Beyond - Legends Fate, So Beautifully [Thrawn/Jaina Solo, time travel, darkfic]

I know this is out of the blue, but your story came to mind this evening as I happened to here this playing at a park side coffee stand: UNTIL from Kate and Leopold. This version is sung by sting:

 

Fate, So Beautifully


A Star Wars Romance


Written by: Nehru_Amidala


Inspirations: the myth of Hades and Persephone, Sailor Moon, Edward Scissorhands, The Nutcracker, The Thrawn Trilogy, Neil Gaiman’s Stardust, Downton Abbey


Pairings: Thrawn/Jaina (Main!), Luke/Mara, Han/Leia, Jacen/Tenel Ka, Anakin/Tahiri, Ar’alani/Paelleon, Thooraki/Thurfian, Eli/Vah’nya


Author’s note: Please do not nitpick with the ideas presented here. I will not change my stories to make you happy. Also, big thanks to @pashatemur for the song recommendation! I was thrilled to hear my story was the first thing you thought of when you heard it.


Tropes used in this story and trigger warnings: time travel, true love conquers all, earning a happy ending, grey vs gray morality, miscarriage, premature birth, abandonment, redemption, rising to meet your fate, to see with eyes unclouded


Timeline: Mix of Legends and Canon


Voice cast list: Thrawn- Benedict Cumberbatch, Jaina- Anne Hathaway, Luke- Mark Hamill, Mara- Karen Gillam, Han- Harrison Ford, Leia- Carrie Fisher, Jacen- Elijah Wood, Tenel Ka- Renee Felice Smith, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Paelleon- Joe Spano, Thooraki- Hugh Bonneville, Thurfian- Elizabeth McGovern, Eli- David Tennant, Vah’nya- Stephanie Sheh, Ochi of Bestoon- John DeLancie, Justinian Konstantin (OC)- Peter Capaldi, Theodora Konstantin (OC)- Catherine Tate, Cassandra Konstantin (OC)- Michelle Dockery


Author’s note: I claim nothing, except this is probably the VERY FIRST fan fiction is Star Wars fandom history to pair Thrawn with Jaina Solo. Having read all the Legends books, I can say for certainty that everyone will be in character. Any naysayers will be fed to Moro no Kimi.





Stave 10: Maintaining the Masquerade


1 July 26 ABY would go down as a first for the Skywalker family, for the first time in recorded family history (that anyone was aware of), triplets were born after a record of two generations of twins. While it should have been a happy time, Jaina’s lingering disappearance still weighed heavily on everyone’s mind. The official investigation had stalled for lack of evidence, and everyone who assisted found other things occupying their free time, to Han and Leia’s consternation. A month and a few days on, they had not given up. One way or another, they would find their little girl and bring her home.


Looking through the untold pages of intelligence reports taken from the New Republic’s investigation into the attack at the Jedi Temple, Mara could find no mention of Jaina or what they were planning with potential hostages. She groaned, another karking dead end. “Great, just great,” she groused sourly as she threw her datapad into the garbage bin, again. She had been taking it easy, when her stomach lurched uneasily, and something wet burst onto her leggings. It was time!


Mara was wheeled into the delivery room, where Leia, Tionne and Kirani Ti were assisting the childbirth as emotional support. 2-1B had been flown in at Luke’s request, and in between the usual threats and yelling at or for her husband, Mara was doing well. When the first baby started crowning, Luke walked into the room…only to faint and be brought round by his laughing brother-in-law.


“Smooth, farm boy, smooth.”


“Hardee har har, very funny, Han.”


From the other side of the door, came three tiny cries! Excited, Luke rushed into meet his children. They had been cleaned up and were snuggled in Mara’s arms. She smiled at him, “Say hello to Ben, Owen and Padme Skywalker.” Luke smiled as he cuddled them, they were finally here.


Once they were given the go ahead. Kirani and Tionne ushered in Han, Leia, Jacen and Anakin. Han and Leia, as experienced parents, congratulated Luke and Mara, awesome names. Anakin was amazed at how little they were, and kinda squished. Jacen teased him, saying his brother was like that when he was born. Anakin said it was too bad Jaina wasn’t there to share their joy. Jaina loved the little ones.


Later on, at dinner, the boys told Tenel Ka and Tahiri how they felt, and the girls knew while this was a time of celebration for new life, it was also melancholy because Jaina was not there. Where was she?


Back in the recovery room that had once housed recovering X-Wing pilots, Mara was in the middle of a post-natal nap. Ben, Owen, and Padme had been fed, diapered and were napping under the watchful eye of their Aunt Leia. As she dreamt, her mind flittered back to the heyday of the Empire, when she was a faithful servant of Emperor Palpatine. The more she focused, some things seemed to shift, Vader was more taciturn, aloof. Thrawn was there as well, in the shadows, like always. A sudden lurch sent her (past) self to floor- what had that been? Walking along a hall, she caught Thrawn with a very familiar young woman in his arms. Wait a second!


Was that?


Couldn’t be?


Mara woke up in a sweat, how was it possible? Jaina had time traveled? Calming her racing her heart, Mara had to clear head. Reaching out with the Force, she picked up on a conspiracy being covered up by Ackbar, Pash Cracken, Lando and Wedge. What did they know Han and Leia did not?


Picking up her commlink, she phoned Lando. It was late evening on Coruscant, so Lando picked up at once.


“This is Calrissian.”


“Lando- it’s Mara.”


“Hey Mara, congrats on the little ones! I hear Luke fainted in the delivery room.”

“I know about the sketch.”


“Sketch, which one?”


“The one Thrawn drew of Jaina. She time traveled, didn’t she?”


There was a long pause on the other end, followed by an even longer sigh. Lando pinched the bridge of his nose. Sooner or later, somebody else was going to find out, and better that it was Mara, than Han, Leia, or Luke. Calrissian confirmed that this was the case, and why they were keeping this on the downlow. Mara agreed, Leia’s hatred of Imperials didn’t sit well with Jaina, and for intents and purposes, the Force wanted Jaina to be the Persephone to Thrawn’s Hades. With Vader’s blessing, Leia was going to be hard pressed to get her daughter returned, and that depended on if Jaina wanted to return.


“Consider me your numero cinco compadre for ye olde conspiracy,” she finalized. They both agreed not to say anything to Luke until they had a definite plan of action.


Back in the past at his imposing fortress on Mustafar, Darth Vader was meditating, as he was accustomed to. He had felt the shift in Thrawn and Jaina’s relationship, the broken hearts and words left unspoken. Of course, emotional angst was an open psychic buffet for anyway halfway decent Sith Lord. This was different.


Jaina reminded him too much of Padme, and while this was not unexpected, he could not help but think back to when he and Padme had been married, when Rush Clovis and his slimy manners, moving in and forcing himself on Padme like that. Ugh!


As he stewed about this as he sat in his bacta tank, he thought more about. Although the two situations were completely different, the emotional resonance was the same. He was determined to see them as a happy couple again (even if it was only for his benefit as future Emperor), Vader decided to set them both straight. As far as blame was to be placed, Thrawn would get 80% and Jaina would get 20%.


Reaching out with the Force, he confirmed he had nothing to interfere with his meeting, and went ahead with his call.

At the same time on the Chimaera, it had been a long week, and the frozen relationship between Thrawn and Jaina was noticed by everybody. It was as though a wall of ice had built up between them. Paelleon and Eli had tried talking to them both, but no dice. Of course, talking about what’s wrong can lead to other doors opening.


That night and the night after that, Jaina and Thrawn dreamt about each other, more specifically their pasts. They saw what choices had been made, friendships forged, arguments and battles won and lost for the sake of maintaining the status quo, all of their faults laid open to one another. It was quite the eye opener, to say the least.


The third morning, 4 July 3 ABY saw Thrawn wake early, he and Jaina had to speak. Heart trembling, he knocked at her door. Jaina answered, she looked like she had not slept well either. She bid him a good morning and was keen to the idea of talking out their problems when there datapads buzzed. Vader was calling them!


The two of them were sitting down when Vader’s holographic mask popped up, his heavy mechanical breathing starting long before he began to speak. The Sith Lord first addressed his granddaughter. “What happened on Berchest, Jaina,” he bellowed.


Mentally preparing herself, Jaina explained, “We had just wrapped up the investigation into Justinian Konstantin producing spice on his estate, when the garrison commander tried to blast his wife and daughter before they could give evidence. I stepped in to stop him, but Thrawn pulled me and slapped me before forcing a rough kiss on me.”


Vader did not mince words with her, “You are not a Rebel, young lady. You are an Imperial officer, it’s time you acted like one and not a damn Jedi like your father! Start acting like one. There are also more productive ways to vent frustration, I highly recommend looking into them.” Trembling like a leaf in the wind, Jaina gave her solemn vow that she would. Satisfied Jaina would obey Imperial protocol from here on out.


His attention turned to Thrawn, who gave a similar account. A small curl of the finger, and Thrawn found himself choking in front of his heart’s half. URK! “If you were anyone else, my aim would be lower,” Vader thundered. He demanded to know why Thrawn had struck Jaina in that way, what sort of Imperial officer was he anyway, for stooping so low?


Once Thrawn got his breath back, he explained he deeply regretted striking Jaina, however he had to stop her from (accidentally) outing herself as a Rebel sympathizer, ergo he had to act the part of an Imperial Grand Admiral. “I am not the only one maintaining the masquerade,” he stated.


Pleased that the impasse had been cleared, Vader left the two of them alone. He had probe droids that needed to be sent out to scour for the new Rebel base, wherever that may be. A pot of tea was steeped, and the couple decided to talk. “Thirty-six years ago, I was born on the planet, Csilla,” Thrawn explained to Jaina. He spoke of his adoption into House Mitth at age 3, his happy childhood growing up alongside his older brother, Thrass, and later, his little sister, Al’iastov. He also spoke of the Outbound Flight disaster, his career with the Chiss Expansionary Defense Fleet, and his faked exile. He spoke how he missed his home, his adoptive parents, the few friends he kept in contact with.


Jaina could feel herself cry, how much had he gone through that had made him into the man he was today. When asked about herself, Jaina felt it was time to explain everything. She started from her parent’s marriage, what had happened when Thrawn originally went after her parents and uncle, how a cloned Emperor tried to possess her newborn brother, her abduction at age 5, her adventures at the Jedi Academy, and the signing of the Bastion Accords five years ago.


Hearing her words and the actions he would take (or rather not take now that she was here), Thrawn felt himself feel angered, sickened, and dismayed. He was angered knowing that he would have handed his heart’s half over to a crazed Jedi who did not deserve someone so wonderful. He was sickened by the fact the Moff Council would allow a low-level actor to impersonate him just to keep a war running, and he was dismayed learning that Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa were twins. It was obviously a well-kept secret if someone of his intellect (and security clearance) could not have figured this out.


“I guess we’re more alike than we thought,” Jaina mused thoughtfully as she finished her tea. Thrawn helped her stand and for the first time in over a week, they shared a heartfelt, tender kiss. The drama was behind them, and they were stronger together going forward.

 

Fate, So Beautifully


A Star Wars Romance


Written by: Nehru_Amidala


Inspirations: the myth of Hades and Persephone, Sailor Moon, Edward Scissorhands, The Nutcracker, The Thrawn Trilogy, Neil Gaiman’s Stardust, Downton Abbey


Pairings: Thrawn/Jaina (Main!), Luke/Mara, Han/Leia, Jacen/Tenel Ka, Anakin/Tahiri, Ar’alani/Paelleon, Eli/Vah’nya


Author’s note: Please do not nitpick with the ideas presented here. I will not change my stories to make you happy. Also, big thanks to @pashatemur for answering my questions about Chiss society! This makes chapters 12 through 15/16 easier to write!


