Leia tucked her hair behind an ear, still adjusting to feel of it falling about her shoulders, and scanned the street around her. They were arriving on Eloira at the end of tourist season. Ysper was supposed to be a quiet town settling in for the colder months but there were more people than she expected. Wondering in and out of shops, dining in cafés, talking on the walkway. Leia thought about pulling her hood up to shield her face but knew it would look suspicious. She needed to remember that a Sgoonan couple visiting friends had no reason to hide.
Han put his hand on her lower back, gently steering her past a group of women existing a bakery and then around a corner.
"Do you know where you're going?"
"Know how to read a map." He kept his eyes on the street in front of them.
She felt cautious, protective, and her hand instinctively went to her stomach, smoothing down her dress. Han grinned when he noticed her slightly protruding stomach, letting his thumb trail along her spine, and Leia looked away to avoid his I told you so smile.
He had developed an annoying habit over the past month. Every morning, he sidled close to her in their bunk and placed a hand on her abdomen, insisting he could feel a difference. There was definitely a bump. Definitely bigger than the night before.
"Really." Her regular response was to sigh and run her fingers through his sleep-tussled hair. "You think there's been a change in the last six hours?"
"Maybe I'm more observant than you."
"Because I won't notice what's happening to my body."
"I've made it my mission to closely observe everything about your body. Bound to notice a difference before you."
As soon as the bump was noticeable, he switched up his routine and added a small kiss and good morning to the baby. Sometimes even before he kissed her. So, yes, annoying, but also sweet.
It had been the three of them—her, Han and Chewie—aboard the Falcon for far too many weeks. They landed for supplies when needed but no place felt right to stay for any length of time. Nosta looked promising—lots of space to keep their distance from neighbors who also wanted privacy—but Han worried medical assistance would be difficult to find and Chewie recognized bounty hunters in the town square. In the end, they decided it wasn't smart to hide where beings might come looking so they kept on the move.
She still hadn't spoken directly to Rieekan, only messages back and forth with sometimes days in-between. His first update was worrying, though not unexpected. Rebel losses were high with many still unaccounted for, including Luke who left a message about taking a detour. Only Rieekan and Mon knew she had made contact, though he did relay the information Leia learned from Jorga to Madine. Even if everyone else thought she was missing in action, they still needed to investigate the attempts on her life and the Alliance leak.
"Mesry grew agitated when Madine interrogated him but didn't reveal anything new." Rieekan sounded stressed, exhausted. She knew they must be working non-stop to get the fleet reassembled and a fresh wave of guilt washed over her. "He was mostly concerned that this being, Second, didn't think he had talked. Wanted Second to know he was loyal."
It was their first real lead and Leia did not want to hear about another dead-end. She needed this issue solved. It's all she wanted to talk about those first few days back in flight. Who might it be? Second to what or who? Did they call themselves Second or was it a nickname bestowed by others? Was it someone in the Alliance or controlling Alliance agents? From what Jorga read on the message boards, before they were shut down, she thought the posters were both in awe of and frightened of this Second in equal measure. Han was happy to talk it through, he wanted this solved as much as she did. Chewie, however, quickly lost interest the discussion.
[The only thing we know is there's someone more dangerous than the assassins.]
After that, whenever she started up again, Chewie left the room.
Leia expected some friction while confined to the Falcon for an indeterminate, and also seemingly never-ending, amount of time but expected it to be her and Han. It was a surprise for all of them when it was Chewie who butted heads with her. They didn't fight—they got along, of course, they got along—but they always seemed to be in each other's way. Spoke in clipped sentences that were both polite and wary. It was the opposite of the relationship they shared up until that point, which had been open and trusting, warm. Logically, she could see what was happening on her end. Everything around her was changing, she was changing, and so much felt beyond her control. Unfortunately, that awareness was doing little to fix the situation.
It didn't help that she was often startled by her own reflection. She knew cutting her hair was the wise move considering their circumstances, knew it would be a difficult thing to adjust to, but she didn't look like Bail and Breha's daughter anymore. She tried pulling it back, putting it in small braids, but it felt false. It wasn't Alderaanian tradition. So she let it hang around her shoulders, sometimes pinning back if she had work to do, and told herself that this too was temporary.
Han was fixated on getting her to a med center to make sure everything was on track but it wasn't her top priority. Her holonet searches told her to prepare for swelling and stretch marks. The baby kicking, pressing against organs. Sore back and legs. It was all unavoidable and she felt fine at the moment so why worry. She would know if anything was wrong. He argued that it was essentially prep work, and she loved prep work, but Leia refused to budge. She needed to focus on the rebellion, if not finding out more about Second and the plot against her, and she was feeling remarkably ineffectual in that regard.
She was lost without meetings and missions so she assigned herself duties. She reorganized their cabin three times. The galley so she could easily reach bowls and tea. The cabinets in the lounge filled with loose equipment and random tools. She could understand why Chewie thought that one was out of bounds, it wasn't her equipment or tools so not her concern, but patience had never been her strong suit.
After a few such projects and things going missing because they didn't understand her improved cataloguing system, Chewie was more willing to express his irritation. Offered sarcastic comments like the Rebellion's closets must be a mess since she's been gone. Stared at her with crossed arms, looking like he couldn't believe he had to put up with this shit, whenever she suggested another fix for the ship. For her part, she stared right back if she felt the need. Didn't go out of her way to irritate him but also didn't tip toe around him.
Han's only response was to remind her it was never a good idea to poke a Wookiee.
"Weren't you trained for this kind of stuff? Expert negotiator and all that."
But she didn't know what was negotiating for. For Chewie to accept that she wasn't going away? For her to forgive herself for abandoning High Command? Han thought her problem was she didn't understand the in-between. Even when her entire world was destroyed she knew what to do. Push forward. Organize the attack above Yavin. Then evacuate, regroup, and repeat. But this blank slate of what was happening next, so many unknowns, was hard to process, especially when mixed with feeling truly happy, excited about the baby, content.
They stopped in front of a building with no windows. Grey stone with only a solid wood door and a hand-painted and peeling sign, Hartlen's Tavern, above it. Leia played with her ring, spinning it on her finger with her thumb, feeling suddenly nervous about this less than welcoming façade. Han took her hand, lacing their fingers together so their rings touched. Another new and annoying habit he had was not letting her sit too long in her stress if he could help it. Or at least remind her he was there when she needed him. Impossible man.
Still holding her hand, Han led her to the side of the building. She heard the steady hum of talking and laughing before they reached the gate. The patio was filled with diners. Parents with children, small groups, and couples. A woman cleared a table, loading dirty dishes on to a tray, as two young girls ran past her and back into the building.
Leia gave herself a moment to take it all in. Everything felt… more. She didn't know how else to describe it. Intense, maybe. The colors were brighter. Lines sharper. She could smell something coming from inside the building, lingering odors from the kitchen. Something hearty. Was hearty a smell? She didn't think it was the pregnancy. Odors still got to her occasionally, and there was a sometimes quick rotation of likes and dislikes, but this was something else.
Han gave her hand a light squeeze. "Ready?"
She couldn't answer that question. Ready for what? She didn't know this planet and the information she did have was clearly out of date. She didn't know Aendi and Dix. Didn't know if it was wise to trust another of Han's ex-girlfriends. She usually relied on her instincts in these instances to push her in one direction or the other but, like almost everything else these days, her instincts seemed to be at odds.
