29 ABY
"Dr. Tarkin."
It was more of a greeting than a question. Kira saw her vet tech's eyes widening. She stood with her back still to whomever was trying to speak to her over the music, continuing to work.
"This is a sterile operating room."
"Unfortunately we didn't wipe our feet before coming in. Doctor, you're coming with us now." A man lightly grabbed her arm- he was tall and strong with reddish hair. It wouldn't have surprised Kira if he had tried to pass himself off as a Tarkin.
Kira raised her other arm to eye level, still holding onto the scalpel. She looked at the technician. "Can you finish this on your own, or should you call Dr. Keng?"
"I. I can do it. I'll call her once you're gone. Just in case something goes wrong. But I've got this." The woman gushed, her eyes wide.
"Doctor, we are going now." The man gave a gentle tug. "Thank you."
Kira yanked her arm back. "I can walk myself, thank you."
As she surveyed the others she saw the other two men were also tall. She considered wryly that the team her father had tried to insist on likely could have stopped them. No matter. She put down the scalpel. "Lead the way." She frowned, glancing around. "And I hope you've packed dairy free food for wherever we are traveling."
They led her into a dark blue truck. She strapped herself in, and removed her gloves and mask, refocused on the man who moved to sit across from her—the same man who had been leading their conversation in her practice. "That kitten was being spayed. Does the First Order have kittens you need spayed?"
She felt a jolt as her comm deactivated in her pocket.
"Sorry for that, Doctor." The man who had grabbed her arm said slowly. "I'm Thars Divone. I'm with the Alliance to Restore the Empire. We are glad to have you onboard to join the First Order."
"I'm sorry, are you a trooper? I don't even talk to Armitage Hux, and you think I'm going to talk to you?"
"I'm a civilian, doctor. My family is influential in the First Order and so I was given the chance to meet you."
"I've never heard of you. A comm to call my husband, please."
"I'm afraid that won't be possible until we've made the jump to lightspeed. Do you enjoy your surgery?"
"We are not having a friendly conversation about my job."
"Far better than a hostile one." He smiled warmly. "Soon we'll be on board the freighter taking us off-planet. Say goodbye to Corellia for now."
"Corellia is my home. You can't even say my real surname."
"Doctor Tarkin-Pryscott. No reason to be on the wrong foot. You are appreciated as your whole self."
"That's not my name anymore," Kira said.
"Yes, doctor." He glanced through the single window. "We are almost onboard the ship."
"I rely on medication you did not let me retrieve from my home."
"It will be fabricated for you as required."
"I think Armitage would agree that's the right way for you to be spending your time at the moment."
Thars blinked. "I. Am not sure how to respond to that. I'm happy to leave you alone if that's what you'd like. You'll be very comfortable on the starship."
"Where are my daughters," Kira asked
"Doctor-" they jolted slightly as they drove up a ramp.
"We're onboard the Taskmaster, Sir." One of the armed men spoke into a comm.
"Your memory betrays you, doctor." Thars stood, opening the door for her and allowing her out into the midsized, newly refitted pleasure yacht. "Perhaps not what you're used to but comfortable enough for now I hope you agree."
Her palms itched. Her face had lost all color. "Where are my younglings," Kira asked.
"They've joined us on a pair of separate vessels."
Her eyes widened. "Stay away from my younglings, or I'll kill you myself."
"We'll be taking off shortly, Doctor. It's a smooth ride, but if you feel safer with a buckle, the seats along the wall have them."
Her hand was itching for the comm by the time she was able to call. "Andrej?" She heard more fear in her voice when her husband answered the phone. She tried to contain it.
"Kira—where are you? What's going on? Just one second, I'm looping your dad in. Keep talking." Andrej tried to keep calm but she could hear the emotion rising in his voice.
"Andrej, where are the girls," Kira asked.
"Andrej," her father asked, joining the line.
"I have Kira on the line."
"Where are the girls," Kira asked.
"They're gone. The school was attacked." Andrej shuddered. "They're not with you?"
"They said they had them. I didn't want to believe it." She turned to her escort. "Can I speak to my younglings?"
Thars nodded. "Give us a few minutes. When we drop out of hyperspace we'll put the call through."
"They're my younglings, I need to talk to them now."
He grunted. "One moment." He stepped out of the room, joining the other first order naval officers.
"What's going on?" Dahn asked seriously. "Kira, have they hurt you?"
"No," Kira said. "They haven't. They said they're taking us to the Finalizer."
"To a ship?" Dahn was grim. It would be that much harder to track them down. "All right. Kira, listen to me. Survive. I know this will be hellish, but survive for the girls."
"Obviously," Kira said. "Of c-course."
"Do whatever they say," her father said. "Don't make them angry."
"They have my younglings."
"We will get you home. Repeat it. Don't forget it. "
"I love you, Kira. Tell the younglings I love them too." Andrej bit his lip, his face tight despite trying to stay calm for her benefit.
"We can talk to them in a second," Kira said. "Andrej, the First Order has been trying to get a hold of me for forever."
"I know, I— are. Do you know how you're going to get medical treatments?" He swallowed, thanking the stars that he remembered not to mention the pregnancy. For whatever reason his wife was barely showing-a blessing in these circumstances.
"When you get to their ship, talk to the commander or the captain or whatever admiral is there. Tell them to call me." Dahn shifted in the Frame of the holo call, clearing working on something to help. "This cannot stand."
"Don't give them money, dad."
"Let me worry about that, honey."
"Don't," Kira said. "Figure something else out."
He nodded. He wouldn't say it out loud but their experience with Garoche those years ago made him suspicious of any deal that was so simple as monetary.
"Ma'am." Thars came back into the room. "I have your eldest on the line."
"Hook her in," Kira said.
The call soon joined the other three, but Maree was voice-only. "Mom? Mom! What's going on?"
"Maree, are you okay? Where are you? Where is your sister?"
"She's here. They said only I could talk to you right now, but—"
"Mom! I'm here! Don't tell them anything," Shanna called.
"Stay. Maree. Keep her. Safe."
"Sit down, Kira," Andrej said, urgently.
Kira stumbled back and fell onto the floor. She heard her husband and father talking to the girls and the first order crew but the words seemed distant as she fell asleep.
When she woke up, she was in a hoverchair, which she found horrifyingly ironic. Her doctors had always said it would be safest, just as her mother had been forced into a hoverchair for her pregnancies.
"Ma'am, you're awake." The medic sighed in relief. "You had a narcoleptic episode."
"M-my daughters," Kira whispered. "I have to talk to them."
The medic shook his head. "Very soon. I need to discuss two things with you. Firstly, did you know you were pregnant?"
Kira frowned, shaking her head. "You're mistaken."
