Saga Heart of a Jedi - H/L L/M O/P - Chapters 14-31 posted! Story finished!

LOL Love the consensus about understanding the opposite sex - or not

 

LOL! I always seem to be inspired by whatever TV show I'm addicted to at the moment. Now it's Dallas. So if everyone is backstabbing and trying to get away with murder (or other such things) and it's hard keeping up with who's cheating who....you will know who to blame. The Ewings.

And here is the final post for this week! See? I promised a bit more Han this time. And ONE of these days, Han and Leia are going to meet up with each other! I promise!

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Chapter Six

Roonadan

The Dogger dropped out of hyperspace over the dusty world of Roonadan, and was immediately met by a Dreadnought heavy cruiser with Corporate Sector markings, which was skillfully maneuvered to put itself between their ship and the planet.

“Shields up?” Obi-Wan asked Luke, who was sitting in the co-pilot’s seat.

“Of course.”

“They have their weapons locked on us, and we’re being hailed,” Corran said, trying to keep his tone calm. He was currently acting as navigator, while checking the communication panel.

“Put them through,” Obi-Wan ordered.

A male voice came over the speaker. “This is the Corporate Sector cruiser Independence. Cap… err, Admiral Han Solo here. State your name and your business over Roonadan.”

“This is the Republic shuttle Dogger. My name is Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, and I am here with my two Jedi assistants, Corran Horn and Luke Naberrie. We have been requested by Senator Amidala of Naboo to conduct a meeting with Prime Minister Limpan regarding the charges that President Tarkin has leveled against the Corporate Sector.”

There was a lengthy pause before the Admiral spoke again. “Prime Minister Limpan never told me about this meeting.”

“Maybe the Prime Minister doesn’t feel the need to inform his flunkies about his daily plans,” Luke snipped.

“What…what did you just call me?”

Obi-Wan glared at Luke, and made a slashing motion under his chin and quickly spoke into the comm panel, “I’m sorry to say that due to the circumstances, this information could not be made public.”

“I ain’t exactly what you’d call the ‘public’ here,” Solo snapped, sounding very annoyed. “How would you like it if I’d blasted your tails back to Coruscant?”

“Oh, yeah?” Luke shouted into the comink. “Try and say that to our faces. We’re Jedi Knights, you know.”

“I don’t care if you’re the glitz band PuffyMan and the Cooterfish,” Solo shouted back, his anger growing by second. “I haven’t got authorization to let an enemy ship land!”

“What kind of Admiral are you, anyway?” Luke shot out. “The Corporate Sector must be desperate to fill up their military ranks if they hired you.”

“WHAT?!”

“I am truly sorry, Admiral Solo,” Obi-Wan interrupted, trying his best to be civilized since the situation had completely deteriorated into a shouting match. “We truly have come here trying to prevent a war. Please give us some courtesy and contact Prime Minister Limpan. I’m sure you will find that he is expecting us.”

There was a few more moments of silence, then the Admiral replied, “I suppose I can do that. It’s not like your ship can do much damage to mine, even if you are fancy Jedi Knights. Hang onto your lightsticks, and I’ll contact the head honchos.”

The comlink clicked off, and Corran started laughing. “Are you trying to get us killed, Naberrie?”

“The guy’s a jerk.”

“He’s a jerk with a really, really big ship, though.”

Obi-Wan nodded his agreement. “You must learn to be more diplomatic, Luke.”

“Leia got more of the diplomat in her blood,” Luke said. “I like to say what I think. It’s less confusing that way.”

The older Jedi could only sigh and shake his head in dismay while Luke strained to look past the large Dreadnought. He noted the planet seemed similar in appearance to Tatooine, except for the fact that this planet’s inhabitants had artificially created green spaces to make living there somewhat more bearable.

After a while, Luke said, “I wonder what’s taking the jerk so long?”

“It takes time to go through layers of red-tape, Luke,” Obi-Wan said.

Just then, the communication board gave a beep, and Corran opened up the channel.

“Apparently, I’m supposed to let you guys through. It’d be nice if someone had thought to let me know this ahead of time,” Solo commented.

“Ha,” Luke said smugly. “We told you so.”

“We appreciate your courtesy, Admiral -.” Obi-Wan never got to finish what he was saying, as another large Dreadnought dropped out of hyperspace. This one was clearly marked as a Republic ship and it immediately started firing at Admiral Solo’s ship.

**

Urdur

The frigate carrying Master Jedi Hal Horn and his two Jedi assistants Leia Naberrie and Mara Jade, entered orbit over the cold, blue planet of Urdur. They were not met with a war ship to block their progress, only a polite, automated voice requesting their identity.

Mara looked down at the readouts, showing the planet’s life signs and temperature. “Who would want to live in this cold place?”

“More to the point, if this is the planet where this supposed Galactic Sonic weapon is being built, where is all the security?” Leia questioned.

Hal smiled as he entered their ships code into the responder, and sent the reply to the planet’s flight controller. “The air is perfectly breathable, and while the gravity is a bit on the light side, the beings that live on this planet have built several enclosed, climate controlled cities. Not too unlike the underwater Gungan cities on Naboo. We should be perfectly comfortable while we do our investigation. Although, I do agree with you, Jedi Leia. If this were the home to some secret, super weapon, we should be seeing a bit more paranoia over our unexpected arrival.”

“Where are we going to land?” Mara questioned.

“I’ve requested a landing in the largest dome,” Hal replied, glancing down at the control panel. “We’ve been given permission and a landing dock location.”

“I sure hope we aren’t walking into a trap,” Mara said. “I hate traps.”

**

Death Star
Orbiting over Despayre

Inside the enormous hanger, Admiral Daala bowed her head in respect as the Falleen exited his shuttle and swaggered in her direction.

“Lord Xizor,” Daala said, keeping her head down, “I was not expecting you to come on this mission.”

“Surely you didn’t think I’d miss the inaugural flight of my magnificent battle station,” Xizor replied, putting his long, sharp fingernail under Daala’s chin and forcing her to look in his face. “I’ve heard the troops are referring to this as the Death Star. I like the sound of that. It has a pleasant ring to it.”

“Yes, Lord Xizor.” She felt a shiver run down her spine, aware of his pheromones pulsating in her direction, and unable to stop her body from responding to them.

“I’ve hired only the best to run it, you know. The best engineers. The best pilots and navigators. The best fighter pilots.”

“I’ve noticed that most of them are Clone Troopers,” Daala said, her voice thick. “Cloning is illegal.”

Xizor laughed. “So is slavery, but without slaves this station would never have been built in such a short amount of time, and within financial possibility. Do you honestly believe that creating clones to man this vessel would bother me in the slightest?”

“No, Your Lordship.”

He turned his gaze to the ceiling and spun around on his toes, looking over everything that could be seen from their vantage point. “What do you think of my masterpiece, Admiral?”

“It seems… rather ostentatious.”

“It is. It truly is,” Xizor replied, pleased. “Now, you will escort me to my personal suite and I will demonstrate my ostentatious talents to you in private as we travel to Urdur.”

Daala’s eyes widened. “Lord Xizor… I’m not certain we should…”

“I am,” he interrupted tightly. “Why do you think I wanted a female in command? Are you questioning my authority on my… Death Star?”

“Never, my Lord.”

He smiled, pleased at her capitulation.

**

Coruscant

Senator Amidala rushed into the classroom, ignoring the startled looks from the small group of younglings as they tore their attention away from Master Yoda’s instructions.

“I’m sorry to interrupt, Master Yoda,” Padme said breathlessly. “I have to speak to you.”

Yoda nodded, waving at the students. “Lunch time, it is. Eat you must.” He waited until the children had left before turning to look up at Padme. “Important, this must be.”

“I’ve heard from my sources that Tarkin has sent a Dreadnought to Roonadan. He’s planning on attacking the Corporate Sector, with or without Supreme Court approval.”

“Foolish he is. Impeachment this will cause for him.”

“He has something up his sleeve, Master Yoda. I have to go to Roonadan and speak directly to Prime Minister Limpan, or he’s going to think I was aware of Tarkin’s plan.”

“And worried you are about Luke and Obi-Wan.”

Padme flushed. “Of course. Luke is my son, and Obi-Wan is my friend. I tried to warn them, but they must be still traveling through hyperspace. Either that… or I’m already too late.” She shut her eyes, unable to think too long about losing the two men in her life that she loved so deeply.

Yoda sighed. “Love Obi-Wan, you do.”

“How can you tell?” she asked, shocked at his observation. “Are you using the Force?”

“No, no…” Yoda clucked in disgust. “Unnecessary is it to use the Force to sense when humans are in love with each other.”

“Each… other?”

“Loves you, Obi-Wan does, as well. I cannot seem to stop this emotion called love, try as I might.”

“Will you go with me to Roonadan?”

“If I say no, then go without me you will, am I correct?”

“Yes.”

“Then go to Roonadan we shall, although no good shall come of it.”

Padme gave a wide smile. “Thank you, Master Yoda.”


“Thank me now you do. Hate me later you might.”