Tropes used in this story and trigger warnings: time travel, true love conquers all, earning a happy ending, grey vs gray morality, miscarriage, premature birth, abandonment, redemption, rising to meet your fate, to see with eyes unclouded


Timeline: Mix of Legends and Canon


Voice cast list: Thrawn- Benedict Cumberbatch, Jaina- Anne Hathaway, Luke- Mark Hamill, Mara- Karen Gillam, Han- Harrison Ford, Leia- Carrie Fisher, Jacen- Elijah Wood, Tenel Ka- Renee Felice Smith, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Paelleon- Joe Spano, Eli- David Tennant, Vah’nya- Stephanie Sheh,


Author’s note: I claim nothing, except this is probably the VERY FIRST fan fiction is Star Wars fandom history to pair Thrawn with Jaina Solo. Having read all the Legends books, I can say for certainty that everyone will be in character. Any naysayers will be fed to Moro no Kimi.





Stave 11: Stopover On Coruscant

4 July 3 ABY was forever known as the (Second) Battle of Hoth, where the Rebel Alliance had been forced to retreat following a trouncing, led by Darth Vader. Honors had been given to Piett and Veers for bravery in battle. In between his meeting with Thrawn and Jaina, Vader boarded his personal ship, the Executor, and began prowling the starlanes, dispatching thousands of probe droids. He was hoping to find his son and get him to assist with overthrowing Old Baldy. Skywalker saw himself as a Jedi and would rather die than join his old man. If that was the case (and there was a very good chance of this outcome), Vader would merely say he didn’t need his son. Luke’s daughter by Leia Organa from 26 years down the road would do a better job, perhaps. Skywalker would be at a loss- he would have to join forces with Vader, regardless! It was brilliant, brilliant I tell you!


While Vader was out plotting family reunification, Thrawn and Jaina were planning the next steps in their relationship. Both had dated in the past, and Thrawn had been serious with Ar’alani back in their twenties, before the Vagaarai invasion and the slow realization on both ends that they were better off as friends. As it stood currently, Thrawn still had loyal friends in high places. Ar’alani (who was now a general in the Expasionary Defense Fleet), and her superior officer, Bak’if, former Sky Walker now Caregiver Che’ri, and his sister Al’iastov- who was his inside person within House Mitth, now that Thurfian was not only Speaker for House Mitth, but Patrial as well.


Considering for EDF handled outsider ships, he was going to have to ask Ar’alani and Bak’if to intercede on their behalf. Problems involving time travel were well documented withing the EDF, usually time jumps were small, averaging anywhere between 48 hours and a fortnight. Anything longer, and said route was avoided at all costs, if possible. With Jaina coming from 26 years in the future, all the timey-wimey shenanigans were going to be put under the microscope. Hopefully, Lord Vader would be available to act as Jaina’s chaperone. What happened after that would be decided once they reached Csilla.


It was not yet 4 AM on the Chimaera, when Jaina opened her eyes and stared at the durasteel ceiling. Thrawn was sleeping on his side, his arms wrapped around her stomach and waist. They had started sharing a bed again after their meeting with Lord Vader, and they were taking it slowly until they both felt ready to take the plunge. Even so, there were condoms and birth control pills in the fresher’s medicine cabinet. She let out a sigh, knowing how soon her parents and uncle would soon be imperiled by both Grandfather and Boba Fett. “What a time to be alive,” she mused aloud.


“Indeed, my heart’s half,” Thrawn murmured into her ear, opening his eyes. Jaina rolled over so she was facing her betrothed. She told him what was going to happen, and Thrawn said it served Ozzel right for being such a pompous blowhard, underestimating the enemy, and the most damning of all- directly disobeying Darth Vader. As for Captain Needa, his death was uncalled for, also showed one could die with honor whilst dealing with a depressed Dark Lord of the Sith. Jaina mulled this over for a moment, before falling back asleep. Thrawn followed suit not five minutes later.


The next thing either of them knew, the FM radio alarm was going off. “INN morning news- Hello, this is Tamerlane Borgia, with breaking news out of the Hoth system, located in the Outer Rim. We have been informed by Admiral Kendal Ozzel of the Death Squadron that very soon they will be crushing the Rebel Alliance in a sneak attack…” Thrawn turned off the radio.


He turned on his viewscreen, it was possible INN was livestreaming the story. Jaina snorted, what a showoff! The hologram showed Ozzel fielding questions, and boasting it was his idea to surprise the Rebels. “Pardon my line of questioning, but wouldn’t the Rebels be alert to your presence if they intercepted the probe droid’s coding,” Borgia inquired. Ozzel scoffed at this line of thinking, surprise was best!


It was here Piett appeared (his SD was being repaired after an accident involving a school of purrgill), and cut in, “This story is over. Please expect a press release after the battle is over.” The live coverage was cut, and Tamerlane apologized for the interruption, and said INN would share the press release once they had been given a copy.


“We both know how it all goes down, so what in the blinking galaxy possessed Ozzel to even give a live interview en route to battle,” Jaina commented to Thrawn as they made the bed. Thrawn wasn’t sure, but said it was probably due to pride, with a dash of stupidity.


After the bed had been made, hospital corners and all, Thrawn hit the shower while Jaina brushed her teeth. Whoever took the first shower of the day varied, but Jaina loved seeing Thrawn towel off. To think, she had this sapphire god to herself. Jaina could only blush! Thrawn knew she had been eyeing him and teased her, wearing his towel around his hips, “Easy on the eyes, am I?” This broke Jaina out of her daydream, and he kissed her sweetly, before leaving to get dressed.


Once they were in their uniforms, off to breakfast. As they walked along, Thrawn observed Jaina’s uniform. Olive green was a tricky color to wear, it certainly hadn’t done him any favors. Jaina sensibly had gone for the trouser option instead of the jodhpurs, and they accentuated her long, toned legs. From a practical perspective, trousers just looked nicer. She smiled at him as a caught up with Eli, who fell into step with them. Eli was helping Thrawn with finding an engagement ring for Jaina, and they had it narrowed down to a couple of choices. If Thrawn ordered it within a day, it would be on board no later than the ninth.


The officer’s commissary was a step up from the one reserved for support staff and stormtroopers. Actual (organic) food, rotating weekly menus, cloth napkins, and a fully stocked bar and flatware made of sterling silver. Upon entering, it seemed some of the officers were in a foul mood, but why? Lyste waved them all over, “The puffer pig bacon ran out, and there was a near riot when the vegetarian option was served instead.” Jaina choked down a snort, the officers were rioting over a lack of bacon? Thrawn agreed, it was idiotic. Of course, it was Konstantin leading the charge- they wanted red meat! Paelleon tried to talk him down, but all he got for his efforts was a broken nose.


Jaina took a bite and was pleased. “You can’t tell the difference,” she announced. Thrawn, Eli, and Lyste were inclined to agree, the only difference was caloric intake. As they were enjoying the cafs before shift start, there was a clamor of boots rushing the counter! A dozen officers, including Konstantin, were storming the register. Thrawn shot his blaster at the ceiling and activated a panic button under the table. A whole platoon of stormtroopers burst into the dining room, and promptly cuffed the dithering morons.


Standing on the bench, Thrawn addressed the rabble rousers, “Enough of this! You are Imperial officers of the Seventh Fleet, and all of you are under arrest for enacting a mutiny en masse. All of you will be held in the brig, until we reach Coruscant, where your punishments will be handed down by Imperial High Command.” There were loud complaints from everyone as they were hauled away- the loudest coming from Konstantin. Jaina had recorded this for trial evidence. Now, to write up the report for the ISB.


“An insurrection over bacon?! Such ingratitude during a major battle, I am disgusted,” Palpatine shrieked during the call with Thrawn and Jaina later that morning. The galaxy’s reigning Sith Lord was not in a good mood. First, Bevel Lemelisk had weaseled his way out a deadline regarding the second Death Star, and escaped house arrest; Vader lost track of the Rebel fleet, and now Konstantin led a mutiny over a lack of bacon! Thrawn calmly explained his follow-through and had included Jaina’s video evidence as backup. Palpatine then requested, “As a seditious leader, Konstantin must be made an example of. Bring them all here, I wish to deal with these peons myself. Also, I an holding an Imperial Intelligence meeting tomorrow, I request your presence. Your aide shall also attend.” Palpatine cut off the video, ending the call.


Jaina admitted she was feeling anxious about meeting Emperor Palpatine face to face, but Thrawn assured her with the shielding she had done for the past weeks, that would do the job. She felt happier after hearing this, thank goodness. A lambda class shuttle was prepped for Thrawn, Jaina, and the accused officers. Paelleon and Eli were left in charge until the others returned. Konstantin was once again complaining about his unfair treatment. “I don’t think you realize how much trouble you’re in,” Jaina informed him. Konstantin spat on her, but Thrawn slugged him for that.


It was just before noon, local time, when the shuttle landed at the Imperial Palace. A retinue of Royal Guards stood at attention, and it was unnerving to see. This is where Jaina had been born and grown up, after all. Thrawn gave her hand an affectionate squeeze. “Breathe, my heart’s half. I am at your side,” he told her.


Palpatine strode to meet them, in his usually wizened, hunched form. Thrawn bowed and Jaina curtseyed, and the Sith inquired about Konstantin. Said man was brought out, and he once again spoke out and reacted badly, “Who is this tramp you are paying homage to?” Konstantin had only seen images of the kindly grandfather avatar of said Sith Lord. Palpatine hobbled over to him, and their eyes met. It was only now Konstantin realized he had publicly insulted the Emperor. Kassius groaned in embarrassment, and wished he was dead.


“You will get your wish, heh heh. Grand Admiral, Lieutenant, follow me please. I have gotten word that the other eleven have been imprisoned. I have planned a public flogging for them at sunset. I expect to see you then,” Sheev informed them. Thrawn nodded, and as he escorted Jaina back to his apartment, she caught sight of a very familiar redhead. Aunt Mara? Hustling out the door, and dragging her boyfriend with her, Thrawn asked her to slow down. Jaina blushed, and Thrawn knew she wanted to avoid drawing more attention to herself, thereby polluting the time stream even more. Visiting Csilla to have her presented as his fiancée, with Vader as her chaperone seemed like an excellent idea.


Thrawn’s apartment was at 500 Republica, the ritziest property in the Federal District. In fact, Thrawn had been gifted the apartment, after his promotion to Rear Fleet Admiral, and that had been a little over six years ago. The former occupant had been Senator Amidala, also known as Mrs. Darth Vader- the irony was not lost on Thrawn at all. Taking the exterior turbolift, they reached an large, airy chamber hued in soft neutral tones. The furniture was of antique design and the walls were covered in art. It was part living space, part art apartment. There were three rooms to each side of the main chamber, and on the lower level, rooms for the servants and security details.


Thrawn pulled Jaina into a very deep and passionate kiss. His arms wrapped around her shoulders, and Jaina stood on her tiptoes. It was quiet in the apartment, except for the sound of water running in one the apartments next. Jaina happily sighed, it was rare they had some time alone, and Thrawn suggested they have some lunch. Jaina, who was feeling puckish agreed. They wandered into the kitchen and raided the fridge. Between the two of them, they whipped up some tip-yip sandwiches with a mustard vinaigrette and beet greens, along with some hot tea. After lunch, and the dishes were stashed, Jaina wandered off and Thrawn found her sacked out in the bedroom. Smiling softly, he removed her boots and tunics, and likewise did the same, before holding her close and dozing off.


