Jaina's head fell softly against Jag's bare chest, her cheek nestling against the firm contours. The slick feel of his skin did not bother her as she was equally sticky from their passionate exchange. One finger lazily traced the center dip of his sternum then down along the solid undulations of his stomach.
Jag's arms wrapped around Jaina, pulling her closer through the tangle of sheets and body parts. He placed a tender kiss on the top of her head as she tightened the muscles in her leg wrapped around his torso, in effect pressing their bodies closer still. Jag flopped his head back into the pillows in an act expressing his utter exhaustion.
Easing her head off its resting place, Jaina fingered her brown locks aside so she could smile down at Jag. "Much better."
Jag managed a faint smile before rolling his cheek over onto the pillow and feigning to fall asleep. "I think I shall die a happy man. You have worked this body beyond its limitations you sex-starved fiend."
Jaina placed her chin on the back of her hand, which she had rest on Jag's chest, so she was now staring up at him. "I could say the same."
Jag laughed, the sound resonating through his chest. "Liar, you have tons of energy left." He twisted his head back, then brushed her moist bangs away to get a better look at her eyes. Jaina squinted as if she was deliberating a serious thought. "A credit for your thoughts."
Jaina's eyes focused on his. The joviality of her features began smoothing away, but her eyes still sparkled. "I thought you didn't have any credits left."
As if sensing an important discussion coming, Jag tugged a pillow free from his head and placed it next to him. Jaina accepted the invitation and climbed up the bed so they were both resting with their heads on adjacent pillows staring into each other's eyes. Jaina fingered Jag's hand where it rested between the pillows.
Jag reassured his wife. "There are definitely a few credits left."
Jaina inhaled deeply. "Jag, this is all incredible and a bit overwhelming. I mean, my own ship and you being rich and all."
He corrected her. "We are rich."
"Yeah, that too, but that doesn't really matter as long as we are happy."
"I could not have said it better." His eyes danced back and forth, trying to read something in Jaina's face. "So what is the matter?"
"I want to go home." The words tumbled out before Jaina realized what was truly bothering her. Instinctively she reached for his cheek with her smooth palm. "Not that I don't consider this home, It's just that..."
Jag touched her hand on his cheek. "You want to see your family. I know. Why do you think I gave you this ship? I knew what you were thinking when you really tried to beat me the other day at the estate. I did not have a doubt when you finished me off in our sparring match. I have been ready for a while; I was waiting for you to come to the same conclusion."
Jaina propped her head up on her hand. "But I always thought you would be reluctant to leave, and then there is Zekk and countless other dangers."
Jag stared up at her. "We can't hide here forever. There are dangers everywhere. I will always consider Csilla my first home, but I helped fight to bring peace to the galaxy. We fought for the Galactic Alliance. That is our home now. Besides, I have a lot of showing-off to do with that baby girl of ours."
Jaina giggled. "You sound like you made that baby all on your own." She rolled her eyes in mockery. "What is it with men and their desire to prove they can reproduce?"
Jag's arms wrapped around Jaina, and he found herself spinning until she was nestled against his body. He nuzzled the back of her neck. "The more babies we make, the more of a man we are. I must have more."
Jaina wrapped her arms around his which were encompassing her torso possessively. "How about we defer on that until I truly forget the wonders of childbirth?'
"All right, but let me know when you are ready."
"For a man who was concerned about making love to his wife for the first time since having a baby, you have done a remarkable turn-around."
Jag nipped her ear. "Well, you proved my fears unfounded. As a matter of fact, you seemed to have come through with flying colors." He splayed his hand across her abdomen. "You can hardly tell that a baby was ever in there."
Jaina snorted. "One million crunches later!"
"No one will believe you had Keira when they see you. Other than a few more curves you are still as tiny as ever and more beautiful besides."
Jaina rolled in Jag's arms so she could see his eyes again. "When can we go home? I mean how long will it take you to get leave?" She blew her bangs off her brow lazily. "There is so much to discuss."
Jag grinned. "We could leave tomorrow I suppose, but it might be a little crazy packing that quickly."
"But what about you position in Vanguard Squadron? You can't just up and leave."
"I can if I am no longer part of it."
Jaina's eyes widened. "What are you saying?"
"As of this morning I am on inactive reserves for the CEDF - permanently." He brushed the back of his knuckles along the ridge of Jaina's cheek. "Jaina, I want to make a new life for us; I want to go back to Naboo and join Starfighter Command. I want you to be able to do whatever you want to do, whether it is Jedi business or by my side flying. Most importantly, I want for you to be happy."
A tear slipped out of the corner of Jaina's eye. "But you are giving up so much. You should have discussed this with me first."
Jag caught the tear with his finger. "What is there to discuss? It's what we both want. And what am I really giving up? Nothing you have not lost already - a home planet. We start even. All I want to do is fly and protect others. I can do that anywhere. We can build a new home on Naboo while we build a family."
Tears were rushing out unhindered. "What about your Mom and Dad and Briaun? I love them all so much."