 

Xizor and Daala - What a love match that is, not! Luke -- I did love his nondiplomatic response to Han And Padme & Yoda

 

I'm behind again!! argh!! But Luke! hahahahaha Him and Han snipping at each other was great. But Luke needs to learn to control his temper if he's going to be a Jedi Knight! But Xizor and Daala--that's enough to give me nightmares!!

Great update, and I can't wait to read more!!!

 

Thanks for reading, ginchy and Nyota's Heart! I haven't updated in a long time... but here is the next chapter!

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Chapter Seven

Space over Roonadan

The Republic ship blasted away at the Corporate Sector dreadnaught, intent on destroying it. After a few tense moments, the Bothan situated at the weapons display turned to his commander. "Sir, we are taking a huge risk. The Jedi vessel is situated directly between us and the CSA vessel. They've already taken several hits, and their shields are down to twenty percent."

"That's their problem," the General replied. "It's called collateral damage. We will not let up on our attack. Send out the X-Wing squadron." In fact, the older human had to repress a grin as he gazed out the viewport. Destroying the Jedi ship would be a bonus, and his report would simply state the CSA ship was responsible. With all the ensuing fire, it would be impossible to determine whose shot made the actual kill, anyway.

A few moments later, the small Jedi shuttle took another direct hit, and its lights flickered out.

"Sir? The Jedi vessel is asking for assistance. They have lost their main power and their life-support is failing. They need to dock."

"Ignore them and keep the docking bays closed. We're busy."

"But…"

The Republic General spun around to face his communications officer. "Are you questioning my orders?"

"No, Sir."

**

​

Admiral Han Solo was furious. "We've been set up," he snapped out to his bridge crew. "Send out a squadron of Z-95's and call for more backup."

"Our outgoing signal is being blocked, sir," a rather young, skinny ensign replied, his shaky voice betraying his fear.

"Great," Han muttered in disgust, struggling to recall the kid's name. He doubted it would matter much longer, since this probably wasn't going to end well for him or his inexperienced crew. "Put the Independence between that Republic ship, and the Jedi transport." The Corellian watched as the large Republic Dreadnaught shifted through the darkness of space, trying to get a clear shot. So far, their shields were holding and they were managing to pound the Republic ship as much as it was pounding them.

"Sir?"

"Yeah?"

"The Jedi transport Dogger has taken a nasty hit and is hailing us."

"How did they get hit? We aren't targeting them."

"I do believe it was the Republic ship that accidentally shot them. They might be in serious trouble."

"I couldn't care less," Han replied darkly. "If they're in trouble, let them contact their own people." At that moment, one of his Z-95 pilots got in a nice, clean shot on the Republic's Dreadnaught, sending up a spray of sparks. The Republic ship trembled and starting listing to one side.

"We've taken out their rear deflectors, sir," a young woman named Lieutenant Nouri stated.

"And now the Republic Dreadnaught is trying to contact us."

"Yeah, having your tail on fire has a tendency to make people chatty," Han said, smirking. "Patch 'em through, but don't stop firing."

A crackling voice came through the speaker. "Corporate Authority ship, this is General Crix Madine of the Republic ship, Resolution. You are threatening and interfering with a Jedi transport that is on a diplomatic mission. You are hereby ordered to surrender, or you will be destroyed."

For a few seconds, Han was completely taken aback. Madine? The same low-life that kicked him out of the Corellian Navy for stopping a slave ship?

"Are you Corellian by any chance, Crix Madine?" Han asked, unable to stop himself. If it were the same Madine, Han suspected the man was simply playing for time while trying to repair the damage to his ship.

"Yes, although I have no idea why that would matter."

"I would've thought a lazy gundark like you would've retired a long time ago," Han mused aloud. "You must be older than the Tanabe mountains by now."

"Who is this?" Madine demanded.

"Doubt very much you remember little ole me," Han said conversationally. "I was only a young, and idealistic lieutenant when you pretty much destroyed my life. But I'm good at picking myself up and dusting myself off, so now I'm an Admiral with the Corporate Sector and I'm about to blow you and your lousy ship into space dust." Han hesitated for a heartbeat, and then added, "Admiral Han Solo out." He turned to face his bridge crew. "Don't make me a liar, people. Blow them apart."

**

​

Urdur

No sooner had they exited their ship than the three Jedi were surprised to find themselves surrounded by a large squadron of the CSA Police. Their weapons were drawn, and they appeared to mean business.

"Yup," Mara said with a sigh. "A trap. How'd I know?"

Leia held up a hand in a gesture of peace. "We aren't here to cause trouble."

"In my long experience, that is usually a signal for the bad guys to start firing," Horn stated worriedly as he put his hand close to his lightsaber. Judging by the sheer numbers, it would be difficult to deflect that much blasterfire.

Instead of opening fire, a slender woman stepped forward. "My name is Jessa Solo. My father is Governor of Urdur, and I'm here on his behalf. I apologize if greeting you with a squadron of troops seems a bit unfriendly, but you have to consider the facts from my perspective."

Hal Horn smiled politely. "I am Jedi Master Horn, and with me is Jedi Leia Naberrie and Jedi Mara Jade."

"We've come here to try and prevent a war," Leia said, her inner diplomat kicking into high gear.

"Really?" Jessa arched a blonde eyebrow. "It seems your President Tarkin is intent on war."

"Yes, but if we can prove his allegations against the Corporate Sector are false, the Senate may see fit to reverse their course," Mara said.

"May see fit?" Jessa questioned. "But maybe not? They didn't feel the need for much evidence to vote in favor the first time around."

"We are aware of that," Horn said. "Which is why Senator Amidala and Jedi Master Yoda sent us on this fact-finding mission."

Jessa tilted up her chin, pursing her lips thoughtfully. "I see no reason why you can't snoop around until your convinced there is no super-weapon being constructed on Urdur."

"Do you mind if we have our droids tag along?" Leia asked.

"Of course not."

Leia signaled toward the lowered ramp of their ship, and a few moments later a golden protocol droid exited, followed by a small blue and white astromech droid. "Hello," the tall droid said upon approaching the group. "My name is C-3PO and I am fluent in over six million forms of communications." The smaller droid gave a toot, and Threepio added, 'Oh, yes. I was getting to you, Artoo. Don't be so impatient. Not everything is about you, you know." He tilted his head toward Jessa. "This is my companion, R2-D2. I am afraid his communication skills are rather limited, which is why he requires my assistance in almost everything."

"I can understand why my husband doesn't much like droids."

"He does not care for droids?" Threepio asked, sounding appalled. "That's most incredible."

Jessa faced the guards and gave a hand signal and the CSA police immediately turned and left. She then turned back to the Jedi. "If you'll follow me, we can go to my home for lunch. We have enough room space that you can stay for as long as your investigation requires, if that's what you desire."

"Are you sure your husband won't mind?" Hal questioned.

"My husband is currently away on a mission to Roonadan," Jessa replied. "I hope you don't mind children, though. Our daughter is only a year old, and she can get quite loud and boisterous when we have guests."

Leia smiled. "You have a little girl? I love younglings."

"I'm sure you plan on having family of your own in the future," Jessa said without thinking, watching Leia lose her smile. Then she froze slightly, realizing that she'd heard that Jedi were not supposed to marry. Or was that rule in the past? "I'm sorry… I shouldn't presume…"

It was Hal that answered. "I was married, and I have a son, Mrs. Solo. Although Master Yoda seems to cling to the Old Order rules, I do believe that times are changing for the Jedi. I wouldn't be surprised if Jedi Leia has a family someday."

Leia looked over at Master Horn and thought about Corran, and felt herself blush madly. Was it possible that Corran had already discussed his desire to marry her with his father? And how would Master Horn feel about her once he found out she wasn't in love with his son? Oh, why did life have to be so complicated?

**

​

Space over Roonadan

Onboard the Resolution

General Crix Madine was livid. Alarms were ringing loudly throughout the ship, warning occupants of imminent systems failure. Technicians were frantically working to restore shielding as well as several decks' life support. It was bad enough that he'd have to issue the order to withdraw, which would infuriate President Tarkin, but to withdraw meant that Solo had bested him in this battle. And his X-Wing pilots weren't faring much better against the CSA Z-95 pilots, and that was nothing other than embarrassing. It was very possible that Tarkin would demand his resignation over this debacle.

Madine, however, was a practical man. He had been around long enough to know when it was time to pull back and live to fight another day. So, despite the bitter taste the words left on his tongue, he gave the order, "Have the X-Wings return to the Resolution, and prepare to jump into hyperspace the moment they are inside."

Although his crew quickly obeyed his orders, he could tell this defeat had lowered their opinion of his ability to command. Solo would someday pay the price for his humiliation, even if he had to wait a decade to exact his revenge.

**

​

"We have only five minutes of life-support left," Corran said, trying not to sound frantic.

Obi-Wan was already inside the ship's lower decking panels, desperately trying to repair the damage. "Luke? Has the Resolution responded yet?" he called up from inside the ship's interior.

"No."

"What about the CSA ship?"

"They're ignoring us, too."

"After how you spoke to the Admiral, that doesn't surprise me," Corran snapped out. "But I don't understand why our Republic isn't replying? Maybe the comm panel is trashed."

