The Funeral
Chapter 4, Post 1
By obi's girl
Sera Fey`lina irritably tapped her fingers as she waited for the military staff officers to arrive. Unlike those that had been partying, Sera didn't have the time to mess around. The Wraiths especially had the reputation for all-night partying and there was no doubt in her mind that was the reason several of the officers were late.
"Well, I guess they can't be any worse than the Jedi," she mused.
Wes laughed, looking up at Sera, "Why don't you just call off the meeting. No one's coming, Fey`lina,"
Sera rolled her eyes, "This meeting is important because of the intelligence I've discovered...it's vital the military know about it. Besides, it concerns Jaina Solo's body."
He was about to say something to rebuke her claim but Gavin Darklighter, Wedge Antilles, Tycho Celchu arrived. Wedge smiled at Sera, "Sorry for keeping you waiting Fey`lina, but we were all very busy this morning."
"Whatever," she mumbled, "Let's get this meeting started so I can report to Master Skywalker and tell him the same thing."
Gavin frowned, looking curiously at Wedge, "Report to Master Skywalker? What about?"
"If you boys haven't forgotten, I'm also a Jedi Knight. I have an obligation to report any information concerning the military and the Jedi to Master Skywalker, himself," Sera paused, "And this piece of information, he'll definitely want to know about."
"What type of information?" Wedge asked, leaning forward.
Sera was silent a moment, "My Intel has discovered that Jaina Solo's body was not cremated as we all had thought. The military screwed up and collected the wrong body, and now Solo's body is still out there. And wherever it is, it's at risk. It's at risk because there's a strong possibility, the Vong might stumble upon it and if that happens, the Jedi can't perform the ritual again to properly cremate her body."
Wedge huffed, scratching his chin, "Jag is my nephew. I talked to him last night. He was feeling better about himself; just think how he'll react if he finds out his wife's body wasn't cremated like he believed. It would kill him to go through her funeral a second time."
"I realize that, Antilles," Sera replied, "but we can't allow the Vong to get a hold of Solo's body. If they did, they'd probably mutilate it."
"And Luke? You're gonna tell him the same thing?" Gavin asked.
She shrugged, "I have to as liaison. I think he'd like to know; he deserves to know,"
Gavin huffed, turning to Tycho, "Order a search, gather a team together and look for her body. I want 10 teams searching."
Tycho nodded, "Yes sir," and he vanished.
Gavin turned his attention to Sera, "When are you going to talk to Luke?"
She shrugged, "I was planning on stopping by his quarters after this meeting and talk to him then,"
"Delay that," Gavin added, "You don't go anywhere near Luke until the search party arrives with Jaina Solo's body, and then you can talk to Luke about a second funeral," he turned to Wedge, "I guess maybe you should talk to Jag and warn him about the search,"
Wedge nodded, looking down, "I'll do that," he faced Sera, "I know this isn't the best news, but thank you Sera for your help,"
"You're welcome, Antilles," she replied, "Jaina and I -- we were friends, too. I loved her like a little sister; I know the feeling of loss and my condolences go to you and your family."
Wedge smiled, standing up, "Thank you, Sera. Excuse me." he concluded, leaving the conference room.
tbc
The Funeral
Chapter 4, Post 2
'Frozen In Time'
By obi's girl
I smiled, kissing Jaina one last time as she rested in my arms. We were both late for a staff meeting but since Jaina was a Goddess and had special privileges, we both had excuses to be late. I didn't mind. Life out there is harsh but staying with Jaina, things become a lot simpler and less complicated. Maybe that's the feeling of being in love, life seems less complicated.
"We really should get going," Jaina mumbled between kisses, "Even if we can afford to be late."
My smile lingered, "I can't believe you want to leave to attend a stuffy staff meeting rather than spend your free time here with me,"
She shrugged, "Everyone still needs me to put a front and do my duty. I can't ignore that because I'm pregnant and engaged, Jagged Fel,"
I kissed her nose, "I guess not. All right, we'll go...in a minute."
Jaina nodded, pushing me, "No, we'll go now, Colonel Fel. That's an order."
~~
As usual, I kept a distance away from Jaina, allowing her entry first into the briefing room. My Uncle was there, talking quietly to Gavin Darklighter. Jaina sat down first and then, I took a seat beside her next to Kyp. Kyp leaned over, "Glad you finally decided to join us, Fel."
I only rolled my eyes, ignoring him, glancing at Jaina. She relaxed in her chair, playing the part of the spoiled goddess. "What is this meeting that demands my time, Commander?"
Gavin smirked, "It's of top priority, your worship."
Jaina frowned, sensing something was off. She glanced around the table -- everyone was accounted for. Their minds were hiding something or were trying to hide something important. Jaina reached for me, grabbing hold of my hand as Leia appeared with wrapped gifts and C3P-0 with a cake. "What's this?" she cried.
"This is your engagement party," Leia replied, as C3P-0 set the cake on the table, "It would have been sooner but some of us couldn't quite decide which direction to take the party."