The plaza where the public flogging was held was a stone arena where snipers held practice. Jaina had an empty feeling in the pit of her stomach as she and Thrawn filed in with other officers of high rank. “I have a bad feeling about this,” she told Thrawn, who was agreeing with her. Oddly, Vader was also there. Earlier in the afternoon, Thrawn had floated the idea of taking Jaina to Csilla to present her to the Syndicure as his fiancée, and Vader agreed to be her chaperone. He was too focused on finding the Rebel fleet, and this would give him the chance to refocus on finding his son. They would all leave first thing after the intelligence meeting.


Once they were all sitting, Palpatine charged them as guilty of sedition and mutiny, and the punishment was flogging to death by knotted whips. One Deathtrooper per accused, and the whips they used were iron and jagged with knots of barbed wire. The whips cut into the flesh slowly, and the smell and sight of blood was almost too much to bear. Jaina tried her best not to be physically sick in front of everyone, but the shock made her pass out into Thrawn’s arms.


Palpatine turned around, “Has she not seen a public execution before?” Thrawn said Jaina had lived a sheltered life by her isolationist aunt and uncle on Corellia who ran a flight school. Vader agreed and made the suggestion that the young couple retire for the night. Palpatine bid them good night, and Thrawn returned home, putting Jaina right to bed and fell asleep soon after, holding her close.


Meanwhile, Vader fed of the fear and agony as the men pleaded for their lives. Ah, much better. Once the spectacle was almost over, Palpatine had the heads severed and stuck on pikes. Pleased with such a gory sight, Palpatine walked cheerfully off to dinner with his concubines. “Good riddance to bad rubbish,” Vader commented as he made his way back to his own quarters. Tomorrow was going to be quite the interesting day.

 

I love Howl's Moving Castle!

Vis a vis the infamous "Chimaera Bacon Rebellion," what a grizzly way to go!

 

Well, Konstantin was on borrowed time and when he doesn’t get red meat, he gets crabby. Thank you for reviewing!

 

Interesting and different take on the characters @Nehru_Amidala
I like how you assert yourself and your vision without compromise

It’s interesting to read a pairing that I would never anticipate, and to see Jaina witness events happening to 1. People like Mara who she’ll only know much older, and 2. People who she’s only heard about such as Vader

Vader’s internal thoughts are a highlight- his sense of humor makes me want to see how he’d do in a Marvel-like movie

I noticed the Doctor Who reference- maybe a shout-out to your casting of David Tennant?

Benedict Cumberbatch would make the perfect Thrawn, and while I’ve always pictured Hilary Swank as Jaina, Anne Hathaway is another good choice.

Very interesting to see high ranking officers having common human problems and experiences (getting the right engagement ring)

 

You are going to love the next few chapters.
Preview cast list:
Ysanne Isard- Lucy Liu (think O-Rin Ishi)
Supreme General Bak'if- Mark Harmon (Space Gibbs!)
Ar'alani- Angie Harmon (more Abbie Carmichael than Jane Rizzoli)
Al'astov- Liv Tyler
Che'ri- Jessica Brown Findley
Thurfian- Dan Steven

 

Fate, So Beautifully


A Star Wars Romance


Written by: Nehru_Amidala


Inspirations: the myth of Hades and Persephone, Sailor Moon, Edward Scissorhands, The Nutcracker, The Thrawn Trilogy, Neil Gaiman’s Stardust, Downton Abbey


Pairings: Thrawn/Jaina (Main!), Luke/Mara, Han/Leia, Jacen/Tenel Ka, Anakin/Tahiri, Ar’alani/Paelleon, Eli/Vah’nya


Author’s note: Please do not nitpick with the ideas presented here. I will not change my stories to make you happy. Also, big thanks to Pashatemur for answering my questions about Chiss society! This makes chapters 12 through 15/16 easier to write!


Tropes used in this story and trigger warnings: time travel, true love conquers all, earning a happy ending, grey vs gray morality, miscarriage, premature birth, abandonment, redemption, rising to meet your fate, to see with eyes unclouded


Timeline: Mix of Legends and Canon


Voice cast list: Thrawn- Benedict Cumberbatch, Jaina- Anne Hathaway, Luke- Mark Hamill, Mara- Karen Gillam, Han- Harrison Ford, Leia- Carrie Fisher, Jacen- Elijah Wood, Tenel Ka- Renee Felice Smith, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Paelleon- Joe Spano, Eli- David Tennant, Vah’nya- Stephanie Sheh, Ysanne Isard- Lucy Liu, Supreme General Bak’if- Mark Harmon, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Al’iastov- Liv Tyler, Che’ri- Jessica Brown Findley, Thurfian- Dan Stevens


Author’s note: I claim nothing, except this is probably the VERY FIRST fan fiction is Star Wars fandom history to pair Thrawn with Jaina Solo. Having read all the Legends books, I can say for certainty that everyone will be in character. Any naysayers will be fed to Moro no Kimi.





Stave 12: Homecoming, Part 1

Of all the Imperials Jaina Solo-Thrawn feared, Imperial Intelligence director Ysanne Isard was the one she feared the most. As is flying under the radar on the Chimaera was safe enough (it was, to a point) even with Thrawn’s protection, a meeting of the top minds was going to be her first real test of her Force shielding. She was so nervous she barely ate dinner and had a hard time going to sleep. Thrawn had a harder time trying get her to calm down. “All that will be required of you is to look pretty, serve tea and take notes for me. You will be fine, my heart’s half. I will be there, and Isard will not harm you. You are my aide, and she cannot touch. She most likely talk down to you, and if you do not react- you will be fine,” Thrawn implored her. He kissed her gently, and Jaina was able to fall asleep.


The meeting was held in the Imperial Palace, in a large, sunny room. This was where Leia had her office, and Jaina had spent many happy hours playing there, but now she was preparing to meet people who had either died by the time she was born, or who had retired into private society. She was gripping the datapad so tightly her knuckles were turning white. Thrawn squeezed her hand, and this is where they met up with Vader. They greeted him and the Sith Lord said this was Jaina’s final test, to see if she could truly stand on her own two feet as an Imperial officer. Jaina let out a ragged breath, time to get this over with.


Isard was standing at the head of the table, and she nodded to Vader and Thrawn. “Well! You’re not much to look at, are you,” Isard barked. Jaina looked down, “I suppose I’m not.” Isard snorted, “You at least know your place.” Thrawn and Vader were glaring daggers at her but maintained the masquerade as more men joined. Piett was there, his arm had been broken in the fighting out at Hoth, Gideon looked like he wanted to dissect something, and who should scuttle in but Bevel Lemelisk? Seeing as how the members were all there, Isard began by demanding to know what news was there. She was like a shark in a way, looking for blood and traitors to hang, furthering Palpatine’s already slipping grasp on the galaxy.


Thrawn explained the Chimaera Bacon Rebellion and how all 12 officers who had participated in the seditious act had been executed yesterday evening under the Emperor’s watchful eye. Jaina carefully poured tea and caf, before setting the mugs on a floating tray and offering it to everyone in the room, as protocol demanded. Isard was pleased with Thrawn’s swift response and made the order that all officers have no bacon whatsoever for the next year effectively. Thrawn, who preferred sausage himself, said he would see to that immediately. That meant, Jaina had to type up the executive order and send it to all ranking officers within the Seventh Fleet to ensure it was enacted immediately. Jaina showed Isard what she had done, and the older woman nodded curtly.


Gideon and Piett’s reports were much as to be expected, the town outside Mount Tantiss was slightly restless, but nothing a strict curfew and planned Holonet outages couldn’t counteract. Piett said Ozzel had been dispatched after giving an unauthorized interview on INN. When Isard countered Ozzel should have gotten permission, Firmus explained that the interview had come out of left field, and that they had all been under Lord Vader’s direct orders to prepare for battle.


Isard did not fear Vader at all, and everyone in the room thought this was most foolish. She turned to Vader, filled with contempt. “Well Vader, you let the Rebel Fleet escape to terra incognita, you allowed an inferior officer to give an unauthorized interview, these mistakes have cost Intelligence hours and credits we will not get back,” she rasped. Striding over, and nearly stepping on Jaina’s toes, she got right in Vader’s face. She hollered at him about how was screwing up months of dedicated undercover work and blowing deep ops within the Rebellion.


Vader had dealt with Isard before, and he was not having any of it. Bad enough, he got it from Palpatine more times than he wanted to count, but this- this was the last straw. Standing up, he used the Force to forcibly sit Isard down, and it was his turn to lecture her. “I do not answer to the likes of you, Director Isard. Ozzel was dealt with, and furthermore, the Rebel fleet will be found. I was not given a timetable, and you should learn your place.” He curled his finger, and Isard began to panic, grasping at the papers lying on the table, sending half filled mugs over onto to the table. Jaina wiped up the mess as the woman gasped for breath. Isard gagged and dry heaved for a moment before ordering everyone out. She did however, have the where withal to keep Lemelisk there, in order to curry favor with Old Baldy.


“She reminds far too much of Orson Krennic for my tastes,” Vader said casually as he strolled along with Jaina and Thrawn. They were taking a smaller frigate to Csilla, and Ar’alani and Bak’if had been informed of Thrawn’s return with his betrothed and had requested they intervene on behalf of the Chiss Expansionary Defense Fleet. It had been over 13 years since the Syndicure had “exiled” Thrawn, and now he was returning with a fiancée who had time traveled from over 25 years in the future, and she had pertinent information she felt both the Syndicure and the Aristocra would be very interested in hearing. On top of that, she an honest to goodness princess on her mother’s side of the family, and her grandfather was a Sith Lord and a man of high rank and a fierce warrior. Considering how family oriented and militarized Chiss society was, Thrawn was returning in a grand triumph. As it stood, both the Syndicure and the Aristocra had voted overwhelmingly to reinstate Thrawn as a Fleet Admiral in the CEDF, merit adopted of House Mitth, and whatever pay he had earned over the years was unfrozen. Al’iastov was going to be thrilled her big brother was coming home and getting married.



It was a two-day trip for the shuttle to get from Coruscant to Chiss Space, and that was considering the space anomalies and the sheer distance it took from the center of the galaxy into a place that was barely mapped at all. Thank goodness for a point five hyperdrive engine, otherwise it would have taken a week. Vader did not have a week, he had Rebels to hunt and a son to find.


As the hours passed, Thrawn gave Jaina her engagement ring, or rather a betrothal ring, the actual engagement would happen at the beginning of the following year. Jaina started crying and she peppered Thrawn with kisses. Vader tried not to roll his eyes, he was jealous at their happiness. The young couple excused themselves.


Thrawn had told Jaina that they could only kiss in the privacy of the house that had been left to him in Thooraki’s will, otherwise they would stick to hand holding and fond gazes. Jaina said this made sense, an older culture that in some ways was a bit more reserved than neighboring sectors in Known Space. “You will have to use the Force to reveal what happens in the future. Will you be up to the challenge,” he asked quietly. Jaina said she was ready and was looking forward to meeting everyone. Thrawn chuckled at her enthusiasm.


As they strapped in, the shuttle lurched out of hyperspace, and greeting the small Imperial craft were three gunboats, several squadrons of clawcrafts flying in formation, and a central assault frigate. The central frigate was Bak’if’s flag ship, Skidbladnjer. One of the lower ranking officers said that an outsider ship was hailing them. Bak’if grinned, Thrawn’s triumph had been achieved. He could not to rub this in Thurfian’s face the next time the two men met.


A holographic symbol representing the CEDF popped up on the captain’s viewscreen, and it was handed to Thrawn. Thrawn activated it, and the form of a middle aged Chiss male in an immaculate black uniform, medals strung along across the lower neckline. Saluting Thrawn, he intoned in formal manner, “Csei s carcir sakn han'asit Bak'rah bah ch'at Expansionary Defense let'ir, hailing ect'aseo nizat Slytherin. K'ir vah tahn ch'ah?” (This is Supreme General Bak'if of the Expansionary Defense Fleet, hailing Imperial Shuttle Slytherin. Do you read me?)



