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Author	Topic: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Epi: 8/14/08
iamobiwan1970 Registered: Aug '05	Date Posted: 5/14 6:14pm Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 6: 5
	Wow! things did turn out for the best for Xander! I just love how the IK formed and how they work to protect the Fels. My god! You killed off Valin! Geez, you are brutal, but this is the same writer who killed Zekk and Wedge! And soon Hanb dies, but at least he's ancient by this point! I had to really think of all the family ties as I read this and the info at the end helped. It's fun to speculate in tat inbetween time . I love it! -----signature----- Whatever tomorrow brings, I'll be there, with open arms and open eyes.
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jadesabre75 Registered: Nov '07	Date Posted: 5/14 7:23pm Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 6: 5
	YES! Awesome freaking chapter! Glad Xander found someone who appreciates him. Just hope he makes it back ok. Great job! -----signature----- Stories are in my bio! Have at it! "Writers block is when your characters get tired of everything you do to them and go on strike." Lucky Member of the Jagateers: Jagateer of the Imperial Red Swim Trunks
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PHGS_Weyr Registered: Apr '06	Date Posted: 5/16 7:29am Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 6: 5
	Great chapter filled with super cool awesomeness! Thanks for the PM! PHGS Weyr -----signature----- Fics in Bio! No longer on Hiatus "Facts, exact numbers, reassurance... a Jedi seeks not these things." - Kyp Durron Padawan to Flowerlady!
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SWpants666 Registered: Oct '04	Date Posted: 5/16 9:58am Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 6: 5
	He irreverently wondered how long Filip Darco would be able to resist Mara’s charm. Xander knew the younger man had had his eye on her for along time. But then who doesn’t, Xander shook his head with the thought Oh poor Xander. hugs him He wanted to be alone, but she was the one person he could find comfort in. She was the only person whom he could confide in At first I wanted him with Mara, simply because the love they shared as kids was so pure and innocent. But Xander is such a great guy, and I hope he can find comfort in Gena. Who, by the way, has a VERY AWESOME name “She’s always been a spoiled brat. And you know it. I may love my cousin, but she will never be worthy of your devotion.” Aw, hell no. She definitely doesn’t. With a seriousness that was so typical of Valin Horn’s youngest daughter, she said, “There are establishments that could remedy that Oh she is so great, That’s hilarious “I could find you anywhere.” Then she added sardonically, “It’s called the Force. You know that energy field that binds the galaxy together and some of us can sense and bend to our will. Oh, wait, I forgot you slept through that class.” Psh, crazy Jedi humor Suddenly, he was taken by just how beautiful she was. Then he realized that was the first time he had ever really noticed. keep thinking it! Only you know, not drunk, I like to know people are sincere & not just in a drunken state of mind While it had been under Imperial rule for the last year of the war, the population had benefited from the occupation and its leaders quickly realized Jagged Fel’s Empire was far better than the shambles Jacen Solo had made out of the Galactic Alliance. The fish are smart And I feel bad for Zekk, losing his wife like that Gena sent to him her reassurance that anyone who’d try to do anything here had to be crazy. Security was so high that only those with the highest rankings were even allowed within the flyzone of the auditorium, let alone inside the auditorium. However, that somehow didn’t make him feel any less uneasy. Something was going to happen tonight, he could feel it. Of course. Not only because it’s a SW fic but because people can get through the tightest security if they want to I think I’ve proved these naysayers wrong.” Yeah he did! Because he’s Jagged Fel! And I loved the bit about his humor. Jag’s got humor and you show it well Over the years he often wanted to take their relationship to the next level, but didn’t want to destroy their friendship by complicating it. But mostly he didn’t, because he wasn’t sure if what he felt for her was more than a deep loving friendship. He is SUCH a smart guy! And Mara totally didn’t deserve him. I love him and how he’s really thought about the situation and wants to be sure of his feelings before doing anything. “Xander, I understand your pain. I can feel it. But barging in on the Royal family and demanding that Prince Mohrgan is your child isn’t going to make it better.” oh that is so true. Gena is great, and extremely smart. He paused; there was no need to elaborate more on Han Solo’s deteriorating health. It was speculated that he would be dead within weeks Oh no, poor Han At the same instant that Karl, Jessi, Zekk and Jag leaped away from the dais, the entire thing went up in a huge explosion which would have taken out most of the auditorium as well— If it wasn’t being drawn back in on itself. Odd about that last bit. But thank the Force for Jedi Xander didn’t know what to do except hold her as her grief exploded into the Force as she wailed— “Valin!” Noo! Poor Valin! It was in that second he realized that he loved her more than he ever thought possible. He even loved her more than he had ever loved Mara in that heartbeat. Aw, yay. Gena totally deserves his love. I’m glad she’s okay She grinned mischievously as she commented, “Yes, you can. From some of the reports I’ve heard you’re pretty good at it.” oh that’s hilarious I’m very glad they admitted their love for each other. Makes me so happy After moving to Serenno as Mara’s guard, Filip quickly found and fell hopelessly in love with a local woman who worked in the government of Serenno. After a whirlwind romance of only five months the two eloped and six months later had two girls and a boy. Though, only his son inherited his Force-sensitivity. he didn’t fall for Mara’s charms! hehe. Triplets! That’s great The name of Xander & Gena’s baby is gorgeous. Very great You use a lot of things from the comics and even though I’ve only ever read three or four, none of which are recent in the slightest, you’ve got me very interested in them. And I enjoy the story very much anyway. Great update -----signature----- ~MTFBWY~ **Holder of the Straw of Disaster** All I want is to be in the light
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SITH_MAYO Registered: Sep '05	Date Posted: 5/18 12:17pm Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 6: 5
	Thanks for the PM and this ace post! I've had a bad day and this really cheered me up. I love that Xander was able to find someone who would love him totally! This couple were so cool to read. Love them! It was sad to hear about Valin!!! Poor Jys. But I'm glad this couple made it. Then Xander met her eyes again and hoarsely whispered, “I never will. You have always been the true queen of my heart, Gena. I love you.” Perfect ending.. as always FL. Thanks! -----signature----- Fanfics in bio.. Fan of: K/J, L/M, J/TK, Benella and wild parties! "SPACE WEATHER!!!" ~ Blue Harvest Me: I'm hot, are you hot? [thinking temperature..] My Mum: . . Yeah, I always look this good...
