#captain rex x oc

Nurse of the 501st— 79’s

Pairing: Captain Rex x FemaleNurse!Reader (ft. the 501st)
Word Count: 4.8k
T/W: fluffffyyyy ☁️
A/N: Yikes, I didn’t mean to disappear for so long, sorry this round of finals really wore me out. Anyway, I am so excited about the next part! (and other upcoming fics!!)

**this one’s kind of a filler not going to lie but I couldn’t get it out of my head.

• Returning to Coruscant, some of the 501st boys offer to take you to a clone bar for the first time. Padmé helps you get the perfect outfit for the occasion and when Rex finds out he gets a little jealous + worried with how many other clones you’ll meet, he finds himself somewhere he didn’t expect to be again.

Preface/Injured/79’s/Orphanage
↳m a i n m a s t e r l i s t

As the shuttle landed, you gripped your fingers a little tighter through the hooks hanging from the ceiling of the transport. Still surrounded by the 501st, General Skywalker standing directly in front of you with his ever-loyal padawan at his side, you were just beginning to feel a part of the squad, but now you doubted that. The transport was taking you from the command ship’s bay to a more central landing platform on Coruscant; the general and Rex were meeting with the Senators for a brief report, and the rest of you were given a free day, no orders. That was the exact reason you were busy lost in thought as to what do to with your time off. You figured the rest of the squad would already have plans, knowing each other so well, meanwhile, you hardly knew what to do except maybe visit the Jedi temple to try and get a meeting with Master Rig Nema, but then again a meeting would be harder to come by now that you weren’t on staff, you were a part of the army. 

Biting at the inside of your lip, your brows furrowed, all alone on Coruscant didn’t sound like too much fun, you’d always kept close to Master Nema and the Temple, and you were hoping to stay close to your team, but a day off scared you more than your first mission did, so many memories could be made and you had no one to share them with. While lost in your thoughts, you hardly realised that you had slowly begun to lean gently against the clone next to you for support, free hand at your side casually and comfortably grazing against theirs every so often with the movement of the transport; it was methodic and soothing.

“You alright?” Rex suddenly asked in a soft voice, not wanting to draw attention, but still enough to snap you out of your daze.

“Hmm? Wh-” you looked to your shoulder, which was pressed against his arm; like a shock wave you realised your hand had been touching his and straightened yourself up, “oh- um, yeah, I’m fine, just fine. Sorry…”

“S’alright,” you swore you almost heard him give a chuckle underneath his helmet, but you didn’t dare look to meet his gaze, it would turn you redder than a Reek with a sunburn. Instead, you kept your head low and stared at the back of the General.

Luckily, the transport was soon to land, and you managed to avoid any further dazing. In fact, now your attention was sharper than ever, you held your breath every time Rex budged, wondering if you’d upset him by getting a little too close on accident. Maybe he was just trying to be nice, maybe he was giving you a warning, so many maybes ran through your head. But in the end, you told yourself not to project your feelings on it, he probably didn’t even care, it probably meant nothing, but your moment alone in the medical bay still played at the back of your mind… ‘no, you’re just reading into it’ you thought to yourself, physically shaking yourself out of your thoughts.

As the transport landed and the doors opened, you waited for the General and his Padawan to exit first, as they were the ones expected. When Rex began to take a step forward, you felt the back of his hand brush against yours; Rex was forced to linger a little while he waited for the General to take a few more steps forward and in the meantime, Rex’s fingertips twitched to touch yours. Before you had the chance to respond he was already walking off the transport alongside Skywalker towards the Senators.

Observing everyone else around you starting to depart, you joined in, tugging your bag a little tighter over your shoulder. Stepping off the transport, you took in a deep breath, gazing at the skyline of Coruscant, of course, there was one in every direction, but you found the one you liked most and took it in. Over your shoulder, you hear Senator Amidala greet your leaders. She was so graceful, her dress elegant, and her hair tied beautifully up in a way you were certain you could never learn. Ahsoka looked a little bored while her Master did most of the talking, one hand was crossed behind her back to hold her opposite elbow; when she looked to you she managed a subtle wave, well she thought it was subtle, but you had to laugh at the big gesture. Waving back with a smile, your attention was suddenly turned in a different direction by another familiar voice.

“Sooo, got any plans for your first big night off?” Fives asked, hoisting his satchel bag over his head, settling it across his body while making his way over to you, Echo, as ever, at his side. 

“Me? Oh, probably not,” you shrugged looking between them, “I don’t know many people really, I’ve never really explored Courescant, and the Jedi temple isn’t open to just anyone so…,” you tapped your fingers along your satchel, feeling a little pathetic, “maybe I’ll visit the library before heading back to the barracks.”

“That actually sounds like a-” Echo began with an encouraging smile, but was cut off.

“Boring night, for a lady such as yourself,” Fives interjected, receiving an eye roll from Echo, “why don’t you come with us? We’d love to have another.”

“Oh, um, where are you guys going?” you asked shyly, glancing to Echo and then Fives.

“Yes,Fives, where exactly are we going?” Echo subtly positioned himself alongside you, crossing his arms over his chest, as if he was in the same boat of curiosity because he was.

“Where else?” Fives raised an eyebrow, spreading his arms.

“79’s? Of course,” Kix joined the conversation, standing next to you and Fives.

“What- what’s 79’s?” you asked, beginning to get a little more interested. 

“It’s a Clone Bar,” Fives began with enthusiasm. 