Jag pulled Jaina to him so her face was buried in his chest. She sensed the small feeling of regret in his words as she snaked her arms around his torso. "We can visit; they can visit. I don't want to give up Csilla completely. I just don't want to live here. Besides, the warm weather of Naboo looks so much more appealing after the winter we are having."
Jaina lifted her head out of his chest and sniffled. "Jag."
"Yes."
"I love you so much."
He smiled. "I know."
Jag guided the speeder to a stop in front of their townhome and quickly powered it down. He stretched his arm across the space between the two front seats and cupped Jaina's cheek. Her head rested over to one side, her lips slightly parted in slumber. The excitement of the evening coupled with the sleepless nights that were a part of having a newborn had overtaken her body.
After a moment her eyes fluttered open. To Jag, this was always a wonderful act, calling to mind the time she had come back to life. Her eyes sparkled as she blinked slowly, her mind waking from its blissful peace.
"We're home."
Jaina's voice cracked as she straightened in her seat. "What time is it?"
Jag undid his restraints. "A little before five."
Jaina seemed to spring to life, unbuckling herself and reaching for the door release. "Keira's going to be waking up any minute."
Jaina was out the door before Jag could respond. He lifted the driver's door and climbed out as Jaina rounded the speeder. He caught her as she bounded up the steps and clamped his arms around her tiny torso hidden under the folds of her coat. Jag leaned over and whispered in her ear.
"One last kiss?"
Jaina spun in his arms, beaming up at him. She wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned into him seductively before arching her neck and parting her lips. Jag stared down at Jaina's bewitching face, her eyes closed in anticipation. He soaked in the sight, unable to make a move. Finally, one of her eyes popped open.
"Any day now, Mister Fel."
"Oh yeah."
He grinned mischievously then closed the space between them, departing a teasing kiss. She opened her mouth waiting for him, but Jag only tempted Jaina, his tongue dancing just out of reach until she took control. Then the kiss became a duel for power, lips tasting, tongues exploring, mouths sucking. It ended abruptly as Jaina pulled away first.
"If I don't stop now, we'll be heading back for the ship."
Jaina spun in his arms and climbed the last few steps to the front door. Jag wiped the corner of his mouth, then followed. The door slid opened and Jaina, followed by Jag, snuck into the foyer. A deep voice stopped them in their tracks.
"Did you two have a good evening?"
Jag turned his gaze, as did Jaina, to find his father propped back in the recliner, a cup of caf steaming in his hand. "Yes, we did."
Soontir eased the chair upright, taking care not to spill his drink. "Good, you can tell us over breakfast."
Jaina slipped out of her coat. "Is Mom up?"
"She is asleep in your bedroom. I couldn't get her to leave that poor child alone."
Jag took Jaina's coat before she tiptoed down the hall. He hung it on the closet, then proceeded to remove his own parka. "She wasn't a bother was she?"
Soontir shook his head. "No, she slept the whole time. So did it go well?"
Jag puffed his chest with pride. "Jaina loved the ship. I am sure you will hear all about it over breakfast."
"And did you two come to a decision?"
Jag's tone was decidedly more serious as he replied. "Yes, it is time."
Soontir rose from his chair and crossed to his son. He draped a hand on Jag's shoulder. "Then we surely have lots to discuss this morning. Your mother and I want to talk to both of you about something as well."
Jag arched an eyebrow curiously. "Yes?"
Soontir squeezed Jag's shoulder. "Let's wait until your mother is up." He shoved his son toward the bedroom. "Go see your daughter. There will be plenty of time for planning and talking after you spoil her rotten."
Jag obeyed his father's command willingly and quietly walked around the corner to the bedroom. Jaina was framed in the doorway, standing very still. He crept up behind her to look over her shoulder.
Lying on the foot of the bed draped in a blanket obviously added after she had fallen asleep, Syal slept soundly with her hand resting on the crib. Jag put a hand on Jaina's shoulder, which she grasped in return.
"Aren't they adorable," she whispered over her shoulder.
Jag was about to answer when a meek mewing sound filtered across the room. Syal picked her head up as quickly as if someone had sounded an alarm in the room. The aging actress reached into the crib and comforted her waking granddaughter.
"Good morning, my precious princess."
The cries grew between gulps of air. Jaina tiptoed across the room as Syal sat up on the bed. Syal caught sight of Jaina and smiled. "Good morning."
"Good morning. Did you get any sleep?" Jaina stooped over and scooped Keira into her arms.
"Oh, plenty. I just can't bear to let her alone. I had five children and with each one of them, I used to panic when they slept. If I am close by I can put a hand out and check that are breathing quickly. It's just a silly fear I never outgrew."
Jaina bobbed Keira against her chest. "I know what you mean."
"Except she cheats." Jag had come up behind and leaned over to check on Keira. "Jaina just touches her in the Force, and don't even try to deny it."
Keira may have been blind, but she already recognized both her parents readily. She picked her head up from Jaina's chest and turned toward the sound of Jag's voice. Both women smiled, but Syal chose to remark on it.
"I see we have a Daddy's girl."