Letting a small smiled cross his face, Thrawn greeted his old friend. “Csei s carcir Mitth'raw'nuruodo, batahn ch'abcesit Thrawn, vim nah ritot vah ror tisci bah ch'at ect'aseo ect'asei.” (This is Mitth'raw'nuruodo, Grand Admiral Thrawn, and we greet you on behalf of the Imperial Empire.)



Bak’if nodded and gazed over at the girl and the asthmatic cyborg sitting next to him, and asked warmly, “Ttis'ah, ch'itmon'o ch'acevi. Vea cart veo hirci vah ch'atvun'bovah vamci bah vah?” (Please, old friend. Who are your guests you bring home with you?) Thrawn gestured to Jaina and then Lord Vader, allowing them to speak for themselves.


Jaina bowed her head, and blushed a little bit before clearing her mind, “Ch'ah cart Mitth'Jai'nasolo, bah Buhn Tiri catazib- Rutas. Ch'eo en'casn'im'i nuhn cart Jaina Rutas, vim Ch'ah cart vasabin'ci ch'at to cssun'i bah to ch'itksoo ttin'abi Ch'atbasio. Ch'eo csen'ai cart Tsen'sum Leia Organa bah Ch'atbasio, vim Ch'ah csact'i vumer bobav rar mir can to carcen'casi vim Ch'ah cart k'ta ch'a tao'can'in't can to Ect'aseo Let'ir, veah na veah Mitth'raw'nuruodo ch'aah vatt'in't. Tah viz tsacan'b ch'ah veah reo vur ch'aah boun'i, vim tah cart ch'eo veah na.” (I am Mitth'Jai'nasolo, of House Skywalker-Solo. My core name is Jaina Solo, and I am heir to the throne of the late planet Alderaan. My mother is Princess Leia Organa of Alderaan, and I time traveled twenty six years into the past and I am currently a lieutenant within the Imperial Navy, as well as Thrawn's aide. He has claimed me as his heart's half, and he is mine as well.) Bak’if grinned at Thrawn, it was about kriffing time the younger man found his heart’s half. A week or so of social observation, and they could be formally engaged in Chiss society. His attention now turned to Vader.


Vader’s Cheunh was not as fluid as Jaina’s, and it was punctuated with his heavy, mechanical wheezing, “Ch'ah cart To ren'mur Csesin K'user, bavrcso ch'in ch'at Ect'asearcsi Palpatine bah to Hit sceso Ect'aseo Ect'asei. Ch'ah cart Jaina ch'aah ticsen'o ch'azi, vim csarcican't cart len sit'at bohn neo roncan'i.” (I am Lord Darth Vader, right hand to Emperor Palpatine of the Galactic Imperial Empire. I am Jaina's maternal grandfather, and will be her chaperone during our stay.)



Bak’if nodded, they had done their homework. He spoke Basic well enough, but he still had a thick regional accent (Rentor born and raised and proud of it), and so far all was going well without incident. The Ascendency were allies with the Empire, after all. “Thank you all for your introductions. Please pilot the shuttle into the cruiser’s landing bay, and I shall greet you in person.” The transmission cut off, and the pilot turned a questioning look to Vader. The Sith pointed to the cruiser, and shuttle Slytherin was soon inside the durasteel docking bay.


The landing ramp was lowered and Thrawn strolled down first, holding Jaina’s hand. Hand holding was allowed for betrothed couples, kissing and making out in public was not. Vader followed, his cape billowing behind and his ominous breathing filling the space. The Chiss soldiers and staff, both men and women were all standing at attention. They must have been informed outsiders of considerable social standing were arriving.


That was what they had been told, for it was now Bak’if strolled out, and he was overjoyed to see Thrawn alive and well all these years later. You could see it in the way he carried himself, they way his eyes shown, at least from Jaina’s observations. She deduced that the Chiss communicated more with nonverbal body language as well as words, and she would be correct on that matter. He shook hands with Thrawn, and kissed Jaina’s hands gently. He would have profferd his hand to Vader, but the Sith Lord did not offer a hand, only a brusque nod of the head. “Right then, let’s go to my office for we have much to discus,” Bak’if told them.


The cruiser was roughly half the size of a Star Destroyer, so it took less time to get to Bak’if’s office. The troopers had helmets, but you could see their eyes. Much more practical for seeing your target. “At least they can shoot straight, Imperial troopers can’t,” Jaina commented offhandedly. Bak’if was surprised by this, what was the point of stormtroopers wearing helmets if they could not see. Vader snorted, the helmets were based off what the clones had worn during the Clone Wars, and it had been Lemelisk’s brilliant idea to change where the lenses were, and it was uniform across the board. He failed to take into account height, weight, and possible vision issues.


Bak’if’s main office was much the way Thrawn’s was, with the exception on the space maps and the wooden furniture. He had a percolator going and offered his guests tea. There were several forms on his desk, and Thrawn was curious about them. Bak’if explained that with Thrawn’s return, the Syndicure and Aristocra had overwhelmingly voted to restore his rank within Chiss society not as a trial adoptee, which was what it had been before his exile, but not he was a ranking distant, his bloodline was officially part of House Mitth. Thurfian had dragged his feet on the matter, but had been soundly outvoted. “This applies to you as well, my dear,” he explained to Jaina. She nodded and said she was still trying to figure out the ranks within Chiss society.


“Al’iastov will explain it all to you after we land,” Bak’if told them. After the forms were signed, they were sent back and were officially on record within the half hour. A toast was raised, cheers!

 

Fate, So Beautifully


A Star Wars Romance


Written by: Nehru_Amidala


Inspirations: the myth of Hades and Persephone, Sailor Moon, Edward Scissorhands, The Nutcracker, The Thrawn Trilogy, Neil Gaiman’s Stardust, Downton Abbey


Pairings: Thrawn/Jaina (Main!), Luke/Mara, Han/Leia, Jacen/Tenel Ka, Anakin/Tahiri, Ar’alani/Paelleon, Eli/Vah’nya


Author’s note: Please do not nitpick with the ideas presented here. I will not change my stories to make you happy. Also, big thanks to Pashatemur for answering my questions about Chiss society! This makes chapters 12 through 15/16 easier to write!


Tropes used in this story and trigger warnings: time travel, true love conquers all, earning a happy ending, grey vs gray morality, miscarriage, premature birth, abandonment, redemption, rising to meet your fate, to see with eyes unclouded


Timeline: Mix of Legends and Canon


Voice cast list: Thrawn- Benedict Cumberbatch, Jaina- Anne Hathaway, Luke- Mark Hamill, Mara- Karen Gillam, Han- Harrison Ford, Leia- Carrie Fisher, Jacen- Elijah Wood, Tenel Ka- Renee Felice Smith, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Paelleon- Joe Spano, Eli- David Tennant, Vah’nya- Stephanie Sheh, Ysanne Isard- Lucy Liu, Supreme General Bak’if- Mark Harmon, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Al’iastov- Liv Tyler, Che’ri- Jessica Brown Findley, Thurfian- Dan Stevens

Author’s notes: Bolygó is the Hungarian word for river since I imagine Csaplar to be an intergalactic version of Budapest. In the Parliament building’s dome, there really are statues representing the former rulers, and yes several are looking at the statute of Maria Theresa. Also, the CS is pronounced as a CH, and the S is pronounced as an SH. (i.e. Maris(h)ka Hargitay, Budapes(h)t.)




Stave 13: Homecoming, Part 2


The group had just finished toasting when Bak’if began filling in Thrawn, Jaina and Vader on what was going to happen next. The CEDF would deploy below the surface, and Al’iastov and Ar’alani would be waiting for them at the landing bay, and from there, it would be an hour’s drive into the planetary capital of Csaplar. From there, they were to proceed into the Hall of Elders, where both the Syndicure and the Aristocra held court and ran the government. As the ship drew closer to its home base, it was seen Bak’if’s office had some first-rate views as Csilla slowly lurched into view.


Jaina could feel her eyes grow wide and the glacier and granite encased world came into view. “Most impressive,” Vader rumbled. Thrawn felt relief, joy, and trepidation upon seeing his homeworld again after over a decade. Relief for finally coming home, joy at seeing his sister and presenting Jaina as his betrothed, but apprehension over how Thurfian would not only react to the news he (Thrawn) was getting married, a rise in family rank within House Mitth, but how he would act with Vader in tow. Like Jaina, he was just going to have to wait and see. Vader knew very well he could not Force choke anyone, lest he wanted to start an intergalactic imbroglio and sacrifice Thrawn and Jaina- they were key for his usurping of Sidious. The Sith Lord folded his arms and nodded in agreement.


The entry way into Csilla’s temperate interior was more or less the same as your standard docking bay. Plasma gates allowed ships entrance/egress, while keeping the vacuum of space out. Considering what Thrawn had told her about the Ascendancy’s rush to industrialize after their sun cooled following an incident with an ancient superweapon, Jaina was impressed with what they had churned out within the last millennium. “Life finds a way,” she mused thoughtfully.


Slowly, but with firm motion, the ships descended, still in fleet formation. If only Imperial ships could take off and land with such precision, Vader thought to himself. There was a noticeable thud as the ships made contact with the duracrete landing pad. “Sea ashore csei cart ch'tra ashore,” (All ashore that’s going ashore.) Bak’if joked as the intrepid band followed him down the ramp, and out into a glorious midsummer morning.


Jaina knew the caverns had artificial day and night cycles, but this was beyond imagining. If you didn’t know you were a half mile underground, you would swear you were on Csilla’s surface. The tech needed to keep this all going had to be something to marvel at. In a way, this reminded Jaina of Lord Hithrer’s worldcraft from the time she had been kidnapped as a little girl. However, this Chiss had over one thousand years to not only perfect this but export it for use on other worlds the Chiss had settled on. A sharp gust of wind scattered some leaves and ruffled everyone’s uniforms.


Jaina wasn’t sure if she was more nervous or excited, would Al’iastov and Ar’alani like her? Thrawn was certain they would; Jaina was an honorable and loyal person- she would get along with them quite easily. Little did she know, Al’iastov and Ar’alani were quite excited to meet Jaina. They had never expected Thrawn to marry someone, and now he had given his heart to a human woman not yet 21 years of age, who not only traveled over twenty years into the past, but was an honest to goodness princess to boot. Apparently, Lord Vader was her maternal grandfather, and was acting as her chaperone. Having seen her picture, they both agreed Mitth’Jai’nasolo was quite the beauty.


“Ch'ah tuzir ch'itcuto vsabah Mitth'raw'nuruodo cart k'en vamci, vim tah cart sasacun'eo k'ein's'ehn,” (I can hardly believe Thrawn is finally home, and he is formally betrothed.) Al’iastov gushed as she bounced impatiently on the balls of her heels. Normally, social etiquette demanded sober, but friendly behavior when reuniting with family members or sweethearts after a rotation serving on ship. Thrawn’s homecoming, reinstatement in Chiss society and rise in family rank was truly worth celebrating. Not to be outdone was his formal betrothal to Jai’nasolo and the reveal of what she knew and how that would effect the Ascendancy and it’s policies in the long run.,”


They were waiting in a small courtyard sandwiched in between the low brick buildings that housed the CEDF’s officer’s quarters, training and parade grounds, the hangars and repair garages, as well as the barracks for the CEDF’s ground forces who were tasked with guarding the campus. Overhead, a murder of crows squawked and flapped they attacked some hawks who flew into their airspace. “Vohun! Cseo ch'itihsint corvids,” (Ugh! Such nasty corvids!) Ar’alani commented. It was about now a black clad aide stepped out. “Han'asit Ar'alani? Nunaten Al'iasatov- van bah ch'ah ttis'ah. Rot'asahn Han'asit Bak'if viz tat veo ch'at'obart,” (General Ar'alani? Lady Al'iasatov- come with me please. Supreme General Bak'if has requested your presence.) the youth instructed crisply. Both women nodded- moment of truth!