Jaina smiled, hugging her mother and C3P-0, "Thanks guys. Thank you so much."
"In times like these, an engagement is a wonderful thing and finding true love is very rare," Kyp said from behind. Jaina turned, smiling up at him and even surprised him with a hug, "Congratulations, Jaina."
"Thank you," she repeated, "Thank you."
"Gifts! Gifts! Gifts! Gifts!" Wedge chanted, hitting his fist against the table.
Jaina rolled her eyes, tugging my arm as she sat down again, taking one of the gifts aside. I smiled, sitting beside Jaina. Our engagement was supposed to be a secret but it's hard to keep a secret on such a small base because word eventually leaks around and someone finds out. But it didn't matter to me now; seeing the smile in Jaina's face was all that mattered.
Jaina unwrapped the tissue paper, removing the lid to the box. She could make out a silver frame but what was there, she didn't know. Jaina's smile lessoned as she removed the frame and realized it was a picture of herself with Jacen and Anakin, a year or two before the Vong war started.
"It's beautiful," she cried, fingering the frame as I picked up the card. It was from her parents of course, mostly from Leia. "I wish they were here. There's so much I'd want to tell them about my life and what's happened."
Wedge cleared his throat, standing up and handing his present to Jaina, "Giving this present is just pretense, Jaina...the real present for me, is getting to have you as a part of my family."
"You guys are so sweet," Jaina cried, "Stop it. You're making me want to be a girl and become emotional and all that crap." I smiled, patting her shoulder.
~~
Wish we were there too, Jaina, Jacen mused, watching her open her wedding gifts.
Anakin came up beside him, She looks nice; she looks happy,
Jacen grinned, staring at his sister's image, She does look happy doesn't she? Ya know, Kyp was right...about what he said. Finding true love is very rare, and it's obvious Jaina has found hers in Jag.
Let's just hope this one lasts. I'd hate to see Jaina hurt, Anakin mused, She deserves to be happy and to continue living her life.
~~
"You miss them don't you?" I asked, helping Jaina clean up the conference table and setting aside our wedding gifts. I had heard of Anakin's death on Myrkr and then of course, Jacen's disappearance, but when I heard one of Leia's children had died, my first thought was that it was Jaina herself.
Jaina shrugged, smiling a bit, "After Anakin died, I was angry with Jacen for leaving his body there. Jacen said he was just following Anakin's orders, but being as stubborn as I am, I saw it as a betrayal. But anger fades with time and eventually, I stopped being angry with Jacen. He was only following orders. Anakin wanted everyone to get out and get to safety, including Tahiri," Jaina paused, "I'll always miss Jacen and Anakin. They'd been there my whole life.and now, I think this is the one time they won't see me on the happiest day of my life. Or maybe they'll be watching."
I smiled, leaning over and kissing her cheek, "You're a good person, Jaina.I think we've both grown a lot since this war has started."
She frowned slightly, resting her hand on her stomach, "And now, we're going to bringing a child into a war-torn galaxy. Jag, I'm not so sure. The galaxy isn't a safe place now and probably won't be safe for a long time. It was hard enough when little Ben was born but for a girl, it can be very traumatizing."
I gently rubbed her back, smiling, "I know what you're saying Jaina, but I promise you, whatever happens, we will not abandon this child to fight out there. I wouldn't leave our daughter at home while we're both in a battle, halfway across the galaxy."
Jaina smiled again, kissing my cheek, "Then, I guess we're both lucky to have you as our protector," she paused again, "C'mon, we need to get these gifts back to the apartment."
~~
I smiled, leaning forward to kiss Jaina again as left the conference room. Normally, if we were in public, we wouldn't be this close. Everyone on the base was already familiar with the notion that Jaina was a Goddess for military reasons - to irritate the Vong - and everyone else was beneath her. I was beneath her since I was only a mortal, but ranks, titles - didn't really matter at that moment.
We weren't in a particular rush to get to the apartment but everyone else around us was running from one hall to another. Jaina picked up on their nervousness and became worried. "Something's happening, or about to happen," she mused, kissing my cheek one last time. She grabbed a lieutenant as he made his way down the hallway, "What's happening?"
The boy shrugged, "It's not a drill. Vong coral skippers have entered the system."
Jaina froze, looking into my eyes. Borealis was supposed to be a safe place, a haven but somehow, the Vong were able to penetrate our defenses. I leaned down and kissed her forehead, "Meet with my Uncle. Go, I'll put these away and meet you down there as soon as I can,"
"Are you sure?" she questioned, "What if I have to leave the ground before you reach the bay?"
I smiled, kissing her again, "In your condition, I don't think you'll have to. Just stay with Wedge until I get there." I kissed Jaina again before sprinting towards the apartment.
"I love you," she whispered but I was already gone before the words could reach me.
~~
"Jaina!" Wedge yelled as she entered the bay, "Where's Jag?"
