman clearly ignoring him. He sighs and glances down.

   “I’ll leave you two alone.” Hunter says, slightly awkwardly. He could hear their heartbeats and sense the sexual tension. He pats Rex’s arm and sends Camila a look before walking away, desperate to escape the situation. Camila glares at his turned back.

   “Coward.” She mutters, silently.

   “Are you okay?” Rex asks, stepping closer to her.

   “Fine.” Her reply is clipped and short. She turns away from him and starts walking down the hall in the same direction as Hunter.

   “Mila? What is going on?” Rex follows after her.

   She walks into the kitchen, ignoring everyone turning to look at her, and slips out the front door. Rex walks in after her, a confused expression on her face.

   “Rex. What have you done now?” Kaya asks, leaning over the back of her chair. 

   Rex glances at her, annoyed at the accusation.

   “I don’t know. I barely said a word to her.” He defends.

   “Maybe that’s your problem.” Wrecker says, making Crosshair snicker quietly.

   He shoots an annoyed look at Wrecker then glances at Hazel. The girl raises her eyebrows at the attention.

   “Don’t look at me. It’s your mess, man.” She says, before pointing at him accusingly, “But if you screw up whatever is going on between you, I’m gonna kick your ass.”

   The others attempt to hide their signs of amusement and Rex glares at the agent. He then grabs his jacket and walks out the front door.

   Hunter shudders, turning to the others.

   “The sexual tension between them is insane.” He grumbles, his hands wrapping around his glass.

   “Tell me about it.” Echo complains, “He won’t stop talking about her.”

   “She hasn’t stopped worrying about him.” Kaya says, getting up and walking over to the sink, “They’ve barely seen each other in six months.”

   “I’m honestly surprised they haven’t slept together yet.” Hazel says, leaning her elbows on the table.

   “They haven’t slept together yet?” Wrecker stares at her, incredulously. 

   “Honey, no, they haven’t. Keep up.” Astoria places a hand on his arm. 

   “They’re not together?” Crosshair turns to Hazel. She shakes her head at him. 

   “They were ‘reunited’ nearly two years ago. Some time after that incident on Bracca.” She tells him.

   “They’ve kissed, but that’s about it.” Astoria adds.

   “They kissed?” Kaya looks at them, in confusion, settling into the seat beside Echo, “When was that?” 

   “About a year ago. At her beach house. We were all asleep.” Echo tells her.

   “Yeah, Mila told the girls after we left.” Hunter adds.

   “And they’re still not together?” Kaya’s eyes are wide with shock before she scoffs and leans back in her chair, “They’re worse than us.” She adds, nudging Echo. The clone nods and hums in agreement, sipping on his caff. 

 

   Rex follows Camila through the thin streets of Pabu. Neither know where they’re going but eventually Camila finds herself on a small secluded beach area. She huffs as Rex hurries onto the sand behind her. She turns, the back of her hand against her forehead as she looks for an escape. 

   “Mila, what is going on?” He holds his hands up, walking towards her.

   She shakes her head, turning away from him and walking further down the beach. 

   “Mila!” He calls after her, his footsteps against the sand are frustratingly loud. 

   “Please. No, Rex. I don’t want to do this.” She replies. A feeling of intense overwhelment and anxiety washes over her.

   “What are you talking about? I thought we were fine.” He says.

   “I thought we were too.” 

   “Then what’s going on?”

   She scoffs and spins around to him. He skids to a halt, his jacket flapping slightly in the wind. All her frustrations from the past few days come, immediately, to the forefront of her mind.

   “I’ve been calling you for three days.” She glares up at him, “Three days, Rex! And, out of everyone, Gregor is the only one who picks up?”

   “I’ve been busy.” He replies, a frustrated look on his face, “And Echo didn’t pick up either. Why are you mad at me? You’ve been busy too, no?”

   She rubs one of her eyes, turning to facing the ocean and drawing in a big breath. 

   “I don’t care about Echo. He can do what he likes.” She scoffs, “I want to know why you didn’t pick up. Did I do something?”

   “What? No!” He shakes his head, staring at her like she’s crazy.

   “Then why? Why are you ignoring me?” She holds her hands up, looking up at him.

   “I’m not ignoring you!” He defends.

   She sighs and turns away, starting to walk again.

   “Is this seriously what this is about?” He follows, “Because I didn’t pick up?”

   No. No, it’s not. All her feelings have been building up and he seems to be the easiest one to let them out on. All her realisations, all their moments, all this time. She’s so confused about them but their distance has only made things worse. 

   And yelling at him has always been the best way for her to focus her thoughts.

   “I don’t know.” She mutters, trying to walk away from him, but he doesn’t hear her and continues to follow.

   “Mila! I’m serious. What is going on?”

   “I don’t know!” She shouts, spinning around to face him, “I don’t. Know.” 

   He stares at her, his confusion returning. 

   “What do you mean? You don’t know why you’re mad at me?” He frowns.

   “No. Yes. Maybe.” She runs a hand through her curls, turning in place, “My thoughts are so kriffing crazy, right now, I don’t know what to make of them.”

   “Then chill out. We can talk about this.” He steps forward and reaches out to place his hands on her shoulders. 

   She shakes her head and steps away from him.

   “No. No. I can’t–please, don’t touch me.” She holds a hand up, her overstimulation building.

   “Okay, okay.” He holds his hands up in defence. 

   She draws in a few quick breaths, trying to steady her heart rate. 

   “Do you want to sit down?” He asks, in concern.

   “No. I’m fine.” She calms then turns to him.

   He sighs and meets her eyes, confusion and concern etched onto his face.

   “Mila, what’s going on? Why are you mad at me? What have I done?” He asks, calmly.

   She takes a deep breath, her eyes darting between his, a rather upset and overwhelmed expression on her face. 

   “Rex. Where have you been?” She asks.

   “What do you mean?”

   “Well, it’s been over a month since I last saw you. You’ve barely spoken to either of us. And I know you’ve been busy, but, Gods, Rex. It feels like it’s been months since we properly spoke to each other and I don’t know what to do.” She laughs, dryly, “Poor Alba has been almost alone. And, annoying enough, she seems fine, but when she saw you today she was so happy. I know what it's like to grow up with neglective and distant parents, and I don’t want that for her.”

   “We’re not neglective and distant parents, Mila.” He tells her, softly, “We’re just busy with work. And she understands that.”

   Camila shakes her head, sadly. It’s the same thing Hazel had said but she’s still not sure. 

   “I’m sorry I’ve not been around.” He apologises, “And I’m sorry I didn’t answer your call.”

   “Why didn’t you?” She whispers. 

   “I don’t know.” He shrugs, looking down at his feet, “I just didn’t know what to say to you. It felt weird.”

   “What do you mean?” She frowns at him in confusion.

   “It’s been ages since I’ve seen you and I was scared of where we stood.” He admits. She doesn’t say anything for a second, a weird sensation filling her chest. 

   “And clearly, I had a good reason because you’re mad at me.” He adds.

   She sighs and looks around for a second.

   “Look, I’m sorry I shouted at you. I’ve just been so stressed out lately. There’s so much going on, and I’ve been… worried about you.” She confesses, her hands coming together to fiddle with her rings. 

