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Author	Topic: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU - Completed April 1
obsessedwithSW Registered: May '05	Date Posted: 2/7/07 3:35pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	She stepped back to Obi-Wan, tapped him on the shoulder and handed him the message. Obi-Wan read it where he was, half-turned to hide the contents from those mourners who continued to file past. He looked up sharply, his mouth set in a disproving line. Luminara shook her head fractionally and retrieved the datapad before taking up her position on the other side of the casket. Their hands were tied, their instructions explicit. Until Anakin and Barriss returned - or the Senator was buried - they were honor bound to their duties on Naboo. Poor Obi-Wan. Luminara is taking this well. I cant wait to see if Bariss can change things. -----signature----- Yes Darth Maul -bring sexy back! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JW8kOYvwVng Avid SiriWaner ! Stories in Bio
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Raptor517 Registered: Sep '06	Date Posted: 2/7/07 3:49pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	And we're off to tatooine! Great post, looking forward to what happens next. Raptor517 -----signature----- Piercing the Darkness http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/28010631/p1/?1 His Brother's Words http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/26020497/p1/?3 Metamorphosis http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/24997946/p5/?7 Hunter's Vendetta http://
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EverydayAngel Registered: Sep '06	Date Posted: 2/7/07 4:23pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	I like how the story is moving forward and Barriss' presence is sure to bring about a different turn of events. I love the connection they have. The part with Padme's family was so sad
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Jedi Trace Title: • SouthEast RSA • Fan Fiction Manager Registered: Dec '99	Date Posted: 2/8/07 7:32pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	Another fantastic chapter! The opening with Padme’s family was heartbreaking. I cannot imagine a fate worse than losing a child, and you portrayed that beautifully. This is a tiny detail, but I really liked that Barriss was wearing the japor snippet around her wrist. It’s very fitting. The inversion of the dream sequence was brilliant – Anakin waking her and learning his mother’s potential fate. And I loved Barriss there. She doesn’t play around, does she? "What do you know about feeling?" He rounded on her spitefully, his eyes flashing. […] There was a sadness in her gaze as she watched him. "If you could see yourself, maybe you wouldn't think my vision was so far fetched." He glared at her. "I was a fool to think you could understand. No one does because no one but me remembers their mother." That stung. Barriss managed not to flinch at his venomous accusation. "So let's go after her and prove us both wrong." ACK! Can’t wait to get to Tattooine… And I gotta comment on the Obi-Wan/Luminara interaction there at the end. While brief, it was excellent characterization! I wonder about those two... -----signature----- “Umo ji muna, Cade mojo. ” ~ Jan Duursema Light, dark - They are just directions. Do not be fooled that you stand on anything other than your own two feet. ~ Shaak Ti, TFU
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LuminaraFan4Evr Registered: Sep '06	Date Posted: 2/9/07 4:22pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	That was amazing. Definetly the best yet. You're characters are just so real... you really feel all their emotions. Loved the Lumi/Obi bit at the end -----signature----- Proud Member Of The Lumi Fan Club I'm a Lumi/Wan shipper. If you are too, PM me! "If God had meant for you to have just one cookie, you wouldn't have two hands." - My Grandpa
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Jade_Max Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 2/20/07 7:19pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	CodyMonKenobi – I haven’t actually read the Medstar books yet, but they’re next on my list As for the Barriss/Shmi situation... If anyone read one of my very first works on these boards (an A/P fic) there will be hints of the plot I used for that one. Obi-Wan and Lumi won’t be coming in to play more just yet, but they’ll be back later. VaderLVR64 – You know, I find myself hoping we get a different outcome for Shmi too. We’ll just have to see where my Muse decides to take us. Daenarrah – I’ve been to a funeral or two, so I apologize if it was morbidly sad – it was just the melancholy of the day talking. Hopefully things won’t stay that sad... Barriss isn’t exactly subtle and, her impetuousness, while not nearly as bad as Anakin’s has a tendency to get her into the kind of interesting situations. The Tatooine one is just the beginning... DarthSilious – I can certainly PM you when I update, welcome to my story and thanks for reading! KELIA – I think Barriss