EPILOGUE
Dagobah.
The moments seemed to disappear to days and weeks.
Obi-Wan was safely off-planet with the ex-Senator, the Head of Galactic Security, and the little green master. They waited. That's all they could do. Obi-Wan was outside, looking into the swampy abyss laid before him. The memories of the past few weeks played through his head.
Three Weeks Ago
Everyone began to file about the room, packing things and directing troops to follow suit.
Obi-Wan slipped his Jedi robes back on, only to stop short of breath, sensing the danger that was about to come. No. Please. Not now.
The living room exploded in a rain of blaster shots. Troops called out orders, opening fire on the door. The Jedi ignited their sabers in a flash, directing orders.
"Go," Ki-Adi stated to the Head of Galactic Security.
"Get Padmé outta here, now!" Obi-Wan demanded.
"But–" Padmé tried to say.
He turned to look at her. The intensity in his eyes said everything. He wasn't about ready to put her life on the line, especially in her condition. Though he was still weak, he knew she had to be attended to first. Bail grabbed Padmé and directed her out on the balcony, a set of troops and the little green master sitting on his hoverchair, close behind.
Obi-Wan turned to look at the other two Jedi next to him. He caught his breath, sensing what was going to happen next. He began to shake his head. "No...."
Go, Obi-Wan. Your priority is not here. Ki-Adi said.
But, Master– Obi-Wan began.
You heard him, Master Obi-Wan. Go. May the Force be with you. Plo announced.
Obi-Wan looked at the two Jedi again, nodded and turned away, bolting out the balcony door, nearly running the protocol droid down.
"Hey, don't leave me here," 3PO cried. "I am not meant to be placed in such war-like situations, General Kenobi."
Obi-Wan huffed, grabbing the droid as he made the descend down the stairs. The protocol droid rambled on in his grasp. By the time he hit the last step, the room exploded, glass shattering. Flames erupted. He fell to his knees, catching his breath. Go in peace, Master Koon. Master Ki-Adi.
Bail grabbed him, as they bursted into a run. He took a position close to Padmé. Bail was to the other side. Yoda directed the front with the high rank troopers, while two other soldiers carried the astromech droid. Jar Jar held a blaster, clumsily in his arms.
"Everyone on post, now. Don't leave any gaps open," Obi-Wan directed.
"Yes, sir." the captain nodded.
"This is madness!" 3PO complained. "We shouldn't be out here in the opening. It is far–"
Obi-Wan directed one of the troops to shut him down, carrying him the rest of the way. He turned back, to see no one was following suit.
"Well, I guess you weren't kidding about this on-the-field action, now did you, General Kenobi?" Bail managed a smile, trying to lighten the tension in the group.
"Nice, Bail. But this isn't the time." Obi-Wan pushed him forward.
The team ran into the walkway, and into the turbo-lift that would take them off-planet.
They made it to the transport as blaster shots came their way. Troops fell left and right.
Everything seemed to slow down around Obi-Wan. The entire team ran into the comfort of the ship–all except Obi-Wan. Everyone called out to him, but he couldn't seem to hear them. None of them. He turned away. Blaster shots ran past him, clouds of smoke filled the air. And that's when he saw him. Saw the man that haunted his dreams, physically for the first time. The darkness and evil running through every vein in his body. The masked man's steps echoed in Obi-Wan's mind.
"Obi-Wan," the masked man breathed slowly. "I will destroy you for what you did."
Obi-Wan turned, slowly retreating toward the safety of the ship. His steps grew heavy, as he fell to the ground. He turned back, to see the masked man in pursuit, red lightsaber, blazing. Blaster shots rained down on him, drawing him back. Back-up troops called in from the Temple came from the distance, drawing enemy fire the other way. Obi-Wan darted up the ramp, as the ship took to the air.
It disappeared into the sky, and off planet.
Darth Vader watched, without saying a word. A new line of fury filled his veins.
Obi-Wan's arms were crossed over his chest. He took in several deep breaths. "Well, as far as I could tell, Master, this is far from over. I fear that things will only get worse. But somewhere deep in my mind, I feel there is still hope left for this galaxy. But so many people, Master. So many dead. So many to save. So many I can't." Tears streaked his face. "I just wish that you were here. Here to comfort me. Who is there left to comfort me?"