As Fives explained where and what 79’s was, Rex couldn’t help but draw his attention over to the crowd of clones beginning to form around you. He heard “79’s” and tried not to get too distracted with the thought of you there with every single one of his troops fawning over you, not to mention getting to see you a little less professionally. And where would he be? Probably-

“Captain?” Anakin’s voice broke into Rex’s thoughts.

Snapping to attention, Rex returned to the conversation, “Y-yes, sir?”

Padmé exchanged a look over at you, she’d noticed how Rex’s gaze often lingered in your direction. She was pretty good at picking up hints, she wondered if either of you had noticed the other’s attempts at intimacy.

“I was just telling Senator Amidala here about your injury,” Anakin gestured toward Rex’s side.

“Oh, ah, yes, nothing too serious ma’am, all in a day’s work,” Rex nodded, voice strong and confident once again.

“I’m so very glad to hear that Captain,” Padmé smiled, but opted to divert the conversation another way, “I hear you’ve acquired a new nurse in the 501st, does she meet your expectations, Captain?”

Anakin perked an eyebrow out of confusion at her, but with her eyes, Padmé gave a ‘just go with it’glare. 

“Ah…,” Rex paused, uncertain of the working, “yes, she is one of the most talented individuals I’ve had the pleasure- privilege to work with, ma’am.”

“Hmm, I’d like to meet her, if you don’t mind,” Padmé smiled, clasping her hands in front of her, which was a signature sign that the request wasn’t up for debate, “after all, I feel so bad knowing all of you and excluding her, would you mind bringing her over, Captain?”

“Of course, ma’am,” Rex complied, swallowing harshly as he started in your direction. 

You were engrossed with stories from the 501st and their experiences at this clone bar. Some were so animated about it, that you had to lift your hand to cover your mouth, covering up the smile accompanying your laugh. When Rex gently approached you, he leaned down to your height to explain how Senator Amidala wanted to speak with you. You looked over your shoulder, suddenly Senator Amidala was intimidating. You leaned in closer to ask Rex some questions first, frantically adjusting your uniform.

“They make an awfully cute couple,” Padmé leaned over to Anakin, speaking in a whisper.

“You read my mind,” Anakin smirked, crossing his arms, “I wonder-”

“If they know it yet?” Padmé finished his sentence, looking at him with a smile, “me too.”

Approaching the General and the Senator, you felt your stomach tighten, the only thing that put you at relative ease was Rex standing beside you, hands clasped behind his back, shoulders tall and gaze forward, as far as you could tell with the helmet on at least. When Rex stopped, you accidentally took another step forward and had to quickly step back to match where he was. Rex held back a chuckle, it was endearing to see you still learning the structure of a well-knit team, even in the simple things, you had such individuality, something he very much admired.

“Hello, I’m Padmè Amidala,” Padmè started the conversation, sensing how nervous you were. Still, after a few formality questions and introductions, she wanted to put you at ease, and let you know that she was an ally in more than just politics, “so, I’m told you trained at the Jedi Temple, you must be very familiar with Coruscant then.”

“I did, but for medical training only,” you admitted, never wanting to give the impression that you were on par with a Jedi, it stung, but you knew it was the right thing to do, Rex’s helmet barely tilted your direction when you paused as if to check on you, “but- but I don’t actually know Coruscant very well, ma’am,” you continued, “although I believe I’m about to be introduced to a clone bar.”

Rex sighed, slowly shaking his head, Anakin chuckled, putting a hand subtly to his mouth, and Padmé smiled brightly, beyond happy that you were getting some attention.

“How wonderful, I’m sure it’ll be a good chance to bond with your squad,” Padmé kept her tone professional, and avoided the urge to elbow Anakin, she found it precious that the clones were taking a liking to you, and she didn’t mind playing as Rex’s wing woman, “and what will you be wearing?”

Padmé’s question brought a sudden heat to your face, you felt it sizzling up your neck, “ah, um, my- my uniform?” Your answer came out more as a question than a confident answer.

“Oh no, no, surely we can find you something a little less professional for a night out,” Padmé’s expression became a glowing smile, “you should come with me, I’m sure I have something more evening appropriate we can tailor to you.”

“Oh- I don’t know, I’m sure this is-” You tried to make an excuse, wondering what Rex was thinking of all this; Anakin was happy that Padmé was getting along with you and it showed by the half-smile across his face when Padmé spoke, then again he was always happy when he was around Padmé. As for Rex, however, the helmet hid everything; you were pretty good at reading his body language, but he was staying still, giving you nothing to go off of.

“You should see her closet,” Ahsoka joined in, gesturing, “it’s huge, and she has so many beautiful garments. I’m sure you’d look lovely in any of them, besides it’ll be more fun to dress up.”

“Well, I’m not-”

“Ahsoka’s right,” Anakin finally commented, “you should go with Padmé, find something nice, as your General I insist; I’ll talk to Fives, have him pick you up at Senator Amidala’s building platform.”

Without getting another word in, Ahsoka and Padmé came to either side of you, Padmé linking her arm through yours as she ushered you towards her personal transport. Anakin made a B-line for where Fives and Echo were still standing, preparing the arrangements exactly as he said he would. Rex was left in the middle of the landing platform, but instead of following his General, he just watched you, shoulders dropping a little. Until you looked over your shoulder, with something of a pleading and apologetic look, then Rex straightened up and simply nodded as if he approved, but you could tell it was for show. You sighed deeply and returned to the conversation Padmé had you in. 

