Disclaimer: Star Wars belongs to Lucasfilm. My only profit from writing this story was awakening the force within myself! The entire story is written, so I'll be posting as quickly as I can edit. Please review, fav, or follow if it speaks to you.
Note: Okay guys, now we switch to light speed. The next two Volumes will differ in tone and pace because they cover thirty years rather than four. I tried to stay as true to canon (both before the original trilogy and after) as possible. As far as I know, I'm always within the realm of film canon, and sometimes in the realm of comics/books. However, I am not married to anything and if it didn't serve me, I didn't use it. I absorbed the characters, the movies, and wookiepedia to come up with my own alternate universe that ties Return of the Jedi to The Force Awakens. We have to live with the movie that JJ Abrams made. Rather than being mad about it, I decided to embrace it. The point of this story is to explore the epic love between Han and Leia and the tragic unraveling of their family. But rest assured, no mater how dark it gets, there will always be great romance and there will always be a silver lining. Reviews mean a lot especially as we move into uncharted territory!
The story at their wedding is based on the Italian myth of Bora, the Wind of Love. I thought it was perfect for Han and Leia.
Volume II: Ben
Part V: Never Love Anyone More
Today was the day Han Solo thought would never come. First because he'd never thought he'd marry anyone. Then because he'd thought he would soon be dead. And finally, because he'd feared for one soul-searing moment that he'd lost the only woman he'd ever truly loved.
Somehow, it had all worked out. He'd been pulled into a civil war kicking and screaming against the fates and friends that put him there. He had been frozen in carbonite, packed off to hell, and then freed by the woman he had accidentally fallen in love with. He had come back to a place and a people that he had never wanted but that fit him better than anything had before.
The story had come out over time, as the heady dazzle of success had faded after Endor. He still couldn't believe parts, but since his whole life seemed to be about upset expectations, he just went with it. Not only were Leia and Luke siblings; they were twins separated at birth. And their father was none other than the monster (man?) who had made their lives a living hell since that fated day he had decided to destroy Leia's entire world. Literally.
Leia was forced to come to terms with this, but he still wasn't sure she truly had. While Luke had accepted their father, in an absurdly open sort of way, Leia could barely utter his name. Not only had he killed everyone she had ever known before Yavin IV, but he had tortured her brutally in the hours and days before they had arrived to break her free.
It wasn't something she had ever talked about, but as she tried to make sense of her newfound family, she had told Han every terrifying detail. He was both relieved and furious that the tyrant was dead. If he hadn't been, Han would have made it his personal mission to dismember Vader one robotic limb at a time.
Of course he didn't say this to Luke. Luke had a very different reaction toward his late father and archenemy. He claimed that he could feel him, even see him. He said that in the afterlife, Vader was gone and only Anakin lived on. It was a little easier when he talked about Anakin instead of the Dark Lord. Han found that as time went on, Leia got a little more curious about the young man who had fought for the Republic long before he had been irrevocably turned.
They still knew very little about their mother, and Leia was much more interested in what her identity had been. However so many of the people who would have been able to tell her were gone. For the time being, she had to table her curiosity, the New Republic demanding far more of her concentration than she could spare for legends of the old.
The fight hadn't ended after Endor despite the huge celebrations that night. The year that followed had been a dizzy combination of battles, negotiations, and new alliances. It wasn't until the Battle of Jakku that the tide had decidedly and completely turned in their direction.
Now, in the wake of the Republic victory, Han and Leia had finally found the time to tie the knot. It was a hastily constructed affair, and he regretted a little that she couldn't have the lavish wedding she had grown up expecting to have. But they knew now, after years of war, they had to grab opportunity when it was available. There would never be a better time.
So here he was in, spiffed up and spit-shined in a fancy suit, waiting for the ceremony to begin. It was taking place on Chandrila, the planet that would soon house the Senate of the New Republic. This was where Han expected they'd eventually live. He had no doubt that his soon-to-be wife would be heavily involved with the emerging government of the New Republic. Since he could be based anywhere, it was up to her where they set up a home.
It was also here, in a stolen moment, between the dangerous missions of the last year, that Han had finally proposed. He had known since before Endor that he would, but in the insanity that followed the narrow victory, he had found it difficult to orchestrate the right moment. First of all, there was the fact that he didn't have a ring. This was the first of his trials leading up to the engagement.
Nothing seemed right for Leia. And certainly nothing he could afford would be fit for a princess. But eventually he'd found something almost perfect, a weave of gold that had been created on Alderaan years and years ago, long before the blast that would spell its doom. And it had come from the most unexpected place.