Jaina shrugged, running over to him, "He ran real quickly back to the apartment to put the gifts away. He'll be here as soon as he can. How serious is the situation?"
Wedge directed her to a computer counsel, "Many of our fighters have been knocked out. Five in the last hour; it seems the Vong are becoming more familiar with our military tactics. We need to get you up as soon as possible,"
Jaina grabbed his arm as he turned, "I can't go up, Wedge. I can't explain it but I can't go up. I'm sorry."
"Can't go up? Jaina, we need you up there. The Vong haven't lost any skips since the dogfight started but we're rapidly loosing pilots and I sure as Hell don't want to fill out more 'death notices'."
"I understand that, Wedge but I can't go up. I just can't."
Wedge frowned, looking at Jaina, really looked at her, "Is it a Jedi thing? Have you sensed something about this battle we should know about?"
"No, I haven't -- I," Jaina paused, looking away from him and resting her hand on her stomach. She couldn't risk her child but she couldn't risk any more pilots being shot down. But then there was her promise to me to stay on the ground until I got there. "I, all right. I'm going up."
"But you just said you couldn't ---,"
Jaina turned to him, "Forget what I said. I'm Goddess and I have the right to change my mind. I'm going up, prepare my x-wing!"
~~
Jaina, no! Jacen shouted as he watched his sister suit up and climb into her x-wing. Jaina looked around curiously, thinking I made it after all but when she didn't see me, she shrugged, pulling on her helmet. The flight crew stood back as Jaina maneuvered her x-wing out of the bay and shot into space.
Wedge stood there, watching her disappear and then turned, still worried. The way Jaina acted, it was almost as if she was protecting someone or maybe herself. But Jaina herself knew she didn't need to be afraid if something happened. She was a Jedi Knight and a skilled pilot.
"Wedge? Where'd she go?" I asked, running up to my Uncle.
He shrugged, "Jaina just took off a few minutes ago. She was hesitant to leave but she changed her mind."
"She's out there?! In her condition..." I shrieked, darting towards my x- wing.
Wedge looked curiously at me, standing on the side on my x-wing. "Um Jag, you know Jaina can handle herself out there. She'll be fine,"
I nodded, "No, she won't be...It's complicated."
tbc
The Funeral
Chapter 4, Post 3
By obi's girl
"Sera Fey`lina," a voice said from behind her. Sera turned, expecting to see Gavin and listen to him warn her again not talk to Luke but she saw Kyp Durron instead. Sera smiled, greeting the Jedi Master. Sera had known Kyp Durron for a long time; she'd flown in his squadron before the war started. They were always very close but at times, Sera always wished he'd notice her and sweep her off her feet.
"Kyp," she said, "It's nice to see you. It's been a long time,"
Kyp smiled, "It has. What are you doing here?"
Sera froze, "I was in a conference with Gavin Darklighter and Wedge Antilles. It was mainly about military information, leaks - that sort of thing."
He nodded, "That's right. I forgot you're liaison between the Jedi and the military," he paused, smiling again, "Ya know, I've missed you."
"I missed you, too," Sera murmured, "But you know we've all been busy in this war, taken away to do something to help...and I can see, you've been called as well."
"Oh yes, Twin Suns Squadron. That squadron mine as well be abandoned anyway. We lost Jaina Solo, our leader and a squadron without a leader isn't a squadron. You heard about her?"
Sera frowned, "I have," she paused, facing him again. Sera had been in and out so much but she knew back before the war started, Kyp had a little crush on Solo, and she suspected he still had feelings for her which was why she couldn't tell him about her body. "Kyp, I'm sorry I'd love to catch up with you but I have to go."
"No, Sera wait!" he cried, grabbing hold of her arm, "I know you're probably busy but seeing you again, well, it's been a long time since I've seen a familiar face - I want to talk to you some more, maybe even get together sometime."
Sera looked at him curiously and smirked, "Get together sometimes? Is that an offer for a date, Durron?"
He smirked, "Maybe, Fey`lina."
"I'm free tomorrow. I'll be in the pilot's lounge. We can have lunch together."
Kyp smiled, kissing her cheek, "I'll see you then Fey`lina," and he left.
Sera rolled her eyes, walking down the opposite corridor.
Tbc
The Funeral
Chapter 4, Post 4
'The Last Breathe'
A/N: Two more chapters until Jaina's death! Finally, you all get to see what she went through during her last moments alive.
Ever have one of those feelings something was going to happen and that you would have no control over? I've been having that feeling all week, but I don't know what it is supposed to be.
C'mon, Jaina! Where are you? I cried, flying through wreckage and past several X-wings. Most of the skips had retreated but some of them still remained, but I didn't really care. I checked my scanner again for her X- wing signature and then looked again out my veiwport. If something happened to her.Stop, thinking that Fel, she's fine. She has to be fine, they're both fine. They have to be.
Jag. a voice crackled through his com.
I smiled, raising the volume, "Jaina, where are you?"