He shuddered again. Looking into the distance. He saw the memories, good and bad. His entire life flashed before his eyes. He didn't turn it away. Not now. He didn't want to run anymore. The pain inside him was burning bright. But, he didn't want to fight it anymore. He had to let it go.
He returned to the hut. Fatigue ran across the Head of Galactic Security's face. He went on sleepless nights, much like Obi-Wan. They looked like time had finally caught up with their age. They greeted each other with a simple nod.
He crept over to the other room where the young woman slept, soundly. Yoda was at her side, humming softly. Two bundles laid in the young woman's arms. Obi-Wan greeted the old Jedi Master with a bow. He took a seat, just as the other Jedi left the room. Yoda knew the two wanted to be alone.
Obi-Wan looked at the young woman, soundlessly. He gently caressed her cheek. The two babies in her arms stirred, as if sensing the presence of the man.
Luke and Leia Skywalker. The new hope for the galaxy.
The babies cried quietly, as the woman holding them stirred. She turned, opening her eyes to meet those of the Jedi. He managed a smile. She returned one.
"Hey." she said.
"Hey. How are you feeling?" He asked, gently.
"A little exhausted. But other than that, I'm fine. Would you like to hold them?"
He caught his breath. He was never good with babies. Every time he held one, they'd cry instantly. Yet, there was a calmness in these two. They were strong in the Force. Obi-Wan sensed it the moment they came into the world. The moment he witnessed their birth. The new hope of the galaxy was born, only hours ago.
She sat up, slowly setting the two newborns into the elder man's arms. He looked at the two, their eyes were shut, falling into a deep slumber. He chuckled, as Luke kicked furiously at the blanket wrapped around him. Leia's small arms stretched and fell back to the comfort of the blanket.
Padmé smiled again. "They like you."
"I was never good with children," Obi-Wan admitted.
"Well, they don't seem to hate your company."
He handed Leia back over to Padmé, taking Luke protectively into his arms. "I will watch over him. You have my word, Padmé."
Days later.
A small starcruiser awaited for those who were seeking passage to Alderaan.
Obi-Wan held the baby boy in his arms. Yoda stood beside him.
"Well, this is it." Bail stated as a form of good-bye.
Obi-Wan nodded. "I guess so. Thank you, my friend."
"No. Thank you, Ben. I don't think this galaxy would of been anything without you or the help of the Jedi." Bail grasped his friend in a hug, then turned away.
Obi-Wan turned to the young woman, the baby girl in her arms. There was some hesitation, some confusion. He kissed her gently on the forehead. "Be careful. Stay safe, Padmé."
"And you, Ben," she returned the gesture, slipping Anakin's lightsaber into his hand. "You have done so much for me already. And I am truly grateful to have such a great friend. Truly grateful to know you'll always be there."
Obi-Wan looked at the lightsaber with some confusion. "I can't accept–"
Padmé shook her head in denial. "No. Take it. You will need it more than me. Promise me you will give it to Luke when the time is right."
He nodded. "I will. Your personality is truly one of a kind."
He laid a kiss atop Leia's forehead. "May the Force guide you always, Leia."
She turned to the little green master. A wide smile to his face.
"A pleasure it was to have you in our company, young Padmé," Yoda bowed.
"And you, Master Jedi" she smiled. "I am grateful for all that you've done for me. And I will never forget all you've done."
He bowed again. "Always here we will be."
She smiled, gave one final good-bye and turned with Bail toward the ship.
Obi-Wan and Yoda watched as the ship disappeared into the sky. As soon as the ship left, a silence fell over the two Jedi.
"Go, you must, Obi-Wan."
"Yes, Master." Obi-Wan nodded. "May the Force be with you."
"And with you always, Obi-Wan Kenobi. I will always be here, waiting and guiding."
Obi-Wan bowed and left.
Two days later.
Tatooine.
"The only place Anakin would never bare to go back to," Obi-Wan said, as he entered the spaceport.
He was wrapped in a cloak, carrying something hidden in the comfort of it. He had made his final good-bye to Padmé, Bail and Yoda a few days ago. Yoda stayed in the comfort of Dagobah. Bail promised refuge for Padmé and her daughter. He went to Tatooine with the boy. Alone. On a desert planet.