Jag put his finger out and Keira wrapped her fingers around it, gripping fiercely. "She just missed me. Didn't you, Keira princess?" Jag affected a sweet tone when addressing his daughter.
Syal slipped off the bed. "I will let you two have some time with your daughter." She stopped by Jaina. "Did you have a good time?"
Jaina practically beamed. "Oh yes. Thank you for packing Jag's ring. It was all perfect."
"It was not a problem. I was so excited about it all, I thought I would give it away all day."
Jaina giggled. "You covered it well, Mom. Maybe you can go back to acting."
Syal winked. "Maybe."
Jaina was the last one to make it into the dining area adjacent to the kitchen for the family breakfast. Keira, now content with a full belly, was draped over her shoulder, drooling merrily into her sea cotton blouse. Jaina crossed the kitchen and reached for a clean dishtowel, which she placed between Keira's lips and her shirt.
Turning toward the table, Jaina practically ran into Briaun, who was hurrying by with a plate full of scrambled Ruffan eggs. "Hey Briaun, I thought you were spending the night at Narwan's?"
Briaun stopped to peck a kiss on Jaina's cheek, then Keira's head. "I did. Mom and Dad said I needed to be home in time for breakfast. I guess there is big news." The teenager winked before heading to the table.
Jaina eyed Syal as she flipped the muffin pan and dropped a dozen Corellian breakfast puffs onto a plate. Jag's mother ignored her stare. Jaina turned to inspect Soontir, but he too was blatantly ignoring her, engrossed in his study of a datapad.
Two hands wrapped around Keira and scooped her from Jaina's shoulder. "Hello, Daddy's beautiful girl. Shall we share an evasive maneuver until you spit up all over me?"
Jaina traded the dishtowel to Jag's shoulder. "She burped once already. Miss Keira couldn't wait for your magic touch, but I do sense another one building."
Jag grinned before bouncing across the kitchen area, one hand rubbing Keira's back. Moments later, a tiny belch broke. Everyone in the room laughed. Syal brought the plate of puffs to the table, ushering Jaina over with her free arm.
"Come on. Let's eat."
Everyone took a seat around the small table, with Soontir at the head and Syal to his right. Briaun sat next to her mother. Jaina dropped into her customary end seat with Jag to her right. He gently guided Keira into the highchair and fastened the lap strap before glancing over at Jaina.
"Go ahead and eat. Keira and I will share some cereal."
Jaina smiled gratefully. Meals had become a strange balancing act with either Jag or herself eating separate from the others while one of them entertained Keira. Now that she was beginning to eat solid food, dinner time was even more of an adventure.
Soontir took a helping of eggs and passed them to Syal. "So, tell us about your evening."
Jaina sipped her caf, hoping to dispel the nagging urge to sleep after a night spent awake. "Oh, we had a marvelous time." Jaina held out her left hand. "Jag gave me this…" Everyone oohed appropriately. "…and something else."
Briaun bounced excitedly in place while Soontir and Syal grinned knowingly. Soontir posed a question. "So is it as amazing as Jag bragged about?"
Briaun interrupted. "What, what did Jag give you?"
Jaina laughed. "My very own spaceship."
"Blaster bolts! Are you serious? When do we get to see it? What's it…"
Syal touched her daughter on the shoulder. "One question at a time, young lady."
Briaun nodded in understanding then turned back to Jaina. "So?"
"Let's see." Jaina winked at Jag as he scooped a spoonful of cereal into Keira's open mouth, a small portion dribbled down her chin as she chomped the mush with her gums. "It's beautiful and fast and armed to the teeth. Jag did an amazing job designing it."
"When can we take it up?" Briaun bristled with barely contained excitement.
"Well I suppose we better soon." Jaina eyed Jag, who nodded, then looked to Syal and Soontir at the end of the table. "Jag and I have made a decision."
Syal turned the corner of her mouth up in assort of reassuring smile. "Tell us, dear."
Jaina inhaled sharply and felt Jag's reassuring hand grip hers under the table. "We have decided it's time to go back to Naboo. I feel almost one-hundred percent, and it's time to get on with our lives."
Soontir replied. "Your family will be so happy. Do you have a time frame in mind?"
Jag responded. "The last letter Jaina got from home said the dedication of the new Jedi Praxeum is next week. We would like to be there for the ceremony."
Soontir was business as usual as he questioned Jag further. "Do you need to get a message out to Naboo before you leave? I will have to make some arrangements to make that happen."
Jaina, still amazed at the calm reception to the news by both parents, answered. "No, I want to surprise everyone."
Syal chuckled. "Oh dear, you are going to give your poor mother a fright, but she will be so happy to have her family whole again."
Jaina took the opportunity to address an issue she felt needed to be discussed. "Although I am so excited to be going home, I don't want any of you to believe that your family doesn't mean as much to me. What I am trying to say is that I love you Syal and Soontir and Briaun so very much and I can't believe how amazing my time on Csilla has been. I just need to live my life." Jaina glanced at Jag. "We need to live our lives."
Briaun who had absorbed the news in stunned silence began to sniffle as a tear trailed down her cheek. The sight broke Jaina's heart. Jag's sister had become very special to her. She reached across the corner of the table and gripped Briaun's hand.
