Jedi Council Forums - Bring on the Rain (Post NJO, Skywalker Family Angst, L/M)Updated 3/5 -- Emmi's post is up!!

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Author	Topic: Bring on the Rain (Post NJO, Skywalker Family Angst, L/M)Updated 3/5 -- Emmi's post is up!!
AngelQueen Registered: Mar '01	Date Posted: 3/29/03 1:29pm Subject: Bring on the Rain (Post NJO, Skywalker Family Angst, L/M)Updated 3/5 -- Emmi's post is up!! - Date Edited: 3/6/04 5:40pm (8 edits total) Edited By: Amidala_Skywalker
	NOTE TO THE READERS, OLD AND NEW: Welcome to the new story thread for Bring on the Rain, everyone! We-the authors EmilieDarklighter, RebelMom, Aanix Durray, J_K_Dart, and AngelQueen-decided that, with the Fanfiction Boards splitting, we might as well as keep up with progress and move the story here. I've taken the liberty of running a light betaing hand through each of the posts that have already been posted on the old thread, so you'll find that there have been a few slight improvements-mostly mispellings and punctuation matters. Do enjoy yourself! AQ (Who obviously has far too much time on her hands to be able to do this) Rated PG-13 for slight violence and major angst. DISCLAIMER: Star Wars is the property of The Great Flanneled One; we mean no harm an none of us are making a single credit from this humble work of fan fiction. Mara Jade-Skywalker is the creation of he-who-shall-be-hailed, The MAN of Star Wars profic, Tim Zahn. The song Bring on the Rain is the property of Jo Dee Messina and her recording label. Another day has almost come and gone I can't imagine what else could go wrong Sometimes I'd like to hide away Somewhere and lock the door A single battle lost But not the war And tomorrow's another day And I'm thirsty anyway So bring on the rain It's almost like the hard times circle round A couple drops, and they all start coming down Yeah I might feel defeated And I might hang my head I might be barely breathing but I'm not dead Because tomorrow's another day And I'm thirsty anyway So bring on the rain Yeah I'm not gonna let it get me down I'm not gonna cry And I'm not gonna lose any sleep tonight Tomorrow's another day And I am not afraid So bring on the rain Bring on the Rain Bring on the Rain Bring on the Rain Bring on the Rain Prologue Six to eight months after the defeat of the Yuzzhan Vong. The Vong's misshapen, mutilated face stared out from the shadows. Slowly the warrior crouched down, giving vent to a snarl of fury. Every vein and muscle was visible and tensed; serenely Luke brought his blade into position, prepared for the inevitable. This felt so...familiar… Luke held his blade tight, his knuckles whitening, trusting it, for in moments to come it would serve him well. He inhaled and a moment of silence fell between the two enemies. So quiet... When the warrior moved, it was with such speed that Luke had to concentrate on what he knew would happen to hold his focus. The Vong would attack his head, bringing his amphistaff up high, he knew it... wait. The Yuuzhan Vong stood at attention, the light shimmering off its scarlet body-armour; it was only inches from Luke's face, and their eyes were locked together. They were so close that Luke's intake of air tasted of the Vong's putrid breath; neither he nor the warrior dared to move, not even flinch. There was a chilling emptiness in its eyes, black and cold with death. It seemed, to Luke, that he spent an eternity in the terrible gaze of the warrior. Finally, he stepped back into a defensive position, his movements slow and controlled. An icy hand grasped his soul as the Vong collapsed to the ground in a cloud of swirling dust, it's life ending in a single terrifying moment. A death moan escaped from it's hardened lips, and he gasped as a scent of decay filled the air. Luke blinked, unsure of what he was seeing, and found himself hovering over the prostrate form, pulling his saber from the now charred flesh. It no longer resembled the living, breathing being it had once been. But I didn't… Then the body vanished, leaving nothing behind it. Where it had been, there simply wasn't. He began to wonder if the creature had ever been at all. He inhaled slowly, closing his eyes to steady himself. But he found no peace. The images of a thousand staring, frightened faces were burned into his retinas. Even as his eyes opened, he could not escape them. They were pale and lifeless faces, wailing, dead or dying. Why this, why now? Just as quickly as the images had come, they disappeared, and Luke sank into darkness. ***** He woke an instant later, but the darkness and the dead were gone. Slowly, and one by one, images began to appear above him. The faded, washed out image of Leia half-laying beside him-Am I laying down?- and her dark brown hair covering his face, materialized first. Her body shook with sobs, but Luke could not reach out to comfort her. Han appeared next, redness rimming his eyes as his hand clenched Leia's. Jacen and Jaina clung to each other, weeping, and Mara... Luke choked back a sob when he saw the death in her eyes. She did not move, did not speak, and it seemed to Luke that she did not even breathe. The spark that had been there in her jade depths for all the twenty years he'd known her was gone. This was not his Mara...surely... They were sorrowful, and so distant to him. He couldn't feel them, not even Mara. And then, suddenly, he became painfully aware of the heat growing underneath him. Powerful, unbearable heat...fiery whips that lashed at his skin, sending him into the depths of agony. And then he saw. Looking onto his own body he saw himself, lying on a funeral pyre. NO! He thought. No! The moment of insight was gone as soon as it had come, and the flames searing his body from the inside out rendered him thoughtless. Through the pain and fire he could see something, a pair of eyes... small, chocolate brown eyes pouring their own fear into him, and a yet a light comfort to dull his torture. They didn't leave him, those eyes. They remained. They helped him to breathe as his robes were consumed, leaving only his skin to be attacked, his life to be taken from him. The eyes showed themselves in a child's face, a young girl who carried many years of life in those eyes, though her body carried the weight of few. She called out to him. "Luke!" Luke began to shake violently, the flames leaving him, only to send him falling into oblivion. "Luke!" The wide-eyed girl called again, as she and her world faded away from him. "Luke!" Mara's welcome voice came from above him as she shook him out of his slumber. Luke inhaled sharply, grasping her arm ferociously to steady himself as his vision cleared and his wife's soft green eyes came into view. Mara gave him a look of concern as he sat up and they locked eyes. He looked right into her, searching for that which had not been found before, the life and acknowledgment which had been missing in his dream. "You okay, farmboy?" she asked, her eyes narrowing. Luke sighed inwardly; her spark was still there, and it still belonged to him. He rubbed his eyes a bit with his forefinger and thumb, trying to shake off his vision. "Yeah, I'm fine." He lied. "Just a restless night, that's all." She eyed him suspiciously again, and Luke knew she was trying to decide whether to call his bluff or not. He’d never been able to lie to her, but hopefully Mara would know that he didn’t want to discuss the matter of his dream. Not yet, anyway. He smiled inwardly when a mock scowl came over her face. "Yeah? Well, I'll feel sorry for you when you've got another human inside you that wants to eat at all hours of the night," Mara replied, and her tone denoted another night of midnight snacks as she lay her hand on her belly. Luke smiled freely this time, escaping thought of his vision for precious moments as he looked at his wife, and the glow that danced about her. He set his hand on Mara's stomach, where his daughter lay, warm and protected. Something reached out to him, and for precious seconds he could feel his little girl resting inside her mother, and there was no barrier between them. He could sense a warmth about her, as though she were trying to calm him as they met, trying to soothe whatever had irked him. He knew it was absurd; she had no means of knowing his pain. She could only feel, but she spoke with her feelings and he was able to leave his unease behind. "Luke?" Mara inquired, breaking the trance. He looked up. "I love you, and I would love to do this cuddling stuff all day, but your sister, Han, and the kids are all waiting for us in the living room." Luke blinked himself out of his little world. "Oh, yeah, that's today isn't it?" "That? Gee, you make it sound like some terrible obligation to have dinner with your family." Luke looked around the room for a chronometer, wondering how long he'd been asleep. He wasn't used to taking naps in the middle of the day, and it had made him loose all track of time. His eyes came to settle on a little hand coming from outside the room and around the corner, trying not to be seen. He looked at Mara and put a finger to his lips as she followed his gaze to the little hand. Ben apparently didn’t know he’d been found. Luke turned the corner. "Caughtcha!" he yelled as he drew the little eavesdropper up into his arms, tousling his hair. Ben Skywalker giggled uncontrollably as Luke shook him around in mock anger. He set the dizzy boy down, allowing Ben to gain his balance. "We're you spying on us?" Luke asked, feigning seriousness. Ben nodded, "Uh huh." Mara smiled. "I think he was. I think he should have to go without any dinner and have to sit in his room all night, with no one but Mr. Threep for company. " Ben's smile faded and he looked up at his mother, eyes wide. "No, I think I've got a better punishment.” Luke said, smirking mysteriously. Ben's eyes went wide. "I didn't mean to do it, I promise," he said, his little mouth puckering sadly. Ben was afraid of Mr. Threep. "Too late, Mommy and I are just going to have to punish you.” Luke shook his head, and then looked over to his wife. “What do you think, Mara?" "Yep, we have to." "You better run," Luke said, looking at his son and holding back a smile, "Because Darth Tickles is coming for you!" Ben jumped, as Luke pulled himself up, making his hands look like claws and putting on a ferocious grin. The little boy ran down the hall as his father pretended to race at top speed after him. Luke tackled him as they came around the corner, and laughter could be heard all through the house. "Aren't you a little old for that?" Leia asked, looking down on her brother and nephew from her seat on the couch, just left of the wrestling pair. Luke breathed heavily as he sat up a bit. "Just a little," he