He took a transport out to the desert, coming to stop at a lone moisture farm. The Lars Homestead. He had grown close to the two, especially after Owen's father died nearly a year ago. He had witnessed the marriage, when he was called briefly to discuss a dispute with the Hutts. Yet, there was still tension in the younger man about having a Jedi like Obi-Wan around. The young man had blamed the Jedi for the lost of Anakin. For the loss of his step-brother, whom he barely knew and wanted to get to know. Now, he would never get that chance.
Obi-Wan had informed to two of his arrival, and of the news about Owen's step-brother. But he had not mentioned about the favor he sought from them. A young woman came to greet the Jedi as he headed for the door.
"Hello, Obi-Wan." Beru greeted.
He bowed. "I apologize for the informal entrance, Beru. But I must ask of a favor from you and your husband."
"Of course, Obi-Wan." she bowed. "We'll help in anyway needed."
"Beru? Who is it?" Owen called out, as he came from the door.
A silence fell over the three, as the young man met the Jedi in the eyes.
"What is he doing here?" Owen turned away.
"Please. If I may have a moment, Owen," Obi-Wan said, slowly. He pulled open his cloak, and stepped forward. Luke slept soundly in his arms. "I would like to present to you, the heir to the Skywalker line, Luke. But I also want you to take him and raise him as your own. As a request from Padmé Skywalker herself."
The two were appalled, as Beru took the baby into her arms. "You're sure about this? I mean.." she began.
He held up a hand. "For him to learn of the Jedi ways? No. Only when I feel he is ready."
Owen looked at the boy in his wife's arms, then turned back to the Jedi. "When he is ready? So he can go with you on some crazy idealistic crusade to try and save the Republic, Obi-Wan? I don't think so. Not after what happened to Anakin." Owen huffed. "I don't want him to follow in his father's footsteps. Nor do I want him to find out what has become of him. However, I am willing to make you a deal. We'll take him and raise him, but only if you don't come by here spreading that Jedi nonsense around him. You can visit, if you so desire, but I don't want him to know anything about this Jedi religion of yours."
"Owen, don't," Beru pleaded.
"Done," Obi-Wan bowed, with no hesitation. "I don't want anymore trouble, Owen. So, all I ask is you follow my request."
"What?!" Owen was surprised.
Obi-Wan let out a sigh. "It's no use trying to argue against something I cannot win. Just promise me you will raise him well."
Owen and Beru nodded.
Obi-Wan placed a hand on Luke's head and kissed it gently. "May the Force be with you always, Luke." He bowed and left.
Three years.
Ben Kenobi no longer went by the name of 'Obi-Wan', fearing it would bring back some painful memories of his past. Many locals looked at him as a crazed lunatic in the cloak, hiding away his true identity. Though, his ranks as a Jedi were no longer in effect, he would never forget what he knew and was capable of doing, especially on a planet such as the one he was on. His Jedi tricks and ingenuity were all that could help him to survive. He even earned the title of "crazy ol' hermit" or "Old Ben." It didn't bother him much, because what was done was done.
Ben had watched from the distance. Watched as Owen and Beru Lars raised the boy. He felt it was best to not get involved in the boy's life as some distant relative. He found ways to entertain crowds with his "ancient, sorcery" magic. It didn't bother him much, with the locals only knowing him Ben. He didn't want his past to spread across the desolate planet. And he knew it would do him no good, anyways.
He lived alone. Always did. Didn't think much about love. Didn't think much about his past. He knew of only so few, and he didn't want to give it away or lose another in the process. He still held a lot of pain in his heart. In his mind. Many nights he'd sit outside his hut and look at the stars. In the day, he'd go out to the canyons and meditate. He reflected. Living out the rest of his days, slowly.
Ben sat in his hut, alone. He sat back, watching the small holo-camera that would relay one final message to Alderaan. He had made many brief messages to keep Padmé and Bail informed of his status and the boy's. But he felt, that this was going to have to be the last. He couldn't risk it anymore.
He turned it on. "I must be brief and apologize, but this will be the last message I will relay to you. I have greatly been under the impression that the Empire is still in search for any living Jedi, I myself included, is still in grave danger. Much of the Republic has been destroyed by the Empire, and as far as I could tell, most of the Jedi have ceased to exist. And I cannot risk anymore communications for the safety of us all. I must say this, Luke is doing quite well with his aunt and uncle. And I am sure he will grow up to be a fine man. Just recently, I saw him run about the homestead having a great time. He has much energy like his father. As for myself, I am doing fine, as well. Don't worry about me. I'll be fine and I hope Leia is fine. She has so much energy, too. I can feel their strong bond through the Force, sensing that they miss each other greatly. Very little can be said except I know they won't let any of us down. Send my regards to everyone there, Bail. There is still hope for this galaxy. I have no doubt about that anymore. Stay safe. Stay strong. And may the Force be with you always."
