In the den…
The boys were busy with their models in the kitchen so they wouldn't have to worry about them over hearing this. Now they just had to explain things to the others sitting with curious expressions on their faces.
Jacob sighs and says, "Ruby cannot talk, at least not of her own free will."
"Why?" Rex looks shocked and confused.
"We're not sure of it ourselves. But ever since she came to us, we found she talked in her sleep." Lila cries.
"We've tried to tell her, but she doesn't believe us. I think it might scare her to think it might be too good to be true." Nicol's ears fall.
"We've talked to doctors and they say that she has to choose when to talk herself and we can't force it. So we let it be. Please don't say anything to her. It always tends to upset her." Jacob looks pleadingly to them.
"We understand and will respect your wishes." Kenobi nods.
'Ruby…' Rex looks down at the ground biting his under lip slightly.
Cody was in shock at the news, to be able to speak but also unable to do so. He couldn't imagine it.
He looked over at Nicol with her ears still down and thought 'She really does care for her friend.' Cody couldn't help but respect that.
The next day…
Nicol was getting ready for the talent show, practicing out back for the big event. Ruby and the cubs watching her as she tried to get the song right.
"Oh I don't know. It's just doesn't sound right yet. Maybe I need to use another song." Nicol feels frustrated as she paces.
'It's so pretty.' Ruby sighs with a wagging tail.
"Yeah it sounds good." Ranger said.
"It's pretty." Matches nods.
The others agree nodding.
"Thanks guys. I just feel it's missing some feeling in it." Nicol sighs.
'Why not take a break? It might help.' Ruby smiles at her friend.
"Maybe a break is needed. I still need to figure out what I'm going to wear." Nicol sighs again.
'I can help with that.' Ruby's tail wags.
"Let's play first. Yeah. Let's play." The boys cheer.
"Okay you all win." Nicol chuckles as they cheer.
With the boys…
"That's a nice sight." Rex looks out his window to them playing a game similar to Red light Green light.
"And what's that supposed to mean?" Cody raises a brow at his brother.
"I'm just saying it's nice. And I can understand the appeal of staying." Rex turns to his brother.
"I don't. I don't see anything that would make me want to stay or abandon my post." Cody looks away as he looks at what he should be wearing for today.
"You don't really feel that way. The way you look at Nicol is proof of that." Rex huffs.
"Just like how you look at Ruby, especially how I know you didn't like the thought of Dimitri possibly liking her." Cody huffs crossing his arms.
"Of course I didn't like it. Because I… I've fallen for Ruby." Rex looks at the window longingly.
"Rex….I. Does this mean you're staying?" Cody looks over at him sadly.
"I can't and won't leave you or the others. But I…" Rex sits on the edge of his bed. "I love her. Cody I love her and I don't know what to do." his head in his hands.
Cody sits down next to him, one arm hugging him and says "I don't know Rex. I wish I knew myself." All Cody could do was pat his back, but he knew this would affect Rex. He just didn't know how to best help him.
With the girls in Nicol's room…
'Oh what about this one?' Ruby pulls out a nice red dress.
"That more your style, sure you don't want to wear it for Rex." Nicol raises a brow grinning.
'Do you really think Rex likes me?' Ruby looks over at her friend a bit red.
"I told you I can smell it a mile away. He likes you." Nicol sing songs.
'I'm not sure. What if he only sees me as a sister? Or a friend?' Ruby's ears droop at those thoughts.
"You'll never know if you don't try Ruby. You have to take a chance. At least this once." Nicol hugs her friend trying to encourage her.
With that they finished getting ready for the talent show. Really it's more like a festival with a few booths set up with things people had made for others to buy. Or stands with art on them.
They met with the guys in front of a fountain in the middle of everything.
Rex felt like he was going to pass out. Ruby looked like a princess in her outfit.
(Rex outfit: Navy blue button up shirt/ black pants/ black shoes)
(Ruby's outfit: an under long sleeve white shirt with frills at the end of the sleeves/ pink tank top dress that falls to her ankles/ brown lace up ankle boots/ hair in a braid ponytail with a pink ribbon at the end/ then pink and blue roses on either side of her head/ white eye shadow and light pink lipstick)
'He's staring.' Ruby thinks to herself playing with her braid.
'She looks amazing.' Rex feels the air catch in his throat.
Nicol ended up wearing the red dress Ruby suggested, it came to her ankles, and it was sleeveless with thin straps. She wore white flats with bows on them and her hair had been made curly messy for the event. She wore a touch of make up as well.
'Wow he looks good in that.' Nicol had to stare as she saw Cody.
Cody was wearing a light yellow button up shirt, dark brown pants, and black shoes. He was standing frozen. 'Can't move, why?' Then he noticed she was staring. 'Be strong Cody, be strong.' He tried to remind himself.
The four walk around together for a bit. Rex and Ruby walk close to one another but fidgety about getting any closer or looking at one another.
Nicol finally decided to try her plan again and said "Hey Cody I want to look at a few things before my turn. Mind coming with me?"
Before Cody can answer he's pulled off, red as a tomato.
'Nicol!' Ruby shouts in her head with her ears up.
"What should we do know? Just look around?" Rex rubs the back of his neck slightly.
Ruby flushes with downed ears but nods. The two walking around again. That is until Ruby stops by a vender wagon. It had all sorts of necklaces on it. Her eyes locked on a black velvet choker with a silver heart bell dangling from it. Her ears drooping seeing the price. It's handmade and for an event it makes sense the price would be a bit high.
'Maybe I'll ask Jacob to get if for me as a graduation present.' Ruby sighs starting to walk off.
Rex stays a bit longer. The generals had given them a bit of spending money. This would take a chunk out. But if he couldn't say how he felt he could at least give her something to remember him by.
'Cody will help with food if it's needed.' Rex takes out the money pointing to the necklace.
The woman places it in a nice box with a ribbon around it. Rex then stuck it in his pocket for later. For now it was time for the contest to start.
While that was going on Nicol had pulled Cody over to some art stands to look at. Cody had never had much of an interest in art and couldn't quite understand it. Nicol though seemed to have a grip on it and told him a few things, some historical, and some emotional on the works. Then it was time for the show.