"Don't you think I've already checked that out?" Luke barked back at his friend. "I'm not stupid."

"Now, let's not spend our last five minutes of oxygen arguing," Obi-Wan muffled voice said from the floor.

"We're dead," Corran muttered unhappily. "I never even told Leia that I loved her."

"Spare me. You're not the only one in this ship that's going to die pure and unsullied," Luke griped. "It isn't fair."

"Could you boys please keep your attention on what you're supposed to be doing, and not think about females for one second?" Obi-Wan yelled up.

Corran looked out of the viewport at the battle scene. "It's not looking good for our side, Master Kenobi. The Resolution has taken a lot of hits."

"The remaining X-Wings are heading back to the ship, which probably means they're getting ready to leave," Luke added. "Maybe we can sneak inside with them?"

"We don't have power," Corran pointed out. "We'd need for them to tractor us in."

"Try raising the Resolution again," Obi-Wan said as he pulled himself up from inside the maintenance access chamber in the floor of the shuttle. "They are our only hope."

"Still nothing," Corran grumbled as he fiddled with the comm panel. "Three minutes of life support left."

Obi-Wan pointed out of the viewport. "The Resolution is positioning itself to make the jump into hyperspace." And as those words left his mouth, the Resolution disappeared into the blackness of space.

"That's it then," Luke stated grimly. "We're dead in two minutes." Just then, their shuttle gave an unexpected lurch. Luke looked over at Corran. "We've got power?"

"No," Corran answered. "The Independence's just grabbed us."

 

Yay an update and full of snark and Correllian shrewdness.

 

- Thank you for reading and commenting, Nyota's Heart! I truly appreciate it! Luke WILL do a lot of growing up in this story, but he's not done being a brat quite yet!

 

You know, I just haven't got a clue how to post on this anymore....

Thanks for reading and commenting, Nyota's Heart! Luke will grow up before this story ends, I promise! I will try again to post the next chapter!

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Chapter Eight

Urdur

Hal Horn, Mara, Leia and the two droids followed their hostess to her hovercraft, and made polite small talk as Jessa drove them through the winding streets. Although outside of the dome the planet's climate left much to be desired, inside it was perfectly comfortable and the dome was large enough that it didn't feel like an enclosed space.

They finally reached a residential area where Jessa parked in front of a small home, and then led the three Jedi inside. Her home was warm and cozy, and more than a bit messy. The kitchen area was in disarray and there were baby clothes and toys strewn throughout the living area. Jessa grinned and appeared to be a bit embarrassed over the clutter. She quickly started to gather up the more obvious items and said, "I'm sorry for the mess. I wasn't expecting company, and although I employ a Wookiee that tends to Callian when I'm out – Callian, that's my daughter's name – I don't have a cleaning droid, so I've been pretty much doing everything myself since Han left on his mission."

"Han would be your husband?" Hal asked politely.

"The human that doesn't care for droids?" Threepio added worriedly.

"Yes. Han Solo."

"Why does that name sound familiar to me?" Hal mused, then stopped short. "Is he a smuggler?"

Jessa gave a frown. "He was. I worked on the wrong side of the law for a while, myself. Do you have a problem with that, Jedi Horn?"

Hal grinned. "Not anymore. I worked for Corellian Security for a while, and his name came up on occasion."

"Yes, my husband is quite the scoundrel," Jessa replied, dumping the items she'd gathered up into a storage bin. "I'm sorry he's not here so you could meet him."

"So am I," Hal said with a wink. "I would like to finally see the guy that got away."

At that moment an older, female Wookiee came out from another room, carrying a squirming, crying little blonde girl. *Callian's nap seems to be over,* the Wookiee said with a tired sigh. *Not that she ever actually fell asleep.*

Jessa took the child from the woman. "Thank you, Ryyplyn. I know you try to get her to nap. I can never do it, either."

The Wookiee nodded an acknowledgement at the visitors before leaving.

"Callian seems to have arms that expand when we're not looking," Jessa said with a laugh. "I swear I've put things out of her reach, and I turn around and just like that, she's holding whatever it was I put away. I don't know how she does it."

Leia walked closer to the pretty child. "Hello, Callian." Leia looked at Jessa. "She's so darling. Can I hold her?"

"Of course you can, but I have to warn you, she cries when strangers hold her." Jessa frowned at her wailing daughter. "Well, she cries louder when strangers hold her." Jessa shifted her daughter into Leia's arms, and the child immediately quieted, smiling at Leia and tugging at her braids. "Would you look at that?" Jessa said in amazement. "You must have some special, magic touch. The only person she usually stops crying for right away is her father."

Leia smiled at Mara. "Isn't she cute? Do you want to hold her?"

Mara's eyes widened, and she took a step back. "No, thank you. I've never gotten along with babies. Hand her to Threepio."

"But, Jedi Jade," Threepio twittered nervously. "I am not programmed for nanny duties."

"She's not exactly a baby anymore," Leia pointed out, ignoring the protocol droid.

Hal moved closer to the little girl. "You say she gets toys from places she shouldn't be able to reach?"

"All the time," Jessa said. "My husband once joked that she was going to grow up and become a magician, but I didn't find that too amusing since he once dated a magician."

"I'd guess that she might grow up and become a Jedi," Hal said, to everyone's surprise.

"You think she's Force-sensitive?" Leia questioned.

"It's a strong possibility," Hal said, nodding. "We'd have to do a blood test to be certain, but even at this young age she seems to radiate through the Force."

Jessa recovered her wits and asked, "How is that possible? Neither my husband nor I are in the least bit Force-sensitive. At least, I don't think we are."

"That's not necessarily a requirement," Hal informed her. "In fact, since Jedi aren't supposed to form attachments, we would have died out generations ago if only children of Jedi were Force-sensitive."

"If she is Force-sensitive, Yoda will want to train her," Mara stated.

Jessa shrugged. "I suppose that will be her choice after she's of age to decide on her career."

"It doesn't work like that," Mara informed. "Younglings should start their training by age three or four. At least that's what Master Yoda keeps telling us."

"That isn't going to happen," Jessa replied firmly. "My husband and I have no intention of moving to Coruscant, or wherever it is you Jedi do your training, nor will we decide our child's future for her. After what happened nineteen years ago, I'm surprised you have any students."

Hal nodded his understanding. "That's true, Mrs. Solo. Still, we have to try to recruit any youngling that shows potential, especially after what occurred during Palpatine's reign of terror. If no one allows their off-spring to be trained, the future of the Jedi Knights is grim."

Jessa took Callian out of Leia's arms. "That's not my problem, Jedi Horn."

**

​

Space over Roonadan

The Dogger settled softly on the floor of one of the hangers inside the Independence and the outside door shut with a resounding clang. Obi-Wan looked out of their small ship's viewport as a large array of armed guards with weapons drawn came rushing toward their ship, surrounding them on all sides. Corran quickly opened an outside vent, and the thin air of the Dogger was once again more breathable, and the three Jedi took in an appreciative, deep gulp.

Pointing out the viewport, Corran noted, "Because of your smart mouth, Naberrie, you know you still might end up dying pure and unsullied."

Luke just glared daggers in Corran's direction as Obi-Wan stood up. "It's time to face our fate, boys," Obi-Wan said, trying to sound jolly. "Everyone play nice and refrain from making insults and threats and maybe our host will see fit to let us live."

"Solo's the one that should be worried, not us," Luke grumbled as he followed Obi-Wan from the cockpit of the small shuttle.

Keeping their hands in clear sight, the three Jedi exited the ship, watching as a tall man with a mop of dark brown hair approached them, followed closely by a towering Wookiee toting a large bowcaster. Although the human was wearing an officer's uniform, it was clear he was rather uncomfortable in the fancy suit, and had the normally tight collar unbuttoned. Luke sized up the man as he stopped walking about a dozen feet away from his 'guests.' Solo was younger than Luke had expected, perhaps five to ten years older than his own age. And judging by the scowl plastered across his face, and the fact that his hand was resting on a rather unconventional non-military type of blaster tied to his leg, he wasn't in a particularly good mood.

"You're under arrest for entering restricted space, as well as attacking my ship. You're lucky I didn't leave you out there to die," Solo ground out, his jaw tight.

"Thank you for rescuing us," Obi-Wan said with a polite nod. "Now that we meet in person, let me properly introduce myself. I am Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, and these two young men are my assistants, Jedi Luke Naberrie and Jedi Corran Horn."

"We didn't attack you," Luke immediately argued. "In fact, the Resolution was the one that shot us up!"

"And they abandoned us, too," Corran added, much to Master Kenobi's displeasure.

"Listen," Solo said, taking a few steps closer, his scowl growing harder. "I'm not an idiot. I know that your decoy ship arrived first so I'd let my guard down, and your Republic scout ship could then take us out. I don't doubt for a second your people will return, and bring an armada this time."

"Why did they shoot at us?" Luke demanded before Obi-Wan could speak. "Why did they leave us to die? For someone that claims he's not an idiot…"

"Luke!" Obi-Wan interrupted his padawan. "This is not the way we need to handle this situation."