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padawanlost Registered: Apr '06	Date Posted: 5/20 3:06pm Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 6: 5
	Wow, Sara, that was a lot of loose ends to tie up. So basically all the Imperial Knights we see in Legacy are related. If I'm reading that right, its just the Draco's who are unconnected, which makes it all good if Sia gets together with her own Draco. I was surprised to see Mara's son is Morghan. I feel bad for him, knowing what is to happen, and for her though she evidently won't be around to see it. For a moment I thought we'd been psychically sharing plot bunnies, but neither Zekk or Jag were hurt in the attack. It looked like all of a sudden Mara was going to be the Empress. Don't like to hear Han is unwell one bit, but he would be pretty old at this point, so at least he had a good life. Hopefully we'll see more of Jaina and the Jedi on Ossus soon, elaborating on the connections between the Jedi, the IK, and the greater Skywalker-Solo-Fel-Horn family (wow that's a mouthful). Great job as always ~alex -----signature----- e-married to rebel_cheese , so read his stuff or else Padawan of NYCitygurl Proud member of Charon Force. Check out our NJO AU: http://boards.theforce.net/beyond_the_saga/b10477/27537567/p1/?23
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Flowerlady Registered: Dec '05	Date Posted: 6/12 6:59am Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 6: 5
	canadianjedimama Dude....you killed Valin Horn! Yes I did...and it was hard to do too. Oh what a tangled web you weave, darling Sara. But so entertaining. HEHE...I love those tangled webs. Maybe I'm part spider... You know I've been pondering the fact that the Imperial Knights are loyal to the Imperial Family personally because the core group of them is made up of people who are in fact quite close (friendship or familywise) to the royal family. Glad to see I'm not the only one thinking that... It is something to really consider. Besides it's fun intertwining all the characters into one big, very big family... Poor Xander. Seeing his little boy but not being able to be his daddy...sigh Yes that isn't good, but I'm sure Mohrgan won't be fooled forever. It is very hard to fool a Force-sensitive. Good thing him and Gena are going to make up for it. Yep... Loved it! Thanks!!! Ceillean Oh, yay. I'm happy that everything turned out for the better for Xander. Mara was no good for him. I wonder if he'll ever get to meet his first son, though?` Gena is much better for Xander. As for Mohrgan, I'm sure he will realize Xander is his real father eventually. But...Valin... It was hard to do, but I just had to.... Great update! Thanks!! ccp My but you are spinning a marvelous web. As I said to Cyn...I'm part spider... Great chapter I liked seeing Xander moving on with his life. Great chapter. I'm glad that you liked...Thanks for reading!! iamobiwan1970 Wow! things did turn out for the best for Xander! I just love how the IK formed and how they work to protect the Fels. Yep they did turn out better this way I think... My god! You killed off Valin! Geez, you are brutal, but this is the same writer who killed Zekk and Wedge! And soon Hanb dies, but at least he's ancient by this point! Yes I killed Valin...hehe..no one is safe with me... I had to really think of all the family ties as I read this and the info at the end helped. It's fun to speculate in tat inbetween time . Yes, I am quite intertwining the verious characters. It's fun to do. And I love to speculate. I love it! Thanks!! jadesabre75 YES! Awesome freaking chapter! Glad Xander found someone who appreciates him. Just hope he makes it back ok. I'm glad that you liked it... Great job! Thanks!!! Oh, I promise to finally catch up on your story too...I have the last two chapters to read... PHGS_Weyr Great chapter filled with super cool awesomeness! Thanks for the PM! Thanks and you're welcome!! SWpants666 He irreverently wondered how long Filip Darco would be able to resist Mara’s charm. Xander knew the younger man had had his eye on her for along time. But then who doesn’t, Xander shook his head with the thought Oh poor Xander. hugs him He does need a hug, doen't he? He wanted to be alone, but she was the one person he could find comfort in. She was the only person whom he could confide in At first I wanted him with Mara, simply because the love they shared as kids was so pure and innocent. But Xander is such a great guy, and I hope he can find comfort in Gena. Who, by the way, has a VERY AWESOME name Gena is perfect for him and they will be very happy together. I'm glad that you like her name. When I first announced it in the Author Notes at the end of TPoD someone said that it was a very odd name. I wonder if they realized that it's the feminine version of Wedge or that she was named for her grandfather. Besides Wedgena reminds me of Eugenia “She’s always been a spoiled brat. And you know it. I may love my cousin, but she will never be worthy of your devotion.” Aw, hell no. She definitely doesn’t. With a seriousness that was so typical of Valin Horn’s youngest daughter, she said, “There are establishments that could remedy that Oh she is so great, That’s hilarious That's Gena for you.... “I could find you anywhere.” Then she added sardonically, “It’s called the Force. You know that energy field that binds the galaxy together and some of us can sense and bend to our will. Oh, wait, I forgot you slept through that class.” Psh, crazy Jedi humor Suddenly, he was taken by just how beautiful she was. Then he realized that was the first time he had ever really noticed. keep thinking it! Only you know, not drunk, I like to know people are sincere & not just in a drunken state of mind Oh he will..and he won't be drunk either... While it had been under Imperial rule for the last year of the war, the population had benefited from the occupation and its leaders quickly realized Jagged Fel’s Empire was far better than the shambles Jacen Solo had made out of the Galactic Alliance. The fish are smart And I feel bad for Zekk, losing his wife like that Yep the fish are... and it was a terrible and something Zekk took 16 years to get over... Gena sent to him her reassurance that anyone who’d try to do anything here had to be crazy. Security was so high that only those with the highest rankings were even allowed within the flyzone of the auditorium, let alone inside the auditorium. However, that somehow didn’t make him feel any less uneasy. Something was going to happen tonight, he could feel it. Of course. Not only because it’s a SW fic but because people can get through the tightest security if they want to And it helps if they are Sith... I think I’ve proved these naysayers wrong.” Yeah he did! Because he’s Jagged Fel! And I loved the bit about his humor. Jag’s got humor and you show it well I love Jag...Just love him...I can't believe that I once said that I hated him..psht...shame on me... Over the years he often wanted to take their relationship to the next level, but didn’t want to destroy their friendship by complicating it. But mostly he didn’t, because he wasn’t sure if what he felt for her was more than a deep loving friendship. He is SUCH a smart guy! And Mara totally didn’t deserve him. I love him and how he’s really thought about the situation and wants to be sure of his feelings before doing anything. Well, he dosn't want to destroy the wonderful friendship he has with her. She's his best friend and if things go sour who would he ever turn to...or who would she have to turn to. It is a delicate situation...and he's smart to tread lightly “Xander, I understand your pain. I can feel it. But barging in on the Royal family and demanding that Prince Mohrgan is your child isn’t going to make it better.” oh that is so true. Gena is great, and extremely smart. I'm glad that you like her... He paused; there was no need to elaborate more on Han Solo’s deteriorating health. It was speculated that he would be dead within weeks Oh no, poor Han Yes, first Soontir and then Han...Sadly. But they are nearly, if not over a 100 years old by this point. At the same instant that Karl, Jessi, Zekk and Jag leaped away from the dais, the entire thing went up in a huge explosion which would have taken out most of the auditorium as well— If it wasn’t being drawn back in on itself. Odd about that last