   “You were worried about me?” He asks, a small smile appearing on his lips.

   She shrugs in response. 

   “I hadn’t seen you and you didn’t pick up. I thought something bad might have happened.” She looks down at her hands, refusing to meet eye contact. 

   His feet edge into her peripheral vision and she looks towards them. He places a hand on his shoulder and uses his other hand to lift her chin up towards him. 

   “I’m sorry.” He says, looking down at her in concern. She shrugs and looks down at his chest. 

   “It’s fine.” 

   “No, Mila, it’s not.” 

   She looks back at him, a bit confused. 

   “I should have answered, I should have tried harder to see you.” 

   She reaches up and places a hand on his shoulder.

   “No, Rex. You’re busy. I understand, I do. I’m being ridiculous.”

   “You’re not, though, Mila. It’s been nearly two years. I can’t shut you out, you’ll kill me.” They both chuckle quietly. 

   Her eyes scan all over his face and he stares back at her in return. 

   “Are we okay?” He asks, quietly.

   “Yeah.” She mutters, “Just don’t make me worry about you again. Or I will hunt you down.”

   He chuckles and she can’t help but grin in return.

   “Promise.” 

   She nods and rests her head against his chest. His arms wrap around her and Camila feels her body relax. That was enough yelling for today. They can discuss feelings another time. 

   But as she dismisses the further conversation, a sickening feeling fills her stomach, puzzling her.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Mila and Hunter... new friendship :)
bad batch banter. teasing about rexmila, to whose surprise.
THE TENSION THE ANGST I CANNOT WITH THESE TWO
she loves him. even if she won't admit it ITS SO OBVIOUS

 

ALSO ISACK PODIUM???? YESSSS
Lando out because of a oil leak. I feel so bad for him. BUT WTF ARE THEY COMPARING THIS TO BROCEDES I CANNOT BRO

Chapter 46: handsome

Summary:

the little family head back to naravi iv...

 

 

puellas ut ea in tempestate nati – girls like her were born in a storm

 

 

   Once again, the group stand in the courtyard in front of their ships. An exhausted Alba is nestled into Rex’s arms; a half asleep Omega is gripping onto Hunter’s side, the Sergeant wrapping a protective arm around her. The group are all saying goodbye to Camila, Alba and Rex, the clone Captain having decided to join his ex-girlfriend and their daughter back home. 

   “I’ll miss you.” Camila mutters, hugging Hazel tightly. Tears well in her eyes as she hears Hazel sniff. As they pull apart, she immediately notices the tears falling down Hazel’s cheeks. 

   “Oh, biche.” Camila says, quietly, wiping away her sister’s tears and trying not to cry herself. Kaya appears beside Hazel and pulls Camila into a brief side hug before wrapping her arms around her best friend. 

   “Take care of each other.” Camila says, holding onto them both. They hold on back, smiling back at the older woman.

   “You too, Mimi.” Kaya says. 

   Camila reluctantly steps away from them and hugs Astoria. 

   “Watch them.” She whispers into the medic’s ear, “Look after them.”

   “That’s my job.” Astoria replies and they pull apart. 

   Echo hugs her next and then Wrecker. Crosshair nods at her and Hunter reassuringly rubs her arm. She taps his arm in return, the two sharing a comforting smile. 

   Omega then steps up and wraps her arms, tightly, around Camila’s waist. Camila crouches in front of the teen and hugs her back. 

   “You look after yourself, okay sweetie?” She says, running a hand over Omega’s hair, “And keep them in line.” She winks at the younger girl, who grins. 

   Camila stands and the three of them step onto the ship, waving farewell. Camila points Rex in the direction of the rooms as she heads in the opposite direction and into the cockpit. She settles into the pilot seat and soon enough, the ship is up and away, leaving Pabu and heading into hyperspace. Just as she makes the jump, Rex wanders into the cockpit and sits in the co-pilot’s seat.

   He watches her as her hands move across the dash until eventually she settles in her seat. She picks up her datapad and begins scrolling through reports.

   “I can feel your eyes on me, Rex.” She murmurs, breaking the silence of the cockpit. He immediately looks down at his own datapad.

   “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” He replies.

   She chuckles and glances over at him. A comfortable silence embraces them as they both focus on their own work. Camila’s datapad dings and she lets out a groan, gaining his attention.

   “What is it?” He asks.

   “There’s a ball in two days.” She complains, looking over at him, “With everything going on, it completely slipped my mind.”

   He grimaces briefly and gives her a sympathetic look.

   “What kind of ball?” 

   “Masquerade.” She gives him a tired look and he smiles at her, clearly amused. 

   “Sounds fun.” He remarks.

   She rolls her eyes and turns back to her datapad. He watches her until she looks back at him again. When she doesn’t say anything, he turns away from his own device and to her. A thoughtful look has graced her beautiful features and he can’t help but smile, softly, at her.

   “What is it?” He asks.

   Camila studies him for a second, contemplating her question. She remembers very quickly what happened the last time she asked.

   “Will you come with me?” She asks, quietly. 

   His eyes widen and he stutters, unsure of what to say.

   “You don’t have to.” She says, quickly, “I don’t mind. I’ll go on my own. I shouldn’t have said anything. Forget I asked.”

   She turns back to her datapad, her cheeks pink from embarrassment. 

   “I’ll go with you.” He says, quietly. 

   She turns to him, surprised, and he nods, confirming his agreement. A happy smile appears on her lips and she’s quick to thank him.

   “It’s adults only.” She continues, looking down at the invite on her datapad, “One of the mamas at school is pregnant, so she and her sister have offered to hold a large sleepover for all the kids in Alba’s class. I think she’s going to that instead of being at the Palace, so it will be nice and quiet.”

   He nods, watching and listening intently. 

   “I already have a dress, thankfully, and your suit from the last one should still be in your wardrobe so the tailor can come by tomorrow and double check that for you.”

   She looks back up at him and grins, excitedly. 

   “Hopefully this will go much better than the last one.” She adds and he can’t help but chuckle. 

   While it was a while ago, the memory still felt fresh. The pain she felt, her hurt feelings. But it’s been a year. She hopes things have changed – they certainly look like they have. 

 

   The following afternoon, Rex is standing in the living room. Camila stands beside him, discussing outfit coordination with the tailor as he adjusts Rex’s suit. It still seems to fit him quite well from the last time but apparently some adjustments needed to be made to fit the party theme. When he found this out, he’d rolled his eyes before smiling sheepishly when he caught Camila’s playful glare. 

   “We will add some decoration to the blazer, I think.” The tailor says, before crouching down, “And we might change the seams.” He feels the bottom of the trouser legs, “Maybe redo them.” He nods up at them both and they smile in return.

   “Thank you.” Camila says, squeezing the tailor’s arm as he stands. The tailor gestures at Rex to go and change and the clone captain does so. 

   “Do you need any alterations for your dress, ma’am?” The tailor asks.

   “Oh no, I’m all good. Got it all fixed a week ago. Did you see the pictures?” She replies, shaking her head.

   “Yes. Very beautiful.” He smiles, “I have made sure your husband matches.”

   Her cheeks flare and she shakes her head.

   “Oh, we are not married.” She corrects.

   “My apologies, Senator.” He looks down, clearly embarrassed, and she chuckles.