Bail sat in the comfort of his office. Sweat beat down his face in a nervous panic. He had many sleepness nights, feeling the Empire breathe down his back immensely. He wasn't sure how safe his security was on- planet. It wasn't like that found on Coruscant, but it still had its power. He watched as the final message was replayed by his friend, Ben Kenobi. He clicked on his own holo-cam. "Greetings, old friend. All is well here, as you would expect. Both Padmé and Leia are doing fine. Do not think of this any other way, or taken an offense to this, but I have falling in love with Padmé. I know. Someone like me, who by all means told myself, I would never fall in love, has. Well, you proved me wrong, buddy. I did. And in the process of the next few weeks, I will be marrying her. But, of course, I will not forgot the first priority in maintaining her safety or the child. Yes, I do see it, too. Leia has much of her mother's characteristics. No doubt do I see her in the position of politics. She would make a great leader, as I assume, Luke will become a great Jedi Knight–just as you have become. Padmé does send out her wishes to you. Thank you again, Ben, for all you have done. Your service has been more than enough for myself, Padmé and the galaxy. May the Force be with you always."
Yoda sat in his hut, meditating. He saw the light at the end of the tunnel. Of new beginnings. Of ends. A new hope for a crumbling galaxy would do more than what was permitted of them. He opened his eyes, and looked toward the ceiling. A smile to his face. "Train them well, Obi-Wan will. The future is always in motion, but a good sense of happiness I see in us all. The Force is strong in the Skywalker line, but not of true evil it really is. Only confusion. Never give up hope, Obi-Wan. Guide us all into a brighter future the Force will. Guide us in everything we do. Strong the Force is in those who never stop believing in hope."
THE END
{[[==][===][==][[]]
A FLYPSYDE PRYDE PRODUCTIONS
Dagobah.
The moments seemed to disappear to days and weeks.
Obi-Wan was safely off-planet with the ex-Senator, the Head of Galactic Security, and the little green master. They waited. That's all they could do. Obi-Wan was outside, looking into the swampy abyss laid before him. The memories of the past few weeks played through his head.
Three Weeks Ago
Everyone began to file about the room, packing things and directing troops to follow suit.
Obi-Wan slipped his Jedi robes back on, only to stop short of breath, sensing the danger that was about to come. No. Please. Not now.
The living room exploded in a rain of blaster shots. Troops called out orders, opening fire on the door. The Jedi ignited their sabers in a flash, directing orders.
"Go," Ki-Adi stated to the Head of Galactic Security.
"Get Padmé outta here, now!" Obi-Wan demanded.
"But–" Padmé tried to say.
He turned to look at her. The intensity in his eyes said everything. He wasn't about ready to put her life on the line, especially in her condition. Though he was still weak, he knew she had to be attended to first. Bail grabbed Padmé and directed her out on the balcony, a set of troops and the little green master sitting on his hoverchair, close behind.
Obi-Wan turned to look at the other two Jedi next to him. He caught his breath, sensing what was going to happen next. He began to shake his head. "No...."
Go, Obi-Wan. Your priority is not here. Ki-Adi said.
But, Master– Obi-Wan began.
You heard him, Master Obi-Wan. Go. May the Force be with you. Plo announced.
Obi-Wan looked at the two Jedi again, nodded and turned away, bolting out the balcony door, nearly running the protocol droid down.
"Hey, don't leave me here," 3PO cried. "I am not meant to be placed in such war-like situations, General Kenobi."
Obi-Wan huffed, grabbing the droid as he made the descend down the stairs. The protocol droid rambled on in his grasp. By the time he hit the last step, the room exploded, glass shattering. Flames erupted. He fell to his knees, catching his breath. Go in peace, Master Koon. Master Ki-Adi.
Bail grabbed him, as they bursted into a run. He took a position close to Padmé. Bail was to the other side. Yoda directed the front with the high rank troopers, while two other soldiers carried the astromech droid. Jar Jar held a blaster, clumsily in his arms.
