Hi everyone. Thanks for all your comments. This is the second chapter of the "Padawan Mini Arc." Ahsoka starts her research on Kiola and finds some things out about her new friend, Obi-Wan gets a lead on Bo-Katan and Anakin goes into full panic mode when he gets the call he's been waiting for. Again, there won't be any action in this chapter but there are events in this chapter which will set up a huge amount of action later on.

The Order Redeems: Chapter 37 – Research and Arrivals

Ahsoka Tano spent a few seconds getting her head together before she walked into the Jedi Archives. After a night's sleep, she felt more in tune than she did the day before and so, she decided to start the research on Kiola. This was the first time that she had entered the archives as a knight in her own right so although she had been in the libraries many times, it definitely felt different this time.

In fact, she was slightly puzzled. Since she had met the Pantoran girl at the tournament the day before, Ahsoka kept on getting a strange feeling in the Force. She could tell that the feeling was nothing bad but it was odd nonetheless. What was really confusing her was that the feeling was similar, but not completely identical, to the feeling that she always had in the presence of her former master, Anakin Skywalker. This only added to her confusion as that feeling got stronger as she entered the library. Since she knew that the feeling was nothing dangerous, she just chose to ignore it however.

As she walked through the library, she brought her attention back to the task at hand. If she was honest, Ahsoka didn't really know exactly what to research. She knew her mission was going to be ensuring that the election takes place, so she figured some knowledge of their voting system was worthwhile; especially after Obi-Wan told her that it was unusual. What else to read up on though, Ahsoka wasn't sure. Ideally, she would've liked some information on the renegade group but there was no way that the archive would have any info on them so she decided to read up on some of the planet's culture and traditions in the hope that it would give her some insight. Ahsoka frowned as there was one other thing that she did desperately need; the details of the killed families and children. She was not looking forward to that.

As she approached the librarian's desk, she decided to think about that later. For now, she would just concentrate on getting some basic information on Kiola. As soon as she saw the desk, Ahsoka was shocked. She expected to see Madame Jocasta Nu, the chief librarian. Instead however, she saw the same Pantoran girl that she had met the day before. Ahsoka could see that the girl was basically doing the librarian's job and Ahsoka was extremely surprised. She couldn't help but smile, however, as she walked up. "Hello again."

The girl looked up from her work and her face broke out into a large smile. "Master Tano," the girl replied happily. "Thank you again for your help yesterday."

"I'm glad it helped you," Ahsoka replied. For some reason, she had the feeling again that she knew her. She decided to try to find out more. "What's your name by the way?"

The Pantoran smiled and responded, "I'm Eleesha, Master Tano. Eleesha Altari."

Eleesha Altari? Ahsoka knew that she had heard that name before and she racked her brain. She again took in the girl in front of her and again, Ahsoka noted how much the girl looked like Senator Chuchi. All of a sudden, as she remembered a conversation from four months before, her mind clicked. "Are you Senator Chuchi's cousin?"

"Yes I am," Eleesha replied. She wondered how Master Tano knew that but she was happy nevertheless. "Do you know Riyo Master Tano?"

Ahsoka nodded her head excitedly. "Yes, she's one of my closest friends. She told me about finding you four months ago."

Eleesha was stunned; Ahsoka knew her cousin? All of a sudden, new happiness welled up in her heart. "I was delighted when I could contact my mother, aunt and cousin. The change in the code is really great."

"Yes it is," Ahsoka agreed. A thought went through her mind that maybe she could arrange for Eleesha and Riyo to meet. She smirked at that thought and decided to think about that at some point. For now, she decided to sate her curiosity. "What are you doing in Madame Jocasta's place?"

Eleesha kept her face straight. Ahsoka reasoned that it was slightly too straight. Eleesha sighed and replied, "I've been told that I will be assigned to the Educational Corps shortly. Apparently, they want me to stay around the temple teaching younglings about science. Because of this, the masters have allowed me off lightsaber training. So when the rest of my clan practice, I come here to learn the workings of the library."

Ahsoka frowned as that didn't sound particularly exciting to her; in fact it sounded boring. She couldn't understand how Eleesha seemed so happy about her prospects. Ahsoka knew that she wouldn't be in Eleesha's position. "You seem Ok about it."

"I am ok with it Master Tano; sort of. I have always been an academic rather than a duellist. If I hadn't have been gifted with the Force, then I probably would have been a scientist."