The medic turned his screen to show the ultrasound with the baby clearly outlined inside. "You are. The other thing is that you did hit your head. Do you prefer a bacta patch or oral medication to prevent potential brain swelling?"
"I'm too old to be pregnant," Kira said. "And I would like a bacta patch."
He nodded, walking beside her. "I won't argue with you, that's a live image from the scan." He nodded again to the screen. "I am going to apply the patch now. It will wash off in the shower, so if you need another just let us know." He opened the sealed bacta-infused fabric and gave one more indication before gently pressing it against the side of her head.
Kira frowned, her knuckles turning white. "Please, you can't tell anyone."
"I have to note it or I'll be punished when someone else finds it. But I'll mark it private and I won't gossip. That's all I can do."
"You can't tell them," Kira repeated. "Please."
"You know where you are. The reasons you don't want us to know are the same reasons that I have to report it."
"I need to speak to my younglings."
"You'll see them soon," the medic said.
"Why have we been taken prisoner?"
"You're not prisoners. Soon, you'll be able to speak with the General. And Lord Vandron is very excited to see you."
"Vandron? He's still alive?"
"By the truth of the Order he has survived all this time, yes. He's just one of the legacy leaders." The medic nodded. "He is thrilled that you will be our guest."
Kira frowned, trying to brace her hands on her knees. "I would like to speak with him, please."
"All in a short while," the medic assured her.
"You seem to know why my daughters and I are here. What does the First Order want with us?"
"I don't know most of the details, I don't want to seem boastful." The medic shifted on his feet. "But I believe the reason is primarily for propaganda purposes, given that general Hux and High Culture Minister Vandron are leading the effort, ma'am."
"And if we don't cooperate?"
"I suppose you'll likely be with us for longer," he said. "Of course, everyone would be very happy if you decided to stay."
"Never," Kira said.
"I don't know anything about the details. Are you hurting anywhere else? And are you taking any vitamins?"
"Of course," Kira snapped. "I'm a vet and my husband is a brain surgeon."
"I assumed so. I took the liberty of pulling a multivitamin suitable for pregnancy from the ship's commissary."
"I need to speak to my younglings."
"Soon," the medic said. He offered nothing helpful through her other protests. She could tell from his body language and that of the others when they were approaching the ship.
The landing bay was strangely decorated, unlike the mandalorian or sleek style that the republic or even old empire ships had featured. Instead there were propaganda posters and an entirely impractical plus carpet that lead just past the pad into the rest of the ship. Kira recognized the decor style of Crueya Vandron long before she saw him, almost hidden behind a series of enormous 3D holo projections. The stormtroopers led her to an extremely nice suite with a full kitchen, living, sitting, and dining area, and two bedrooms. Without any decision of her own, the chair moved to the couch, and a stormtrooper commander approached with a remote. Kira held up a hand.
"I can transfer myself," she said, and she transferred herself to the couch before they could touch her. She didn't know what or whom she was waiting for, but she had a bad feeling about this.
6 BBY
When they left their checkup, the medical corridor of the Senate building was quiet, with large trees sprouting from alongside the paths.
Dahn almost jumped when Maia took his hand. His heart raced in his chest, more than when they'd fallen back into bed together. This was no performance, she genuinely wanted to take his hand.
He nodded to an orderly who passed with a cart, and when the shot rang out and his wife let go, barreling to the floor, he still didn't register anything, not until the stormtroopers yanked him back behind the line and everyone else started to shoot.
He heard someone yelling and another thud as a human man hit the floor In a spatter of burnt flesh. Dahn looked around desperately, unable to see Maia through the body of the security officer on top of him.
Suddenly, there was more yelling.
"Where's my wife," Dahn asked.
"Stay down, sir!" Coylson yelled, his back to Dahn as he pressed down on something out of view. "Tell the OR to prep for immediate surgery, open pneumothorax, massive burns."
"Who," Dahn asked. "Where is my wife?"
"Negative," Sandierson informed Coylsen. "Operating for stat c-section. Captain and Colonel will release the patient now."
Rourke shook his head, "Negative. we have to confirm the corridor is secure."
"Let go of her immediately, Captain," Sandierson said. "Secure the area."
"Is he touching my wife," Dahn asked.
"Captain, we need to access her, now." Sandierson repeated. "Secure the area." He grunted and pointed at two security officers. "Remove him, now."
"Remove the Captain from the protectee," Coylsen confirmed.
"Is he kriffing touching my wife," Dahn bellowed.
Rourke stood when he heard both of his coworkers calling for his removal. He pulled his blaster, looking around at the two ends of the corridor before going to Dahn. "It wouldn't be the first time." He hissed, jogging on to secure the area.
Dahn blinked, and then narrowed his eyes. "Colonel, I need to be there for my wife."
Coylson looked over, scanning the hallway visually once more before he replied. "sir, I just need you to stay outside the medics, they are going into emergency surgery right here."
Dahn wanted to hold her and kiss her and touch her hair, but he followed directions, looking quickly among the trio of doctors. Sandierson had moved now, so Dahn turned to him.
"Is she? And my daughter?"
"She is as stable as we can get her. Moving would risk her health further." Sandierson held in a wince as he saw terror growing in Dahn's face.
Maia began to convulse on the floor.
"Can I help somehow," Dahn asked, struggling to not jump forward. "My daughter—is she okay?"
"Can't you follow directions," Rourke snapped, grabbing Dahn's shoulder.
Dahn punched him squarely on the face and then got on top of the other man, giving no opportunity for him to strike back.
Rourke struggled to even put his hands up to defend, so shocked that his defensive trained didn't have a moment to kick in. When he finally began to try to push Dahn off, two security officers had already pulled the Senator up.
"You're fired," Dahn said. "If you ever come near my family again, I will kriffing kill you."
"Hey, kriff you!" Rourke stood, his face flushed from anger and blood pooling to his many aching contusions. Another pair of security officers grabbed his shoulders, holding him in place as the guards holding Dahn moved the Senator back towards his wife seperate from the colonel.
"Is that—" Dahn drew a breath in as they cut the sack. "Can I hold her?"
"In just one moment." The doctor holding the premature newborn quickly checked over her. She was small, but her arms were squirming already. When he cleared her mouth a loud scream came out. "Open your shirt." The doctor instructed. "We need to keep her warm. Follow us to the NICU. We'll do the rest of our testing there."
Dahn fumbled to unbutton his shirt. The doctor pressed his daughter into his chest, and he held onto her, yet more blood dying the white. "My. Wife," Dahn asked. He heard Rourke continuing to scream, but his focus was totally elsewhere now.
"She is struggling. She needs all of our attention." The doctor said quickly. "Follow me, hold her tight."