I'm.Sithspit! she cried. I froze, hearing several coral skippers shoot at her. She cursed again under her breath.
Jaina, what's happened? Are you all right?
I lost a wing but I think I can compensate. I'll be all right. she paused, looking at her scopes again. Five skips were right on top of her. Jaina froze, staring at them before they all fired at her. Jag.
Jaina! I cried, searching space for her x-wing. Many wings had gone down but it was still hard to spot Jaina's. Finally, I caught sight of one x- wing, spiraling towards the planet and a couple coral skippers watching it from behind. I scowled, gritting my teeth. How could they.? Jaina, our child.
Jag, what's happened? my Uncle asked via comlink. Tears stained my eyes as I stared at the spot where Jaina's x-wing spiraled out of control and crashed. If I were a Jedi, I would have been able to act quicker to rescue her from those skips. I would have sensed the danger and saved her. Jag? my Uncle repeated.
Man down, sir, I croaked, The Goddess, skips cornered her and shot her down.
Wedge was silent, probably conferring with Gavin Darklighter before he answered me again, Take your squadron and return to base.
What about Jaina's x-wing. Shouldn't we look for the Goddess?
I'm sorry Jag but it's too risky. Return to base. That's an order! Wedge concluded.
Tbc
The Funeral
Chapter 4, Post 5
By obi's girl
"You saw your cousins? How did that go?" Celeste asked as Jag walked around her office. She hadn't expected him to show up so soon for another appointment, but she was glad he came anyway.
Jag shrugged, turning to her, "It was nice and comforting. Before seeing Syal and Myri, I believed I was the only one hurting from Jaina's death. But then I realized I wasn't the only one. Other people were hurting too. That's why I saw Wedge that day drinking at the bar, he was grieving."
Celeste smiled, "It's good you realize you're not the only one. It's a step towards recovery."
"I thought if I would see Syal, I would feel bad for myself but I didn't. It made me feel better to see her, I guess, probably because it gave me hope. Does that make sense?"
She nodded, "Yes, it does. I have a question? Why would seeing your cousin make you feel bad about yourself?"
He shrugged, "I thought if I saw Syal, seeing her face would remind me of Cherith, my daughter. It did, but I didn't feel bad about it. And that's good, right?"
"Of course," Celeste paused, "Jag, this is wonderful. You're making so much progress in a short amount of time. It's nothing like I expected."
Jag smirked, "On my way over here, I was even thinking about going back to work. I know you're probably gonna say it's too soon but I think I can do it."
"It is too soon for that, Jag. I know you may think it'll help you but it's still too soon," Celeste soothed, "This idea of visiting with relatives is a good idea. I think it's time for you to talk to the Solo's. You were after all, very close to becoming their son-in-law."
"Talk to Han?" Jag murmured, "I don't know if I'm ready that. Besides, Han might blame me for Jaina's death and then I'd be right back to where I started."
Celeste shrugged, "What about Leia? She's understanding."
"I don't know...Leia was very supportive of us. But I don't know."
"You don't have to talk to them right away; it's just a suggestion," Celeste added, "So, we've talked about your cousins - what about your aunt and uncle? How did that go?"
Jag frowned, scratching his head, "I told them about Cherith. I felt since Jaina and I were very close to being married, they deserved to know about her. Iella was devastated but Wedge was there to comfort her. They both loved Jaina very much."
"Because they'd both known her since she was a child?"
"..and her brothers, too." Jag finished, "It was hard on everyone."
"What will happen now?" Celeste asked.
~~
"Search and secure," Gavin started as he stood in front of a prepared crew. Weeks earlier, he'd given Jag the chance to search for Jaina's body after the accident and now, he was looking for her body.again. Only this time, Jag didn't know about it and hopefully, he would never have to find out. "Look through all possible areas where Lieutenant Solo's x-wing could have wound up. I know many were shot down during that dogfight and we may not find her, but we have to try. Dismissed."
He watched as the each squad leader directed their men where to look and started to move out. Gavin gasped, he hoped they would be successful but he couldn't be sure of that. "Gavin?" Wedge asked.
"I don't want to be the one to bring Jaina home and tell Han and Leia they have to bury her all over again, Wedge," he cried, "It was hard enough for all of us the first time around, but a second time, it'd kill them."
Wedge smiled, though it was strained, "I know the feeling. But maybe we'll get lucky this time and we will find her, and we can give whoever we did bury a nice funeral and give her our proper respects," he paused, "I haven't talked to Jag. I was going to but then I realized if Jag knew, he'd be devastated."
"I heard he came over to your apartment last night and you guys talked," Gavin said, "That's good. It's good he's not cooped up,"
Wedge shrugged, "He came mainly to see his cousins and to talk to us. There was - it's a complicated situation; I wish I could explain it but Jag made me promise not to say anything,"
"That's fine. Whatever it is, good or bad news, I think it would just make the situation a lot worse than it already is,"
tbc
Chapter 4, Post 1
By obi's girl
Sera Fey`lina irritably tapped her fingers as she waited for the military staff officers to arrive. Unlike those that had been partying, Sera didn't have the time to mess around. The Wraiths especially had the reputation for all-night partying and there was no doubt in her mind that was the reason several of the officers were late.