Ahsoka was puzzled. She sensed that Eleesha's words, whilst true, were not the whole story about her feelings on the matter. Ahsoka also started to wonder why she was so interested all of a sudden. After all, if Eleesha was ok with going into the Educational Corps, why should it bother her? Nevertheless, for some reason, Ahsoka was bothered by it. "Do you know when you're being assigned?"

Eleesha looked down. "Yeah, my fourteenth Life Day is in two days. I've overheard Master Ti saying that I will be called to the Reassignment Council then."

'At least the girl hasn't got much longer to wait and fret over it,' Ahoska thought to herself and then, she shrugged; it wasn't really her business. However, she was happy that she had made a new friend and she decided that if Eleesha was happy, then she would accept her view. "Oh. Well, at least you'll be doing something important."

Eleesha nodded. "Yeah, and I'll continue my academic studies as well." Eleesha reasoned that, being a knight, Ahsoka wouldn't really have the time to chat to her, so she decided to find out why Ahsoka was here so she could see if she could help her. "Now, can I help you with anything Master Tano?"

Eleesha's question prodded Ahsoka out of her thoughts. She quickly brought her mind back to the task at hand. "Actually Eleesha, yes you can. I've got a mission on Kiola coming up in a few days and I haven't been there before. I need to read up on it."

"I see," Eleesha replied. "What sort of things do you need?"

"Just some background about the planet and its culture. Oh, I need something on its politics and voting system also since I'm protecting its election. Politics are not my strong suit."

"I understand politics quite well," Eleesha replied. "My whole family does. Anyway, if you'd like, you can take a seat at a terminal and I could bring some datacards to you."

Ahsoka smiled. She could see that Eleesha was determined to help anyone in any way she could. It was such a shame that she was going to the Educational Corps, Ahsoka thought. "Thank you so much."

Eleesha nodded and Ahsoka walked to the nearest terminal and sat down. Whilst she waited, she thought a bit more about what she had discovered. Ahsoka found the fact that Eleesha understood politics strange considering that she also seemed to be interested in science but maybe that was just the way the girl's mind worked. Ahsoka did her best to clear her own mind; all of this thinking was giving her a headache. She closed her eyes and briefly meditated to clear herself. Once she sensed Eleesha coming back, she withdrew her mind from the Force and opened her eyes.

"Master Tano," Eleesha stated as she placed several datacards beside the terminal. "I've found several cards on Kiola's political and voting system and several on the general culture of the planet."

Ahsoka looked at the cards and smiled. "Thanks Eleesha. That's a real help."

"You're welcome Master. When you've finished with them, can you return them to the librarian's desk?"

"Sure, no problem."

"Goodbye Master Tano," Eleesha said as she walked away.

"Bye," Ahsoka called back. As she watched Eleesha walk away, Ahsoka couldn't help but notice that the feeling in the Force that she had been sensing had gotten stronger. Ahsoka had no idea what it was or why it was so similar to the feeling she had always had around Anakin. Now it was stronger, Ahsoka could tell that it almost seemed the reverse of the feeling she had had around Anakin. She shook her head as she struggled to compute its meaning. Eventually, she gave up, sighed and inserted the first datacard into the terminal; this was going to be a long day.

-0-0-0-0-0-

Obi-Wan Kenobi was resting in his quarters. For once, he was having a quiet day. His Padawan, Petro, was attending one of the advanced classes for young Padawans and Anakin was training with Katooni meaning that the Jedi Master had some time to himself. Normally, he liked to fill his spare time with meditation, but for a change, Obi-Wan decided to busy himself with doing nothing. In general, like most Jedi, he disliked wasted time but for once, he was making an exception. He was enjoying the peace and it was also giving him some time to think.

As it happened, there were several things on Obi-Wan's mind; the impending birth of Anakin's twins being one of them. He couldn't help but wonder what two more Skywalkers running around, was going to be like. Dear Force, he'd had an interesting enough time with just one and Petro was proving to be the same. All kinds of scenarios were playing out in his head and many of them were of an entertaining nature. Force help everyone if the twins turned out like their father, Obi-Wan reasoned. 'Hopefully, they'll have Padmé's temperament,' he thought to himself.

Nevertheless, Obi-Wan couldn't have been prouder of Anakin. He continued to be increasingly surprised and impressed over how good a master Anakin had proven to be and just how good of a husband Anakin had turned out to be for Padmé. Obi-Wan could no longer deny that those two seemed to have been Force picked for each other and he hoped that the relationship that he and Luminara were building could be half as good.