replied smiling. Ben, still giggling, sat up next to his father. "I'm not too old," he said with all seriousness. Han, who sat comfortably next to his wife, laughed loudly. "No you're not. Because if you're old that makes me ancient, and I sure as hell ain’t ancient yet." "Don't bet on it, Dad," Jaina laughed as Mara took a seat next to her on the couch opposite Han and Leia. "Hey, a little support from my kids, if that's not too much to ask!" Han frowned. "Sure Dad," Jacen piped in, from his perch on the armchair nearest the kitchen. "Can we just eat now?" Han asked, brushing off his children's jibes. Leia smiled. "Boy, we sure are set in our ways, aren't we, old timer?" Han turned to his wife, then to Luke, "Can I get some help here, they'll go after you next." Luke gave a smirk. "Lay off him guys, he won't remember in a little while anyway." "Thanks, Luke," Han said sarcastically, "You sure are a pal." Just then, a mechanical bell rang. "Dinner's ready," Mara said, standing up to head for the kitchen. "You cooked?" the others asked with a tone of horror in their voices. Mara turned. "No," she said, hearing the syncopated exhale of relief in the room. "That's what kitchen droids are for." "Alright, everyone to the dinning room," Luke said, standing up. "I'll help you carry the food." He said this knowing perfectly well that help eventually meant do because despite Mara's infinite abilities elsewhere, she couldn't operate, and hated, the kitchen. Everyone piled into the dining room, and as Luke was pulled into the kitchen by Ben, he reflected on his dream. A vision... He shuddered at the thought, and shut the mere premise away so that he would not think of it as he watched his family. Those in that place had been so cold. His sister, Han, the kids, Mara, Ben, the baby... he thanked the Force that they were still warm to him, that they were still there. And he silently prayed that that would never change. Slowly Luke settled down in his couch, and allowed his eyes to close once again; his mind probed out, seeking the wisdom of the Force. While his family was around him, he’d denied the reality. But the truth was, he had seen… a vision, a shadow of what was to be. Unfortunately, even Jedi Masters had difficulty reading the future, and although Luke struggled to grasp a hint, it eluded him. With a weary sigh he opened his eyes once again, the lids feeling remarkably heavy, and cast his gaze around the room. It was strange; only hours ago this had felt like home, a place that he would never leave. Now, he felt… oddly detached, almost alien, separated from the life he had once led. No, Skywalker, he chided himself, you’re brooding. It’s just your fear of that vision… The thoughts were slipping out of control again, and Luke shook his head dazedly. A glance at the timepiece showed it to be time for Holo Net News, and with a grim smile he activated the Holo Net. While Luke was semi-retired from active service in Jedi missions – to care for his family – he kept a careful eye on the Galaxy around him. The last major threat, the invasion of the Yuuzhan Vong, had come out of nowhere. If another challenge should arise, Luke had sworn to see it coming. Even Mara stayed out of the way when Luke turned on the News, knowing how he liked to meditate on what he saw. The image of a pretty young newsreader – human, but she had nothing on Mara – sprang into view. Unknown to most of the Galaxy, she was also a Jedi, and a personal friend of the Skywalker family. It helped to have friends in all places. “Today, on Holo Net News,” images flashed across the screen to accompany Tyrax’s words, and Luke felt a strange shadow of dread – as though a premonition of something to come. “Mysterious invasion strikes across the Outer Rim. Culprits are yet to be identified.” Sweet Force… the images showed villages razed to the ground, blazing, and the terrified and mutilated corpses of innocent men, women and children – hauntingly reminiscent of the faces Luke had seen in his vision. “Galactic Republic makes First Contact with previously-unknown race. The honeymoon couple, the Durrons, finally return from Naboo. And Chief of State Hyax Wilkins speaks out against the growing power of the trade unions.” Interesting news to be sure, but the first headline was the one Luke was concerned with. For somehow he knew that this was Jedi business. A moment later, though, it was not just Jedi business. It was personal. The newsreader spoke in a calm and sonorous tone. Once Tyrax had told Luke how the tone of a newsreader could be used to get a feeling of how serious the item would be, and the Jedi Master shivered. This tone fitted under ‘disaster’. But it wasn’t the words that caught Luke’s eye at first, it was the backdrop. A horizon of sand, twin suns arcing overhead… “Here on Tatooine, on the edge of the Rim, life is simple enough. Although the Yuuzhan Vong invasion came close, in truth the planet was untouched by the conflicts that have wracked the Galaxy for the past decades. The Hutts still rule over a small segment of the planet, accompanied by a self-absorbed and corrupt government. Slavery still exists, slavers flourishing in small pockets of the desert-world. “But something new has come to Tatooine, something dangerous.” The images panned out, showing – Mos Eisley, Luke knew, a place he’d rarely visited. The time he’d stayed there had been the time he’d left Tatooine. But it was changed, smoke sweeping into the heavens, fires blazing out of control. Here, the bright skies of Tatooine were clouded with the ashes of a city… A low groan of pain and horror slid out of Luke’s lips; he didn’t hear the door slide open, didn’t see Mara step in nor her eyes widen in… fear? Instead, his heart and mind were focused on this, the world he had once called home. “As yet we do not know what exactly has caused this. Residents of nearby homesteads report seeing new suns born over the Tatooine skies, glowing as fiercely as the twin suns of this bizarre planet, and projecting devastating energy upon Mos Eisley. “The Senate have issued no comments as of yet. We will keep you posted as details arise.” Without a single thought Luke deactivated the Holo Net, then keyed in a command code to open a communications channel. “Get me Chief of State Hyax Wilkins. Get me him now.” Hyax was an old friend of the Jedi, and wouldn’t object to being contacted out of the blue over a matter such as this. Seconds later the man’s lean, patrician features came into view. “Hyax, I’ve just seen about Tatooine on the Holo Net.” Force, he looked tired. Of course; the trade unions were giving him a lot of trouble, and the Holo Net had reported a First Contact – naturally Hyax would be at the forefront of the historic meeting. And naturally the amount of paperwork and bureaucracy would be massive. At the mention of Tatooine, the Chief of State sighed. “Then you know as much as we do, Master Skywalker. The reports have only just come in. One of your own Jedi was stationed on-planet, and he was the one who filed the news… When the Holo Net arrived, they found him dead.” “Who was it?” Startled, Luke glanced back at his wife; tense and seeming to blaze with anger, Mara settled at his side. “Which Jedi?” “Um… Kart Matur, apparently an Alderaani.” So Kart had died in this battle. He’d not been especially powerful in the Force, just the opposite, quite weak. But he’d always been clever, and that implied he’d been outsmarted. A dangerous foe. “Then my gut instinct was right. This is Jedi business.” “We were about to contact Master Durron and ask him to lead a party of Jedi to Tatooine…” The sudden blazing annoyance must have been visible on Luke’s face, since Hyax immediately tried to explain. “With your wife’s pregnancy, Master Skywalker, we thought you would prefer not to be troubled…” Unlike many Chiefs of State, Hyax was a kind man, and Luke understood perfectly well what had not been said. “No, you thought I’d try and lead the party myself.” And, truth be told, Luke’s instincts told him it was necessary. Was there any choice, though? Could Luke possibly leave Mara with their child due soon? The choice was one of the hardest the Jedi Master had ever faced, a question of duty over love. He felt his heart aching with a moment’s indecision. “Master Skywalker is the leader of the Jedi Council, Hyax,” Mara said, and her voice was soft and calm. As Luke glanced over at her, he saw green eyes glistening with resolve. “As this is Jedi business, he should be leading.” Luke opened his mouth to object, then shut up at his wife’s glare. For all his kindness, Hyax looked relieved – and more than a little amused. “Very well, Master Skywalker, Master Jade Skywalker. I’ll leave it to you to explain matters to Jedi Durron.” At that, he signed off, and the image shrank to nothing. Slowly, almost hesitantly, Luke turned to meet his wife’s gaze; for a moment their eyes locked. “Are you sure of this, Mara?” “Get in touch with Kyp. I recommend you, him, Corran, possibly Kam. I’d have said Jacen and Jaina, if they hadn't just set off for the Unknown Regions.” A smile quirked across Luke’s mouth; he understood the unsaid message. I’m sure, but take the best with you. Without a second’s thought he reached out and pulled his wife close, giving her a gentle kiss that she returned. “You’re shaking,” he whispered. When Mara answered her voice was far softer than ever before, touched with a weakness she rarely displayed. “I’m scared, Luke. I’m scared of losing you.” In an ideal world Luke would have reassured Mara, told her he would always be there. But somehow, through the Force or just through his own instincts, Luke feared the same. So he didn’t answer, he just held her. “But listen, Skywalker, you better not die there or I promise I’ll find your spirit and kill you again.” -----signature----- "Anakin, my allegiance is to the Republic, to democracy!" "If you're not with me, then you're my enemy." "Only a Sith deals in absolutes. I will do what I must." "You will try." Obi-Wan and Anakin
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AngelQueen Registered: Mar '01	Date Posted: 3/29/03 2:56pm Subject: RE: Bring on the Rain-A Skywalker Family Story (Post NJO, Skywalker Family Angst, L/M) REPOSTED! - Date Edited: 3/29/03 2:58pm (1 edits total) Edited By: AngelQueen