"Well, I guess they can't be any worse than the Jedi," she mused.
Wes laughed, looking up at Sera, "Why don't you just call off the meeting. No one's coming, Fey`lina,"
Sera rolled her eyes, "This meeting is important because of the intelligence I've discovered...it's vital the military know about it. Besides, it concerns Jaina Solo's body."
He was about to say something to rebuke her claim but Gavin Darklighter, Wedge Antilles, Tycho Celchu arrived. Wedge smiled at Sera, "Sorry for keeping you waiting Fey`lina, but we were all very busy this morning."
"Whatever," she mumbled, "Let's get this meeting started so I can report to Master Skywalker and tell him the same thing."
Gavin frowned, looking curiously at Wedge, "Report to Master Skywalker? What about?"
"If you boys haven't forgotten, I'm also a Jedi Knight. I have an obligation to report any information concerning the military and the Jedi to Master Skywalker, himself," Sera paused, "And this piece of information, he'll definitely want to know about."
"What type of information?" Wedge asked, leaning forward.
Sera was silent a moment, "My Intel has discovered that Jaina Solo's body was not cremated as we all had thought. The military screwed up and collected the wrong body, and now Solo's body is still out there. And wherever it is, it's at risk. It's at risk because there's a strong possibility, the Vong might stumble upon it and if that happens, the Jedi can't perform the ritual again to properly cremate her body."
Wedge huffed, scratching his chin, "Jag is my nephew. I talked to him last night. He was feeling better about himself; just think how he'll react if he finds out his wife's body wasn't cremated like he believed. It would kill him to go through her funeral a second time."
"I realize that, Antilles," Sera replied, "but we can't allow the Vong to get a hold of Solo's body. If they did, they'd probably mutilate it."
"And Luke? You're gonna tell him the same thing?" Gavin asked.
She shrugged, "I have to as liaison. I think he'd like to know; he deserves to know,"
Gavin huffed, turning to Tycho, "Order a search, gather a team together and look for her body. I want 10 teams searching."
Tycho nodded, "Yes sir," and he vanished.
Gavin turned his attention to Sera, "When are you going to talk to Luke?"
She shrugged, "I was planning on stopping by his quarters after this meeting and talk to him then,"
"Delay that," Gavin added, "You don't go anywhere near Luke until the search party arrives with Jaina Solo's body, and then you can talk to Luke about a second funeral," he turned to Wedge, "I guess maybe you should talk to Jag and warn him about the search,"
Wedge nodded, looking down, "I'll do that," he faced Sera, "I know this isn't the best news, but thank you Sera for your help,"
"You're welcome, Antilles," she replied, "Jaina and I -- we were friends, too. I loved her like a little sister; I know the feeling of loss and my condolences go to you and your family."
Wedge smiled, standing up, "Thank you, Sera. Excuse me." he concluded, leaving the conference room.
tbc
The Funeral
Chapter 4, Post 2
'Frozen In Time'
By obi's girl
I smiled, kissing Jaina one last time as she rested in my arms. We were both late for a staff meeting but since Jaina was a Goddess and had special privileges, we both had excuses to be late. I didn't mind. Life out there is harsh but staying with Jaina, things become a lot simpler and less complicated. Maybe that's the feeling of being in love, life seems less complicated.
"We really should get going," Jaina mumbled between kisses, "Even if we can afford to be late."
My smile lingered, "I can't believe you want to leave to attend a stuffy staff meeting rather than spend your free time here with me,"
She shrugged, "Everyone still needs me to put a front and do my duty. I can't ignore that because I'm pregnant and engaged, Jagged Fel,"
I kissed her nose, "I guess not. All right, we'll go...in a minute."
Jaina nodded, pushing me, "No, we'll go now, Colonel Fel. That's an order."
~~
As usual, I kept a distance away from Jaina, allowing her entry first into the briefing room. My Uncle was there, talking quietly to Gavin Darklighter. Jaina sat down first and then, I took a seat beside her next to Kyp. Kyp leaned over, "Glad you finally decided to join us, Fel."
I only rolled my eyes, ignoring him, glancing at Jaina. She relaxed in her chair, playing the part of the spoiled goddess. "What is this meeting that demands my time, Commander?"
Gavin smirked, "It's of top priority, your worship."
Jaina frowned, sensing something was off. She glanced around the table -- everyone was accounted for. Their minds were hiding something or were trying to hide something important. Jaina reached for me, grabbing hold of my hand as Leia appeared with wrapped gifts and C3P-0 with a cake. "What's this?" she cried.
"This is your engagement party," Leia replied, as C3P-0 set the cake on the table, "It would have been sooner but some of us couldn't quite decide which direction to take the party."