Another thought that was going through Obi-Wan's mind, however, was an observation that Master Yoda had told the council about after the Apprentice Tournament the day before. He had to wonder if Yoda was right about that as in his mind, it didn't fit. Obi-Wan had met Eleesha Altari but hadn't had much to do with the young Pantoran. He did know, however, that the girl didn't really have any real skill with a lightsaber and so, Ahsoka was unlikely to bother much with her, much less take her as a Padawan. Obi-Wan sighed as he wondered if the aged Grandmaster had finally lost his sanity. Obi-Wan thanked the Force that Anakin hadn't heard that particular Master Yoda classic; he would've been laughing till the next Republic Day.

Obi-Wan had to admit though; it would be nice to see Ahsoka take a Padawan. He knew, as all the council did, that she does take a Padawan at some point and it would a shame if the natural teaching ability of the young Togruta girl went to waste. He just believed, however, that she was likely to pick someone more capable than Eleesha. Although he wouldn't complain, of course, if he was wrong.

It was the situation on Mandalore that was really making him think. In particular, he was thinking about finding the sister of Duchess Satine, Bo-Katan Kryze. He knew that she was the best chance that they had of finding out and, more importantly, proving Darth Maul's true intentions. It was for that reason that over the last four months he had been secretly sending feelers out through various channels, politely asking about her location.

So far, he had received no real reply from any of his attempts. He always knew it would take some time of course, but it was now getting serious. If Ahsoka's guess about her future-self's warning was accurate them Darth Maul may have his ally by now and time could be running out. He paled at that thought and he wondered if there was anything else that he could do.

Obi-Wan's thoughts were interrupted by the holo projector in his room ringing. He frowned when he looked at the connection details; they were not from anyone within the temple and he had no idea who else would have his contact details. It was with some trepidation therefore, that he answered the call. His eyes widened with surprise; after searching for Bo-Katan for four months, he couldn't believe that she had contacted him.

"I've been told that you are trying to find me Kenobi."

It wasn't the most polite opening, Obi-Wan reasoned but he would take it; it wasn't as if he had a choice. "I try to find many people Bo-Katan, but yes, I have been searching for you."

"Want me to save your tail again like I did during our last meet?" Bo-Katan asked.

Obi-Wan shuddered. He had tried desperately to forget that. That was the mission in which Duchess Satine died at the hands of Maul and it was also the mission that he had to confront his feelings for her. At least he had been able to move on with Luminara. He smirked. "Whatever you want to call it," he added.

"Do you Jedi ever give a straight answer? Why are you looking for me Kenobi?"

Obi-Wan looked at the red haired woman and sighed. "Bo-Katan, We are growing increasingly worried about Maul. He is a danger not just to Mandalore, but to everyone."

"My fellow Nite Owls and I have been fighting his rule for nearly eight months and you finally tell me that? If I remember, I told you to tell the Republic when you left Mandalore," she snapped back, visibly angry.

"I did tell them. It's taken a while to get the Republic in Order. We've had our own problems but now, we are going to push the senate to help you," Obi-Wan replied. He knew that Bo-Katan wasn't completely trustworthy but he hoped that what he said would at least interest her.

"What do you want?"

"We need some indication of Maul's true intentions so we can petition the senate. We believe that he intends to attack the Republic. If we can prove that, we can launch a pre-emptive strike to end the threat and free Mandalore. I feel that you would know more about the happenings on Mandalore than we do."

Bo-Katan raised a smile. "A pre-emptive strike? That's not like your Jedi ideals."

"The Jedi Order has changed recently but it would be a Republic action. We would simply be involved because of Maul," Obi-Wan answered truthfully.

"I've heard about the change in your Jedi Code. Came too late for my sister didn't it?" Bo-Katan sighed. "Very well, but I want to meet you to discuss the mission. We don't know his full plans, but Maul is doing something."

Obi-Wan winced at Bo-Katan's rebuke. In truth, he didn't know that she had taken the death of her sister quite that badly especially since Bo-Katan opposed Satine's rule when she was in Death Watch. He knew what he was going to agree to would bring him some pain but he had no choice; duty to the Republic must come first. "My Padawan and I will come. When and where?"

"Tatooine, Mos Eisley Cantina, four days from now." She smirked. "Don't be late."

"Oh I'm looking forward to it, I assure you," Obi-Wan replied with some sarcasm. He realised that he must consider the possibility of a trap; he would have to think about that. He also wondered why, out of anywhere, she had chosen Tatooine. He wondered in the fact that it was a Hutt planet and therefore a perfect place to disappear had anything to do with it.

"Good and you'd better be right Kenobi. See you."