Briaun stammered. "I-I-I'm going to miss you."
Jaina squeezed Briaun's fingers. "I know, but we can visit. Jag and I plan on coming back from time to time, and I am sure your Mom and Dad will want to see Keira."
Briaun looked to her father as tears welled on her lower lids. He smiled warmly. "You can visit everyday if you like."
Briaun's mouth dropped open. "Not if they are on Naboo, and we are here."
Soontir's good eye sparkled mischievously. "What if I told you that your mother and I decided to move to Naboo? Would you want to go?"
Jaina eyed her father-in-law in wonder. Everyone knew that all Briaun ever talked about was moving to the Known Regions and flying for the Galactic Alliance. Briaun was out of her chair and bounding around the table, ending in her father's embrace. Jaina watched with tear-filled eyes as she felt the excitement pouring out of everyone in the room, especially her husband. Jag had willingly agreed to leave his family and the only home he had ever known to start a new life. Soontir's announcement changed all that.
Jaina swatted away a tear as Syal rose from her seat and joined her husband and daughter in a hug. As Briaun jumped to her mother's arms, a weak cry interrupted the joyous moment. Jaina turned to see her husband removing Keira from the high chair, his green eyes misty. As he folded Keira in his arms, Jaina reached across and patted her daughter's fuzzy black head, sharing a smile with her husband.
Jag turned to his father. "Are you sure about this?"
Syal responded, emotion tainting her voice. "Positive. Your father and I have discussed this at great length. There is an opportunity for 'Tir to participate in the integration of the Chiss into the Galactic Alliance. It's a perfect opportunity for us to venture out as well. By the looks of things, all our children will be planting new roots, and although we love it here, we don't want to miss those important times."
Jaina jumped out of her seat and rounded the table. She kissed Syal on the cheek and hugged her, then did the same for Briaun. When she reached for Soontir his massive arms pulled her down to his lap, and Jaina thought she would loose her breath in his embrace. From his lap she laughed up at him as Briaun plopped down on top of them both.
"This is the best news ever." Jaina grinned across the table to Jag. By the feeling in his heart, Jaina knew Jag agreed.
Pivoting the co-pilot's chair, Jag checked the timer on the hyperdrive. Less than five minutes remained until his family emerged just beyond Naboo's gravity well and announced their return to Galactic Alliance space. At the same time, Jag was excited about returning and nervous. Jaina was eager to see her family, and Jag was equally thrilled to show off Keira, but a myriad of obstacles threatened to overwhelm his happiness.
First was the uncertainty of how he would fit into the Galactic Alliance. During the war he had been a member of the Chiss military and bound by their rules and principles. Now Jag would be seeking a role in the Galactic Alliance military, a foreign, dare he say, alien organization. He could only wonder how he would be received officially.
Also, there was the concern for his family's safety that hung like a black cloud over his happiness. Zekk had been lost after Jacen and Kyp's mission failed when Keira was born. The Dark Jedi had not reappeared since then, but Jag knew the possibility loomed for Zekk to stamp out the rapture enveloping his life. Other unknown threats were just as terrifying, rogue Yuuzhan Vong or ex-Peace Brigaders bent on revenge. Jag accepted the uncertain would probably always be a part of his life, but he would be on-guard, wary of it sneaking up on the ones he loved.
"Are you worried?"
Jag glanced up at his mother who was taking a seat in the pilot's chair. He forced a casual air to his features. "Just thinking." Syal frowned disbelievingly at her son, then arched a questioning eyebrow. The fact that he was so transparent to his mother caused Jag to curl the corner of his mouth up ruefully. "All right. So you caught me."
Syal patted his leg. "I am sure everything will be fine. We are going to a planet full of Jedi and fighter pilots. Someone would have to be crazy or demented to try anything."
"The trouble is you are describing Zekk to a tee."
Syal pondered his words for a moment. "Well, your secret is safe with me. Jaina is so excited. I won't let on that you are anxious about this."
"Thanks, Mom. The trouble with that is Jaina is as stressed about it as I am. Her excitement just clouds the fact."
"Well, don't let it ruin your life."
Jag inhaled sharply as he pivoted the seat so he was facing out into the swirling view of hyperspace. "I don't plan on letting anything stand in the way of our happiness, not ever. If I did, then he would win without even trying."
"Who would win?"
Jag looked over his shoulder and found Jaina standing in the portal to the cockpit. Her brown eyes were sparkling with anticipation, and her face was aglow. Jag absorbed the radiant aura surrounding her and breathed it in like the air after a spring rain. Her happiness combined with the pretty package of her hair cascading over her shoulders in loose curls and the handsome ecru and dark green pantsuit made Jaina a vision he planned to store away for future reference.
"You look nice."
Jaina eyed her husband for a heartbeat but did not comment on his brush-off of her question. "Thanks. How close are we to Naboo?"
"Two minutes."
Jaina addressed Syal. "Keira is all fed and snuggled in her safety seat. Why don't you go strap in with her? Just in case."