General Rieekan, longtime friend to the princess, and the man who had promoted Han to the rank of General, had given it to him. It had belonged to his late wife, lost long before Alderaan had been, and the General thought there was no better use for it than to unite another young Alderaanian in matrimony now. Han had been stunned. He wasn't used to such gestures of generosity, but he had gratefully accepted it.
Then the second of his trials had begun, finding the right place to do it. He had originally thought of the Falcon, after all it had been where they'd fallen in love. But, it was practically their home these days, and the day-to-day normalcy seemed a bit too drab for such an space stations were out for the same reason. And he and Leia didn't really have a planet they felt any connection to, hers being gone and his having never felt like home.
It was only when they arrived at Chandrila, for the first meeting to reinstate the Senate that he had found the right place. It was a planet that suited his lover. Chandrila had a rich history of political culture paired with some of the most beautiful architecture in the Core Worlds.
The only trial left had been to find the perfect moment. He couldn't help reliving it now as he waited for his bride…
"...I think now's the moment, don't you?"
Han started at her statement.
"Come again?"
She laughed at him affectionately, "Where are you tonight?"
They had just left a dinner at Mon Mothma's residence. The night had been a celebration of sorts since the negotiations of the last few days had gone so well. It unanimous that Chandrila would become the new capital of the Republic. Han had known that tonight was the night. Tomorrow morning they'd be headed back to rendezvous with the forces gathered in the Malenstorr System.
Leia had been at her finest. She had spoken with nearly everyone, completely lit up by the occasion. The shock of their year apart had eventually faded, especially as the conflict had resolved between the two men in her life. With his love and Luke's, the princess had gradually and fully come back to herself. She now seemed stronger and more splendid than ever, a rising star in the Alliance's new hierarchy.
Han was happy to let her shine, especially after seeing her falter upon his return from the carbonite. It was a challenge sometimes, being the companion of someone as tireless as Leia. He wasn't always in the mood for schmoozing, and she knew it wasn't his style. Through trial and error, they developed a rhythm. He would be there when she needed him then slink off to the side when she didn't. He had a good amount of friends among this group now, and he could always find someone to talk to as Leia did her rounds.
She looked truly stunning tonight. It was a rare moment when she could really dress like a lady. Most of their days were spent shuttling from space station to Republic base and back again. She wore red tonight, a bright vivid shade, that draped across her lithe body in a scintillating way. It looked as if the pieces of silk had been laid in a haphazard pattern, criss-crossing and connecting in an irregular weave. His favorite parts were the places they failed to come together, where bits of her pearlescent skin showed through.
He was fingering one such discrepancy as he contemplated her question.
"I'm currently winning a sabacc game on Takodana," he decided.
She bumped him with her shoulder, causing his fingers to slip further into her puzzle of a dress. He stroked the smooth skin of her lower back, wondering just how far he could get before she—
"Don't ruin the dress! I borrowed it," she cried, looking behind to see what damage he may have done.
"Wouldn't dream of it, sweetheart," he drawled in a perfect impersonation of himself.
She shook her head, unable to hide her wide smile.
"If the Republic only knew…"
This was one of her favorite lines now, loving to point out the discrepancies between his General Solo persona and his more intimate one. She hadn't been the only one who had changed in the preceding months. He'd found a natural calling as a leader, able to be both ruthlessly objective and disarmingly appealing at the same time. It was a magic combination. His teams were wildly successful, both respecting and liking their commander. They would go through hell and high water to make him proud.
It was a strange thing and not at all what Han had expected for himself. But he came to care greatly about those men and women that followed him, never resting until they were all safe and accounted for. Of course that wasn't always what happened. There were casualties as there were in any war. And Leia would hold him as he invariably mourned the loss of too many young lives.
"Thank the gods they don't. It's the best stunt I ever pulled."
He liked to air out the smuggler sometimes. As they grew together as a couple and as high-ranking leaders of the New Republic, their personalities seemed to be mellowing, sanded by responsibility and the seriousness of their life. They almost called back to their old banter as if watching an classic Holo-vid, enjoying the caricatures of who they once were.
If he was honest, it scared him a little sometimes. He looked in the mirror some days and didn't recognize the man he saw. His hair was shorter, styled in a way that fit his rank. He had twin lines that had appeared on his forehead when he wasn't looking. He secretly called them Leia and Luke, tracing his worries back to the day he met them.
But he wouldn't give any of it back now. Life with Leia and the New Republic was so much richer than anything he had ever experienced. And he planned to keep it that way.
They came upon a park. Leia had already declared her love for this spot. It wasn't a large space, not like the tiered gardens in the center of Chandrila's capital. Those were famous throughout the Galaxy and they took up most of the center of town. She had liked those as well, but for some reason, this modest little park was her favorite.