bit. But thank the Force for Jedi Yes, especially Jedi who can adsorb large amounts of energy... Xander didn’t know what to do except hold her as her grief exploded into the Force as she wailed— “Valin!” Noo! Poor Valin! I agree... It was in that second he realized that he loved her more than he ever thought possible. He even loved her more than he had ever loved Mara in that heartbeat. Aw, yay. Gena totally deserves his love. I’m glad she’s okay She's fine and now that they have admitted their love, she's even better... She grinned mischievously as she commented, “Yes, you can. From some of the reports I’ve heard you’re pretty good at it.” oh that’s hilarious {sniggeres} I’m very glad they admitted their love for each other. Makes me so happy After moving to Serenno as Mara’s guard, Filip quickly found and fell hopelessly in love with a local woman who worked in the government of Serenno. After a whirlwind romance of only five months the two eloped and six months later had two girls and a boy. Though, only his son inherited his Force-sensitivity. he didn’t fall for Mara’s charms! hehe. Triplets! That’s great Yep he avoided her charms...quite nicely. I think. The name of Xander & Gena’s baby is gorgeous. Very great Thanks...I thought it a nice tribute to Valin. You use a lot of things from the comics and even though I’ve only ever read three or four, none of which are recent in the slightest, you’ve got me very interested in them. And I enjoy the story very much anyway. Thanks...I've only read the graphic novels and so I have to wait between each one. I can't wait for the next one to come out in a few weeks. I find the whole story of legacy very interesting. And it's been fun trying to bridge my version of LotF with the canon of Legacy... Great update Thanks... SITH_MAYO Thanks for the PM and this ace post! You're welcome and thanks... I've had a bad day and this really cheered me up. I love that Xander was able to find someone who would love him totally! This couple were so cool to read. Love them! I hate bad days, glad that I could help. They were fun to come up with.. It was sad to hear about Valin!!! Poor Jys. But I'm glad this couple made it. Ella will be fine. But it was hard to lose her father. I also feel bad for Syal losing Valin like that and having to witness it. I feel like I never told enough of their love story in TPoD... Then Xander met her eyes again and hoarsely whispered, “I never will. You have always been the true queen of my heart, Gena. I love you.” Perfect ending.. as always FL. Thanks .... Thanks! padawanlost Wow, Sara, that was a lot of loose ends to tie up. So basically all the Imperial Knights we see in Legacy are related. If I'm reading that right, its just the Draco's who are unconnected, which makes it all good if Sia gets together with her own Draco. Yes there were a lot of loose ends. The next part ties up the rest of the Imperial side anyway. And it does seem that I've intertwined everyone... I was surprised to see Mara's son is Morghan. I feel bad for him, knowing what is to happen, and for her though she evidently won't be around to see it. That was to be one of the unexpected twists in this story that makes it its own tale even though it is buffered by actuall canon on either side of it... For a moment I thought we'd been psychically sharing plot bunnies, but neither Zekk or Jag were hurt in the attack. It looked like all of a sudden Mara was going to be the Empress. You would like Mara to be the Empress...wouldn't you... but no she eventually fades off and lives her life as the Countess of Serenno and as its Moff. Don't like to hear Han is unwell one bit, but he would be pretty old at this point, so at least he had a good life. Hopefully we'll see more of Jaina and the Jedi on Ossus soon, elaborating on the connections between the Jedi, the IK, and the greater Skywalker-Solo-Fel-Horn family (wow that's a mouthful). Yes, he is quite old. Well, as for Jaina on Ossus, I'm sorry but we won't see that. But we will complete the Imperial side of this story in the next viggy. And the clan I'm creating here is a mouthful, especially if you add in the OC Kriegs and you will see who else in the next three vigs... Great job as always Thanks, Alex.... FL -----signature----- I used to dream of Kyp or Jag, now it's Edward Cullen...I blame Cyn and Saber.. Master to DanaeMariSkywalker, JediMasterArmada and PHGS_Weyr
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Flowerlady Registered: Dec '05	Date Posted: 6/12 8:15am Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 6: 5 - Date Edited: 6/12 9:01am (2 edits total) Edited By: Flowerlady
	Author's Note: This is the conclusion to the Imperial part of this story. Vigs 9 and 10 will be about Zane and the Jedi. And Vig 11 which will actually be an epilogue to the entire series will be my ending to Legacy as a whole... But now for this post... it is quite long...just warning you. ~~Vignette 8~~ Finding Love Again Imperial Palace, Bastion 82 ABY As I sit in the formflow chair near the bed where my wife lay, I stare down into the face of the tiny infant in my arms. I’m still stunned that I could be a father. After all these years, I’m finally alive again; I’ve finally found love again. I again struggle to find a secure way for holding my fifteen-minute-old son. I feel as if I’m going to drop him, despite the midwife’s reassuring words that I’m doing it right. Finally, I look up and into the beautiful silvery grey eyes of my wife to find her smiling amused at my rare moment of insecurity. She never fails to amaze me. After only three hours of labor, she gave birth to a wonderful little boy. He has inherited his mother’s black hair, and his eyes, when they are open as they are now, are so blue they hurt to look at them. “Do you suppose his eyes will change?” I asked the midwife as she took her last assessment of my wife’s vitals and made sure the Empress was comfortable. After fluffing the Empress’s pillow, the tall, older woman turned to me and smiled. “His eyes are quite blue.” She tilted her head to the side and regarded the child in my arms. She had already commented on how calm he was for a newborn. I had related that most Force-sensitive babies were calm; at least, that was what my mother told us to expect. After a moment, she reasoned, “They probably will remain blue. Though they may darken, or change to grey, like the Empress’s. Or they may turn green. Isn’t your father’s eyes green, Your Majesty?” I nod an affirmation, but I do not look up. I’m lost in those intense blue eyes of my newborn son, remembering how, after giving up on ever finding love again, not wanting to love again, a young, exiled, Hapan beauty turned my well planned life upside down… ~~~ I met the woman who would become the mother of my son almost two years ago, when she came to the Empire seeking asylum from enemies who wanted, not only her title as the Ducha of Lorrel, but, also, wanted her dead. I was sitting in my throne in the Receiving Room waiting for the young woman and her father to be announced. I received all official requests here. My father, when he was Emperor had a room off his office which was more like a sitting room than a throne room. However, I decided to move the Receiving Room near the Moffs’ Chambers in the palace. Although, my father had never sat on a throne, I felt that a throne showed my continued authority. As the king of Onderon, I sat proudly on the throne I wrestled from the treacherous slugs that would have my Élivia murdered, and I sat there as the monarch in my wife’s place for twelve years. To give up my throne now that I had become Emperor, seemed impossible. If anything, it would have made me appear weak to those who felt I was too unsure of myself to take my father’s place. I hadn’t spent much time on Bastion after I seized Onderon, and because of this, many didn’t really know that I was, indeed, very capable of being the Emperor. I became Onderon’s king after I crushed the resistance and quickly began to make changes to the government that ensured Élivia’s dreams would become a reality. To some I became the greatest king the planet ever had, to others I was just a tyrant who, inadvertently, improved their lives by making laws that helped increase farmers’ profits and brought much needed industry to a planet that had every little. In accord with my mother, I improved healthcare and