Syal nodded, then rose. As they traded places, the older woman placed a hand on her daughter-in-law's shoulder. Jaina glanced up at Syal; and the two women smiled in unison. Jaina spoke first.
"I am glad you came with us. You have been such a big help with Keira on the ship. I am sorry Soontir and Briaun will miss our initial arrival."
Syal cupped Jaina's cheek. "You are welcome. You know Keira is never a bother. Soontir did not want you to possibly miss the ceremony. As soon as Briaun has packed her dorm room they will be along."
Jag interjected. "Which for my usually unmotivated sister should only take thirty minutes."
They all laughed before Syal continued. "Really Soontir had ulterior motives."
Jaina arched her eyebrow curiously. "Such as?"
"Poor Briaun is feeling a little slighted with all the attention thrown at your little angel, so he felt a trip alone would remind Briaun that she really is his little girl."
Jaina's features blanched momentarily. "I didn't realize."
Syal squeezed Jaina's shoulder. "Don't concern yourself with it. Briaun isn't really the jealous type; we just want her to know she is as loved as always." Jaina tipped her head in understanding, and at the same time Syal patted her shoulder one last time. "I will go back and sit with Keira."
Jag called over his shoulder as his mother departed. "Be sure to fasten your restraints. Jaina is flying us in."
Jaina shot Jag a dirty look as she secured the restraints over her shoulders. The hyperdrive timer began to chime with the one-minute warning. "If you're not careful, Jagged Fel, I'll install an ejection seat in the co-pilot's chair and space you."
Jag grinned as his hands deftly worked the controls, powering up shields and weapons systems, just in case. "I will take it under advisement." He stopped what he was doing and turned back to Jaina. "Did you think of a name yet? They are going to hail you, and I don't expect you are going to want to call a ship this good-looking Unnamed Freighter."
Jaina rolled her eyes as she grasped the yoke. "Maybe."
The timer began beeping its ten-second count-down, and Jag flipped the control over to automatic, allowing the computer to drop the ship from hyperspace. "I guess that means I will find out with the rest of the lower mortals."
"Exactly."
The swirling lines of hyperspace warped and broke as the ship dropped into the dark expanse of real space. Naboo loomed ahead in the viewport, half of it a kaleidoscope of white, blue and green, the other half dark in its own shadow. Jag quickly began scanning the tactical readout as Jaina inhaled sharply, absorbing the sight. Immediately a squadron's worth of fighters appeared on the board, vectoring for their location.
"We've got company. The computer is pulling up an ID now."
Jaina grinned knowingly as the formation swooped down from above their ship's plane of flight. She held her course straight for Naboo. "Trainers."
Jag dipped his head as the computer finished its analysis. "Probably a line squadron, minimal weapons, only shields are substantial."
"This should be fun."
The comm crackled with an incoming message. "Unidentified vessel, this is Nexu Lead of the Naboo Defense Force. Unscheduled flights are restricted around Naboo. Please identify your intent and purpose."
Jaina clicked the comm button on the steering yoke. "Nexu Lead, this is Nubian vessel Amidala's Legacy, requesting clearance to Theed Control."
"Nice name." Jag piped in as she finished.
"Thanks."
"Amidala's Legacy, state the nature of your business." Nexu Lead called again as the squadron formed up around the ship.
"Family business."
"That's going to go over well." Jag eyed Jaina suspiciously, wondering what she was up to.
An agitated Nexu Lead responded. "Please state the express intent of your business, including your name and the names of those you intend to visit."
"Now the fun begins." Jaina clipped the comm. "I don't think so, Nexu Lead. I want to talk to someone other than head of a training squadron. Why don't you get on the horn and dial up someone with some real power."
"Negative, Amidala's Legacy. Please state your identity and those you intend to visit. Then I will relay your request to Theed Control."
Jaina pursed her lips. "Gotta give him some props for sticking to the book." She replied to the squadron leader. "I don't think so, how about I just put down and see who I shake out of the control tower."
Suddenly the Amidala's Legacy was spiraling down and away from the formation of fighters. To their credit, the squadron took to pursuit in a speedy and organized manner. However, their training fighters were no match in speed for Jaina's ship.
"Amidala's Legacy, I must insist you desist in your descent to the planet. I have called for back-up. You are now in direct disobedience of a Naboo Defense Force directive and subject to our laws…"
Jag cleared his throat. Jaina glanced over at him and shrugged. "You can't fault a girl for wanting to have a little fun." She opened the line as she slowed the ship. "Hold your tauntauns there, Nexu Lead." The trainers caught up quickly and formed up around the Amidala's Legacy. "I'll play your game. By the way, well done. Who's your training officer? He's done a good job."
"Amidala's Legacy, I must insist you state your name and…"
Another male voice broke through the transmission. "It's all right, Nexu Lead. I will handle it from here. Amidala's Legacy, please switch to channel one-three-eight."
Jaina, recognizing the voice, clicked her comm once and switched channels. "Brance, is that you?"
"That would be an affirmative, Colonel Solo or is it Fel?"