The baby girl whined but began breathing more steadily against him.
"She is so light," Dahn said. She must have weighed less than half of a kilo. He was so afraid to drop her as he hustled behind the doctor.
"She's breathing well," the doctor commented. "Surprisingly well. We need to get her to a warm room." He turned a corner, opening a door to the baby's wing of the medical center.
"She's only twenty-two weeks. How could she be breathing so well?"
The doctor shook his head. "Small favors. We did give the steroid to help develop the lungs because of how early your son came. But when I say she is breathing well, I just mean We can. Please hand him to the nurse." Four medical staff and a droid surrounded them, and the nurses began to check the little baby's vitals in more detail.
Dahn wrung his hands, turning back to the OB. "My wife."
"I'm not sure what her status is, sir. She was being treated when we left."
"Is she dead?"
"You didn't give her any medication before cutting."
"She was unconscious. Sir, It's very unlikely she will recover, but we are going to give her the best possible—" Dahn's comm rang out With his father in law's tone.
"Hi," Dahn answered, quietly.
"Dahn, I'm sorry you had to see that." Wilhuff was his typical stoic self, but Dahn had known him long enough to know that he was on the verge of a breakdown. "I just got the confirmation. They're attempting advanced resuscitation but Maia has passed away. My. My daughter." His voice broke momentarily. "We have to be there. For you. For the younglings for. For the baby. How is she?"
"The doctor asked me to carry her so she would stay warm. I had to leave Maia."
"You did your duty as a father. I hope you never have to bury your youngling. It's. Far more difficult than anything else I've had to do." Wilhuff paused for a moment. "Is she healthy? She cried right away?"
"Yes. She's. They put her on a CPAP, I think," Dahn said.
"Good. Good. They said that. That you would need to sign off on letting me get a live biometric reading to my comm. can you do that?"
"Of course. I don't know where."
A medical aide opened a door and approached Dahn. "Sir, I. Sir—" he froze when he saw Tarkin's holo. "Senator Pryscott, I need to sync your comm for you to get biometric updates."
"Thank you. Will I be able to add grandparents myself?"
"Yes from inside the program." The medical aide nodded, indicating the "sharing" section. "If you have any technical questions i will answer the help line," the aide indicated the appropriate control for that feature.
"When can we speak with a neonatologist," Tarkin asked.
"The neonatologist is en route, under five minutes." One of the nurses informed them. "She's on CPAP and oxygen, we're moving her into the heated Bacta bath now." Dahn watched as his baby was gently placed in the transparent blue liquid, surrounded by stretchy see-through material that would simulate the womb she had been ripped from.
"When can I hold her again," Dahn asked.
"You'll be able to put your hands in the chamber, uh but the neonatologist will know when you can hold her again. I think soon." The aide was trembling with nerves.
"Thank you," Tarkin said. "Will she be transferred to the hospital?"
"I'm so sorry sir, I don't know about that. I can get that information for you."
"We'll speak to the neonatologists. Thank you," Tarkin said. "Dahn. I've called your parents. They're on their way."
"Thank you - I really appreciate it." Dahn murmured, still not sure how to process everything that had transpired.
"Dahn, you can call me. Dad. Or Wilhuff. Honestly."
Dahn turned to look at him. "Thank you." He crinkled his face. "What do I tell Kira and Garoche?"
"Tell them that—." Wilhuff shook his head. "Let us talk together and make a plan."
"Will you let me know when you and. Thalassa are coming?"
"I've already made arrangements. She will be there tomorrow afternoon and I will arrive after dark tonight."
"And. My other younglings. If they don't see me and. Their mother. They'll be so confused."
"I know. Maia was so confused when. When my Garoche died."
"Tell me what to do."
"I wish I knew. Listen. Go to your younglings. I'll be there soon."
"And leave her here?"
"Excuse me, Senator," a stormtrooper Captain said. "Your arm."
Dahn had not even felt the break, his focus having been completely elsewhere.
"Oh—" Dahn frowned trying to move the limb. "I can't leave her."
"What happened," his father-in-law asked.
"Nothing."
"His arm is broken, sir," the stormtrooper said.
"Dahn. Get treated. That's first. You can't be effective with a broken arm."
"I'm not leaving my daughter."
"Call for a doctor to treat his arm at the bedside," Tarkin instructed.
A doctor who looked like she had been pulled out of a deep sleep was downing a beverage as she ran down the hallway, passing Dahn as she fucked into the scrubbing-in room.
"What's wrong," Dahn asked. "It's not my daughter, is it?"
"No, I wasn't on call- they had to get me! I've been receiving updates, the baby is stable."
"What is your name, Doctor," Tarkin asked.
"I'm going to splint your arm." Another doctor commented to Dahn as the neonatologist introduced herself.
The next hour seemed like a blur, but finally Dahn was standing next to the incubation tank, as the tiny baby floated inside. He knew he had to get back to the younglings before long.
His father in law had stayed on the whole time, speaking with doctors in the background. He pushed a hand in, trying to hold one of hers.
He didn't know what he expected but when she instinctively grabbed it, Dahn couldn't help but begin to cry.
Wilhuff paused with the doctors, watching his son-in-law. "Dahn. Do you know what you want to name her?"
"We have the name lists,". Dahn said. "We had. Names chosen. It would be wrong to c-change it."
"Maia has left the world. But she left us with this beautiful child. Would you ever consider naming her in Maia's memory?"
Dahn covered his eyes, heaving. "What do I tell my other younglings?"
"There is no right answer. Be honest, but gentle. That's all I can say
"Kira is only five. Maia was pregnant. What kind of monster shoots a pregnant woman?"
"The Rebellion is growing. They are entirely amoral, Dahn. It's become clear staying on Imperial Center isn't safe. Not for you or the younglings. I should have listened to." Tarkin paused as someone spoke to him off screen. "My ship is ready. I'll see you tomorrow. Call if you need me."
"I'll see you soon," Dahn said, more as a normal response than anything thoughtful. It just seemed right to say.
He turned to greet Doctor Sandierson with a small nod when the other man approached.
"Senator," the doctor greeted. "Rourke has been removed. Colonel Coylsen and I are sharing responsibilities as of now. I am so sorry."
"Did she suffer?" Dahn asked, searching the doctor's face.
"Normally when a doctor says they died instantly it's just to comfort. But in your wife's case she wouldn't have felt anything. She sadly went. Too quickly for us to do much of anything. I'm so sorry, sir."
"Do we know how this happened?"
"We're still investigating how the shooter got into the building. Everyone is on lockdown."
"The Medical Wing. Did. He was dressed as an orderly." Dahn sighed. "How can we not know?"