Her nightmares about Han disappearing, the orange fog and Vader's looming presence, stopped once Bespin was no longer a possibility but it was replaced by other disturbing images. Luke in pain and distress. Her wandering through burnt out and abandoned Rebel ships. Alderaanians, though she could never tell if they were refugees or those who perished, trapped in a prison or bunker, gagged and blind-folded. Her father standing with his back to her, refusing to turn around or answer her calls. She almost always woke up crying, grasping at thin air, and Han always held her. Listened. Waited for her to calm down.
She was so angry in those moments. Distraught. She was letting everyone down. Not fulfilling her duties as Princess or Rebel leader. Her parents would be so disappointed. Acting for her own personal gain was not the life of service she was raised to uphold. She needed to go back to the fleet. Risk should never be a deterrent. They were at war. Everyone sacrificed and her life was no more important than anyone else's.
Han stroked her back, held her as close as she needed. Didn't run his fingers through her hair because he knew. Sometimes whispered, Baby, we'll go back if you want, but mostly let her talk. Work it out in her own time and never seemed to question what it all meant for him. He never wavered.
"Don't have to hold it together for me." His low rumble of a voice echoed as her head rested against his chest. "I got you."
But there were other times when her mind was focused. When she felt as ready and as capable as ever. She managed to pick up information on a few of their stopovers to share with Rieekan. Dropped off information for an agent on Ilum. She still dreamt about the bed on the beach, the endless sky. Walking through a forest she didn't recognize and hearing a group of women talking, always at a distance. Strangely, she felt almost shy describing these dreams to Han. It was a different kind of vulnerability. She was a professional purveyor of hope, truly believing they could create a better galaxy, but was slower in feeling any of it on a personal level. But as Han listened, often wrapping strands of her hair around his fingers, sometimes pointing out that a bed on a beach sounded wet and uncomfortable, it didn't seem so impossible to believe.
She was nervous going to Bets'. Told herself it was about preparation and security but knew it was more. Bets was clearly a significant person in Han's life. She knew him as a boy, called him Little Brother, and as much as she was loath to admit it, Leia wanted Bets to like her. But she wasn't angry or upset for herself when Bets and Gala responded so poorly to their news. Han said he didn't care, claimed it was their kid and they were the only ones that mattered in that scenario, but she hated that he didn't get to share the excitement with someone he cared about. Who cared about him. Instead he had to defend their relationship and decisions.
That wasn't the case with Chewie. No matter what issues may be brewing lately, it wasn't about the baby. More than once, she heard Chewie's teasing chuckle, reminding Han he would soon have late nights that had nothing to do with cantinas and alcohol. He would have to give up tinkering with the Falcon to tend to diapers. Han grumbled his reply but she could hear the laughter, and love, underneath it all.
It was Chewie who suggested Aendi and Dix. The three of them were almost punch drunk listing off planets and amusing each other with increasingly outlandish selections. Han was campaigning for Tatooine, claiming Jabba wouldn't think to look in his own backyard, and she was fixated on Ma'ni.
"You said once it was the most beautiful place you had been."
"Sure. Also got a lot of Imperials." He ran a hand along her calf, pulling her feet into his lap. It was all a part of his unspoken agenda to touch her as often as possible. "And a lot of former colleagues who are gonna recognize us and the Falcon straight off."
[I think you mean Golden Dawn.]
"Can it with the Golden Dawn shit."
Chewie chuckled as he sipped his ale.
"Colleagues?"
"Former colleagues." He squinted at her. "And most of those arrangements didn't end well."
"Shocking."
She felt the surge she blamed on hormones but it's what she'd felt since they first got together. She couldn't get enough of him either.
[Where did Aendi and Dix go?]
Han broke his gaze with Leia, blinked a few times as he turned to Chewie. "What?"
"Who are Aendi and Dix?"
"Knew them on Ma'ni." He kept his eyes on Chewie, pondering the question. Either trying to remember where they went or if this was a good idea to even consider.
[Dix would be a good contact.]
"Eloira!" He snapped his fingers. "Somewhere in the Sulltarr System."
Chewie moved to the engineering station and sat down.
"We talked about this." She nudged Han with her foot. "No private conversations when I'm here. Talk to me."
[An ex-girlfriend.] Chewie flicked on the computer and started typing.
"No." He threw Chewie a scowl and turned back to Leia. "Aendi worked at a cantina and we had an easy thing going for a while. Then one time I dropped in and she was with Dix. All good. Everyone's friends."
"And why is Dix a good contact?"
[Worked with the Rebel cell on Ma'ni.]
"He was pulling some crazy shit off." Han laughed, remembering something he didn't elaborate on. "Only know cos Chewie and I helped out with a few things."
"And were paid well for your services, I imagine."
[Set a high price and got nothing.]
"Hey! Did a favor for a friend." He shrugged. "Never hurts to have a friend who owes you a favor."
Chewie returned to the table and handed Leia a datapad.
[Loaded up. Sulltarr and Eloira. They're in Ysper.]
They left it up to her to decide. Sulltarr was an Imperial stronghold. One of Palpatine's earliest supporters following the Clone Wars, staunch and enthusiastic members of the Empire. So loyal, in fact, that there were few garrisons stationed in the system. The people of Sulltarr kept watch on themselves.
Eloira was small with only one major city, Atroum, that contained most of the industry and population. Almost everything outside the capitol was farmland, pastures for livestock, or too rocky for much use. Then about a hundred years ago, Eloira became a destination for hikers and travelers seeking solace in nature. The economy depended on those summer months because the winters were grey and rainy and less appealing. Arriving as the tourists left and leaving after the baby was born, before the tourists returned, could be ideal.
Leia took a deep breath and squeezed Han's hand. "Let's do this."
They moved around the tables and made their way inside. Leia blinked a few times as her eyes adjusted to the low lighting. There were a dozen tables, with only two occupied, and a long bar that wrapped along one side. Despite being mostly empty, it felt cozy. She turned quickly as Han lifted their locked hands so the two girls could pass underneath. They raced back outside, bouncing with excitement in front of the woman. She rolled her eyes and laughed, balancing the tray high as she moved to the next table.
As Han went to talk to the bartender, she looked around the room. Holos, mostly of family Leia assumed, lined the walls. There were plants in corners and hanging from baskets. A table in the corner was covered in art supplies and plates with half-eaten sandwiches.
Leia's thumb brushed her ring, rubbing against the smooth metal. She didn't feel exactly nervous but the need to be vigilant was high. The dockmaster closely examined their IDs when they arrived, even checking the ship's docking history, and asked numerous questions about who they were visiting and why. She gave no indication she found anything suspicious but that didn't mean Imperial troops weren't on their way to arrest them right now.
If they were captured, would the Alliance be notified? They were already missing in action, which the Empire would well know. It was a question of whether the Emperor thought it more advantageous to announce important prisoners or announce prominent executions. If they were captured, they might have to rely on Luke, even though he seemed in more dire straits than them these days.
Leia was sitting in the cockpit when she heard him. Her entire body went cold, could swear she felt the baby move though it was far too early for that to happen, and heard a distinct, Leia. Hear me, Leia. Like the women in her dreams, his voice was far off but she knew it was Luke. Unlike the women, he was distressed and in pain. She ran into the rear hold, almost screaming Luke was in danger and they needed to get a message to Rieekan.