has finally realized that the Force is giving her the ability to watch Anakin’s visions for a reason. It’s just a matter of figuring out why. And so, she thinks she’s figured out why. As for Angry Anakin – she dealt with him at the beginning of the story, somehow I think she’s going to do the same if he looses it again. Valairy_Scot – I can certainly add you to my PM list. Believe it or not, I absolutely detest updating my topic to reflect when my stories have been edited and would rather send PMs– strange huh? Glad you’re enjoying it! Jek_Windu- – Thanks Mira_Jade – Your favorite story of mind? You’re too kind. Welcome and thanks for taking the time to read – I’m trying to take this slow since Anakin hasn’t yet recovered from his grief over Padmé – but he’s getting there. I’d be happy to PM you when I update. obsessedwithSW – I’m looking forward to seeing how/when/if Barriss can change things too – but I haven’t gotten that far and my muse is giving nothing away yet. So I’ll watch and bite my nails with the rest of you grin Raptor517 – Yes, yes we are! Thanks for reading! EverydayAngel – Indeed, it’s almost like she’s been destined to change history – maybe, eh? I guess we’ll see what happens. I apologize for the angst, but killing off major characters – beloved characters – will draw that out in me. Jedi Trace – I can’t imagine a fate worse than losing a child either. Parents should never have to bury their children. I wanted to show that it’s about as heartbreaking as it can be. My grandparents lost one of my aunts early in life – it was just heartbreaking to watch. This is a tiny detail, but I really liked that Barriss was wearing the japor snippet around her wrist. It’s very fitting. I was wondering if anyone would comment on it. Barriss may not like that Anakin’s given it to her, but she’s determined to prove she’s worthy of it, almost like she’s got to grow into the role of being worthy of the legacy if you will. I guess we’ll see where and how it features later, eh? Tatooine is next – whee, this is where the fun begins And I gotta comment on the Obi-Wan/Luminara interaction there at the end. While brief, it was excellent characterization! I wonder about those two... I wonder about them too sometimes. Maybe that’s the next pairing I’ll try grin Glad you’re enjoying it – though I have to try and update more often. LuminaraFan4Evr – I do my best to keep things realistic. If I can’t visualize it, I tend not to include it. Glad you’re enjoying! Thanks for reading everyone, posters and lurkers alike Just a reminder that if you want to be added to my PM list, please either drop me a note here, or, if you're lurking and don't want to show yourself, a note via PM. Post to follow! -----signature----- You'll Like me when I'm Dead - V/P Dark Drama - http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/29236355 Don't think, write. And have faith that your subconscious mind is smarter than you.- lazy RIP my little Nibbler
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Jade_Max Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 2/20/07 7:25pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic) - Date Edited: 2/20/07 8:50pm (1 edits total) Edited By: Jade_Max
	Barriss checked the sensors on the ship a final time. "Are you sure we're where we're supposed to be?" Anakin cast her a look that she couldn't read. "I spent almost ten years of my life down there. Yes, I'm positive." Barriss fell silent once more. The tension between them had mounted by the hour inside the cockpit. They'd 'borrowed' a small ship from the Nabooian fleet, a sleek silver craft with high speed capabilities in an effort to minimize their time away from their Masters. The ship had responded beautifully to the demands Anakin had made on her and was now arrowing in one a settlement that showed no transponder beyond "Mos Espa". The city, if one could call it that, spread out below her in a sprawling vista of single and dual floor homes, all shaped to withstand high winds. Anakin brought the Nubian cruiser down and landed it in one of the space port's docking bays. They paid a small fee and then departed, heading into the city. Barriss watched as Anakin paused every now and again as if seeing something that was familiar to him. And indeed it could very well be. If Barriss wasn't mistaken, Anakin had just brought her to the very place where he'd spent a good deal of his young life. They walked slowly, foregoing one of the droid driven carts. Anakin led her down several streets, into side streets and eventually down a couple of back alleys. She could see his confidence growing as each new twist and turn revealed itself. He obviously knew the route. They emerged some distance from the space port next to a shabby looking shop. Piles of half-repaired junk and parts were stacked haphazardly about the doorway and along the exterior walls. One of the strangest looking creatures Barriss had ever seen was seated at a work bench, attempting to put together the head of a strange looking droid. Anakin's smile died as he stepped up to the creature. Barriss stayed at his side, her