"We are investigating," the doctor repeated. "You'll be asked if you want us to remain on your details."
"I have to think. I was. Impressed by how quickly you acted, but the memories may be difficult."
"You don't have to explain what you ultimately decide. The most important thing is that you're comfortable with your protection."
"Yes. Yes. Comfortable." Dahn rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm sorry. I don't know what to think at all."
"Don't worry about it right now. Sandierson exhaled hard, looking at the preemie. "I'm glad she's all right."
"Thank you. I'm sure that's at least partially thanks to you."
"I can't take credit for anything good right now."
"No. You. It's more important than ever. If my father-in-law wants someone to punish, I'll speak up in your defense. And Coylson's"
"We do appreciate that, sir, given the circumstances."
"Will I be able to come back to see her if I leave," Dahn asked.
"Of course, sir. And I will send you an additional update when they move her.
"Where are we taking her?"
"I'll send you that message privately, sir."
"When can I see Maia?"
"She is at the morgue. I'm sure they can take you soon, but i don't know if they are ready yet."
"I have to see her. I. I have to hug her."
"Yes, sir." Sandierson nodded. "I'll reach out and encourage them to have her ready."
"I just want to see her."
"They'll clean her up."
"They don't have to do that, I already have—I'm already wearing her blood."
"I know, sir. But they'll clean her up all the same."
"The. Shot wound," Dahn asked. "Are they filling it?"
"I don't know, sir. They will be able to answer any questions you have."
"How long until they're ready?"
"I don't know, sir. But I assume it's a top priority for them. I can call their office for you, if you'd like."
"Can you? Please?"
"Of course, sir." Sandierson made the call.
And proceeded to lead Dahn through the morgue. The team around them now was even bigger, and it was odd, seeing no one but security personnel moving through the building.
There was a being covered with a clean white sheet on the morgue table. He knew it was his wife, but that didn't change the shock he felt when the sheet came off and he saw her.
"Maia," he whispered.
She still looked badly burnt, but strangely peaceful as though she was recovering from the attack rather than dead. "She died almost instantly, Senator. I'm so sorry there was nothing they could do." A droid said calm and slow.
Dahn stroked her hair and then leaned over, carefully hugging her. "I'm sorry," he whispered.
She shifted slightly as he touched her, just sliding on the table. His comm rang but he couldn't hear it.
"Sir, would you like a moment alone?" The droid asked softly.
Dahn nodded. He couldn't find any words other than apologies for his wife.
The droid retreated, leaving him for a few minutes. When they returned, an II officer followed. "Mr. Pryscott, could we debrief quickly?"
It took Dahn a moment. He felt like he could hardly see what was around him. "How come this was allowed to happen?"
"That's what I'm trying to understand, Senator." The agent nodded. "I'm part of a Special Task Force. We'll get to the bottom of it."
"It was someone in intelligence," Dahn accused.
"Sir, if that's true we'll find out. Could you come with me?"
"Will I be able to come back and see her?"
"Of course." The agent said quickly, "I wouldn't dream of stopping you."
"She will remain here, waiting for you to visit again," the droid said.
Dahn gave Maia another hug, tighter this time, and kissed her cheek before following the agent. It felt like nothing would ever be okay again, but they had to try.
29 ABY
Kira was already glowering on the couch when the door opened and she saw someone she had not expected to see. She jumped to her feet, moving so that the couch was between the two of them. "Rourke."
He smiled down at her from his standing position. "Kira! It's been forever. What a pleasure to see you again." She couldn't help but notice the stun blaster at his side.
"What are you doing here," she asked.
"I'm the head of your security detail. It's a position I should have been holding for a while."
"No, really," Kira said. "Why are you here?"
He closed the door. "I've heard you won't speak with the generals."
"Not until I see my younglings," Kira said.
Rourke shook his head with a small smile. "I'm so impressed with the woman you'd become. You were always so good at science, you've always loved taking care of animals. Being a veterinarian suits you. If you must have any job. As for your younglings. I want you to see them too. But you need to understand that things here will operate as needed for security and the needs of the First Order."
"How could speaking with my children possibly compromise my so-called security?"
"It's not so simple." Rourke took a step to the side and gestured around the room. "As our guest, we recognize you may represent a risk to our security if you don't cooperate. And my job is to keep us safe and to keep you safe, which is why it's important for you to comply with all directives."
"No one seemed terribly angry that I wanted to speak with my younglings first."
"That was at the discretion of the commanders of those vessels. I am sure they wanted you to understand the full scope of this situation. Kira, I'm on your side here. I will do what I can to make you more comfortable here as long as you cooperate with our mandate. Now. Why don't you get dressed for your meeting with the generals?"
"I will speak with General Hux once I am convinced my younglings are safe," Kira said.
"You saw them before."
"No," Kira said. "I spoke to them. And then I had an episode."
"I don't know what more I could do to convince you they are okay. No one here wishes you or the girls I'll will. The Tarkin name still holds sway in the organization."
"My last name is Alvarez," Kira said.
"I don't know if I'll ever understand why you took that boy's name."
"You don't have to understand," she said.
"I doubt your mother would have let that happen."
"We would know for sure if you hadn't let her get killed," Kira said.
"You look just like her, you know."
"My eyes are green," Kira said.
"Otherwise, you're a clone. It's very sad she never reached your age."
"Whose fault is that?"
"Your father's, actually."
"I would say it was your responsibility, actually," Kira said. "Besides any inane conspiracy theories."
"I never hated your father," he said. "But I hate that he made you participate in his treason at such a young age."
"Anyone can watch a holodoc." She looked at his uniform. "And you're still a captain. After forty years."
"Forty years interrupted," he allowed.
"They do say everyone rises to their level of incompetence. They must either really want me dead or not think I'm at great risk."
"It is my place to protect you. To protect you from your mother's fate."
"I've only ever been at risk from the people here," Kira said.
"Now, that's not true." He went into the kitchen, holding her gaze as he poured and brought her some water.
"I'm fine," she said, taking another step back from him.
"You have to hydrate after an episode," he said.
"I will once you leave."
"I'll be here until we go to see the generals. There are outfits in your size in your sleeping area."
"That's creepy," Kira said.
"Vandron remembers your mother's dimensions. And his team estimated based on your limited Holonet appearances."
"I'm not speaking to the generals until I speak to my younglings. That's ultimately what matters here."
"Actually, what matters here is that you're compliant if you want to see your daughters at all. I have been given an extremely wide mandate to ensure your cooperation."
Suddenly, he sounded pompous and controlling in a way that really feared her.
"Now are you going to get dressed, or are we going to have a problem."
"I am dressed," she said.