"Time to get going." Nicol says as they rush off.
As they came to the stage Nicol waved him goodbye as she went back stage, he didn't know why but he just waved back slowly. Everyhtign at the moment had just felt like a daze. 'What just happened?'
"Hey. What happened?" Rex looks confused.
Ruby a bit too happy with a mint ice cream cone in hand. She licks with a small ear bounce.
"I'm not too sure but I think I was giving an art lesson." Cody shakes his head.
"Art, really?" Rex looks over at the stands.
'I'll have to look at them later.' Ruby thinks as she eats her treat.
Then a Chat comes up and announced that everyone quiet down for the performers. A few Chat went up to sing, others dance, magic tricks, instruments, and several other acts. Then it was finally Nicol's turn. She came out into the stage and looked out to her friends and smiled.
Cody felt his heart jump at that. 'Why does she do this to me?'
'Oh Cody.' Rex sighs feeling for him.
'Does he like her?' Ruby's ears go up seeing this.
Nicol then came to the mic and began to sing.
"There's a calm surrender to the rush of day. When the heat of the rolling world can be turned away. An enchanted moment and it sees me through. It's enough for this restless warrior just to be with you…"
Cody felt his heart jump to his throat. That couldn't be a coincident it couldn't, or was she even talking about him… He looks over at Ruby and Rex.
'Could she be…' Rex and Ruby flush at that.
"It's enough for this wide-eyed wanderer that we got this far. And can you feel the love tonight? How it's laid to rest…"
Nicol would dance and sway to the song slowly turning here and there trying to move with the music. Putting all her emotion into it.
Ruby eats her ice cream trying to not look over at him. While Rex looks down sticking his hands in his pockets, feeling the little gift.
"There's a rhyme and reason to the wild outdoors. When the heart of this star-crossed voyager beats in time with yours…"
She put her hands over her heart, feeling something but was uncertain what. Cody could feel it too, but he knew what it was. But he also knew he couldn't be feeling this.
"And can you feel the love tonight…!"
At that many couples started snuggling up and Cody had to admit he was feeling it. Even if he tries so hard not to but as she looked into his eyes something seemed to click in both.
Ruby looks over at Rex and Rex at her. For a moment they held eye contact. He held the box tight wondering if he should give it to her. But then…
"It's enough to make kings and vagabonds believe the very best. It's enough to make kings and vagabonds believe the very best."
Nicol had been so shocked at her sudden realization of her feelings that as she danced, she miss-stepped and "Raw!" She yowled as she fell off the stage.
"Nicol!" They call in their own way, the moment gone.
Cody felt his training kick in fast. He shot over and caught her falling on him.
"Nicol, you okay?" Cody asks sitting up.
"Mow, my leg hurts. Thanks for catching me. I wouldn't have landed on my feet very well with that twist." Nicol whined a bit.
'Are you okay?' Ruby looks at her worried.
"Can you stand?" Rex looks her over.
"I don't think I can stand. It hurts too much." Nicol flinches.
"I got you. Let's get you back to the estate." Cody picks her up bridle style making her flush.
'For a soldier he's got gentle hands. Oh he smells like cedar.' Nicol thought, feeling a bit dizzy from the fall as she leans into his chest.
'Jasmin? Is that her?' Cody flushes but shakes it off as he rushed her back to the estate, Rex and Ruby running alongside.
'He really does like her doesn't he?' Ruby thinks following behind.
'Cody you really should just tell her.' Rex eyes him as they head off. 'Maybe I should.' He ponders.
Once at the estate…
The cadets were worried but Lila shoed them off to the other room so Ruby could work on Nicol without much trouble.
'Any better?' Ruby heals her ankle with her power.
"Just a bit dizzy. I can't believe I lost my balance. Ooh." Nicol lays back down on the coach her face getting a little red.
'You alright?' Ruby lays her down.
"I don't know, ever since the fall I've felt dizzy." Nicol chuckles.
'What's this doing here?' Ruby notices a poppy in her hair.
"I don't remember putting that on." Nicol looks confused.
'I would hope not.' Ruby places it on the table. Not wanting to touch it for long. The others come in and she shows it to them.
Lila gasps saying "What was a poppy doing near anyone? Of course she be dizzy. Any Chat would if they were exposed to one too long."
"Is it poisonous to you all?" Cody feels ill at that thought.
"Luckily no. They're just disorienting to us." Jacob shakes his head. "But it begs the question of HOW it got on her." He stares at it sharply.
"Was anyone around at that time? Some one that could slip it on you?" Kenobi looks at the clearing head girl.
"I remember Chad and his lackies where going to perform." Nicol tries to concentrate with a headache.
'One of those strays could have done it. Chester can levitate things.' Ruby explains recalling the gray Chats skill.
"I'll have a little word with those boys." Jacob takes the flower away with a small snarl.
"Are you okay?" Cody looks worried at Nicol. His heart was still racing after the fall.
"My head is still killing me." Nicol flinches on the couch.
'I'll get you some ice for your head.' Ruby signs heading off to the kitchen.
In the kitchen the cubs go wild asking if she's okay. Rex explains calming them down. They then run in to hug her.
Ruby brings the ice out. Anakin taking the cubs back to finish up their models. He was helping with the tech bit and was having fun playing the older brother.
'Mind looking after her as I get some medicine from the garden?' Ruby looks over at Cody.
"Of course." Cody nods.
"I'll help you." Rex heads off with her.
'Sigh he's going to tell her. If only…No Cody you can't just. Just keep an eye on her.' Cody's goes back to making sure Nicol was okay.
'Is he going to admit it, if only my senses weren't so out of it. But then why go out to talk to her alone?' Nicol smiles at the thought hoping it was true.
'Sorry Cody. But I have to at least say it.' Rex feels the gift in his pocket as he follows.
Once the two are gone Cody looks to Nicol and says "Do you need anything else?"
"No just something for my head. After that I think I'm off to bed. I can't believe those strays got to me like that." She growls.
"Hey you're okay, and your performance….It was still really good." Cody looks away flushed.
Nicol looked shocked at him and said flushed "Really?"