Following the aide, Ar’alani and Al’iastov walked down the tiled floors, as aides and support staff passed by, doing whatever errands the needed to be carried out. Their combined excitement was reaching a fever pitch as they tread the corridor, and they soon reached the heavy wooden door that the office sat. Al’iastov could swear she hear a muffled conversation, and Ar’alani pushed the door open, better to get this over with. She simply couldn't stand anymore excitement; out of fear she might have a heart attack.


Thrawn looked up to see his other best friend and baby sister standing at the threshold, to overcome to speak. “Al’iastov-” Thrawn began to say before the younger woman burst into tears and gave him a crushing hug, holding him close to convince herself her older brother was truly alive. Once she had been convinced, she hugged Jaina- she had a sister now, as well. Ar’alani just gave a grin and squeezed his shoulder, “Bun'zan'i vamci,” (Welcome home!). She greeted Jaina in a friendly manner, and it could be seen the three women were going to get along swimmingly. Likewise, Vader was formally introduced, and he was given respectful salutes. This pleased Vader, and once everyone had calmed down enough, they bid goodbye to Bak’if and headed for the parking lot. “Vah cart ch'tra ch'at ch'acah veb san'csi bah to isni Csaplar, Jai'nasolo. Ch'otci ch'an'cevzo vun'rcsoim vim tsahe'ami, vim hah reb ror to Bolygo csezar vim cart hah ch'aah tsut'r vziscit. Vah veb, seo isb viz hah ch'aah tsut'r vziscit, sea can ch'itrico vizasn'i, ch'at cattir ch'an'ciuh tutoibi. Veah vah csarcican't veb, to k'ascah can vah ch'at k'abar vim ch'akasi san'csum, to btavah vah cart ror to socio- cavun'ucah rossict,” (You are going to love seeing downtown Csaplar, Jai'nasolo. Many ancient buildings and churches, and it sits on the Bolygo river and is it's own district. You see, each city has it's own districts, all in different caverns, to prevent contamination. As you'll see, the closer in you to federal and business centers, the lower you are on the socio-economic scale,) Al’iastov informed her. Jaina had seen this before on other planets, and she said as much.


All the buildings, either commercial or residential, were built of bricks or stone. Graceful trees lined the streets, and there was quite a bit of greenery. Each cavern was connected by a series of tunnels, since some caverns were more urbanized than others. The largest of these caverns were reserved for the Nine Families and everyone associated with them. The manor house itself was reserved for the Patriarch and their blood relatives. There were other houses scattered around the property, all maintained by house staff. Rank had its privilege, after all. Al’iastov had a picture of the house Patriarch Thooraki had left to Thrawn in his will, and he and Jaina would see it after their presentation. She was able to find a place to park, thank goodness.





The Hall of the Elders was where the Syndicure and the Aristocra held court and handled the Ascendancy’s government and laws. It was an imposing edifice, three acres in area, and that was just the building itself. There was a large central dome roofed with gold leaf and intricate tile work. One of the Aristocra’s walked down the granite stairs to escort them into the grand building.


The interior was well lit, and airy. The gothic arches gave way to stained glass windows in the upper levels. It felt like a cathedral in many respects, and in the main chamber, just under the dome, were statues of the founders of the Nine Families. Eight of the founders were men, but the founder of House Mitth was a woman, and this was why all of the male statues were looking at her. Jaina smiled softly at this, and the only sounds that could be heard was the drone of tourist groups from other worlds within the Ascendancy.


The chambers where the Joint Meetings were held was a large auditorium, with desks for speakers representing each of the Nine Families, but also the Forty Great Families, specially selected representatives of the Expansionary Defense Fleet, along with their aides. The politicians were wearing white and also had capes, a symbol of rank for both genders. Each one had a badge if they represented of the Nine. As they proceeded towards the central podium, the onlookers nodded neutrally towards Thrawn, and were a great deal more respectful to Vader and Jaina. When they were front and center, the Elder Speaker intoned Mitth’raw’nuruodo had returned triumphant, reinstated as a full member of Chiss society and with the official House Mitth rank of ranking distant, and this also applied to Jaina as well. Once Thrawn had accepted this recognition, he turned the podium over to Jaina. It was showtime.’

‘

Letting her shield drop and feeling the collective gazes of several hundred pairs of red eyes transfixed on her tall, willowy form, Jaina let out a deep breath and addressed the congregation, “Bun ch'ican, visot batahet vim attachés, Ch'ah cart Mitth'Jai'nasolo, vur ch'aah boun'i vim k'ein's'ehn bah CEDF ch'aah K'on'bah Ch'abcesit Mitth'raw'nuruodo. Ch'acacah ch'eo ch'azi, To ren'mur K'user, Ch'ah tuzir ipah ch'acuzah. Veah vah ch'im mihn rsah, Ch'ah csact'i vumer cat bobav- rar mir can to carcun'co, vim Ch'ah baper ch'at vucon'ev veo g'evipi csarcican't g'evipah can Rsah Rt'isi. Ch'ah csarcican't ipah ch'acuzah ch'at tsumavt can veo rt'eseci ch'at vatt'i ch'eo tisut.” (Good morning, fellow delegates, and attachés, I am Mitth'Jai'nasolo, heart's half and betrothed of CEDF's Rear Admiral Thrawn. Like my grandfather, Lord Vader, I can use the Force. As you may already know, I time traveled from twenty-six years in the future, and I wish to impart what events will happen in Known Space. I will use the Force to project into your minds to aid my words.) Having said that, Jaina tapped into the Force to demonstrate what she was talking about.


Millennia before, the Chiss had encountered both the Jedi and the Sith, and having thoughts projected at them was not pleasant. Aside from being long lived (the average lifespan was about 200 standard years), the Chiss experienced synesthesia. Jaina’s thought signature was a soft yellow and smelled of cedarwood, vanilla, and cinnamon, sounding like birdsong. So gentle was respecting was her touch, everyone allowed themselves to see her memories and mental images. Jaina did not boast, she stuck to the facts and gave the information in a straightforward manner. By the time she had finished, she had won them over, and scored quite a few brownie points for her husband and House Mitth. Thurfian decided she wasn’t horrible, but he felt he could only deal with her and her art loving husband no more than once a month, at the most.


Prolonged Force projections exhausted even the most resilient of Jedi, and Jaina was no exception. She looked pale as she finished with a sincere and quiet, “Bin'vi sir tascarah ch'ah ch'at tisut.” (Thank you for allowing me to speak.) With their business completed, they were all excused. Once they were settled into the aircar and en route, Al’iastov told them about their house. It was a two-level stone house with a gray slate roof. Elegant square windows graced all of the sides, complete with forest green shutters. There was an attached garage, small shrubs lining either side of the front walk. There were trellises on either side of the house, a gazebo and vegetable garden in the backyard. House staff from the manor house came by every day to tend to both the house and grounds. She gave Thrawn the keys, he and Jaina had an actual home now. Al’iastov insisted that they visit her cabin later on. Waving goodbye, Thrawn dipped Jaina into a deep kiss, which she returned.

The interior of the house was notable for the uniform maroon wallpaper (official House color), hardwood floors and brass wall lamps in each room. The staircase leading upstairs ran against the left wall of the entry way. There were sixteen rooms in total, eight on each floor. Each room was spacious, filled with antique furniture and looked well lived in. Plenty of room to raise a family. As was expected, Thrawn and Jaina took custody of the master suite, and Vader took a guest room. A bacta tank and medical droid had been set up for his personal use. Settling into the tank, Darth Vader began to meditate about finding his son and the best way to do so in an efficient manner.


Thrawn was having a sense of déjà vu as he dressed in a maroon set of trousers and tunic, similar to his current Imperial uniform. It was mandatory to dress in house color when you were at the estate of one of the Nine Families, and Jaina found herself wearing one of the gowns that belonged to the late Lady Thisbe, Thrawn’s adoptive mother. They were beautiful to look at and feel. They were empire waisted with crewneck collars and princess sleeves, and the shoes were Mary Jane slippers made of reinforced suede (Ar’alani had found a few pairs up in the attic that hadn’t been worn in over 300 years). Jaina’s hair was partially braided, the rest was left down. She looked fabulous after changing, and she thought the same of Thrawn.


Now that they had changed clothes and settled in, Jaina inquired what they should do. They had a few hours at their leisure before taking dinner. “We should participate in a walk about. That is when betrothed couples spend time together to see if they are compatible,” Thrawn told her. He added that while they were quite compatible with each other and the formal betrothal ceremony being held later that week, this would show Jaina was receptive and accepting of Chiss courtship rituals. She was keen, as she wanted to see more of Csaplar.


The area of Lake Balatán Park had an area reserved for couples out on their walk abouts. Most of what constituted PDA was nonverbal, only hand holding, and fond gazes were allowed. Taking in the summer colors and fauna, Jaina and Thrawn spent a lovely, quiet afternoon. They enjoyed each other’s company so much, they only got home after dark.


All it all, it had been a day well spent.

 

When I say that was very sweet, I mean both the traditional meaning and colloquial. I loved the accompanying music as well. The pieces certainly convey a spirit of happiness and wonder, the joy of returning home and the awe, beauty and technical triumph of Csapar and also the austere and regal seat of government. You conveyed so much so effectively. I enjoyed it very much! Thank you.

N.B.- Happy felicitations for the couple on their impending marriage!.

 

For those interested, here is the house Thrawn inherited. This is real house somewhere in England, where they do exterior shoots for Midsomar Murders:

 

Looks like a lovely, restful idyll! Not sure how long the Admiral can "rest."

 

Fate, So Beautifully


A Star Wars Romance


Written by: Nehru_Amidala


Inspirations: the myth of Hades and Persephone, Sailor Moon, Edward Scissorhands, The Nutcracker, The Thrawn Trilogy, Neil Gaiman’s Stardust, Downton Abbey


Pairings: Thrawn/Jaina (Main!), Luke/Mara, Han/Leia, Jacen/Tenel Ka, Anakin/Tahiri, Ar’alani/Paelleon, Eli/Vah’nya


Author’s note: Please do not nitpick with the ideas presented here. I will not change my stories to make you happy. Also, big thanks to Pashatemur for answering my questions about Chiss society! This makes chapters 12 through 15/16 easier to write!


Tropes used in this story and trigger warnings: time travel, true love conquers all, earning a happy ending, grey vs gray morality, miscarriage, premature birth, abandonment, redemption, rising to meet your fate, to see with eyes unclouded


Timeline: Mix of Legends and Canon


Voice cast list: Thrawn- Benedict Cumberbatch, Jaina- Anne Hathaway, Luke- Mark Hamill, Mara- Karen Gillam, Han- Harrison Ford, Leia- Carrie Fisher, Jacen- Elijah Wood, Tenel Ka- Renee Felice Smith, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Paelleon- Joe Spano, Eli- David Tennant, Vah’nya- Stephanie Sheh, Ysanne Isard- Lucy Liu, Supreme General Bak’if- Mark Harmon, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Al’iastov- Liv Tyler, Che’ri- Jessica Brown Findley, Thurfian- Dan Stevens

Author’s notes: Bolygó is the Hungarian word for river since I imagine Csaplar to be an intergalactic version of Budapest. In the Parliament building’s dome, there really are statues representing the former rulers, and yes several are looking at the statute of Maria Theresa. Also, the CS is pronounced as a CH, and the S is pronounced as an SH. (i.e. Maris(h)ka Hargitay, Budapes(h)t.)