"Change into one of the new outfits in the closet. You are not cooperating."
"Fine," she said. "Stay here."
"I'll be coming with you. You have demonstrated to me that you need to learn to follow my directives."
"No," she said.
"I'm sure your father told you to do as we said. He's stupid, but he's not stupid."
"He didn't mean to let you watch me change."
"If you're sure about that, I can make sure you don't see your younglings for a very long time."
"You can't do that."
"Alternatively, you can demonstrate to me that you are ready to comply. Will you follow me to your sleeping quarters or not?"
She folded her arms, shaking. "Will you turn around?"
"How nicely will you ask? Come. Now."
She shivered, following in spite of herself.
"There are beautiful dresses here for you," he said. "But before you get into one, I need you to understand the dynamic between you and me."
"What's that," she whispered.
He cocked his head at her, looking her up and down.
"No," she said, before he spoke.
"I have a very wide mandate from the very top."
"I don't care."
"This can be a punishment or an arrangement. Nothing had to come to this. If you want to see your daughters again, come over here."
She stepped back towards the door, looking around for a weapon. Even the lights and bedside fixtures were fully attached to the walls.
He approached her instead, touching her cheek with the back of his hand. "I don't want you getting too aggravated."
She whimpered, feeling a pinch in her leg as he injected her with a mild sedative.
"Give me a kiss," he whispered.
"N-no."
"Give me a kiss," he repeated.
When he leaned in, she froze. "You'll let me see them," she asked, as her heartbeat slowed unnaturally.
"Yes," he said, kissing her. She held still, closing her hands into fists.
As he started to touch her elsewhere, she prayed to lose consciousness again. She thought that would do much better than experiencing it. But the sedative did its job in that regard too.
He moved his mouth to her forehead. "Get on the bed."
"Please don't," she said.
"I want you to get on the bed."
"No."
"What did I tell you about compliance?"
"No."
"Now."
"I'll get dressed for the generals."
"It's too late. We can do this over and over. I have been instructed to ensure you're cooperative. And I will do my job."
"I'll cooperate."
"Good. So get on the bed."
"No, with everything else."
"You still don't understand." He started to lead her to the bed. Despite her whimpering, he sat and then laid her back down, climbing on top.
When Maree arrived at General Hux's conference room, she saw her mother subdued in a dress she'd never seen before. "Mom!" She called out, as Shanna followed close behind.
Kira's eyes started to water, and she struggled down off her chair to hug both girls.
"What happened," Maree asked.
"I fell. I had an episode. Are you two okay?"
Maree nodded, taking Shanna's hand.
Shanna looked around the room, evaluating the situation. There was one security officer, an old guy who looked really, really familiar, though she was sure she had never met him before. She realized that she recognized him from their security warnings. Someone from her family's past. If the three of them went at once, they could get his blaster. But there was no way for the fourteen year old to tell Maree or her mother about the plan.
Nothing else around the table could be used as a weapon, except for a pen outside her reach. When you factored in the two stormtroopers who had escorted her and her sister, and now waited outside the door, they were fairly trapped.
"Won't you introduce me," the old man asked.
Their mother looked at him, silently begging for something Shanna didn't understand. A moment later, Kira nodded. "My oldest Maree. And Shanna. This is Captain Rourke. He is in charge of my security."
"The girls' too," Rourke said. "Lovely to meet you two. I was very close with your grandmother Maia once upon a time."
"Didn't you kill her," Shanna asked.
"He was the head of security at the time," Maree said.
"Oh—so you let her die," Shanna said.
*your incompetence
"Shanna," Kira said, fearfully. "Stop it."
Rourke looked at the girl seriously. He considered getting down on one knee, but the girl was too tall. Instead, he frowned. "Sweetheart, I would have done anything to save her life, but it was out of our hands. The Rebellion had plotted with spies on the inside to take your grandmother out. There was nothing we could do."
"Our aunt said you tried to rape her when she was my age," Shanna said.
"That's not true," Kira said.
And Rourke nodded, looking concerned. "I've barely spoken with you Aunt. I was checking in on your family. I think I may have spooked her at the time."
"Shanna. I need you to calm down," Kira said.
Shanna folded her arms and grunted. "Fine."
Maree frowned at her sister and took a seat. Even if she was unhappy and scared that they had been brought here, she thought it was best to be diplomatic.
"There's a chess set," Rourke said to Shanna.
"Such a shame there's no one worth playing with," Shanna said. "I mean. I mean I guess you're pretty good at chess." She glared at her mother.
"Shanna," Kira whispered. "Play by yourself."
"Fine—." Shanna looked over at the bookshelf where a chess board lay in a neat box. She placed it on the conference table and began setting it up. Before she had finished, the door opened to reveal General Hux and Minister Vandron.
"Kira," Vandron greeted. "So gloomy. I'm very sorry you were injured on your journey." He drew in a breath. "These must be your younglings. Such beautiful guards."
"I don't exist for some old guy to think I'm pretty," Shanna said.
"That's true," Vandron smiled. "The entire Galaxy shall revel in you."
"That's not what I meant," Shanna said.
"My girls aren't part of this. Please," she begged all three men. "This is between you and me."
"It's very nice to meet you properly, Doctor," General Hux said.
"Kira. You look beautiful. Radiant. We heard of your pregnancy. Such wonderful news."
"Don't hurt my younglings," Kira said.
"Hurt them? No, I don't think that will be necessary. Quite the contrary." General Hux smiled broader, and Maree couldn't help but admire it.
Kira stared at him, taking her older daughter's hand under the table. "They don't need to be involved in any of this. I'll do as you ask."
"Let's discuss our situation," Hux said. "We're all at the table. Let's find a way for our interests to align."
"What do you want," Kira asked.
"We want to record some propaganda holos, make sure the Galaxy knows who we are." Vandron smiled around the room. "We have to win the cultural fight."
"The galaxy knows," Kira said.
"Not what we want them to," Vandron said. "That's why you're here. And given your pregnancy. We want to make sure you have the care you deserve."
"I have the best care I possibly could on Corellia. You kidnapped us. You took my younglings from school."
"Surely you understand we had no other option, Kira."
Kira rubbed her forehead. "All of this violence was not necessary. I'll do what you say."
"Of course. As long as you cooperate with us and with the security team, we should all be perfectly comfortable." Vandron smiled. "I'm glad you're willing to do that."
"I had an eating disorder when I was three because of you."
"Ma'am, there was a lot going on when you were three," Captain Rourke said.
"As there is now. I have struggled my whole life with what you put me through, Vandron," Kira said.
"We never wanted that," he said.
"You can't even conceive of what it's like to only really see your mother covered in makeup with her hair perfectly done."