Cody just nodded not able to really stare at her. Nicol felt a purr rise in her throat still feeling a bit light headed as she went up to hug him and said "You're a real sweet tom Cody."
Cody jumps at that but before he could say more she falls back to the couch out cold. He feels his face turn red but holds it as he thinks 'Forget it, it was the poppy. Get it out of your head it's not happening.' And yet his heart still felt like it was going at warp speed.
In the garden…
Ruby gathers a few things that can help with her head. Rex holding the basket and getting things as she asks for them while mixing.
'There. That should help.' Ruby looks at what looks like ground tea leaves in a small pouch.
"Um before heading back…" Rex takes the blue box out of his pocket.
Ruby's ears go up, her face red. Opening it she stares at the necklace she had been eyeing.
'Y-you got this for me?' Ruby looks at him flushed holding it close.
"I saw you were looking at it and I… I thought it would be a good way of saying how I feel." Rex tries to keep his voice from shaking.
'How he feels?' Ruby looks really hopeful at this point, tightening her grip around the present.
'Come on Rex just say it.' Rex takes a deep breath.
"I've fallen for you." Rex manages to get out. "If you d-" he can't even finish as arms wrap around him.
'I do too. I love you.' Ruby nuzzles him with misty eyes hoping he understood.
Rex holds her close at that, an endless smile on his face. As they part, she holds the necklace up with a shy smile on her face.
"You want me to put it on?" Rex points to himself a bit red.
Ruby nods slowly. Rex could feel his heart try to jump out as he bends down to hook it. His lips and hers, inches away. Once it was hooked though he got a surprise as she pecks his lips.
She flushes with an ear bounce and takes the little bag. Leaving behind a frozen Rex. He wasn't sure if time or his heart had stopped. Maybe it was both. But he came to and his smile widened even more.
'Cody's going to know something happened.' Rex thought and yet didn't care.
A thought then came to him. He'd have to tell her they couldn't tell. At least not yet. He had a plan in his head. Prove they could have a relationship and it not affect their work. Maybe then that ridiculous rule would be abolished.
He does catch up to her just before the door and explains. Ruby wasn't a fan of the rule but understood his nerves then. She agrees to it. She wants to be with him and will do what is needed. Plus, there's something romantic and thrilling about a secret courtship.
'But I can tell Nicol, right?' Ruby looks at him pleadingly.
"Of course. I'll be telling Cody." Rex smiles stroking his thumb across her cheek.
Ruby leans into it taking in the one of many future stolen moments. Rex flushes at that, then leans forward kissing her. This one longer than the peck but still ends too quickly for them as they soon part to enter the manor again.
Back inside…
Cody had finely cooled off when he saw the two come in. He noticed the new necklace on Ruby's neck and the flush on Rex's face and new something had happened.
"Hey Cody…" Rex rubs the back of his neck.
"We can talk later in our room. Right now we should let the girls rest." Cody nods at Ruby.
'I hope he approves.' Ruby nods placing a hand lightly on the bell making it jingle quietly.
With that they head off to their room.
Once there…
"I told her my feelings and she feels the same." Rex gets out a bit red but serious.
"I figured as much. So how are you going to handle all this?" Cody crosses his arms.
"You're not going to try yelling or stopping me?" Rex is a mix of relief and confused at that.
"Rex we've known each other our whole lives. I could never stop you once you truly set your mind into something." Cody sighs.
"Are you mad?" Rex looks a bit worried.
"No. I can't blame you really. I suppose you have a plan for all this?" Cody looks at his brother.
"Yeah…" Rex nods then explains his plan.
As Cody listened, he nodded and then said "Sounds sound enough. Hope it all works out for you."
"You're not going to tell Nicol how you feel?" Rex looks confused again.
"No Rex. It's not going to happen." Cody shakes his head.
"Why not?" Rex lifts a brow a bit annoyed at his brother's stubbornness.
"Rex, she has a choice between me and the grassland heir. Who do you think she'll choose?" Cody glares.
"She could still choose you." Rex is fighting not to snap at him now.
"I don't think so Rex. Besides, being the grand marshal of the Republic army I don't have the same luxury as you do to come up with these kinds of schemes. I can look the other way and say nothing. That I promise you, but I can't join in." Cody explains.
"Cody…" Rex sighs heavily massaging between his eyes.
"I got too many responsibilities Rex. You go on and find a way to help us figure this out if you can but… I just don't think I can find that for myself. It's not possible." Cody sighs as he lays down ready to sleep.
"I don't think it is." Rex says crawling into bed.
The next day…
Nicol woke up a bit light headed but with at least no headache, and then she remembered what she did before she passed out and yowled.
'You okay?' Ruby pops awake worried.
"I… I…" She then explains what happened last night with Cody.
'That's… wow.' Ruby had no words. Pun only slightly meant.
"It's so embarrassing. He probably thinks I'm a freak now." Nicol hides her red face in her hands.
'I'm sure that's not true.' Ruby rubs her back, her bell chiming lightly as she moves.
"I don't think I can face him and…" Then Nicol heard it, a bell. She looked up and gasped pointing "Did Rex…?"
'He said he loves me.' Ruby has an endless smile and slight flush to her.
"Congratulations!" Nicol hugs her, happy for her friend.
'Thanks. But…' Ruby's ears droop a bit as she tells her everything.
"That's so sad. I can't believe they have such a rule." Nicol growls.
'It is. But we're working out a plan.' Ruby nods touching the bell lightly remembering his words and gentle kiss.
"Well I'm glad you two are figuring things out, don't worry I won't say anything. Well better get down stairs to eat and face Cody." Nicol sighs red.
'Right.' Ruby nods.
Suddenly their ears jumped as they heard a door slam open and familiar voice call "Nicol!"
"Dimitri?" Both girls say in their own way confused.
They both then get ready and then rush downstairs to see him looking around panicked.
"Dimitri what are you doing here? What's wrong?" Jacob asks.
"I heard what happened last night and rushed out here. Don't worry I had my parents' consent this time and Greta came. Is Nicol okay? How is she?" Dimitri looks over pale and worried.
"You can ask her yourself." Nicol says as the girls start walking down.
'Hi.' Ruby waves.
"Nicol…" Dimitri jumps as he rushes up to her and holds her close.