Stave 14: Homecoming, Part 3


As far the official observers had been concerned, Thrawn and Jaina were truly an ideal couple. These were elders from the Aristocra and the Ascendancy who oversaw what couples courted, how they meshed together, and how they reciprocated each other. Mitth’raw’nuruodo and Jai’nasolo were fitting together so well, it was agreed by all to go ahead and prepare the paperwork announcing their formal betrothal and recognition as a member of House Mitth by marriage. Thurfian wasn’t thrilled at this turn of events, but since the younger couple had their own residence, it wasn’t like he would be seeing them at the breakfast table or anything like that. So, he agreed to go ahead and sign off on it.


Thrawn and Jaina were still holding hands as they walked into the front door, Jaina fumbling with the key as the oak paneled door open. Thrawn was smiling an honest to goodness smile, how many years had it been since he had been this happy and content. Internally, he was giving thanks to every galactic deity for bringing Jaina into his life. He felt like he was discovering some part of his soul he had locked away long ago. Jaina was feeling the same way. Ever since she met Thrawn, her life had opened up in so many ways. She had learned that Imperials were not the villains Mom and Dad made them out to be. Many of them were good and decent folks who felt the Imperial Empire was a genuine way to spread peace throughout the galaxy. She remembered Obi-Wan Kenobi’s words about how situations were perceived from a certain point of view. Having grown up the daughter of two heroes of the Galactic Civil War, she had been taught only the Rebel/New Republic perspective, but now she could see more clearly that there were good and honorable people of both sides, something which seemed to be lost in the narrative.


Considering that the Jedi of the Late Republic Era were more focused on dogma and maintaining the status quo, was it any wonder the very people they were supposed to protect turn against them? They frighten me with their thinking, no wonder Ahsoka chose to leave, Jaina mused thoughtfully as she pulled out some kielbasa, rice, beans and various vegetables. Thrawn walked into the kitchen and kissed her cheek. “And what are we making tonight,” he asked as he pulled out the needed utensils before setting the table for two. Jaina said she was making new market soup and requested Thrawn please start prepping the vegetables while she sliced the kielbasa and measured the rice.


Once the broth was simmering, Thrawn added the vegetables and began corralling the utensils as Jaina took over the rest of the cooking. The servants had left for the day back to the manor house, unsure on what to make of Jaina. Upstairs, Vader caught the scent of the cooking soup, and remembered when he and Padme had been like that. He was saddened she and Jaina had never met. Once Sidious was dead and Jaina was ruling at his side, things would be different. That of course entirely depended on if Skywalker would cooperate. Reaching out with the Force, the bounty hunters he had contacted were a few days out from joining the Death Squadron and his personal flagship. Better to focus on Thrawn and Jaina’s impending formal engagement. He decided to join them for dinner.


About an hour later, Vader lurched down the staircase, his mechanical breathing alerting the young couple he would be joining them. Thrawn had just shown Jaina to her seat when Vader joined them. “Do not rise for me, I merely wish to join you for the meal,” he told them. Thrawn nodded, and after a simple prayer to bless their home and meal, they tucked in. The dinner was delicious, and the meal went well. The discussion turned to the search for the Millennium Falcon and Skywalker. Jaina knew how this was all going to turn out, and it was vexing Vader he couldn’t get anything out of her. Thrawn was wisely staying out of this.


Dinner wound down, and once the dishes were washed and put away, Jaina asked Thrawn if there were any sports he wanted to watch. Thrawn told her he did not like sports, and they scrolled through the holoscreen with a remote when Vader called out, “Stop!” The couple turned to look at him when Vader sat down and stared at the screen. It was a rerun of the Boonta Eve Race, and sure enough, the announcers had just called his name!


“Grandfather, is that you?”


“Yes, it is, a lifetime ago. I was nine then, and that’s where I met your grandmother. I imagine all of this is still buried in Artoo’s long term memory banks. Your mother hasn’t had memories wiped, has she?”


“No, she hasn’t. Artoo will mention The Clone Wars sometimes when we have dinner guests, and Threepio will tell him to switch off.”


“Of course, he would- I programmed that chatterbox myself.”


Thrawn caught the ghost of a smile cross Jaina’s lips as they settled in to watch the race, Vader seemed interested in reliving a far happier time in his life, before his fall from grace. As the race progressed, Thrawn was finding himself drawn to the design of the pod racers, and Anakin had been the best pilot out of the whole bunch. The race had been certainly exciting to watch, and once it was over, Vader strode off to bed, seemingly in an odd state of mind. It was something neither Thrawn nor Jaina wanted to dwell on.


Jaina sat at the budoir, combing her hair as she sat in her bandeau and boy shorts. She was nervous about this, she and Thrawn were experimenting tonight with sleeping together semi-nude, i.e. in their underwear. As much as they could not keep their hands off one another during their downtime, with their formal engagement tomorrow morning, Jaina was wondering if they were going to actually go for the plunge afterwards, so to speak.


Thrawn was already in his black silk boxers, waiting for Jaina to join him. The lights had been dimmed, as she slid in and curled up in his arms. Kissing her gently, Thrawn asked if she was all right, he was a bit nervous also. His skin was surprisingly warm, and Jaina eventually let his steady heartbeat lull her to sleep. Thrawn was surprised how soft Jaina was, and was silently kicking himself for not suggesting this sooner.


“Can you sleep, heart’s half? You are very soft.”


“I can, but I can’t help to think of Grandfather, how he felt seeing his younger self.”


Thrawn squeezed her hand and reminded her that Vader had to figure this out, and soon he would be confronting her uncle. Thrawn was right about that, so Jaina finally let herself fall asleep, followed by Thrawn.


The following morning dawned bright and early, with Al’iastov stopping by after breakfast to make sure Jaina was ready for the betrothal ceremony. There was a certain way Jaina had to be styled and this was a grand formal occasion. Formal betrothal ceremonies were held at the cathedral on the Parliamentary Grounds opposite the Hall of Elders. A thick fog still hung over the sky, giving the outside world a slightly gothic feel to it.


Once Jaina was out of the shower and wearing a slip over her skivvies, Al’iastov grabbed the nearest fine toothed comb, and detangled the hair before pinning it up in an elaborate braided bun, and fastening in with hairpins as tightly as possible. After that, Jaina slipped into a light, cream colored petticoat, and then the dress itself. It was maroon satin, with open shoulders in between the tops of her shoulders and four inches down. Delicate silver chains hung across the openings, adding a slightly avant garde touch to it. The dress had a crewneck collar.


Thrawn’s uniform had been laundered and pressed until it was in as pristine condition as his dress uniforms back on the Chimaera. Vader was also up, and made sure that his armor was at its best. Once they were all downstairs, Thrawn glanced up the staircase as Jaina held her skirt as she gracefully descended.


Al’iastov poked her brother, “Csehisbah vah! k'ir nah vizehn cssi vit'cah rot'sah- vsi hah sir to cabpehn nuvci.” (Look at you! Don't get too caught up- save it for the wedding night.) Thrawn chuckled as they climbed into the aircar and made the trek back to Csaplar.


The cathedral was ancient, black ebony windowpanes surrounded by equally black granite flying buttresses and intricate stone, illuminated only by decorative glass windows that bore no colors. The pews were of cedarwood, and the house orchestra was warming up in the nave. It was tradition to play a processional before the young lady (or man depending on one’s sexual preference) was escorted down the aisle and presented to the fiancée. In the case one of the Nine Families was involved, the groom was presented with a cape to then adorn the bride (or groom). This highly symbolic act formalized the engagement of said couple, binding them together in Chiss society, as well as welcoming the young lady (or man) into their spouse’s family, immediate or otherwise.


The chaplain was tall and thin, walking with a slight limp and rather sharp minded for someone who had turned 183 years old last week. The man pulled out his holy book from which he would read to the young couple. Thrawn took his place up front, as Vader gently took Jaina’s hand.



The processional began, and Jaina was led the aisle to where Thrawn was waiting by Lord Vader. The Sith Lord had a certain pride about him leading his granddaughter to her future husband. When they arrived, Vader pressed their hands together, and Jaina was blushing brightly when her eyes met Thrawn’s. He gave her a slight smile, before the chaplain addressed the both of them.


“Visot ch'acico, nah cart vutavcah cseah s ch'at ch'acarcin'ci to k'usci k'ein's'ehn bah K'on'bah Ch'abcesit Mitth'raw'nuruodo bah to Cavrt'in'rei Bakan'bi Let'ir ch'at Jaina Rutas bah to Ect'aseo Ect'asei. Vah viz ch'acniuh vun'ran't ch'at ehe'ah k'ein's'ehn ch'at in'a ch'an'ucw, vim eihn bah ch'a mir cat non, ch'at cart csimco cabpehn veah beken tar neo votcosi vim ruseaci. Cabpehn vim to vum vun'bovah ch'at hah cart nah vuckust ch'islah. Cat veo Ch'ah cart csecisvah, ch'acniuh bah vah rsah csei s cart k'itro. Ch'ah tsapan't csei s ch'in'cati ch'at recnuto k'eb, k'ebatas, bun'kisibi vim ch'acah cacasn. Mitth'raw'nuruodo, ttis'ah bsit'esah csei s sesvio'ah veo vur ch'aah boun'i, veah vah viz tsacan'b len ch'at cart,” (Dearly beloved, we are gathered here to witness the formal betrothal of Rear Admiral Thrawn of the Expansionary Defense Fleet to Jaina Solo of the Imperial Empire. You have both agreed to become betrothed to one another, and one day with a year from now, to be lawfully wed as defined by our culture and society. Marriage and the path leading to it is not easily trod. From what I am observing, both of you know this be true. I present this cloak to symbolize faith, loyalty, charity, and love everlasting. Thrawn, please drape this around your heart's half, as you have claimed her to be.), the chaplain preached. Gingerly taking the merino garment, Thrawn draped the garment around Jaina and fastened. Jaina felt herself blush, and Thrawn met her eyes.


The chaplain lit a small dish of incense and walked around the couple three times, before he invoked holy blessings upon them. This ended the ceremony as Thrawn led Jaina out to the aircar, and off to a private lunch at his favorite bistro (he had rented the whole place out for a few hours).


Seeing the young couple off, Vader returned to the house. He had paperwork to do with regards to the Battle of Hoth, and he had to contact the Bounty Hunter’s Guild to see how quickly their top agents could get to his flagship.


One chapter was ending, and the next one was about to begin.

 

Thank you for your writing, Nehru-Amidala. I find myself smiling at the images you conjure so effectively and efficiently! When you enjoy the writing of something, I feel your enjoyment is given to us, to me, anyway. Looking forward to more and seeing where this goes. Again, thank your.

P.

 

Fate, So Beautifully


A Star Wars Romance


Written by: Nehru_Amidala


Inspirations: the myth of Hades and Persephone, Sailor Moon, Edward Scissorhands, The Nutcracker, The Thrawn Trilogy, Neil Gaiman’s Stardust, Downton Abbey


Pairings: Thrawn/Jaina (Main!), Luke/Mara, Han/Leia, Jacen/Tenel Ka, Anakin/Tahiri, Ar’alani/Paelleon, Eli/Vah’nya


Author’s note: Please do not nitpick with the ideas presented here. I will not change my stories to make you happy. Also, big thanks to Pashatemur for answering my questions about Chiss society! This makes chapters 12 through 15 easier to write!