It was situated between two large buildings, but still had just enough vegetation to get a little lost in. At the center stood a stone gazebo, the single large piece of architecture on the grounds. There were small sculptures scattered throughout, fanning out from the gazebo. If you stood in its center, you could turn around and catch glimpses of the different pieces of art. Tantalizing little previews that beckoned you to venture forth into the lush greenery.
This was where he took her, specifically to a little patch of grass that stood next to it. One of her favorite sculptures perched here, two lovers entwined in embrace, seemingly floating upon a small creek that flowed through the flowering plants. She said it reminded her of that night they had spent on Ord Mantell. She'd pointed at the lovers and whispered, "That's how I felt," in that soft, sweet tone she used only with him,
He cherished that night. It was one of his favorite memories, surviving somehow untainted by the violent chase that had followed. She had won him over that evening, set in motion his inevitable descent into depths of real love. It had forever changed things between them.
"You know we probably aren't supposed to be here," she sighed.
He noticed that she only mentioned this now that they already were - ensconced in the trees, away from prying eyes.
"Should have mentioned that back at the entrance, dove. It's too late now."
He shot her a wicked grin, and she smiled back, clearly not too worried about fudging the rules.
They were holding hands, facing the statue. She laid her head on his shoulder, taking it in.
"I'm glad you brought me here. I wanted to say goodbye to them," she said quietly.
"It's only for a while," he answered, feeling the nerves start to race through him. This was the place and the time. The ring burned a whole in is pocket, wrapped snugly in a piece of velvet.
"I'll miss them all the same," she replied, oblivious to his racing heart.
He cleared his throat, turning to her, taking her hands. She looked up at him guilelessly and smiled at him with clear brown eyes.
"You said they reminded you of us," he said, not knowing exactly where he was going with this.
"Yes," she agreed.
"Well, they're a little different as far as I see it." She cocked her head to the side, finally catching onto his strange mood.
"They are together forever, entwined in stone, unmovable, unbreakable," he was never a poet, and he could feel his throat drying up as if embarrassed by his clumsy attempts.
She nodded, watching him intently now, color rising ever so slightly in her cheeks.
"They will always have each other, no matter what government is running things, no matter what war is going on around them. They'll never love anyone more."
He was on a roll now, reassured by the reference to their specific situation and the light catching in her eyes. This was working.
"I can make you that promise. I've already made it to myself. I will never love anyone more than you. And if you think that you could make that promise too…"
He lowered himself to the ground, so clear in his intention that she raised her hands to her mouth.
"Then, Leia Organa, Princess of Alderaan, Soul of the Rebellion, would you do me the honor," he had the ring now, unwrapped in his palm like a little flower, "of marrying me?"
She let out a little squeak behind her hands, eyes filling up as she gazed first at him then at the ring cradled in his palm. She released one of her hands and reached out to him, fanning it in unmistakable invitation.
He smiled at her crookedly, and slipped the ring over her finger. It was a perfect fit. She finally dropped her other hand, touching the ring as she stared at it.
"It's a mother's ring," she said wondrously, holding it close to her heart.
"Oh," Han said, feeling embarrassed, "Rieekan said it was a wedding ring—"
"No, no. It is. It's the traditional ring used for marriage on Alderaan. It starts out like this," she traced a finger along the swirling pattern of soft gold, "and then you add a stone for every child born."
He felt the breath leave his lungs in a whoosh. Children? He'd only just gotten around to proposing.
She noticed his gobsmacked look and shook her head reassuringly.
"Don't worry, Daddy. We still have time before that."
Han laughed, a little nervously and gazed up at her, only now realizing he was still on his knee.
"So is that a yes?"
She laughed, brilliantly, turning her face briefly to the stars.
"It's a hell yes, Captain." And then she was tackling him, causing them both to fall to the ground. Suddenly she didn't seem to care a wit about her dress.
"How did we get here, flyboy?" she said, as they lay tangled in the grass. Anyone could have walked by, and they wouldn't have cared.
"Hell if I know, Princess," he replied, going in for a kiss against her collarbone.
It was the biggest trick the universe had ever played, them finding each other. But, he was a scoundrel at heart and always loved a good prank.
She kissed him now, catching his lips before he could say anything more. It would never cease to amaze him, the fires she started so easily. He ran his hands down her sides, enjoying the tickling rasp of the whorls of fabric as he skated by. It was only now occurring to him that they were in a relatively secluded spot. The rush of the little stream bordering them on one side, the stone gazebo standing silently on the other. The lush vegetation of the garden screened them otherwise.
"Have you ever done it in public?" he whispered against her ear, thrilling as she shuddered against him.