The entire afternoon flew by, and you had to admit, there was something kind of fun about being Padmé’s dress-up doll; most of your life you’d only known your hospital uniform and now your 501st medic uniform. Because of that, Padmé wanted to find the perfect match for you to feel confident and beautiful in. Which colours matched your eyes, your hair, your skin tone, oh and then the shoes. Ahsoka stuck around and was nothing but your number one hype woman, claiming that everything looked amazing. You were shy about the situation, and the thought of the clones seeing you in some of her outfits made you light headed. But in the end, Padmé and you settled on a silky grey outfit, it was simple but elegant, yet casual enough for a night out. The sleeves were long, with an off the shoulder neckline. A wrapped fabric sash hugged your waist, something you were very used to, and the pants flared into a lovely bell shape past your knees. The slightest sliver of your torso exposed, nothing too showy, but just enough to make it a little less uniform looking. Padmé finished the look off with a pair of her favourite sandals. 

“Perfect,” she clasped her hands in front of herself once again, looking at you in her mirror, “in fact I believe the colour is a near match to the clones’ official uniforms, but don’t worry this is much more fashionable.”

“Now you’ll really look like a member of the army, Angel,” Ahsoka confidently set her hands on her hips.

“Angel?” Padmé questioned, having only heard you go by your real name.

“Oh, it’s her code name, nickname, y’know like all the clones have?” Ahsoka explained, leaning closer to whisper, “rumour from Fives is that Rex gave it to her.”

With a wink from Ahsoka, Padmé’s smile grew and you turned around to face them both, wondering what the cause of their inside amusement was, but when you gave a softly questioning look, they cleared their throats and moved on.

“So, Fives will be here any minute, how are you feeling? I heard this is your first time out and about on Coruscant,” Padmè inquired.

“Oh, um, yeah, it is,” you wrung your hands, “I’m a little nervous, to be honest,” the two exchanged a glance again, making you panic, “don’t get me wrong, I love Kix and Fives and Echo and my whole squad, I just- I’m not used to it all yet, especially this part.”

“The casual, personal part?” Padmé perked an eyebrow, but you missed her meaning.

“Yeah, that,” your tone was longing as you stared out her window at the busy Coruscant sky, “sometimes I think I’m going about it all wrong, or it’s all in my head or he-”

You paused yourself, realising that you were about to expose a deep-rooted feeling to someone on your squad, Ahsoka, and a Senator you hardly knew. Closing your mouth you tried to think of something else to talk about, but thank the stars General Skywalker walked into the room.

“Fives is here,” he announced, gesturing with a thumb over his shoulder towards the door.

“Oh boy,” you said, taking a deep breath nervously.

“Have fun,” Padmé put a hand on your shoulder, it felt motherly, in fact, it reminded you of Master Nema’s words, ‘they are your team, your family, and your friends.’

“I’m sure they just want to get to know you out of uniform,” Ahsoka smiled hoping to give you confidence, Anakin had to give an eye roll to her wording, which went completely over her own head, but the adults heard it.

“Don’t be nervous, they’re pretty tame compared to some groups, but they’re still fun, unlike some,” Anakin tilted his head back and forth, a few other clone platoons coming to mind for each extreme.

Anakin walked you down to the building’s platform, where you found your three friends, Fives, Echo, and Kix waiting for you, in proper uniforms, not their armour, which did happen to match your outfit nearly perfectly. It made you smile to see them; Anakin wished you all a good night and headed back up to the Senator’s flat. The walk wasn’t terrible and the three shared more fun stories from the bar as you headed there. 

Walking in you were already wide-eyed at the colours of the neon signs, the upbeat music, and all the other clones. Echo gave you a soft nudge to your hand with his, as if encouraging you not to be nervous. Fives found a table for all of you to stand around with relative ease.

“Alright, who’s having what?” Fives pointed around the table.

“That depends…who’s paying?” Echo responded.

“Well, that’s neither here nor there,” Fives shrugged.

“I think- I might be able to get them,” you began, looking through the handbag Padmé had loaned you, for the credits you’d brought with you.

“No, no, no,” they all chimed in, waving their hands as a signal to match their objection.

“The only kind of drink you should be getting is a free one,” Kix stated.

“Exactly,” Echo nodded, setting his hand on the table as if that finalized the conversation. 

You dropped your shoulders and took a long glance around the table, shocked they were all so opposed to the idea. When looking at Fives you saw him staring off in the distance towards the bar; you’d figured he’d seen a pretty girl and was distracted, but when you took a look in the same direction there wasn’t a girl in sight, just a clone in red and white armour, helmet still on, glaring back.

“Fives? You won’t let me pay either?” 

“I don’t think you’ll have to,” Fives chuckled, turning back to the table, “Hound’s been staring at you since we came in.”

“You are not serious-” Echo crossed his arms, knowing all too well where Fives was going with the idea. 

You laughed a little, shaking your head, catching on, “Fives, that only works in the movies, plus you’d need someone beautiful.”

“Now, wait a minute,” Kix places a hand on your shoulder.

“You underestimate yourself,” Echo finishes the sentence.

“Big time,” Fives adds, “besides I wasn’t going say anything,” Fives spreads his arms to gesture he had nothing in mind, “I would never- Echo, I can’t believe you thought I’d-”

“Guys, guys,” Kix says in a whisper, tilting his head toward the bar. Casually you look to find Hound headed towards you.

“Hey, you- you’re new here?” Hound asks, speaking to you as if the other three members of the 501st didn’t even exist.

“Oh, I don’t work here,” you smile, a little nervously, “I’m part of the clone army, I’m a nurse.” 

“A nurse? Wow,” Hound leans down to get a little more on your level, “well, I’ve got a few wounds I know you could heal; whatdya say to checking them out, I’ve already checked you out.”