   “It’s fine.” She reassures.

   “Well, he is a very handsome man, my lady. You are very lucky.” The tailor tells her and she blushes again.

   “Oh, thank you.” 

   Rex walks back in and hands the neatly folded suit to the tailor. He glances at her, frowning when she spots her blush and her attempts to avoid his eyes. They bid goodbye to the tailor before Narvor guides him out.

   “What’d he say?” Rex asks, eyeing her reddened cheeks.

   “Nothing.” She grins up at him, holding eye contact, “Just something about you.”

   He narrows his eyes but can’t help a smile creeping onto his face at the way she is looking at him. 

   “What about me?” He asks.

   She doesn’t say anything, instead choosing to shrug and walk away. He watches her leave, his eyes fixed on her as she shoots him a smirk before disappearing into the hallway. He shakes his head and turns away. That woman is driving him crazy. 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

quite a short chapter as it is a filler but AHHHHHH
Y'ALL ARE GOING TO ENJOY THE NEXT ONE.
MASQUERADE!!! I do love a ball.
'not married' BUT NOT NOT TOGETHER!!! MILA !!!

 

OSCAR WINSS!!!! YAYAYYYYY. And ISACK IN 3RD!!!! youngest french driver on the f1 podium :))) alex in 6th and ollie in 7th yayyyyy

Chapter 47: masquerade

Summary:

rex and mila attend the annual ball...

 

amorem mediocrem non desidero. in aliquo submergi desidero. – i do not desire a mediocre love. i desire to drown in someone.

 

   Her hands run over the dress, an awed smile gracing her lips as she admires it in the body length mirror.

   “You look beautiful, Mama.” Alba says from her position on the bed.

   “Thank you, baby.” Camila turns to her with a smile.

   “I wish I could come with you.” She groans as Camila puts on the jewellery that Inej hands her.

   “I know, Alla, but it’s adults only. Maybe next time.” She says.

   Alba groans again and flops, dramatically, onto the bed. Camila and Inej both chuckle at her reaction, the handmaiden coming around her mistress to tie on her masquerade mask.

   “I’m going to find Daddy.” Alba declares, sliding off the bed, “Maybe he will let me come with you.”

   She wiggles her eyebrows then dashes out the room. Camila rolls her eyes and shakes her head, fondly. 

   “You really do look beautiful, my lady.” Inej compliments.

   “Thank you, Inej.”

   The maid steps away and Camila turns to her. 

   “I’m sure you will have loads of fun.” Inej adds.

   Camila stares at her for a second then bites her lip.

   “Is it a bad idea to ask Rex to come with me?” She questions, quietly.

   “I think it’s a great idea. You two are wonderful together.” Inej replies, and Camila fights back a blush.

   “You really think so?” She whispers, turning back to the mirror.

   “He’s going to die when he sees you.” Inej adds, reassuringly rubbing her hands up and down Camila’s arms, “You look stunning. He’s going to fall in love with you even more.” 

   Camila scoffs, walking over to her vanity and picking up her lipstick and starting to apply it.

   “Rex is not in love with me.” She says.

   “Mhm. Are you sure about that?” Inej asks, raising an eyebrow. 

   “I think i’d know if he was in love with me, Inej.” Camila retorts, raising her eyebrows.

   “You are just as in love with him as he is with you.” Inej tells her, heading towards the door. 

   Camila puts her lipstick down and walks over to her, a disapproving look on her face.

   “You couldn’t be more wrong.” She says, shaking her head.

   Inej gives her a knowing and amused look. She then smiles, glancing down at the floor to hide her laugh.

   “Inej!” Camila blushes. Was she right?

   “Of course, my lady.” Inej stands straight, relaxing her features, “Are you ready?” 

   She glances at the maid, considering her words, but Inej opens the door before she has a chance and ushes her out. She attempts to clear her thoughts in order to get rid of her blush as they walk into the living room.

   Rex is talking to Hazeen, the two watching as Alba tries to persuade Tavin into doing something that Camila really doesn’t want to know what. Hazeen spots her first, a brotherly smile appearing on his lips, before he nudges Rex. 

   The clone captain turns around and his jaw drops. His eyes remain fixed on her, scanning her dress then meeting her eyes, as she walks over to him. Her blush is quick to return and she fiddles with her rings, smiling up at him.

   “What do you think?” She asks, holding her arms out.

   “You look amazing, Mila.” He manages, still in awe, “I mean, wow.”

   Her blush deepens and she looks down, flattered. 

   “Thanks.” She mutters. 

   “Are you leaving now?” Alba runs over to them and their attention is torn away from each other, thankful that their masks hide their flushed cheeks. 

   “Yes, Alla. Enjoy your sleepover, sweetie. Be good. And make sure you say thank you.” Camila says, crouching down in front of her daughter and kissing her cheek, careful not to get lipstick on her.

   Alba grins at her mother. Rex ruffles his daughter’s hair, carefully crouching to hug her, without messing up his suit. 

   “You be good, Adi’ka. We’ll see you tomorrow.” He says.

   “Bye Mama! Bye Daddy!” She calls as Rex guides Camila out of the room.

   “Bye Alla! Love you, sweetie.” Camila replies.

   “Bye, Adi’ka.”

   “Love you!” Alba calls before the door shuts. 

   Rex holds out his arm and smiles down at Camila.

   “Shall we, mesh’la?” He murmurs.

   She stares at his bent elbow then at his face, an adoring smile on her lips. Maybe Inej was right. Maybe she is falling for him again.

   “We shall, mon coeur.” 

   The ball is already in full swing when they arrive. Well dressed couples are scattered across the room, masked women being swung across the dance floor by masked men — no one a hundred percent sure who they are dancing with. Camila had purposefully taken the time to memorise Rex’s appearance in order to identify him, should they split up. That was the only reason why she’s been eyeing him the entire walk down here…

   Her grip on his arm tightens and he glances down at her.

   “Do you want a drink?” She asks. 

   He nods and follows her into the crowd. A waiter passes and they both swipe a drink from the tray. They make their way around the ballroom, trying to find a space to stand. Camila’s hand trails from Rex’s arm to his hand, his larger one enveloped her securely and a cute smile weaves its way onto her lips. 

   Soon, they’re successful, and the pair stop. Her hand doesn’t leave his as they both sip at their drinks, eyes darting around the ballroom. Camila looks between all the guests, smiling at familiar faces. Beside her, Rex’s soldier eye catches everything else. She squeezes his hand reassuringly and he smiles down at her. 

   “Mila, darling!” A voice calls and they both turn to see Orpheus weaving his way through the crowd, his latest date clutching his arm.

   “Orpheus! How are you?” Camila grins back at him as the couple stop beside them.

   “It’s been so long. How’s politics?” They pull each other in for air kisses, smiling at each other.

   “Busy. Very busy. How’s the news, amica?” She replies.

   “Same as always.”

   His date whispers something in his ear before disappearing. Orpheus eyes the blonde beside Camila then raises an eyebrow.

   “And who’s your company, darling?” He asks. 

   Rex glances between them, clearly unsure, although only Camila seems to be able to tell.