Cody feels his heart break at that. He knew it was coming but still, it hurt.
"Dimitri settle down, I'm fine." Nicol flushes at his warm hold and sunshine smell.
"I'm sorry I was just so worried. I was already planning on coming early but when I heard the news I just had to rush over." Dimitri pulls back looking at her with concerned eyes.
'Does he…?' Ruby's eyes widen never knowing this before.
"I needed to come early, so can we talk in the garden please?" Dimitri looks at her pleadingly.
Nicol feels her heart jump at that and Cody, he walks away not able to see this.
'Cody…' Rex follows after him.
'The poor tom.' Ruby's ears droop going with him.
"Dimitri I…" Nicol didn't know what to say, her head was spinning all over again but for different reasons.
Dimitri held her hand and led her out to the garden.
Once out there they sit down on a stone bench and he said "Okay, I'm just going to come out and say out. Nicol I've been in love with you for a long time now. And I want to ask you if I can….if you would allow me to marry you." He takes out a ring with a white teardrop diamond.
Nicol's eyes widened at that and she looks into his sincere eyes. How many times had she dreamed of this, how many times had this tom made her laugh, and flush? And yet all she could think of was someone else.
She looked at him sadly and right away he noticed it "If this is about the bridal price, I'll double it. If your parents need convincing, I'll…"
"No. Dimitri I can't, I just…It wouldn't be fair to you." Nicol closes the box.
"What? What does that mean, not fair? Nicol…" Dimitri starts but.
"I'm sorry you came all this way for nothing. I never wanted to hurt you." Nicol starts crying as she rushed back in and locks herself up in the library.
Dimitri looks on stunned as he just sits there in the garden. 'What just happened.' He then sees Ruby and thinks 'Maybe she knows what's going on.' And heads over.
A little while before in the dining room….
"You want to talk?" Rex looks over at his brother.
"Why would I, I knew this was coming. Not like I was ever any match." Cody shrugs his shoulders not willing to admit to any of it.
Ruby's ears droop able to smell his heart break. He really cared for her and if Nicol did do that last night, she liked him. And is picking him. At least by instinct.
Though that's not her place to say. And there's something else she has to do first. She walks over and gives a small head bow in front of Cody.
'I know you're afraid for Rex. And I'm sorry I'm that danger. But I promise I do love him and want to protect him just as much as he does me. So… please can we have your blessing?' Ruby looks at him pleadingly with slightly misting eyes.
'Ruby.' Rex takes a hold of her hand kissing the top of her head lightly.
Cody looks over at Ruby in shock and shakes his head "I was never angry at you Ruby. I was just worried for Rex. Trust me he do whatever he wanted weather I told him to or not. And you and him want to help my brothers, and since you make him happy, I wish you two all the luck and happiness in the galaxy."
Ruby's ears pop up at that as she hugs him. Nuzzling Cody's slightly scruffy cheek.
'I'm going to go get some berries for breakfast. See you later.' Ruby heads off with a skip to her step, the bell seeming to chime to her heart at the moment.
"Thanks." Rex smiles at him softly.
"Like I was going to say no." Cody looks away.
"You know, I've always known you'd stand by me no matter what I picked. Though I did expect a small fight about choosing to tell her." Rex has a small nervous chuckle at that.
"You disappointed. I can always make it up if you want." Cody glares.
"Point is I knew I could tell you anything and you'd help me. And I'm here for you." Rex looks over at him warmly yet worried.
At that Cody couldn't hold it in anymore and just slumped into his chair and cried silent tears "I knew it wasn't possible, but it still hurts Rex. It hurts." He holds his aching heart.
Rex pats his back as he lets it out. Nothing else could be done at this moment.
Present and outside…
Ruby had just missed Nicol and had a basket full of barriers. Her ears bouncing happily at how things turned out for her.
"Ruby." Dimitri calls.
'Done talking?' Ruby turns to him a bit surprised.
"About that…" Dimitri then explains her reaction.
'Oh Nicol…' Ruby looks ready to bolt for her.
"I know you need to go to her… but can you tell me what this is about. Please?" Dimitri takes a hold of her arm with a pleading look.
'The thing is… I think she's torn between her old crush on you and her new feelings for Cody.' Ruby's ears droop at that.
"I see." Dimitri's ears droop letting her hand go.
'I'm sorry.' Ruby nods her head to him then heads off.
At the library…
'Nicol please open the door.' Ruby knocks.
"Go away! I want to be alone!" Nicol shouts still crying.
'Please.' Ruby scratches at the door lightly letting her know who it is.
"Ruby?" Nicol sniffs as she rushes up to open the door.
Ruby's ears droop holding up the basket. Pretty much saying 'Want to talk as we snack?' Looking at her friend hopeful.
"I just don't know what to do. My heart is torn, and it hurts. I've dreamed of that moment for so long and now…Now I just can't feel right about choosing either like this, not when I can't even be sure of my own feelings." Nicol snacks on some berries as she sits on the couch.
'Maybe talk to both of them.' Ruby suggests eating a few blue berries.
"I don't want to even look at them. It hurts too much to have to break their hearts." Nicol weeps.
'But don't they both deserve an answer? And don't you need to settle your feelings?' Ruby looks at her friend with dropped ears.
"I guess they do but please give me some time to process all this. It's been too much too fast." Nicol sighs.
The girls sit for a bit snacking on the barriers. They'd head out to the others once either Nicol is ready to face them or the basket is empty. Most likely the latter.
With the guys…
Dimitri was in a haze as he walked about, he wasn't sure how to feel.
'I should have told her earlier. You wanted to let her accomplish her dreams first. But now I lost my chance, or have I?' Dimitri holds his chin.
She said no, but not because she didn't like him. In fact she had a crush on him, but now she liked another. That meant he still had a chance but….
Then he heard something 'Crying, who's crying.' He heads over to the dining room to find the two brothers, the blond comforting the burnet. Dimitri couldn't help but feel his fur stand but pushed it down. It was an instinct for toms to become aggressive towards rivals but….
'She hate me I if ever did that.' Dimitri sighed. Then he saw the broken man, he was a strong soldier, he heard he had a high position and was skilled.