hand closer to her lightsaber and expecting trouble. And then Anakin spoke, in a language she didn't understand, and proceeded to first converse, then assist the creature. She stared at him mystified. What was he doing? Anakin screwed the lens cap onto the droid's receptor and placed it back in front of the creature. "Ani? Little Ani?" Barriss tried not to grin. This creature - she thought she'd heard him say its name was Watto - called him Ani? She was jerked from her thoughts as Watto suddenly burst out excitedly in basic. "Ani, It is you! Ya sure sprouted! A Jedi Knight, whddaya know!" Barriss was shocked when Watto not only ignored her but asked Anakin's help in dealing with certain 'deadbeats' who owed him some money. She almost cheered when Anakin simply stared at the creature. "My mother." Watto looked chagrined. "Ah yes, Shmi. I don't own her no more; I sold her." "Sold her?" Anakin stared at the creature shocked. Barriss placed her hand on his arm, feeling the tension radiating off his frame. She didn't hear Watto's next callous comment, though she was sorely pressed to step in. Anakin's patience was coming to an end. "It was a long time ago, you know how it is, business is business." "To who?" Watto rubbed the back of his neck. "I sold her to a moisture farmer named... Lars - at least, I think it was Lars. But I hear he freed her, and married her - can you beat that?" Anakin took the news stoically but Barriss could sense his elation. His mother was free! Not only free, but apparently happily married, if Watto was to be believed. She squeezed his forearm, indicating her silent support and he smiled at her before turning his attention back to the blue Tydorian. "Where are they now?" "A long way from here," Watto told him cagily. "Long way from here. Somewhere out past Mos Eisleys I think." "I'd like to know." "Sure. Anything for you, let's just go check my records." Watto told them nervously. He didn't so much as spare Barriss a glance as he motioned for Anakin to enter his hut. Barriss trailed along curiously, the japor snippet burning in her hand as she squeezed it. She felt like an outsider, someone who was playing a role that hadn't been hers to play. That she wasn't meant to play. But then, things had changed a lot since their return from Ansion. She stopped inside, noting how warm it was inside compared to the cool share just beyond the door. Sweat popped out on her forehead as she waited, watching as Watto pulled several data disks from his files and placed them on a scarred work bench. His blue wings beat continuously, fanning Anakin's hair and cloak, and Barriss wondered if that small breeze made it more tolerable - or was simply a tease for cooler climates. She took in the shop. It was small, the space occupied with every kind of gadget or part a person could want. They were stacked in every available place, some of them looking ready to fall - or as if they were simply defying gravity because they could. She held her breath, and turned her gaze back to Anakin and Watto. They were hunched over a holo-map and Watto was pointing out several distinguishing features. They were talking in that strange language again - the one she hadn't realized Anakin could speak - and she didn't quite get the direction. She did, however, understand that they were discussing a ship's course. Anakin finally stood back, coolly thanked Watto for his help and then turned to her. She could see the excitement shining in his eyes and he motioned for her to lead the way out of the stifling little shop. Watto, content to let the Jedi leave, didn't follow them. Barriss was caught in a sudden, enthusiastic embrace as Anakin followed her outside and scooped her into his arms, twirling her around. She gasped, but could do little else as her feet were dropped back to the sandy lane. "She's free, Barriss!" She laughed. "Did you honestly expect to come back here and find your mother was still Watto's slave?" Anakin smiled sheepishly, looping an arm about her shoulders and guiding her back towards the space port. "Well, maybe not. The dreams didn't indicate any kind of city, or any dunes that reminded me of Mos Espa but I think a part of me was afraid I was completely wrong about everything." "Or maybe hoping you were?" He shrugged. His solemn countenance returned suddenly. "I hope whoever this Lars guy is, he's treating her well." Barriss chuckled softly. "Anakin, what kind of man buys a slave and frees her to marry her if he wasn't going to treat her right? Without the Republic's anti-slavery laws, he could have done anything he wanted with her." Anakin stopped, looking as if she's just sucker punched him. "What?" He gaped at her and then smiled sheepishly. "I hadn't thought of it like that. But you're right. With the Hutts controlling Tatooine and endorsing slavery, this Lars guy could have bade her do anything on punishment of death. Still..." She jabbed her elbow into his ribs unkindly. "How about you don't make assumptions before we find them? Who knows, maybe by now you have a younger brother or sister." Anakin didn't respond, but his pace increased and