   “This is Rex.” Camila gestures at the clone, thankful for the mask over his face so he wasn’t recognised, “Rex, this is Orpheus. He is the reporter for the system’s news.”

   Rex holds out a hand and they greet each other, politely. 

   “Reporter? I’m in charge, Mila.” Orpheus laughs and she rolls her eyes.

   The shorter man eyes the clone before glancing at her. 

   “Can we talk?” He asks, quietly. 

   “I trust him with more than my life.” Camila replies, squeezing Rex’s hand. The captain smiles, gently, at her when she catches his eyes. Orpheus looks between them and smirks. 

   “I’m going to get another drink.” Rex whispers into her ear. She nods and hands him her glass. He squeezes her hand before letting go and disappearing into the crowd. 

   “Is he even more attractive under that mask?” Orpheus leans towards her, eyes fixed on where Rex just disappeared.

   Camila turns to him with a nudge.

   “Watch your hands, amica.” Camila smirks.

   Orpheus chuckles and she takes his arm as they slowly begin a turn around the room.

   “You attended the meeting?” He asks, lowly.

   “Of course.” She replies, watching the crowds.

   “So it’s true then? About the system?”

   Camila doesn’t reply and Orpheus takes it as a ‘yes’.

   “What if the Empire comes here?” He hisses, tugging them to a stop, “What if our lack of action causes them to dig their nails into our system?”

   “Orpheus.” She warns, quietly. 

   “Have you considered what will happen if we remain in the Senate?” He asks. 

   “Yes. This was our safest choice,” She tells him through gritted teeth, “To prevent invasion.”

   Orpheus stares at her and shakes his head.

   “You may have screwed us over even more.” He replies.

   “How would you know?” She grabs his upper arm, their faces close as they talk in hushed tones. To any outsider they look like two friends having quiet gossip.

   “If we leave,” She continues, “they could come for us. For all of us. I had to cover my tracks. I had to protect the secrets of this system. We can’t risk an inspection right now.”

   He stares at her, an unreadable look in his eyes.

   “This is best for Naravi. Trust me.”

   He doesn’t say anything and she leans away from him. With a tired exhale, she turns and walks away. 

   Camila greets people as she goes along; grabbing a drink from a waiter, she downs it in one go before returning it. Orpheus’ opinion on the neutrality situation plays on her mind. Was he right?

   “Looks like he beat me to it.” 

   She turns and is greeted by Rex. He smiles down at her, two drinks in hand. She happily takes hers back, sending him a thankful smile.

   She glances back at the waiter with a small laugh.

   “I needed that drink.” She replies.

   “I could tell. Who was that guy?” He asks, looking in the direction of where she’d left Orpheus. 

   “Orpheus Fendon. He’s in charge of the news, like I said.” She informs him, “He had some political questions – or opinions.”

   She rolls her eyes and takes a large sip of her drink. He looks down at her, a bit worried.

   “I’m fine. I’ll tell you about it tomorrow.” She adds.

   His eyes don’t leave her but when she sends him a pleading look, he reluctantly lets it go. 

   “There are so many people here.” He mutters, after a while, his eyes scanning the crowd, yet again.

   Camila hums in response. 

   “My aunt knows a lot of people.” She replies, smiling at another couple that passed them, briefly saying ‘hello’.

   “And so do you, it seems.” He points out. 

   She playfully glares at him and he grins. They fall into silence, watching the people around them. Camila’s eyes lock onto the dance floor and she smiles. 

   She’s always loved dancing. When she was a child, her father would dance their mother around their living room. She would always beg Burót to do it with her. Most of the time, her sister said yes, and the four of them would dance to awful music. Camila tried to do the same thing with Hazel but as the years went by their father grew distant. Her smile droops and her eyes move away from the dance floor. 

   She looks up at Rex and watches as he looks around. He hasn’t stopped doing it since they arrived. He needs a distraction. An idea pops into her head and she grins. 

   “Do you dance?” She asks, innocently. 

   “Not really.” He replies. 

   Her grin fades and she looks away. His following statement surprises her.

   “Ask me anyway.”

   Her eyes move to his and he watches her patiently. She hesitates for a second. 

   “Will you dance with me?” She asks, softly.

   “Always.” He replies.

   Her smile returns and he takes their drinks, placing it on the tray of a nearby waiter, before clasping her hand and guiding her onto the dance floor. He turns to her and his other hand goes to her waist. She steps close to him, one hand in his and the other around his shoulders. They move, slowly, around the floor, the warmth of each other's presence enough to make them blush. 

   “You didn’t have to come, y’know.” She says, after a while.

   “I wanted to.” He replies.

   “You didn’t do it because you felt bad about what we talked about on the beach?” She asks, raising a suspicious eyebrow. 

   “No.” He shakes his head, smiling, “I wanted to come with you. I wanted to see you in another one of your gorgeous ballgowns and I wanted to hold you and watch you smile. Just like you are now.”

   She looks down, her smile evident, and she tries to hide her blush from him. 

   “Really?”

   “Really.”

   She leans forward and places her head against his shoulder. 

   “Thank you, Rex.”

   They continue to dance, ignoring as people eye them. They ignore the whispers and rumours. People don’t know Rex. They don’t know the new person. Some recognise him from the Season Ball, but no one knows him. And she’s dancing with him. The Senator with a mystery man. Camila can almost see the headline but she’s quick to dismiss the thought. Tonight is about her and Rex and enjoying themselves. Tonight is about them. All the unsaid things, the tension, the feelings; their angry words, their arguments, their past. There’s so much between them and tonight it has settled. The angst has calmed.

   She looks up at him as they sway, resting her chin against his chest. He looks down at her, meeting her eyes with a loving smile. Her eyes flicker between his and his lips. He does the same and she smiles, gently. Camila leans up, brushing her lips against his. He leans further down, kissing her properly, and her smile widens. His lips are warm and comfort spreads through her body. The kiss is quiet and tender, full of love and feeling. He pulls away, slightly, but she leans up to kiss him again. The second one is shorter but when they pull apart, they feel just as giddy. Warmth spreads across their chests and Rex pulls her closer to him, smiles wide.

   And just like that, the world seems to fall away, letting them dance and hold each other close, each adoring the embrace of their past and present. 

 

   Camila wakes up with a faint groan. She rolls onto her back, her hand rubbing against her eyes. Memories from last night rush in quick and she smiles, euphoria filling her.

   “Good morning, my lady.” Inej walks into the room and over to the blinds, “How was the dance?”

   “It was great, thank you, Inej.” She smiles at her maid, a bit stiff, her hand clasped around the top of the covers beside her.

   “Good to hear that.” She cracks open the blind and walks back over to the door. 

   “Do you want breakfast here?” She asks, glancing back.

   “That’s alright, Inej. I’ll be there in about an hour.” Camila replies.

   Inej nods and smiles, before disappearing into the hall. Camila giggles, her hands flying to cover her mouth. 

   “Do you think she knew I was here?” Rex pulls the covers away from his face and turns to her. 

   Camila giggles again, sinking further into the sheets. Rex snorts and pulls her closer to him. 

   “You’re adorable.” He laughs and she shakes her head, burying it into his chest. 

   He wraps his arm around her waist and kisses the top of her head. 

   “Last night was fun.” He remarks.

   She shakes her head with a playful groan and he laughs again. 