education and allowed for the young to have far more choices for their futures than their parents ever had. However, I felt my greatest accomplishment and greatest tribute to the only woman I was convinced I’d ever love, had been the university built in Iziz, named in honor of my late wife and their queen, Élivia Du’pré Fel. I had been Emperor for three years, and, so far, I’ve continued my parent’s works, but I was beginning to find my own niche. Father and Mother spent more and more time away from Bastion. They remained for long periods on Serenno at the estate they bought there after Dad retired and all four of my grandparents passed on. My grandmother, Jedi Master Leia Organa, had died only three months ago on Ossus. She had never been quite the same after she lost Grandpa Han three years ago, only a month after I took my father’s place. As if realizing that they too were getting older, they decided they wanted to be closer to their only grandchild, the only grandchild I was convinced they would ever have. I hated this sort of thing, especially this sort of thing. This was delicate business, the Hapans were allies and she was accused of assassination. Everyone in the galaxy knew what I thought of assassins. I became known for my efficiency in disposing of the vermin. If she wasn’t innocent, not even my friendship with her father would save her from me shipping her straight back to Allana with an Imperial Knight escort. “Your Majesty,” the bronze protocol droid by the double doors announced bringing my attention to the front of the room, “Presenting General Alin Sarreti and Ducha Marleena Tru of Lorrel, member of the Hapes Consortium.” I had known Alin Sarreti all my life. His father, Moff Ephin Sarreti, had been one of my father’s most active supporters, and his eldest brother was married to my aunt, Wynssa Fel. Alin, though older than me by at least a dozen years, had become a close friend when I declared war on Onderon. Although, he had been my loyal and trusted commanding general during my time as king, his personal life was something of a mess. He had an affair with a Hapan Ducha when he was in Hapes with his then wife, who had been the Imperial ambassador to Hapes. The product of that affair was the reason I was now being involved with this less than politically ideal situation. I frowned at Alin as he bowed. He knew I was not pleased with this at all. Then the young woman standing directly behind her father caught my attention. She bowed and easily met my gaze. She was beautiful; long black hair laid in curls down her back and her black and white gown brought out the silvery hue of her bright and intelligent, almond-shaped eyes, which were set in a perfect oval face. “Your Majesty,” Alin said and gestured toward her, “may I present my daughter.” She smiled and simply said, “It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Your Excellency. However, I do wish it was during more favorable circumstances.” “Yes,” I said noncommittally. “Please continue with what you wish of the Empire, Ducha Tru.” She never wavered from my intense and penetrating gaze. That in of it self impressed me, I’d seen my hard, icy stare buckle the most hardened of military men and thugs alike. With shoulders squared and head held high, she said in lightly accented words associated with Hapans, “Your Majesty, I am asking for amnesty here in the home of my father. I feel that I have that right since he is an Imperial citizen. My title means very little now as my lands and estate have been seized by my cousin. She has the full support of Queen Mother Allana and I am quite certain that she is who planted the damning evidence against me. I have been wrongly accused of attempted assassination of Chume’da Tenel Ka’lee.” Her voice shook as she went on, but again she never looked away from me, “I could not harm a child. I have nothing to gain from wanting the Chume’da dead.” “Yes, I’ve read the report, Ducha, the evidence is all there,” I said in a cold voice that immediately caused her father to become extremely nervous, but he didn’t show it. He was ultimately a professional. “You were the one who ordered the attack on the the Chume’da as she visited her uncle, Hosa Dé Lum. Admiral Dé Lum was killed when he took the blaster shot meant for his niece. You had much to gain with the princess out of the way, Ducha. It was your hope that, with the princess dead, you would have a possible opening for the throne. Is this not the facts as presented to the Queen Mother and the Prince Consort?” “No! I have no chance at the throne of Hapes. I am only a distant cousin of Queen Mother Allana. Even my mother was many times removed from Prince Isolder when they were alive. I am innocent.” Her controlled passion impressed me. I reached out into the Force and probed her. I could easily see she was telling the truth and I could easily sense her strength and determination to clear her name. Why, then, couldn’t Allana see her innocence? Or, more accurately, why couldn’t she see through Marleena’s cousin’s lies? I wondered. Finally, I asked, “Why, if you are telling the truth, would you not plead your case before the Queen Mother? She's a Jedi as you are, I’m sure, well aware of, and can easily determine if you, or your cousin are lying.” “Just as you are now, Your Majesty?” Her candor took me aback for a heartbeat. “In other words,” she slowly said, “you are wondering why I ran here to be with the father I barely know, rather than stand up for my innocence and fight for my title and lands?” She paused and I simply raised a questing eyebrow indicating for her to continue. “I know my life is forfeit regardless of whether Queen Mother Allana believes me or not. My cousin has wanted my title since the day I was born. She’s older, and if I hadn’t been born, the title would have gone to her. I’ve long been despised by my mother’s younger sister and by her daughter. She believes me a disgrace to all that is Hapan because my father is not Hapan. And, indeed, he is an Imperialist from a long standing Imperial family, a Moff’s son. “Your Majesty, surely you can understand the dilemma I’m in. If I fight and am proven innocent, my cousin, Contessa, will still have my title. She would fight me to the death for it. And I cannot do that to my people. Contessa is ruthless when it comes to me, but I believe she will do right by the people of Lorrel as their Ducha. Queen Allana will ensure that. However, if I simply leave Hapes, I, at least, have my life and a chance to start anew, while Lorrel won’t suffer years of civil unrest, schemes and economic turmoil.” I was suddenly impressed with this young woman. She was actually putting her people first and not thinking only of herself. In my experience, most nobles and royals alike never did this. Hells, most of the pompous, democratic rhetoric spouting politicians from the GA didn’t do this. And here was a Hapan girl doing it. I didn’t feel a bit of fear in her; if anything, I felt determination, concern and a sense of pride, which suddenly reminded me of someone else who once before graced my life. No, I could not compare my dear wife with this girl who could be an assassin. “You do realize that I do not tolerate assassins, Ducha?” “Yes, Your Majesty,” she replied. “But I am not an assassin. I have nothing to prove my innocence except my word, which I realize coming from a Hapan can mean very little. But I’ve never schemed in my life. I’ve never hurt anyone. My mother was not a virtuous woman, my existence attests to that. She seduced a married man simply because she felt he had the qualities she was looking for in the man she wanted to sire her daughter, nothing more. “But she was a just governor of Lorrel. She taught me to take care of the people, who are under me, and she taught me that my word means everything; ironically, she learned that from her father.” She paused and finished by saying, “If you believe me an assassin, I know my life is over. Your history of administering quick justice to those found guilty of it is quite well known. Do you think I would come here seeking asylum if I wasn’t innocent?” I was suddenly more aware than ever of just how young she was. I was sure that she was far from guileless, but she was before me fighting for her life. And she had proven herself to me. She was innocent. There was no sense of guilt in her, only a deep remorse that