'I can see why she likes him. Much more mature then me that's for sure.' He sighs but he accidently almost makes a vase fall but catches it in time.
The brothers turn at that.
"What are you doing here?" Rex glares slightly.
"Come to gloat? There's no need. I already know she chose you." Cody glares and looks away.
"First of all I'm not a jerk, so I wouldn't gloat. Second of all even if I wanted to gloat, I have no reason to cause she said no." Dimitri crosses his arms.
"She what?" They look over surprised.
Dimitri sighs as he comes over to sit across form them and says "Turns out I have competition. Meaning you." He points to Cody.
"What? No that can't be I…" Cody starts but.
"Ask Ruby yourself and don't act that way. I've noticed a few things when you're around her, but I chose to ignore them. I thought I had the better chance since I've known her longer but that's not the case." Dimitri sighs.
"What do you mean?" Rex looks surprised.
"It means we have to settle this somehow. Nicol ran off after she said no to my proposal, but only because she thought it wouldn't be fair to be with me when she also has feelings for you." Dimitri points at Cody making it clear.
Cody had to sit up at that. This had to be some sort of joke. Right?
"You're serious?" Rex eyes him, hopeful for his brother but still weary of this Chat.
"It's true. Nicol does want someone in her life, but she never felt ready or she always got asked by jerks. As for me, guess I took too long. Wanted to wait till she accomplished her dream of becoming a countess before I asked her anything." Dimitri sighs.
"It's not like she still won't chose you. I'm not exactly staying, and my job can't exactly afford for a wife. I have no way to even get a bride price or a ring. So why would she chose me? Then there's the little detail about us not being able to even have attachments." Cody glares.
"Wait they don't let you…" Dimitri looks shocked.
"Please don't tell. We have a plan to deal with it." Rex looks a bit pleadingly.
"I won't, trust me. But that rule is just wrong." Dimitri scrunches up his nose.
At that they all just sat there a moment unsure what to do. Cody still couldn't believe that this was all real. Did she really say no to the heir because of him? 'It means she loves you dummy! It can't be I… I can't, I…'
Then they heard the door open, the girls were coming in and they straitened up.
"Guys. I need to talk to the both of you." Nicol said a bit shaken.
The two looked at each other but nodded towards her.
'Rex and I will go.' Ruby starts to head over to him.
"No, Ruby could you stay here?" Nicol looked at her friend her eyes saying, 'I need support.'
Ruby nods. She understands her friend needs someone here for her. Rex and Ruby sat at a nearby chair while Nicol took another.
She sighed and said "Guys I need to be honest with you both and you both deserve answers. So this is it. Dimitri, I've had a crush on you for a very long time. And you were always there for me. You made me laugh. I want to thank you for that." Dimitri smiles at that as Cody looks down.
"And Cody, you practically showed me another galaxy. You have a strong will and heart that I haven't seen in many, but a still caring nature for your brothers I have to respect. And last night you showed me that you will go far and beyond for the ones you care for. You stopped that nasty little fall from being something worse." Nicol flushed.
Dimitri this time looked down as Cody looked on shocked.
"I, Dimitri that proposal was beautiful. I've dreamt of that moment for so long but when you asked me…..I found I couldn't say yes because it'd be unfair to you. Because as I pondered upstairs over what has gone on, I realized why I couldn't say yes. Not because my heart was torn in two but because I realized what I felt for you was a crush, but Cody….I realized that my feeling for you are something deeper. I found that my feelings to you are connected strait to my instincts." Nicol flushes at that last part.
Dimitri jumps and said "Nicol are you sure?"
Nicol nodded, still not able to face them with a red face.
'It's true. That's the only reason for what happened.' Ruby explains with a nod.
'So she already chose Cody?' Rex ponders this.
"How does having her emotions towards me connect to her instincts and her choice?" Cody asks flushed.
Nicol got up as she sat next to him and said "For Chats, our instincts are a big part of ourselves and being a connector of nature they highly affect us the most. Especially in certain aspects in our lives. That includes our preference in mates." She looks down once more flushing.
"I-is that what happened between us?" Rex looks over at Ruby a bit red.
Ruby nuzzles him to answer. She felt an immediate attraction to him. And had no intentions of having another mate. Rex just rubs the back of his neck a bit red as she snuggles him.
"Wait, but why would your instincts make you chose me instead of an heir? Wouldn't that make more sense?" Cody looks confused.
"Sigh. It's true Dimitri is an heir, but he's also a big cub. Which isn't what I need in my life." Nicol shakes her head.
"It's true, I should have known that would cost me big time with you if you ever chose with your instincts." Dimitri chuckles rubbing the back of his head.
'He's a good tom. But not right for Nicol.' Ruby adds looking at her cub friend feeling sadly for him.
'I guess that makes sense.' Rex ponders trying to take this all in.
"Then why…" Cody points at himself when Nicol wraps her arms around him "Caring for cubs, leader like, puts up with my quirks, and protective. I have to say those are good qualities for a female Defenders chosen partner." She kisses his cheek lightly making him flush.
"And me?" Rex points to himself.
'Caring for cubs, leader qualities, protective, and love me for me. Those are the best qualities.' Ruby names them off smiling at him.
Rex smiles at that snuggling her close. Ruby enjoying the warmth and being in his strong yet gentle arms.
Dimitri feels his hair stand again but lets it down and says "I better get back home before the tom in me starts a fight. Don't worry it will go away once the spring fever leaves."
Dimitri chuckles and is about head off but Nicol rushes up to hug him "I'm sorry I hurt you."
He turns around, grabs her hand and kisses it saying "Mademoiselle je serai toujours votre ami affectueux."
(Translation: Miss I will always be your loving friend.)
At that he heads out.
'We'll let you two talk.' Ruby smiles at her friend holding Rex's hand.
"Have a good time." Rex heads out with her.
The two sneak off to the garden. Ruby showing him her favorite spot to hide. It's a small shed that was given to her so she can paint outside and have her own space. It has a lot of art work inside and a sofa to lay down on.
"These are amazing." Rex looks at one of the garden during a sunset. "Why didn't you enter into the contest?"
'I couldn't.' Ruby shakes her head a bit red.