 

   Unbeknownst to them, Inej enters the kitchen with a smirk.

   “You owe me twenty credits.” She points at Hazeen. He groans.

   “Really?” Narvor asks, sipping his caff and raising an eyebrow.

   “They’re like two teenagers.” Inej replies, leaning on the counter beside Hazeen. The Lieutenant smirks down at her and she grins.

   “So are you two.” Narvor mutters, turning away from them and rolling his eyes.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

AJHASJKAHSDJOHASODHAJLSLDHAJKDHKH

 

sorry. felt that was appropiate for this chapter.
THEY SLEPT TOGETHER :)))))

amica = darling

Chapter 48: family

Summary:

the following day...

Fabulam de spe tibi narrem: semper cum avibus incipit et desinit. – let me tell you a story about hope: it always starts and ends with birds

   Camila can’t wipe the smile from her face. Rex had left her bed a couple hours ago and she’d eaten breakfast in her office. She’s tried to focus on her work but her mind is elsewhere. Their closeness, their love, their feelings for each other. The yearning, the desire. She’s missed him so much. She thought she knew just how much but after feeling his body against hers once again she missed him even more. Last night was a whirlwind of passion and she was scared for it to end. But when she awoke and he was there smiling and laughing with her, that fear faded. Maybe this is it. Can she love him again? 

   Her smile droops slightly at the thought. She shakes her head and sits up, clearing her throat and bringing the papers closer to her. She pulls on a determined look and focuses her eyes on the list of numbers in front of her. She grimaces and grabs a pen. More numbers…

   She doesn’t know how much time flies by but she’s gone through around fifty files when her office door opens. Alba runs in with an excited laugh and Camila pushes her chair back.

   “Hey Mama.” Alba greets, running around the desk to her. 

   “Hey, baby. How was the sleepover?” Camila asks, helping the young girl onto her lap. 

   “It was so fun!” Alba grins, “We ate loads of food and we watched loads of movies.”

   Rex approaches and leans against the open doorway, watching the two with a loving smile. Camila doesn’t notice him, her attention solely on their daughter.

   Camila chuckles, brushing some hair out of Alba’s face. 

   “So, you had a good time?”

   Alba nods, excitedly, fiddling with the belt of Camila’s dress. She leans forward and rests her head against her mother’s chest. Camila places a kiss into Alba’s hair, smiling down at her. 

   “Did you sleep at all last night, Alla?” Camila asks, eyeing her with a teasing suspicion. 

   “Yeah…” Alba replies, sounding unconvinced, “I already told Daddy.” 

   Camila glances towards the door as Rex stands straighter. He smiles at her and her eyes don’t leave him as he walks towards them. 

   “You don’t sound very convinced, Adi’ka.” Rex says. 

   Alba’s head shoots up and she fixes on an innocent smile.

   “I’m not lying.” She says, innocently. 

   “Mhm.” Rex hums, raising an eyebrow and leaning against the desk beside them. 

   “Yeah, you look tired, baby.” Camila frowns down at her, running her fingers through her dirty blonde hair. 

   “I’m fine.” Alba smiles at her, but her eyes are heavy. 

   “You wanna take a nap?” Camila suggests, smirking slightly. 

   Alba doesn’t reply, but she moves her head up against her chest. The young girl wraps her legs around Mila’s waist and the Senator takes her movements as a yes. 

   “Okay.” Camila mutters. She stands, the young girl clinging to her like a koala bear. 

   “She lives up to Hazel’s nickname for her.” Rex points out. Camila releases a small laugh.

   “Now you know where she got it from.” Camila says, then walking over to the door. She stops at the entrance and looks at him over her shoulder. 

   “Are you joining us, mon coeur?”

   Rex’s honey eyes don’t leave her as he nods, following them out into the hall and towards Alba’s room. 

   Rex lays down first, Camila beside him with Alba curled up between them. The clone reaches an arm out, draping it over her waist and pressing a gentle kiss to Alba’s sleepy head. Camila leans her head against Alba’s, her eyes coming up to meet Rex’s. His honey brown eyes meet her chocolate brown ones and his arm leaves her waist to brush away a stray strand of hair. 

   “Merci, mon coeur.” She whispers, her words barely audible. 

   He smiles, recognising her thanks. It is one of the only words he knows in her language. 

   “You have to tell me what that means.” He says, quietly, careful not to disturb Alba, “‘mon couer’”

   She stifles a laugh, pushing her head into the pillows.

   “What?” He asks, confused. 

   “‘Mon couer’?” She raises an eyebrow, turning her head towards him, “It’s coeur.”

   “That’s what I said.” He frowns and she grins. 

   “Sure.” She teasingly rolls her eyes and he nudges her hip. 

   “Just tell me what it means.” He asks, smiling at her.

   She shakes her head, her teasing grin still gracing her lips. He grabs her waist and pulls her closer, almost trapping Alba between them. He gives her a loving smile and she replicates it. She tucks her head into the pillow, raising a hand to stroke Alba’s cheek. Rex’s eyes don’t leave her, admiring the moment. They lay there, just the three of them. No politics. No war. No Empire. Just them. A family. 

 

   “So what did that Orpheus guy want?” Rex looks at the woman beside him. She’s leaning against the back of the sofa, legs tucked under her and eyes glued to her datapad. 

   “Oh, just about how we’re no longer going neutral.” She replies, looking up.

   “Really? I thought you were keen on that.” He frowns.

   “Yeah, we were.” She nods, honestly, “Then I received a transmission from Mas Amedda reminding me about Duchess Satine and hinting at their suspicions towards me.”

   He grimaces.

   “Yeah.” She raises her eyebrows, running her hand across her forehead, “So I changed my mind and started to look at it a different way. Turns out, Clemac was right. If we leave, we could get invaded and this system has enough secrets as it is.”

   He frowns, smirking teasingly. 

   “What kind of secrets?” He asks.

   She gives him a playful look and nudges him with her leg. 

   “They’re secrets for a reason, amata.” She shakes her head.

   He raises an eyebrow.

   “That’s a new one.” He says, making her smirk, “You gonna tell me what it means?”

   She only shakes her head, teasingly, looking back at her datapad. 

   He smiles at her. Sometime later, she places her datapad down and gets to her feet. 

   “Where are you going?” He asks, looking up at her. 

   “Bed, probably.” She replies, shrugging. 

   He doesn’t say anything for a second. 

   “Are we going to talk about it?” He asks.

   She rolls her eyes and turns to him, placing her hands on her hips.

   “Why must we always talk about it?” She questions.

   “What else do you suggest we do?” He counters. 

   Her hands drop her hips and she smirks slightly. 

   “How about you just sit there and shut up?” She sasses.

   He puts his tablet aside and raises his eyebrows. 

   “Make me.” He challenges, leaning against the back of the sofa. 

   “Really?” She raises an eyebrow, crossing her arms. 

   “If you’re going to talk dirty to me, at least go through with it, cyar’ika.” He says, teasing.

   She exhales, shaking her head and looking away from him. He stands and approaches her, quickly closing the small distance. 

   “Don’t tell me you’ve got all shy.” He raises her chin with his finger, smirking down at her. 