"Solo-Fel actually, and I believe it's Lieutenant Colonel."
"No, sir. You were promoted immediately after the Battle of Naboo. They would have made you Grand Admiral if they could have."
Jaina laughed. "It's good to hear your voice, Brance. So they've got you working the trainer lines."
"Yes, I joined the Naboo Defense Force after you left. It just didn't feel right flying in anything other than Twin Suns."
"Thanks, Brance. Maybe we can do something about that."
"It would be my honor to fly with you again Colonel Solo-Fel. Nexus will take you down. You have been requested to land at Hangar 32B. An information stream should be coming with more detailed instructions."
Jaina inhaled deeply; she was not even planetside, and the emotions were already taking a hold. "Will do. See you on the ground."
Jag, who had noticed the watery sheen of Jaina's eyes, offered his calm, almost imperceptible grin. "Welcome home, sweetheart."
The twelve training fighters of Nexu Squadron flanked Jaina's silver ship as she guided it toward Hangar 32B. Approaching the immense structure's door, Jaina studied the opening and the available space inside. She cast a sideways glance at Jag, who arched an eyebrow in return.
"A tight fit."
Jaina nodded in agreement, her lips pursed in concentration as she eased Amidala's Legacy through the opening. "It will have to do." Passing into the cavernous bay, two familiar ships came into sight. She commented on the presence of the Millenium Falcon and Jade Shadow. "Looks like the private Solo-Skywalker hangar."
Jag chuckled. "That it does."
The Amidala's Legacy, now completely inside the bay, lowered until it gently met solid ground. Jaina continued to reduce power to the repulsors, allowing the landing skids to settle under the full weight of the immense ship. Once the repulsors were completely powered down, she and Jag began running through the shut down process quickly.
Jag reached into his pocket and pulled out a personal comlink. He switched it on, dialed frequency and keyed the call button. Jag worked on shutting down the shields while he waited for a response. When one did not come he keyed it again. Finally, an agitated reply came back.
"This better be good."
Tahiri stood over a table littered with flimsiplasts and datacards, pushing them around as if she were searching for one in particular. From his perspective in the doorway leading into her office in the new Jedi headquarters, Rane studied Tahiri from behind and noted the tempting bare of the back of her neck. He slipped into the room quietly. Rane was almost to Tahiri when she spoke, her hands rifling through the items on the table still.
"Hello, Rane."
Rane frowned as he slid his hands along the curve of Tahiri's waist and buried his head into the crook of her neck on the side not hidden by her braid. He nuzzled his lips against her delicious smelling skin before answering.
"It can be kind of a drag dating a Jedi. Other women would have been pleasantly surprised."
Tahiri spun in his arms and smiled up. "I am still pleased even though I am not surprised, and may I remind you of some of those things we did last night that non-Jedi women cannot do."
Rane's grin developed a wicked twist. "Ah yes, how could I forget?" He leaned into her. "Can we try that again?"
Tahiri pulled her hands between their two bodies and shoved Rane away. "Later, big guy. Master Skywalker left me tons to do before the ceremony, and it's only three days away…"
Rane feigned a hurt frown. "I am wounded. You spurn my advances. My Corellian-Chiss-fighter pilot ego will never survive." He slapped a palm to his chest.
Tahiri slipped her fingers over his. "Maybe I can spare enough time to repair your pride."
Rane grinned. He reached around Tahiri and pushed the table's contents away. Then he hoisted her onto the table so they were eye to eye. As she wrapped her arms around Rane's neck, Tahiri parted her lips and licked them. Rane accepted the invitation eagerly.
The union of their mouths was rough and fast, like both were trying to cram a good deal of passion into a short period. Rane's fingers traced a path along Tahiri's tunic, his fingertips digging into her back as her tongue battled his. Rane leaned forward, tipping Tahiri back, and she giggled in his mouth.
A chime interrupted the silence of the room. Rane never batted an eye, merely continued to taste her mouth. Tahiri moaned as Rane's lips slid down her chin, then continued along to her neck. The chime came again.
In between kisses Tahiri spoke in a husky voice. "Don't you need to get that?"
Rane groaned and stopped in mid-kiss, still holding Tahiri suspended back over the table. "Hold that thought."
He fished in his pocket and pulled out the troublesome comlink. "This better be good."
A familiar voice replied in an officious tone. "Is that anyway to address a superior officer, Captain Fel?"
Rane practically dropped Tahiri before he gathered his wits and pulled them both upright. He pivoted and walked across the room as he replied, leaving Tahiri a bit miffed and confused until she heard what he said. "Jag, is that you?"
"Yes brother, it is."
Rane spun to face Tahiri. "Emperor's black bones, it's Jag."
Tahiri's eyes lit up. "Find out where he is." She moved closer in order to hear better.
"Are you on Naboo?"
"How else would I be calling on your personal comlink?" Jag sounded amused.
"Where are you? I will come get you." Tahiri started running around her office, shutting things off. Rane arched an eyebrow as he followed her movements.
"Perfect, I was kind of hoping to catch a ride to the Solo residence."
"Are Jaina and the baby here, too?"