Han and Chewie didn't argue with her. They dropped out of hyperspace to send the message then spent the next two days coming in and out of jumps waiting for a reply. When they finally heard back, it was Luke.
He sounded exhausted, almost broken. Said he found someone to train with but then had a run in with Vader. It was tough but he was fine. On the mend. She listened to the message a dozen times, trying to pick apart every word, every vocal inflection, to get more of the story. She didn't believe he was okay. Hated that she couldn't meditate next to him and maybe open that bridge again. The one consolation she had was he knew about the baby.
"I'm really happy for you, Leia. You and Han. Sorry I can't give Han a hard time about being a dad." She imagined Luke shuffling in his seat. Sitting up straight to talk about serious things. "I'm guessing you're having a hard time being away but I think this is about your world getting bigger not smaller. I want to believe the family we choose is as important as the one we're born into. We have to grab happiness when we find it."
Why did he want to believe it? Why not simply say he believed? She sent a message back but he had already left for Sullust. Rieekan said he would pass it on when possible but it might take a while.
"Kit!" The bartender shouted to the server walking through the room. "Tell Aendi some guy named Pon's here to see her."
The server responded, Sure, barely looking Han's way before pushing through the door to the kitchen.
No one here was suspicious. They didn't expect notorious criminals or the galaxy's most wanted walking through their door. They took everyone at face value. If you said you were Aendi's friend then you were Aendi's friend.
Han walked back and stood in front of her with arms crossed over his chest. "So far, so good."
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves." She cocked her head. Kept her voice low. "Things might turn when she actually sets eyes on you."
He put a hand over his heart like she had wounded him and she laughed.
"Pon Atere!"
A woman stepped in from the kitchen. She was tall, almost as tall as Han, with short dark hair and looked surprised and genuinely happy to see him.
"What brings you to these parts?"
"Thought it was time for a visit. Been a while."
They both spoke clearly, not loud so much as distinctly. They wanted people to hear.
As Aendi pulled back from their hug, her hands gripping his biceps, Leia noticed a tattoo of a twisting vine stretching over her left hand.
"You look good." Aendi smiled. Leia could see the concern in her eyes but the smile was real. "It's good to see you."
Aendi had an easy confidence about her. Welcoming and assessing. Leia suspected little got past her.
She didn't know if Han had a type, per se. She had only met a few of his partners, and no one he would have called a girlfriend, but there was one common denominator. They were all confident. Comfortable in their bodies. Looked like they were ready to take charge in any situation. Leia stepped in closer and held out her hand.
"Liliana."
"Nice to meet, Liliana." She shook Leia's hand. "Girls!"
Leia and Han followed Aendi's hard stare to see the two girls paused in mid-stride. They were laughing and clearly not too concerned about being reprimanded. Leia estimated their ages as maybe six and four. They both wore dresses and soft cloth boots. The older one's blond hair pulled into ponytail while the younger one had small clips keeping the hair off her face.
"Stop running and leave Kit alone."
The older girl's shoulders sank in a dramatic fashion, like a balloon deflating. They both mumbled something that sounded like an agreement as they walked to the table in the corner. Leia did her best to not laugh at the girls' display.
Aendi nodded to Han and Leia to follow, calling out to the bartender as she walked away. "If you see Dix, could you ask him to come to the office?"
"You got it, boss." The bartender didn't look up from his work putting clean glasses away.
The kitchen staff were busy cleaning up from lunch. A Mirialan wiped down the counters as a young man, maybe seventeen or eighteen, loaded the washer. He wore an apron and a headband that pushed his messy brown hair back.
A large man, maybe one of the widest, most solid looking humans Leia had ever seen, was wiping down a counter. He must have been in his sixties, possible seventies, and wore his mostly grey hair in a short military-style cut. Leia guessed he was Aendi's father. According to Han she referred to him as the Big Guy and that description certainly fit.
He glanced up as they passed and Leia noticed how quickly he took them in. Noted Han's blaster and likely wondered if they were carrying anything else. She recognized the look. This was a man who had seen things and he definitely didn't trust everyone who walked through his door.
"Old friends from Ma'ni." Aendi called to the man as they walked past. "We're going to have a quick visit. Are you okay with the girls if they need anything?"
The old man waved a hand telling them to continue on their way.
As soon as they were in the office and the door shut, Han spun on Aendi with pointed finger.
"How'd you know the full name?"
She leaned up against the door, looking relieved they could finally speak.
"Ferra. The dockmaster. She checks everyone who comes through and Dix and I don't get a lot of visitors." She must have noticed Han's quick reaction and held up a hand. "Don't worry. She's checking for Imperials arriving. Not checking arrivals for them."
Han ran a hand through his hair, trying to calm himself down. He had been prepared to run, shoot their way out if they had to. She smiled when he turned to check on her, letting him know they needed to move forward. They weren't in danger at the moment.
"Should I be worried?" Aendi narrowed her eyes at Han.
"Probably." He gave her his half-smile and shrugged. "Yeah. There's plenty to worry about."
"Well, I suppose it would've been more surprising if you said you were here on vacation." Aendi stepped away from the door toward the small sofa. The office was packed, clearly serving as a living and play space as much as for business. She picked up several dolls and piles of their clothes from the sofa cushion. "Apologies for the mess. We started the summer with the best of intentions but lost the will about halfway through."
"It must be hectic having your children here while you work."
Leia had no idea if that was true. At that age, if she spent time with her parents at work, she quietly read in a corner. She was encouraged to ask questions but only when they were alone. She was not allowed to interrupt a conversation. If she wanted to do something more energetic, she could spend her time with nannies or tutors. It was only when she started working as an aide to her father that she could participate. The idea of children playing and talking while she tried to work seemed implausible. It was hard enough dealing with Han when he wanted attention.
"They're quite good at entertaining themselves and each other. As long as nothing is set on fire or there's too much blood, we're good."
Leia noted Aendi said too much blood, implying that some blood was inevitable.
She knew she was a handful as a child. Her mother described her as curious and in constant motion. She moved fearlessly, never missing an opportunity to investigate, climb or learn but she existed in the world of adults. Until she met Dommin when she was twelve, Leia spent very little time with beings her own age. She was the Princess even to her cousins.
Leia had no idea how to care for a baby or young child. Had never done anything more than carry the occasional one and usually for a holo-op. If she became a mother, there would be a staff of nannies and nurses to help. It was yet another example, in a long list of examples, of life skills no one ever thought she might need. It's how she broke the autovalet twice before finally admitting she didn't know how to do laundry. She knew how to order supplies for an entire Rebel base but baffled by what to do the first time she was in a grocery store. She was overwhelmed by choice and etiquette. Had no idea how to determine freshness or the best price. By the time Han found her, she was furious, trying desperately to hide it and failing miserably at it.
"Have a seat." Aendi walked back to the desk with an armload of dolls. "Where's Chewbacca?"
"Back with the ship." Han nodded in the vague direction of the docks like Aendi didn't know where they kept the ships.
The door opened and a tall man with dark curly hair and weathered skin stepped in. As soon as he saw Han, his face lit up.
"What the hell!? Wondered who the hell Pon and Liliana Atere were." Dix went right in for the hug, clapping Han on the back a few times. "How did you end up all the way out here?"
Dix stood back with hands on hips. His forearms were covered in tattoo designs Leia didn't recognize. He wore a t-shirt that had seen better days, shorts and a toolbelt, a black boot on one foot. His prosthetic leg had a dark boot made of soft leather.