"Yeah," Luke grumbled loudly. "Lightsabers would be more effective."

"Are you threatening me again?" Han snapped at the younger man. "Because, from where I'm standing, that wouldn't be in your best interest, kid." At this point, the Wookiee let loose with an angry growl, raising the bowcaster up to point at Luke.

"I'm not a kid!"

"And I'm not an idiot."

"Gentlemen!" Obi-Wan pleaded, "Please… can we be civil?"

"I don't know," Han groused. "Ask your whiny brat."

"I AM NOT A WHINY BRAT!" Luke lunged forward, only to find himself being restrained by Corran while the Wookiee reached forward to try and pull Han behind him.

"BOYS!" Obi-Wan shouted, trying to assert control of the situation.

Solo addressed the Wookiee, "Don't worry, Chewie. I have this under control." He then turned to address his security team. "Take their weapons and escort them into the securest cells we have onboard. I'll need to discuss this situation with Prime Minister Limpan before I send them back onto their shuttle and let them breathe space vac."

"Yeah," Luke said snidely. "Ask your keepers what you're allowed to do, first."

Han's lips tightened and he was about to respond to that comment when his comlink beeped. Irritated at the interruption, he turned it on and snapped into the device. "Admiral Solo."

"Sir? I'm sorry to interrupt you, but another Republic shuttle has just dropped out of hyperspace."

"You're kidding me."

"No, sir…. Kidding is in violation of proper protocol."

"That was sarcasm," Han said with a tired sigh.

"They are hailing us, Sir. What would you like me to do?"

"Forward the communication directly to me."

"Yes, Sir."

A moment later, Han said, "This is Admiral Solo of the Corporate Sector ship, Independence. A Republic Dreadnaught just engaged my ship in battle and were defeated prior to returning to hyperspace. The Republic has now fired the first shot in this war and since you are violating Corporate Sector space I order you to surrender immediately."

A woman's voice came over the small speaker. "My name is Senator Amidala of Naboo, and we are not leaving or surrendering until I find out what happened to my son."

"Mom?" Luke said, utterly surprised.

Han regarded Luke with a smirk. "Why am I not surprised your mommy's looking for you?"

 

The Han/Luke posturing Interesting instant bond between Leia and Callian I can completely understand Jessa's reaction.

 

I didn't know you were posting a new story, PT! I was so excited when I saw.

Great AU - intrigue, action, bickering, I love it all. And even though I am a total Han/Leia fangirl, I like Jessa. Interesting that Callian is Force-sensitive. I will definitely be following this!

 

Yes, those Jedi haven't created a lot of trust with the parents of little kids after what Darth Vader did...

I'm a Han/Leia fan, too. But this story required something a bit different to make things difficult for Han and Leia!

-------


Chapter Nine

"Padme!" Obi-Wan shouted toward Solo's comlink. "What in the stars are you doing here?"

"Luke? Obi-Wan?" Padme's relieved voice said before the Corellian Admiral quickly cut the audio feed.

Solo turned to address his security team. "Allow her shuttle to dock, and then escort her to my private ready room. I intend to get to the bottom of all of these coincidental appearances by Republic ships." He spun back around to glare at the three Jedi. "I intend to question this newest arrival first." He gave a signal and several guards nervously approached the Jedi while their commander continued speaking. "You will hand over your weapons to my security team and you will remain silent," he shot a glare at Luke, "until we are all gathered together. And then you will answer every single one of my questions. You'd better hope that your answers match her answers."

Obi-Wan Kenobi carefully handed over his lightsaber to the guard, and nodded at Luke and Corran. "Do as he asks."

Face flushing, Luke tossed his lightsaber on the floor, forcing one of the guards to bend over to retrieve the cylinder, while Corran politely passed his weapon over.

"That's it?" Han questioned Kenobi. "No blasters?"

"Blasters are crude and unrefined," Luke replied before Obi-Wan could respond. "Like you."

"Yeah, maybe I am unrefined," Solo said with a nod. "But I'm still in charge here, and you're not, kid."

"Quit calling me kid!"

"All right," Han agreed easily. "Mommy's boy."

With that, Han turned and walked away from the Jedi, with the huge Wookiee tagging in his wake.

"I hate that man," Luke grumbled.

"There is more to him than meets with eye," Obi-Wan replied as they were herded from the hanger by the security forces. He was going to have a discussion with Padme about Luke's attitude. With each passing day, Luke was reminding him more of Anakin and if Luke were told about Anakin's fate, perhaps it would help him control his anger and arrogance.

"Nothing that soap and water can't wash away," Luke said, confirming Obi-Wan's internal musings.

Corran asked Obi-Wan, "Why do you think that?"

"I know the Wookiee."

**

​

Urdur

Jessa had shown Leia and Mara to her home's guest room, while Hal Horn agreed to stay in the Solo's office area, which had a sofa that converted into bed. After a quick lunch, Ryyplyn returned and took over babysitting duties while Jessa drove the Jedi around the dome, making frequent stops at building locations the Jedi determined they needed to check out.

After a few hours, Jessa was getting tired and asked, "Are there any more places in particular you wish to see?"

"Do you have any military bases?" Mara questioned.

"No. Of course, we do have CSA police stations, but not any actual military bases. Urdur is not considered a very valuable system in the Corporate Sector."

"But your father, the governor of Urdur, has a lot of influence on Prime Minister Limpan?" Leia asked.

Jessa smiled. "My father has influence because of his past associations with smugglers, who still hold him in high regard. Limpan knows that his life will be a lot easier if those smugglers either stay out of the Corporate Sector, or turn into legit shippers. Since the death of Palpatine, my father has convinced more than a few smugglers to go on the straight and narrow."

"Including Han Solo," Horn said.

"I might have had more influence with Han's decision than my father," Jessa replied with a laugh. "Well, both me and Chewbacca."

"Chewbacca?" Mara asked.

"Chewie, for short. My husband's friend and co-pilot. Chewie swore a life-debt to Han after my husband rescued him from slavers. Ryyplyn is also Chewie's maternal aunt."

"Does Ryyplyn have a life-debt to you or your husband?" Leia wanted to know.

"Stars, no! One Wookiee life-debt per family is enough. She needed employment after her spouse died, and since Han likes Wookiees and she was related to Chewie, we hired her."

"I am not understanding why your husband prefers Wookiees over droids," Threepio put into the conversation. "Droids do not shed and we speak Basic." Artoo gave a toodle, and Threepio added, "Well, most droids are able to speak Basic. There are always exceptions, of course."

"Is there any possibility we could check out the other large domed cities?" Horn questioned. "Random spot checks would go a long way in convincing the Senate there is no super weapon on Urdur."

"Of course, but it's getting quite late," Jessa agreed. "We can head to whichever city you desire tomorrow morning, if that's acceptable."

"Quite acceptable," Horn answered.

**

​

Death Star

Orbiting over Despayre

Admiral Daala shut her eyes, trying desperately to block out the memories of last night. She hadn't been able to stop her body from physically responding to the Falleen, but her mind was another matter entirely. Although she was totally repulsed by Lord Xizor she had no choice but to obey his orders, no matter how vile. Refusal would mean more than a demotion or loss of her job – it would mean torture and death. It would be good to get this mission underway. Perhaps, once they were in hyperspace, Prince Xizor would have more to think about besides….

"Admiral?" a young ensign interrupted her thoughts. "Engineering says everything is ready to make the jump into hyperspace."

"Good. Make it as soon as possible." She gazed out of the viewport at the desolate planet. Thousands upon thousands of slaves of every imaginable species had died over the course of the last two decades while building this monstrosity. And every single corpse was now floating in orbit over Despayre, eyes sometimes wide open, and mouths open. They would never rot away in the vacuum of space and would remain for all time a testament to Lord Xizor's greed and ego.

"Delay that order. We need to test this battle station before we head out," a sharp voice said from behind her.

Daala gritted her teeth and turned to face Xizor. "What type of test?"

Xizor nodded toward the viewport. "Target this station's main weapon on the planet."

"There are still workers down there."

"Most of which are slaves along with a few guards, which are clones. All expendable. Are you questioning me, Admiral?"

"No."

"Good. We wouldn't want the crew to see a bad example, would we?"

Daala turned to the captain of the bridge. "You heard Prince Xizor. Target Despayre, Captain Needa."

The smarmy human smiled, pleased with both the order and seeing the Admiral being ordered around. "Yes, Admiral."

Everyone on the bridge watched with a mix of horror, fascination and pride as a few minutes later, Despayre blew into billions of pieces. For long moments, there was complete silence on the bridge as the crew stared at the mind-boggling destruction of an entire planet.

"That was most satisfying," Xizor finally stated into the stunned silence. "I am feeling the urge to celebrate." He leered at Daala. "There's nothing like a good display of power to prod those urges into full throttle, don't you agree, Admiral?"

Daala flushed, hoping the veiled implication wasn't obvious to her crew.

"Um, Admiral?" an ensign interrupted nervously, glancing in fear at Xizor.

Relieved at the distraction, she turned to the ensign, seeing him for the first time. Another clone, which annoyed her. It wasn't a surprise, really, since about two thirds of the battle stations personnel were clones. "What?"

