Star Wars: Arda Unleashed

by Lord Exar Kun

After the Arda Campaign ended in victory for the Republic and their local allies, the galaxy's eyes returned to the wider Clone Wars. However, the Dark Lord Sauron has yet to be vanquished. Now he has come to the wider galaxy free from the binds of Arda, and is ready to be unleashed upon the stars. As the Chosen One's fate, the Republic's and the Jedi Order's remains to be seen.

11. Advice, a Dangerous Gift

Chapter 11

Advice, a Dangerous Gift

"Gandalf!" In a flash of motion Anakin closed the distance between the two of them and slammed himself into the old wizard. Gandalf huffed as the air was forced from his lungs and Anakin encased him in a powerful embrace. The Jedi laughed quite loudly as Gandalf was soon to join with hearty laughter of his own. He pat Anakin's back and both reveled in their reunion. All the while Padmé watched on. Confused, but bearing a wide smile at the show her husband was presenting her with.

"What are you doing here?! I'm not dreaming or anything, right?" Anakin pulled back and asked Gandalf who chuckled. His warm eyes seeming just as full of laughter.

"Oh no, nothing of the sort. It would seem that your Republic has been quite persistent."

"Persistent how?" Anakin asked.

"Aragorn did promise to send a delegation to it. To Master Kenobi, that is. It seems such an offer has made an impression with the man sent to our world from your Republic. He has since his arrival requested of the King this delegation." Gandalf explained. Anakin built up in his head the series of events that had likely led to Gandalf being there then. Though, he did also feel somewhat agitated that some faceless bureaucrat had been bothering Aragorn. Someone from the Republic. Politicians all the same. The most annoying lot of the whole galaxy. As was usual.

"Well, regardless of why you're here I couldn't be more happy to see you!" Anakin honestly replied and tightened his grip to Gandalf's shoulders in friendly and welcoming a manner.

"I cannot say our passage here has been wholly without its own dangers. Though I should be grateful. We are all in one piece after all."

"'We?'" Anakin repeated. Hoping beyond hope and logic that perhaps all of the Fellowship had found themselves here. Though he knew that would be impossible. For now, anyways.

"Yes, Aragorn; with no small amount of wise council, managed to pull together the whole of this delegation. Myself, and a few familiar faces. Some, perhaps not so familiar as well." A shame, but still Anakin beamed and wondered who had come with the wizard. He sidestepped allowing Gandalf to view the troopers more clearly who seemed a bit perplexed at the showing the General gave them.

"So, you helped some of the troops? You have my thanks, and that of the whole Republic, Gandalf. Really."

"Ah, it was no trouble at all." The wizard waved him and the gathered men off.

"Besides, this old man had plenty of help from my companions." Gandalf chuckled and Anakin rolled his eyes.

"'Old man.' Yeah sure." Anakin scoffed. The White Wizard again chuckled, and it was an infectious thing that only helped Anakin's waning smirk grow back to full plaster along his features.

"Well, we should be off anyways." Both turned to the sound of the lead trooper, the Colonel.

"Again, you have my thanks, sir. General!" The man saluted Anakin and praised Gandalf. Both of whom bowed their heads. Although the passing men all received a bowed head from Anakin. It was the least amount of respect anyone could offer. Especially to those so clearly affected by the battle and war so egregiously.

"I must say," Gandalf began as they watched the men pass. "I have yet to come to terms with the idea of 'copied men.' What Aragorn called cloning. It is...unusual a thought, and manner by which Men may come into being. Similar in all outward appearances. Yet bearing themselves differently. Speaking and thinking apart from the other." Gandalf went on with his momentary rumination. His eyes set and narrowed thoughtfully towards the hall the men had vanished down. Slowly of course, considering their varied injuries.

"Cloning is...odd." Anakin relented with a shrug.

"But, every one of those men have fought and continue to fight on. They're the best troops we have. The Republic is incredibly slow on the military uptake. The officer class save for the lower positions are all held by attendees and graduates of the academies these days. Some divisions are being trained and armed without clone involvement. So, I've been told. I'll wait to see their combat effectiveness myself though." Gandalf watched Anakin go on with a muted interest. Anakin smiled. Reminding himself he needn't really over explain too much where it came to Gandalf. The old man was more than smart, and more than good at deducing what he meant.

"I look forward to a great many things as well, Anakin. Ah, but I see your manners are still left lacking!" He shook his head and clanged his staff to the metal beneath.

"Huh?"