	The Jedi Temple wasn’t known for its appearance. The building, before being allocated to the Jedi Order as a place for the newly formed Council to reside, had been an apartment building. Abandoned, and in a state of pitiful disrepair. However, in the aftermath of the Vong Wars, it was the only place that the Senate could provide for the Order. They had, thankfully, promised to help fund the rehabilitation of the place. Now, merely two years later, the place had changed significantly, but there was still work to be done. Many of the floors had been rotting away and still needed replacing. Both the inside and out needed a fresh coat of paint and the hangars were still under construction and wouldn’t be done for another year at least. But considering all that has been happening in the past years, the place was definitely improving, Leia thought as she made her way towards the Council Chambers. The building had two hundred and fifty floors, most of which were in varying degrees of ongoing repair. The main floor, the hangar floor, and the Council floor were the three that had been focused on primarily when the renovations began. As she walked down the hallway of the Council level, Leia could see the most recent improvements that had been made by the workers. The old-fashioned wallpaper and markings had been removed, while a thin marble covering had been added, giving the hall a look of dignity. Most of the entire Temple was being redone according to the few remaining pictures and writings that described the Jedi Temple that stood during the Old Republic. In front of the doors that led to the chamber, Leia stopped to flash her identification at the two Jedi guarding the chamber that lay beyond. One of the guards, a young man with flaming red curly hair and a splash of freckles scattered across his nose, smiled kindly at her and gallantly opened the polished doors. Leia returned his sincere smile and walked in, mentally shaking her head. That boy had to be younger than the twins. So full of innocence, having never been faced with the atrocities of war. So similar to another face… Spotting Luke inside the Council chambers allowed Leia to dismiss her somber thoughts. His eyes locked with hers, he smiled reassuringly at her. He then returned to the conversation he was currently conducting with Lydira Ka-Durron, Kyp Durron’s new bride. The newlyweds had just returned from Naboo, where they took their honeymoon. Leia smirked slightly. That would be an interesting marriage, to say the least. Lydira was one of the few women of Troya to leave their homeworld. Most of the inhabitants of that particular world preferred to stay on the planet. Only a few, mostly their representatives to the New Republic, left their world. The people were governed by a Czarina and her Royal Council, called the Duma, which was mostly comprised of wise females and a few males. Usually, one of the members of the Duma would be selected by the body to represent their world in the New Republic Senate, after being approved by the Czarina. But, since the rise of the Jedi Order, a few of them began to come to the Order for training. Again, mostly women, but a few men as well. One of the most interesting things about the Troyan females was that they despised most men, marrying them only for the purpose of keeping the planet populated. From what Mara had told her, Lydira had been most in favor of that attitude. She’d despised almost all the males on Yavin IV, though there had been exceptions. Luke, for example, won her grudging respect. Mara had also told her that she wasn’t sure how the relationship between Lydira and Kyp had developed. To her way of thinking, Kyp was exactly the sort of man that Lydira would be totally indifferent to, just like so many other women of her world. Almost like Dathomir and Hapes, Leia noted. Her eyes wandered away from her brother and Lydira. Standing by the newly polished windows were Kyp, Kam Souslar, Kirana Ti, and Molanniko of Kashyyk. All had worried faces. At least, she thought that Molanniko’s furry face was worried. Even after years of knowing Chewie, she still hadn’t mastered the data of deciphering Wookiee expressions. Benda Jao and Chira Tan, the final two members of the Council, sat in their chairs, which were next to one another. Benda and Chira, Rodian and Twi’lek respectively, managed to hide their emotions behind expressionless masks. Most would often take this as a mark of a politician, but Leia knew better. Both species were often stereotyped as being untrustworthy. Remembering those such as Bib Fortuna, Leia could understand this, but strove not to let that cloud her judgement of Chira. The various conversations ceased when she entered the room. Everyone nodded to her and those who were not already seated did so. As protocol demanded, Leia stationed herself in the center of the circle that the Council seats created. As Luke had been designated leader of the Council, she faced him accordingly. Bowing, she began to speak. “Master Skywalker, honored Council members. I am here at the request of Chief-of-State Wilkins and the New Republic Senate. As I’m sure you are aware, there have been confirmed reports of an unknown group attacking Tatooine settlements such as Mos Eisley and Mos Espa. The portion of the Tatooine government that is not controlled by the Hutts has issued a plea for assistance to the New Republic. "Another disturbing report that has been received is that a member of the Jedi Order, Knight Kart Matur, was murdered in one of these attacks.” Leia paused for a breath. The speech she was giving was a mere formality, she knew. Luke and Mara had already informed her that the Jedi Council was planning to send a team to investigate Kart Matur’s death as well the attack on the cities of Tatooine. But going through such motions would set a good precedent for the future when the Senate and the Council dealt with such matters in mutual reliance. “It is the Senate’s request that a group of Jedi be sent to Tatooine to search out the identity of these invaders,” Leia stated with finality. For a brief moment, there was silence. Leia could feel the Council silently conferring with one another through the Force, though what they were saying exactly she could not determine. Luke spoke for the Council. “The Jedi Council agrees with the Senate’s judgement to send a team to Tatooine. A group has already been chosen and will be assembled immediately. This team will include Jedi Knights Corran Horn and Caley Bornik, and Jedi Masters Kyp Durron, Kam Souslar, Nadine Zayn, and myself.” Leia nodded her understanding. “May the Force be with you.” Luke and the other members of the Council nodded in return. “And with you, Counselor Organa Solo.” Leia turned on her heal and strode out of the chamber. Once she was a distance down the hall, she paused, noticing two droids waiting for her. See-Threepio and Artoo-Detoo stood off to the side, staying out of the way of the few that passed them. As she came closer, Leia could hear the sounds of their usual bickering. “I don’t care what you think you were told, you outdated pile of scrap metal,” Threepio retorted in his high voice. “Captain Solo told us to remain here to wait for Mistress Leia and for me-” Artoo cut him off, twittering rapidly. Threepio jerked slightly in response. “Don’t get impertinent with me, Artoo-Detoo, or I will recommend you to Master Luke as a baby-sitter to young Master Ben.” When Artoo began what sounded like a scathing retort, Leia decided that it might be in the best interests of everyone within hearing range if she intervened. Even among the Jedi, these two were famous for their arguments as well as for their achievements. “What did Han want you to tell me, Threepio,” she asked quickly. The gold droid turned, appearing as startled as a his fixed features would allow. “Oh, Mistress Leia! Good day to you. I trust your day-” Artoo blasted out a series of beeps and chirps that sounded decidedly impatient. But before Threepio could reply or continue what he was telling her, another voice called out from behind her. “Leia!” She turned to find Luke striding towards her, purpose in his step. She nodded, “Yes Luke?” “I was hoping to borrow Artoo for a few minutes. I have something I’d like him to do before I leave. The shuttle we’re taking will be ready in four hours, according to the people at the Palace Hangars.” Leia took a single deep breath, and as she did so felt a pang of fear, as though a premonition. She pushed it aside, and carried on. Now was not the time to be expressing doubts. She had long ago stopped attempting to figure out her brother’s affinity to Artoo. Perhaps it was merely that they had been through so much together, from the battle at the first Death Star all the way to the days of the recent Vong Wars. Artoo whistled a cheerful goodbye to her, his previous annoyance apparently forgotten. For a moment, Leia watched Luke and the droid move towards the elevator, then turned back to listen to what Threepio was telling her. A slight smile touched Mara’s face as she gazed out towards the heavens. It was strange: she’d always felt at peace amongst the stars, always reveled in their beauty and rejoiced in the diversity of life. Even as the Emperor’s Hand, she’d kept her sense of wonder. A memory stirred, one of herself as a youth, taking her first cosmic steps. She well remembered how impressed she’d been, how she’d been awed by the glorious and infinite depths of space… “Beautiful, isn’t it?” Mara flinched. A few decades ago -- a lifetime ago -- that lack of attention could have cost her dearly. Now’s not a good time to get sloppy, Jade, not when you’re expecting again. That said, this was a person Mara could let her guard down with: her sister-in-law. Slowly the Jedi Master turned her head to catch Leia’s gaze, and returned a warm smile. “It certainly is. You look at it and you start to realise how little an impact all those wars have made, in the grand scheme of things.” For all its power, what had the Empire truly cost the Galaxy? A few planets and stars. Not even a dozen. And the Yuuzhan Vong? Just a few more. And meanwhile the Galaxy continued to turn on its axis, and countless planets spun in never-ending orbits around innumerable stars… as if in open defiance of the warlike species that sought to master it. Slowly Leia nodded in agreement, but Mara still felt the flash of pain -- an old pain, but one that would never truly fade. The Empire had still cost her dearly, with her entire home world destroyed -- Alderran, blasted into space-dust. And when the Yuuzhan Vong were defeated, they had taken with them Anakin, Leia’s youngest son, the child she’d been most proud of… A ripple of concern swept through the Force, and Mara shivered as she gently touched her belly. Inside she sensed warmth, and life, and comfort -- a keen mind even now probing, sensitive to the Force. Again Mara shuddered; sensitive to the Force usually meant right in the firing line. How well she remembered the time after Anakin’s death, when Leia had seemed to be broken and shattered. Force forbid that I should ever have to go through that, Mara thought. Stop