"Kind of a long story." Han put his hands on his hips, unintentionally mirroring Dix.
"I'm going to guess you're the mysterious Liliana." He stepped forward and took Leia's hand. "You travelling with this nut? This has to be a long and a good story."
Han sat down beside Leia, leaning forward so his elbows rested on his knees. He was anxious, eager to get this over with.
"You should start talking." Aendi sounded forthright not angry. Practical. She leaned against the desk and picked up one of the dolls, holding it was both hands against her thighs. "Tank will get suspicious if we're in here too long?"
"Tank?"
"My father."
"He got the name in the army." Dix sat on the edge of the desk beside Aendi. "Built like a tank so they called him Tank."
Leia nodded as that made perfect sense.
"We need a place to camp out. Maybe six months. Maybe a bit longer." Han glanced at Leia. They didn't know when the baby was actually due or how long they might need after. There was a lot of guessing going on in their lives these days. "It's a big favor, I get it. If you can't do it, just say and we'll move on."
"Who's looking?" Dix crossed one leg over the other looking relaxed. Leia wondered if this was his natural state and what it took to raise his ire.
"More than one answer to that question." Han gave what might be seen as a cocky grin but she knew was more pained than anything else. "Biggest concern is Imperial."
"I knew it." Dix chuckled and Aendi gave him the side eye. "We heard a YT-1300 was involved with the Death Star. I said it was you and Chewie."
"You said, What if it was Han and Chewie?"
"Same thing."
"No. It's not."
They weren't arguing but refusing to give in. Leia recognized the dynamic, glanced at Han to see if he noted it too but he was caught up in waiting. He played it calm but he had all the tavern's exits marked.
"It's all true." Leia used her diplomat voice. "You're looking at one of the heroes of the Battle of Yavin."
He somehow refrained from rolling his eyes. "Okay, calm down."
"And to think how hard I had to push you to pull any kind of job with us on Ma'ni." Dix laughed.
"I'm standing by that one." Han held up a finger. "You were hitting small targets and the only damage was pissing people off."
"They were military targets." Dix sat up straight. "No civilians were caught in the crossfire."
"The Imps only needed to shut off supplies, round up whoever they damn well wanted, and blame the insurgents. You walked into their propaganda campaign."
"We stopped shipments out and caused enough damage they ceased operations."
"For a month. They came back and built a bigger depot." Han scowled. "You were an inconvenience and that's it."
"It was something! It's what we could do and that's plenty better than what you were doing, which was nothing."
"Well, clearly I've picked up the pace since then."
"Let's save this discussion for dinner." Aendi put a hand on her husband's arm, who looked a bit miffed at his wife's interruption. "I'm sure it will only improve with alcohol."
Leia learned two things with that exchange. One, it was possible to get Dix going, and two, she and Dix will get along.
"Does this have anything to do with Hoth?" Aendi looked between the two of them. "The news cycle was full of reports of the Empire's decisive victory over the Rebels."
Han gave her another quick look. While they assumed Aendi and Dix would be sympathetic to the cause, they didn't expect them to be so well informed. Leia thought there would be more friendly chatter before they discussed insurgents and evacuations.
"Yeah, we were there." He ran his hands up and down his thighs. "Been on the run since."
"Was it as bad as they say? Empire claims there's only a few stragglers left." Dix's voice lowered. "Takes a while to get Alliance messages here—we really only have contact with the cell on Onley—but the last one said the Empire had upped their efforts. Doesn't seem like the kind of thing you'd do if there were only a few stragglers left."
"Guess it depends on the stragglers."
"It was bad." Leia shifted in her seat as Han leaned back. He pressed his thigh against hers. "But not as bad as they claim."
She didn't want to reveal too much or perhaps admit how little she knew. The fleet was regrouping. Spies claimed to be on to something big. Mon had rallied more funding from a few supporters. But Leia saw some of those news reports. Felt the air of confidence and self-righteousness whenever they encountered Imperials or supporters on planet. The Imperials believed they had won. Thought it would only take one small push to put an end to the war.
It was going to feel that much more satisfying when they proved the Imperials wrong.
"It wasn't a defeat." She looked up at Aendi and Dix. "It was a definite setback but we are still very much in the fight."
"Good to hear." Dix nodded at her. "Cos we have no intention of stopping."
"What can you tell me about your cell?" Leia didn't have to look at Han to know he was clenching his teeth.
"It's small." Dix had regained his energy, clearly glad to have free rein to talk. "Us. Mostly me now cos we need to keep the kids in the dark so one of us needs to be there."
"Does your father know?"
"If he does, he's keeping quiet about it." Aendi folded her arms across her chest, still holding on to the doll in one hand. "We'd prefer to keep him out of it. He's no fan of the Empire or the Emperor but the war was hard on him. He doesn't talk about it—hell, he doesn't talk much about anything—but there's trauma."
Leia thought about workers at the palace, former soldiers, who carried scars from the war. Eyes that clouded over when they thought no one was looking. Hands that shook when they handed her the morning kaffe.
"There's Ferra, you knew that one already, and Menek, the kid working in the kitchen." Dix had stopped addressing Han. He was focused on Leia. "Menek's father was in the group but he died maybe six months ago. Bit of a blow, really."
"Because he was a good friend." Aendi sounded like she was feeding him information and Dix responded by quickly shaking his head.
"Of course! Yes. I didn't mean for it to sound… We were talking business. You know?" Dix looked around the room. "Anyway. He owned a shop here. Traveled through the system buying goods so he could carry messages or info back and forth. We've been stuck since he died."
"You can't travel freely?"
"Well, no one says you can't but you're flagged and watched. Doesn't take much to be labelled suspicious."
It didn't surprise Leia that the Empire would treat its loyal subjects with such disdain but it was difficult to understand how the people of Sulltarr let it happen so willingly.
"Why not relay messages? If travel is difficult."
"The entire comms system in Sulltarr is heavily monitored." Aendi unfolded her arms, smoothing out the doll's dress as she spoke. "Part of our Governor's public safety campaign. Pull out the weeds before they take root. One of the many reasons Eloira has turned into a popular Imperial vacation spot."
"Can we focus here?" Han glared at Leia but didn't look angry. She thought she saw a glint of amusement.
"This is pertinent to the discussion." She raised an eyebrow at him. "It's a security and safety issue."
"Yeah and you're sounding a little too excited."
She smiled again. She had to admit that it was a nice distraction.
"I agree that security is the issue. Even if we don't have regular patrols, and almost never have stormtroopers this far south, most people here support the Empire." Aendi went back to holding the doll in both hands. "We've done what we can to help over the years but hiding one of the heroes of the Battle of Yavin, someone the Imperials are clearly actively looking for, might be a step too far."
"But you don't." Leia kept her spot, leaning comfortably against the back of the sofa, hands folded in her lap. "You don't support the Empire. And hiding in a place that the Imperials won't think to look might work to our advantage."
"As long as it's to your advantage."
"That's not how she meant it."
Leia didn't need Han to defend her. She appreciated it but she didn't need it.