"I can't," he agreed. "Your mother was special. I want that for you and your girls."
"Their father and I don't."
"I know," Vandron said. "We all have to make sacrifices."
"I'll do your propaganda," Kira said. "Leave my daughters out of it."
"We can't do that," Hux said. "Maree is such a gifted actress, a famous, gifted actress. We need her, and of course Shanna is a grand master. Her reputation precedes her too."
Vandron walked around to observe the girl's chess game against herself. "Very good."
Shanna immediately stopped playing. "I'm not doing shit for you."
"I'll do it," Maree said. She squeezed her mother's hand. "It's just a script."
Kira winced and then jumped when Vandron clapped. "Wonderful! You'll be a massive star in all corners of the galaxy."
"She already is," Kira whispered. "I-I. Look. My girls need to be tutored."
"Of course," General Hux said.
"We've made arrangements for several instructors." Vandron nodded. "With a modern and accurate curriculum."
Kira breathed out through her nose. "Let me see that first."
"Of course, of course." Vandron smiled, typing at his comm.
Hux began to walk around the room, settling behind the girls. His eyes lingered on Maree far too long for Kira's liking.
"What do you think you're doing," Kira asked.
Hux acted, at first, as though he didn't know she was talking to him. "What?"
"My daughters are fourteen and seventeen. It's me you're speaking to."
"Yes, it has been, Mrs. Alvarez."
"It will be," Kira said. "They are children."
"I think there's been a misunderstanding," Hux said. "I apologize."
"No matter," Vandron said.
"How long must we be here," Kira asked.
"Until the work is done." General Hux came back to Vandron's side. "And until we arrive at a more permanent arrangement."
"Like what," Kira asked, angrily.
"We'll have to discuss and see what's possible."
"And when I. Have my baby. Six months. Will we be home by then?"
"If you are not, we will ensure that you have excellent care." Hux nodded. "That said, assuming your work is done by then, we won't necessarily keep you that long."
"If you do," she said. "I need my husband."
"We will make arrangements." Vandron assured her. "I assure you."
"Can the girls and I stay in the same unit?"
"I would not recommend it," Rourke said. "If you were to be targeted, you would all be in the same place."
"Kind of like how my parents, Garoche, and I were," Kira asked.
"If our security team thinks it best then that's what we will do." Hux insisted, nodding to Rourke. "We can revisit it eventually, but for now we'll follow your recommendation, Captain."
"T-then let them share. Please. I don't want them alone."
"They can share, surely, Captain?" Vandron nodded. "I can't imagine that's too big a risk."
"That will be fine," Rourke said, furtively looking at the General.
"Of course." Vandron smiled. "See? We can be amenable, right Kira?"
Kira didn't respond. "How can I get in touch with someone if I need help?"
"You will be able to call Captain Rourke from your room," Vandron said.
"And if I want to talk to you, or General Hux?"
"You'll be able to go through Rourke for that." Hux explained. "And we will have regular meetings on other topics as well."
"If my daughters and I can't stay together," Kira said. "I need a way to talk to them when I need to."
"Captain Rourke can help with that. Don't worry, as long as you're cooperative, things will be very easy for you and the girls." Vandron's smile hadn't dropped since he had arrived. "I think that was all we had to discuss this moment. Is there anything else?"
Kira slowly looked among the three men. "No," she finally said.
She was too fearful to say anything about what had happened. They clearly already knew and didn't care. All she could do was continue to cooperate and leverage it to keep her younglings safe.
He was sitting outside of her recording session one afternoon. They'd already had lunch and her mother was with Shanna, having decided after months of observation that that was fine. No one had bothered Maree. He had been waiting.
The general closed a small book and looked up. "Excellent job today, Maree. Excellent."
She found herself about to stutter, and paused instead. "Thank you, General."
He stood, looming nearly a quarter meter over her. "I planned to escort you today."
"Oh—okay." She peered around quickly. "I thought I'm supposed to walk with someone else. My mom said I'm not supposed to be alone."
"Not today, my dear." He offered her his arm. "You're old enough to decide what you want."
She looked around them again, and then closed her hand around his bicep.
"You have an excellent cadence for the recordings. I didn't think you had ever done voice work before?"
"Not really, mostly theater."
"I saw one of your shows on Coruscant. The March of Peace. Your performance was excellent."
"Thank you." He saw that she was blushing before he thought she realized it.
"Have you seen the bottom deck viewport?"
"N-no," Maree said. "Actually they said we're not supposed to see what planets we're moving past."
"Well, you won't recognize this one. Would you like a change of view?"
She nodded. "Sure. Okay."
"Have people been kind to you," he asked.
"Yes," she said, carefully. "But we're prisoners."
"It's a delicate situation." He said, calling the lift. "Is there a way to make it more comfortable for you?"
"I don't know. My mother isn't okay."
"She will feel better when the pregnancy is through. It's hard on her, I fear."
"She was pulled out of her practice by men with guns, who had killed her security. Our school was raided."
"That too." He sighed. "I wish none of that was necessary."
"So, why did they do it?"
"It's part of a larger strategy. Unfortunately we are the underdogs in this fight. You, your mother, and your sister would not be here any other way."
"I was in physics. They pulled me out of my class."
"Well, you've been able to continue your studies here. The tutors we have are top notch."
"Yeah," she said, slowly. "B-But I'm trying to explain why I think my mom is so scared."
"I hear you." He turned to look at her as they reached the lowest deck.
Something about his face was so severe, she took a step back as the lift stopped.
"Right through here." He indicated, leading the way out towards the view port
She clasped her hands together, following a cautious step behind.
"This is an unoccupied planet. But there is a beautiful forest just in view."
She nodded, standing parallel to him albeit several feet away. "It's beautiful," she echoed.
"I'm glad you like it. If you wanted we could arrange for your family to go down to the surface briefly."
She turned back to look at him. "We could?"
"If you'd grace me with letting me walk you back to your room more often."
"What if my mom sees you?"
"We just have to make sure she doesn't"
"Okay," Maree said. "When can we go outside?"
"I'll make the arrangements for later today. I won't go with you. Just enjoy the picnic. Don't tell you mom," he said. "I know you can keep a secret."
She nodded, slowly turning her head to the side. He saw something change in her eyes, as she frowned, staring off.
"So-I suppose we have a few moments alone."
She snapped back to attention and realized he was right next to her.
"What ah. What was your favorite role you ever performed?"
"March of Peace, actually," she said, biting her lip.
He nodded "Your monologue. Before the end of act two." He shook his head. "I had chills the first time I saw."
"You saw it more than once?"
He smiled small. "You're right that it was your best role."
Maree's eyes widened. Before she could take a step back, he took her hand.