she was ripped from her home. And a determination to prove she hadn’t anything to do with the assassination of the queen mother’s brother-in-law. “How old are you?” My question took her totally by surprise. Alin, despite the seriousness of the situation, chided in a way only a true friend ever could, “Your Majesty, I believe that it isn’t wise to ask a Hapan woman her age.” Without looking at him, I responded, “That may be true, but this isn’t Hapes, and, unless I’ve missed something, the Ducha that I’m granting amnesty to is asking because of her claim to Imperial citizenship due to her being your daughter. Isn’t this so, Ducha Tru?” Finally, she smiled and only a dead man could miss the brightness of it. “Yes, Your Majesty, I suppose it is. As for my age, I have no problem in announcing it. I am, after all, as much an Imperial citizen as I’m Hapan. I’ve just turned twenty at the beginning of the year.” I paused for a moment and then looked at Alin, I could feel his immense sense of relief. “You have orders to go to Eriadu to assist Moff Tarkin-Na’al with her pirate problem.” “I was hoping that, in light of my daughter’s situation, my orders could be deferred, Your Majesty. I’m afraid that she will now need protection from possible radicals from Hapes. You know what I’m referring to.” I returned my gaze to the young, beautiful face of Marleena and knew that I should do as he suggested, but something overwhelming caused me to say, “No, General, your orders as what they are. I will personally see to the care of our young guest. She shall remain here at the palace for the immediate future. You can stay here for the next week, but after that, you must ship off to Eriadu.” “Yes, Your Majesty,” Alin said, knowing the matter was closed. He looked at his daughter, but her eyes remained fixed on mine. Finally, in a voice that was strong, but, yet, incredulously relieved, she said, “You believe in my innocence.” I remained silent and continued to regard her with the same hard gaze, but as I did, I suddenly realized that she honestly hadn’t believed that I would. ~ The next week went by quickly. I only saw Marleena at dinner, since it was out of a tradition which I had set up as Onderon’s king that all visitors at the palace would eat the evening meal with me in the formal dining room. The first few days of Marleena’s time there, my aunt and uncle, Wynssa and Arik, visited and whisked her about Imperial City. Arik continued the tradition of his father and was the Moff of the Braxant Sector and lived on Bastion. It was odd to realize that Marleena was also their niece, and it actually came as quite the surprise that she had spent time with them when she was younger. They even wanted to take her to their home after Alin left, but I turned them down since I had promised Alin to keep her at the palace and safe. He told me privately that he was concerned about possible assassins sent by her conniving cousin or any other Hapan who wanted to take matters into their own hands. I knew he was concerned about Allana sending someone, but I knew better. However, I couldn’t tell him that I was quite positive my cousin wouldn’t ever do such a thing. I simply agreed, instead, to keep her here with me. However, after a few days, Wyn and Arik went back to their own estate near the mountains, leaving only her father. Although, he was too busy during the day with preparing for his deployment with the Second Fleet to be around much, he made it a point to be at the palace for diner every night. I was impressed; I never expected to see this side of Alin. He truly did love his daughter, even though her conception had wrecked his marriage. It was interesting to see my friend with the daughter whose life he had had very little influence over. I could tell that he very much wanted to make up for lost time, and she wanted to have him around just as much. She shared with him all about her life on Lorrel. I learned a great deal about her without ever asking a single question. I was mostly ignored, which I didn’t really mind. Although, at times it painfully reminded me of what I lost when a sniper killed my pregnant wife sixteen years ago, I enjoyed watching her with Alin. I was actually quite surprised that they shared many of the same mannerisms, including the same giggling laugh. However, whereas it could be annoying with Alin, it was charming when Marleena giggled at her father when he told her of his many antics. She said very little to me, but, then, I had the reputation of being foreboding. I never encouraged this impression, but I knew people feared me. Also, I was never one for idle conversation. I learned far more from observing. Besides, I was almost old enough to be her father, what in the galaxy would she want to say to me? Then came the day her father left. It was only the two of us in the massive overly formal room. For the first three days, barely a word passed between us as we ate. She mostly answered my few questions with simple answers as if I taxed the amount of words we both spoke. But more frustrating for me, I wanted her to speak. I wanted to learn more about her, but I didn’t know what to ask or where to begin. However, for a reason I could only fathom, she fascinated me. But it became fairly obvious that she wanted nothing to do with me, she asked not a single question of me. It was like she couldn’t wait to get away from the table after the meal. I only ever saw her at meal time; though, I knew from the report the IK I had assigned to guard her (not because I didn’t trust her, but because I was ensuring her protection) informed me that she only roamed the palace’s public areas, but avoided any area where I may be found. If I wouldn’t have known better, I’d have thought she feared me, or what I’d do, if she did or said something to make me question my belief in her innocence, but I knew neither was true. She just plainly disliked me. During the past several days, I was busy finalizing a trade agreement with the GA. After dealing with the self-righteous, pretentious fools the GA sent to Bastion, I was looking forward to seeing Marleena at dinner tonight. She had a sparkle and a beauty that just came natural. After years of women trying to throw themselves at me, she was a refreshing change. Even if she wouldn’t speak openly with me, I enjoyed just being with her. The servants served the meal and she politely waited for me to begin. Once I started eating, I noticed she was still watching me. I sipped my wine and realized that I had never took her likes and dislikes into consideration for what was served at dinner. Hells, I never even thought to ask her if she liked the food being served. The chef knew what I liked, and that was what was cooked. I suddenly wished I had a female around for such things as deciding the menu. I finally inquired genuinely concerned, “Ducha, is something not to your liking?” She narrowed her eyes and sharply asked, “How long will I be a prisoner here?” Her question took me aback. “Prisoner? You’re not a prisoner.” “I’m not?” Her eyes blazed with near contempt. “I’m forced to remain here. I know Aunt Wynssa had asked about me going with them, but you refused. I also know that I’m watched all the time. And I can’t go anywhere without one of your Imperial Knights hanging about. If I’m not a prisoner, then, please, Your Majesty, enlighten me?” I stared at her. Not in anger, but in total astonishment. She completely misunderstood what was going on. I wasn’t keeping her prisoner, I was keeping her safe, just as I promised her father I would. However, it wasn’t even that which caused my shock. No, she definitely didn’t fear me. No one had spoken to me so plainly since my wife. After she died, people, including my family, let me to myself. I had their love and their support, but no one since Élivia had the gumption to verbally slap sense into me. She took my silence as affirmation. She glared at me for a moment longer, and then simply stood up so fast her ornate chair fell to the floor. She whirled in a cloud of violet shimmersilk skirts and strode from the dinning room, daring me with each step to order her to halt. She completely got it wrong because I never told her anything. I enjoyed her company and her beauty, but I’ve been so alone for so long that I forgot that she needed something from me. It was then, as I sat all alone in a dinning room capable