it, Jade! Cheer up! “Tell me about the Neutral Planet again, Leia?” A change of subject was always good, especially when Mara knew full well she was only feeling so low because of Luke’s absence -- and she knew her fears and worries were only ever a heartbeat away. It was all well and good to open up your heart and soul to another, to accept their hand in marriage; but when your chosen soulmate was Luke Skywalker, Jedi Master and founder of a new Jedi Order, it meant you never knew what was going to happen next. Never. Obviously Leia was glad for the shift in subject. “Akaara Minora was chosen by Grand Admiral Pellaeon shortly before he stood down. He chose well. It’s positioned almost on the line which divides the New Republic and Imperial Remnant territories. Look out there, do you see where the stars seem to vanish?” Mara nodded in confirmation. “That’s a black hole. It’s mass shadow is a deep one. Nothing can get within, oh, a system of Akaara Minora without dropping out of hyperspace.” “Impossible to call in an attack without it being spotted,” Mara whispered, understanding. All diplomatic parties could feel perfectly safe. “A nice touch.” As if on cue, the diplomatic ship -- a little larger than the Millennium Falcon -- performed a quick microjump, and suddenly was in-system. “Some areas are stable enough to do small jumps,” Leia added. “Just not many.” The one-time Chief of State would probably never know if Mara had heard her; for the woman’s eyes and mind were quickly focused. Mara took in what she saw with her eyes -- a red giant of a star, blazing with fury, and a circle of at least a dozen planets around it… The inner planets were only specks from this distance, although rapidly drawing nearer, and Mara could tell at a glance that they were too close. They’d have surface temperatures in the extreme -- except for the dark side, the side not facing the star, there'd be extreme cold there. Further our was a band of gas giants, massive forms with countless moons, one at least four times as large as Yavin 4. The Jedi Master reached out with the Force, curiously probing and searching, looking for any hint of life. At last she saw it -- on a moon of the sixth planet. “Akaara Minora,” she whispered. As the ship swept in, the moon grew in size. It was orbiting a small world of a deep-blue hue, but the moon itself was stained a fiery red. Iron minerals, she imagined. Slowly the moon continued to grow, until it dominated the viewscreen, and the diplomatic ship was in the atmosphere. “I’d heard Akaara Minora was inhospitable,” Mara whispered, “But whoever told me that was understating…” Dust and ash swirled through the stratosphere in dizzying, powerful storms; devastating lightning-blasts tore through the skies, and were the only hint of light at all. One flare of lightning came too close, and Mara gasped in fear, her hand automatically moving to her stomach in an instinctive move to protect the small life within her. Then she felt Leia’s hand on her shoulder; the touch was strangely soothing. “It’s alright, Mara. We’ve done this flight a million times before, I promise you.” “I know,” came the response, “But it’s times like this you feel a little more vulnerable than usual. I have a bad sense in the Force, as though something…” “Ladies and gentlemen, we are coming in to land at Stable Zone Three. Please take to your seats and harness yourselves in; the landing can be bumpy.” The captain had piped up at the wrong moment, interrupting Mara’s train of thought, and with a weary sigh she settled in one of the plush, comfortable chairs. Almost instinctively Mara’s hand reached out to her side, where Luke would have been seated; she growled quietly at herself. Luke’s not here today, Jade. Deal with it. - - - Akaara Minora was a unique planet, Leia knew. In the heart of a cosmic disturbance, it was a world of fire and fury, surface wracked by the raw forces of nature. Thunderous volcanic eruptions launched aerosols high into the stratosphere; the strange cyclonic weather conditions created massive hurricanes, which merged with the ash to create awesome ash-storms that could abrade metals within minutes. A world that was hazardous in the extreme. But at the equator, the cyclic winds could not pass, and the ash was dispersed high overhead. Though cold, at the equator the planet was stable -- although occasionally wracked by devastating earthquakes. And so the Galaxy’s population had come to Akaara Minora. The original concepts were based on the cities of Bespin, because Lando Calrissian still owned the patent to those structures he’d been contracted in. Great airborne cities hovered high above the ground at the equator, thus unharmed by the tumultuous ground-quakes; a protective dome - reinforced by force-fields - protected those in the cities from the ash and sulphur-reeking air. The structures were also stunningly beautiful, the dome specially coloured to give the heavens a dramatic spectral appearance. “Greetings, Princess,” came a voice, jolting Leia out of her thoughts. She whirled round, and her eyes widened in delight as she saw an old friend. “Tenel Ka!” The ruler of the prosperous Hapes Consortium was, as always, clad in simple lizardskin attire. She cut a strange figure for a monarch, always tensed and ready to leap into action, like a spring pressured as far as it could go and about to rebound back. Added to which, one of the woman’s arms ended in an abrupt stump; the result of a lightsaber accident while training with Jacen, Leia’s son, over a decade ago. Tenel Ka had matured into a beautiful woman, with sweeping red-brown hair, a fine figure, and eyes sparkling with wisdom and just a hint of wit. The two old friends shared a hug. “It is pleasant to see you again, Leia,” the Jedi Knight murmured. “Your experience will be valuable indeed. But I am surprised Master Skywalker did not come himself. The discovery of these ‘Virox’ may well be the most important political event since the defeat of the Yuuzhan Vong.” Leia flinched. “Luke’s away on a mission. You obviously haven’t heard about Tatooine?” Quickly she filled Tenel Ka in; the Hapan Queen frowned, obviously having a bad feeling about the mission. “I remember on one occasion rebels used a similar ruse to gain my attention and put me in place for an assassination attempt,” Tenel Ka murmured; assassination attempts were a credit a dozen in the Hapan system. “I fear the worst. Has Master Skywalker gone alone?” “No. He’s taken Kam, Kyp, Corran, and a few others with him.” Slowly the beautiful young woman nodded. “Four Jedi Masters. I am sure they can survive any assassination attempts…” But she didn’t sound too sure. Leia jerked herself out of the concerned thoughts. “You say these aliens are called the Virox? Is that plural or singular?” The only response was a simple shrug. “Both. They appear to be a most interesting species, possessing science beyond ours. They arrived on Akaara Minora without anyone knowing how.” “So they’re already here?” Tenel Ka nodded, then her eyes widened slightly. “Grand Admiral, it is a pleasure to see you again,” she declared, slipping into diplomatic mode as the Empire’s current GA - Saretti - approached. Immediately Leia stepped aside, knowing full well that the Empire was trying to win shipping rights to the Hapes Consortium, and that Saretti wouldn’t appreciate her presence. Not a decade ago, it would have been impossible to find all these disparate groups present in the same chamber. As Leia looked around she saw representatives of every Galactic power: Grand Admiral Saretti, lean but confident and with a dominating presence, had brought with him a handful of the more eminent Moffs, including the Moff of Bastion. Tenel Ka had come along with several prominent Hapan dignitaries; there were Chiss scattered around, and with a smile Leia recognised Baron Soontir Fel. Added to which, several systems -- including Mon Calamari -- had sent in separate ambassadors. Leia nodded politely to Ambassador Cilghal, a prominent Jedi Healer. “Hyax,” she called over, finally spotting the Chief of State. How well Leia knew that the duties of Chief of State included a lot of diplomatic work -- she’d held the position herself for a while, although that seemed a lifetime ago. “I see you’ve brought Deela with you!” Deela Wilkins, Hyax’s wife, wasn’t the image of loveliness, nor did she shine with glamour. What she was, however, was a skilled diplomat. Not quite Han, Leia chuckled to herself. A Chief of State with a diplomatic spouse was a plus point, but she’d rather proved it wasn’t a must! The two friends shared a brief hug. “So tell me, what do we know of them?” Hyax shrugged. “UR species. They seem to have kept themselves to themselves.” “Why the change of policy?” “We don’t know yet,” Deela commented. “We do know they seem to be peaceful -- we sent in one ambassador, and she came back singing their praises. Marvelous species by the sound of it -- We have the chance to totally transform our science.” Interesting. Very interesting indeed. It was such a shame Luke wasn’t here for this… He’d have been absolutely fascinated. Luke Skywalker was a man who delighted in the variety of the Galaxy, and the promise of yet another new race would have filled him with hope -- if only because of the possibility of a Force-sensitive within the species. He’d have been here, blue eyes wide with an almost childlike enthusiasm, spirit glowing with delight… Leia shrugged the thoughts off. “This species shows a great deal of promise,” she confirmed softly, “But we have to be on our guard. If they arrived here without us even working out how, then we can’t imagine what they might be capable of.” Hyax made as though to object, but another voice interrupted him. “Leia is right. We can’t drop our guard until we really know.” The Princess of Alderaan shared a thankful smile with her sister-in-law, who gave the Chief of State a warning glance. Mara was almost daring him to disagree; but Hyax, as always, was a diplomat. “But we’ve also got to give them a chance,” he asserted, then moved aside as a hover-droid serving drinks swept by; he took a cup of Old Alderaanian wine. Leia did the same, ignoring the pang of regret within her as she sipped this drink. A legacy of her homeworld. One of the last memories of a world long ago destroyed, ravaged by human avarice and lust for power -- and she herself, Leia Organa Solo, was another of Alderaan’s legacies. A legacy, she hoped, of wisdom and understanding. “We always have to give the unknown a chance,” Leia agreed. “But at the same time, we must be vigilant. They got here in a way we don’t understand; that means they could get more here in ways we don’t fathom too.” Hyax shrugged. “I met with