"The Alliance has very little information on Sulltarr beyond what is publicly available. We know about a few cells scattered about the system but only have direct contact with two agents." She didn't ask Rieekan for new information since they agreed he shouldn't know where they were going. She was working with her own memory of the database and assumed not much had changed recently. "Our research before coming here said Eloira had a largely loyal population but little Imperial presence. The simple truth is no place is safe for us. There's nowhere in this galaxy we can hide—no matter how secluded—where we don't have to constantly look over our shoulders. We have to be vigilant and prepared, expect detection, possibly betrayal, at every turn. That is the life I chose and one that I accept. But we need to hide, not run, right now. We recognize the dangers involved and that we are asking a lot of you. If this isn't something you feel comfortable doing, perhaps there is somewhere else you could suggest. We came here because Han and Chewbacca said we could trust you and I believe that's true. We really are in need of a favor that we might never be able to repay."
"You're the Princess. Leia." Dix stood up. His brow was furrowed, his voice low. Confused. "You look… It's your voice. And, you know, the speech. We've heard the broadcasts."
Aendi's eyes were suddenly as wide as Dix's. There was a moment of silence as Leia let them catch their breath.
"Yes."
The silence continued for a moment longer then Dix burst out laughing. His head fell back, hand on chest.
"What's so damn funny?" Han narrowed his eyes. He didn't know if he was in on the joke or the joke was on him.
"I don't know." Dix rubbed his face, still laughing. "Lot coming at us at once. Haven't seen you in years. Turns out you're a Rebel now and need a place to hide until things cool down. I'm thinking you brought a girlfriend—and that feels crazy all on its own—but you're actually escorting Princess Leia."
"I'm not escorting her" Han still had the scowl.
"They're wearing rings, Dix."
"The rings are a part of our aliases. Sgoonans wear wedding rings." Leia looked down at her hand, twisted the metal band once, maybe for luck, then looked up at Han.
He surprised her with the rings. Tried to hide his nerves behind bravado. Worried about looking too sentimental if she didn't feel the same way. Said they shouldn't take any chances, in case anyone noticed Pon and Liliana weren't wearing rings. He had shaved off bits from the old hyperdrive and melted them down with Chewie's help. Apparently, Wookiees also knew about forging metals.
But she cried as soon as he pulled them out of his pocket. He wiped away her tears, pressed his forehead against hers, and gave into it.
"Wish I could give you everything." He cupped her cheek. "Sorry that can't happen right now."
"You're doing a pretty good job." She laughed, letting the tears fall. "All things considered."
They slipped the rings on each other's fingers, hers a bit too big, knowing that was as close to a ceremony as they were going to get, and neither of them had taken the rings off since.
"We're not married." She returned Han's half-smile then turned back to Aendi and Dix. "Han and Leia getting married risks attention that we don't want. The Ateres are married and that's good enough."
"Our covers are solid. Haven't run into any trouble so far but need to stop hopping around." Han rested his elbows on his knees again. "Need to settle in for a bit. The idea is to lay low, but yeah, there's a lot that could happen."
"Is it only the Imperials?" Aendi returned Han's stare. "We haven't seen you in long time but you already had a long list of beings not pleased with you."
Leia knew he was ready with a quip but suppressed it.
"There's a few, probably. Big one is the Hutts. Jabba has a bounty on me."
Aendi let her head fall back. She let out a low groan and Leia sensed Han's body tense. He past was going to bite him in the ass. Again.
Dix put a hand on Aendi's arm. "We don't get a lot of Hutts or Hutt associates around here."
"I get that." She was calm. Most of the stress, maybe anger, had left her voice. "We don't have troopers here either but there's still Imperials. Government officials and military."
"Who?" Leia felt Han stare but ignored it. "There are government officials here? Imperial government."
Dix nodded. "The main one is Nilsan Burnesh."
Leia ran through the database in her head. She knew the name but couldn't place it. "I don't think I know him."
"Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Information, Innovation and Industry. His portfolio covers acquisitions and storage. A suitably vague title for the ministry." Aendi spoke as though she was reading from a résumé and Leia knew she had likely heard it many times. "He has a vacation property just outside town. Usually here for most of the summer season. Then on and off through the rest of the year."
"All summer? He's able to work as Deputy Minister from his vacation home?"
"Our guess is his portfolio is more for show. He's there because others want him there. Important people wanting to look important." Dix shrugged. "He comes from money but the big deal is his wife's family. Her father is Governor, grandfather before him. Sulltarr's royal family, essentially."
"I know the family but only by reputation."
Their families didn't move in the same circles. They attended the occasional gala or event together but didn't cross paths. Burnesh's wife often appeared in the society news or gossip pages on Coruscant and that was something the Organa's did their best to avoid. Leia had no recollection of seeing Nilsan Burnesh in the news or at an event but it must have happened at some point.
"Burnesh likes to play the part of the affable Lord. Walks through town likes he owns it. Thinks everyone is honored to be in his midst." He and Aendi shared a quick look. "He's actually pretty friendly so it's easy enough to get close, chat him up. And he works on the basic theory that he's the only who matters so doesn't notice much going on around him."
Aendi let out an audible, slow sigh, as she looked at the ceiling.
"Honestly, there's a good chance no one around here is paying enough attention to the news to recognize you." Aendi tried to hide her smile as Dix threw an arm over her shoulder, kissed her temple. "And it's not strange for people to come here for solitude. Pretty common, actually."
Leia blinked a few times, realizing she might cry. She kept her hands in her lap. Held her breath to keep herself still.
"We have cottages." Dix kept his arm around Aendi's waist. While Aendi was being cautious about this plan, he was ready to jump in. "Well, Tank does, but we mostly run them."
"Are you sure about this?" Leia addressed Aendi. Everything hinged on her.
"No." Aendi put the doll back on the desk and stood up. "But I know it's the right thing to do."
"We need access to a medical center." Han spit out the words then must have realized he sounded angry because he toned it down as he continued. "We gotta lay low, obviously, but still need access."
"There's one in town." Aendi furrowed her brow, clearly confused by Han's interjection. "If it's something serious or major surgery, people are flown up to Atroum but they can do most things here. Is there anything wrong?"
Han shifted. Leia knew he was preparing himself for a fight.
"Nothing is wrong." Leia gave his hand a small tug so he looked at her. "We're having a baby."
He really did have the goofiest grin when his defenses were down. It was the kind of smile that Leia made sure to remember because it could sustain her when things were hard and bleak.
"We realize this further complicates matters." Leia didn't let go of his hand. "I should also point out that my laying low is probably different than most. My primary focus is always the rebellion and bringing down the Empire."
Aendi and Dix stared at them. Eyes wide again. Leia wondered if she needed to soak in some of Han's fuck you energy. She wasn't in the mood to hear about the mistakes there were about to make either.
"That's…" Dix seemed stuck on finding the right word so stood up instead. He grabbed Han's hand with both of his, pulling him from the sofa and into a hug. "Don't know why this seems crazier than Princess Leia showing up but it does."
She didn't have to look at Han to know his eyes darkened. "What's so crazy about it?"
"Fine. Not crazy. A surprise." Dix leaned down to kiss Leia's cheek. "Exciting. I don't know. What do you need me to say? It's good, right?"
"Yeah." Han still sounded somewhat suspicious. "It's good."
Aendi hugged Han. "You look more stunned than us."
"Nah." He did look stunned. "We're good."
Han offered his hand to Leia to help her off the sofa. She didn't need his help but was grateful for it.
He looked at her with raised eyebrows, checking to see if she was just as confused. Aendi and Dix's response wasn't measured by the gravity of the situation. They didn't remind them to be happy despite being on the run. They didn't gravely say it was important to take something for herself. They were happy for them. Excited. There were no caveats.