   She looks up at him through her lashes and brings her hand up. Her fingers trail over his chest and up to his neck and she watches his jaw tighten. 

   “You really wanna do this now?” She asks, licking her lips.

   “Are you challenging me, mesh’la?” He brings his face down so there’s less than an inch between them. 

   She smirks and he shakes his head. 

   “Well, you haven’t changed.” 

   “You’re only just realising.” She counters, “Did you pay attention at all last night?” 

   He chuckles, darkly, and her legs clench. It’s taking a lot of self-control for her not to give in first. 

   “How good is your memory, Mila?” He asks.

   She grins. 

   “Kiss me and find out.” She challenges, desire seeping into her eyes despite her teasing expression. 

   He shakes his head and leans back, his hands gripping her waist. 

   “So, we’re doing this now?” He asks. 

   She shrugs. It is late, Alba’s been in bed for a few hours and the lights have dimmed with the moon.

   “If you want.” 

   He stares at her for a few seconds, before pushing her back and kissing her deeply. She gasps, her hands coming up to go around his neck as his wrap around her waist. He turns them and pulls them down onto the opposite couch, letting her straddle him, their lips not leaving the others. The idea of even thinking about talking about it, going completely out of the window as they kiss. It has been nearly six years since they did this sort of thing and after finally sleeping together the previous night, it’s been the one thing on both of their minds since. They can’t keep their hands off each other. 

   “We should go into the bedroom.” Rex says between kisses, his voice dark. 

   “So, we’re doing this again?” She pulls away slightly and smirks. 

   “Don’t be a tease, Camila.” He criticises, staring at her lustfully. Her legs clench around him at the mention of her full name; the way he said it gave her goosebumps. 

   She grins and kisses him again. His hands snake under her thighs and he stands, holding her against him. Their lips only part for short breaths as he stumbles his way to the bedroom. Her’s is the closest and he walks in, putting her on the bed and breaking them apart. She shuffles back on the bed, propped up on her elbows and smirking up at him. He stands at the end, his eyes not leaving her. 

   “Come on then, Captain.” She urges, raising an eyebrow. He chuckles, darkly, and crawls over her body. His face hovers over her and he takes her lips in his in a long, passionate kiss.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

i have mixed feelings about this chapter but I love them together!!!! <333
also I don't write smut so please don't come for me!!! i'm not so good at this sort of thing.

amata = beloved

Chapter 49: feelings

Summary:

mila breaks the news to her sister...

 

 

Nulla sepulcra corpus meum detinere potest. Domum ad eam repam. – no grave can hold my body down. i’ll crawl home to her.

   “You slept together!”

   Camila flinches at the loudness of her sister’s voice. 

   “Kaya! Tori! Get in here. Now!” Hazel calls out, making Camila groan. 

   “Hazel, come on.” She rolls her eyes but Hazel continues to grin. 

   Kaya and Astoria appear in the frame, their faces a mix of worry and confusion. 

   “What? What is it?”

   “Who died?”

   “Why do you always assume someone has died?” Astoria turns to Kaya with a frown. 

   “Do you live in this galaxy?” Kaya sasses. 

   Camila rolls her eyes again and Hazel raises her hands to interrupt them. 

   “Guess what?” She grins up at them, “Rex and Mila slept together. Twice!”

   “What?!”

   “Holy shit!”

   Camila groans and drops her head into her hands. 

   “I shouldn’t have said anything.” She mumbles. 

   “Tell. Us. Everything!” The girls sit either side of Hazel, all of them staring at her intently. 

   “It’s none of your business.” She shakes her head, “I was just telling Hazel.”

   Astoria rolls her eyes, “Oh, please. You guys have been eye-fucking each other for weeks. You’re worse than Kaya and Echo!”

   “Hey!”

   “How did this happen?” Astoria throws up her hands, grinning profusely. 

   Camila sighs and shakes her head but she can’t help the smile on her face just thinking about it. 

   “We went to a ball. And we kissed.” She starts, making them squeal, “And then when we made it back to the apartment, we kinda just started kissing again and it went from there.”

   She looks down, blushing and grinning. 

   “Aww.” The three coo.

   “And the second time?” Kaya asks. 

   “We were just talking the next day.” She rolls her eyes, “And he wanted to talk about the previous night but I refused. I believe my exact words were ‘why don’t you just sit there and shut up?’” 

   The three girls squeal and grin. 

   “And then it was a bit of… dirty talk slash flirting.” She admits, rubbing her neck, bashfully, “And then we slept together again.”

   “Oh my god! Oh my god! Oh my god!” 

   “It’s not that big a deal.” Camila protests. 

   They scowl at her. 

   “Are you kidding?” Astoria raises an eyebrow. 

   “It’s been six years, Mimi.” Kaya states, crossing her arms. 

   “I know.” 

   “Then it is a big deal.” Hazel points out, “You two have been reunited for two years and it’s taking you this long to sleep together.”

   “Wait.” Astoria holds up a hand as Camila tries - and fails - to hide her blush, “Does this mean you two are back together?”

   Kaya and Hazel lean forward, eagerly. Camila shrugs.

   “I don’t know. We didn’t actually get around to talking about it.” She sighs and leans back in her chair, “But… I hope so.”

   They all produce matching grins, gripping each other's hands. 

   “You love him.” Hazel reveals. 

   “I… I don’t know.” 

   “Oh, you so do!” Astoria shakes her head. 

   Camila shakes her own head, staring down at her lap. The three girls laugh loudly. 

   “You can’t hide your feelings, Mimi. It’s so obvious!” Kaya points out. 

   “I don’t know if I love him.” Camila says, firmly, “I wish I knew, I really do. But if I did love him and something happens…” She rubs her nose, “I just don’t want to get hurt again.” She adds, quietly. 

   They nod in understanding. 

   “You won’t get hurt again, Mi.” Hazel tells her, softly, “He loves you, Mila. He does! He always has and he always will.”

   “It’s true, Mila.” Astoria reassures, “We’ve seen it. All of us. And Echo says his entire face lights up when he talks about you and Alba. He’s so in love with you.”

   “I highly doubt he’s going to want to let you go again.” Kaya adds, nodding in agreement with her friends. 

   “You really think so?” Camila asks, timidly. Admitting her fears to the girls seems to have lifted a weight from her chest. She wishes she can love him again and she knows a part of already does, but her fear of getting hurt again has grabbed that emotion and buried it very, very deep inside herself. 

   “We know so.” Hazel nods, “Trust us.”

   “Yeah. And if he does hurt you again, I’ll beat his ass.” Kaya threatens.

   “I can’t tell if you’re joking.” Camila eyes the hunter, who shrugs, nonchalantly. 

   “It’s going to be fine, Mila.” Astoria says, smiling softly. 

   Camila nods. 

   “Thanks, girls.”

   “Always.” Hazel smiles. 

   They talk for a few more minutes and then the call ends. Camila leans back in her chair and stares at where the hologram used to be. She can love him. Can’t she?

   With a sigh and a shake of her head, she gets to her feet and leaves her office. Rex had left earlier that morning, the two unable to actually talk about what happened. Her heart already aches, wishing for him to come back. It’s as if all her old feelings have returned but ten times as strong. But maybe that’s not a bad thing… 

   Camila sinks onto the sofa, a small smile slipping onto her lips. Maybe she does love him after all. 