"Nervous about showing your work?" Rex smiles at her softly.
Ruby nods her ears drooped a bit. Rex puts it down pecking her forehead. The two snuggling on the sofa.
Ruby leans against his chest as his arms are wrapped around her holding her close. The two just enjoying being close. Ruby drawing Rex for a bit. But soon falls asleep laying against him.
"No. Run. Mommy. Daddy." Ruby fidgets in her sleep.
"Ruby. Ruby you're having a nightmare." Rex shakes her lightly.
Ruby wakes up clinging to him crying. Him patting her head as she lets it out.
"You want to talk about it? It might help." Rex pats her head.
Ruby nods. She then tells him what happens in her nightmare.
'I… I can't ever save her.' Ruby whimpers with downed ears.
"Have you ever thought the cub is you?" Rex says gently getting her attention. "Maybe instead of running into the flames why not turn around? See what else is there. And if you're scared, I'll be right here." He pecks her forehead.
Ruby wasn't sure, but it was worth a shot. She was tired of always being unable to do anything. She lies back down with him patting her head gently. She soon drifts off to sleep.
Ruby finds herself in the fire again. She runs for the cub but is unable to get to her. She's about to panic then remembers what Rex said. She took a deep breath with closed eyes and turned around. Slowly opening them, she's amazed.
All around her the world is different. Cubs running around happily in a garden and everyone she loves is there. Including her parents.
'There you are my cub.' Her mom, a pretty white furred Chat, hugs her.
'We've been waiting my gem.' Her dad, a red eyed tabby, smiles at her.
"Mommy. Daddy." A few tears fall but with a small smile on her face.
"Sleep well Ruby." Rex whispers pecking the top of her head.
Ruby nuzzles against him. For the first time in a long time she slept peacefully on the day of the fire.
By the time she wakes up the sun is about to set. She looks surprised and a bit red about using him as a pillow all this time. Rex just smiles glad she was able to sleep peacefully.
Back at the manor…
"There you two are. You've been gone all day." Lila looks over at them with a small smile.
'Sorry.' Ruby's ears droop.
"That was my fault. She kept trying to paint me, but I couldn't sit still." Rex covers.
"It can be hard when you're not used to it." Lila chuckles. "Oh that's new. Don't tell me. Our little gem finally has a suiter." She gasps with up ears as she notices the necklace.
Ruby nods a bit red smiling.
"Who? Is he a tabby? Spotted? Where's he from? When can we meet him?" Lila goes mad.
'Actually… we want to keep quiet for a bit.' Ruby explains.
"What? Why?" Lila's ears droop.
"Now. Now. There's no need to rush." Jacob pats her shoulder. "That is as long as he doesn't make her cry and we don't smell cubs." He eyes Rex already having a good idea who it is.
'Jacob!' Ruby's ears go up red.
"I'm your father. It's my prerogative to say this as a warning." Jacob huffs a bit playfully.
Ruby's ears droop with her face red. Rex trying to fight down a blush himself.
"S-so um… what's for dinner? I'm hungry." Rex clears his throat trying to change the subject.
Meanwhile a while before….
'We'll let you two talk.' Ruby smiles at her friend holding Rex's hand.
"Have a good time." Rex heads out with her.
Once the two left Cody looked over at Nicol and said "So what do we do now? I have no idea how this works, let alone even imagined this could happen…."
He didn't get to finish as Nicol took his hand and rushed him out the door and to the practice arena once more and said "We get to know each other better and spend time doing the things we enjoy."
Nicol smiles grabbing a practice staff and throws one to Cody. He smirks at that and says "I have been wanting a rematch."
Nicol smirks and the two began. They did spar for a bit, Nicol beat him once more with a new move he had never seen "You have to teach me that." Cody chuckles.
"Chuckle. I better, I want you ready for anything." Nicol helps him up.
They soon headed for the garden and the two got to know each other better. Cody found out Nicol was very passionate about nature and its creatures and Nicol found out Cody liked to carve wood. Said it relaxed him. She smiles thinking 'Cedar really does fit him.'
They had found that besides sparring they both actually enjoyed music and even strategizing. Cody found Nicol had a very creative mind and found some of her ideas interesting for future plans, even some of her hunting techniques.
Later on they did have to head back in but not before Cody grabbed some jasmines and put them in her hair, kissing her cheek and syaign "Thank you." Nicol held her face flushing, Cody smiling glad he had been the one to surprise her this time.
Nicol looked at him and smiled "I think you're getting the hang of this." That made Cody flush and Nicol chuckle, running off. He had to laugh and shook his head. She was going to drive him mad and he couldn't wait.
Later on that night with the girls…
"So what happened between you and Rex. You two where gone for a while." Nicol smiles.
'Nothing happened. I swear.' Ruby flushes.
"Yeah, but I also I know you didn't just sketch him the whole time." Nicol shakes her head.
'I did sketch him but then I fell asleep. I had my nightmare and then…' Ruby tells her what happened.
"That is so sweet I knew he was good for you." Nicol smiles her tail swaying at the cute moment.
'It was nice to see them again if only in my dreams. And for once it wasn't in the flames.' Ruby smiles with misty eyes.
"I'm so happy for you, you finally concurred it." Nicol hugs her, happy she finally overcame it.
'What about you and Cody? What did you do all day?' Ruby rubs her eyes then looks over at her friend.
"Well…" Nicol explained about what they did and especially about the end and getting the last word.
'The poor guy.' Ruby giggles.
"I know, but I like getting the last word in." Nicol chuckles.
'He's going to go mad.' Ruby laughs with a swaying tail.
"Yeah but I think he's actually looking forward to it." Nicol smiles.
The two laugh at that and head to bed.
With the boys…
"So what happened with you two, and I mean what really happened?" Cody raised a brow.
"Well…" Rex then told him what happened.
"I'm glad to know she's getting over that. Just try to make sure no one sees you two like that." Cody raises a brow.
"Really?" Rex lifts a brow at that.
"Sorry guess it's just habit." Cody sighs.
"It's fine." Rex shakes his head. "So what happened between you two?" he looks over at him.
"Well we…" He explains the same as Nicol.