Han's raised eyebrow turned into something closer to a leer and Leia had to remind herself to not jump him. They weren't in the Falcon. Though, to be fair, they had to watch themselves there, too. They hadn't been particularly discreet, which was another reason Chewbacca was irritated. He found them in the lounge or hold in various states of disarray more than once but walking in on them mid-act in the cockpit was the final straw.
Leia hid in their cabin, curled up at the end of the bunk, embarrassed and slightly shocked she had let it get that far, listening to Chewie's growls and Han's occasional, Okay, okay, I get it. When he crawled onto the bunk beside her, looking rather sheepish, he said they had come to an agreement. Stick to the cabin or one of them would lose a limb. Leia tried to think of it as a teachable moment, even if the only thing she learned was a few new Wookiee swear words.
There was a light tapping on the door and Aendi called out. "Come in, Calla."
The older girl opened the door and stepped in. Calla moved slowly, trying to look casual, but her eyes moved between Han and Leia.
"Poppa says he's going back. Says we can come watch holos if we want."
"Do you want?"
Calla nodded, still finding it hard to focus on her mother.
"This is Pon and Liliana. Old friends of ours." Dix put a hand on Calla's shoulder. "They're going to stay in one of the cottages for the winter."
"Dix, they haven't even seen one yet. Maybe they won't like it."
Dix shrugged. It's not like there was a lot of choice. It was the cottages or move on.
"Are you going to say hello?"
The younger girl stood in the doorway, rocking back and forth on her feet. When Aendi held a hand out, the girl ran in and wrapped her arms around her mother's legs. Aendi laughed and pulled the girl up into her arms.
"And this squishy girl is Basia."
The squishy girl proved to be exactly that, collapsing into a fit of giggles as Aendi hugged her.
"It's nice to meet you." Leia smiled at both kids. Calla returned the smile but Basia burrowed her head against her mother's chest.
"And guess what else?" Dix leaned down to speak to Calla. "They're having a baby."
She gasped. It was an overdramatic, comical gasp as her hands quickly covered her mouth and she spun to look at Han and Leia. Han burst out laughing and that seemed to delight Calla even more.
"Dix! It's their news. They decide who they tell and when." Aendi looked ready to swat her husband.
"It's good news! Who doesn't want to share good news?" He looked pleased with himself. With everything, really. "Besides, they'll figure it out soon enough. It's already obvious if you look."
This time Aendi did swat his arm.
"Don't comment on…" She looked frustrated and angry. Leia suspected Aendi often found herself keeping her husband's enthusiasm in check. "We'll talk later."
"Can I hold her?" Calla looked at Leia with wide eyes. She was being polite, trying to contain her excitement.
Leia smiled as she shook her head. "The baby hasn't been born yet."
"I know that." Calla's voice was confident and clear. Surprised she had to explain this to an adult. "Can I hold the baby was she's born?"
"It's going to be quite some time before that happens."
"I can wait. I can be patient."
Both her parents laughed and Calla spun toward them.
"I'm serious!"
"Calla is very fond of babies and we haven't encountered many lately." Aendi pulled her daughter closer so she could kiss her forehead. "I'm sure Liliana will keep your request in mind."
"Okay, my darlings." Dix clapped his hands. "We're going to take them to see the cottages and you're off to watch holos with Poppa."
Calla looked like she regretted admitting that's what she wanted to do but was stalled on how to get out of it.
"We won't be long." Aendi put Basia down. "They can come back to the house after."
That seemed to satisfy the girls as they ran out of the office calling for their grandfather.
"I'll talk to Tank." Dix moved toward the door. "Meet you at the speeder."
Aendi stood up to follow Dix out, stopping at the door and letting it close.
"I think it's going to take a while to process all of this." She turned back to them. "We're here to help. For the rebellion. For an old friend. Because two people are in need and that's what should be done. Because that in itself shouldn't be a criminal act."
She put her hands on her hips. Inhaled deeply then let it out slowly.
"I understand the rebellion comes first for you and I understand why. And I understand Dix's position. But my family comes first for me." She held up a hand in case Leia intended to speak. "And I understand putting family first also means sacrifice, fighting for the greater good. All of it. My father was gone for years, in the army and the war, and he came back broken."
Leia's first thought was to hug her. It seemed like something that might comfort them both. But she stood beside Han, rested both hands on her stomach and listened.
"I have no idea what I'm trying to say." Aendi rubbed her eyes with the heels of her hand. "Maybe I'm adding a loophole in this agreement that if I decide this is too much then you need to leave."
Leia nodded once. It was a reasonable request.
Aendi's hands went back to her hips, locked eyes with her. Leia could sense Aendi's worry and resolve but there was also a small half-smile that told a different story.
"Or maybe I want to say I'm glad we finally have a chance to do something more." The half-smile turned into a full grin. "I guess only time will tell."
She turned back to the door and stepped out of the office.
Han's hand went to Leia's back as he leaned over and kissed her temple. He stayed close for a moment, breathing in deeply, taking in her scent.
"Exactly how pregnant do I look?"
"Huge." He stepped back. "Bigger question is, should we worry about Calla? She seems pretty into our kid."
"Oh, we definitely need to keep our eyes on that one."
It was a twenty minute drive to the cottages and Leia spent almost the entire time asking questions. She sat in the back of the speeder with Aendi, watched the town turn into pastures then rocky hills then a forest, and pulled in as much information as she could.
Aendi's family had been in Eloira for generations. Her great-grandfather built the cottages when tourism ramped up. They rented them out year round, though there were fewer visitors in the winter. Eloira was small but its port was the major entry point for this region and thanks to Ferra they had a good handle on who was coming and going.
"Keeps Ysper in the Empire's good books." Dix drove with only one hand on the control. He looked like someone who had driven this route countless times and was completely relaxed doing so. Leia didn't doubt his devotion to the cause but he was definitely a Rebel who has never been in battle. "Ferra's reports are so thorough and detailed, they have no idea what she's left out."
Leia asked about the security at Burnesh's house. How easily could Menek and Dix access it? Could they move freely? If there were no guards, what measures were in place? How often did he have visitors? What did they know about his role in the ministry? She needed access to Alliance resources and needed to assess the risks in asking Rieekan. They also needed to figure out how she and Rieekan could exchange messages. A heavily monitored comms system would make things even more difficult.
Dix stopped the speeder in front of a row of six small cottages nestled into the edge of the forest. The trees provided shade and the illusion of privacy but each building was easily visible from the road.
"There's a few others that will be free in a week or so but you can see this one now." Dix turned around to look at Leia. "They're all pretty much the same so you'll get the idea."
Leia didn't have heart to go in. It didn't feel like the best choice but it was the only one so what did it matter if she liked it or not. She played the pregnancy card, claiming she needed fresh air, and even though Han's look said he didn't believe her, he agreed to look around and report back.
Aendi took Han to look as one of the cottagers pulled Dix aside to point out an eave that needed repair. Leia stayed by the speeder, trying to figure out how they could make it work.
The cottages were too close together and too close to the road. Strategically, this was a bad idea. It would be hard to set up extra security without others noticing. There might also be an issue with turn over. She knew they couldn't avoid a certain amount of exposure but it would be best to limit it. Have it more on their own terms.
And then there was Chewbacca. It would be crowded with the three of them and then the baby in that tiny cabin. It was tight on the Falcon and this option was much smaller. He could stay on the ship, probably be happy to have his own space, but where would the Falcon go? There wasn't room here and they weren't going to suggest Chewie stay at the docking bay. That was unacceptable.