Pressing your lips together you restrain a laugh, squeezing your hands together. You felt a little sorry, knowing he was tipsy, but also at the fact that you weren’t interested in a stranger to you. The others kept a steady gaze on you, careful to watch for any signs of requesting help because at one hint they’d jump in, no hesitation.

“You could at least buy me a drink first, officer, or is it, commander?” You played along.

“Sergent, but I like where you’re head’s at,” Hound winked when a waiter droid passed, 

“Why don’t you get three more,” you interjected and then had to think of a good cover, for a moment you reverted back to your normal self, but then found a good excuse and put on the flirty facade, “we can each have two and,” you placed a hand on his arm, “if we know each other well enough by then we’ll split the third.” 

Hound had to pause, absolutely heart-eyed for your idea, “alright,” he proceeded to order three of what you had overheard the boys saying they liked and suggested. It was only after he’d exchanged the credits with the droid that you actually turned back to the table completely, looking around with a smile at the other three of the 501st.

“Now, Hound,” Fives suddenly jumps back in, “what would Fox say? Aren’t you supposed to be looking for the culprit who stole the Chancellor’s slippers?”

“It was his personal speeder, Fives,” Hound retorts, slightly agitated, “and you wouldn’t dare.”

Your stomach gets a little queasy, you didn’t want to see them get in a fight, but as you were opening your mouth, Fives raised his hand and began calling “Fox! We found your missing man!”

When you spun to see who he was talking to, you saw Fox, the Coruscant Guard’s Commander in the doorway; he was actually doing his job of investigating individuals outside the bar, whereas his subordinate had clearly failed the mission of avoiding actually entering the bar. Fox was clearly unhappy, going over to the bar to retrieve his soldier’s helmet before coming to collect Hound himself. Grabbing him by the arm and pulling him back out of the bar, Hound softly protests the whole way.

“I can’t believe I just did that,” you cover your face with your hands, blushing wildly and smiling, it was a little exciting you had to admit, “poor guy,” you lower your hands, “I hope he didn’t actually need those credits.”

“Don’t worry, I’m sure the Chancellor pays him handsomely,” Echo rolled his eyes.

When the droid returned, they carefully placed all the glasses around the table, including the fifth; you stared at the extra glass, imagining that it was for someone else.

“So, uh…,” you danced your fingers around the rim of your drink, fingertips barely touching the cool glass, “does…Rex,” lowering your head to avoid the inevitable blush being visible, “come with you guys here?”

After a pause, you looked up just to make sure they had heard you. What you found were Fives and Echo exchanging their signature glances, Kix hid his smile by taking a swig of his drink and looking elsewhere. 

“Not usually, no,” Echo finally had the heart to tell you, his tone sounding like he knew it was going to be a letdown for you, so he wanted to deliver it gently, “he doesn’t get a whole lot of free time, being Captain.”

“Oh okay, right,” you nodded, partially understanding, partially let down; you were released he wasn’t here tonight, feeling so unlike yourself in your attire, but all the hopes of eventually coming back with him were dashed. 

“We got him here once,” Fives adds, drawing your eyes back up from your not-so-interesting-anymore drink, “yeah, when was it Echo?”

“We still had to be rookies,” Echo laughed through a smile at the memory. 

“Yeah,” Fives nodded in agreement, “you should have seen him,” he paused to take a drink himself, before leaning in towards you, you did the same, understanding that it was clearly a story to be kept under lock and key, “he actually asked a Twi’lek to dance, she turned him down flat though.”

Your smile faded, you were expecting a funny story where maybe Rex got tipsy or got in a fight, “oh,” you said under your breath. 

“He never came back after that,” Fives shook his head, “she was pretty brutal, pretty sure he said it’d take a miracle to get him back here.”

“Turned out she just worked here, but not into clones, ironic eh?” Kix rolled his eyes with a shrug. 

“Who is, really?” Echo added looking pretty dejected himself as he swirled the liquid in his glass, “we all look the same.”

“Blame Jango,” Fives almost laughed taking another drink. 

“Well, I think you’re all very handsome,” you chime in, straightening yourself up a little as if ready to make a speech when all their attention came to you, “any individual would be lucky to call any one of you their partner; you’re handsome and brave, and sweet.”

They exchanged heartfelt smiles, “thanks, Angel,” Fives reached an arm around your shoulders bringing you close enough for him to place a kiss to your temple, “whoever gets you is going to be even luckier.”

You shake your head, smiling as you looked down.

“I don’t think there’s anyone worthy of her,” Kix said in all seriousness.

“It’s true, whoever gets you had better be a king,” Echo pointed in your direction nodding, trying to convince you that they were right. 

“No,” you said softly, looking up, “I don’t think that’ll ever-”

“Troops,” a strong, familiar voice called gently, but firmly enough to grab your attention, from behind. 

“Captain!” Fives, Echo, and Kix all came to casual attention, straightening themselves up. 

You were still a bit behind with the routine and attention, only a few seconds behind them, you spun on your heel. Finding yourself in front of Rex, who for once was out of armour and in uniform just like the rest of them. Eyes wide and jaw nearly dropping you brought a hand up to salute him, even though the other hadn’t. Fives concealed a snicker behind your back and Echo elbowed him, pressing his lips together to hide his own laugh at how close to the books you were trying to be in conduct. 

“Cap- captain,” you stuttered out of shock and surprise, back pressing into the edge of the standing table as you leaned back to give a little more space between the two of you. 

Smiling, Rex looked beyond you to the others and then deliberately down at you when he said, “at ease.”

You did as he said, and clasped your hands in front of you, something you were certain you’d already picked up from Padmé, just with a little less confidence. When Rex joined the table, standing beside you, you too turned back to face everyone else.