Jaina smiled, hugging her mother and C3P-0, "Thanks guys. Thank you so much."
"In times like these, an engagement is a wonderful thing and finding true love is very rare," Kyp said from behind. Jaina turned, smiling up at him and even surprised him with a hug, "Congratulations, Jaina."
"Thank you," she repeated, "Thank you."
"Gifts! Gifts! Gifts! Gifts!" Wedge chanted, hitting his fist against the table.
Jaina rolled her eyes, tugging my arm as she sat down again, taking one of the gifts aside. I smiled, sitting beside Jaina. Our engagement was supposed to be a secret but it's hard to keep a secret on such a small base because word eventually leaks around and someone finds out. But it didn't matter to me now; seeing the smile in Jaina's face was all that mattered.
Jaina unwrapped the tissue paper, removing the lid to the box. She could make out a silver frame but what was there, she didn't know. Jaina's smile lessoned as she removed the frame and realized it was a picture of herself with Jacen and Anakin, a year or two before the Vong war started.
"It's beautiful," she cried, fingering the frame as I picked up the card. It was from her parents of course, mostly from Leia. "I wish they were here. There's so much I'd want to tell them about my life and what's happened."
Wedge cleared his throat, standing up and handing his present to Jaina, "Giving this present is just pretense, Jaina...the real present for me, is getting to have you as a part of my family."
"You guys are so sweet," Jaina cried, "Stop it. You're making me want to be a girl and become emotional and all that crap." I smiled, patting her shoulder.
~~
Wish we were there too, Jaina, Jacen mused, watching her open her wedding gifts.
Anakin came up beside him, She looks nice; she looks happy,
Jacen grinned, staring at his sister's image, She does look happy doesn't she? Ya know, Kyp was right...about what he said. Finding true love is very rare, and it's obvious Jaina has found hers in Jag.
Let's just hope this one lasts. I'd hate to see Jaina hurt, Anakin mused, She deserves to be happy and to continue living her life.
~~
"You miss them don't you?" I asked, helping Jaina clean up the conference table and setting aside our wedding gifts. I had heard of Anakin's death on Myrkr and then of course, Jacen's disappearance, but when I heard one of Leia's children had died, my first thought was that it was Jaina herself.
Jaina shrugged, smiling a bit, "After Anakin died, I was angry with Jacen for leaving his body there. Jacen said he was just following Anakin's orders, but being as stubborn as I am, I saw it as a betrayal. But anger fades with time and eventually, I stopped being angry with Jacen. He was only following orders. Anakin wanted everyone to get out and get to safety, including Tahiri," Jaina paused, "I'll always miss Jacen and Anakin. They'd been there my whole life.and now, I think this is the one time they won't see me on the happiest day of my life. Or maybe they'll be watching."
I smiled, leaning over and kissing her cheek, "You're a good person, Jaina.I think we've both grown a lot since this war has started."
She frowned slightly, resting her hand on her stomach, "And now, we're going to bringing a child into a war-torn galaxy. Jag, I'm not so sure. The galaxy isn't a safe place now and probably won't be safe for a long time. It was hard enough when little Ben was born but for a girl, it can be very traumatizing."
I gently rubbed her back, smiling, "I know what you're saying Jaina, but I promise you, whatever happens, we will not abandon this child to fight out there. I wouldn't leave our daughter at home while we're both in a battle, halfway across the galaxy."
Jaina smiled again, kissing my cheek, "Then, I guess we're both lucky to have you as our protector," she paused again, "C'mon, we need to get these gifts back to the apartment."
~~
I smiled, leaning forward to kiss Jaina again as left the conference room. Normally, if we were in public, we wouldn't be this close. Everyone on the base was already familiar with the notion that Jaina was a Goddess for military reasons - to irritate the Vong - and everyone else was beneath her. I was beneath her since I was only a mortal, but ranks, titles - didn't really matter at that moment.
We weren't in a particular rush to get to the apartment but everyone else around us was running from one hall to another. Jaina picked up on their nervousness and became worried. "Something's happening, or about to happen," she mused, kissing my cheek one last time. She grabbed a lieutenant as he made his way down the hallway, "What's happening?"
The boy shrugged, "It's not a drill. Vong coral skippers have entered the system."
Jaina froze, looking into my eyes. Borealis was supposed to be a safe place, a haven but somehow, the Vong were able to penetrate our defenses. I leaned down and kissed her forehead, "Meet with my Uncle. Go, I'll put these away and meet you down there as soon as I can,"
"Are you sure?" she questioned, "What if I have to leave the ground before you reach the bay?"
I smiled, kissing her again, "In your condition, I don't think you'll have to. Just stay with Wedge until I get there." I kissed Jaina again before sprinting towards the apartment.
"I love you," she whispered but I was already gone before the words could reach me.
~~
"Jaina!" Wedge yelled as she entered the bay, "Where's Jag?"