Barriss' delighted laughter echoed through the street as they raced back towards the space port. Yet, underneath the jovial excitement, there was a thread of foreboding. Like they were holding their breath until they arrived at the Lars homestead to really celebrate. Only once there, and the nightmares banished, would either breathe easier. The ship set down several dozen meters from a small desert home and Anakin killed the engines. The tension had climbed steadily after those first few elated moments outside Watto's shop and back to the ship. The details of the nightmares they'd been sharing had suddenly seemed more glaringly realistic than before. Anakin didn't say it, but Barriss knew that he was thinking that if his mother had still been a slave belonging to Watto, she would never have the opportunity to meet Tusken Raiders. She could sense the turmoil he was in, careening from happy, to nervous to angry and back to nervous. She could sense his mixed emotions about the coming reunion - and that he expected a confrontation. As the whine of the engines died, Anakin's hands remained firmly fastened over the manual controls, his gaze on the small homestead in the middle of nowhere. Barriss watched emotions flicker across his face; dread, longing, fear all mixed with the hunger of a child for parental approval. "I'm sure she still loves you." He jerked, his gaze snapping to hers. "What?" Barriss shrugged, slightly uncomfortable, not really understanding the deep emotional attachment he had to his mother. "I hear that mothers love their children no matter what. She'll be very proud of you." Anakin's face colored. "I don't think I can do this." "Not even to end the dreams?" The color drained from his face and he squared his shoulders. "Isn't it better to not know, sometimes?" "Maybe." Barriss agreed. "But we're both hurting because of these dreams, Anakin. We're here; it doesn't make any sense not to say hello and see if we can't discredit those dreams." "True." His answer was reluctant Barriss placed her hands over his where they still gripped the manual control sticks. "You'll have to let go of the yoke if we're going to do this." His fingers tensed under hers for a brief moment before relaxing. Slowly they slipped back until her hands were the only thing holding his in place. His gaze lifted to hers, the shadows of what he dreaded most flicking through his cerulean orbs. Force only know what he saw in hers. She lifted her hands, but Anakin shifted his, twisting his wrists so that he caught her fingers, twining them about his own. "Don't." Barriss managed a small smile. "At least you let go of the stick." "Barriss-" She shook her head. "Just remember our bargain, Anakin. No heroics if you don't find what you're looking for, we face this thing together. Right?" "Right." He took a deep breath. "I don't think I'm ready for this." "Who is?" Barris shifted around in the cockpit, managing to free one of her hands, but Anakin held fast to the other. Using it as leverage, she pulled him from his seat and towards the ramp. "But, it won't get any better for the waiting. Let's go." Anakin was reluctantly led from the craft and out into the blazing dual suns of Tatooine's desert. Barriss flinched, pulling the hood of her Jedi cloak up over sensitive eyes with one hand. In Mos Espa there had been plenty of buildings and other beings to take the mind off the horrible glare. In the middle of the Tatooine desert there were no such things; just moisture vaporator farms that were few and far between. Anakin squeezed her fingers and began walking towards the homestead. The sun beat down upon them, but Barriss was more focused on watching Anakin than her own discomfiture. He stopped, several times, and she had to nudge him forward. Anakin was surveying the area with a concerned, but critical, eye. As if sizing up the home of the family his mother had been made a part of. "Meet them first," Barriss told him pointedly, nodding to one of the robots that was working on a nearby vaporator. "Why don't you introduce yourself and see if she's here before you make assumptions?" But Anakin wasn't listening. He'd turned to the droid and, to Barriss' surprise amazement, picked up his pace. His gaze was critical as he circled the droid, drawing its attention, as if looking for defects. "Oh, hello. I am C-" "3P0?" Anakin's incredulity was shocked, but pleased. The droid's reaction was instantaneous and delighted, surprised Barriss almost as much as Anakin's recognition of the droid had. "Master Ani! It's so good to see you! And who's this?" Barriss wondered if she should extend her hand for a handshake but decided against it. "I'm Jedi Padawan Barriss Offee." "Delighted to meet you, Padawan Offee. I am C-" "3P0 is a protocol droid." Anakin finished, cutting off the droid with a half-smile. "I built him when I was nine to help mom around the house." He looked back to the droid. "I've come to see her - if she's here." C3P0 looked from Anakin to Barriss and back. "Perhaps we had best go inside." Anakin and Barriss shared a look, and Barriss could see Anakin anticipating the