“I thought you said you’d never- after-” 

“It was time for some wounds to be healed,” Rex interrupted shooting a glance to Fives, who prompts remained quiet. 

“It’s nice to have you here, Rex,” Echo raised his glass, “good thing we got an extra after all.”

“Yes, I hope I’m not stealing someone else’s,” Rex turned to you, figuring you might’ve met another clone and taken a fancy under the circumstance.

“N-no, no, it’s just- an extra,” you explained, blinking rapidly, almost as rapidly as your heart was beating.

“I’m glad to hear that,” Rex answered, wrapping his fingers around the glass, not breaking eye contact with you until he took a sip. 

Dipping your head, you bit your bottom lip to avoid a smile spreading too obviously. Rex made casual conversation with his fellow clones, even a few who recognized him coming over for a quick catch up, some leaning just past him to try and get a glimpse of you. You weren’t certain if it was intentional or not, but you noticed Rex lean a little further onto his elbow, blocking you from the other clone’s view if they started to stare too long. After a while, Kix stated that he was going to turn in for the night, needing to report to the medical bay tomorrow. You gave him a quick hug and told him you’d see him there as well. Echo promptly ushered Fives to the bar, intentionally leaving you and Rex alone. 

“You look nice, out of uniform,” you looked up at him, before realising your wording, stuttering, you tried to recover, “or no, is this in uniform? I mean out of armour, but in- so-”

“In uniform,” Rex nodded speaking through a chuckle at how desperately you were trying to make sure you didn’t misspeak; he wasn’t sure if he still intimidated you or if you were just intimidated by the fact that you were the only one who didn’t have proper soldier training. Rex never wanted you to feel out of place, in an attempt to put you at ease he continued, “besides I was advised to stay out of armour from a very reliable source, so here I am.”

You felt the back of his hand press against yours subtly, this time you got the chance to respond, pressing softly back against his, stretching your fingers out to touch his. Neither of you looked down but instead kept eye contact while your fingers teased at interlocking.

“Here you are,” you smiled, knowing the exact moment he was referring to.

“Right where I want to be,” Rex smiled back, closing his hand in yours.

Nurse of the 501st — Preface

Pairing: Captain Rex x FemaleNurse!Reader (ft. the 501st)
Word Count: 4.1k
T/W: fluffy ☁️
A/N:happy 5/01 day andwelcome to a little series I’ll be updating every now and then! All parts will be able to be read solo or together!

• Reader is assigned to the 501st as their main nurse; already knowing Kix she’s welcomed into the group pretty easily. Still intimidated about meeting Rex, the boys try and make her feel more at ease in her new situation, which helps once she learns Rex isn’t as scary as she thought he’d be.

Preface/Injured/79’s/Orphanage

↳m a i n m a s t e r l i s t

“Remember, they are your team, your family, and your friends,” Jedi Master Rig Nema told you in the elevator.

“Do I have to leave the hospital wing so soon?” you asked, shoulders slumped as you stared o the elevator floor.

“So soon?” Master Nema gave a silvery laugh, “it’s been years, and Kix asked for your transfer personally, which means they need more medical help. You’ll be doing a great service to many people.”

Taking a deep breath you nodded, meeting her eyes, “I know, Kix has been a great friend to me, I’m honoured that he’d request me, but…I just don’t know if I’ll fit in with them; I’m not a soldier, I’m not a hero, I’m not even a Jedi.” 

“You don’t need to be,” Master Nema set a hand on your shoulder maternally, dipping down to talk to you as her species was much taller than the average human, “you just need to let them know that you are there to help in any way you can, respect and experience will get you far with Captain Rex.”

She encouraged a nod out of you, but you were still anxious, sad, and scared all at the same time, had you been a Jedi you knew you’d be scolded for it, but you weren’t so you felt every emotion as it hit you. You’d never been on a trooper cruiser, you’d never been in action, you’d never been off Coruscant, the whole experience was overwhelming. Everyone on board seemed to have a routine and you had no idea where you fit in. While you were looking around the hallway, trying to get a glimpse of open doorways, Master Nema repressed a chuckle at your childlike curiosity.

“Ah, Master Nema,” you straightened up and snapped your gaze forward at hearing the familiar voice. 

A smile broke out across your face, “Kix!” 

He greeted you with a wave as you approached, “always good to see you, Master.”

“Likewise, Kix,” Master Nema bowed, “I am honoured that you requested my…student.”

The pause stung, you knew what she wanted to say and you knew what you had wanted to hear. Padawan. It was something forever out of your reach. As much as you tried to push past the fact that you were now far too old to even be considered a Padawan, it was something you forever wanted.

“Well, I only wanted the best,” Kix tilted his head to subtly wink at you. It made you smile, Kix went through medical training with you, and even though his program was accelerated and he was sent off to the 501st, he still kept in contact with you, which you greatly appreciated. 

“And the best you shall have,” Master Nema put a hand on your back, softly pushing you forward, “I know she will do great things.”

Now standing beside Kix, the sense of anxiety returned. 

“I cannot stay long, and I understand you will be underway soon,” Master Nema stated, noting your furrowed brows, “I will always be in contact should you need me, but I have every faith you will be just fine.” Kix shifted, knowing that she was largely talking to you, but trying to avoid attachment at the same time. Sharing one last glance she nodded to you, “Goodbye,” Master Nema bowed to you respectfully, “and may the force be with you.”