Tropes used in this story and trigger warnings: time travel, true love conquers all, earning a happy ending, grey vs gray morality, miscarriage, premature birth, abandonment, redemption, rising to meet your fate, to see with eyes unclouded


Timeline: Mix of Legends and Canon


Voice cast list: Thrawn- Benedict Cumberbatch, Jaina- Anne Hathaway, Luke- Mark Hamill, Mara- Karen Gillam, Han- Harrison Ford, Leia- Carrie Fisher, Jacen- Elijah Wood, Tenel Ka- Renee Felice Smith, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Paelleon- Joe Spano, Eli- David Tennant, Vah’nya- Stephanie Sheh, Ysanne Isard- Lucy Liu, Supreme General Bak’if- Mark Harmon, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Al’iastov- Liv Tyler, Che’ri- Jessica Brown Findley, Thurfian- Dan Stevens, Aristocra Formbi- Allen Leech, Captain Niriz- Antonio Banderas, General Covell- Michael Weatherly, Lieutenant Tschiel- Art Parkinson, Captain Voss Parck- Matt Smith

Author’s notes: Bolygó is the Hungarian word for planet (apologies for not fixing this!) since I imagine Csaplar to be an intergalactic version of Budapest. In the Parliament building’s dome, there really are statues representing the former rulers, and yes several are looking at the statute of Maria Theresa. Also, the CS is pronounced as a CH, and the S is pronounced as an SH. (i.e. Maris(h)ka Hargitay, Budapes(h)t.)



Stave 15 Homecoming, Part 4

Thrawn and Jaina may have slept well during the night, but Vader hadn’t. Sure, he had slept well enough at his main base, Bast Castle on Mustafar (he a fortress with the same name on Vjun). While yesterday’s podrace return had been a coincidence in broadcasting times, the feelings it reminded him of were eating away at what remained of his withered, decaying soul. He could not remain on Csilla, Thrawn and Jaina had to move forward without him. His destined meeting with his son awaited. Comming Bak’if, Darth Vader commandeered his own shuttle and headed back to the Death Squadron. He had mountains of paperwork to fill out, not to mention bounty hunters to greet.


The young couple were still pleasantly abed, and only vaguely aware Vader had departed when the raspy cackle of a corvid broke the early morning silence…before crashing into the window. THUD! Jaina peaked out from under the covers and yawned. She knew birds ran into windows all the time on Yavin IV, but when she opened the blinds- there was blood on the window! From the bed, Thrawn inquired as to what was going on, and Jaina told him. Curious, he got up to examine the crime scene splattered on the window.


After the lights were switched on, the bloodied outline of a large bird stained the weatherproof glass. Rentorian ravens were a diurnal species, and among the most intelligent of bird species. They only divebombed windows if had brain parasites or poor vision. Jaina wanted to investigate, and Thrawn made the suggestion they do so after eating some breakfast. They had quite the day ahead of them, early dinner, and a ball for all of the couples from the Forty Great Families and the Nine. These balls were held every 2-3 months and were personally hosted by an Arsitocra who had no personal connections/sway with any of the Nine, in order to avoid playing politics. Dinner was at 5:30 and it would all be over by 11 PM. This was because all the attendees had day jobs, and Thrawn and Jaina were scheduled to return to the Chimaera. Under Isard’s strict orders, the Seventh Fleet was receiving new commanding officers from the Eighty Third Fleet, stationed outside of Sluis Van.


Once they were in their pajamas and dressing gowns, they meandered out to the back patio, with it’s stone and brick floor. The ex-raven was not pining for the fjords, it had joined the choir invisible. Talons up in the air, Thrawn poked it with a trowel, but what caught his eye was something caught in it’s beak. “You have to see this, Jaina,” he informed her.


Going back inside for a first aid kit, and a butcher knife, Jaina chopped the bird’s head clean off. The knife made a clinking sound. Lodged in the bird’s throat was a strange looking crystal. It looked a quartz crystal you would see at a science museum, but it had a strange amethyst hue to it. It felt strangely cold and heavy, and Jaina could tell this was no ordinary kyber crystal.


She and Thrawn talked about it, and the decision was made to take it back with them and have it tested in one of the onboard science labs. They had tested plenty of kyber crystals before.


The rest of the day went on as about as normally as possible, with the main event creeping closer. The ball and dinner called for what they had worn at the betrothal ceremony, so once everything else had been packed and ready to go after breakfast tomorrow morning, Al’iastov picked them up and drove them to a smaller cavern on the southern outskirts of Csaplar, where several of the Forty Great Families has their manor houses and attached acreages.





Formbi’s family estate was old, over 800 years old and it was a veritable castle, hewn from a light yellow stone common in the asteroids sitting outside Ascendancy space. It was a fine old house, bordering on what many considered to be an outright aping of the grandeur associated with the Nine, dating from the earliest days of the Ascendancy’s foundation. Formbi himself was proud and cold, politics was his life. He thought very little of outsiders, and less of those who were fluent in Sy Bisti. He was neutral to his peers who served in the CEDF, and wasn’t exactly thrilled Mitth’raw’nuruodo married a human, but one who happened to use the Force as easily as one piloted a Clawcraft. Then again, Mitth’Jai’nasolo’s grandfather was Emperor Palpatine’s right hand, and the girl herself was heir apparent to the late planet Alderaan, and from what was understood the refugees had claimed a planet christened New Alderaan. The exiled had returned to engaged to an honest to goodness princess. He had been there when Jaina had made her presentation and while what she had shared had frightened him, but he could not deny her information was important to heed. Anyone foolish enough not to heed her warnings would come to a bad end.


Al’iastov had dropped the couple of, and as they were the first there, the butler showed them into the well-lit front hall. Servants were taking coats from the men and placing bags and purses into set aside closets. They were wearing a nondescript livery as the Forty Great Families did not have the family crests the Nine did. Formbi walked down the stairs, and bowed to the couple. Thrawn gave a small bow and Jaina curtseyed.


“Bun'zan'i ch'at ch'eo bean'i, K'on'bah Ch'abcesit Mitth'raw'nuruodo vim Nunaten Tiri catazib. Ch'ah bun'zan'i vah veah ch'a k'ein's'ehn tir csei s cas.” (Welcome to my estate, Rear Admiral Thrawn and Lady Skywalker. I welcome you as a betrothed couple this evening.)



“Nah bin'vi sir veo ch'itizisas csei s cas, Ch'asercuvsici Formbi. Ch'acniuh Jai'nasolo vim Ch'ah csarcican't cart sasco ch'at tisut na bah vah ch'at to ch'atah K'icetei.” (We thank you for your generosity this evening, Aristocra Formbi. Both Jai'nasolo and I will be sure to speak well of you to the other Families.)



Satisfied with this response, Formbi left them to find their way to the ballroom overlooking a great swath of forest. Sitting down to dinner, it was clear this was expensive to put on from the host’s perspective. A five-course meal (soup as appetizer, salad, sorbet for cleansing the palette, main course and dessert), booking the local orchestra, not to mention hiring all the servants to prepare everything, from the decorations to cleaning up afterwards.


More couples joined them, and as the evening progressed, Jaina got a good deal of talk about the interhouse rivalries, and this did not surprise her at all. It seemed that wherever she went, people were still the same, no matter the species. Dinner was delicious: cream of tomato soup, Caesar salad, lime sorbet, and then roast beef with oven roasted asparagus and sliced apples glazed in a brown sugar and red wine sauce, with slices of chocolate cake for dessert


Once the dishes had been cleared, Thrawn led her to the dance floor. It was tradition for the first dance to be a pas de deux, and as the couples joined the dance floor, Thrawn pulled Jaina close and kissed her forehead gently. Of all the couples waltzing on the floor, there was a natural grace to Thrawn and Jaina. There’s was not the arranged marriage involving dowries and long conversations between the older generations of both families. There’s had been willed by the Force, a chance meeting via time travel, and a mutual respect and true affection built over time. The older chaperones could see this a mile away, that marriage would be a strong one.




Thrawn and Jaina enjoyed themselves immensely and went to bed in high spirits. The following morning was an early one, they had to be back on board the Chimaera by 2 PM local time, and it was a tight arrival window, even with a point 5 hyperdrive. Luckily for them, Vader had one installed on one of the CEDF’s deep space shuttles. The Chimaera landing crew and all senior officers had been informed by Lord Vader about this, so they would not be blasted into oblivion.


Thrawn was reading over the changes in the officers’ roster and mentioned the names to Jaina. She knew some of them from her readings. Freja Covell lived for ground battles and was single mindedly devoted to the Tarkin Doctrine. In private, she had confided in Thrawn it had been Covell C’baoth had used his mind control tactics on, and this had led to the former’s death upon approaching Mount Tantiss. Niriz was by the books, and didn’t believe something would work unless he saw results firsthand. Voss Parck, who had been the captain who had taken Thrawn as his prisoner over 12 years ago, was cold and proud. It was said he resembled the ancient kings of the Core Worlds and had very little understanding of the ways of officers who were from further out on the fringes of the Empire. Last but not least was Lieutenant Tshchiel, who was Parck’s errand boy. He was a new recruit, and not very well trained. He ran everywhere and seemed to fumble when given basic instructions. He had no known learning disorder or physical disability, he was a young man who just happened to always be in a hurry.

“Well, what do you think,” Thrawn asked Jaina as the ship raced along the hyperspace lane back to the Seventh Fleet. Jaina said she thought they sounded like the new officers were devoted to their jobs, and if she kept maintaining the masquerade, she would get along. Kissing her softly, Thrawn told her that was a good plan to have.


The ship landed in the docking bay, where they were greeted by the new officers and Paelleon. Lyste and Eli were on bridge duty, and were slated for promotion at the end of the month. While Thrawn and Jaina had been away, the duo had gone undercover to track down a ring of illegal rank plate forgers. The criminals had been sloppy with trying to cover up their activities, and been hoping that familial contacts within COMPNOR would shield them from any sort of legal trouble. This plan (half baked at best) was carried out by a couple of bored teenagers who felt the galaxy owed them a great deal more than they had been given. Despite the pleas of their parents, the teens were forced to ten years hard labour on Wobani.


The landing ramp slowly lowered, and Thrawn strode out, quickly followed by Jaina, tapping away at her datapad. Thrawn greeted each of the officers and formally introduced Jaina as his fiancée, and Parck balked at Jaina wearing a cloak. “According to Imperial Uniform Protocol Subunit A, Section C-3: Should a Senior officer propose marriage to his aide or eligible junior officer, the young lady (or man) is allowed to adopt a cloak or external piece of clothing approved by Imperial Uniform Code Acceptance Protocol Beta, subsection 1138,” Tschiel reminded everyone. Parck’s cold grey eyes looked over Jaina and Thrawn. He still held anti-alien views, even though Thrawn had risen through the ranks at a meteoric speed, even if the Chiss had a better grasp of the larger picture. He nodded, of course.


With the meet and greet over, it was back to the bridge and into the afternoon routine. Thrawn observing everything and Jaina taking notes. Covell, while uncomfortable being in space, was pleased to see Grand Admiral Thrawn ran a tight shift, and he wouldn’t need to worry about direct commands being mucked up. Niriz could see Thrawn and Jaina worked well as a team, and he (Thrawn) was more sure of himself, confident. Parck could not see why Jaina was marrying Thrawn. In his mind, Jaina should be marrying a human, not a Chiss. It was too late for that, as Lord Vader had signed the marriage contract, and there was no way he would dare cross the Dark Lord over something so trivial. Furthermore, from what he could see, Jaina Antilles was the kind of woman who would never have some sort of affair.