With that, the connection ended. "And you," he stated sarcastically to the defunct connection. Again, Obi-Wan's mind started to race. What would Bo-Katan ask of him when they met? He wasn't foolish enough to think she wouldn't ask for something. In addition, what did she mean when she said that Maul was doing something? This in itself was important and could make a big difference just by itself. Obi-Wan stood up; he would have to report this development to the council straight away; so much for his quiet day.

-0-0-0-0-0-

Ahsoka had lost track of exactly how long she had been sitting at the terminal in the Jedi archives reading the contents of datacards. Kiola may be a small planet but there was no doubt that it had some odd customs, especially its voting system. Ahsoka was the first to admit that she knew next to nothing about politics, but even she knew that a voting system that resembled a completion or tournament was unusual; Obi-Wan had been right about that. The idea that each candidate would go head to head and everyone on the planet had ten hours to vote on the holoNet and the winner would then face the next candidate seemed ludicrous. It sounded more like a sports contest than an election. However, Ahsoka was surprised to learn that the voting system had remained unchanged on Kiola for over a thousand years so, as strange as it sounded to her, it obviously worked.

One thing that instantly struck her was the fact that she was obviously going to be on Kiola for several days least. If each head to head took ten hours then the whole election was going to take a long time. One thing did worry her; the idea that the votes were all on the holoNet. She realised immediately that that would give the renegade group an obvious target; wipe out the local holoNet, wipe the election. Ahsoka groaned at that thought; one more thing that she needed to defend.

Eventually, Ahsoka eye's started to glaze over with all the text that she had been reading. Since she had been studying for hours, Ahsoka decided that it was enough for today. She gathered all the datacards together, making a note of those she had read, got up and walked back to the librarian's desk.

This time, Ahsoka could see that Madame Jocasta Nu had again taken her place behind her desk. Eleesha must've re-joined her clan, Ahsoka reasoned. As soon as Ahsoka approached the desk, Jocasta stated, "Hello Dear. I trust you have been successful in your studies?"

Ahsoka smiled. "Madame Librarian, it's lovely to see you. Yes, I have thank you. The girl, who was here before, Eleesha, found me some datacards on Kiola. I've come to return them for the night." Ahsoka handed the cards back.

"Yes, Eleesha is a lovely girl," Jocasta replied. "I watched you speaking to her earlier on."

"Really?" Ahsoka asked, "I didn't know you were here. It's a shame Eleesha is going to the Educational Corps; she wants to help everyone. At least she's ok with it."

"You should know that things are not always want they seem dear," Jocasta softly replied. In truth, she was one of the few people in the temple who knew Eleesha's true views on her situation. In addition, she had trained many Padawans in her time and had seen many more being taken. The fact that Ahsoka was taking such an interest in Eleesha spoke volumes to the elderly librarian.

Ahsoka frowned. "I'm not following you."

Jocasta gave a warm smile. "Young one, during my time I have come to understand that what someone says is not always what they mean. That is as true of Eleesha as anyone. You should remember that when you speak to her." In reality, Jocasta didn't want to tell Ahsoka the truth about Eleesha's views; it was important that Ahsoka discover that for herself, even though it would almost certainly mean that the Educational Corps would lose Eleesha.

Now Ahsoka was seriously confused. What was worse, she was confused about a topic that really, didn't affect her. She shook her head. Ahsoka knew the basics of what Jocasta had told her all too well. If her experiences had taught her anything, it was that people lie. However, Ahsoka hadn't detected any lies in Eleesha's words but she had sensed that it wasn't the whole story. She turned back to Jocasta. "Do you mean she's lying?"

Jocasta shook her head. "Dear, there are ways to hide your thoughts and meaning without lying." Jocasta held up the datacards that Ahsoka has just returned. "Now, do you want me to put these aside for you?"

Ahsoka smiled and nodded. "Yes please. Thank you Madame Librarian."

"Okay. Have a good day dear," Jocasta stated.

"Goodbye." Ahsoka turned around and headed out of the archives. As she was walking, the two conversations she had had that day kept playing in her head. She couldn't deny that she was confused and her confusion was growing the more she thought about it. Eleesha had told her that she was happy to be going into the Educational Corps but seemed, somehow, that it wasn't the whole story. Ahsoka also wondered why Madame Jocasta had taken the time to make that specific point to her.

As Ahsoka entered back into her quarters, she sat down in uneasy thought. She really shouldn't be bothered about all of this; she really shouldn't. However, she had to admit to herself that she liked Eleesha; the girl could be a good friend. Maybe that's why she was bothered; Ahsoka now considered Eleesha as a friend. Not only that, the girl was the cousin of one of her best friends, Senator Riyo Chuchi. Ahsoka smiled but, although she was confident that she had solved the mystery, her confusion remained. She shook her head and turned her attention to the holoNet projector in her room and some rest.