their ambassador. A charming creature. I really don’t think they’re of military pursuits, Princess…” At that moment a comm-link attached to his wrist beeped, and suddenly Hyax was no more a simple man in conversation; he was a dominant power, taking over the room with his clear and confident speaking prowess. “Ladies and gentlemen, we aren’t here to socialise, it’s time we met with this new race. I ask you to welcome the Virox!” At one end of the conference room were large double-doors; these now swung open, and Leia caught her first glimpse of the aliens known as the Virox. She took in a deep breath of awe. A troop of about twelve of the things entered, forming a line. They were the most beautiful race Leia had ever seen; thin but tall, well over Leia’s own height; they obviously weren’t humanoid, nor of primate-descent, but probably insectine - yes, definitely insectine, Leia confirmed. Little could be seen of their skins, since a hard shell of chitin covered it, arcing over their bodies like a form of natural armour (at least, Leia assumed it was natural). Wicked talons grew from those hands, eight-fingered, and their heads were unlike anything the Princess had ever seen - massive compound eyes, gleaming scarlet, and a dome-like head. Leia gasped in amazement, and heard Mara murmur beneath her breath, “Beautiful, quite beautiful.” These twelve moved into two lines, facing one another and stood at either side of the double doors; both fell to their knees, bowing their heads. And then another two Virox entered -- the ones in charge, at a guess. The first one was a small thing, not a half Leia’s height, but seated on a strange circular hover-platform -- the thing looked to be made of pure gold. Those eyes flickered around the room in absolute fascination and a childish delight. Behind this first Virox came a second, this one looking lethal and powerful… If they were insectine, flight would be revered; being able to fly by machine would probably be a symbol of status. Thus the one on the hover-platform was probably the more authoritative one. It was this Virox who spoke, and her voice was as beautiful as the Viroxian appearance -- melodic, almost like birdsong. “I am Sarafena of the Virox, and this is my aide, Vgdorin. It is a pleasure to meet you all!” With that the little Virox swept outwards on her hover-platform, darting amongst the crowd, who backed away in startled awe. Only Tenel Ka didn’t react, and this obviously caught the little Virox’s attention. She made a strange little bow, her eight-fingered hand flicking to her chest. “And who are you?” “I am Tenel Ka, Jedi Knight and Queen of Hapes,” came the smooth reply. “It is an honour to meet you, friend Sarafena.” There weren’t many Tenel Ka called ‘friend’ from scratch, Leia knew, and it perhaps indicated she sensed something good and pure about this child. Strange, Leia mused, how did I know this was a female, and a child at that? She shrugged the thought off, and moved to join Tenel Ka; Mara was at her side, but the other Jedi looked strangely drained. “Mara, are you sure you’re going to be alright?” Mara’s voice was touched with weariness. “I’m going to see this through, Leia.” From tone, she was leaving no room for argument, and Leia knew better than to push it. Even when her sister-in-law had been laid ill with a devastating cellular disease, she’d refused to give in; she’d not let a little thing like a pregnancy slow her down. “A Jedi Knight,” trilled the Virox happily. “We have heard of your exploits! The Jedi, champions of the Galaxy!” “I’m surprised you heard of us, Sarafena,” Leia commented, bowing before the little Virox girl. “Since we have never heard of you.” “Oh, we’ve met before--” the little thing began, and her voice was just like a child about to tell something she wasn’t supposed to. “--But that has little concern for the present,” came the voice of the other Virox, the one Sarafena had called Vgdorin. His tone wasn’t quite so melodic, instead a little harsh and grating; when Leia looked behind her at the being, she felt a slight shudder of fear. Something about this thing spooked her… Sarafena nodded, the motion causing the little hover-chair to bob up and down as she did so. “Very true, Vgdorin, very true! I often say things that don’t matter!” But Mara shook her head, obviously disagreeing. “You’re a beautiful race. Anything about you matters to us, anything at all.” From the way Sarafena reacted, Leia had a strange feeling she was doing the human equivalent of beaming while being a little embarrassed. “If that is so,” commented Vgdorin, “Why don’t you show them the Tokens, Sarafena?” Sarafena fairly bounced up and down in excitement. “Oh, what a marvelous idea, Vgdorin! I’ll show you some of our art, some mementos of our home world! Come on!” With barely a second’s pause the little thing shot off towards the double-doors. Leia traded glances with Tenel Ka and Mara. “We’d better keep up!” Tenel Ka nodded. “This is a fact.” The three set off at a run. - - - She’s quite the hostess, Mara acknowledged with a slight grin. Somehow her instincts told her to keep a careful eye on these ‘Virox’, but if this girl was a good example of the race, well, she didn’t think there’d be much trouble. “So tell me, Sarafena, are the Virox planning to join the New Republic?” The hover-sled bobbed crazily as the Virox made odd hand-gestures -- possibly her culture’s way of saying ‘yes’. “That is why we came, Jedi! We would rather be one with you, spread our wings, than be apart!” Through the corridors of the Akaara Minora complex, the three Jedi were doing their level-best to keep up. One a Princess of Alderaan, another Queen of Hapes, and the third a former Emperor’s Hand. Mara couldn’t help a smile at the odd combination, then that smile disappeared as she felt something move in her chest. She stopped a little too quickly, and couldn’t keep back the little gasp of pain. Immediately the other two Jedi were at her side. “Mara, are you alright?” Leia asked, concern in her voice; all she got was a gaze that told her not to act concerned, they were here for a reason and Mara intended to carry out her mission. “Is something wrong? Are you in the Ailing?” The little alien Queen -- or whatever her rank -- was hovering nearby, and Mara couldn’t help but meet her eyes. Such innocence and purity… She swallowed, letting herself relax into the Force, letting it flow through her and calm her; somehow the Virox’s gaze seemed to help, too. “I’m expecting,” she explained. “It won’t be long now.” She couldn’t read Sarafena’s expression, but the voice sounded puzzled. “Expecting?” “She is due to bear a child,” Tenel Ka explained quickly. “Oh! You’re hatching!” It took all Mara’s self-control to stop herself from collapsing in laughter at the comment; for all her diplomatic training Leia couldn’t help a slight chuckle, and even Tenel Ka’s face showed a flicker of a smile. But then Sarafena was hovering level with Mara’s chest, and the Jedi just stopped herself pulling back. Strangely, the little thing began to chant - a beautifully melodious song, and although she couldn’t fathom the words, Mara felt her spirit soar. “Namorta trasda nemintaq, herio, herio, lengai; tsananda teera anvalak, amartana tramai. Scindai, scindai, tellandra huilatoi, scindai, scindai, tellandra huilatoi.” Why the words soothed her Mara couldn’t say; but they did. As her song ended, Sarafena took to the skies once again, hovering over the Jedis' heads and near the ceiling of the corridor. “That is our Song of Blessing, it means I bid that your child will grow well and will make you proud, Jedi!” A slight tear touched Mara’s face; the song had been beautiful, the meaning was something more. Your child. Luke’s too, she thought inwardly. Not just my daughter, Luke’s too. “But we are here! This is the room we were given!” A door slid open, and the three Jedi entered a typical diplomatic suite; two Virox guards stood within, one at either side of the door, and both bowed low before their ruler, eight-fingered hands tapping their chests. “Come on, come on, we have brought gifts!” The little thing soared over to a chest of what seemed to be pure gold in the center of the room. Maybe gold is common for them, Mara wondered. If so, the Galaxy will bless them… Or curse them. A massive injection of gold into the economy would devalue the metal, putting a lot of people out of work and penniless. This could take careful management, she realised, to make sure that doesn’t happen. Suddenly Mara was understanding why Hyax had been so overworked of late, why he’d been battling through so many papers; when a new race appeared on the scene, even one like the Virox, there would be so many considerations. The chest opened when Sarafena touched it, probably reacting to her DNA-print -- impressive knowledge of genetics too -- and immediately the beautiful alien drew a small disc out of it. Slowly Mara moved over to look, and saw Tenel Ka and Leia doing the same. And then the disc changed, suddenly showing a holographic image of a massive chamber. The chamber was pure gold, everything in it made of that precious metal; in the centre was what looked like a raised dais, with two more behind it, and surrounding was a structure resembling a honeycomb -- with hover-discs like Sarafena’s over each one. “This is my Palace, where I rule from,” the child explained. “It is my Hive, where I was birthed, and it is here I shall die. Those two seats behind me are where my advisors sit, including my um-- aide, Vgdorin. Unfortunately my other aide, Antras, died three moons ago in a tragic accident.” Her voice was tinged with real sadness; Antras had obviously meant a great deal to the child. “In those seats, the House of Representatives gather, from all over Virox Space, to bring their problems to us and to let us end them.” A slightly imperialistic touch, Mara figured, and cast a way glance at Leia. The same thought had obviously occurred to her friend, who was moving as though about to inquire about this; but Leia was interrupted by a shrill buzzing that made Mara's head ring. “Oh! How silly of me!” Sarafena cried out, bobbing up and down in annoyance. It had obviously been a communication. “I forgot! The meeting is about to begin! We had better be quick, or we shall miss it!” The conference had progressed well as far as Mara could see. It had been quite sometime since the motley group of eminent representatives from across the galaxy had gathered, and somehow the dynamic feel of the room hadn't altered. The constant energy was no doubt fueled by the boisterous golden child of the Virox. Sarafena held so much curiosity in her eyes, so much hope for the future, it brought joy to many a long-diluted heart