Things came to a head between her and Chewie when she once again failed to return to the ship on time. The first few times, it was Han who got angry—yelled, You have a comm for a reason—but gave up eventually. He still worried but there was no point in arguing since it was going to happen again. She always had a good excuse. There were stormtroopers where they shouldn't be so she followed them. She was eavesdropping on a conversation in the market square. She wanted to check out a warehouse, there were rumors about weapons shipments, then had to hide until the cargo haulers left.
Chewie was silent through most of those arguments but that's how Chewie was during much of their extended trip. He sometimes huffed, though Leia didn't know if it was directed at anyone in particular, and walked out of the room. So, when he spun around in his chair and laid into her, it was something of a surprise.
[Stop acting like you're the only one here!]
"Hey! Watch it." Han stopped mid-check to face Chewie.
[You wanted us to talk.]
"Even I know that isn't talking!"
"Let him." Leia leaned back in her seat like she was settling in. "I'd like to hear what he has to say."
It was a close call getting off planet but they managed it without detection or blaster fire and her adrenaline was still pumping. It was time to air grievances anyway.
[We don't need you here.] Chewie nodded toward the hatch, telling Han to leave.
Han looked at Leia, raised an eyebrow.
"We don't." That sounded a bit harsh and she hoped he knew it wasn't really directed at him. "Chewie and I need to talk."
Han looked between them, hesitating. "Fine. I'll finish the check out there."
He walked out slowly, giving them both ample opportunity to stop him. She didn't watch him leave but knew he was concerned, maybe a little disappointed, as the hatch closed behind him.
Leia unsnapped her safety harness and moved to sit in Han's chair. She sat up straight, legs too short to reach the deck, hands on the arm rests.
"So, what would you like to say to me?" It wasn't her best or most diplomatic opener but it was out in the world now.
[You're putting us in danger because you're bored and frustrated.]
"I am following leads. We can't take a chance that we'll miss something important. Not when things are so dire."
[You don't know how dire or how solid any of it is and that's why you're panicking and making bad decisions.] He hit a series of buttons on the console that Leia knew didn't do anything important. [You think everyone in a suit in an Imperial officer.]
"That's because many are! Or have some connection. And I'm only following someone if they mention anything about governments or shipments or anything about weapons."
[You followed those men on Hosa and they were actors rehearsing lines.]
She never should have admitted that one to them.
"That is not the norm."
[You're taking dumb chances.]
"I'm not sitting back and playing it safe."
[Play it smart then! That's what you used to do. That's what made you a good leader.]
She quickly inhaled and wish she had something to throw.
"Are you suggesting I'm no longer a good leader?" She could take Ice Princess or other digs at her leadership style but she would not accept anyone questioning her ability to lead.
Chewie sighed. Placed his hands on the arm rests trying to recenter himself.
[I think we've tangled ourselves up.] His voice was softer. [I've spent too much in my own head lately.]
Leia was disarmed by the change in tactic then felt ashamed that her first thought was that Chewie was applying tactics and not speaking honestly.
"I certainly understand spending too much time in your head." She took a deep breath. "I know everything has changed, Chewie. You and Han have been together so long and have routines and order. I know my being here changes everything but I don't know what to do about it. I'm not going anywhere. I mean, I hope that we aren't all living on the Falcon together for too long but we are both in Han's life and that isn't going to change. At least, I hope not."
[Do you think I have issues with you and Solo being together?] He shook his head. [I'm happy for you. Relieved. I worried he would never figure it out.] He chuckled then took another beat. [Find someone like I did.]
Leia pulled her legs up into the chair and turned to face Chewie.
[It's not unusual for Wookiees to leave home for extended periods. When I was young, my father was away for many years. He worked off-planet, came home when he could, which wasn't often. Others in my tribe worked elsewhere on Kashyyyk. We accept distance.]
Leia's father was also often gone. Her mother tied up with work most of her waking hours. It was hard sometimes, she missed them, but Leia knew it would never change. That's simply not how it worked.
[We haven't been back in two years. I know it's not possible to go now but I think I've let that affect my mood.] There was no trace of anger in his voice. He was gruff but thoughtful Chewie again. [Seeing you and Solo reminds me what I am missing. I miss Malla. I miss home.]
She stumbled over a few of his words. He was speaking quietly, the tones were different, more subtle, and she had to adjust her understanding of Shyriiwook. Leia reached across to rest a hand on his arm.
[But you are being reckless.] He smiled at her. [We all need to behave differently to make this work.]
"I don't know how to do any of this." She started to pull her hand away but Chewie held it in place, gently cupping it against his arm. "Everything with Han feels right. It took me a long time to figure it out and accept it but I have no doubts about him. I have a lot of concerns about how to be a mother but know it's what I want. Everything else, though. I don't know how to be anything other than the Princess or Rebel Commander. I was raised to put work first and that's all there's been since Alderaan."
[You are selling yourself short.] He chuckled when he realized what he said and she narrowed her eyes at him. [Much has changed in these three years. You have changed.] He squeezed her hand against his arm. [You aren't the same as when your parents last saw you but you are still their daughter.]
"I feel guilty for leaving the front lines and I feel guilty for wanting to go back." She tried smiling but it didn't come easily. "Han has to listen to me complain and fret about it. He's going to crack eventually."
[This is where his idiotic stubbornness comes in handy. There's no turning back once you decided to take this path.] He gave her hand a few pats then let her go. [Sorry to tell this but you're stuck with him now.]
For reasons she couldn't explain, Leia blushed as she sat back in the pilot's chair. She wrapped her arms around her knees and leaned her head back.
[Perhaps we should make a pledge to each other.] Chewie turned his gaze out toward the hyperspace trails, too. [When I feel particularly melancholy about missing Kashyyyk and Malla, you can remind me I am doing what I can to set things right so I can safely return. So Kashyyyk can be free. And perhaps you can put up with a few more stories about life in the wroshyr trees.]
"Gladly."
[And when you worry about not being with High Command, I will remind you that you are still in the thick of it. You are not losing sight of the war. Only looking at it from a different angle.]
Leia watched Dix walk back toward her. He had removed his tool belt before getting in the speeder and put on a light jacket, his only concession to the cooling temperature. She noticed a slight hitch in his gait, not quite a limp, as he made his way along the path.
"Are you feeling better?" He stopped in front of her.
"I am." She was leaning against the speeder, her hands folded in front of her. "You're from Ma'ni?"
Dix shook his head.
"Tragun. That's where I got this." He nodded down toward his prosthetic leg. "My family, what was left of it, evacuated to Ma'ni after the solstice bombing."
"I'm sorry." Leia gave a solemn nod. She wished there was more to say but knew from personal experience that words alone couldn't cover it.
Tragun was a resource rich planet that refused to align itself with either side during the Clone War and one of the first places Imperial troops descended when the Empire took control. The response to the occupation was immediate. First politicians speaking against it then protests in the street. It was peaceful but constant and the Empire eventually grew tired of it. They hit during the winter solstice celebrations when they knew most of the population would be with family and otherwise occupied. The planet was devasted, cities destroyed, and most of the population, the few remaining, evacuated.
"It doesn't compare to Alderaan."
Leia didn't turn away, not even for a second.