"S-she's going to drive you crazy." Rex laughs almost rolling on the floor.
"Yeah. I have a feeling she's going to try to drive me crazy, but to tell the truth I don't mind the idea. At least I've had practice with you and the rest of our batch." Cody huffs.
"Hey w-we aren't that bad." Rex calms down.
"Oh really? Remember the time you lot tried to climb down the citadel practice wall without cords?" Cody glares.
"We made it." Rex shrugs with a small smile.
Cody groans falling back on his bed. Sometimes he wonders if his brothers would be the death of him.
A week passes and the couples sneak in as many moments as possible together. Cody even got to meet Nicol's family and it looked like they had suspicions of what was going on, but they said nothing. Especially when Nicol told them about a certain rule.
Ruby brought Rex to her parents' grave. If nothing else she wanted to introduce them. Rex bringing flowers for them and promising to look after Ruby in front of the graves. She snuggles his arm at that.
It was finally time for the girls' ceremony along with many others who would be gaining the same title as them. The guys would have to wear tuxes to this with long coat tails.
"This is a bit restricting." Rex pulls on his blue shirts collar.
(Rex outfit: Navy blue button up shirt/ silver crescent moon cufflinks/ black coat tail/ black pants/ black shoes)
"I really don't see the need for tails when they already have them." Cody looks at the strange coat with raised brows. His was black as well but his shirt was a golden color and his cuffs were gold crescent moons.
"It is odd." Rex plays with his cuffs.
"Well at least it's only for a while." Cody sighs, sort of missing his armor.
"Well you boys look nice." Anakin comes in to check on them.
"Thank you sir." They nod to him.
"Let's go! Let's go!" The cubs come in dressed nice.
All of them hopping about happily, ready to go. The brothers laughing at the scene patting their heads.
With the girls back stage…
'I'm nervous.' Ruby's ears are drooped a bit playing with her skirt.
(Ruby's outfit: white lightly puffed sleeved under shirt/ sky blue sun dress/ blue ribbon wedges/ her choker/ hair in two braids with pink roses at the end of them/ light makeup)
"It is a bit daunting." Nicol's tail fidgets a bit. She'd waited for this for so long and now that it was here, she was just ready to get it over with.
(Nicol's outfit: A seafoam green dress that came above ankles/ with lighter color off the shoulder frilly sleeves/ lighter colored on the edge of the heart shaped chest, and waist ribbon./ A white pearl teardrop in the middle of the chest, and three little white pearls decorating the waist ribbon/ the edge of the dress looked like it was decorated with waves/ and black flat shoes/ Her hair in messy wavy style for the occasion.)
'I want a hug.' Ruby taps her necklace wanting Rex right now.
"You'll see him soon don't worry." Nicol pats her back.
"Hey you okay?" Rex comes over with Cody.
"Some nerves, but I think we're okay." Nicol smiles.
"I brought you something." Cody gives her two jasmine flowers.
"Oh Cody." Nicol smiles taking them and putting them in the side of her hair. Ever since their sort of first date Cody had always brought some to her.
"I thought these might help." Rex has a small bag of sugar stars.
'Thanks.' Ruby smiles hugging them close.
"Mind if I get one too." Cody smirks.
Nicol chuckles and hugs him, purring slihglty.
"Alright everyone get ready." A black and white striped man calls to everyone.
"We better head back to keep the cadets in their seats." Rex smiles at Ruby.
'Bye-bye.' Ruby waves smiling herself.
"We'll see you boys soon." Nicol gives a quick peck making Cody smile "Can't wait."
They then head out to the others. The cubs bouncing a bit in their seats for their older sister. Though they're also looking around trying to guess who she's dating. Cody fighting a chuckle as Rex tries to not go red.
"Thank you all for coming. We are here today to give these medals to are new countesses and counts." The man comes out on to the stage many clap and cheer names. "We shall now begin…" the man calls names from a list.
"Nicol Runner!" The man announces close to the end of the list.
Nicol sighs but walks out standing tall, not looking into the crowed so she doesn't get nervous.
All eight of her family members cheered making her flush but she had to admit it was nice to know they were there for her.
"Congrats." The man smiles as he places the red ribbon and silver medallion around her neck.
"Thank you." Nicol whispers, then takes her seat on the stage as she think 'I did it, I can't believe I did it.' It had been a long and hard road for her to get here, but now that she was, she felt a sense of accomplishment and pride wash over as she smiles.
"Ruby Shadow." The man announces.
"Ruby! Yay!" The cadets cheer.
'Darian and Serena would be so proud.' Jacob claps as she comes out on stage.
'Oh our cub is really growing up.' Lila removes some of the mist to her eyes.
'She looks amazing up there.' Rex smiles up at her.
"Congrats." The man places the medal around her neck.
'Thank you sir.' Ruby smiles at him before taking her seat in the back.
"Que ton coeur te guide toujours." The man turns to all of them.
(Translation: may your hearts always guide you.)
After that a few came up to speak about all of them. Mostly parents giving embarrassing stories about their kid when they were cubs. Once that is done it was time to for the buffet.
"You should be proud of Ruby. She's had a hard road getting here." Mr. Runner nods. He was a dark gray tom with a black patch on his left ear. Brown hair and brown eyes.
"You should be proud of your girl as well. They've worked hard for this." Jacob smiles over at him sipping some citer.
"Speaking of which where did they go off to?" Lila looks around for them.
"I have no idea, it's not like Nicol to do that." Mrs. Runner, a yellow tan furred female with spots, brown hair and green eyes looks around.
"Oh, do you think they snuck off to see their toms?" Lila's ears go up as her tail sways.
"Sigh, most likely." Mrs. Runner looks sadly at this, it's not that she didn't like Cody but Nicol was her little girl and the thought of her dating made her sad and worried with the situation they were in.
With the couples…
They had snuck off with a picnic basket they had made the night before. Them laughing holding hands as they get away from everyone.
They pick a clearing in the woods by the lake. Everyone would be busy at the graduation after party for a while, so they don't have to worry about anyone finding them.
They couples all sat on the blanket happily snuggled up.
"It's good to finally be alone." Cody holds Nicol close as she snuggles up purring.