"Docking station two-forty-two just reported an anomaly."

"Which would be?"

"A small Corellian freighter left the station less than a minute ago without clearance authorization. It's not responding to communication requests."

"Destroy it, then," Captain Needa snapped out before Daala could speak.

"The ship has been identified as one of our independent supply ships. Our fighters are trying to intercept…" the ensign tried explaining.

"I didn't say intercept… I said destroy!"

"Who outranks who on this battle station, Captain?" Daala said, annoyed beyond words that her authority was constantly being undermined by Prince Xizor, and now Needa.

"I… uh, you do, Admiral. What is your order?" Captain Needa stammered.

"It doesn't matter anymore," Xizor stated as he looked at the control panel. "The freighter just made the jump to hyperspace." He turned his angry gaze at Captain Needa. "If that turns out to be a problem, you will pay the price."

"It's possible the pilot was simply confused about proper exit protocol," Needa said, trying to downplay the situation.

"But not likely."

Daala turned to Xizor. "I will handle discipline on this station, Xizor."

"That is fine by me," Xizor replied. "Just remember who is responsible for your discipline, Admiral. In the meantime, order the jump to hyperspace. We have an appointment with Urdur."

**

​

YT-2000 Corellian light freighter, hyperspace

The young human shifted in the pilot's seat. It was unlikely that someone like him would ever have ended up employed by a power mad Falleen, running supplies from various locations in the Republic to the battle station over Despayre. But he'd needed the funds, and he lately he was running low on second-hand lightsabers to pawn, and he had no intention of selling the three sabers he held most dear. Just thinking about them made him pat his waist band, reassuring himself they were still safely attached.

He also had too much pride to return home to Coruscant to ask his mother and father for money, even if they had more than enough to spare. He had never cared for his parents' lavish lifestyle. Snobbish private clubs, boring, expensive parties, and illicit drugs handed out in discreet corners of the mansion; while the actual consumption of those drugs was anything but discreet. His mother, Artela Jinn, was a galaxy famous holo-star, well past her prime and resentful that big roles were no longer hers to pick and choose at whim. His father, Dibis Jinn, was an influential holo-director and was twenty years older than his actress wife. The marriage had soured not long after his birth, but they remained married because a divorce would cost them both too much in cash, friends and status. It was the reason Artis Jinn had left home at age seventeen, never to return. He did, however, occasionally wonder if his parents missed him. It seemed unlikely, even though he hadn't seen them for nine years.

When he'd first arrived at the huge battle station orbiting Despayre, it was nearing completion. Artis had been stunned at the sheer mass of the object. And only minutes ago, he'd been relaxing and having an ale with one of the crew members of this station - who had confided that the battle station's first destination was the Urdur system in the Corporate Sector - when their attention was drawn to a small viewport, where they were witness to the what should have been impossible. And it was still impossible to believe an entire planet was now totally gone. This battle station was nothing more than a black orb of death and destruction, and Artis was guilty of playing a role in its creation. It hardly mattered it was a miniscule role, and if he hadn't delivered the supplies someone else would have. All that mattered was the end result.

Artis Jinn had always admired and idolized the Jedi Knights. Now it was up to him to emulate the Jedi, and race to Urdur to save as many lives as he possibly could before the Death Star could give a repeat performance.

 

Great update. I think Xizor's worse than Palpatine! *shudders*

 

Xizor is a creep! Daala is very much in character, wanting respect but not getting any I think telling Luke about Anakin's fatal flaws would help quite a bit.

 

- He is pretty creepy!

- There will be a discussion with Luke in the future. Right now, he and Leia know nothing about their father, other than the bare minimum.

----


Chapter Ten


Roonadan

A pretty, middle-aged woman was escorted into Admiral Solo’s private meeting room, followed closely by a short green being wearing a brown robe and carrying a stick. He was a type of species Han had never seen before, and since Han had been from one side of the galaxy to the other, this rather surprised him.

The woman stuck out her hand toward Han, shaking his hand with a firm grip. “I’m Senator Amidala. I demand to see my son.”

“He’s in the other room,” Han replied, bristling a bit at her take-charge demeanor. “You’ll see him after I’ve had a chance to ask you a few questions.” He looked down at the diminutive creature standing beside her. “You didn’t mention you had a co-pilot.”

“You hardly gave me the opportunity, Admiral. This is Jedi Master Yoda,” she said by way of introduction.

A much bigger surprise came when the green being ignored him completely and addressed Chewbacca, instead.

“Long time since each other we have seen, Chewbacca.”

The Wookiee let loose with a loud, but pleased roar, replying he was happy to see ‘Yoda’ as well.

Han looked down at Yoda, and then up at Chewie. “You two know each other?”

Chewie nodded. *A long time ago.During the Clone Wars.*

“Pleased as well to see you Obi-Wan was?” Yoda prodded, shifting his small form up into the human-sized chair.

Chewie shrugged. *He did not say.*

“Wait!” Han stammered out, after sorting out the way Yoda spoke. “You know Kenobi, too?”

*Yes.*

“And why didn’t you tell me this little detail?”

*You didn’t ask.*

“Funny, pal. Very funny.”

“Admiral Solo, I must apologize for President Tarkin’s actions,” Padme said.“I understand your viewpoint. You’ve been attacked by a Republic vessel in your part of space, without any provocation on your part. Tarkin and the commander of the ship that did this will be held accountable for their rogue actions, I can promise you that. But Luke, Corran and Obi…. I mean, Jedi Kenobi came here to diffuse this situation, not make it worse.”

“So why didn’t you go along with them?”

“I stayed behind to file injunctions with the Supreme Court to stop Tarkin,” Padme said. “Then, when I found out Tarkin defied their orders and sent a ship to Roonadan, I had to take direct action by coming myself.” She turned on her full charm to the Corellian. “Please take us to speak to President Limpan?Millions of lives hang in the balance. We must work together to stop an all-out war between our governments.”

Han sighed. “You’re very persuasive, Senator Amidala. Sure you’re not one of those mind-altering Jedi?”

“Need the Force, Senator Amidala does not,” Yoda said firmly. “Feminine charms she has, instead.”

“Yeah?” Han asked, raising an eyebrow. “She failed to pass any of those charms onto her off-spring.”

“Know her daughter, do you?” Yoda asked.

“Daughter?” Han repeated, appalled, looking at Padme. “You have another kid?”

“Leia is not a ‘kid,’” Padme said, starting to become annoyed.

“I was talking about your smart-mouthed boy, Luke. I’ve never met your daughter, and I hope I never do.”

“That makes two of us,” Padme said, miffed.

Mentally, Han Solo had to agree.

**

Urdur

Jessa spent the next several days flying Jedi Master Horn and Threepio around the domed cities, patiently allowing him to make frequent inspections. Hal Horn had decided they could accomplish more if they split up, and so Mara and Leia were in their own speeder with Artoo, checking out the towns in the opposite direction.

It was during the second day at their third stop, in a small domed city named ‘Cryptsun’ that Leia and Mara were suddenly accosted by a young man.

“Hey!” he yelled, rushing up to them and grabbing Mara by her shoulders. “I’ve spent the past day on this Force-forsaken planet looking for someone in charge! You’re Jedi, right? The brown robes? The lightsabers hanging from your waist? You Jedi can be so obvious sometimes.”

The red-head stepped back, shaking out of his grasp and reached for her lightsaber, then ignited the light purple blade. “You might want to reconsider that method of asking.”

The man grinned. “What a wiz saber color. I have Mace Windu’s actual lightsaber, and it’s practically the same color. Yours is a bit lighter shade, though.” He promptly turned it on, which caused Leia to add her yellow blade to the growing lightsaber display.

Both women took up defensive stances, alarmed at this turn of events. But by now it was the man’s turn to look alarmed. “Hey, I don’t want to fight you ladies. Although I’m pretty good at using these things, if I do say so myself. I’ve been practicing with sabers since I’ve been a little kid.”

“Unless you’re a Sith Lord, you don’t stand much of a chance,” Mara warned.

“Put down your weapon, and give up peacefully,” Leia added.

“No… you don’t understand,” the man said as he turned off his lightsaber. “I’ve come here to warn you.”

Neither Leia nor Mara dropped their guard down. “About what?” Leia asked.

“You have to evacuate this planet! The Death Star is coming!”

Mara’s eyes narrowed.“What’s a Death Star?”

“It doesn’t sound good,” Leia added.

“It’s not, believe me,” the man shouted, waving his arms in the air. “It’s a huge space station. It can blow up entire planets!”

Mara sighed. “That’s not possible.”

“It is!” the man insisted. “I’ve seen it with my own eyes. It blew up Despayre.”

“Let’s start from the beginning,” Leia said, slightly lowering her weapon. “What’s your name?”

“Artis Jinn,” he replied, sticking out his hand for her to shake. “I’m originally from Coruscant, and I collect old lightsabers. But lately I’ve had to take on shipping freight to make ends meet, because lighsabers are getting harder and harder to find these days. I’ve even spent a lot of time looking on LandosList, but sometimes I wonder how authentic the ones posted there are. Probably a lot of forgeries. You don’t happen to know where I could find some extras, do you?”