of seating a hundred, I realized that I desperately needed some people skills. ~ Of course, I knew my decision to grant Marleena pardon would receive the full attack of the Hapan government. The next morning I finally received the comm call I had been both expecting and dreading for the past two weeks. “How can you do this, Zekk?” my cousin asked over the secure comm connection. “She ordered the assassination of my daughter, and, in fact, succeeded in killing my brother-in-law. I can’t believe, you of all people, would show this traitor an ounce of compassion.” I took a deep breath and stared into lovely face of my cousin, Queen Mother Allana Djo. Her brown eyes, eyes so similar to my own, flashed with raw anger. “Allana, she did not order the assassination.” “You believe her?” she incredulously asked. “Yes, I do. I may not be a Jedi, Allana, but I still have the Force. And it doesn’t lie. She has not assassinated anyone. It isn’t even within her nature to think it.” Then I narrowed my eyes and my voice lowered as I added, “But if she did, she would not have found sympathy with me.” She sat back in her chair and stared at me. “I don’t believe it. You’ve fallen under her spell.” “What are you talking about?” “Simple, cousin,” Allana said and all but sneered. “Do you not find her charming and beautiful? Has she seduced you yet?” I looked blankly at her in shock. Marleena seduce me? Force, she can’t tolerate being in the same room with me! She must have read something into my expression that wasn’t true. She went on, “Yes, of course, she has. Hapans have long ago cornered the market on those traits. She will do anything to make you believe her. And you are a fool if you do. Her cousin, my dear friend, Contessa Tru, would not lie about this. And you are right, Zekk, the Force does not lie and neither is Contessa. Marleena ordered the assassination, not her cousin, Contessa.” “I’m sorry, Allana, but I know she had nothing to do with the attack on Tenel Ka’lee. I’m sorry about Hosa, I know you were close, but Marleena did not order the attack.” She straightened and for one of the first times in our lives, she truly became the Queen Mother of Hapes speaking to a leader of another government. “Emperor Fel, if you do not turn over the former Ducha of Lorrel, Marleena Tru, for Hapes to deal with, I will have no option left than to consider you hostile to the Hapes Consortium.” I glared at my cousin. “Is that a threat, Queen Mother, for I believe you had better rethink that declaration?” She continued her hard stare as she replied, “It is a warning. Marleena Tru can never discover our true relationship, Emperor Fel.” “What are you talking about?” I was truly shocked by the severity of her words. “It’s simple, Zekk, if you ever let it out that we are cousins, I will fight you, and, as much as it would pain me to do so, I would firmly deny it to my death. My paternity can never be discovered by my enemies. And trust me, Marleena Tru is my enemy and so are her benefactors.” She ended the connection, and for a long moment, I sat there stunned. What the kriff just happened? ~ After two nights of eating alone, I realized that I had to do something. Alin left Marleena in my care, and more importantly, I couldn’t ignore her. If I did, I’d only confirm her belief she was a prisoner, and reinforce whatever idea she had about me. Does she think I’m a tyrant? But I’m not cruel to her. I had to find a way to make amends. I decided that in the morning I’d see if she’d like to go to the Pelleaon Gardens. Morning came early for me. I hadn’t slept well the night before; my dreams were haunted by memories of Élivia. However, they weren’t just the sensual sort of dreams that I usually had, these were dreams of her telling me to let her go. In fact, I awoke with her last whispery, dream-words echoing in my ears… Let me go… I dressed quickly and called my assistant to clear my calendar for the day and then my four Imperial Knights, the Vetters and the Kriegs, to inform them what I had planned. I never went out publicly without them. It wasn’t because I was afraid, but after five attempts on my life, I learned to be extremely cautious. After I had breakfast in my suite, I headed to Marleena’s rooms. I rang her bell and was surprised when she answered the door and not the maid I assigned for her use. “May I help you, Your Majesty?” She disarmed me totally by showing absolutely no surprise in her voice, or in the steady silver eyes that could have pinned me to a wall. “I…I was hoping you’d join me for a tour of the Pelleaon Gardens. They’re actually quite spectacular this time of early spring.” Kriff, I sound like a boy asking a girl out for his first date. “I’m surprised that you could find the time to do something so mundane, Your Majesty.” “Mundane? The Gardens are far from being that, I promise you.” Of course, I totally missed her point. Three hours later, after the security sweep of the massive gardens to clear them of dangers, and the cordoning off of the sudden horde of HoloNet reporters that followed me everywhere outside the palace walls, Marleena and I began our quiet tour. For the first half hour of our visit, we walked along in complete silence. I could sense the amusement of Ella, Elkson, Gena and Xander as the Vetters walked point before us and the Kriegs as rear guard. I could only imagine what they found to be so funny. Finally, we moved into a section of the garden that was just recently completed and I instantly froze. My sister, as a Moff, had this sanctioned without ever really having my full approval, but I reluctantly left it go through. This was the first time I’d seen the rose garden created in honor of my wife. “Oh, it’s beautiful…” Marleena gasped from my side. “I’ve never seen a rose quite like this.” She moved through the stone monoliths of the entrance and instantly bent down to smell the delicate lavender rose with a yellow blush. The Queen’s Rose was designed especially for this garden and had Élivia’s two favorite colors in mind. Suddenly, I wanted nothing more than to escape, but I couldn’t. I had to stay. “No, I’m sure you haven’t,” I said more to my self than to her, but she turned to me anyway. Then she straightened, and without permeable, or anything else, she said, “You still love her.” Her quietly spoken statement shocked me right out of my melancholy thoughts. I gazed at her and replied, “I will always love her. She was the best thing that ever happened to me…” And before I realized it two hours passed by and I told Marleena all about Élivia. We had found a stone bench and sat. Finally, she quietly said, “I can’t imagine a love that strong.” Then meeting my gaze, she added, “She was very lucky to have a man like you in her life. But I can’t understand why you never remarried. Surely, she wouldn’t have wanted you to live your life alone.” It was a simple statement, but in that silvery gaze I realized the truth. Élivia would have been appalled to think I spent sixteen years pining over her. I suddenly threw back my head and laughed. Marleena stared at me as if I had lost it, my guards were concerned. And finally, I regained enough composure to say, though I knew it would have made absolutely no sense to any of them, “Maybe, I’m more like my name-sake than anyone would have ever thought possible.” ~ And that was the beginning. Three months went by. I realized that I was falling in love with my young palace guest not long after our first tour of the Gardens. I decided that it was foolish to eat in the overly formal, massive dining room. I invited her to my suite; it had been the same apartment my parents had occupied when Dad was Emperor. We ate our meals either in the dining room, or as time passed, on the adjoining balcony, and, eventually, we completely opened up to each other. After about a month of eating in the Emperor’s Suite, I took her out into the conservatory. It was my favorite place in the palace, and, until I became Emperor, it had been open to the palace occupants, but I had it closed off. It became my private sanctum, and I realized, my place to delve into my own self-pity. My mother was outraged about it, but I did it anyway. Now, I took Marleena there. She was enthralled by it, especially the gazebo. She scolded me for not showing her such a delightful place before. “You had this closed because it was special to Élivia?” “Yes, she loved the