-0-0-0-0-0-

Jedi Master Anakin Skywalker was again in the training room. The time had come to try out his plan to help out his Padawan, Katooni, overcome the slight weakness that she had been left with in her arm. This had the added benefit as acting as a distraction. Padmé was getting seriously near to giving birth now and it was filling Anakin with more worry than he had ever had in his life. Any opportunity to take his mind off things, therefore, was welcome. Overnight, Padmé's doctors had advised her to admit herself into Galactic City Hospital's maternity ward to wait. Since she was carrying twins, the medics wanted to keep a closer eye on her during delivery and the period immediately before it.

Anakin wished more than anything that he could have gone with her but again, Padmé had told him to do what he needed to do. He was beginning to get the feeling that she didn't want him worrying around her. He could see her point if he was honest, although he would never admit it. He was even starting to drive himself mad and he could see that Katooni was laughing her head off.

In addition, apart from the day before when she had reported to the council, it had been quite a while since he had last seen Ahsoka. Although she was now a knight in her own right, and had been for over five months, she was still his little Snips and he worried over her like her father and he liked to keep some kind of tab of her condition and whereabouts, even though he knew that it wasn't really necessary. He wasn't exactly happy with the next mission that she had been assigned either, but he knew that he would be overruled even if he did voice his concerns. He hoped, therefore, that Ahsoka had taken Master Yoda's instruction to heart and was spending her time studying. He mentally slapped himself; Ahsoka would be fine. He hoped.

His current attention was fixed on Katooni however. As he had told her, she was trying some initial moves with her lightsaber and a secondary training blade. As Anakin expected, Katooni was struggling slightly but that was normal; no one wields two lightsabers straight away without problems. He had struggled on his first try. Even Ahsoka had struggled on her first attempt and now she was almost a specialist in dual wielding. As he watched, he gave Katooni some advice, "Take it slow Katooni. Don't expect to be able to control your second blade straight away. To start with, just move the two blades together."

"I'll try Master," Katooni responded. She knew that wielding two blades would be difficult, but she didn't know it would be this difficult. She had been trying to keep them under control for the last hour and so far, she was failing. It wasn't the fact that she now had a second blade that she was finding so difficult exactly; it was the fact that she had to control both of them with only one hand on each. Up until now, she preferred to use her lightsaber in two hands, as was taught to younglings and although she could use her saber in one, adding the second blade had sort of overloaded her control.

"Good, and don't worry Katooni. You won't cause any problems even if you do get it wrong."

Katooni nodded and assumed her practice stance. She ignited both blades and started to move both of them together. To her surprise, she found this task easier as she didn't have to think of the two blades separately. Immediately, her spirits started to lift as she realised that she was accomplishing something. It was a long way from dual wielding like Ahsoka, but it was a beginning and she was ecstatic. As the movements became a bit more natural, she decided to pick the pace up just a touch and after ten minutes, she was swishing both blades around at a reasonable pace.

"That's great Katooni." Anakin smiled. "You're getting it. Come, we'll call it for today."

Katooni stopped her exercise, nodded and smiled. She extinguished both blades and quickly walked back to Anakin. "Thanks Master that really helped."

"We'll work on using each blade separately next time and if she's available, I'll get Ahsoka here to help you."

Katooni was delighted with her master's words. She was looking forward to working with Ahsoka even though the next step did sound a tough scary. She was just about to reply when the two of them were interrupted by Obi-Wan Kenobi walking up to them. By the look on his face, Katooni could tell that Obi-Wan had some interesting news. She could sense that Anakin had picked up on it too.

Obi-Wan walked up to the pair and smiled. "Good afternoon Padawan Katooni." He then turned back to Anakin and his face gained a serious, but amused expression. He was looking forward to this. Just how panicked would Anakin get? "Anakin, we've been contacted by Galactic City. Padmé has gone into labour." He chose not to inform Anakin of his own development regarding Bo-Katan earlier in the day; he knew that Anakin wouldn't hear it anyway.

Anakin eye's instantly widened. "Wha….wha…what? Oh Force. I've got to get there….I hope she's ok. Please let nothing happen to her." Anakin started to shake with panic. He had been waiting for this moment for four months since Padmé had told him that she was pregnant. It was a few days later, after he had returned to Coruscant that she had told him that she was already five months along. Anakin had no idea what to do first. He wasn't the calmest man normally and this news just added to that.