Jaina shrugged, running over to him, "He ran real quickly back to the apartment to put the gifts away. He'll be here as soon as he can. How serious is the situation?"
Wedge directed her to a computer counsel, "Many of our fighters have been knocked out. Five in the last hour; it seems the Vong are becoming more familiar with our military tactics. We need to get you up as soon as possible,"
Jaina grabbed his arm as he turned, "I can't go up, Wedge. I can't explain it but I can't go up. I'm sorry."
"Can't go up? Jaina, we need you up there. The Vong haven't lost any skips since the dogfight started but we're rapidly loosing pilots and I sure as Hell don't want to fill out more 'death notices'."
"I understand that, Wedge but I can't go up. I just can't."
Wedge frowned, looking at Jaina, really looked at her, "Is it a Jedi thing? Have you sensed something about this battle we should know about?"
"No, I haven't -- I," Jaina paused, looking away from him and resting her hand on her stomach. She couldn't risk her child but she couldn't risk any more pilots being shot down. But then there was her promise to me to stay on the ground until I got there. "I, all right. I'm going up."
"But you just said you couldn't ---,"
Jaina turned to him, "Forget what I said. I'm Goddess and I have the right to change my mind. I'm going up, prepare my x-wing!"
~~
Jaina, no! Jacen shouted as he watched his sister suit up and climb into her x-wing. Jaina looked around curiously, thinking I made it after all but when she didn't see me, she shrugged, pulling on her helmet. The flight crew stood back as Jaina maneuvered her x-wing out of the bay and shot into space.
Wedge stood there, watching her disappear and then turned, still worried. The way Jaina acted, it was almost as if she was protecting someone or maybe herself. But Jaina herself knew she didn't need to be afraid if something happened. She was a Jedi Knight and a skilled pilot.
"Wedge? Where'd she go?" I asked, running up to my Uncle.
He shrugged, "Jaina just took off a few minutes ago. She was hesitant to leave but she changed her mind."
"She's out there?! In her condition..." I shrieked, darting towards my x- wing.
Wedge looked curiously at me, standing on the side on my x-wing. "Um Jag, you know Jaina can handle herself out there. She'll be fine,"
I nodded, "No, she won't be...It's complicated."
tbc
The Funeral
Chapter 4, Post 3
By obi's girl
"Sera Fey`lina," a voice said from behind her. Sera turned, expecting to see Gavin and listen to him warn her again not talk to Luke but she saw Kyp Durron instead. Sera smiled, greeting the Jedi Master. Sera had known Kyp Durron for a long time; she'd flown in his squadron before the war started. They were always very close but at times, Sera always wished he'd notice her and sweep her off her feet.
"Kyp," she said, "It's nice to see you. It's been a long time,"
Kyp smiled, "It has. What are you doing here?"
Sera froze, "I was in a conference with Gavin Darklighter and Wedge Antilles. It was mainly about military information, leaks - that sort of thing."
He nodded, "That's right. I forgot you're liaison between the Jedi and the military," he paused, smiling again, "Ya know, I've missed you."
"I missed you, too," Sera murmured, "But you know we've all been busy in this war, taken away to do something to help...and I can see, you've been called as well."
"Oh yes, Twin Suns Squadron. That squadron mine as well be abandoned anyway. We lost Jaina Solo, our leader and a squadron without a leader isn't a squadron. You heard about her?"
Sera frowned, "I have," she paused, facing him again. Sera had been in and out so much but she knew back before the war started, Kyp had a little crush on Solo, and she suspected he still had feelings for her which was why she couldn't tell him about her body. "Kyp, I'm sorry I'd love to catch up with you but I have to go."
"No, Sera wait!" he cried, grabbing hold of her arm, "I know you're probably busy but seeing you again, well, it's been a long time since I've seen a familiar face - I want to talk to you some more, maybe even get together sometime."
Sera looked at him curiously and smirked, "Get together sometimes? Is that an offer for a date, Durron?"
He smirked, "Maybe, Fey`lina."
"I'm free tomorrow. I'll be in the pilot's lounge. We can have lunch together."
Kyp smiled, kissing her cheek, "I'll see you then Fey`lina," and he left.
Sera rolled her eyes, walking down the opposite corridor.
Tbc
The Funeral
Chapter 4, Post 4
'The Last Breathe'
A/N: Two more chapters until Jaina's death! Finally, you all get to see what she went through during her last moments alive.
Ever have one of those feelings something was going to happen and that you would have no control over? I've been having that feeling all week, but I don't know what it is supposed to be.
C'mon, Jaina! Where are you? I cried, flying through wreckage and past several X-wings. Most of the skips had retreated but some of them still remained, but I didn't really care. I checked my scanner again for her X- wing signature and then looked again out my veiwport. If something happened to her.Stop, thinking that Fel, she's fine. She has to be fine, they're both fine. They have to be.
Jag. a voice crackled through his com.
I smiled, raising the volume, "Jaina, where are you?"