"Everyone on post, now. Don't leave any gaps open," Obi-Wan directed.
"Yes, sir." the captain nodded.
"This is madness!" 3PO complained. "We shouldn't be out here in the opening. It is far–"
Obi-Wan directed one of the troops to shut him down, carrying him the rest of the way. He turned back, to see no one was following suit.
"Well, I guess you weren't kidding about this on-the-field action, now did you, General Kenobi?" Bail managed a smile, trying to lighten the tension in the group.
"Nice, Bail. But this isn't the time." Obi-Wan pushed him forward.
The team ran into the walkway, and into the turbo-lift that would take them off-planet.
They made it to the transport as blaster shots came their way. Troops fell left and right.
Everything seemed to slow down around Obi-Wan. The entire team ran into the comfort of the ship–all except Obi-Wan. Everyone called out to him, but he couldn't seem to hear them. None of them. He turned away. Blaster shots ran past him, clouds of smoke filled the air. And that's when he saw him. Saw the man that haunted his dreams, physically for the first time. The darkness and evil running through every vein in his body. The masked man's steps echoed in Obi-Wan's mind.
"Obi-Wan," the masked man breathed slowly. "I will destroy you for what you did."
Obi-Wan turned, slowly retreating toward the safety of the ship. His steps grew heavy, as he fell to the ground. He turned back, to see the masked man in pursuit, red lightsaber, blazing. Blaster shots rained down on him, drawing him back. Back-up troops called in from the Temple came from the distance, drawing enemy fire the other way. Obi-Wan darted up the ramp, as the ship took to the air.
It disappeared into the sky, and off planet.
Darth Vader watched, without saying a word. A new line of fury filled his veins.
Obi-Wan's arms were crossed over his chest. He took in several deep breaths. "Well, as far as I could tell, Master, this is far from over. I fear that things will only get worse. But somewhere deep in my mind, I feel there is still hope left for this galaxy. But so many people, Master. So many dead. So many to save. So many I can't." Tears streaked his face. "I just wish that you were here. Here to comfort me. Who is there left to comfort me?"
He shuddered again. Looking into the distance. He saw the memories, good and bad. His entire life flashed before his eyes. He didn't turn it away. Not now. He didn't want to run anymore. The pain inside him was burning bright. But, he didn't want to fight it anymore. He had to let it go.
He returned to the hut. Fatigue ran across the Head of Galactic Security's face. He went on sleepless nights, much like Obi-Wan. They looked like time had finally caught up with their age. They greeted each other with a simple nod.
He crept over to the other room where the young woman slept, soundly. Yoda was at her side, humming softly. Two bundles laid in the young woman's arms. Obi-Wan greeted the old Jedi Master with a bow. He took a seat, just as the other Jedi left the room. Yoda knew the two wanted to be alone.
Obi-Wan looked at the young woman, soundlessly. He gently caressed her cheek. The two babies in her arms stirred, as if sensing the presence of the man.
Luke and Leia Skywalker. The new hope for the galaxy.
The babies cried quietly, as the woman holding them stirred. She turned, opening her eyes to meet those of the Jedi. He managed a smile. She returned one.
"Hey." she said.
"Hey. How are you feeling?" He asked, gently.
"A little exhausted. But other than that, I'm fine. Would you like to hold them?"
He caught his breath. He was never good with babies. Every time he held one, they'd cry instantly. Yet, there was a calmness in these two. They were strong in the Force. Obi-Wan sensed it the moment they came into the world. The moment he witnessed their birth. The new hope of the galaxy was born, only hours ago.
She sat up, slowly setting the two newborns into the elder man's arms. He looked at the two, their eyes were shut, falling into a deep slumber. He chuckled, as Luke kicked furiously at the blanket wrapped around him. Leia's small arms stretched and fell back to the comfort of the blanket.
Padmé smiled again. "They like you."
"I was never good with children," Obi-Wan admitted.
"Well, they don't seem to hate your company."
He handed Leia back over to Padmé, taking Luke protectively into his arms. "I will watch over him. You have my word, Padmé."
Days later.
A small starcruiser awaited for those who were seeking passage to Alderaan.
Obi-Wan held the baby boy in his arms. Yoda stood beside him.