Katooni started to giggle when she saw her master begin to lose it. 'Why don't you ever have a holo recorder on you when you need it?' she asked herself

Obi-Wan saw his former Padawan's reaction and immediately shook his head with amusement. "Anakin, calm down," he said with a calm voice.

"Padmé's in labour master. How can I calm down? I'm about to be a father." Anakin immediately ran off in the direction of the door.

Obi-Wan and Katooni looked at each other and immediately burst out in laughter. This was the funniest sight either of them had seen in a while. Full of amusement, they both ran after Anakin. Although Obi-Wan wouldn't say it out loud, he'd been waiting for this day himself. He knew what this would mean to both Anakin and the Order. "Anakin," Obi-Wan stated once they had caught him up. "Padmé will be fine. She is surrounded by medics; nothing will happen."

"I know Obi-Wan," Anakin answered as he continued running in the direction of the docking bay. "I just can't help worrying."

Obi-Wan ignored Katooni's giggles behind him and replied, "I know Anakin. It's a big day for you."

Anakin smiled at his former master as the three Jedi jumped into a speeder. It was nice to hear that from Obi-Wan. At that point, Anakin had calmed slightly and remembered something. "Oh, Master, can you contact Ahsoka? She is the twin's godmother."

As Anakin powered the speeder up, Obi-Wan replied, "Of course Anakin." As the speeder shot out of the docking bay, Obi-Wan started to regret traveling with Anakin at that moment. He didn't like flying at the best of times, but a being in a speeder piloted by a much panicked Anakin Skywalker was far from the best of times. Oh, he was going to regret this; he knew it. Trying his best not to think about it, he sent a message to Ahsoka.

-0-0-0-0-0-

Anakin ran into his wife's room in the maternity ward of Galactic City Hospital. He was shocked to see the room filled with a midwife and three teams of medics. For some reason, seeing all the medical personnel did reduce his worry slightly. For reasons of dignity, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Katooni had both stayed outside, but Anakin wished that Obi-Wan at least had come in with him. Anakin took one look at Padmé and he instantly saw and sensed the pain that she was in. He instantly paled and ran to his wife. "Padmé, Angel, are you ok?"

Padmé looked at her panicking husband and a slight look of anger appeared in her eyes. "Do I look like I'm Ok?" A contraction hit her and she cried out in pain and Anakin's heart sank; seeing his precious wife in this much pain all but killed him. Padmé turned back to him and screamed, "You're never touching me again, Anakin."

The medics all burst out laughing as they noticed the pale look on the Jedi Master's face. They all knew that no-one had spoken to him like that before. Struggling to control her laughter the midwife turned to Anakin and said, "Don't worry. Almost every woman that comes in here screams that to her husband. It doesn't matter what species she is, they all scream it. It's just her pain talking I assure you."

Although he sensed the truth in the midwife's words, he didn't really believe them. Would Padmé really stop him touching her again? Eventually, the logical part of his mind reasoned that the midwife was right and he let Padmé's words flow over his head. He was just glad at that moment that Obi-Wan, Katooni and Ahsoka didn't hear them. Slightly relieved he nodded in reply.

Padmé let out another scream as she was hit by a huge contraction. In response, the midwife urged her to push. Channelling all her energy, Padmé pushed along with the contraction. She could feel something move through her as some of the pain subsided. "I've got the head," the midwife stated. "One more Padmé and the baby will be out."

Breathless Padmé asked, "What about the second one?"

"Don't worry about that for now. It'll come a few minutes after the first."

Padmé nodded before she was slammed by another contraction. In response to the midwife's urging she pushed with all her might. She had never felt pain like it; even the pain killers that she had been given weren't toughing it. Eventually, she felt a release and the baby dropped out of her.

"It's a boy," the midwife stated with a smile as she cut the cord and handed the baby to one of the medic teams.

Padmé beamed with happiness in a moment of comfort. "Luke," she stated looking to her husband for his agreement. Anakin smiled and nodded. After a few seconds, the comforting sound of a new born crying could be heard throughout the room. Padmé glanced up and noticed tears appear in Anakin's eyes. They were both lost for any other words and instead, Anakin took advantage of the temporary rest bite to kiss Padmé.

Eventually, Padmé was hit by another round of contractions and she again screamed with pain. "The other one is coming," she exclaimed.

Anakin stood back with a look of fear on his face. Watching Padmé go through it the first time was bad enough and he had no idea if he could stand it for the second time. The midwife again took her place. "Push Padmé, push," she urged.