I'm.Sithspit! she cried. I froze, hearing several coral skippers shoot at her. She cursed again under her breath.
Jaina, what's happened? Are you all right?
I lost a wing but I think I can compensate. I'll be all right. she paused, looking at her scopes again. Five skips were right on top of her. Jaina froze, staring at them before they all fired at her. Jag.
Jaina! I cried, searching space for her x-wing. Many wings had gone down but it was still hard to spot Jaina's. Finally, I caught sight of one x- wing, spiraling towards the planet and a couple coral skippers watching it from behind. I scowled, gritting my teeth. How could they.? Jaina, our child.
Jag, what's happened? my Uncle asked via comlink. Tears stained my eyes as I stared at the spot where Jaina's x-wing spiraled out of control and crashed. If I were a Jedi, I would have been able to act quicker to rescue her from those skips. I would have sensed the danger and saved her. Jag? my Uncle repeated.
Man down, sir, I croaked, The Goddess, skips cornered her and shot her down.
Wedge was silent, probably conferring with Gavin Darklighter before he answered me again, Take your squadron and return to base.
What about Jaina's x-wing. Shouldn't we look for the Goddess?
I'm sorry Jag but it's too risky. Return to base. That's an order! Wedge concluded.
Tbc
The Funeral
Chapter 4, Post 5
By obi's girl
"You saw your cousins? How did that go?" Celeste asked as Jag walked around her office. She hadn't expected him to show up so soon for another appointment, but she was glad he came anyway.
Jag shrugged, turning to her, "It was nice and comforting. Before seeing Syal and Myri, I believed I was the only one hurting from Jaina's death. But then I realized I wasn't the only one. Other people were hurting too. That's why I saw Wedge that day drinking at the bar, he was grieving."
Celeste smiled, "It's good you realize you're not the only one. It's a step towards recovery."
"I thought if I would see Syal, I would feel bad for myself but I didn't. It made me feel better to see her, I guess, probably because it gave me hope. Does that make sense?"
She nodded, "Yes, it does. I have a question? Why would seeing your cousin make you feel bad about yourself?"
He shrugged, "I thought if I saw Syal, seeing her face would remind me of Cherith, my daughter. It did, but I didn't feel bad about it. And that's good, right?"
"Of course," Celeste paused, "Jag, this is wonderful. You're making so much progress in a short amount of time. It's nothing like I expected."
Jag smirked, "On my way over here, I was even thinking about going back to work. I know you're probably gonna say it's too soon but I think I can do it."
"It is too soon for that, Jag. I know you may think it'll help you but it's still too soon," Celeste soothed, "This idea of visiting with relatives is a good idea. I think it's time for you to talk to the Solo's. You were after all, very close to becoming their son-in-law."
"Talk to Han?" Jag murmured, "I don't know if I'm ready that. Besides, Han might blame me for Jaina's death and then I'd be right back to where I started."
Celeste shrugged, "What about Leia? She's understanding."
"I don't know...Leia was very supportive of us. But I don't know."
"You don't have to talk to them right away; it's just a suggestion," Celeste added, "So, we've talked about your cousins - what about your aunt and uncle? How did that go?"
Jag frowned, scratching his head, "I told them about Cherith. I felt since Jaina and I were very close to being married, they deserved to know about her. Iella was devastated but Wedge was there to comfort her. They both loved Jaina very much."
"Because they'd both known her since she was a child?"
"..and her brothers, too." Jag finished, "It was hard on everyone."
"What will happen now?" Celeste asked.
~~
"Search and secure," Gavin started as he stood in front of a prepared crew. Weeks earlier, he'd given Jag the chance to search for Jaina's body after the accident and now, he was looking for her body.again. Only this time, Jag didn't know about it and hopefully, he would never have to find out. "Look through all possible areas where Lieutenant Solo's x-wing could have wound up. I know many were shot down during that dogfight and we may not find her, but we have to try. Dismissed."
He watched as the each squad leader directed their men where to look and started to move out. Gavin gasped, he hoped they would be successful but he couldn't be sure of that. "Gavin?" Wedge asked.
"I don't want to be the one to bring Jaina home and tell Han and Leia they have to bury her all over again, Wedge," he cried, "It was hard enough for all of us the first time around, but a second time, it'd kill them."
Wedge smiled, though it was strained, "I know the feeling. But maybe we'll get lucky this time and we will find her, and we can give whoever we did bury a nice funeral and give her our proper respects," he paused, "I haven't talked to Jag. I was going to but then I realized if Jag knew, he'd be devastated."
"I heard he came over to your apartment last night and you guys talked," Gavin said, "That's good. It's good he's not cooped up,"
Wedge shrugged, "He came mainly to see his cousins and to talk to us. There was - it's a complicated situation; I wish I could explain it but Jag made me promise not to say anything,"
"That's fine. Whatever it is, good or bad news, I think it would just make the situation a lot worse than it already is,"
tbc