 

   Rex stares at the assassin with a frown, his arms crossed over his chest plate. Yet another one has been sent after someone. This time, however, they caught a live one. 

   “What are we going to do with him?” Howzer asks from his stance beside him. 

   “Find out what he knows.” Rex replies.

   “Are you going to call Camila?” Gregor asks, walking over to him, “She might know something.”

   Howzer raises an eyebrow, “Why would the Senator know something?” 

   Gregor shrugs.

   “She has contacts.”

   “He makes a good point.” Rex says, “I’ll call her now.”

   Gregor grins and watches as the clone captain walks away. Howzer crosses his arms and looks over at his brother.

   “What are you smirking at?” He asks. 

   “Have you noticed how the Captain has been more relaxed and happier lately?” Gregor suggests, leaning back on the wall of the common area. 

   “What do you mean?” Howzer questions, clearly confused.

   “You’ve not noticed?” Gregor stares at him, incredulously, “He smiles more, he seems more accepting…” He trails off, looking at Howzer expectantly. 

   Howzer’s eyes widen. 

   “What are you suggesting?” He grimaces, trying to hide a suspecting smile. Gregor straight up grins and leans forward.

   “He had sex.” Gregor snorts.

   “Him and Senator Ri’vane?” Howzer can’t stop the grin appearing on his lips as he looks back in the direction Rex had left in. 

   Gregor nods and barks out a laugh. 

   “I can’t believe it.” Howzer mutters, releasing a noise of surprise that sounds close to a laugh. 

   “I can’t believe he finally picked up the confidence to actually kiss her.” Gregor says. 

   “It’s taken them long enough.” Howzer points out.

   “Tell me about it.” Gregor shakes his head, “I was getting worried after she called me a week ago.”

   “This is hilarious.” Howzer releases a laugh. 

   “We are so using this against him.” Gregor says, heading towards the cockpit. Howzer follows, chuckling.

   “Oh, a hundred percent.”

 

   The harsh vibrations of her communication device draw her attention away from the Senate meeting in front of her. She’s been watching the live playings of the Senate session all day, the holo display holding her brain focus. She turns away from it now to pick up her comm. 

   “Senator Ri’vane.” She greets, returning her eyes to the holo screen in front of her. 

   “Mila?”

   “Rex?” She looks down at the device, confused but also happy, “What is it?”

   “Why do you assume I want something?” His voice is teasing, making her roll her eyes.

   “I saw you two days ago.” She says.

   “Too long if you ask me.” 

   A small smile appears on her lips at his flirting. A part of her hates to admit how much she’s missed it but she knows it’s true. She can’t keep lying to herself about it. 

   “So, I have a question…” Rex starts.

   Camila chuckles to herself, “You do need something, then?”

   He doesn’t reply straight away and she laughs again. 

   “What is it, Rex?” She asks, muting the Senate session and shifting in her office chair. 

   “You know that assassin we caught on Coruscant? The one with no number and no identity.” He says. 

   “Yeah, I remember.” She frowns. 

   “We caught another. He came after us at a meeting on Pandora.” Rex informs her, “He’s still alive but he refuses to talk.”

   Camila sinks into her chair, her brow creasing. 

   “Is there any way you can find anything out or know anybody who can?” He asks. 

   She releases a sigh, rubbing a hand against her forehead. She ponders his question for a few seconds. Her previous contacts started declining her calls since the end of the war. The Empire has installed fear in everyone. Taelia was her last contact in the Empire, but even that seems like a lost cause at this point. 

   Her thoughts then drift towards another contact. The idea is risky but may very well be her final resort. Jayana was already trying to get them coordinates to Mount Tantiss and Camila still doesn’t know if she can trust the former Jedi. Not after everything she’s done. 

   “I can try but no guarantees.” The teasing and amusement from the start of their conversation has since dissipated. 

   Rex makes a noise of understanding and the two fall into silence. 

   “Are you okay?” Camila’s soft voice breaks the silence. 

   “I don’t know.” He replies, “Maybe once all of this is over but I think we both know that it won’t be anytime soon.”

   “Yeah. I know.” Camila’s fingers trace the stone patterns on her desk, “But we’re in this together, right?”

   “Of course.” He says and she nods, even though he can’t see her. 

 

 

 

Notes:

communicate! CMON... (i say like i didn't write it, whoops)
they're still cute tho
also the fact that all the bad batch girls just HAD to know is hilarious to me
GREGOR AND HOWZER :)))

 

It is safe to say that race broke me. i'm so happy for osc and isack, and also ollie and alex. but the two ferraries dnf and LANDO dnf. I cannot. this is hard enough as it is bro.

Chapter 50: anxiety

Summary:

mila visits the clone rebel base...

 

viro tam apto ad necem, oculi eius mire molliores erant – for a man so adapt at killing, his eyes were remarkably soft

 

   “You want me to come to your base?” She raises an eyebrow at the clone Captain, the papers she was organising motionless in her hands. 

   “I might need a hand.” He shrugs, a small smile on his face, “And if you hear anything we’d be right there to do something about it.” 

   “Are you sure me being there is a good idea?” She places the neatend papers down on the table, “You always tell me not to get involved.” 

   She crosses her arms over her chest, one of her hands coming up to play with her necklace. 

   “What if I just want to see you?” He asks, softly. 

   Her eyes dart to him, his hologram figure flickering in the silence. They still haven’t talked about the ball and the day after. There’s so much stuff completely unsaid between them. Part of her was slightly worried that hooking up would destroy whatever has been going on between them. But he’s called her multiple times in the last couple days and she can sense the shift in their relationship. Maybe he can too…

   “Really?” She looks at him, hesitant. 

   “Yeah.” He shrugs, glancing away from her. Her lips twist into a shy smile and she blushes. 

   He wants to see her. 

   “Send me the coordinates then.” She flashes him a smile and he copies her. 

   “I’ll see you later?” He asks, glancing to the side. 

   She nods and hangs up the call. Almost immediately after his hologram vanishes, a message of coordinates flash across the screen of her holopad. She stares at it for a few seconds. Is it really a good idea to go and see him? What if the Empire turns up in search of their asset? Her fingers drum against the desk as she ponders over the questions in her mind. He made a good point though. It would be easier if she was with them if she found anything out. 

   And maybe she missed him too…

 

   The stars streak past the cockpit as she leans back in her chair. She’d said a short goodbye to her daughter, promising to return in a couple days. Alba had been clearly upset about her mother leaving, especially since Rex had only left a few days ago. Camila had purposely not told Alba she is going to see Rex because the girl’s begging to join her would have only increased. 

   A worried expression has become a permanent resident on the Senator’s face by now and her eyes have been locked, unwavering, on the signs of hyperspace through the viewport. 

   She’d sent messages to both Taelia and Jayana, and she even sent one to Wolffe’s old channel. Just in case. That was two days ago and yet none of them have replied. In her head, she’s been telling herself not to give up hope on the fact that the three people in the Empire she thinks she can trust have not completely shut her off, though her trust in Jayana is miniscule. There’s so much at stake and yet she has little hope to succeed. 