Padmé didn't know if she had the energy to go through it again, but now was not the time to give up. Summoning up all the energy that she could, she pushed. Grunting with the effort, she reached out and grabbed Anakin's flesh hand and squeezed. Anakin whimpered slightly in pain himself with the pressure that Padmé was applying to his hand.

Padmé lied back in relief as that contraction ended; she didn't know how much more of this she could take as she was exhausted, but she would not give up. She had never given up as Naboo's Queen, senator or as Chancellor and she would not give up now. She gathered herself as she felt another contraction hit her. She didn't need any urging this time and pushed with everything she had. She was relieved when she again felt something begin to move through her.

"The head is out again," the midwife confirmed. "You're doing brilliantly Padmé, just one more."

Padmé laid back and rested. She was keen to take any rest that she could, even if it was only for a few seconds. The rest bite was short lived however as the final contraction hit her. Padmé gave it everything that she had, squeezing her husband's hand as she did so. She knew that she couldn't keep this up any longer, but fortunately, she felt a final release as all the pain left her.

"It's out," the midwife began. "It's a girl," she confirmed as she again cut the cord and passed the new born to a second medical team.

Padmé broke out into tears of joy as the sound of a second infant crying could be heard. She glanced to Anakin, who was himself crying and she stated, "Leia." A third medical team checked Padmé over. There was no doubt that she was tired and it was clear that she would need to recover but apart from that, she was fine.

Anakin smiled down at her and leaned in and kissed her, "I love you Angel."

"I know Ani," Padmé replied. As she turned around, she broke out into a beaming smile as a newly cleaned and checked Luke Skywalker was placed in her arms. She looked down at her son and her heart melted. She couldn't hide the joy that filled her as her brown eyes glanced down at the baby.

Anakin couldn't control his tears as he looked in wonder at his son in his wife's arms. He had no idea that it would feel like this. He knew at that moment what his life, both as a Jedi Master and as a man, would be dedicated to from that moment on.

All of a sudden, the second team approached Anakin. The Jedi Master lost all control and sobbed uncontrollably with joy as Leia Skywalker was placed in his arms. Softness and love filled his blue eyes as he held his daughter. Feeling overcome, he sat on the bed next to his wife and the two met with a kiss. Finally they were a family.

-0-0-0-0-0-

An hour later, both infants and their mother had been fully cleared by the medics and the new family were resting in one of the wards post-delivery rooms. After tests, the medics had unsurprisingly confirmed that the Midi-Chlorian counts of both babies were almost as high as their father. Both new parents were full of joy and just enjoying the moment. A few minutes earlier, Anakin had sent news out to Obi-Wan and Katooni and had received news that Ahsoka had made it to the hospital. It was no surprise therefore when the family were interrupted by a polite knock on the door.

Anakin could instantly sense who it was. "Come in Master."

The door opened and Obi-Wan Kenobi walked in rapidly followed by a very expectant Katooni and a very nervous Ahsoka. Obi-Wan took a glimpse at the two new-borns who were now gurgling and waving around in cots and smiled. He had to admit, they were wonderful. He couldn't believe the joy that he was sensing both in Padmé and Anakin. He knew that his former Padawan had never been happier. "Congratulations. They are wonderful Anakin." He looked at Padmé, "It is a relief to see you well Chancellor."

Padmé smiled. "Please, just call me Padmé for now. I'm too happy to be bothered with the Chancellorship right now."

Obi-Wan smiled and replied, "As you wish Padmé."

Katooni walked at beamed as she looked at her master's children. She couldn't help a couple of tears as she said, "They're lovely Master."

Padmé and Anakin both smiled. "Thank you Katooni," Anakin replied as he briefly hugged his Padawan.

Ahsoka moved alongside Obi-Wan, took one look at the two babies and she immediately melted. "Awwwwwww. They're adorable Master," she exclaimed as her face gained a beaming smile.

Anakin turned to Ahsoka and he briefly pulled his former Padawan into an embrace. "Good to see you Snips. Meet your godson Luke and your goddaughter Leia."

Ahsoka felt a wave of happiness sweep through her. She wondered if she would be chasing after these two for the rest of her life. There was a good possibility and she didn't mind at all. "Hello Luke. Hello Leia," she stated happily."

Padmé smiled and asked, "Do you want to hold one Ahsoka? You are their godmother after all."

Ahsoka's eyes widened. With some enthusiasm she asked in reply, "Can I?"

"Of course you can Snips," Anakin said in reply. He picked Leia up out of her cot and placed her in his former Padawan's arms.