“No,” Mara answered curtly. “What were you doing on Despayre?”

“Well, I wasn’t on Despayre, or I’d be dead. Everyone that was on that planet is deader than a droid without a memory chip. I was on the Death Star when it blew. See, I’d been running supplies for Lord Xizor to build that station. I didn’t have a clue what it was actually capable of doing, until I saw it tested with my own two eyes. Then I got off that station as fast as I could, and it’s amazing I got away. One of the flight deck attendants that I was having a drink with mentioned Xizor is taking the weapon to Urdur. I have to guess he probably wants to destroy it, or why would he come here? So I knew I had to come here to warn everyone, because it’s something a Jedi would do, and I really admire you guys…err… gals.”

“That doesn’t make any sense,” Leia argued. “Why would this Lord Xizor want to destroy Urdur?”

Artis shrugged. “I didn’t hang around to ask him. That Falleen has a nasty temper, or so I’ve been told. I haven’t had the displeasure of actually meeting him in person.”

“How long until the Death Star arrives?” Leia asked.

“Probably less than a day.”

Both Mara and Leia could sense through the Force that this rather odd stranger was telling the truth. Or, at least what he believed to be the truth. He might very well simply be delusional, but the risk was too high to simply ignore him.

Leia pulled her comlink from her belt, keying in the code for Master Horn.

**

“That sounds terrible!” Threepio cried out in fear after listening to Leia’s warning. “We need to depart Urdur, immediately!”

“I agree,” Horn said.

“Do you have enough room on your shuttle for a few more?" Jessa asked.

“Of course. It will be tight, but we can do it.”

“Please do me a favor, and take Callian and Ryyplyn with you when you leave?”

Hal looked surprised at the request. “Surely you intend to evacuate as well?”

“Of course I do,” Jessa assured him. “I have my own ship. But with my father gone, I will have to go to the government office and coordinate Urdur’s evacuation. These people are my responsibility, and I can’t simply take off, Jedi Horn.”

“Perhaps I should stay behind and give you some assistance,” Hal stated.

Jessa shook her head. “No. Get back to your ship. I’ll get off in time. Trust me.”

Jedi Horn nodded in agreement, although he felt a sense of dread permeating through the Force all the way down to his core. He knew there simply wasn’t enough time, or ships, to evacuate the entire population in the short amount of time that was left. And Jessa Solo seemed like the sort of person that wouldn’t leave until she was certain everyone was safely off-planet. He didn’t see a good ending for this situation.

 

Oh, no. I'm worried for Jessa. And I'm sorry I have been so behind, but I enjoyed having so many updates to read. I think Obi-Wan had best tell Luke about Anakin so he can calm down some. LOL And Threepio is cracking me up with his comments about droids. Also, so interesting that Callian may be a Jedi. I wonder what Han would have to say about that. Excellent updates!!

 

-

And well you should be worried about Jessa....

Luke isn't the only one that going to deserve a lecture from Obi-Wan and Padme, as you will soon see! Thanks for reading!

----


Chapter Eleven


Capital city of Varlo on Roonadan

Han Solo hated waiting. And when it came to politicians, nobody was longer-winded than those types of beings. Prime Minister Releb Limpan was a Duros that loved the spotlight, and unlike many of this kind, simply loved to talk. The fact that the famous Senator Padme Amidala had bothered to travel all the way to the Corporate Sector to meet with him thrilled the Duros to no end. The only issue had been the fact that not one, but four Jedi Knights were accompanying the Senator to Roonadan. Like all politicians, Limpan had a suspicious nature, and insisted on meeting only with Amidala and Jedi Master Kenobi as he didn’t wish to have his ‘mind altered’ by too many Jedi in the meeting room at the same time. So it was probably a good thing that Amidala had decided to come, as it was apparent that a meeting with a multitude of Jedi wouldn’t have been well received.

Han’s father-in-law, Urdur’s Governor Klaus ‘Doc’ Vandangante, had then strongly suggested that Han and Chewie ‘escort’ the remaining Jedi around Varlo to ‘show them the sights.’ In other words, he wanted Han to keep an eye on their Republic visitors, without making it look like he was keeping an eye on them. It wouldn’t be polite to have CSA police escorting them around, would it, Doc had asked Han. It had taken all of Han’s willpower not to reply that he didn’t care about hurting the feelings of the Jedi. He did have to go home sooner or later and live with Jessa, after all….

Besides which, yesterday the young Jedi named Luke Naberrie had insulted his private ship, his pride and joy, a YT-1300 Corellian freighter, the Millennium Falcon. The kid had the nerve to call his ship ‘a piece of junk’! The only reason Han had decided to take everyone to his ship was that the group asking to go planetside had now grown to five ‘guests’ so the Falcon was the only logical alternative, as Senator Amidala’s shuttle was too small for so many people, and Han hated flying CSA shuttles. In fact, he hated all shuttles. They were slow and clunky and poorly shielded, which would be a very, very bad thing if another Republic Dreadnaught decided to make an unexpected appearance. The one good thing that had occurred with the arrival of Senator Amidala was that she had been able to restrain her son’s snarky comments by one disapproving, motherly glare in his direction.

Now, however, Amidala wasn’t present as the strange group sat in a dockside café, eating lunch. Chewie was busy conversing with Yoda, while Corran and Luke whispered back and forth between themselves. Han felt like the odd-man out.And for some reason, that bothered him.

**

Urdur


Hal Horn and Threepio arrived back at the Solo house, and were met at the door by Artoo, Leia and Mara. Leia was holding the baby Callian, and Mara was looking rather grim.

“Where is Ryyplyn?” Horn asked, looking past them into the house.

“She told us to take Callian and get off the planet. She was going to make certain that Jessa didn’t wait too long before leaving.”

Hal gave a sigh. "Wookiees are wonderfully loyal. Sometimes, too loyal. I hope they don’t wait too long.”

“I hope we haven’t waited too long,” Mara said. "Let’s get to our shuttle.”

“I must concur completely,” Threepio said, shuffling toward the exit. "Don’t be too slow, Artoo. We wouldn’t want to leave you behind.”

It didn’t take them long to arrive at the spaceport, and they were shocked at the sight that awaited them. Beings of all species were running around in a panic, desperately looking for a way off-planet. Ships were lifting off without waiting for clearance. They hurried to their ship, and were relieved to see it was still there, although it appeared that someone had tried to force the outer control panel off its side. Hal punched in the code, and the door slid upward while the ramp lowered. They cringed as a large explosion sounded in the distance, and then looked toward the sound.In the distant sky, black smoke billowed like an approaching storm, although they knew it was the remains of two ships that had collided.

“Hurry,” Horn prodded the two women up the ramp.

“HEY! WAIT!” a voice screamed from across the dock.

They turned to watch a young man running in their direction. "Jedi Leia! Jedi Mara! I just knew I’d find you here!”

“Artis?” Mara asked in surprise. “I thought you were heading back to your own ship?”

Panting, he came to a stop in front of the group. “My ship was stolen! Can you believe that? I don’t have a way off and the Death Star is going to be here in a few minutes!”

“This is Artis Jinn,” Mara informed Horn. “He’s the man that warned us about the battle station.”

Hal noted the three lightsabers hanging from the man’s waist, but decided to put off that question until later. “How did you know where to find us?”

Artis shrugged. “I don’t know… sometimes I just sense those things. It’s weird.”

“Or maybe you followed us from Coruscant and knew where we were docked,” Mara said suspiciously.

“No, I’m not a spy for Tarkin,” Artis replied, offended. “I told you the truth earlier.”

“I didn’t accuse you of being a spy.”

“You were thinking it,” Artis said. “I can tell.”

“Well, we can’t leave him behind,” Horn said. “We’ve got the room, and we don’t have time to discuss this in a committee.”

“We’re not a committee!” Leia protested as she hurried up the ramp behind Master Horn.

**

Death Star, dropping out of hyperspace over Urdur

“There is our target,” Xizor said as he observed the cold planet in the distance.

“There sure is a lot of traffic leaving,” Admiral Daala noted as she looked at the readouts.

“The Corellian freighter that took off without authorization gave them warning,” Xizor said, turning to Captain Needa. “That is the only explanation.”

“Maybe not,” Needa said, growing pale. “There might be another reason.”

“And that reason would be?”

“I… err… I’m not sure.” Needa lowered his head. “Allowing the ship to depart was an error, and I take full responsibility. I apologize.”

Xizor pulled out a flame blaster, and casually pulled the trigger. Long seconds later, a screaming Needa was reduced to a pile of ashes. “Apology accepted, Captain Needa.” He addressed a silent Daala. “Order this station to destroy Urdur.”

“Yes, M’Lord,” Daala quickly replied. She turned to the man sitting at the weapons station. “Turn on the targeting reactors.”

“Yes, Admiral,” the Clone Trooper responded. “It is now charging, and should be ready to fire as soon as we are clear of the moon.”

**

“There it is,” Artis pointed at the Death Star as they flew away from the planet’s atmosphere.

“It’s huge,” Mara said, her green eyes widening with shock.