waterfall and the fish pond.” She simply nodded and was quiet for the rest of our meal in the gazebo. And I realized in that instant that my emotions for this amazing, beautiful, young woman were far from one-sided. I decided that it was time I finally let everything that was Élivia go. She would always be an important part of my life, but now she wasn’t the most important thing in my life. Marleena was. The next morning I ordered the conservatory reopened to the palace. Marleena loved the gazebo and would often spend hours in there reading holobooks, or lounging enjoying the beauty of the place. It became our special place to share our meals as summer waned by. One early autumn evening as we enjoyed caf in our favorite spot—the gazebo—she asked me if I planned on doing anything for my parent’s anniversary, or for my own birthday which was only six weeks after their anniversary. I told her that, if she would like to plan something, I’d be delighted. The light shining in those silver eyes was as bright as if I’d given her the keys to the Empire. Within only a month, she planed to have a celebration of galactic proportions. I was utterly amazed by the efficiency in which she planned a completely formal ball. An efficiency that my parents didn’t miss either. Mom was the one who cornered me not long after their return to Bastion from their extended stay on Serenno. “You’re in love with her.” The words weren’t a condemnation only a statement of a fact she observed. “Yes. I’m in love with her,” I answered as we walked through the garden she had so much a hand in creating. “And, unless the Force suddenly started lying to me, she loves me.” Mom stopped and turned to look at me. “But you haven’t talked of your feelings?” I laughed. “Mother, I’m old enough to be her father, well, if I were a young father. And I do have the good sense to realize the political nightmare that could fly in my face with Hapes if I entertain any thoughts of something more permanent with her. No, I’m forced to love her quietly and just hope that I’ll be able to let her go when the time comes for me to do so.” “Zekk, is that fair to her? I see how she looks at you. Sweet Force, it’s written all over her face the depth of her feelings for you. She nearly worships you.” She paused and looked up at the waterfall. “As for the age difference, who cares? What is it anyway? Fifteen, sixteen years?” I nod and she goes on. “I once loved a man who was fourteen older years than me, and had also been my Master at one time.” “Master Durron?” She smiled at me. “Yes. Age means nothing, Zekk. Not when it comes to love. And, son,” she gently laid her hand on my cheek before continuing, “love has come far too seldom to you. Don’t cheat yourself out of it now that you finally found it again.” “What about Allana, she still is convinced Marleena ordered that assassination?” Mom frowned for a moment, then she said, “Well, yeah, that could be a delicate issue. Allana’s relationship to us has to be protected. And if she doesn’t wish for Marleena to know, then we have no choice but to respect those wishes. However, I believe Allana. Ducha Contessa Tru had nothing to do with the attack ether. I personally talked with her for a long time when we vacationed on Hapes last month. I think both of them were set up. Someone else carried out the attack and then planted evidence against Marleena.” “But why? You’ve met her, there’s not a malicious bone in her body. If her mother wasn’t Hapan, I’d swear she had no connection to that rancor den of back-stabbers.” “I don’t understand why either, but perhaps it is a blessing she isn’t like the rest of them. I very much like the former Ducha.” The ball to celebrate my parents’ thirty-seventh wedding anniversary and my thirty-sixth birthday went off with amazing success. Marleena played hostess and I knew that most of the guests assumed we were involved. Of course, by my exclusively dancing with only her, unless I was with a family member, added to this suspicion. Finally, the time came for the last dance. My parents had the marble dance floor completely to themselves as the orchestra played the very outdated Alderaan Waltz that had been their first dance during their wedding. It was easy to see that despite the number of years they were married and their age, they were still very much in love today as they were the day they wedded. However, my eyes weren’t on my parents, they were firmly planted on the woman by my side. Without looking at me, she quietly observed, “They’re so romantic, your parents. That’s something you never really see in Hapes. Romance just doesn’t seem to exist for the Hapans. At least, not like that. They’re not only lovers, but they’re true partners and best friends.” Then she turned and met my intense gaze with one of her own. “Could you be a man’s partner?” I was surprised at how husky I sounded. Force, I’ve never wanted her more than I do now. “Is there a man who wants me as a partner?” she countered and I was hit suddenly by a wave of her own desire through the Force. “If there is, I could make concessions. I am, after all, as much an Imperial citizen as I am Hapan.” “That is good to know and something I’ll have to keep in mind.” I invited her to have caf with me in the gazebo following the ball. It was insanely late, but I didn’t want to let her go. She agreed, but asked if she could meet me there after changing out of her ball gown. I didn’t tell her that I would have been more than happy to handle the removal of the dark blue and silver gown myself. Instead, I used the time to change out of the formal clothes I was wearing, and into something casual—trousers and a simple button-down shirt. Of course, I had learned something from observing my father as a kid, and let the top three buttons open. After a droid set up the caf and Chandrila campaign in the sitting area of the gazebo, I settled in to wait for her to arrive. I didn’t have long to wait, though it seemed like an eternity. I felt her approach and looked up from the Kashyyyk orchid I was studying. And my breath was stolen. She floated as much as walked around the dinning table to where I sat on a chaise lounge waiting for her. Sitting up, I watched as she slowly opened the knotted belt of the dressing gown she wore. My heart raced and my mouth completely went dry. As she took her next step closer to me, the silk gown slid off her shoulders, revealing an extremely short, shimmery, nearly transparent, sleeveless nightgown being the only covering over a perfect feminine body. “Marleena…” I couldn’t breathe. I couldn’t think. All I wanted was her. She smiled as I met her eyes, finally. “You like what you see?” I knew I couldn’t stand, so I just sat there and swallowed hard. “I…Oh, Gods, yes. You are the most beautiful woman in the galaxy.” She stopped before me, and I realized there wasn’t much left to the imagination as I stared at her curves through the gauzy material. “I’m glad that you like what you see, Your Majesty.” I met her eyes and smiled one of my mother’s lopsided grins. “I think you can call me Zekk. You are trying to seduce me. And succeeding quite nicely, I’d like to add.” She shrugged and noncommittally replied, “Maybe. Or, possibly this is how I go dressed to midnight invitations to caf. It is well past my bedtime.” I finally stood up and took her into my arms. I pulled her close to me. She closed her eyes and moaned when she pressed against me. “Do attend many such invitations, my lady?” She opened her eyes and met my gaze with a wicked smirk. “Only to those I think I’ll find intriguing.” I grinned and quipped, “Then I’m honored that you think you’ll find this invitation so interesting.” Then I couldn’t take it anymore. I had to kiss her but before I did I had to let her know my feelings first. I cupped her face and softly, huskily said, “Marleena, I love you. I want you. You saved me from my own stupidity. You are so amazing that I’ve been enthralled by you since you first walked into my receiving room all those months ago.” “You…you were enthralled by me? I thought you couldn’t stand me. You ignored me, Zekk. I wanted nothing more than to impress you, and you ignored me. It infuriated me. Then you opened up about Élivia, my heart ached for you as much as I wanted to purge every memory of her from your mind. I was so jealous of what you had with her. I only ever…” I kissed her, deeply