Ahsoka's blue eyes shined with delight and wonder as she looked at the baby in her arms. Supporting the infant in her right arm, she tickled Leia with the fingers of her left. As Leia gurgled, Ahsoka giggled with glee. She had always loved younglings but for some reason, the sight of Luke and Leia had just completely melted her heart. For some reason, Ahsoka felt that there was something about this situation that rung true to her, almost as if the Force was telling her that she would be in this room, in this situation again, but it wouldn't be Padmé but her that was the focus. Ahsoka had no clue what to make of it.

Padmé looked at the beaming Togruta and let out a slight laugh. She could see that Ahsoka and children just fit together. She could tell the Ahsoka would make a wonderful mother at some point and she decided to have a bit of fun. "That suits you Ahsoka." She then smirked. "You never know, with how well you and Lux are going together, you might be in the maternity ward next."

As everyone in the room burst out laughing, Ahsoka looked at Padmé and her lekku darkened immediately. "I…I don't think so Padmé. Lux and I aren't ready for that."

Anakin smirked and decided to join in. "Padmé and I weren't either Snips, but look." He gestured to Luke in his cot and Leia in Ahsoka's arms.

Ahsoka's lekku darkened even more as Katooni piped up; she just couldn't resist. "You would make a good mother, Master Tano."

Ahsoka gave up and just laughed with everyone else. If she was honest however, the thought of being a mother did appeal to her, especially after holding Leia. "Whatever you say Katooni," she replied with a sigh.

Obi-Wan couldn't help but chuckle. He turned to Padmé and Anakin and stated, "The council have given you a couple of weeks Anakin. What are you two going to do?"

Anakin and Padmé looked at each other before Anakin replied, "We've talked about that Obi-Wan. Padmé and I have decided to spend the next two weeks on Naboo so we can show the babies to Padmé's family. We've decided to take Katooni with us if you're ok with that."

Katooni instantly smiled, "Thank you master. I'd love to come…." She looked up at Obi-Wan, "….if I can."

Obi-Wan nodded. "I don't think there's any problem with that Anakin. I don't think the council will mind you taking Katooni; she is your Padawan and a break might help her after her injuries."

"Thanks Obi-Wan."

Padmé nodded in agreement then added. "Ahsoka, we would ask you to come, but we know you have a mission shortly. You are welcome to come to Naboo after your mission if you want. You can bring Lux as well."

"Thank you Padmé. Once the mission is over, I'll take you up on that, if the council let me. I'll see if Lux is free also."

"That's settled then Snips," Anakin stated.

Obi-Wan's smile faded as he looked at the time, "Ahsoka, Katooni, I think we need to be getting back to the temple. Padmé needs her rest."

Reluctantly, Ahsoka handed Leia back to Anakin and nodded, as did Katooni. "Ok," both girls replied with a sigh

"I'll leave the speeder with you Anakin," Obi-Wan began. "I'll travel back with Ahsoka."

Anakin nodded. "Bye Master, See you Snips and I'll pick you up when Padmé has been released Katooni."

Everyone waved their goodbyes as Obi-Wan, Katooni and Ahsoka made their way back to the speeder that Ahsoka had come in. Ahsoka knew it had been a big day and for her, it had been a day filled with puzzles. She was still trying to completely understand the strange feeling she was getting around Eleesha Altari and now, she was getting another feeling in the Force relating to the maternity ward. She really needed to meditate; if she was lucky, her future-self would come again to clear some things up, but she wouldn't hold her breath.

Well, that's, chapter 37. As I said, this was the second chapter of the "Padawan Mini Arc." At the moment, Ahsoka is intrigued by Eleesha but she isn't yet thinking of Eleesha as a Padawan. There will be an event in the next chapter which will accomplish that. Also the second feeling Ahsoka had during this chapter; the one in the maternity ward is a subtle hint about Ahsoka's condition. All I'll confirm is: Yes, what Ahsoka and Lux did in that lake has had a lasting effect but at the moment, it's too early for it to show on Ahsoka. Don't worry, it will very soon.

One other thing I must say. The idea of Anakin and Padmé going to Naboo and taking Katooni with them in this chapter was inspired by an idea that was written in reviews. Thank you to whomever it was that gave me that idea.

I found both Bo-Katan and Jocasta Nu awkward to write in this chapter. I wasn't certain exactly what attitude Bo-Katan would have towards Obi-Wan and so I hope I handled it right but I apologise if I haven't. Jocasta was awkward also as we know so little of her character.

Anyway, next chapter; Ahsoka does some more preparations for her mission but the Force instructs her to listen to something. What bearing does it have on her confusion? Anakin, Padmé and Katooni head to Naboo and Ahsoka makes a decision regarding Eleesha Altari.