In Command (#1 Post-Order 66 Series)

In Command - Part 3

"So Brak, what are your thoughts on the decommissioning of the clone army?" the inebriated commander loudly interjected.

"Long overdue. The clones served their purpose during the war, but they're obsolete now. The recruitment programs and the academies that have been established to train Imperial officers will no doubt provide more effective soldiers. And at least now we don't have to have the debate about who deserves rights anymore. What a waste of time that's been." Laughter erupted around them at that last statement.

Senna felt Rex's body stiffen next to hers, so she pressed into him. She looked up at him, but he refused to meet her eyes, focusing instead on the officer and sipping his whiskey. She could see a lick of flame in the amber of his irises and slipped her hand around his back, slowly stroking his shoulders and hoping that was somehow calming.

"Lovebirds, what are your thoughts?" Brak asked, carelessly waving his drink in their direction.

Senna turned to look at him, plastering her smile back on her face. "Well you must admit that the clones were quite effective during the war and against the Jedi when the time came. From what I understand, there were nearly no escapes, is that correct commander?"

"None that have actually been confirmed," slurred the drunk man. "But you never know where they could be hiding, and the clones may have underreported to remain rele...relegant? No, *hic* relevant."

"I understand the Jedi were traitors, but did they have to eliminate the younglings as well? That just seems so...barbaric," Zea stated, leaning against her husband.

"Oh no, their indoctrination happens at such a young age. They're like an invasive weed and must be ripped out by the roots. I completely understand the decision," Senna stated without any hesitation.

Rex slowly turned to look at her. Senna returned his stare, her smile unwavering and as sincere as could be. "Wouldn't you agree, dear?" she asked. Rex stared at her, the ember in his eyes fanning into a flame, but before he could reply, the commander violently vomited all over his own shoes. Everyone recoiled from the putrid liquid as droids rushed in to clean up the mess.

"On that note, I think we should call it an evening," Senna stated. "It was lovely to meet you all. Thank you for making us newcomers feel so welcome. Please reach out to us any time."

"It was wonderful to meet you both," Zea returned. "Happy first Empire Day!" She leaned in to embrace Senna, planting a light kiss on her cheek.

Brak reached to grasp Rex's arm in a goodbye and with a look from Senna over Zea's shoulder, he obliged. "Until next time then?"

"Yeah. Until then," Rex downed the rest of his whiskey and began moving towards the exit.

"Oh dear, is he upset?" Zea asked.

"No, he has a thing about vomit. Can't handle the sight or smell of it before he has to lose his lunch too," Senna joked. Turning on her heel, she marched after Rex, trying to keep her pace not too rushed while also not losing sight of his blonde hair.

She caught him as he stepped out into the cool night air. Grabbing his arm as gently but firmly as she could, she pulled him close to her. Stormtroopers were still guarding the entrance, although far fewer than before. Turning to face him, she leaned into his ear, whispering angrily while trying to maintain the smile. "Pull yourself together, Captain. There are still eyes on you."

He looked down at her with a full blown wildfire in his eyes, making little attempt to hide his anger. Quietly, he growled back "Do not call me that."

He at least allowed her to walk with her arm linked through his as they exited the courtyard and made their way back to their dwelling. Once inside the outer wall, he wrenched his arm free of her grasp, storming into the house. He attempted to slam the door close button behind him, but the door hit her outstretched forearm, springing back. The lack of satisfaction he felt from the door being jarred back open only intensified once she slammed the lock behind her instead, kicking her shoes off in the doorway and staring at him with anger.