"Han, don't you…" but he was already laving her neck with his tongue causing her words to trail off in a moan of pleasure.
He really had no idea how to take off this dress. It seemed as if she had been woven into it. She had insisted on changing away from him, wanting the evening to feel truly romantic.
She laughed now as his hands tried to find an opening.
"I knew I liked this dress," she teased.
"You don't want me, Organa? I'm hurt," he teased back, unrelenting in his search.
She challenged that with an attack of her own, nibbling his neck the way she knew he liked.
"I always want you, Solo. Just not in a public park." She punctuated her statement with two little jabs against his shoulder.
"The hotel is so far away," he groaned, truly getting frustrated by her complicated dress.
She sighed, silently agreeing with him. She looked around, now fully measuring the space with her eyes.
"I suppose…" she started.
"Yes?" he said, turning his charm up to it's highest heat.
She smiled, enjoying keeping him on his toes.
"It is late…" she said.
"Very late," he agreed.
"No one is likely to be going to a park…"
"Nobody," he said.
"And no," she leaned into his ear, "I've never done it outside."
He felt the blood rush from his head to his other head as she ran her tongue along the outside of his ear.
"This is why I'm marrying you, Organa."
She laughed huskily, "Soon to be Solo."
He growled, grinding against her, pushing her into the grass. Giving up the struggle with the dress, he reached down to the skirt and started pushing, gathering the material at her waist.
"You know we'll have to replace it," she said, always the pragmatist.
"We can afford it," he said. "After all, I didn't have to pay for the ring."
She made a sound of acquiescence and helped him spread the material across the grass. She went to reach for his belt buckle, but he shook his head, slinking back so he was further down her body.
His eyes landed on a red undergarment, the exact same shade as the dress. Had she borrowed that too?
He asked and she let out a sound of disgust.
"Of course not," she propped up on her elbows, glaring at him.
He chuckled gleefully, always loving to get a rise out of her.
Before she could get too distracted he lowered his head and started pulling the lace with his teeth. Han had had a lot of practice as lover, and he made quick work of the panties, finishing the job with a flourish as he dropped them into the grass. She was breathing heavily now, watching him with molten eyes.
He held her gaze as he lowered himself, gently kissing her belly, one hipbone and then the other. Her head rolled back as desire overtook her and he splayed his hands across her hips.
It was one of his favorite things, this intimate act. She had been shy about it at first, like she'd been about everything. But he had quickly lowered her defenses. He had quite the oral fixation, which only made sense with his smart mouth. And Leia was breathtaking, there as much as anywhere else.
She moved against him as he slowly explored, using his fingers and tongue. It was always a different routine to fit her mood of the moment. Tonight it was lazy circles, up and then down, then around until she cried out both in pleasure and in pain, craving the release he was teasing her with. He finally gave it to her, gently biting and sucking as if into a ripe fallen peach.
She came almost violently, lifting off of the ground, whimpering with her release. He didn't let go quite yet, drinking her in, wanting to squeeze every last drop of pleasure from her tonight. Her hands were in his hair, pulling at him, begging him to come closer. He finally appeased her, sliding up her body until they were face to face.
She ran her thumb across his mouth, wiping it on his shirt sleeve.
"You're an evil, evil man," she sighed, love pouring off her in waves.
He smirked, "Well someone once called me a scoundrel, you know."
She pulled him down and kissed him now, absorbing a bit of herself as their tongues danced.
He reached down to his belt buckle, finally ready for the next phase to begin.
"Freeze!"
They both stiffened, a light suddenly pooling around them. Leia squinted, as it shined directly in her eyes.
Han wanted to turn and see who it was, but he quickly realized he was the only thing protecting Leia from exposure. And he was already going to be in enough trouble as it was.
"Make yourselves decent," a voice growled. Now that he'd heard it again, filtered eerily through a respirator, he knew it was a local police officer. Things were still a bit complicated on the ground here. Treaties were being signed, changes made, but the local law enforcement was still a mix of rebel sympathizers and steadfastly loyal Imperials. You never knew who you were dealing with.
The light disappeared giving them a moment to adjust themselves. He looked worriedly down at Leia but she just shook her head, gently pushing him so that she could sit up. She smoothed her dress down and took his hand, letting him pull her to her feet.
The officers approached when it was clear they were presentable.
"General Solo!" one of them exclaimed.
There were three, all indiscernible in their full body armor.
"Yeah, um, sorry about this…" Han tried to sound contrite.
"It's past curfew," another growled, obviously unimpressed by his person.
"Well, you see, we're actually—" Leia started.
"Above the law?" the same officer goaded.
"Not exactly," Leia bristled.