"I would not have left them. Listen, no time to talk. We have got visitors. Come get us at Hangar 32B. Do you know where that is?"
Rane cast a questioning look at Tahiri, who nodded an affirmative. "I can manage to find it. See you in a few." As he flipped off the comlink, Tahiri grabbed her Jedi robe and headed for the door. Rane called after her. "And just where do you think you are going, Miss Veila?"
She spun on her heel, her green eyes sparkling. "With you, of course."
"Ah, I see. You were too busy to spend time with me but…"
Tahiri sped forward and grabbed Rane's hand. "Oh, get over it." She tugged him out the door. "Jaina's home; everything can wait." Rane dragged his feet until Tahiri turned to face him. "I will make it up to you, I promise."
Rane grinned. "I will hold you to that promise." He took off at a jog, his hand gripping hers. "Come on. I can't wait to see the baby."
Tahiri and Rane disappeared around the corner at a run, excited giggles trickling through the air.
"Perfect, I was kind of hoping to catch a ride to the Solo residence." Jag smiled over his shoulder as Jaina patted him once before slipping out of the cockpit. Turning around, he spotted a familiar figure walking across the hangar in his usual self-confident manner.
"Are Jaina and the baby here, too?" Rane's voice brimmed with enthusiasm.
"I would not have left them." Jag finished shutting off the last system on his control panel. "Listen, no time to talk. We have got visitors. Come get us at Hangar 32B. Do you know where that is?"
"I can manage to find it. See you in a few."
After pocketing the comlink, Jag leaned over in his seat and popped open a storage compartment by his feet. He reached blindly for his blaster and holster. Once it was firmly in his grasp, Jag straightened, standing with the weapon in his hand. He strapped the belt around his black pants, then tied the bottom of the holster to his right leg. Feeling somewhat more satisfied, he exited the cockpit, following the sound of Jaina's voice.
Entering the kitchen area, Jag found his mother and Jaina gathering the seemingly endless supplies required when moving Keira about. He picked up one of the prepared bags and slung the strap over his shoulder. Jaina spun and headed his way.
"Let me put these extra bottles in that bag."
As she stuffed the feeding bottles into the outer pocket of his bag, Jag eyed his wife, taking particular note of the blaster strapped at her hip and the lightsaber swinging from her belt. She had not worn either while in Csilla. Jaina eyed his blaster in turn, as Jag commented.
"Can't be too careful."
Jaina winked, probably trying to dispel the unspoken fears they both harbored. "No, you can't."
Jaina hoisted the second bag full of baby needs onto her shoulder while she addressed Syal. "Can you wait with Keira for a minute until we get our plans situated? I don't want to wake her if I can help it."
Syal tipped her head. "Of course. I will give you a few minutes before heading down with the precious cargo."
Jaina peered into the baby carrier, where Keira was securely fastened and dozing peacefully. She feathered the soft curve of Keira's cheek with the tip of her finger before turning to face Jag. "Ready?"
Jag motioned toward the exit with the sweep of an arm. Jaina complied, marching past with a confident gait. He smiled to his mother then followed. By the time Jag caught Jaina, she had the ramp almost completely open. Together they walked down side by side. A pair of feet came into view, followed by the legs and body until Tycho Celchu's face appeared. He was grinning from ear to ear.
"Jaina, Jag, welcome!" His greeting was heartfelt and warm.
At the bottom of the ramp, Jaina dropped her bag and stepped into Tycho's open arms. "Fitting you were the one to meet us. It feels like old times, flying in from some crazed mission, then heading for a debrief with you." Tycho held her tight before stepping back and offering his hand to Jag.
The two men shook hands. "Good to see you, General."
Tycho looked from Jag to the stars on his shoulder. "Ah, yes. I guess that would be news."
Jaina offered a mock salute. "Congratulations are in order then, sir."
Tycho winked. "As they are for you, Colonel Solo. Or is it Fel?"
Jaina giggled. "I chose Solo-Fel. Brance mentioned something about a promotion on the way down, so I guess we are all heading up. Tell me how did they sucker you into being a general finally. I always thought you were steadfast against it."
A hint of a blush tainted Tycho's cheeks. "I suppose I did resist, but when you are given an offer too good to refuse..." Jaina arched her eyebrow curiously. "You are looking at the new CO of NDF's Starfighter Command."
Jag responded first. "Congratulations, sir."
Tycho waved Jag off with his hand. "Please, no sirs. So Colonel Solo-Fel, tell me about this mission you have been on. Did you bring my wife's namesake back for all to see?"
Both parents beamed proudly as Jaina replied. "She's still on the ship. She'll be down in a minute."
Tycho beamed. "Winter was so honored you used her name. I can't even begin to tell you."
"We struggled to find a middle name, but let's just say I was inspired during the middle of delivering the little angel." Jaina paused, her features becoming serious. The two men followed her eyes and spotted a procession of uniformed men entering the hangar. Once everyone recognized Wedge and Iella Antilles in the lead, the trio relaxed.