   Naravi’s rebellion is small and fractured, falling apart as more people submit to the Empire’s iron grip. Any hope of opposition against the Emperor in the Senate has been dwindling and she, Mon and Bail have been growing more anxious by the minute. 

   The Jedi are dead. The Republic is gone. The Empire reigns over the galaxy. And there is almost nothing any of them can do. That realisation haunts her, appears in her nightmares and slowly crushes her dreams. Are they really that in over their heads?

   A loud sigh pulls her out of her thoughts and she blinks. Hazeen walks into the cockpit and drops into the copilot seat. He removes his guard's hat and runs a hand through his brown curls. 

   Camila turns her chair away from him, slightly, and looks down at the navigation screen beside her. 

   “We’re almost there.” She tells him and he nods. 

   Her hands curl around the flight wheel and she adjusts one of the knobs on the dashboard.

   “Are you alright, Senator?” 

   She looks over at him, the expression of concern evident on his face. 

   “I will be.” She smiles at him and he nods in understanding. 

   “I will not leave your side, m’lady.” He grins at her. Her smile widens and she turns away from him, grateful for his words. She’s anxious enough as it is. 

   The Starbird shudders when it lands but neither moves for a second. Instead, Camila releases a long, steady breath, twisting her hands and fiddling with her rings. 

   “We should get going, my lady.” Hazeen says, quietly. 

   She nods and eventually stands to her feet. Something in her stomach twitches. Anxiety. She steps ahead of him and the two exit the ship. Her anxious expression fades and Hazeen notices her physically relax when she spots the man who awaits them. 

   “Mila.” He greets them with a smile, sharing a nod in greeting with Hazeen. 

   “Rex.” Camila breathes, a genuine smile appearing on her face. Rex pulls her in for a hug when she joins him and Hazeen stands back, allowing them a moment. 

   “How are you?” He whispers into her hair. 

   “I’ve been better.” She murmurs, then pulls away from his armoured chest. His eyes flicker over her face, lingering on her lips for a second longer. 

   She pulls away properly, her smile still faintly evident, and they both turn in the direction of the building behind them. 

   “Can I see this assassin?” She asks as they begin to walk, Hazeen falling in step beside her. 

   “I don’t know if that’s the best idea, mesh’la.” Rex replies and she rolls her eyes. 

   “Y’know,” Hazeen starts, “this is the last place I thought you would be, Captain.”

   “That makes it the best.” Rex grins at him and the Lieutenant chuckles. 

   The three walk into the dark building and head towards the command table in the centre. 

   “Looks like you could do with some more lights, Rex.” Camila comments, an unimpressed look on her face. 

   “It’s a base, Mila, not a house.” Rex chuckles. 

   “No, but I can barely see a thing.” She says, her point being proven when she stumbles a second later. His hand flies out to steady her and she, tightly, grips his arm. He looks down and smiles sheepishly when he sees her stern ‘see-what-i-mean’ look. 

   “I’ll look into it.” He says, making her nod and Hazeen stifle a snort. 

   Her hand doesn’t leave his arm as they start to walk again. 

   “Senator!” Howzer approaches them with a small smile. 

   “Captain Howzer, how are you?” She smiles up at him.

   “Been better.” He shrugs, “This assassin won’t break at all.”

   Camila spares Rex a glance, his previous easy smile disappearing under a worried expression. She returns her gaze to Howzer and spots his raised eyebrow as he spots her hand on Rex’s arm. He meets her eyes and wiggles his eyebrows. Camila rolls her eyes at him and drops Rex’s arm, not noticing him frown at the action. 

   “Captain.” Another clone walks towards them, something clasped in his hand. 

   “Fireball.” Rex greets. 

   Fireball glances at Camila and his brow furrows in confusion. 

   “Fireball, meet Senator Ri’vane.” Rex introduces, “Mila, this is Fireball.”

   She smiles at the clone and he hesitantly returns it, glancing over at Rex. 

   “We found a data puck on the assassin, Fireball here has been looking into it for us.” Howzer informs Camila, before turning to Fireball, “Senator Ri’vane is a well trusted ally of ours.”

   Fireball nods before presenting the puck. 

   “The data puck was a target register.” He informs them. 

   “Who was he after?” Rex asks. 

   “Senator Singh.” He replies, “But that wasn’t the only person on his list.”

   He activates the puck and Camila draws in a sharp breath. A hologram of Omega on Tantiss appears. 

   “They’re still after her?” She asks, her voice soft and almost indistinguishable. 

   Rex looks away from the holo for a second. 

   “Contact Echo and Hunter.” He orders Fireball, “We need to let them know.”

   Fireball nods, deactivating the holo, and walking away. Camila raises a hand to rub against her forehead, causing Hazeen to place a reassuring hand on her shoulder. 

   “We should bring them here.” Howzer says, stepping forward. 

   “No, no.” Rex shakes his head, “I don’t want to involve them in this.”

   “It’s too late for that.” Howzer replies, “Crosshair is with them. This is our chance to question him.”

   Camila raises an eyebrow, crossing her arms over her chest. 

   “Echo’s already done that.” She says, “And we’ve seen him. He doesn’t know where Tantiss is.”

   “I’m sure he knows more than he’s saying.” He counters, “If you wanna locate Tantiss, then we need him to talk.”

   “You don’t know him as well as they do. Maker, Rex and I know him better than you.” She retorts, “He doesn’t know where it is.”

   “We’ll see.” Howzer replies and walks away.

   Camila shakes her head, visibly annoyed at the clone. 

   “Is he always like this?” She turns to Rex.

   “Him and Crosshair… have a bit of a history.” Rex reveals, “Crosshair had his squad imprisoned after they turned on the Empire.”

   “Crosshair was brainwashed.” 

   “And Howzer knows how to hold a grudge.” He replies, “He doesn’t believe that Crosshair betrayed the Empire.”

   Camila hums.

   “I do think we should bring the Batch here.” Hazeen intervenes, “He had a point about that.”

   “Yeah, you’re right.” Rex says and then sighs, “I’ll tell Echo.”

   He steps away, about to head in the same direction Fireball had left in before he turns around to them.

   “Are you going to be alright for a few minutes?” He asks. 

   “Yeah.” She nods, “I’ll just connect my emergency channel. Try and see if my contacts have replied.”

   He nods, sparing them a smile, before reluctantly walking away. She watches him leave, smiling when he glances back at them. 

   “Are you sure you haven’t fallen in love with him?” Hazeen asks, breaking her out of her thoughts. She spins around to see him smirking at her with his arms crossed.

   “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She replies, “What has Inej been saying?”

   “She speaks a lot of truths. And you and I both know I'm very observant.” 

   “And optimistic. So also delusional.” She snaps but his grin doesn’t disappear. 

   She looks back at Rex then to Hazeen.

   “Oh, shut up.” She rolls her eyes and he laughs.

   She doesn’t deny his comment as they walk over to the command table. 

 

 

 

Notes:

last update for today!!!
mila's back in the season for these couple episodes.
also, if you didn't know better mila and hazeen could be siblings, esp with the way they interact and both have brown curls. oh and mila really slips into the sister-in-law role, esp with howzer, echo and gregor
hope you enjoyed the new chaps (all 10 of them). forgive me for the running f1 commentary

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 3 of souls of the stars