The other officer, the one who'd recognized Han turned to the rude one, "They are part of Mon Mothma's party, Rikers. They don't have to follow the curfew."
The man called Rikers let out a growl of disgust.
"But that doesn't mean they can fornicate in public."
Leia looked abashed at this, and Han felt like rolling his eyes. What guy hadn't ever—?
"You're going to be fined," Rikers continued, undeterred by Leia's embarrassment.
"Fine," Han ground out.
"Absolutely, officer," said Leia, always the good student.
Riker reached for his scanner and waited for one of them to produce a chip. Han did so immediately, just wanting this sorry business to be done with. The credits were exchanged, and Riker ordered them to move along. Immediately.
With that, he turned away shouting for the two others to follow him. The nicer one hung back, looking between the somewhat famous couple.
"General Solo, sir. I've heard so much about you. I've been thinking of joining the army, and I—"
Han smiled, just a bit. "What's your name, kid?"
"Joshua," he replied eagerly, "Amstant."
"Well, Amstant. If you ever want to leave these bucketheads, we're always recruiting. Just give them my name, and they'll make sure you end up with me."
Joshua looked as excited as he could with no facial expression visible.
"Thank you! Thank you, sir!"
Then he was off, racing to catch up with his irascible sergeant.
Han looked after him for a moment, intentionally delaying facing his now seething fiancé.
"Look, Leia…" he began.
"I don't want to hear it," she growled, marching away from him toward the exit of the park.
He raised his eyes to the sky, silently asking the gods for leniency. They stared blankly back. They knew Leia was a lost cause.
With a slight wince, he followed, chasing her through the park and back to their hotel. He only stopped to pick up her underwear, stuffing the bit of red lace in his pocket to save for a rainy day.
Han smirked as the memory slipped away. She had forgiven him. Eventually. After a lot of…persuasion. After all, they were here. In a temple, on a beautifully sunny day, about to get hitched.
Luke had returned from his wanderings, making just enough time for the ceremony and the celebration to follow. He'd been incredibly focused in the last year, mostly fighting his battles in the realm of the Force. It still surprised Han that he kept it all secret. He had assumed after the Battle of Endor, and the destruction of the Emperor and Darth Vader, that everyone would know about the part that ancient magic had played in the whole sorry affair.
But, they didn't. And Luke (as well as his sister) wanted to keep it that way. Luke said that the Galaxy wasn't ready for the return of the Jedi. They'd been gone too long, the knowledge of their true nature was nearly lost. He wanted to rebuild slowly, become an expert before he started infiltrating society.
This didn't mean he wanted to stop training Leia though. Now that they knew where their connection came from and the potential within her, he was more eager than ever to explore her new possibilities. But she was hesitant, skittish about using her latent powers.
She did so unconsciously at times, her premonitions only strengthening and multiplying with the knowledge of their source. And Han had discovered another facet to her power, a strange and lovely thing that curled his toes with delight. When they were separated, for a night or a mission, she would visit him in his dreams. It was an odd sensation at first, the way the dream would take on a new level of reality when she appeared, becoming less fractured and more malleable.
They both had freewill in this dream plane and could talk to each other and love each other much the same way they could in real life. Leia said she could only do this with him, but he had his doubts. She probably didn't even know she'd been doing it her whole life. It was how she remembered her birth mother, he assumed. Maybe she'd gone into her adopted parent's dreams, or even entered her mother's before she passed away. He did believe that she couldn't do it with Luke. Something about two Force users made that particular boundary hard to penetrate. It was a protective adaptation, they thought.
He remembered the dreams he'd had before they'd admitted their feelings for each other. And he wondered now, if they were normal dreams or if they were Force dreams. He liked to think that Leia had been coming to him even then, unconscious of what she was doing. He'd asked her, but she had demurred, always somewhat embarrassed by her talents.
He didn't quite know how he felt about it all. On the one hand, he was amazed and proud of his fiancé. He always had been. But, on the other, he felt uncomfortable, almost threatened by this wily power that she had very little control of or affinity with. He was glad she had Luke. Luke could hold her hand in places he couldn't go. They could keep each other grounded in the light and away from the dark.
She had, after all, admitted to him that it wasn't all light in there. And knowing who her father had been had only compounded that knowledge. They didn't know where Anakin had come from, the knowledge of his parentage long lost in the upheaval of the last few decades. They wondered if his father had been a Sith or another Jedi. Considering the blackness of his soul, Han was firmly camped on the Sith side.
But Leia was strong. He knew that. And he had no doubt that she would always be a force for good. She certainly had been for him.