"Yes it is." Rex holds Ruby close. Ruby nuzzled next to him purring lightly.
"Hey I'm hungry, let's start eating." Nicol goes for the basket brining out a few things.
The girls had made some things. Nicol had made croissant sandwiches with ham and cheese, nothing fancy but Cody liked the fluffy bread she used. Ruby made some fried chicken. Not fancy either but Rex really likes them.
They had also brought some white grape none alcoholic citer to drink. The boys enjoyed the bubbly rich taste. It was also very sweet.
Nicol then starts to think and said "So what are we going to do? You boys ship off soon. How are we all going to stay together then?" her ears go down.
'Are you staying?' Ruby looks at Rex hopeful.
The boys look down, they had thought about it and only had one idea.
"We have one idea, but we're a bit unsure about it." Cody sighs.
"Why?" They girl say in their own way.
"Cause, it would mean you coming with us." Rex sighs a bit wondering how they'll react.
The girls jump excitedly at that wanting to hear.
"Girls you have to understand our jobs are dangerous. You could also be put in danger coming with us." Cody says worried.
"And we won't be able to be with you all the time. Then there are missions where you won't be able to follow us." Rex looks at Ruby worried.
"Hey we know the risks, we wouldn't have chosen you boys unless we had taken this all in." Nicol puts a hand to Cody's heart.
'And we're not weak. We can handle this.' Ruby signs smiling at him warmly.
The two look at each other and nod.
"Alright." Rex sighs again. "Here's the plan. You come as representatives and we sneak moments when we can. Keeping our relationship secret for a year to show we can make it work." He explains.
The girls look at each other and Nicol says "That could work. We could go to represent our people and possibly help your brothers, especially since Chat wants to help you all and possible stop the abuse and continued production."
'And we can be together.' Ruby nuzzles Rex purring slightly.
The boys smile at that, war had raged for almost a year now. But they still felt that things were getting bad and were afraid of what could happen if they let this go on.
Then they heard it…
"Oh how sickeningly sweet. I wonder what Dooku would think of such a sight. Oh well, you girls need to come with me now." They all looked over to see…
"Ventress!" The boys' growl, blocking the girls.
"I'd stand down boys. You know you can't take me on." She takes her lightsabers out.
The two had to clench their teeth, they had seen many of their brothers cut down by those sabers. The girls growled at this, smelling their fear and worry.
Then Nicol brought her hands out and said "But we can."
Ventress looked confused till a large flock of birds swarmed at her. At that the boys grabbed the girls and started running.
As they get to the edge of town Ruby stops him. She looks at him worried with downed ears.
"Right, if we head in she'll attack just for the fun of it." Rex sighs heavily at that.
'But we still need to get out of here.' Rex ponders.
"Cody where is the shuttle?" Rex looks over at him.
"Right where we left it, you got a plan don't you." Cody raise a brow.
With that they head off again. Finding the shuttle where they had left it.
"Here kitty, kitty." Ventress calls as she enters the shuttle.
But as she takes a step, she hits a string trap setting three blasters off. She's able to dodge all but one that hits her shoulder.
'They're not here.' Ventress growls looking around for them furious.
As she comes out she sees a Chat ship heading off.
"This handles nice." Rex steers.
"You girls doing okay?" Cody looks over worried at them.
Ruby helps a shaken Nicol. Her friend never being on a ship before. Or at least not out of their atmosphere.
Cody frowns worriedly at that, then "We got a tail!" He shouts, spotting Ventress.
"I wish we took the starship now." Rex mutters reflecting.
"I have you now." Ventress smirks following behind them.
They play a game of cat and mouse for a bit. Sadly Ventress is the cat. Then Rex spots an asteroid field.
"Rex no…" Cody looks on wide eyed knowing what his batchmate was thinking.
"It's a Sky Stunt or blown up." Rex nudges at the black ship on their heels.
"Fine, just don't crash the ship!" Cody huffs taking the copilot seat.
"Strap in girls. This is going to get rocky." Rex makes a Kenobi pun getting everything ready.
'We're around them too much.' They both sigh internally.
The girls do as told. The two holding each other's hands as the stunt flying starts.
Rex dodges meteors and twirls around them trying to lose their Sith tail. Or at least long enough to go into hyperspace.
'Rex…' Ruby's ears droop and she pales at a large one in front of them.
"Look out!" Nicol yowls.
"Hold on!" Cody calls back, activating the hyperdrive.
"Hit it!" Rex shouts.
In seconds they're in hyperspace. Ruby found it kinda pretty, like being surrounded by shooting stars.
Nicol was in a state of shock from both fear and wonder at the stars passing by at such a speed.
A few minutes later they come out in Republic space. The guys sighing with relief at the familiar space and starship in front of them.
"Unidentified ship, you're in Republic space. State your businesses here." a familiar voice calls.
"Wolffe, it's good to hear your voice." Rex sighs with relief.
"Rex? What are you doing on that…? Did general Skywalker destroy another ship?" Wolffe calls over the coms.
"Another?" The girls say in their own way looking at one another.
"You have passengers?" Wolffe sounds surprised.
"It's a long story, do you mind if we land before explaining?" Cody sighs rubbing between his eyes.
"Docking bay two. I'll meet you there with General Plo Koon." Wolffe instructs. "I look forward to this explanation." He signs off.
"This is going to be a headache." Cody lays back in the chair. General Plo was a pleasant man but their brother Wolffe could be a hardhead at times for rules.
"Could be worse. Could be Windu." Rex looks over at his brother.
"At least we get to see Ponds then." Cody shrugs.
"Point." Rex agrees to that.
They soon docked, the guys helping the girls get off. The two shaking badly.
"Hello, my name is Jedi master Plo Koon. Are you two okay?" The squid looking man says in a gentle and kind tone.
"We had a really bumpy ride trying to escape a sith, so not all okay really." Nicol still shakes.
"A sith? Is it still trailing you?" Wolffe, in his deck gray uniform, looks at the boys.
"No. She'll be stuck for a bit." Rex smirks a bit at his fast flying.
"We left Ventress in a field of asteroids." Cody huffs.
"Come we should get these young ladies to the medbay and then you can all explain." Plo waves to them.
They all nod and head off.