You wanted to call out saying ‘Master, wait,’ but you never earned the privilege to call her such, all you could manage was, “and with you,” bowing likewise and watching her head for the elevator to take her back to the hangar floor. She’d be back at the Jedi temple and you’d be off somewhere unknown to you. It felt like your heart had lost a piece.

“It’s really great to see you again,” Kix suddenly spoke, snapping you out of your gaze.

“Oh, yeah, you too Kix,” you stumbled, trying not to show your teary eyes.

Kix noticed you swiftly lift your hand to wipe away some tears, but opted not to say anything, knowing we all deal with sadness in our own way, instead he offered some words that would cheer you up, “you’re not alone,” he placed a gentle hand to the top of your shoulder and gave you a most sincerely look, “follow me, I’ve got plenty of brothers I want you to meet.”

Nodding, you put on a smile and followed him a little way down the corridor until it opened up into a large common room. There were clones everywhere; it made you smile at how unique they all looked. It was so different from some of the reports that made them all sound the same. Tattoos, scars, haircuts, and armour modifications made practically all of them identifiable from each other. You took in the room, seeing a dartboard on the side of the wall with a group playing.

“You couldn’t even hit a clanker if it was three feet in front of you,” one teased another who was losing at the game, “how on earth have you managed to survive this war?”

On the other side of the room, you saw one with his nose in a book and a handprint on his armour, while another with a 5 tattooed was trying to talk to him. Kix let you observe for a moment longer and amused himself at your facial expressions when observing their occupations. 

“Aye, Kix’s back,” one called out, “let’s meet the new shiny-”

They all came to attention and just as fast halted, seeing your figure standing next to Kix. You wore an outfit that was somewhere between a Kaminoan nurse uniform and a Jedi’s undergarment. Mostly white, with hints of blue, the uniform had the signature Kaminoan half skirt and pants with a metal belt that hugged the curve of your hips tightly with a blue gem in the centre, while the top half resembled a Jedi’s under tunic, fitted everywhere except for the sleeves, which flared out at your wrists. It had been gifted to you in order to match the colours of your new squad, but it was still a uniform you were familiar with as it had hints indicating your medical status, but clearly, the clones weren’t familiar with it at least not on a female human figure.

You waited for someone to say something, eventually looking to Kix, who was still amused, now by his own brother’s reactions. Finally, Kix spoke, “alright, you gawkers,” he clapped his hands, but their expressions didn’t change, “this is our new squad nurse, I’ve worked with her several times before and she’s the best of the best, she trained with Jedi Master Rig Nema on Coruscant,” Kix glanced around, rolling his eyes, looking to you and winking, he added, “and she’s force sensitive, mind-reader, so watch your thoughts!” With that they all snapped to attention, looking at Kix with an anxious expression.

“No, no,” you lifted your hands, concerned with how worried they looked, “I’m not a Jedi, so I can’t do those kinds of things.” You were partially lying, but you wanted them to feel at ease around you, not constantly worrying that you were reading their deepest darkest thoughts. 

“So, you’re from Coruscant, you’re force-sensitive, and you trained with a master, but you’re telling us you’re not a Jedi?” 

“Easy Fives,” Kix said, turning to you, knowing your past, “you don’t have to tell them anything if you don’t want to.” 

Thinking it over for a moment, you pushed your lips together, giving Kix a look that you were okay, he turned back to face the company, “I’m not a Jedi,” you started, “and I’m not from Coruscant either. I was identified as force sensitive when I was a very small child, I was taken to the Jedi Temple, but…I failed the entry tests; I was too scared, too emotional, and empathetic according to them. It weakened my connection with the force in the way the Jedi look for it, especially now with the war.”

“So why didn’t you get to go home?” the clone with a handprint on his chest plate asked with more sympathy in his voice than his counterpart. 

Taking a deep breath, you began to feel a little more at ease as you told your story, “Master Nema felt that I could be of great assistance as a medic alongside her in the Jedi hospital wing. So, she let me stay, she trained me to be a nurse, how the force can be used as a kind of medicine, a detector, and an aid. Despite never being able to be a Jedi, I grew up in the temple, but I was never…well, that’s not very interesting, but that’s most of my story,” you concluded with a smile.

The clones took to you quickly, they began asking questions about your time on coruscant and of training in the Jedi medical wing. It made you happy that they were so interested. 

“Ma’am have you ever worked on General Skywalker?” A clone asked, trying hide his smile.

“Oh yes,” you admitted, knowing he was their general, “let me tell you he’s a squirmer, I can’t get him to stay still for the life of me.”

The troops erupted with laguhter, which made you smile, feeling more and more a member of their family by the moment. After a few more questions, a command came over the intercom, Kix told you that you might want to find a seat, the cruiser was going into hyperdrive. You hadn’t even realised that it’d left the bay or the planet, which startled you a little. Nodding, you found a seat on the windowsill, you wanted to see first-hand what it looked like, having never been off-world. 

You saw Coruscant as a little planet beneath the cruiser, for a few moments it just got smaller and smaller, until the stars stretched around you and blurred your vision of the planet, before turning into swirls of blue and black. Just like that, it was gone, you raised a hand to the window, a heavy exhale leaving you. You felt like a child leaving their mother for the first time, you knew you were stronger than this, but nothing could prepare you from leaving the only place you’d ever called home. 

“You alright?” A voice asked behind you. 

Turning in your makeshift seat on the windowsill, you looked up, “oh, yes, thank you,… um, Fives, was it?”

“That’s me,” he said proudly, sitting opposite from you, “so, never been away from home?” You nod in response, “well, don’t worry, we all kind of know what that’s like, with Kamino and all, but we manage and I bet you will too.”