worst, the crushing weight of his dreams returning to choke him even as he tried to keep hope that she'd be found. She reached out, grasping his hand and squeezed. The shadow around him eased its hold as he squeezed her hand back. They followed 3P0 into the small home, having to relinquish their grip on one another to navigate the small stairwell that dropped into the central section of the below-ground, but open air, home. 3P0 stopped at the bottom, waiting for them to catch up. The area was silent, and Barriss' hand inched towards the lightsaber on her belt as a feeling of unease crept over her. 3P0 didn't appear to have any qualms, starting out across the sandy bowl towards an alcove at the other side. Barriss slid her hand around Anakin's arm and into the crook of his elbow, her gaze darting left and right. "I don't like this. It's too quiet." Anakin glanced at her but she could tell by the set of his shoulders he was uneasy too. 3P0 had been a welcome surprise, but now, inside this sunken home, they were both on edge. The droid stopped across the bowl and motioned for them to follow. Anakin started to, but Barriss held him back a moment, her eyes on the droid. "Be careful." "I don't sense hostile intentions." He told her frankly. "Neither do I, but it feels like something's happening, something-" "Ani? My little Ani? Is that you?" Both of their heads came up and Barriss caught Anakin's stunned look even as dissolved into a boyish grin of delight and wonder. "Mom!" Barriss' gaze turned back to the woman but she only caught a glimpse as Anakin darted across the sandy floor and swept the older woman into a tight hug. He was laughing, a sound of pure delight that was almost painful to listen to as he swung her around. The older woman was laughing too, tears streaming down her cheeks as her arms remained firmly around the neck of her grown up son. Anakin finally set her down on her own feet and then hugged her again, his arms tight around her waist. Barriss had to turn her face away, her own eyes swimming with tears, as she fought off a sudden wave of jealousy. Anakin's mother was alive and well - a woman who had missed him dearly. It clearly showed in her posture and expression. Her own mother probably didn't remember her. She saw Anakin pull away from his mother out of the corner of her eye and darted another look as Shmi - for she could be no other - examined Anakin critically. "You're so handsome!" Barriss stifled a laugh at the shocked look on Shmi's face and spoke without thinking. "Don't tell him too often or it'll go to his head." Anakin flushed and grinned sheepishly as Shmi turned a surprised look Barriss' way. "This is Barriss, mom, she's learning to be a Jedi just like me." "Is she now?" Shmi teased her son with a knowing look as her worn face was split by a welcoming smile. She held her hand out to Barriss. Barriss took it gingerly and was shocked by the firmness of it. "Shmi Skywalker-Lars. Anakin's mother." Barriss shook the other woman's hand and cast a glance at Anakin. "It's my pleasure to meet the woman responsible for such a courageous and selfless Jedi Padawan." Anakin blushed, even as Shmi's smile was all maternal pride. "The pleasure is mine, Barriss. Can I offer either of you anything? There's likely something in the cooler. Cleigg and Owen have gone to pick up Beru but they should be back soon." "I'd love something." Barriss told her honestly. "The air here is dryer than I'm used to." They retired to the kitchen, where Anakin was fussed over by his mother, and even Barriss - the uncomfortable recipient of such maternal attentions - could understand why he'd missed her. It was nice to have someone look after you on occasion and to care enough to want to look after you. Barriss watched, amused, as Shmi settled them both comfortably and then wanted to know all about Anakin's training. Everything. Every scraped knee, every fight he'd been in and the missions he'd been on. Barriss listened avidly as Anakin recounted a good portion of his childhood, fascinated by his perspective as a child that hadn't been brought to the temple at a really young age. Finally, Anakin reached the mission on Ansion and, to Barriss surprise, he scaled back his telling, as if it had been no more than a regular, run-of-the-mill mission. Like they hadn't been in mortal danger more than once, hounded by assassins and creatures that were at the mercy of the windy world. She met his gaze once, while he was explaining their run in with the different tribes and arched her eyebrows. He smiled sheepishly, interrupting his tale. "Sorry mom, Barriss thinks I'm being too modest as to the dangers we faced. Maybe she should tell this one." Barriss chuckled, shaking her head. "I think he's trying not to scare you, Mrs... er..." "Just Shmi, Barriss." Rescued, Barriss smiled gratefully. "I think Anakin's trying not to scare you with what we do, Shmi. We had considerable trouble and plenty of problems on Ansion he's simply glossed over." Anakin blushed. "What about you mom, Is it true what Watto told me? That this Lars fellow bought, freed and married you?" Shmi