He didn't know anything about his parents, having lost them early on as a child. All he had of them was their name, Solo. (No, he hadn't come up with it. He answered that question all the time.) He did have a sister. He remembered her better, but he'd been separated from her too. She had left to join a harem when she was fifteen. Poor girls joined much earlier than that, but she had made sure he was taken care of (inducted into a thieves gang) before she'd left.
He didn't know how he felt about her, after all these years apart. He'd only been about ten when she'd left, and he certainly hadn't been happy to see her go. But he'd enjoyed his adolescence, quickly rising to the top in his newly acquired trade. The tricks he had learned in those years had lead to an illustrious smuggling career. And then that had lead him to Leia.
Needless to say, he didn't have any family here today. Chewie would stand next to him at the alter and General Rieekan would be presiding. Luke was going to walk Leia down the aisle and then stand on her other side. The close circle was small, but it was strong. Luke was like a brother to both of them, and Chewie was their right hand man. Han knew Leia felt like the General was a surrogate father.
The rest of the guests were a mix of Republic officials and army friends. Joshua Amstant was there, having made good on his promise to seek a commission in the army. He had quickly become one of Han's favorites, a bright lad with a great sense of humor and a brave streak a parsec wide. Admiral Ackbar, Mon Mothma, Lando, and so many others were present as well.
Han was standing in a little room, waiting for the cue to go in. He was relieved he didn't have to stand before the assembly for too long before Leia would appear. It all reminded him a bit too much of that medal ceremony back on Yavin IV.
He heard the music start and knew it was his moment. His heart sped up and he let out a disbelieving laugh as he pushed through the door. What the hell was he nervous about? This was what he had wanted for as long as he cared to remember. And before that even.
Leia was the woman of his dreams, in so many ways besides the obvious one. He had never dared to hope he'd make it here, but he was damn glad that he had. The congregation was standing, littered in shafts of light coming from the open air ceiling. It was a criss cross of stone rafters, covered in hanging plants of every shape and color. It was a truly remarkable space and he had the sudden feeling that Leia wouldn't have wanted it any other way.
The music swelled as she appeared at the back of the temple. Luke was with her, beaming proudly like the parent they didn't have. She wore a simple white dress, not too different from that one she wore on the moon so long ago. But now she had a veil. The veil was the true showpiece of the outfit. It was woven of flowers, pure ivory and delicate. It was another tradition from Aladeraan and one that he especially liked. The flowers represented the spring of love. The seeds would be planted in their garden when they eventually found a home.
He never thought he'd be so cheesy, but it almost made him tear up. He sniffed, willing them away. He still had some pride, after all.
Chewie must have noticed because he dropped a paw to his friend's shoulder.
They'd both become a pair of saps. But it didn't seem to bother them too much.
Leia was almost there, and he could see her face clearly now. She looked radiant, her smile more gentle and reflective than her brother's. She held his gaze, locking into her target.
"You may now be seated," General Rieekan said in his warm baritone.
She was next to him now, kissing Luke on the cheek before turning to face him. He reached for her hands and felt them shaking ever so slightly. It was surreal, the whole thing. Finally, they'd have their happy ending and a new beginning. There was no going back now.
"We will start with a story," the General said, surprising Han with his ease upon the dais.
"There are many stories about the Bora, the solar wind that blows in the Trieste Cooridor. This is the most romantic: Aeolus, the father of the winds, used to travel around the universe with his children, including Bora, his favorite. One day Bora moved away from her father to go and play with the stars.
"After a while, she became curious and went to a nearby planet, where she met the hero Tergesteo, one of the original Jedi, who had just returned from his adventure in search of the First Temple. It was love at first sight: for seven days they abandoned themselves to overwhelming passion deep in the cave.
"Eventually, Aeolus realized that his daughter was missing and went to look for her. When he found her in an embrace with Tergesteo, a human, he was so infuriated that his rage against the hero left him lifeless on the ground. Aeolus then ordered to Bora to leave with him but she refused. She started to cry and every tear turned into stone, covering what is now the planet Karst in the rugged and treacherous mountains of today.
"Aeolus finally decided to leave Bora at the site of her lost love, where she still reigns supreme for a few days every year, when the gods allow her to revive the memory of her devastating romance: these are the days when Bora blows impetuously and asks everyone to remember that distant and unforgettable love.
"Some loves end tragically," Han felt for the man as he remembered his long departed wife, then the General laid a gentle hand on Leia's ring, "But on days like this, we celebrate the stories that end well. Leia found her Tergesteo and her tears revived him rather than kept him in stone. It was her bravery and his love that made this day possible."
Leia was crying now, happy tears slipping down her face. Han held her gaze, breathing in time with her, being strong for them both.