in the room. Mara couldn't help but see past the little girl's outer appearance, and see the faces of her own children, of her niece and nephews, even of those long gone. She could sense such vibrancy in her, one that had pulsated down the veins of rule into her people for all that she could tell. Every little thing about everyone excited the tiny ruler beyond imagination. Every animal that was explained to her, every food she tasted, every story she heard she immersed herself in. It was like watching an infant learning a new language, with each new word discovered more were needed to complete the picture. Sarafena wanted always to know more. Mara could think of so many situations where such ardent diplomats would think of such an attitude as childish and unnecessary, but somehow the people in the room seemed to enjoy humoring her. It was amusing and light to have such a constant and strong communion between people. The only damper seemed to be the aide. Vgdorin stood stoically by the side of the little queen, and looked down on the commotion. He was the ever-watchful eye, which made the proceedings grasp onto the stale, pre-rehearsed atmosphere of old. The two companions were as night and day in Mara's mind. The elder, more refined and ridged male who towered over his fellows whether he actually had physical height or no; and the other, a kind, innocently childlike female with a desire to be a companion rather than an opponent. It was rather amusing to watch Vgdorin's face as he examined the proceedings. He seemed to find them ridiculous, a formality which he must live through but would not by any means participate in. Despite all these things which Mara found strange about the aide, she also saw the reason in his presence, why his job existed, and why Sarafena needed some guidance. He had to help direct the sometimes-aimless energy of this child, and keep her focus on target when most any child's would wane. Difficult job, no doubt, with such a rambunctious girl. Mara watched as Vgdorin leaned down to whisper a light reminder into Sarafena's insectine ears. Sarafena sat up strait after he finished, "I'm sorry, we've lost our subject, haven't we?" The room chuckled at her explanation of the predicament. "I do believe we have," replied Cilghal, her near hollow sounding voice resounding in a small laugh. "The reason for our visit was to join the New Republic, and to make friends with the surrounding territories," Sarafena said, her tone somehow believably refined. Vgdorin stepped forward, "Though a formal request has not been drafted, the Virox, under the leadership of our beloved Majestrea, have made a decision to attempt bonding with the New Republic. Similarly, we intend to establish healthy relationships with the Imperial Remnant and Jedi as well. We hope that these bonds will benefit all parties." The room seemed to nod in agreement. The resources and technology that the Virox offered would aid the galaxy immensely, especially after such a devastating period of strife. Mara's thoughts began to drift back to those times, when the Yuhzzan Vong had caused such damage to the galaxy, to its people, to her own family. She remembered the losses, they held in her mind so much more than the victories. The loss of Coruscant, the loss of Yavin IV, the loss of Anakin... So much had gone with those years. She drifted back farther, something happy: those years had also yielded Ben, they had divided and yet ultimately unified the Jedi. There was good in those years, though it in no way out-weighed the bad. Farther back... meeting Luke. Those times weren't what one might call wonderful either. She remembered how she hated him, then was ambivalent, and then hated that she loved him, until she finally gave in and left the hate bit behind. Always stubborn, aren't we, Jade, Mara though with a smirk. Mara felt an icy cold feeling tip toe up her spine for a moment. It made her uncomfortable at first, though she tried with all of herself to fight it off. She feared this cold, the frozen fingertip that slid up her back; or maybe she feared the message it held. An unnerving, imminent feeling scattered through her nerves, and she knew, only in time to fear the arrival of her confirmation. And then it hit. A sharp, last-breath exhale flew out of Mara as though someone had wrapped their hands around her lungs and squeezed the oxygen out. Her lungs felt as though they had collapsed that instant as her throbbing heart pounded holes into her ribs from the inside. She fell to the ground, her eyes closed so that she couldn't see the beings moving quickly above her. She writhed uncontrollably, coughing with what little air she'd taken in, feeling as though all her insides were trying to escape, every nerve pulsating with agony. She reached out, she searched for that ever-present feeling of her husband, which she had felt so often radiating in the Force... so comforting, calming... But now she could not reach it. She didn't understand. Even through the pain that pinned her body twitching to the ground, she was where she was supposed to be, where Luke would meet her. There was nothing... silence...quiet... Death. -----signature----- "Anakin, my allegiance is to the Republic, to democracy!" "If you're not with me, then you're my enemy." "Only a Sith deals in absolutes. I will do what I must." "You will try." Obi-Wan and Anakin
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AngelQueen Registered: Mar '01	Date Posted: 3/29/03 4:09pm Subject: RE: Bring on the Rain-A Skywalker Family Story (Post NJO, Skywalker Family Angst, L/M) REPOSTED!
	The doors of the med center swung open, admitting the hover-stretcher and several emergency medical personnel. Leia remained in the midst of them, holding onto Mara's hand. Looking down at her sister-in-law, she noticed that Mara was still unconscious. Somehow, Leia realized that the group had stopped moving, and she stood still, subconsciously squeezing Mara's cold, limp hand. "What's the situation?" Leia vaguely heard someone say. She continued to stare at Mara. It seemed so obvious what had happened. She had felt the snap of her twin bond with Luke and knew that Mara's bond with him was severed as well. The once full, warm, and light Luke place had been replaced with emptiness, cold, and darkness. Did it really mean death? Denial was easiest. So many times he'd been thought dead, only to return alive. How often had they all cheated death? At one time, there had been a bubble protecting the family. They were all safe from harm. Then Chewie was killed. Then Anakin. "Councilor Solo?" Blinking at the sound of her name, Leia tried to locate the source. "Yes?" she managed. "How far along is Mrs. Skywalker?" "She's in her third trimester. Thirty-five weeks, I think," Leia replied. "Why?" The medic didn't answer Leia, but pulled out a comlink and shouted into it. "Prep sterile room one-one-three-eight. Get a midwife droid there, stat." He dropped the comlink back into his pocket and ran a scanner over her body. "How far apart are the contractions?" Leia didn't hear the answer. She glanced down at Mara again and found herself looking into Mara's hazy green eyes. "Luke," came her gasping breath. "He's not here," Leia said, not wanting to deal with the possibility that he might never be here again. "She's com--," Mara cried, then grimaced through a hard contraction. "I know," Leia replied soothingly. "I'll be here." "I'm sorry, Councilor. You won't be allowed into the room," interrupted the medic. Leia glared at him. "Why not? She's allowed a labor coach." He shook his head. "I know, but Mrs. Skywalker has developed complications. It can't be helped." His comlink buzzed, announcing that the room was ready. Leia felt Mara's grip tighten, then loosen. Reluctantly, she released her hand and watched as the orderlies maneuvered the hover stretcher down the corridor. Her eyes never left the group until they disappeared through the doors. Closing her eyes, Leia trembled slightly and rubbed her fingers on her temples. She turned around and found a couch to sit on while she tried to collect her thoughts. Then again, her thoughts weren't too pleasant at the moment. At least the waiting room had comfortable seats. Leia leaned forward and held her head in her hands. A familiar presence caught her attention. "Auntie. Where's Mommy?" Ben Skywalker asked in a sobbing voice. Leia looked up and saw Ben standing next to Cilghal, his small hand holding her flipper. "Your sister decided to come early. She's with the medics now." A slight smile appeared on his face. "I'm glad she's coming." His smile disappeared. "Then why do I feel sad?" Leia felt her heart seize. How could she tell a four-year-old child that his father was…No, she couldn't tell him that, it wasn't true. Was it? Suddenly, the holonews blared in the background. Someone adjusted the volume. "I've got to go potty," Ben announced. Nodding, Leia stood up, but Cilghal waved her down. "I'll take him," she said. "Come on, Ben." Over the buzz of quiet conversations, Leia caught the word "…Tatooine…" Her head jerked to the holovision. "I've just received a casualty list from the government in Mos Eisley." The reporter looked down at the datapad, then her eyes widened, glistening with tears. "It's my sad duty to report that Jedi Master Luke Skywalker is presumed dead." All discussions ceased. There was no sound, but that of the news report. Images of the fighting flashed across the screen. Leia stared at them in shock. Her fingernails dug into the cushions as she prevented any outward display of emotion. Presumed dead wasn't really a confirmation. It had to be a mistake. Another woman in the waiting area began to weep. A man looked at her, confused, and then his attention went to the holoscreen. He held his head in his hands and his shoulders shook. Nearby, a couple of orderlies cried openly. "Leia?" She turned at the sound of her name and found herself looking at Corran Horn. His robes were tattered and dirty. When he pushed his hood off of his head, Leia saw several bruises on his hands. His brown and gray hair was matted with sweat and blood. His dull, weary green eyes flicked at glance at the holovision. "I see you've all ready heard the news," he said sadly, his voice breaking. Her hand went to her mouth. Corran reached into his pocket and pulled out a lightsaber, handing it to Leia. It was Luke's. "Cory!" Ben shouted as he ran into the waiting room. Cilghal saw Corran and hung her head. "It's true, then?" Corran nodded. "I came to tell Mara and Leia." He gestured to Leia who had pulled the confused Ben into her lap. "She already knew." "We'll have to wait to tell Mara. She's in labor," Leia said, her voice trembling slightly. His fists