"I don't believe in comparing grief or trauma." She didn't bother hiding the twinge of sadness in her eyes. "I believe in the fight to stop the Empire and preventing anything like Tragun or Alderaan from happening again."
She turned at the sound of laughter. Han and Aendi were heading back, walking along the narrow path from the cottage. There was a comfortable ease between them. She watched their approach and his slow smile as he caught her gaze.
"It's tight but we could probably make it work." Han sounded less confident and more resolved. "And we can afford it."
Money. Right. Why did she keep forgetting to factor in that part?
"Tank said we could look at Brehm's place." Dix noticed his wife's confused look. "When I told him we were showing them a cottage, he said Brehm's place might be better."
"It has to be a mess." Aendi held the speeder door open, leaning on it as she spoke. "When were you there last?"
"It's still standing." Dix shrugged. "Needs fixing and cleaning but the house is good. Solid."
"It's actually my grandparents' place." Aendi turned her attention to Leia. "Brehm arrived when I was about thirteen and my parents rented it to him. Dad knew him from his army days."
"Nice guy but kept to himself." Dix held the speeder door open for Leia. "He left a couple years ago and Tank didn't want to rent it out again. Brehm was pretty much his only friend so we thought maybe it was about missing him."
Leia sat in the speeder. "Are you sure he left?"
"We wondered if he died but like we said." Dix sat down and pulled his door closed. "Tank doesn't talk much."
"Okay, then." Han took his seat beside Dix. "Let's try round two."
They drove down the tree-lined lane and around a bend to reveal a small two-story house. The exterior looked slightly battered and vines had taken over one side but all the windows were intact and the roof looked in good shape. Dix had obviously done some maintenance to keep the place under control.
Leia trailed behind everyone else, slowly getting out of the speeder, taking her time walking up to the house. Once again, Han turned back to check on her. She nodded, reassuring him she was fine. She paused to peer through the window of a smaller building. It was dark and dusty inside with equipment and furniture covered in drop cloths. Hand tools still hung on the walls.
She decided to circle the house before going in. The forest edge was only a few feet from the side of the house and Leia walked through the trees, lifting her skirt as she stepped over roots and avoided piles of wet leaves. It was chillier without direct sunlight, a sign of the coming winter, but it felt crisp and clean. She realized how long it had been since she experienced that sensation. Three years on remote planets and living, often literally, underground meant no opportunities to enjoy the changing seasons.
There was a small clearing by the backdoor, more overgrown grass and the remnants of a garden. There was a path through the trees and Leia thought she could see another clearing a few hundred feet away. It wasn't like the forests of Alderaan, where trees could grow and twist to enormous heights. It reminded her more of the forests on Pynterra where Myka and his family had a cabin. The roots on Eloira could only go so far before they encountered rock so the trees could only grow so high. Still, they provided shelter and Leia was tempted to take the path to see where it might lead her.
She could see Dix and Han inside, standing in the center of the room. Han had hands on hips, looking at whatever Dix was pointing at. His brow was furrowed, taking it all in, and she recognized the look. He was assessing the situation. Problem-solving. He moved to the side of the room and Leia knew he was on his way to a solution.
Leia stepped through the front door and into the kitchen. Aendi, leaning against a counter, smiled as she walked in. The kitchen took up maybe a quarter of the main room with the living area occupying the rest. The marks on the floor told her there used to be a wall dividing the two rooms. On the opposite side were two doors, a staircase, and another door. The door leading to the backyard, open now to let in air, was on the adjacent wall.
There was no furniture and the room was in desperate need of a clean and maybe a coat of paint but it was bright and didn't smell too musty despite being closed up for so long. The kitchen had a row of windows above the counter and sink and a skylight above. The cupboards needed work, a few doors were crooked and one missing.
Leia ran a hand along the counter, leaving a line in the dust. She considered wiping her hand on her skirt but decided washing it would be better. She had some clothes, not a lot, and she was trying to be conservative.
"Don't!" Han shouted from across the room. "Taps aren't doing what you want them to do."
"We'll have to check the well." Dix pulled open the circuit panel in the wall. "Or see about digging a new one."
"There's not much to see but I can show you around." Aendi walked toward the opposite side of the room and opened the middle door. "Fresher's small, only a sani and sink and, apparently, a very dirty mirror."
Leia gave a quick glance inside before following Aendi to the door on the left.
"Others are bedrooms." Aendi opened up the first one then walked to the door on the other side of the stairs. "My mom and uncle. I think Brehm used one but I was only in here once while he lived here. He lived a sparse life. Very little furniture."
One room was smaller than the other but they both had windows. She hit the light switch but nothing happened.
"Power is off. Dix will have to check the generator." Aendi opened a window, letting the breeze in. "I don't know what happened to the blinds. Maybe everything is in crates in Grandfather's workroom. Not sure anyone has looked since we moved Grandma out."
Aendi stood in the middle of the room, hands on hips, looking around. She seemed to be remembering the place as it once was.
"Brehm lived here for fifteen years." She paused, doing the math in her head. "Sixteen. Once a week, he came into the tavern for dinner. Same night, same table, same meal. Dad always came out to sit with him. Mom said if they spoke a dozen words to each other it was a miracle. Dad came out here once a week, too. Always same night but no idea what went on. I'm guessing lots of sitting in silence and drinking whisky."
Aendi headed back toward the main room. "I'll show you the upstairs."
Leia followed her out. She was having a moment, much like first walking through the patio at the tavern, when everything around her felt brighter, more intense. She could feel the breeze coming from the open window and door, track its path through the room. The sunlight coming through the front windows cut perfect, distinct rectangles of bright light on the living room floor. She swore she could hear the leaves rustling on the trees.
Han was kneeling on the floor, looking up into the fireplace and up the chimney. They were contemplating the risks of opening the flue, wondering the last time the fireplace was used.
As soon as Leia hit the stair landing and turned to ascend the second set, she knew.
Once again, the room was almost empty. Only light pouring in from the windows lining two walls and skylight on the sloped ceiling. Leia peered into the fresher, a full suite with a shower stall and a separate tub, both in desperate need of attention to remove stains and rust. Leia walked to the windows facing the front yard and noticed another path through the woods heading toward town. The other wall of windows over looked the kitchen's roof.
"I loved this room when I was kid. Used to hang out here to read." Aendi stood in a corner, arms crossed over her chest. "Mom was always working at the tavern, then Dad when he got back, so I spent a lot of time here."
Leia moved across the room to look at a wooden bedframe leaning against the wall. It was plain with only a few accents carved along the edges and wide enough that Han could easily lay across. She ran a hand along the top of the headboard. It was worn smooth.
"Was this your grandparents' bed?"
"No." Aendi moved to stand beside her. "Dix and I have that one. I guess it was Brehm's? We could ask Tank. He cleaned up the place after Brehm left."
The feeling of everything being a bit brighter than usual faded away and Leia was left with a sense of calm. A simple, easy feeling of calm.
Han appeared at the top of the stairs with Dix right behind him.
"The wiring here's a mess. Looks like an animal might've taken a whack at it." He looked around the room, clearly impressed by the light. Even a jaded spacer appreciates a well-placed skylight. "We'd need Chewie to look things over to figure out security but we could probably rig up some cameras. We've got stuff on the Falcon we could use."
She looked at him and smiled, her hand still resting on the bedframe.
He cocked his head at her. Wondered what she was up to. "S'all good?"
Leia nodded her head, beckoning him closer.
"All good."