Once the main day shift was over, the night shift officers took over, and everyone headed for the officer’s canteen for dinner. A delicious menu awaited them; egg salad, tip-yip vegetable soup with rice, and churros for dessert. “Been a long time since churros have been on the menu,” Niriz commented casually as he came back from getting a second bowl of soup. He had not been a fan of the salad offering, so that’s why he was going back for more soup. Parck said he had heard about the Bacon Rebellion; Isard was mad to think anyone was going to agree with the vegetarian option. Covell argued if it came from Isard’s mouth, then it might as well be considered an executive order from Palpatine himself. Tschiel, on the other hand, had eaten as though he was starving, and everyone tried to ignore his poor manners. “Were you raised in a barn or something,” Eli complained. Vanto had grown up in a farming town, but even the poorest people knew how to behave at a dining table. Tschiel said no he hadn’t, but he had not eaten lunch. “That’s still no excuse,” Parck cut in, before excusing Tschiel to finish unpacking everyone’s luggage. The younger man nodded and burst through the doors.


Dinner was much more pleasant after this.

 

Thank you once again, Nehru-Amidala.

Best,
Pasha

 

So glad you liked it, we're back up to Imperial space.

 

Fate, So Beautifully


A Star Wars Romance


Written by: Nehru_Amidala


Inspirations: the myth of Hades and Persephone, Sailor Moon, Edward Scissorhands, The Nutcracker, The Thrawn Trilogy, Neil Gaiman’s Stardust, Downton Abbey


Pairings: Thrawn/Jaina (Main!), Luke/Mara, Han/Leia, Jacen/Tenel Ka, Anakin/Tahiri, Ar’alani/Paelleon, Eli/Vah’nya


Tropes used in this story and trigger warnings: time travel, true love conquers all, earning a happy ending, grey vs gray morality, miscarriage, premature birth, abandonment, redemption, rising to meet your fate, to see with eyes unclouded


Timeline: Mix of Legends and Canon


Voice cast list: Thrawn- Benedict Cumberbatch, Jaina- Anne Hathaway, Luke- Mark Hamill, Mara- Karen Gillam, Han- Harrison Ford, Leia- Carrie Fisher, Jacen- Elijah Wood, Tenel Ka- Renee Felice Smith, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Paelleon- Joe Spano, Eli- David Tennant, Vah’nya- Stephanie Sheh, Ysanne Isard- Lucy Liu, Supreme General Bak’if- Mark Harmon, Ar’alani- Angie Harmon, Al’iastov- Liv Tyler, Che’ri- Jessica Brown Findley, Thurfian- Dan Stevens, Aristocra Formbi- Allen Leech, Captain Niriz- Antonio Banderas, General Covell- Michael Weatherly, Lieutenant Tschiel- Art Parkinson, Captain Voss Parck- Matt Smith

Author’s notes: The opening paragraph is my homage to T.S. Eliot’s Old Possums Book of Practical Cats, which was adapted by Andrew Lloyd Webber into the musical, Cats. I have never seen the musical, but I have read the poems.




Stave 16: By The Emperor’s Hand


Voss Parck, Captain of the Imperial Navy, was a most persnickety man. If he was fighting Rebels, he would prefer fighting space pirates. If he was fighting Rebels, he would prefer pirates. If there was tip-yip on the menu, he would want steak. If he had steak, he would rather have tip-yip. On Corulag, he was the man about town, spending time at Macavity’s, a most particular club where men would read and discuss economic news, sports, and hunting. For Covell would continue to do as he did, and there was nothing to do about it!


Dinner was to his liking, but he would have preferred cream of mushroom soup and molten chocolate cake on the menu and said as much. “You are such a fop,” Niriz complained, “never satisfied with what you have.” Parck retorted he was satisfied with where he was, and considering how long he had been a captain, he seemed to be happy with the middle rank. Covell rolled his eyes, leave it to the younger generation to get lazy when they hit a certain rank or related pay. At least with Thrawn, he rose to the occasion. While Thrawn was good at what he did, it had to be said Jaina Antilles was a good influence on him.


The day shift ended, and as Jaina and Thrawn turned in for the night, he asked her about what she thought of the new officers on board. Jaina said Niriz and Covell were easy to read; by the book and rational. Parck thought a bit too much of himself, and Tschiel had no idea what he was doing. Thrawn nodded, with the lack of officers on board the Seventh Fleet, Isard had sent over four who would be a good fit. Besides, the Seventh Fleet wasn’t held in high regard, mostly because Thrawn was running things. “You’re not human,” Jaina responded before leaning over to kiss him. Thrawn stroked her cheek gently and returned the kiss. Turning out the light, they fell asleep nestled in each other’s arms.

(Love Theme- The Dark Crystal)

The next morning was clear for a couple of hours, and this allowed Thrawn, Jaina and Eli plenty of time in the science lab to experiment on the odd kyber crystal they had brought back from Csilla. Placing it in a small petri dish, Eli lowered a see-through blast shield around it, and ran a sonic test. When vibrated, the average kyber crystal resonated at A sharp and sounded like a bell. This sounded more like the piercing cry of a lone reed pipe. Taking notes, Eli hit a switch and applied an electric current. Zzzzap!



A blinding flash of light send the men to the floor, but Jaina approached it, it was calling her. The dark hue of the crystal snaked out around her, calling her. Jaina stepped closer, she saw things, places, out of time and space, but at the same time familiar. Faces, names, and places flashed before her eyes, the wail of a flute, the rasping orders of the Skekses, the wonder of Aughra’s observatory. “Turn it off,” Thrawn ordered as he shielded his eyes from the neon glare. “I can’t, it’ll cause a feedback loop and explode,” Eli argued from the other side of the room, “We need to inform Lord Vader about this!” Jaina touched the crystal, and it exploded. Jaina fell to the floor, and Eli nodded, “Well, hot dang! You would have to go and marry a Force sensitive now, wouldn’t you?” Thrawn glared at him, this was not the time!


What was left was a very ordinary quartz crystal that zapped lighting every few seconds. Eli was excitedly jotting down in a notebook; this was a scientific breakthrough! Thrawn had managed to raise the blast shield and made his way over to Jaina. She was quite frazzled from the experience, and was muttering the phrase, “By Gelfing hand or none at all.” He gently shook her shoulders, only for Jaina to look past him…and faint. Thrawn and Eli exchanged a glance, this was not good. Making the situation even more complicated, who should walk in but Paelleon? He looked around the room, and Jaina passed out in Thrawn’s arms, Eli’s notes, and the lightning emitting kyber crystal. “What the hells is going on in here,” he asked in an exasperated tone. Thrawn and Eli exchanged a glance, where to begin?


First things first. Jaina needed medical attention, so Thrawn had a med droid tend to her in their bedroom, while Thrawn hosted the two men. Once the men were seated, Thrawn pulled up the reports and showed them. “What is going with Lieutenant Antilles, Thrawn? Who is she?” Paelleon was not about to break up the marriage, he was concerned about what Thrawn may be getting into.


Thrawn let out a deep sigh, “Lord Vader swore me to secrecy about Jaina’s origins, but after witnessing what happened with the kyber crystal, it was bound to come out sooner or later. That said, what I am about to tell you must not leave this room.”


Both men agreed, and Thrawn said simply, “Jaina Antilles is the daughter of Han Solo, as you rightly expected, Captain Paelleon, but her mother is not Qi’ra- her mother is Leia Organa of the late planet Alderaan. Of course, the timing doesn’t add up, and there is a reason Lord Vader left her in my care. Jaina Antilles, or rather Jaina Solo-Thrawn as she will be known as after we are wed, is Lord Vader’s eldest grandchild, and Heir to the Empire.”


Paelleon and Eli felt their eyes go wide and jaws go slack, even with the DNA test results right in front of them. Eli asked, “It’s well-known Leia Organa was adopted, but how in space is Darth Vader her biological father?” “Vader wasn’t always ensconced in that armor of his, and whoever his wife was probably gave her up. So, the question is, why was Jaina piloting Luke Skywalker’s X-Wing? Thrawn dropped the bombshell, “Luke Skywalker is Leia Organa’s twin brother, and Jaina time travelled from twenty-six years in the future to our time.”


“Say what now?”



Thrawn repeated himself, and both men had to ask questions. While there were known instances of time travel were well recorded, the fact Jaina was born in possible peacetime, there was the fact what happened in the future was more or less set in stone, but even then, certain events would already be in flux. Hence the caution and secrecy. It was here Jaina entered the room, having heard everything.


“So, now you know the truth,” she said matter of factly. Paelleon confirmed this, but he and Eli promised her secret was safe with them. Now, there next step was to send the findings to Lord Vader, and possibly pay him a visit with said crystal. Also, what bothered Thrawn even more was that he may have seen the face of the Grysks, he was going to have to take Jaina to Rentor to investigate further.


Back on the Executor, Vader had finished the paperwork with regards to the battle of Hoth. He let out a sigh, the representatives from the Bounty Hunter’s Guild were here and waiting on the main bridge. It was the usual group, Boba Fett, Bossk, Dengar, and IG-88. “Bounty hunters, we don’t need their scum,” one of the deck officers sniffed. One of the junior officers agreed and handed him a report.


Vader strode back and forth as he addressed the motley crew, “There will be a substantial reward for whoever finds the Millennium Falcon. You can use any means necessary, but no disintegrations.” This last part was aimed mostly at Fett, who had a bad habit of frying bodies before they reached the correct Imperial garrison. It certainly had not helped the last time Fett tangled with Skywalker on Tatooine, Skywalker nearly died. “As you wish,” Fett replied. With their orders given, the bounty hunters left. Fett piloted the Slave 1 to wait for the Falcon to leave. After all, Boba Fett was the best bounty hunter and easily knew how to track his quarry.


It was about know Vader got Thrawn’s report on his datapad. Retiring to his chamber, Vader meditated on what would happen next. It was unfortunate that Paelleon and Eli had discovered Jaina’s true identity, but the longer she stayed in this time, more people were going to put two and two together. Of course, Paelleon and Vanto could keep a secret. He could not let Palpatine find out about Jaina, and how was he going to get Thrawn and the Seventh Fleet away for the next year or two.


Vader read over the text, and watched the video file of the kyber crystal experiment. Having bled his fair share of them in his time as Dark Lord of the Sith, he had never seen one act this way before. Something about this one small shard seemed to be oddly attuned with the Force in such a way crystals from Illum were not. In the report, Thrawn theorized that whatever planet in the Unknown Regions it was from, there was the distinct possibility that the Force, or something like it, originated from here. With meteorites and comets crashing into planets and carrying debris from one sector to another, this was a plausible theory.


Summoning his datapad, he typed up a message to Thrawn:

From: darth_vader@imperialnavy.co.emp

To: grand-admiral-thrawn@chimaera.imperialnavy.co.emp

About: Kyber Crystal test results

The results of the test you and Commander Vanto performed were most impressive. However, kyber crystals do not react in such a way, bled or otherwise. Ergo, I am requesting you and Jaina please join me on Mustafar at the beginning of September so we can discuss our next steps.



-Vader

P.S. I have secured Padme’s wedding dress for Jaina to wear at your wedding. My valet, Vaneè, is decent at clothing alterations and hemming. He will also be on hand for the dress fitting.



As soon as Vader sent the message, he returned to the bridge. The Millennium Falcon had flown into an asteroid field, and Vader sent half a dozen Imperial Star Destroyers in there to flush them out. As he waited, he would get sporadic reports, and as the hours wore on, the ships took heavy damage, and some junior officers were getting antsy.


Now, it was just a waiting game.

 

Touché! Very clever and fitting use of Canon! In fact, I'll say it was masterful.