"I'm very impressed with you." He murmured, rubbing his thumb over her palm.
"T-thank you." Her head tilted sideways. She swallowed hard.
His smile grew. "Let's get you back to your mum." He leaned in quickly and kissed her cheek.
She froze in that second. When he pulled back and let go, she nodded. "I think she's waiting for me."
He squeezed her hand and then offered his arm again. "Then I shall escort you."
"Thank you." She took his arm again, quickly looking away from him and back to the window.
They lingered only a few seconds more before he led her to the lift and finally down the hall towards her quarters.
When Shanna and Kira came back from their testing meeting with her tutors, Captain Rourke told the trio about the visit to the planet down below. There was no mention of Hux having made the decision, or of it being for Maree, and the teen didn't point any of it out. After the next day's filming, Hux was waiting for her again.
Hux smiled warmly as she came out. "Great work today." He stood and offered his arm again.
"It's weird they want me for the filming and not Shanna," Maree said.
"Why's that?" Hux frowned, curiously, looking down at the gourmet chocolate popsicles that he had brought for them. "You're the master actress."
"She's a lot smarter than me. And I don't look like my mom's side of the family at all, she looks just like my grandma."
"That's very perceptive Maree, but you're just as smart as your sister. You're so mature for your age, and that's crucial for delivering our message. Shanna is great-and a mastermind no doubt about it. But she isn't a speaker like you."
"She wouldn't do it if they asked her."
"We're working on it. She's been playing a lot of training games with the grandmasters we have here."
"I don't think any of us understand what you're trying to do. M-my mom is just scared, all of the time. It's like something happened to her."
"What is she saying?"
"That you guys are crazy. That you just want to hurt us and hurt other people."
"Well, that's not true. I actually don't enjoy hurting people, I want the galaxy to be stable and peaceful. And I think that's what most of us want. Now, I can't speak for the likes of Ren or the Supreme Leader, but for me, I just wanted a safer galaxy. My father. Instilled that in me at least. One of the only good things."
"Are your parents here," Maree asked.
He shook his head. "My father. Isn't very present. It was only when I showed military aptitude that he cared much at all. And my mother." He trailed off. "I'm sorry your family is uncomfortable."
Maree frowned, passing him another popsicle. "We miss our dad."
"I know." He said softly. "That's something we can look to resolve too. I think it's very mature of you to be so thoughtful about your family. And I'm glad you have a good father."
"It's like nobody here recognizes him as our dad. It's really unsettling. 'Tarkin' has never been part of my last name, but it's the only last name they use for me."
He nodded. "The First Order places high value on legacy. Your great grandfather's legacy."
"I never knew my great grandfather," Maree said. "And that's not the legacy my parents want us to have."
"I'm sure you know very little of that side of your past. Did you know your Uncle Garoche was here with us for a while?"
"Yes," Maree said. "He talks about it. Not well. We don't not talk about the past. But everyone from that side of my family died in really tragic ways except for my great grandmother."
He nodded, "I understand why that colors your view of the past. And the trauma of the Empire's fall hurt many people-it's more memorable than what came before. Your mum is not alone. Don't worry-I didn't want to get into a difficult discussion. I do think it's wonderful that you know some of your history."
"M-my mom's childhood completely traumatized her," Maree said. "Not just the fall of the Empire."
"She lost her mother to republic terrorists. I can't imagine." Hux sympathized. "We want to prevent that kind of disorder."
Maree looked down. "It was a little more complicated than that."
"It was complicated. But when you boil it down, the simplest reality is that she was murdered by terrorists."
His tone had changed again. She had tensed, and she was looking away from him.
He stared down at the planet. "It's good you care about your family. Too many families do not treat their children well."
"What's going to happen when my mom has her baby?"
"That depends on what agreement we reach." He sighed. "She hasn't been willing to cooperate with us overall. We aren't angry. But it is frustrating when we just want what's best for you." He reached an arm around her lower back.
Maree turned towards him and locked eyes. "W-what have you offered her?"
"Well, if she cooperates and records some videos, negotiates a treaty with Corellia to allow us to repair and build ships in the Core, and arranges some monetary transfers, we planned to let your family reunite. But sadly none of those items are being met."
"Do all of those things have to happen?"
"Not all of them. But the Supreme Leader and other generals are growing impatient. I'm doing my best to protect you."
"They're going to hurt us?"
"No, I won't let that happen." He smiled, "I've grown quite fond of your family. But it does take work to keep you safe."
"How can I help," Maree asked.
"Just keep being you. Keep recording. Try to keep your mother from getting upset."
"M-my mom is scared," Maree repeated. "How can I help them understand?"
"I will keep trying. Work as hard as you can at your recordings." He gave her a squeeze. "I know you are already working very, very hard."
When her eyes waned and her head fell to the side, he shook his head, rubbing her back. "Don't worry."
"H-how can I not worry?"
"Just remember, as long as I'm on your side, nothing bad will happen. I'm here for you."
"What if you get mad at me?"
He shook his head. "I can't see that happening. Maree, let's do something fun." He paused. "Do you like holo games?"
She shrugged, her eyes wide. "I g-guess."
"Let's go play. I have several back in my suite. Oh, and you can meet Millicent."
"Millicent?"
"My cat," Hux said.
"Okay." She nodded. "I love cats."
The start of the visit was pleasant, even fun. He showed her his collection of games, most of which were shooters or ship piloting or racing games and they tried two. She almost forgot she was sitting next to her captor until he slid his hand along her lower back's waistline.
She lowered the controller, peeking over to him but quickly turning away and looking back to the screen.
"It's alright. He smiled, closer now than he usually was. "Maree, you're so fun to be around. I'm really enjoying this visit."
"Thank you."
He shifted in closer still, pulling her in for a kiss on the mouth.
He opened his mouth first. She followed. What happened next felt little different from the other times. The other men who had wanted the same from her. He had her head in his lap and when he had finished he took her back to his bed.
She had tensed. When he came onto the bed, she reached for her shirt. "Do you want me to take it off?"
"I'd love that." He murmured. Before long, they were both naked. The only thing that surprised her was that he didn't try to mount her, instead kissing down her body.
"Do you think I'm attractive," he asked, looking up from between her legs.
She nodded, closing her eyes.
"I think you're beautiful."
He continued between her legs for a few minutes before the pressure on her lower body released. When he came up, he was wearing a smile as he wiped at his mouth. "Did you enjoy yourself?"
She nodded, extricating her wrists from his hands.
He lay beside her on the bed, now twirling a piece of her hair.
"I didn't know this was what we were doing," she said, carefully watching in case she upset him.
"It wasn't. Until you helped me out. I couldn't leave it unrepaid."