"Well, this is it." Bail stated as a form of good-bye.
Obi-Wan nodded. "I guess so. Thank you, my friend."
"No. Thank you, Ben. I don't think this galaxy would of been anything without you or the help of the Jedi." Bail grasped his friend in a hug, then turned away.
Obi-Wan turned to the young woman, the baby girl in her arms. There was some hesitation, some confusion. He kissed her gently on the forehead. "Be careful. Stay safe, Padmé."
"And you, Ben," she returned the gesture, slipping Anakin's lightsaber into his hand. "You have done so much for me already. And I am truly grateful to have such a great friend. Truly grateful to know you'll always be there."
Obi-Wan looked at the lightsaber with some confusion. "I can't accept–"
Padmé shook her head in denial. "No. Take it. You will need it more than me. Promise me you will give it to Luke when the time is right."
He nodded. "I will. Your personality is truly one of a kind."
He laid a kiss atop Leia's forehead. "May the Force guide you always, Leia."
She turned to the little green master. A wide smile to his face.
"A pleasure it was to have you in our company, young Padmé," Yoda bowed.
"And you, Master Jedi" she smiled. "I am grateful for all that you've done for me. And I will never forget all you've done."
He bowed again. "Always here we will be."
She smiled, gave one final good-bye and turned with Bail toward the ship.
Obi-Wan and Yoda watched as the ship disappeared into the sky. As soon as the ship left, a silence fell over the two Jedi.
"Go, you must, Obi-Wan."
"Yes, Master." Obi-Wan nodded. "May the Force be with you."
"And with you always, Obi-Wan Kenobi. I will always be here, waiting and guiding."
Obi-Wan bowed and left.
Two days later.
Tatooine.
"The only place Anakin would never bare to go back to," Obi-Wan said, as he entered the spaceport.
He was wrapped in a cloak, carrying something hidden in the comfort of it. He had made his final good-bye to Padmé, Bail and Yoda a few days ago. Yoda stayed in the comfort of Dagobah. Bail promised refuge for Padmé and her daughter. He went to Tatooine with the boy. Alone. On a desert planet.
He took a transport out to the desert, coming to stop at a lone moisture farm. The Lars Homestead. He had grown close to the two, especially after Owen's father died nearly a year ago. He had witnessed the marriage, when he was called briefly to discuss a dispute with the Hutts. Yet, there was still tension in the younger man about having a Jedi like Obi-Wan around. The young man had blamed the Jedi for the lost of Anakin. For the loss of his step-brother, whom he barely knew and wanted to get to know. Now, he would never get that chance.
Obi-Wan had informed to two of his arrival, and of the news about Owen's step-brother. But he had not mentioned about the favor he sought from them. A young woman came to greet the Jedi as he headed for the door.
"Hello, Obi-Wan." Beru greeted.
He bowed. "I apologize for the informal entrance, Beru. But I must ask of a favor from you and your husband."
"Of course, Obi-Wan." she bowed. "We'll help in anyway needed."
"Beru? Who is it?" Owen called out, as he came from the door.
A silence fell over the three, as the young man met the Jedi in the eyes.
"What is he doing here?" Owen turned away.
"Please. If I may have a moment, Owen," Obi-Wan said, slowly. He pulled open his cloak, and stepped forward. Luke slept soundly in his arms. "I would like to present to you, the heir to the Skywalker line, Luke. But I also want you to take him and raise him as your own. As a request from Padmé Skywalker herself."
The two were appalled, as Beru took the baby into her arms. "You're sure about this? I mean.." she began.
He held up a hand. "For him to learn of the Jedi ways? No. Only when I feel he is ready."
Owen looked at the boy in his wife's arms, then turned back to the Jedi. "When he is ready? So he can go with you on some crazy idealistic crusade to try and save the Republic, Obi-Wan? I don't think so. Not after what happened to Anakin." Owen huffed. "I don't want him to follow in his father's footsteps. Nor do I want him to find out what has become of him. However, I am willing to make you a deal. We'll take him and raise him, but only if you don't come by here spreading that Jedi nonsense around him. You can visit, if you so desire, but I don't want him to know anything about this Jedi religion of yours."
"Owen, don't," Beru pleaded.
"Done," Obi-Wan bowed, with no hesitation. "I don't want anymore trouble, Owen. So, all I ask is you follow my request."