nodded, sipping her beverage. "He saw me shortly after you left and offered to buy me from Watto. Watto agreed - he needed the credits after ruining himself on the race you won - and Cleigg brought me here." "He didn't force you to stay?" "Cleigg is a good man, Anakin," Shmi told him with a gentle smile. Barriss had noted that Shmi wasn't a loud woman, but a woman who meant what she said and picked her words carefully. "He loves me and I him. I hope you're happy for us; I'd like you to be friends if nothing else." Anakin reached out and squeezed her fingers. "I'm happy you were able to escape the life of a slave, mom. If he makes you happy, I'm sure I'll like him." Shmi turned to look at Barriss, cocking her head at the young woman. "And you, Barriss?" Barriss shrugged. "I have no say in the matter - I'm just here for moral support." Shmi looked from one Jedi to the other and Anakin ducked his gaze. Barriss could tell he was trying not to remember what had brought him here in the first place and failing. Shmi seemed to note the same as she focused on her son. "Ani? Is something wrong?" Anakin's ragged breath had Barriss scooting closer, placing her hand on his knee under the table and squeezing. His hand dropped from the table to top to land on hers and the squeeze he gave her fingers made one of them crack at the joint. She winced. "Give him a minute; it's tough." Shmi did just that, gently stroking the hand she still held as she watched Anakin concerned. Barriss stared at him, and he looked up just long enough to meet her gaze. She saw pleading in it, the silent plea to take this burden from him. Barriss pretended to misunderstand and, not looking at Shmi, one hand captured in his, the other clenched around the Japor snippet, finally spoke. "What Anakin hasn't yet told you, Shmi, is that he lost someone very close to him this last week." "Oh Ani!" Shmi rounded the table, sliding in beside Anakin and wrapping her arms about him. "Not your Master, I hope." He shook his head. Barriss could see tears had lined his lashes, but these ones didn't fall despite the pain that was etched in his expression. "Padmé was assassinated this week, mom." "Padmé!" Shmi repeated the name on a gasp. "That delightfully polite little girl who wanted to keep your safe from the pod race?" Anakin nodded miserably. "She was speaking out against the military creation act on Coruscant - she was head of the movement-" There was no mistaking the pride under Anakin's pain. "-and someone who wanted her silenced had her killed. She used a decoy but it wasn't enough. They killed her because someone didn't like what she had to say." "Oh, Ani, I'm so sorry. I know you liked her." Anakin let go of Barriss' hand and hugged his mother, letting the feel of security and unconditional acceptance seep into his body even as he came to the dawning realization that it didn't hurt as much. Ever since he'd done as Barriss had suggested and said his goodbyes, Padmé's death had been easier to bear. Like he'd closed the door on a part of his life and opened the door to the next. He pulled away, managing a smile and gently kissed his mother's cheek. "I missed you mom." "And I you." Shmi's smile was almost as sad as his. She'd met Padmé and been impressed by the girl's gumption. "I'm sorry you lost a friend, Ani." "Me too. But Barriss has been wonderful." The smile he sent Barriss' way was thankful. "I wouldn't have been able to come as far as I have without her." "Shmi?" They all jumped at the sound of the rough voice, a worried tone lacing the call. Shmi smiled, her face acquiring a delighted glow. "Cleigg!" She squeezed Anakin's shoulder before pulling herself from the bench to stand behind him. "I'm in here, Cleigg!" "By the twin suns, woman, are you trying to - who's this?" Anakin got his first look at the man his mother had married. Grizzled, his face sporting a day's worth of whiskers that were graying, Cleigg Lars had sharp brown eyes that studied Anakin intently. They were wary, but also took note of the protective and proud way Shmi's hands lay on Anakin's shoulders. The wariness dispersed and a smile lit the older man's features. "Is this-?" Barriss saw the affectionate look that passed between Shmi and Cleigg and blushed. There was no doubt in her mind that they were together mutually. Shmi's words were soft, but full of pride. "Cleigg, I'd like you to meet my son, Anakin. Anakin, this is my husband, Cleigg." Anakin stood and Cleigg was forced to look up at him as he did so. Barriss bit the inside of her cheek as Anakin reached his full height, watching as Cleigg seemed to have to reevaluate the initial impression. Cleigg was a short, stocky man who was only slightly taller than Shmi. Anakin, a full head and shoulders taller than his mother, dwarfed the older man. Cleigg looked from Anakin to Shmi, and back before offering his hand. "A pleasure to meet you, son. Your mother speaks very highly of you." Anakin flushed. "I can't thank you enough for saving her from Watto... sir..." His thanks was clumsy, but heartfelt. "She's happier than I've ever seen her." Cleigg's eyes went back