“I told you I wasn’t lying.”

Horn looked at his control panel. “Hundreds of ships are still leaving the surface.”

“And millions more will never make it off in time,” Leia added sadly.

Hal entered the coordinates for the jump into hyperspace, pulling their ship a safe distance from Urdur and far away from the Death Star’s approach. They could only watch as an enormous red beam shot out from the battle station in multiple locations and coalesced into one large laser, and then shot toward the planet, which instantly exploded.

All the Jedi gasped in horror, feeling the simultaneous deaths of millions of beings. “I hope Jessa and Ryyplyn made it off in time,” Mara whispered.

Leia was holding Callian in her arms, and the child that had been so happy and gurgling moments earlier, suddenly started screaming as though she was in terrible, awful agony. Through the Force, the little girl knew the truth. Tears started flowing from Leia’s eyes. “They didn’t.”

 

Woot! Love the classic lines. Oh, dear! About Jessa, for Callian's sake especially.

 

Oh noooooo. Poor Jessa. And poor Callian knowing about her Momma. Han's going to be a mess. At least Jessa saved their baby by sending her with Leia.

 

- Yes, poor Callian. *sniffs* And now you're going to get a bit peeved at Leia!

- Han is going to be quite upset, and not only about his wife's death!

Muahahahaha (PT likes to be a bit evil with her stories!)

------

Chapter Twelve

Onboard the Jedi shuttle, hidden past the debris field of Urdur

It had taken Leia quite a while to calm the year old child, but she was finally sleeping. While Hal was busy trying desperately to establish communications with Kenobi's shuttle the Dogger - and not having any success - Artis was busy discussing lightsaber techniques with Mara Jade.

Up until now, Mara hadn't really looked closely at Artis. With his blue-green eyes and long blond hair tied back in a pony-tail, he was rather striking. Besides, he seemed totally smitten with her and after having her ego bruised by watching Luke say his passionate good-bye to Shira Brie, she started to think Artis might make a decent catch. Inwardly, she cringed over that idea. According to Master Yoda, Jedi – even young Jedi – weren't supposed to be focused on the opposite sex. It had also occurred to Mara that Artis seemed to show a great deal of potential in the Force. He seemed to have to ability to sense things around him, and the fact he'd been able to locate her and Leia, the only two Jedi in that particular city, helped back up her belief.

"Would you consider coming to Coruscant with us when this mission is over?" Mara asked Artis. "I'd like to have your midichlorians tested."

"Um, I guess," Artis replied, pleased she was asking. "I'm originally from that system. Can I ask what a midi… midi…"

"Midichlorian. It's a Force-sensitive life-form that lives within all beings. Having a high count shows how Force-sensitive you are."

"So you think I have the potential to become a real Jedi Knight?"

"It's a possibility."

"WIZ!" Without thinking, Artis leaned forward and kissed Mara on her lips, then pulled back. "Sorry. Sometimes I get carried away and do things without thinking."

"It's alright," Mara replied, her lips tingling from the unexpected touch. "You're a good kisser, Jinn. Better than Luke Naberrie, even."

"Wiz!"

**

​

Leia sat down in the co-pilot's chair. "Any luck raising the Dogger yet, Master Horn?"

"No, and I haven't been able to contact your mother or Master Yoda on Coruscant, either. The Dogger appears to have its comm panel turned off, but the messages I'm sending to Coruscant appear to be blocked, which is very odd."

"Are we heading back to Coruscant?"

"No, I think we should go to Roonadan," Horn replied. "I'm getting a strange feeling we are going to be needed there."

"Master Horn?"

Hal turned in his seat to face Leia. "Yes?"

"I'm a full-fledged Jedi now, and I want to keep Callian as my future padawan."

The Jedi Master blinked in surprise. "Jedi Leia…. the child is not an orphan. She has a father, and a grandfather."

"They'll think she's dead."

Hal was shocked. "Leia! What are you saying? That we should simply kidnap Callian from her rightful family because she's Force-sensitive?"

"But isn't that what Jedi have been doing for generations already?"

"No! We ask the family for permission."

"Now we ask," Leia argued. "And because of my mother, families are no longer torn apart. But before the Emperor's purge, the Jedi Masters didn't ask. They took the younglings."

"That's not true. They were always asked."

Leia looked highly skeptical. "Asked? Or coerced?"

Hal didn't quite know what to say. Technically, Leia was right. Seldom was a Force-sensitive youngling left with his or her parents. The Jedi knew how to strongly persuade even the most reluctant family into giving up their off-spring for the 'good of the galaxy and the future of the Jedi Knights' as was the oft-repeated phrase. "Allowing Callian's family to believe she died on Urdur would be cruel."

Leia stood up and looked down at Master Horn, her face showing determination. "I'll never give her up, Master Horn. She's my child now, and she'll be far better off with me than with some worthless ex-smuggler." With those words, she left the cockpit.

**

​

Coruscant

Death Star, over Coruscant

President Tarkin took the podium in his new throne room aboard the Space Station, smiling benevolently at the holo-cam. This speech, the most important of his life, would be shown throughout the Republic as well as the Corporate Sector.

"Thank you for your attention on such short notice," Tarkin said. "I will try to make this short and to the point." He turned slightly and pointed upward as a holographic image of the Death Star appeared over his head. "This is my newest weapon. It is a battle station so powerful it can destroy entire planets with a single blast."

He waited for a moment, knowing his words needed time to sink in to the citizens and the Senate that was watching and listening on the planet below, as well as the rest of the known galaxy. "In fact, it has already demonstrated its power on our sworn enemy, the Corporate Sector, and it has destroyed the planet of Urdur which was building its own super weapon, the Galactic Sonic weapon that I warned you gentle beings about some time earlier. We no longer have that to worry about, and with the completion of this weapon, we will never have to worry about any threat, ever again."

He smiled without humor. "So much so, that the Jedi Knights are also now useless and defunct. I have issued an Executive Order outlawing the Jedi Order, and anyone that uses the Force or lightsaber weapons in the future will be considered an enemy of the State. Since the Jedi Order is now disbanded, all Jedi must renounce the Jedi Order and declare their allegiance to me, or they will be arrested as rebels and terrorists. Any system that defies this order and shelters these terrorists will run the risk of annihilation."

"I am also disbanding the Senate, as they have also outlived their usefulness, and I will be appointing Governors to preside over individual systems, as these governors will act on my behalf rather in their own selfish interests."

Tarkin lifted his arms. "Rejoice, citizens of the Monarchy of Falleen! You no longer need to live under the yoke of fear… whether that fear is of some mystical being that wields power you don't possess, or the fear of some as yet unknown, advancing, malevolent race, intent on devouring and destroying our galaxy. The former President of the Republic, and now your King Tarkin, has spoken!"

And then the holo-viewers went dark and the citizens of the galaxy never saw what happened next in the throne room of the Death Star,

Tarkin dropped to his knees before Lord Xizor, and kissed his boots as Xizor sneered down at the human in contempt. "You did well, Tarkin," Xizor said. "My puppet served me well, so I shall allow you to continue to live."

"Thank you, Master Xizor," Tarkin mumbled, his face pressed against the cold, hard floor.

**

​

Roonadan

The entire group of Jedi, plus Padme, Han, Chewie, Doc and Prime Minister Releb Limpan had gathered together to watch Tarkin's speech.

When the speech concluded, Senator Padme held her hand to her throat, her face ashen. "This cannot be happening again."

"You warned them," Obi-Wan said, shaking his head. "They didn't listen."

"I have failed in my duties as Prime Minister," Limpan stated, his eyes downcast. "I must resign in disgrace."

"My wife and child were on Urdur," Han whispered, unable to comprehend what he'd just heard. "I have to go there."

Padme shut her eyes. "My daughter was on a mission with two other Jedi on Urdur."

Han whipped his head around toward her. "Mission?"

"My sister was on a fact-finding mission, to disprove Tarkin's allegations that the Corporate Sector was building a super weapon," Luke said defensively. "Mara was there, too."

"And my father," Corran added. "He can't be dead. I'd feel it… I know I'd feel his death."

"Sense their deaths, I did not, as well," Yoda agreed. "Safe, they must be."

"I'm going to Urdur," Han repeated. "My wife and child might be stranded off-planet, in a disabled ship."

"That isn't too likely," Doc said, shaking his head. "We should wait here. Jessa will come to Roonadan immediately, if she made it off in time."

"They made it off!" Han yelled. "They might still be in danger!"

*Han…* Chewie started to say, before Han interrupted.

"Stay here, then! I don't need your help!" He stalked off, and Chewie dutifully followed his distraught friend.

Doc waited until Han had left the room, and then said, "Jessa would have not abandoned the beings on Urdur. She was far too responsible. She would have waited until the last person was safely off-planet before leaving."

"It's highly unlikely that more than a small percentage had the means or the time to leave Urdur before it was destroyed," Padme said.

"I know that," Doc replied sadly, tears now flowing freely down his face. "And so does Han. He just isn't ready to face the horrible truth yet."

 

PT, you didn't do that with Jinn/Mara. Hmmm. I can understand Leia's resolve and compassion and Han's denial. But misleading the family; Hal's right. They should be asked at the very least.