clenched and he closed his eyes against the tears. It was silent for a moment. Then Leia noticed the doctor walk to the nurses' station. Kissing Ben's forehead, she said, "You stay with Corran and Cilghal. I'm going to see how your mommy and sister are doing." As Leia walked away, Ben went over to Corran and tugged on his sleeve. Corran crouched to Ben's level. "What's going on?" he asked. Not knowing what to say, Corran hung his head in sorrow, a single tear streaking down his cheek. ** Mara reveled in the short rest break since her last contraction. The nurse beside her held out a small cup of ice chips that she eagerly took. The cold wetness offered short reprieve from her heated condition. She had lost track of time, barely remembering when she had arrived. When she had first woken up, she noticed there was an intravenous tube in her arm. At that time the nurse told her she was receiving medicine to keep her condition stable. Thoughts of why her condition was unstable returned like a flood. The conference, the icy cold feeling up her spine, her scattered feelings, all of the air squeezed out of her, gasping for breath and not finding it. Searching for Luke and finding…silence … quiet… death. Her next semi-coherent thought was in the medcenter. Asking for Luke. Vaguely, she remembered Leia promising to be with her. "Where's Leia?" she asked the nurse. The answer came from the foot of her bed. "She wasn't allowed in due to your complications. We've managed to stabilize your condition but the baby is stressed." And I'm not? Mara thought. The doctor continued speaking. "I need to check your cervix." Another contraction came, strong and hard. Mara had to consciously remember to breathe as the doctor checked her. He was lucky she didn't have her lightsaber. "Still at seven." As the pain subsided, Mara became aware of a mechanical voice opposite the flesh and blood nurse. "Since labor isn't progressing, Doctor, might I suggest you break the amniotic sack. The emergency medics indicated that it hadn't broken." He nodded and gestured to the nurse who handed him a ten-centimeter long, metal rod with a small hook on the end. After he inserted it, Mara felt a warm rush of fluid. Then she felt rising concern from the doctor and nurse. "What's wrong?" she asked. The doctor looked startled at her question. "There's merconium. It's important that we get the baby out soon." "You'll get no argument fr-" Mara's words were cut off as another contraction seized her. She clutched at the bedding and found something hard to squeeze. When the pain subsided, Mara heard a snap. Looking at her hand, she noticed that the hard thing was the droid's hand. She had broken off its fingers. The droid seemed unconcerned. ** The contractions came harder and faster after the sac was broken. Mara had little time to rest in between. When the pain became unbearable, she tried some pain suppression techniques that Luke… Oh Luke, why aren't you here? The loneliness is unbearable, Luke. I can't loose you. There was pressure on her cervix. "Eight." Mara bolted upright and glared at the doctor. "You do that again and I'll break your fingers." "I think she's in transition, Doctor," the nurse said with a slight smile. ** "Fetal heart rate is still too high." "She's at nine and a half, Doctor." "Breathe, Mara. It won't be much longer." "Baby's in position." "Neonatal unit is ready." Mara phased out the chatter, focusing on the little mind that had been calling out to her. Her daughter had no clear thoughts, only primitive feelings. Gently reaching out with the Force, Mara attempted to soothe the child. The touch she received in return was so warm, so pure, so bright; it was astonishing. She was so full of light, so like her father. Despair returned at the thought of Luke. The empty feeling, the loss. Tears threatened at the thought of her fatherless child never knowing the gentle being that gave her life. Gave life to all he touched. "Doctor, fetal heart rate has increased." When she heard the nurse, Mara knew that she had caused her daughter to panic. She attempted to touch her again, but she didn't respond. She had to get her out. It was urgent. All she needed to do was push. "Not yet, Mara." "It's time. I have to!" Mara cried. "Let me check." There was pause. "Ten! Go ahead, Mara." "Push with the contractions." "Baby's crowning." "Here she comes." "Almost there…" "Suction!" Suddenly, Mara felt something lain on her stomach. For the first time, she looked upon the physical being that was her daughter: so perfect, so tiny, so quiet. Her heart skipped a beat. Then she saw the baby's leg move, and Mara released a breath she didn't realize she had been holding. A flash of light caught her attention. The doctor had snipped the cord. Mara's tears came freely then. Luke was supposed to cut the cord. "She'll be okay, Mara. She needs to be in the incubator, but she'll be fine." Mara reached out to touch her baby, to stroke her soft silky skin. So tiny, so fragile, so perfect. Her body gave one final push, expelling the afterbirth. The nurse picked up the baby. "We'll get her cleaned up and over to neonatal for her checkup. You'll get to see her later." Panic spread throughout Mara's body at the nurse's words. What if something was wrong with her? She hadn't cried yet. Was she really alive or was it all a hallucination? A baby needed its mother. She can't be alone. Not now. "Please don't take her away from me," Mara pleaded. "Can't be alone." The nurse put a reassuring hand on Mara's shoulder. "It's only for a while and she won't be alone." But I will, Mara thought sorrowfully as the nurse disappeared from sight. The news of Luke's death had spread quickly throughout the medcenter. There wasn't a dry eye anywhere that Leia could tell. In order to prevent a stream of mourners making condolences to Leia, Corran had projected an illusion about them. To the rest of those present, the small group was just another waiting family. Ben had long since cried himself to sleep in Leia's lap. She was fairly positive that Ben knew, but she still couldn't bring herself to tell him. There had been no word from Mara's doctor as to her condition. They gave her an alert buzzer that they promised to activate when she'd be allowed to see Mara. Running her fingers through Ben's short-cropped hair, Leia thought about how much he looked like Luke. Tears welled in her eyes. It would be so easy to just let the dam break, but she had to be strong for Mara. Luke had always told her she was the strong one. Stang, she didn't even cry when Alderaan exploded in front of her face. Now, her brother was dead and she didn't want to be strong anymore. The buzzer went off. Turning his head from his downcast position, Corran offered to hold Ben. Gently lifting the child's head off of her leg, Leia moved him over to Corran. The Jedi rested his hand on Ben's shoulder. Leia stood up and glanced at Cilghal. The healer sent silent encouragement. The sound of a door opening startled Mara from her light slumber. It took a moment for her eyes to adjust, but she didn't need to see to know that it was Leia. From the turbulent emotions swirling around her sister-in-law, Mara knew Leia had something to say, but was reluctant to say it. Mara turned her head away -- she had a pretty good idea what was bothering Leia. Not wanting to hear it, Mara said, "She's in the neonatal unit. She's small and had some complications but they say she'll be fine after some treatment." "That's good to hear," Leia replied slowly from the side of the bed. Mara continued talking, not allowing Leia a chance to speak. "I'm sure they'll let you see her. Ben, too." Leia placed her hand on Mara's. "Stop please, Mara. I have..." She began to sob but soon gathered her composure. "I have to tell you." She looked into Mara's eyes. "Corran is here. He confirmed what was announced on the holonet." Leia took a deep breath. "Luke is dead." Mara screamed in denial and turned her head away. "No!" Leia's strength faltered and she began to weep. Taking her hand from Mara's, Leia put something else in its place. Mara's tears flowed freely when she felt the familiar grip of Luke's lightsaber. Denial was no longer an option. The silence was forever. She was alone. Yet, not completely. "Where's Ben?" Sniffling, Leia replied, "He's with Corran." Mara used both hands on Luke's lightsaber, feeling every centimeter of the surface, every crevice and dent. "Please bring him to me." Nodding, Leia wiped her eyes, and then gave Mara a hug. Mara watched her leave, her eyes returning to Luke's saber. Her thumb ran over the activation switch and the beautiful green blade sprang to life. Why didn't you listen to me, Skywalker? I told you not to die. With an anguished cry, she flung the saber against the wall. It clattered and fell to the floor. Bursting into tears, she threw her body back against the bed and beat her fist into the pillow, before curling up into a fetal position. Why didn't you listen to me? Why? He felt so empty. Ben Skywalker watched his distraught mother as she cradled his new baby sister in her arms. She was sick, he knew he could feel it. It felt like his arms, and legs, and head, and everything all hurt at once. He didn’t like when it hurt, his little sister shouldn’t have to hurt, she was brand new. She should feel happy. He wanted her to smile, he wanted his Mommy to smile too. But nobody smiled anymore, they hadn’t for a long time, it seemed. A very long time. That was because they felt it too, the empty. Auntie Leia, Jacen, Jaina, Mommy, even Uncle Han –they all felt it. Maybe it wasn’t feeling at all, sometimes it felt to Ben like it was having no feeling, that’s what the empty was: no feeling where all the warmth and happiness had been. Ben knew why the empty was there, where his Daddy used to be, the empty was there because his Daddy wasn’t, because Daddy had gone away...his Daddy had left them. Ben hadn’t believed Auntie Leia when she said that Daddy was gone from here, but that he’d hadn’t really left, he had just gone to join the Force. He hadn’t believed when the empty first came, after he’d gotten hurt so bad, right in his heart. But now they were standing in front of a fire. He’d heard about these fires, these were the fires that the Jedi built when a friend died, when another Jedi died. His Daddy had been a Jedi, but Ben couldn’t believe that he was dead. He didn’t understand dead. Dead was supposed to be when someone left to join the Force and never came back. Then why did he feel like a part of him was gone too? Could a part of someone die? A part of him had gone away and wasn’t coming back. So it must have died. The empty killed it. The empty killed the place where his Daddy used to be. That’s