and passionately. “You have no reason to be jealous of her, Marleena. I love you. I’m sorry that you thought I ignored you. I’m sorry that you felt like a prisoner here. Can you forgive me?” She smiled that solar-like smile and said, “Yes, you’re forgiven. I love you, Zekk. I love you so very much.” She wrapped her arms around my neck and wound her fingers through my short brown hair as she pulled me in for a fiery kiss. I turned us and slowly pushed her down onto the lounge. After I broke the kiss, I met her eyes and said, “I wasn’t planning on this. Not tonight, but…” I paused and smiled. “I’ve learned very early to trust the Force, and I’m not beginning to question it now.” “Zekk, whatever are you talking about?” I laughed, and kissed her pert nose. “I just can’t do anything right around you, can I?” “Well, that depends.” “Marleena Tru, former Ducha of Lorrel, will you marry me?” She was shocked. “Wh—what?” “You heard me,” I said laughingly as I leaned over her smoothing her long curling hair with my free hand. “Become my Empress. Rule with me as my partner, my friend and my lover. Become my partner in everyway. Can you do that?” She recovered her surprise and smiled wickedly as she said, “Yes, Zekk, I will.” But before I could kiss her senseless, she added, “Emmm…Emperor Tru. I think it suits you.” I frowned. Stang, I never considered she’d want me to take her name. Kriff, what a precedent that would be for an Imperial leader. “You won’t take my name?” she pouted as she ran her hands down my firm chest, her fingers playing idly with the buttons, popping the fourth and then the fifth ones open. “Well, I just never thought about it. But if that is the only way you’ll agree to marry me. Well, then, I suppose my father and the rest of the Empire will just have to get used to it. I’d do anything for you.” She stopped in her caressing of my chest and stared up at me. With awestruck tenderness, she said, “You’d really take my name, wouldn’t you? No, I’m only teasing you. I will take your name as is your custom. But I want to make a bargain with you.” I smiled. I couldn’t help the relief that touched me. I was very proud of my name, all of it. “Okay. What’s the bargain?” “When the time comes for us to have children, our first will be a Fel and will inherit the throne…no matter what the sex of the child is.” “Okay. I have no problem with that.” I leaned down and began kissing her neck. At her ear, I whispered, “But that’s not all.” She moaned and breathlessly said, “No, it’s not. Our second child will be a Tru to carry on my line.” I all but laughed. It suddenly reminded me of the bargain I made with Éliva all those years ago when I asked her to marry me. I looked into Marleena’s eyes and simply said, “It’s a deal. Now, what about the third—“ I nipped her lips with a kiss then went on, “— and the fourth?” Kiss. “And so on.” Shock and possibly even horror, paled her face and made her eyes go wide, but she calmly declared, “I think for right now even two is pushing it. I’m not to be your prized breeding nerf.” I laughed and then leaned over her further pushing her into the soft velvet cushions. “No, you are definitely not that.” Again I kissed her deeply, our tongues dueling. She pushed the shirt off my shoulders as she broke the kiss. Gasping for air, she said, “Love me, Zekk. Love me.” And I did. That night in the gazebo, our son was conceived. Three months later we were married in a private ceremony attended by only family and close personal friends. ~~~ Suddenly, the sound of my name startles out of my reverie. “Zekk, are you okay?” I look up to find Marleena staring strangely at. I smile and say, “I’m sorry, love. I was just thinking about how beautiful he is.” She nods and smiles. I continue by announcing, “Now, we must find a name for him. I don’t understand why we couldn’t think of one before hand. He’s to be my heir, it’s important for him to have a strong name.” She shrugs and I sense her amusement in my sudden sentimentality, or possibly it's my self-importance. She sighs and closes her eyes for a moment. When she opens them, she looks at me and says, “Perhaps we should have picked a name, but I wanted to meet my son first before I slapped a name onto him.” Suddenly, she sits up and scoots over, making room on the edge of the maternity bed. Patting the space she made, she commands, “Come here and sit beside me.” Without hesitation, I carefully move from my chair to settle beside my wife. The baby begins to cry and I suddenly wonder if I squeezed him too hard while I carried him. With concern etched on my face, I stare at her questioningly. As if she read my mind, she smirked and said, “You worry far too much. Come, give him to me. He’s probably only hungry.” I hand her our son and watch fascinated by her as she opens her gown and holds him to her to nurse. After watching him herself for several long moments, she raises her silver eyes again and softly announces, “I think we should name him Roan. I’ve always liked that name and it belonged to my grandfather, my mother’s father. He was a great man.” Transfixed by the suckling babe for a few more moments, I mull over the name. Without looking up, I smile and agree, “Then Roan it is. Roan Fel...” ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Well, what do you think? FL -----signature----- I used to dream of Kyp or Jag, now it's Edward Cullen...I blame Cyn and Saber.. Master to DanaeMariSkywalker, JediMasterArmada and PHGS_Weyr
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PHGS_Weyr Registered: Apr '06	Date Posted: 6/12 10:39am Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 8: 6
	most excelent! -----signature----- Fics in Bio! No longer on Hiatus "Facts, exact numbers, reassurance... a Jedi seeks not these things." - Kyp Durron Padawan to Flowerlady!
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SWpants666 Registered: Oct '04	Date Posted: 6/12 3:14pm Subject: RE: The Winding Path: A Collection of Vignettes, Sequel to The Path of Dreams--OC's, CC's, Vig 8: 6
	Y'know, it's so difficult for me to think of Han being over 100 years old. Even in Legacy he's what 70? I keep thinking of him of a healthy 40-year-old man. I became Onderon’s king after I crushed the resistance and quickly began to make changes to the government that ensured Élivia’s dreams would become a reality. To some I became the greatest king the planet ever had, to others I was just a tyrant who, inadvertently, improved their lives by making laws that helped increase farmers’ profits and brought much needed industry to a planet that had every little Oh you tyrant you! Evil being! I love the changes he made. Greatest king for sure Poor Han & Leia I don't see either one of them going long without the other though. I don't think they'd last 5 years after the other's death, and I think you portrayed that well in that paragraph. Contessa is ruthless when it comes to me, but I believe she will do right by the people of Lorrel as their Ducha. Queen Allana will ensure that. However, if I simply leave Hapes, I, at least, have my life and a chance to start anew, while Lorrel won’t suffer years of civil unrest, schemes and economic turmoil.” I love seeing people who have any sort of power care more about their people than theirselves. At least Contessa isn't a bad candidate for the peoples' Ducha. No wonder Zekk fell for her It was odd to realize that Marleena was also their niece, and it actually came as quite the surprise that she had spent time with them when she was younger. Oh my goodness FL all this family stuff is making my head spin. LOL It was then, as I sat all alone in a dinning room capable of seating a hundred, I realized that I desperately needed some people skills. I could have told him that just from the way he thinks! "she fascinated me...I was never one for idle conversation...I never took her likes and dislikes into consideration" And isn't she just the perfect person for that? “It’s simple, Zekk, if you ever let it out that we are cousins, I will fight you, and, as much as it would pain me to do so, I would firmly deny it to my death. My paternity can never be discovered by my enemies. And trust me, Marleena Tru is my enemy and so are her benefactors.” Okay...okay that I understand. But oh my Force Allana is acting nutters! Poor Zekk the guy is so confused The garden for Élivia sounds so freaking beautiful. T