“Thank you, Fives,” you tilt your head to rest it softly against the window watching the stars, there was a comfortable pause between the two of you, he already felt like a best friend, “hey Fives, how’d you all get your names if you don’t mind me asking?”

Setting his helmet down, he began to explain that it was just something all clones did before leaving Kamino, it was a way of having some individuality in the legion. He was kind enough to actually identify everyone in the room for you, sometimes he broke into a little story about why someone had that name, like Echo. Eventually, they realised what was going on and some came to personally introduce themselves to you.

“We should give you one!” a clone shouted out after Fives finished introducing you to everyone.

“But I already have a name,” you shrug, wondering why they’d suggest it.

“Yeah, but now you’re in the five-o’-first, you’re one of us,” Fives gave you a smirk that made you blush a little.

“Yeah, okay!” you agreed enthusiastically after they all chimed in reasons you should have one.

After a few good laughs about suggested names, they finally settled on one despite your hesitation and objection, they insisted that it suited you, so you complied. Asking if this was the ship you’d be on the majority of the time, you decided to familiarise yourself with the passages and rooms. Kix offered to take you to the medical bay a little later but could sense that you wanted some time alone to take everything in. Kix literally had to stop a group that offered to show you around.

The halls were big and bright, you liked how clear the instructions you’d received were; it was a whole layout of the ship, the only problem was that it was a tiny hologram picture projected from your wristlet. You’d never had one before, always familiar with a pad or screen, but since you were going to be on the ground and out in the field they needed a more compact version for you.

“Okay…,” you were staring down at the little projection, “so if I’m here…then I need to go- oof!” 

You’d run right into the back of someone. Taking a step back, you were prepared to apologize profusely, mildly embarrassed that you hadn’t been watching where you were going, but the figure turned around and you went silent. He was a clone, but there was a presence you’d never felt before when you met his eyes. 

“Careful there, girly,” his deep strong voice said softly and kindly.

“So-so sorry, sir,” you managed, “I’m not familiar with this layout and I’ve never been on a ship before.” 

“Ah, a shiny aye?” Rex raised an eyebrow and smirked, it wasn’t condescending in fact it felt more flirtatious. You smiled slowly, trying to repress the blush rising, Rex chuckled, ‘a little flirting wasn’t a bad thing’ he told himself, assuming you were probably just being transported and he’d never see you again, “let me see where you’re headed, I’m sure I can help.”

Bringing your wrist in front of you, Rex moved beside you, examining the map, hand on his chin. You were distracted by his proximity, you not so subtly looked over to observe his profile. Although you’d seen it before, he was different and you couldn’t explain why. You softly smiled noticing his short blonde hair, a personal modification. You could also smell a signature cologne that was different from everyone else’s. As your eyes came back down you were noticing just how much of his neck was exposed without the helmet on. A smirk came across Rex’s lips, he shifted his eyes over to you for only a moment, returning to the hologram.

“You really should work on keeping your eyes where they need to be,” Rex said, knowing it’d fluster you. 

Lips parting with a shock at your own behaviour, you stared forward, uncertain how to respond, chest now rising and falling far more obviously than you wanted it to be. There was a burning blush on your cheeks that even you couldn’t repress. 

Straightening back up, Rex pointed to a box on the projection, “you’re headed here, it’s the hangar bay, I assume you’ll find your transport there; we’ll be prepping for a mission soon, so I’m sure you’ll get your instructions for departure there. And if you need any more help before then…just find me.” Rex winked.

“Oh right- yes, of course, right,” you fumbled, still feeling embarrassed, “thank you so much, I- I will be sure to tell Captain Rex how helpful you were.” 

Rex tilted his head amused as he watched you quickly walk away, shocked that you had no idea you were talking to Rex the entire time. 

When you found your way to the hangar bay, you met up with Kix and the 501st. There was a routine squad check before you were sent on your mission. So, you fell in line with the rest of them once it was announced the Captian was present. You swallowed harshly, eyebrows furrowing up together, fiddling with your fingers behind your back as you stood amidst the rows of the 501st. Kix looked over to you with a subtle reassuring smile, to which you tried to convincingly returned, not wanting him to think any less of you just because you’d never seen action and that you were anxious that this Captain Rex would be like a drill sergeant because you were a “shiny” as they called it. 

‘If only the clone I met earlier were the captain, he was so sweet and nice, and-’ Lost in your thoughts you stared down at the floor across from where you stood, biting the inside of your lip you questioned if this was the right call, if you were cut out for this, did any of them really like you, what if Rex– it was then that you realized you were the only one with your head down instead of snapped into attention. Looking up and to your left swiftly, you saw Rex making his way towards you, his signature Jaig eyes markings were far more intimidating than you imagined. You held your head high and tried to mimic the clones around you even though you stuck out like no tomorrow. Rex had been simply and quietly walking past them, but your throat tightened when he stopped a few paces after you and retrace his steps, walking backwards.

“What are you doing here?” Rex asked, placing his hands on his utility belt with commanding ease. 

“Well, I’m,” you began, trying to read his expression, but it was nearly impossible with his helmet on, “I’m the squad’s nurse.” 

“We already have a medic,” he countered, really asking for you to divulge more information.

“Yes, but-”

“I requested for her transfer, sir,” Kix joined in, still staring straight ahead as he spoke like his training encouraged, especially while speaking out of line, meanwhile you and Rex simultaneously looked over to the clone defending you.

“Why?” Rex questioned, his tone not mad, nor upset, he was just looking for an honest answer. 

“I need the extra hands, and she has abilities none of us have which are most beneficial medically,” Kix continued, “she’s the best I’ve ever seen, sir, and I have confidence she’ll save many lives.”