why they were at the fire, they were burning his Daddy’s things, because he wasn’t coming back to get them. There were so many people watching the fire. Not jut his family, or friends, not just the Jedi; but bunches and bunches, all over, he could see them wherever he looked. They were all sad, he could feel all their hurt, in the empty. He looked at his Mommy; she had tears in her eyes. He hated to see her cry. They were all crying, his whole family, and all the beings from all over the galaxy as they watched the fire burn. His Daddy was gone. His Daddy had left them all, he had made everyone sad, and he had made Ben angry. Ben was angry that there would be no more rough housing in the living room, no more nighttime stories about adventures from before his birth, no more family cuddles. No more warmth in that place in his heart. He hated what was there, he hated the empty, and he hated his Daddy for leaving and never coming back–for dying. He hated that his Daddy had left him with nothing in that place in his heart. Ben clenched his little fist... He felt so empty. Within the bowels of the Jedi Temple, there was a small, dimly lit room. It was on one of the lower levels, where there had only been a few repairs made, enough for people to walk through it without being at hazard. The room itself smelled vaguely of cigarra smoke, as if it had once been used to allow people to smoke in private. And though the room was small, it was large enough to fit a table, ten chairs, and ten bodies in it. At the head of the table sat the acting head of the Jedi Council, Lydira Ka-Durron. Until the Jedi could elect someone else to lead the Council, they would be doing without the usual harmony that they had been accustomed to when Master Skywalker had been with them. Lydira gazed around the table at the remaining Council Members, and those who had gone on the mission to Tatooine. None of them had come back unscathed. And one had not returned at all. She had also noted that every one of them was wearing their own color or symbol of mourning. She herself was wearing a set of jet-black robes instead of her usual tan or dark brown. She’d even paused today to weave a black ribbon into her thick black tresses. Taking deep breath, she turned to Jedi Master Nadine Zayn. The woman’s arm was in a sling, she had a lightweight splint on her ankle, and her ribs were no doubt bound tightly. “Master Nadine, I must ask you to explain what happened during your days on Tatooine. If you could, please focus on the events leading to Master Skywalker’s… demise.” Nadine straightened in her seat as much as she could. Her brown eyes swept over her fellow Jedi. Corran sat across from her, his face a mask of sadness, pain, and guilt. Every member of the team had suffered greatly, but none more than him. Lowering her eyes, she began. ----- It had taken three days to get to Tatooine and the ride had been a quiet one. Master Skywalker had served as a pilot, with Knight Bornik acting as his co-pilot. Masters Durron and Souslar repeatedly went over the scant information that they’d been given before leaving on the mission. Knight Horn used remotes to practice his saber techniques, and I meditated. I’d been filled with disquiet ever since we’d left the Temple and I spent the entire time asking the Force to explain this to me. The Force, however, provided no answers. I was in the cockpit with Master Skywalker and Knight Bornik when we came out of hyperspace. We were almost immediately contacted by a liaison of the provisional government, which was based in Mos Eisley. “Master Jedi,” the liaison said nervously. “We must ask you not to land in Mos Eisley.” Knight Bornik and I exchanged glances, but Master Skywalker didn’t even bat an eye. Instead, he calmly inquired, “Why is that, sir?” The liaison, a little man in his mid-thirties with beady blue-black eyes, replied, “I’m afraid that the Hutts learned that the provisional government had requested your assistance, and they are not pleased with that piece of information. And although their influence is not what it once was, their money still calls to many people. We believe that there are several assassins and bounty hunters here in Mos Eisley that are waiting for you to land.” Master Skywalker nodded. “Very well, sir. We shall contact you after we land. I have a place in mind.” “Very good, Master Jedi. The fighting has all but stopped here in Mos Eisley, but there is still much happening in the other settlements. I am transmitting the information to you now.” Once the transfer was complete, Master Skywalker thanked him and cut the channel. He turned to me and asked, “Nadine, inform Corran, Kam, and Kyp that we have the information ready for download.” “Yes, Master Skywalker,” I acknowledged. I turned on my heal and left the cockpit. I quickly explained the situation to the others as we strapped ourselves in for the landing. We quickly gathered the few things we’d brought with us and opened the cockpit. And immediately we were hit by a blast of heat that made even Master Skywalker pause, and he was a native. As the rest of us paused to observe our surroundings, he said, “I almost forget what it’s like when you first step off a ship. Like you’re being hit right in the gut.” We smiled slightly. We all knew he’d been slightly conflicted about leaving with his wife so close to giving birth. It was good to see that he still had his sense of humor. Knight Bornik stepped over to the hull of the ship, where a small selection of buttons had been placed. Her slim hands flew over them, inputting the codes. At the moment of conformation, two large compartments opened, revealing two speeders. State of the art technology created by the Calamari for the use of the Jedi only. Everyone gathered around Master Skywalker as we went through the information that the liaison had sent us. Eventually we determined that we would have to take two cities at a time. Though Mos Eisley appeared to have been left alone, there were still cities under siege. And from some of the pictures, there wasn’t much left of the city-port anyway. “Kam, you, Kyp, and Caley take Mos Espa. The provisional government lost contact with them just yesterday, but the last reports they received indicated that the city was taking a real beating. Do what you can to protect the people there, and while you are doing that, try and find out any information you can about whom we are up against. While you are there, Nadine, Corran and I will set out for Mos Eisaa. Though the provisional government hasn’t lost contact with them, whoever these invaders are, they’re slowly burning the city to the ground. We’ll meet back here in one week.” The three Jedi bowed to us, got onto the speeder, and set out across the desert in the direction of Mos Espa. The rest of us did the same. As we raced across the sand, I couldn’t help but glance up at the sky. There was nothing visible yet, but I could feel my feelings of apprehension growing. Three hours later, we arrived at the outskirts of Mos Eisaa. Or, at least, what used to be the outskirts. The buildings were merely burnt out husks of what they used to be. To my horror, I even noticed the smoldering remains of bodies laying scattered on the ground. I was momentarily distracted when I felt a flash of pain coming from Master Skywalker. His face, of course, revealed nothing, but his silent anguish cut through his normally calm presence. These were his people, lying on the desert floor, slaughtered like animals. We delved deeper into the city until we found a group of men, weapons of all sorts in their hands. Their faces were etched with fear, but in their eyes I could see determination. They would defend their home at all costs. Master Skywalker, who had been piloting the speeder, pulled the vehicle to a stop. Slowly, as to not alarm the people before us, we moved to face them, our hands outstretched to show them that we were unarmed. One of the men, a gentleman in his fifties, called out to us harshly, “Who are you?” Master Skywalker promptly identified us. “I am Jedi Master Luke Skywalker. These are my colleagues, Jed Master Nadine Zayn and Jedi Knight Corran Horn. We’ve come to help you.” The group glanced at one another; we could hear them talking quietly amongst themselves. Everyone seemed to radiate a mixture of hope and disbelief. The man who had spoken seemed to have been the designated leader, for he lowered his weapon and motioned for the others to do the same. Warily, he stepped towards us. Master Skywalker met him half way, holding his hand out. The man shook it and suddenly smiled slightly. A tired, bitter smile. “We’re glad you’re here, Skywalker. We had just about lost hope that someone would come to help us. The people in Mos Eisley said that help was coming, but you know how unreliable they can be. I’m Jaqu Tinod, by the way. I’ve sort of been made the unofficial leader around here.” Master Skywalker nodded. “Indeed and it is a pleasure to meet you. I only wish it could have been under better circumstances. What has been happening?” Jaqu’s smile faded into a mask of solemnity. At once he explained the situation. “They came out of no where. Ships put together with technology we’ve never even seen before. Their power seems to be unlimited and they take no hostages.” “We noticed,” Knight Horn interjected, his face contorted with disgust. Jaqu nodded and continued. “They’ve been trying to burn the city from the outside in. The citizens have moved to the center of the city and we’ve been attempting to establish a perimeter.” I then spoke up. “We can help with that. Each of us has had combat experience and knowledge of tactics.” The older man nodded to me, then began to bark orders and divide his people into groups that would be put under our direction. For the next several days, we diverted many attacks. The losses on both sides were grievous, but no more civilians were killed. In between attacks, Master Skywalker, Knight Horn, and I discussed what we’d learned about this enemy. One thing we’d learned early on was that the people seemed to have given them a name: Za’zens’za. “It means ‘Bringers of Death’ in Huttese,” Master Skywalker had explained to us. His eyes had seemed to plant themselves in the distance as he said this. Neither Knight Horn or I asked him what seemed to be bothering him. If he felt that it related to the mission, he would tell us in good time. We’d learned that the Za’zens’za were not using any kind of particle beam that we were familiar with. Whatever their weapons were, anything they touched caught on fire. Lethal tactics on a desert world like Tatooine. There was hardly enough water for the people to drink, much less put out raging infernos. On the day that we were to le