"You know how old I am. Right?"
"Your maturity and poise and intelligence are much more important."
"But you know I'm seventeen. I just turned seventeen."
"It's not important to me. You're brilliant and talented."
"I w-won't tell anybody. I promise. You won't get in trouble."
"You're right. This will be a private relationship. We are having a wonderful time together are we not?"
Her eyes widened. "Oh. Y-yes. I didn't know—yes."
"I'm glad. And next time we can maybe make something together for a lunch." He checked his watch. "We have another two hours before you have to leave."
"Okay. What do you want to do?"
"Well, I was having fun playing games. We could go back to that. Or I could show you some photos of my homeworld."
"Where are you from?"
"Arkanis. It's a rainy world. But it's beautiful."
"You said your parents weren't here. Are they there?"
"Well. It's a long story, but." He looked away from her. "I was. My father didn't ever let me see my mum."
She swallowed, propping herself up on her arm. "W-what?"
"Don't be alarmed." He laid on his back. "My father is not a good man. He spearheaded our trooper program, but he has very little else to offer the galaxy. An absent father, who hurt women left and right."
"I'm sorry."
"I won't be like that," he said. "I want my children to have both parents present. I want them to feel loved. And I will never, ever have an affair."
It felt odd that he was telling her this, it sounded like he was trying to reassure a partner, which she supposed he had decided they now were.
He sighed a moment later. "I have to hope for a better future and work to make it so."
"Shouldn't my baby sister have her mom too, when she's born?"
"Of course she should. She will have her family, I assure you."
"But what happens if they get mad?"
"I'll be your shield and hers."
"We got taken away from my dad."
"And we want you back with him. Really."
"You all don't like how they were raising us."
"It was simpler than you deserve."
Maree paused. "We needed to heal from the past."
"We need to rebuild the glory of the past. But leave behind the bad."
"I just want my family to be safe. Everybody's families to be safe."
"That's all we want."
"They killed people," Maree whispered. "When they came into my classroom, my friend Sara, they almost shot her. They shot Shanna's teacher in the leg. They killed so many security guards at the school, at my mom's work."
"Sometimes drastic action is necessary. And you're part of our movement now."
"Those people had families too."
"Maree, please."
"I d-don't understand why they had to do that."
"Well, we couldn't have made this reality if they hadn't. I won't apologize for that."
"W-when I have kids, I don't want them to live around violence."
He nodded. "I fight because I want my children to live in peace."
"Those people didn't need to die."
"Perhaps not. But we have to do whatever it takes to secure the future."
"We're talking in circles."
"We are. But our values align. We care about family."
"My family is in a lot of pain."
"Maybe together." He reached for her hand. "We can heal that pain."
She inhaled, looking down at their hands, now intertwined. "Together?" She hesitated, and then started to nod. "I think my mom would like it if she could talk to my dad whenever she wants."
"Well, we may be able to arrange that." He gave her a squeeze. "Would that make you happy?"
Maree nodded, leaning up to kiss him.
He kissed her back quickly. "Why don't I look into that tonight?"
She nodded. "Thanks."
He pushed her onto her back, and mounted her, but she could see he wasn't ready yet for anything else. "This will be the start of something good. I can feel it."
She nodded. Her hands set at his pecs, careful not to push him off, but ready.
He looked down. "Are you alright? Did that—" he slid off of her, laying back beside her. "You're worried."
Her eyes widened. She looked more scared than ever. "No. Sorry, I'm okay. It's okay."
"Someone hurt you. Someone you trusted." He watched her. "Who was it?"
She sputtered, shaking her head. "Nobody."
"The way you responded. Was it someone you trusted? A coworker?"
"Nobody hurt me," Maree insisted. "I just got startled."
"Maree, for this to work we need to be honest with each other. Please. You can tell me about your sexual history. I won't judge you for it." He looked at her seriously.
"For w-what to work?"
"We're working together to protect your family. We are a team now."
"What does that have to do with my. Sexual history?"
"You can trust me."
"Is it okay if I put my shirt on?"
"Of course, whatever makes you comfortable. " He sat up, watching her, now with concern instead of only animal lust.
She climbed out of the bed, picked up the shirt, and pulled it over her head. When she turned back, he was staring right at her. She blinked in surprise.
"Are you alright?" He frowned. "You seem shaken."
"I'm fine, I swear."
His frown broke. "Well. Let's just share. I've had a few significant girlfriends, but the Armed forces makes things hard. And so few understand our class."
"My parents don't really keep us focused on things like class."
"Well, that's understandable, given your father's own background and the work your mother has done to distance herself from the upper class. But it isn't anything to be ashamed of."
"I don't think anyone is ashamed of it, it's just not important to us."
"Well, you'll like living with this lifestyle."
"That's not what my parents want for us," Maree said.
"But you deserve it. You're a brilliant woman, a star. You'd have that kind of talent no matter who your family was."
"Right, that's why I don't see how it's valuable information about somebody."
"Well, it shapes who you are and who you can become."
"My mom's side of the family has never not been upper class, we didn't do anything."
"Every member of your family has earned and re-earned it. Your sister is a chess prodigy. Your mother the most skilled veterinarian on Corellia. Your grandmother, your great grandfather. They need no introduction. Your family has always been full of prodigies, has always been the best at whatever you set your mind to.
"My grandmother's life was tragic," Maree said. "She was never, ever happy. She was never allowed to do anything she wanted to do. She was in a lot of pain, and she was really, really flawed."
"She earned her PhD. She was brilliant. She is to be admired. Her sacrifice won't be forgotten."
Maree left the bed, fishing for her underwear.
"It's on the right side." He stretched and stood. "Are you hungry?"
"My mom is probably expecting me."
"She's not. You're supposed to be filming," he reminded her.
"I should look at my next scripts."
He pulled on his pants. "Practice on me."
She turned back, her eyes widening. "What?"
"Your lines. Read them to me."
"I haven't seen them yet."
"Let me download them. Go ahead, clean up and I'll have them ready."
She looked down once she had turned away, slowly putting her clothes back on.
"You never told me if you're hungry."
"I'm fine."
"Okay." He walked out into the living area to do as he'd promised. "Do you prefer to practice with the music or without?"
"I s-start by practicing alone."
"I won't make any noise."
Hux frowned, walking back to her and touching the back of one hand to her cheek. "I like you very much. I think you're beautiful and smart and caring. I don't want the family I make to have to go through the same things that I did."
She stared back at him, nodding.
"So. Let's listen to those lines."
"You still need to get them for me," she whispered.
He nodded, pulling them up on his datapad and downloading them to the view screen.
She moved out to his living space, and sat on the couch, performing just for him, just as he liked.