"What?!" Owen was surprised.
Obi-Wan let out a sigh. "It's no use trying to argue against something I cannot win. Just promise me you will raise him well."
Owen and Beru nodded.
Obi-Wan placed a hand on Luke's head and kissed it gently. "May the Force be with you always, Luke." He bowed and left.
Three years.
Ben Kenobi no longer went by the name of 'Obi-Wan', fearing it would bring back some painful memories of his past. Many locals looked at him as a crazed lunatic in the cloak, hiding away his true identity. Though, his ranks as a Jedi were no longer in effect, he would never forget what he knew and was capable of doing, especially on a planet such as the one he was on. His Jedi tricks and ingenuity were all that could help him to survive. He even earned the title of "crazy ol' hermit" or "Old Ben." It didn't bother him much, because what was done was done.
Ben had watched from the distance. Watched as Owen and Beru Lars raised the boy. He felt it was best to not get involved in the boy's life as some distant relative. He found ways to entertain crowds with his "ancient, sorcery" magic. It didn't bother him much, with the locals only knowing him Ben. He didn't want his past to spread across the desolate planet. And he knew it would do him no good, anyways.
He lived alone. Always did. Didn't think much about love. Didn't think much about his past. He knew of only so few, and he didn't want to give it away or lose another in the process. He still held a lot of pain in his heart. In his mind. Many nights he'd sit outside his hut and look at the stars. In the day, he'd go out to the canyons and meditate. He reflected. Living out the rest of his days, slowly.
Ben sat in his hut, alone. He sat back, watching the small holo-camera that would relay one final message to Alderaan. He had made many brief messages to keep Padmé and Bail informed of his status and the boy's. But he felt, that this was going to have to be the last. He couldn't risk it anymore.
He turned it on. "I must be brief and apologize, but this will be the last message I will relay to you. I have greatly been under the impression that the Empire is still in search for any living Jedi, I myself included, is still in grave danger. Much of the Republic has been destroyed by the Empire, and as far as I could tell, most of the Jedi have ceased to exist. And I cannot risk anymore communications for the safety of us all. I must say this, Luke is doing quite well with his aunt and uncle. And I am sure he will grow up to be a fine man. Just recently, I saw him run about the homestead having a great time. He has much energy like his father. As for myself, I am doing fine, as well. Don't worry about me. I'll be fine and I hope Leia is fine. She has so much energy, too. I can feel their strong bond through the Force, sensing that they miss each other greatly. Very little can be said except I know they won't let any of us down. Send my regards to everyone there, Bail. There is still hope for this galaxy. I have no doubt about that anymore. Stay safe. Stay strong. And may the Force be with you always."
Bail sat in the comfort of his office. Sweat beat down his face in a nervous panic. He had many sleepness nights, feeling the Empire breathe down his back immensely. He wasn't sure how safe his security was on- planet. It wasn't like that found on Coruscant, but it still had its power. He watched as the final message was replayed by his friend, Ben Kenobi. He clicked on his own holo-cam. "Greetings, old friend. All is well here, as you would expect. Both Padmé and Leia are doing fine. Do not think of this any other way, or taken an offense to this, but I have falling in love with Padmé. I know. Someone like me, who by all means told myself, I would never fall in love, has. Well, you proved me wrong, buddy. I did. And in the process of the next few weeks, I will be marrying her. But, of course, I will not forgot the first priority in maintaining her safety or the child. Yes, I do see it, too. Leia has much of her mother's characteristics. No doubt do I see her in the position of politics. She would make a great leader, as I assume, Luke will become a great Jedi Knight–just as you have become. Padmé does send out her wishes to you. Thank you again, Ben, for all you have done. Your service has been more than enough for myself, Padmé and the galaxy. May the Force be with you always."
Yoda sat in his hut, meditating. He saw the light at the end of the tunnel. Of new beginnings. Of ends. A new hope for a crumbling galaxy would do more than what was permitted of them. He opened his eyes, and looked toward the ceiling. A smile to his face. "Train them well, Obi-Wan will. The future is always in motion, but a good sense of happiness I see in us all. The Force is strong in the Skywalker line, but not of true evil it really is. Only confusion. Never give up hope, Obi-Wan. Guide us all into a brighter future the Force will. Guide us in everything we do. Strong the Force is in those who never stop believing in hope."
THE END
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