"Han, do you take Leia as your lawfully wedded wife? To have and hold from this, day on? Whether the Force be with you or gone?"
"I do," he said, fighting against the tightness of his throat.
"Leia, do you take Han as your lawfully wedded husband? To have and hold from this, day on? Whether the Force be with your or gone?"
"I do," she said, voice smoother than his.
"I now pronounce you husband and wife. Han, you may kiss your Bora."
In a move only he could pull off, he hauled her against him and dipped her spectacularly, planting a lingering kiss on her laughing mouth.
The congregation applauded, cheering as he righted her and kissed her again. She blushed as she adjusted her veil, smiling up at him like he was the first Jedi himself.
"You always had a flair for the dramatic," she said.
He laughed and took her hand, leading her down the aisle again.
"It's all for you, sweetheart," he called over his shoulder. "It's all for you."
They gathered in the garden, Rey's Garden, as they had found out it was called. Tonight there were twinkling lights hanging from all the trees, swaying and dancing in the light breeze. A band played, its music could be heard throughout the place, allowing the guests to wander among the statues but still be a part of the festivities. They sipped rose-colored champagne and danced in the gazebo. It couldn't have been more perfect.
Leia was ravishing. She had eventually shed her veil, displaying it in the traditional fashion for all the guests to see. Her hair was half up, half down with a few ivory flowers remaining woven into her crown. He still couldn't believe she was his. His love. His wife. One day, the mother of his children.
They danced with abandon, taking advantage of this one night away from duty and obligation. It felt like they were kids again, as he twirled her and she giggled with delight. They never sat down to a formal dinner, having had quite enough formal this year to last them a life time. Instead, waiters and droids wandered the crowd, offering trays of delicacies and delights. Mon Mothma had insisted on catering the affair and her taste was nothing if not lavish.
Luke was lighter as well tonight. He had danced with a few women, but kept coming back to a red head that Leia had known in the Imperial Senate. She'd been an aide back then, about Leia's age, and had quickly joined the Rebellion as the conflict had heated up. But their paths had rarely crossed until the last year. Stella was on Chandrila now, helping Mon Mothma build the new Senate. The women had happily resumed their friendship, as Han and Leia's travels took them back here more and more.
Han wondered what Luke would do now that he was a Jedi. The Jedi of old never married. Oh, they had love affairs. Famous ones that were passed down as stories and cautionary tales, like the one Rieekan had chosen for the ceremony. But, now that Luke was the only one and it was the beginning of a new era for his kind, Han wondered. He certainly didn't think Luke should be alone. Han was never a proponent of celibacy.
Luke seemed taken enough with Stella who whirled around him like a red tornado. They laughed and teased each other, and Han thought he'd never seen the young man seem so free.
The music slowed and the dancing mellowed. It was a classic song, a song about love long denied. He took Leia in his arms, glad now that he'd shed his jacket. The soft material of his shirt was so fine that he could feel her against him as if they were skin to skin.
"Are you happy?" he asked, gluttonous for her approval.
"So happy," she sighed, tucking her head under his chin.
He wrapped his arms more tightly around her even though he knew they were both overheated.
"Can it always be like this?" Leia said, voice floating up, tickling his ear.
"If I have anything to say about it," Han answered. He would fight to keep her happy until his last breath.
As the song drew to a close, a tinkling of glasses pierced though the crowd. Mon Mothma stepped forward, calling for a toast to the couple.
"To two of the brightest stars of the New Republic," she crooned, "May those stars ever be on the rise."
The crowd lifted their glasses in approval and drank them down.
Neither Han or Leia had been interested in speeches. They were more people of action than of words. But they had agreed to let the new Chancellor lead a toast, it was the least they could do after she'd gone to so much trouble to make their wedding an affair to remember.
They made their way to the woman and thanked her. She gave them both double kisses and stood back with her hands on their shoulders, taking them in like another arresting statue.
"I have great plans for you, Solos," she said, eyes twinkling at the shared name.
And with that rather ominous remark, she made her goodbyes, proclaiming the night a success.
Han and Leia shared a dubious look as she disappeared through the trees, posse in tow. As gracious and welcoming as the woman was, she always seemed to be on the prowl, looking for her next angle, her next big move.
But tonight wasn't about her, so they let it lie, a subject they'd come back to at another time.
They couldn't stay here forever. Even though the curfews had been lifted, as many of the Imperial sympathizers were funneled out of the local government, this was still a public park, sandwiched between buildings with inhabitants who valued their sleep.