Tycho glanced over his shoulder. "I should have mentioned others were on the way. I was working late when the call came in to Starfighter Command that you were heading planetside. In true Solo style, Jaina, your arrival caused quite a commotion. So I handled the initial arrangements myself, which pretty much consisted of deferring to the big guns." He nodded toward his approaching friends.
Wedge was trying to maintain a dignified gait, while Iella was barking orders at the uniformed men. The businesslike authority Iella projected overpowered any excitement she might have felt. The column of men fanned out at regular intervals until the entire hangar was secured in a perimeter of guards. Only then did the older couple break into a pair of genuine smiles.
Tycho stepped aside, and Iella grappled Jaina into a hug while Wedge did likewise to Jag. The couples reversed positions, exchanging words of welcome. Finally, when the greetings were over, everyone formed a tight circle. Iella let out her breath in a hiss.
"Not that I am not grateful to see you two, but couldn't you have given us a little warning?"
Wedge rubbed his wife's back. "Forgive Iella. She's been a little stressed keeping around the clock protection on the hordes of dignitaries here for the Jedi Praxeum dedication ceremony."
Jag offered his apologies. "We did not mean to cause an inconvenience for you. On the contrary, we were hoping to slip in unnoticed for a few days, before the mayhem erupts."
Wedge chuckled. "You two are going to be the biggest news since we won the war. The war heroes return, married and with a child…" Wedge halted in mid-sentence, and his eyes widened. "Speaking of, where is that great-niece of mine?"
Jaina peered over her shoulder up the ramp. A swishing skirt glided down the length, moving slowly so as to not disturb the baby carrier accompanying it. Wedge exclaimed as he recognized his sister.
"Sweet Force, you conned Soontir into letting Syal out of the Unknown Regions again."
Jaina snorted. "We did one better. We convinced Soontir to move to Naboo."
Wedge's face reflected shock as he stared at his approaching sister. "Is it true?"
Syal smiled warmly, her blue eyes dancing. "How could we let this precious baby be so far away from her grandparents?"
All eyes were drawn to the sleeping face nestled inside a cozy sleep outfit. As if sensing the attention, Keira rolled her head lazily and mouthed her fist. Jaina accepted the carrier from Syal and pulled Keira into the circle so everyone could get a better look. Syal eased between Wedge and Iella, hugging each in turn.
Wedge boxed Jag playfully on the arm. "She's a looker already, Jag. You better lock that little lady up."
Jag grinned. "She is beautiful, isn't she?"
Iella was about to comment when her comlink buzzed. "Excuse me." Iella stepped out of the gathering and spoke in a hushed voice as the others marveled over Keira. Iella returned after a brief conversation. She addressed Jaina and Jag.
"I secured this hangar for the time being. It seems my men have caught the first in a long line of well-wishers to be sure. I will do my best to protect your family, but it seems this pair have made it past…"
A squeal of delight interrupted Iella. All eyes turned to the hangar entrance, where Tahiri and Rane had busted through the door. "Jaina!"
Jag scooped Keira's carrier away from Jaina so his wife could close the gap to her friend. The two women crashed into each other, laughing and giggling like schoolgirls. Rane continued past. As his focus left Tahiri and Jaina and turned to the group, his step faltered.
"Mom?"
Rane jogged forward the last steps and picked his mother up in a tight embrace, spinning her around once before putting her back down. Syal cupped her youngest son's cheeks and planted a kiss on him.
"Oooooo, you get more and more handsome."
"Mother…" Rane blushed as he protested. "What are you doing here?"
Syal smiled. "Your father and I decided a change was in order."
Rane grabbed his mother's hands as Tahiri and Jaina joined the gathering. "You're moving here?"
Syal nodded. Rane shot a quick eye to Tahiri as if a sudden idea had come to his mind. He recovered quickly, but the act was not lost on most, especially Jaina whose mouth contorted in a mischievous grin. As if to throw the attention from himself, Rane thrust his hand at Jag, who shifted the carrier to the other hand and grabbed his brother's hand forcefully. Instead of shaking it though, Jag yanked Rane closer and wrapped one arm around him in half of a hug.
As the two men parted, Jaina held her arms open. "Do I get a hug, too, or do you reserve all those for my friend Tahiri here?"
A chorus of snickers erupted as Rane stepped over and accepted Jaina's offer. "Welcome home, Jaina."
Jaina stepped back, eyeing Tahiri. "So I see things have progressed since leaving Csilla?"
To the blonde Jedi's credit, she kept her face neutral as she cocked her head at the baby carrier. "And the same could be said for you."
Jaina, easily distracted by attention pointed at her daughter, followed Tahiri's lead. "Yes, they have." Jag brought the carrier closer so Tahiri and Rane could see Keira. Jaina softly caressed her sleeping daughter's brow. "Keira, I would like you to meet your Uncle Rane and…" Jaina paused and stared directly at Tahiri, who was obviously besotted with the child at first sight. "…your Auntie Tahiri."
Tahiri lifted her gaze and stared into Jaina's eyes. The younger woman's eyes glistened with unshed tears. She mouthed two words, afraid to shatter the moment. "Thank you."