 

- Yup, PT is evil! Muahahaha. And wait until you read the NEXT chapter with what happens with Jinn and Mara!

The formatting issues on this site are really annoying. It makes double lines between paragraphs and runs words together and makes the type tiny. And if I try to make it bigger font, it messes MORE things up! It never did that before....

-----


Chapter Thirteen

The Jedi had requested that they be allowed to try and raise Jedi Horn’s shuttle, at which time the Prime Minister agreed they could use the CSA’s long-range communication equipment in about an hour, and stated he needed to immediately address his cabinet members about the Urdur situation. The Duros then asked Governor Vandangante to wait with the Republic visitors in a private conference room.For a long time no one spoke, until Yoda finally said, “Warning, the Force is giving me. Right, things are not.”

Luke gave a sarcastic laugh. “Isn’t that warning sort of late, Master?”

Yoda scowled at Luke. “Attitude you have. Too much like your father you are.”

“Yeah?” Luke said. “I’d sure like to know more about my old man, other than he was born on Tatooine and he’s dead. Even all the Jedi records of him have been purged.”

“You looked for information on Anakin?” Padme asked in surprise. “When did you do that?”

“Of course I did,” Luke replied, sounding testy. “I’m not a child anymore, and I wanted to know, so I started looking back when I was about twelve years old.” He waved a hand toward Corran. “Corran never knew his mother, yet his father has told him everything about Nyche Horn. He knows what she looked like, and how she died. I don’t understand the silence about Anakin…. I don’t even know his last name!”

“We will tell you soon,” Obi-Wan stated, looking pointedly at Padme as he spoke to her. “It’s past time he knew, and Master Yoda is correct. Luke is demonstrating some undesirable anger issues lately.”

“Soon?” Luke pushed. “Why not right now?”

“Because your sister needs to hear this, as well,” Padme said. “It wouldn’t be fair or right for you to know first.”

Luke sighed and slumped back in his chair. “So I might never know.”

“Leia’s not dead!” Corran yelled, rising from his seat. “None of them are dead!”

“Corran, settle down,” Obi-Wan chastised. “We agree with you.It’s just a matter of contacting them.”

“Speaking of which,” Padme said to Doc, “why can’t we use the holocomm?Is there a problem?”

Doc shrugged.“ I don’t know anything more than you, Senator.”

“Limpan doesn’t trust us,” Corran said. “That’s why you were asked to wait with us.”

Doc laughed. “One old man against three Jedi? I wouldn’t stand a chance if you were determined to do something rash, would I?”

“No,” Luke replied shortly. “Even without our lightsabers. Speaking of which, what did your reprobate son-in-law do with our sabers, anyway? He insisted we hand them over back when we were still onboard the Independence.”

Before Padme could reprimand Luke on his manners, the outer door cycled open, and a squadron of CSA security guards rushed into the room, weapons drawn and pointed at the group.

Shocked, Doc stood up. “What’s going on?”

The Prime Minister entered last, making certain he remained behind his troops, even though he was holding a blaster as well. “Governor, these people are our enemies. They are under arrest.”

“Tarkin is the enemy, not us!” Padme protested. “Didn’t you listen to his speech?”

“I listened, and I heard,” the Duros said. “I will not allow Roonadan to be the next planet destroyed because I am sheltering Jedi.”

“What do you intend to do with them?” Doc asked.

“I will turn them over to Tarkin as a gesture of my goodwill. He will understand the Corporate Sector does not wish to go to war with the Republic.”

“You are caving into Tarkin’s insane demands?” Padme asked, her voice brittle with anger.

“I am a pragmatist,” Limpan replied. “I know when I have the losing hand, and with the appearance of that Death Star, Tarkin holds all the power cards. I will not risk more of my citizens’ lives.”

“We need to work with the Jedi, not against them,” Doc argued, stepping closer to the guards. “The Jedi are the only hope we have for coming up with a way to stop Tarkin.”

The Duros shook his head sadly. “I am sorry to hear that you feel that way, Governor Vandangante. The Corporate Sector cannot survive with traitors in our midst, and you are speaking like a traitor.”

“I am no traitor!” Doc cried out, trying to push past the wall of guards, who put their arms out to block his way.

“Let him through,” the Duros ordered, watching as the troops lowered their arms and allowed Doc to walk toward him. When Doc was standing directly in front of the Prime Minister, the Duros said, “I’m sorry.”

“You mean to say the Jedi are not under arrest?” Doc asked, sounding relieved that the Prime Minister was finally showing sense.

“No. I’m sorry that the punishment for traitors is death.” With that, the Duros fired at point blank range, hitting Doc in the center of his chest.

**

Debris field over Urdur

The Millenium Falcon maneuvered through the rocks that once were a planet that housed millions of beings. For the past several years, it had been the place Han called home. Now it was gone, and there was no evidence of life-signs coming from any direction.

*There are no disabled ships, Han,* Chewie barked out softly. *Everyone is gone.*

“Jessa and Callian are dead,” Han said, his throat constricting as he spoke those terrible words. “They were my life, Chewie. I’ll never love anyone as much as I loved them. I’m not sure I even want to go on living.”

*I am so sorry.* The Wookiee knew better than to say that one day Han would recover. That he’d find the will to live, and the heart to find another love someday. He understood Han’s pain was too raw, too fresh, to believe that right now. Instead, he said, *Doc will need us.We should head back to Roonadan.* When his human friend didn’t respond, Chewie entered the coordinates for the jump back to Roonadan, and pulled the lever, leaving the graveyard in space behind them.

**

Master Horn and Mara watched from the cockpit as the planet of Roonadan came into view as they left hyperspace.

“There sure is a lot of traffic,” Mara commented. “And I don’t like that Dreadnaught standing by, either.”

“The good news is that all the traffic is inbound,” Hal said. “I’d guess it’s many of the ships that managed to get off of Urdur. See if you can raise this planet’s space control authorities, but don’t tell them we’re from the Republic. I don’t imagine that would make us too popular.”

Mara tried for nearly an hour before she had success. Finally the ground control, sounding more than a bit weary, answered, “Incoming ship, please identify ship name and occupants.”

Horn replied, “Roonadan Control, this is the shuttle Utility, Captain Hal Antilles onboard with my two daughters, my son-in-law and my grandchild, and two droids.”

“Are you refugees from Urdur?” the controller asked.

“Yes, we are.”

“You will have a long wait. I’ll contact you with your landing instructions when your turn comes up. Roonadan Control, out.”

Leia and Artis were now standing behind Mara and Horn’s seats. “Daughters?” Leia asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Son-in-law?” Artis added curiously.

Hal spun his seat around to face them. “I didn’t have much time to think about a plan, but I know we can’t admit we’re Jedi from the Republic, not after what happened at Urdur. So now Mara and Leia are my daughters, and Callian is my granddaughter, at least until we get things sorted out. Make sure you hide your lightsabers from view.”

“If I’m your son-in-law, then which daughter is my wife?”

“The Antille family’s third daughter. She didn’t make it off Urdur in time,” Leia shot back to Artis.

“No,” Mara piped up. “Artis can pretend he’s my husband, so Callian can be our child.”

“NO!” Leia shouted, her face flushing red. “Callian belongs to me!”

Hal was starting to become concerned about Leia’s state of mind over this little girl. “Leia… she’s not yours.”

“If Mara can pretend Artis is her husband, then I can pretend Callian is my daughter,” Leia insisted. “I had an affair with some Corellian cad that seduced me and left when he found out I was going to have a baby.” She glared at the group, daring them to object to this idea.

“Inform the droids of this information, then,” Hal finally said, giving up. “Hopefully, Threepio won’t balk at telling lies.”

“He won’t,” Leia said confidently. “He’s never had a problem before.”

“Before?” Hal called out as Leia left the cockpit. “What did he need to lie about before?”

But Leia was already gone, and Hal knew he’d never get a straight answer from the young woman. Maybe it was time for Master Kenobi and Senator Amidala to have a little talk with Jedi Leia about the path her father took before she was ever born.

 

I think both Luke and Leia need a serious talk about their father!! And poor Han. But I hope he can find Callian soon!! I'm sorry I didn't see this before now. Can you tag me so I won't miss updates?? Thanks!!

 

Maybe it was time for Master Kenobi and Senator Amidala to have a little talk with Jedi Leia about the path her father took before she was ever born.

I have to agree - for both Luke and Leia!

Poor Han and Jessa.

 

Howdy, ginchy and amidalachick! Thanks for reading my last post. I do have to tell everyone that I won't be posting any more of this story on this site. The formatting issues that have suddenly cropped up over here are making me pull my hair out. (tiny font size, and if you try to increase the font size, all the spacing gets messed up!)

So... I'd LOVE to have you continue to read, but you'll have to go over to fanfiction (dot) net and look up the story under my screen name over there, "GreatOne."

 

Oh my pony tricks.....I love this story! Can't wait go see when han&leia meet! And Corran having a crush on Leia....he doesn't have a chance..... He needs to meet mirax ASAP!

Can you tag me or send me a message when you update?