They had an hour or two more before they would head for their hotel to get a little shut eye (or something like that). The next morning, Han would fly them to the undisclosed location he had chosen for their honeymoon. Leia had been skeptical about this, even going as far as to demand repeatedly that he reveal the location. But, he had remained firm, pointing out that she had chosen the location for both the wedding and the reception. This one was his.
Though she trusted him with her life and her heart, she still had to practice trusting him in the day to day. This mostly stemmed from her compulsive need to organize, to schedule, to control the situation. He'd always known he'd fallen for a stickler, and mostly it didn't bother him. Especially since, as time went on, she allowed him more and more leeway, as he proved his devotion again and again.
Luke knew where they were going and he'd promised to keep tabs, through a probe and his Force sense, to make sure they'd be safe from any danger. There were still threats. There'd even been some concern about having such a large gathering her in the new capital with so many illustrious persons in attendance. But they'd gone to great lengths to ensure security, and the fears had faded as the wonderful day had commenced.
Leia went to talk with her brother who had taken a break from his dancing with Stella. He knew she'd be sad to see him go. She didn't like for them all to be separated for too long, always feeling they were stronger as a team. But she also respected his need to learn about the Jedi and to forge his own path. Han would join them soon, wanting to spend some quality time with the other Skywalker as well, but he gave them a moment for now.
He spotted Lando across the grass, observing the statue that was Leia's favorite.
"Enjoying the view?" Han teased, as he came up next to the man.
"Very…educational," Lando said conspiratorially.
Han cocked an eyebrow. "I think you're an A student in that arena, Calrissian."
Lando laughed loudly, attracting a few curious stares. When they saw who they were looking at they all went back to their business. Everyone knew Solo and Clarissian were a pair of cards.
"Not lately," Lando complained. "I've been in a dry spell."
"Maybe it's karma," Han suggested, dodging a friendly jab from the former gambler.
Lando sighed. "Life in the army…it's a good thing you came in prepared."
He waggled his eyebrows lasciviously and Han couldn't help but smirk back at him.
"Told you, I'm not crazy," he drawled. "Besides, if it wasn't for Leia, I never would have joined in the first place."
"I believe you there, Captain." Sometimes, like Leia, Lando switched back to his original title. "You were the biggest swindler I ever knew. Besides myself of course."
They shared a laugh, both at the situation and themselves. Both men had changed almost beyond recognition.
"You know…" Lando started, "I've been hearing rumors. About you and a seat on the council."
Han groaned. There had been a growing swirl of gossip about who Mon Mothma would choose for her Chancellor's council. The members would be pulled from different parts of society, the army, local governments, the trade commissions. It would operate separately and in tandem with the Senate, offering further checks and balances so that the situation with the Imperial Senate would never happen again.
"That's all they are," Han said definitely, "rumors."
Lando looked at him askance, suspicious as always.
"I guess we'll see," he replied.
There were just as many rumors about Leia being put on the council, and he would much rather she be inducted than he. Or better yet, he hoped they'd both be left out of it. But from the knowing gleam in Mon Mothma's eyes, he figured he was probably out of luck there.
"Guess so," Han said. He turned back to see Leia and Luke looking over at him, as if waiting for him to finish. "I'll see you later, old buddy. Ask a lady to dance. Someone will take pity on you."
With that, he swiped a bottle of champagne from a nearby table and made his way to the two unlikely twins. Even now, knowing about their history, it was hard to see them that way. He was light where she was dark. Aloof, dreamy, and otherworldly while she remained both grounded and regal, firmly rooted in this plane of reality.
"Everything alright?" Leia asked, looking back at Lando. She liked him well enough, but she was always a bit on guard with him. He supposed she'd never truly forgive him for Cloud City.
"Just catching up. Needed a shoulder to cry on because no one will dance with him."
"Doesn't look like it's a problem anymore," Luke said, the hint of a jealous flash in his eye.
Han glanced over at the gazebo to see Calrissian dancing with the red-haired Stella.
"Hmmm," he said, "better not keep you too long then," he teased.
Luke remained passive, but Han could see the smile in his eyes.
"Everything alright with you two?" Han asked.
"Yeah." Luke smiled fully now. "Just reassuring Leia that you aren't taking her to your loot cave for the honeymoon."
Han rolled his eyes, shaking his head with disbelief.
"What, darlin'? Do you think I have a death wish?"
She smiled mysteriously and shrugged her delicate shoulders.
"You can be rather slow sometimes, dear."
He shook his head again, glaring at her playfully.
"Luke, will you tell her that she's gonna love it?" he asked, being the bigger person.
"Leia," Luke took both her hands, "just remember, it's not my fault."
Both Han and Leia laughed at this, each taking a swipe at the sniggering Jedi. Han almost wished he was coming along.
Almost.
Continued in Chapter 12