to his wife and Shmi, a soft smile on her face, shrugged. "He's right. I'm happier here with you than I have been since Anakin left to become a Jedi." "I'm not a Jedi yet," Anakin turned his pleading look on Barriss, a cry for obvious help. Barriss arched her eyebrows at him as if to say, then do something about it. Anakin nodded to her, drawing Cleigg's attention away from him and his mother. "This is Barriss Offee, she's my-" "Girlfriend?" Cleigg grinned knowingly, finishing his sentence. "A mite pretty thing at that." Barriss blushed. "I think Anakin was going to say colleague, Mr. Lars. But thank you for the compliment." Cleigg grinned knowingly, moving to slip an arm around his wife's waist. "Well, now that the whole family's here, I think Owen just might like to meet you, Anakin. Owen's your step brother - my son by my first wife." Anakin watched Cleigg whisk his mother away and out into the main area of the homestead and frowned. Barriss moved close and laid her hand on his arm with a knowing smile. "He loves your mother Anakin." He made a face. "I don't care; I just want her to myself for a while." Barriss chuckled. "Spoiled brat," she admonished gently. "You've a family waiting with open arms to accept you and all you can see is what you don't have. Cleigg didn't just buy your mother, Anakin; he rescued her and won her. Surely you don't begrudge her that." "No." He sighed, smiling a petulant smile that was tinged with remorse. "How'd you get so smart anyway?" "I think it's easier being on the outside looking in - I never had what you're being offered. I've never even dreamed of what you're being offered. But, if you accept, the attachment will go against you at your knighting." He pulled her into his arms, feeling the hurt in her words, and the gentle admonishment. "I can't thank you enough for dragging me here." Barriss closed her eyes, returning his hug completely. "Thanks for letting me tag along. I'm glad things were different than what we expected." "Me too, Barriss." His words were whispered, gently and fervently against her forehead. "Me too." "Barriss." Barriss woke instantly, her lightsaber in hand as she rolled towards the voice that called her name. A muffled shriek and soft laugher accompanied her tumble off the bed. She threw the covers away , her grin turning sheepish as she saw who'd woken her. "Sorry. I guess I'm a bit paranoid." Shmi helped the young woman untangle herself from the blankets before settling on the edge of Barriss' bunk. Barriss cocked her head at Anakin's mother. "If it's not too forward, what are you doing in my room in the middle of the night?" "It's early morning," Shmi corrected, keeping her voice low. "Mushrooms grow on the vapourators and I was wondering if you'd like to come with Beru and I to pick them." Barriss' smile turned delighted. "I'd love to." -----signature----- You'll Like me when I'm Dead - V/P Dark Drama - http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/29236355 Don't think, write. And have faith that your subconscious mind is smarter than you.- lazy RIP my little Nibbler
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obsessedwithSW Registered: May '05	Date Posted: 2/20/07 8:00pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	Barriss woke instantly, her lightsaber in hand as she rolled towards the voice that called her name. A muffled shriek and soft laugher accompanied her tumble off the bed. She threw the covers away , her grin turning sheepish as she saw who'd woken her. "Sorry. I guess I'm a bit paranoid." Shmi helped the young woman untangle herself from the blankets before settling on the edge of Barriss' bunk. Barriss cocked her head at Anakin's mother. "If it's not too forward, what are you doing in my room in the middle of the night?" "It's early morning," Shmi corrected, keeping her voice low. "Mushrooms grow on the vapourators and I was wondering if you'd like to come with Beru and I to pick them." Barriss' smile turned delighted. "I'd love to." Jade please tell me Barriss will help save Shmi not join her! -----signature----- Yes Darth Maul -bring sexy back! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JW8kOYvwVng Avid SiriWaner ! Stories in Bio
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little_miss_jedi Registered: Aug '05	Date Posted: 2/20/07 8:43pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	YAY!!! I was hoping you wouldn't kill Shmi... don't take me off the PM list. I'm looking forward to more! -----signature----- "You power crazed, obnoxious, ludicrous little jerk." Don't Go: http://boards.theforce.net/Message.aspx?topic=28203894&brd=10476&replies=0 Jacen Solo - Forever in the light... :'(
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EverydayAngel Registered: Sep '06	Date Posted: 2/20/07 9:55pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	great update I hope Barriss' presence can change events Aww i loved the reunion. I felt so bad for Barriss Her own mother probably didn't remember her. A woman doesn't forget her child but poor Barriss. I love all the sensitive hand holding betweeen Anakin & Barriss.