Rex slowly tilted his head to meet your gaze which was switching between the two men in uniform eagerly, “I see. I trust your judgement Kix,” the Captain concluded.

You released a breath you’d been holding but sharply inhaled when Rex moved to stand directly in front of you. Straightening up once again, you looked up, an anxious look still across your face. Rex lifted his hands and removed his helmet, tucking it under his forearm and holding it against his side. You met his eyes; jaw nearly dropping, lips parting and eyes widening, you recognized him immediately. Blinking you waited, knowing that if you spoke it’d be “out of line,” as he outranked you and he hadn’t asked you another question. You panicked thinking how disrespectful you’d been not to address him as Captain easier in the hallway.

“Welcome to the Five-o-first,” Rex gave a half-smile, lifting his hand to shake yours.  

Staring down at his open hand, a soft smile spread across your face. Happily, you brought your hand to meet his, and glanced up, truly meeting his gaze again, your smile caused your eyes to squint a little as you spoke through it, “thank you…Captain, I’m glad to be in such company.” 

Rex’s expression softened, and the tough, firm Captain attitude briefly faded, his face relaxed when he looked at you. In that moment, he didn’t treat you like another soldier, instead of a hard handshake, he automatically tilted your hand, his caressing yours from underneath, thumb pressed gently across your knuckles. He wasn’t sure where it came from or how he learned it, he’d only ever seen it when Anakin helped Senator Amidala down steep stairs, or out of a cruiser. Rex caught himself staring down at your hand in his, he carefully pulled his hand back from yours, not harshly, just suddenly, subtly shaking himself out of it, he looked at you once again.

“Well, yes, we should get…going,” he said, placing his helmet back on and continuing his inspection of troops.

You followed his path with your eyes, even leaning forward, head striking out from between the line of clones to watch him as far as you could.

“I think he liked you,” Kix playfully elbowed your arm as he looked down to you.

Leaning back into proper position, you smiled to yourself for more than one reason, before answering, “you think so?” 

“I’d say,” another voice chimed in from your other side, it was Fives, he was one clone down from you and there was a slight amusement in his tone, “I’ve never seen the captain so stunned.” 

“Stunned?” You lifted an eyebrow pondering that word, “oh, then I’m not so sure-”

“Trust us,” Echo, who was directly beside you, placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder, “we mean it in a good way; I’ve never seen him look at someone the way he looked at you, so take that as a good omen.”

Nodding to them, you could tell the line had been dismissed as Jesse came over to your little group from where he stood across the aisle, “See, not so scary, is he? What’d he say to you?”

While you and Kix began explaining the encounter to a few more clones who joined the conversation, Fives and Echo were waved over by Rex. As they left, it caught your attention; looking over your shoulder, you saw Rex standing with arms crossed, staring straight at you. His gaze made you quickly look forward once again despite the fact that his helmet was on, it felt strong.

“Sir?” Fives and Echo said in time, nodding to their superior. 

Rex hesitated before pulling his stare away from you, “what do you know about her?” he asked them, not particular about who answered. 

Fives exchanged a look with Echo and began, “well, she’s force sensitive-”

“A Jedi?” Rex interrupted with a frustrated tone, already drawing assumptions that you were undercover and they left him out of the plan.

“No, sir,” Echo hastened, “they identified her, but…she didn’t pass the entry exams when she was a child.”

“Ah,” was all that came from beneath Rex’s helmet.

“She trained under Jedi Master Doctor Rig Nema for her medical training though,” Fives added, “so who knows what tricks she might’ve still picked up. Could be quite useful in battle.”

“I’m not making her fight in our battle,” Rex said plainly.

“She’s coming with us though, isn’t she?” Echo asked, momentarily confused.

“She is,” Rex nodded, “but she chose the life of a medic, she’s a healer, not a soldier.”

“But Kix-”

“Is one of us,” Rex finished Fives’ thought for him. Seeing the troopers’ confusion, he removed his helmet to talk to them face-to-face, in a quieter tone he explained, “Kix is our brother, he was born and bred for battle, then he was medically trained. She’s not a soldier, she has abilities we don’t understand, but that doesn’t mean she should be forced to use them in war, she wasn’t trained like the generals,” Rex looked between the two, “understood?” 

Fives and Echo again exchanged a look, now understanding what he meant as they looked over to you, bright eyes filled with an eagerness to learn about the trooper lifestyle, but an innocence that was soon going to be lost to war. 

“Yes, sir,” they responded. 

“Good,” Rex nodded, ending the discussion, about to put his helmet on when Fives coughed to grab his attention.

“What- uh, what do you think of her, Sir?” 

Echo gave an eye roll, not impressed with Fives’ attempt at subtlety.

“What do I think of her?” Rex repeated, raising an unamused eyebrow. He knew what they were asking, but for now, he wanted to avoid the feeling that had stayed in the pit of his stomach since he first saw you. 

“Well, all the men have given her a nickname so she feels a bit more like one of us,” Fives continued, “they decided on Angel,” Fives glanced to Echo when he noticed Rex staring in your direction again, “they picked it because she’s been so nice to us all, and she’s a nurse, so healing and all, and well maybe…” he paused, “some of them fancy she looks like one, you know from the moon of Iego?”

There was a part of Rex that was amused by the fact that his men were already falling for you and a part that related. Rex wasn’t sure what it was about you, but the gravity you had seemed to pull him in immediately. Everything in his life had been accelerated, his age, his training, his entrance into the war, he began to wonder if his emotions were too.

“I ‘s’ppose it does,” Rex smiled.