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HandmaidenVeme Registered: Jun '04	Date Posted: 2/20/07 11:11pm Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	"It's early morning," Shmi corrected, keeping her voice low. "Mushrooms grow on the vapourators and I was wondering if you'd like to come with Beru and I to pick them." Barriss' smile turned delighted. "I'd love to." Oh no! I've got a bad feeling about this ! -----signature----- Angel #1 the "Mischievous" one "Anakin Skywalker's Towel Girl" Team Edward!
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Valairy_Scot Title: PT Rewrite Winner Registered: Sep '05	Date Posted: 2/21/07 2:04am Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	He shrugged. His solemn countenance returned suddenly. "I hope whoever this Lars guy is, he's treating her well." Barriss chuckled softly. "Anakin, what kind of man buys a slave and frees her to marry her if he wasn't going to treat her right? Without the Republic's anti-slavery laws, he could have done anything he wanted with her." Anakin stopped, looking as if she's just sucker punched him. "What?" He gaped at her and then smiled sheepishly. "I hadn't thought of it like that. But you're right. With the Hutts controlling Tatooine and endorsing slavery, this Lars guy could have bade her do anything on punishment of death. Still..." She jabbed her elbow into his ribs unkindly. "How about you don't make assumptions before we find them? Who knows, maybe by now you have a younger brother or sister." Anakin really needs someone like Barriss to keep him thinking straight. Great update, but oh oh - mushroom picking? Not good. -----signature----- http://boards.theforce.net/fan_fiction_resource/b10304/25405090/p3/?52 Prolific Author thread: list & links there. Muse fueled by coffee. Often AWOL despite frequent sipping. Writes on inspiration, not a schedule. Proud master of several padawans
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CodyMonKenobi Registered: Jan '01	Date Posted: 2/21/07 3:00am Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	God I cant take it, I want more. I hope Bariss can save Shmi, I don't want Anakin to lose her again. Thanks for the pm. -----signature----- We rednecks like to stay with-in the four main food groups. Steak, potatoes, gravy, and beer, with hard liquor in moderation. U.S. Army Field Artillery The Blood of Patriots http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/24316253/p
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KELIA Title: Fan Fiction Moderator Registered: Jul '05	Date Posted: 2/21/07 3:40am Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	Uh oh, Shmi and Barriss are going to pick mushrooms... Though with Barriss there, perhaps the two will stand a chance against the Raiders. I loved the reunion between Anakin and Shmi Wonderful update -----signature----- "Do or do not, there is no try." Master Yoda A Light In The Darkness: http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/28150602/p1/?8 Undue Circumstances: http://boards.theforce.net/the_saga/b10476/28530583/p1/?10
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VaderLVR64 Title: Fan Fic Manager in Combat Boots Registered: Feb '04	Date Posted: 2/21/07 7:05am Subject: RE: Tragedy on the Landing Pad - Anakin/Barriss, AotC AU. (Short Story, possibly epic)
	"Barriss." Barriss woke instantly, her lightsaber in hand as she rolled towards the voice that called her name. A muffled shriek and soft laugher accompanied her tumble off the bed. She threw the covers away , her grin turning sheepish as she saw who'd woken her. "Sorry. I guess I'm a bit paranoid." Shmi helped the young woman untangle herself from the blankets before settling on the edge of Barriss' bunk. Barriss cocked her head at Anakin's mother. "If it's not too forward, what are you doing in my room in the middle of the night?" "It's early morning," Shmi corrected, keeping her voice low. "Mushrooms grow on the vapourators and I was wondering if you'd like to come with Beru and I to pick them." Barriss' smile turned delighted. "I'd love to." Okay, is this good or bad? I'm going to hope that it will change things for the better. So there. A WONDERFUL update. Loved the interaction between Anakin and his mother, and then his impressions of Cliegg. -----signature----- If you have to choose between tears and laughter, remember that laughter burns more calories. Army Mom! HOOAH! Adopt a soldier: http://soldiersangels.org/
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