"You've yet to introduce me to your companion here!" Gandalf chuckled. His old sage eyes planting themselves onto Padmé. For her part she still maintained a wide smile. Clearly she loved watching this exchange between her husband and this older man. For his part though, Anakin cringed and raced up to be alongside her.

"You're right. Sorry."

"How quickly you forget me, Ani." She teased, and caused his cringe to deepen some.

"I'm sorry! Gandalf, this is my..." Anakin caught himself and choked on his words momentarily. Even if he did recall him explaining whom Padmé was to a degree back on the fields of Rohan when he Gandalf and Obi-Wan warded off Sauron, he couldn't let himself be too open about it. He hoped Gandalf understood.

"My...my dear friend, Senator Padmé Amidala. She comes from the planet Naboo. A true believer in our Republic. You ever wanna talk with someone about it, its merits and whatnot, I say you should talk to her. Well, along with the Supreme Chancellor of course." Gandalf dipped his head low, and Padmé watched before she also bowed from the hip. Both their heads turning chest-ward as they then rose back up.

"Any friend of Ani's is a friend of mine. Just as he was talking so much about you and this 'Fellowship.'"

"Ah, so my name does precede me!" Gandalf smiled.

"Indeed. I recognize the name, err, sir." Gandalf waved her off. His kindly demeanor shining through and winning her over near immediately.

"Please, you may call me Gandalf. Mithrandir if it suits you better, my lady. Indeed I have many names."

"So I've been told." Padmé laughed. The sound of which set fire to Anakin who felt warmed at the sound, but said nothing of it. Today honestly could not get any better! For him anyways. He had to remind himself of that every now and again.

"That kinda brings me back around." Anakin interjected. "When did you get here? The battle has just ended! Did you and whoever you brought with you arrive a few days ago? If so, gotta say sorry for the rough introduction." Gandalf nodded. In that moment his light eyes seeming to distance. Though he soon returned back.

"Oh, but we have just arrived today. Not but a few hours ago."

"What?!" Anakin snapped as Padmé cocked her head.

"'Hours?' That would mean that you-"

"Saw what amounts to the full brutality of war here? Yes indeed I have, my Lady." Gandalf replied to Padmé. Her face dimming some.

"As Anakin said, I'm sorry your first impression of things here at the very heart of the Republic have been marked by warfare." Gandalf, however, waved them off once more.

"To form a view of another or their people based on the actions they've taken to defend themselves against relentless an enemy would be folly indeed. Were such a thing true, then I should think Anakin and Obi-Wan would have had fell an outlook of our world." Gandalf pointedly looked to Anakin. For his part the Jedi's mouth was still parted. Mind racing through the possibilities of Gandalf and his company coming to Coruscant through the midst of so massive a battle as had just ended.

"Ani." She prompted him and Anakin shook himself.

"I uh, yeah. Yeah of course! No, I mean...how?"

"How what, my friend?" The wizard tilted his head.

"How did you make it through the battle?! You saw what it was like right? You had to of seen what chaos was going on up there?"

"That we had. We can give thanks to the...oh what are they called...ah, the pilots! I should be thankful for the abilities of the pilots given to us by your Republic's representative within Minas Tirith. Their skill and ability whilst under pressures even I do not know fully, are truly remarkable." Gandalf remarked.

"Just good piloting? You sure? What did they even transport you in on?"

"Ani, perhaps you shouldn't pester him with so many questions?" Padmé was sure to attempt and ground Anakin. He passed her a look still full of perplexion.

"Huh? I...no yeah you're right. I just...I can't believe they sent you here during the middle of a fight."

"Hmm." Gandalf hummed. "From what our pilots said in response to that quite loud 'Colonel' of yours, there was a lack of information."

"What do you mean?" Anakin cocked his brow.

"They had not known such an attack had taken place. Or, that it remained in motion." Gandalf informed. Thinking it over, Anakin supposed that made sense. Perhaps they had taken off for Arda during the transmission downtime from the Separatist jamming equipment? Yeah that made the most sense.

"Regardless of how, we should be thankful that they made it through. Hopefully unscathed and no worse for wear?" Padmé offered and indeed the wizard nodded.

"A fair view, my Lady. I should count ourselves in good favor to have passed by such titanic a battle without wound or injury given to myself or my company. Though, of course such cannot be said for all."

"Sadly not." Anakin intoned. His mind fluttering to the countless civilian and clone deaths. Many of which he didn't even know of. It was simply a safe assumption that countless many lay dead and scattered. Both in orbit and on the planet. Force knew how long some would take to find...if they were to ever be found at all.

"Regardless, the battle is over, and won. We shouldn't focus on what we lost. Only on what we can fix, and manage as time goes on. Besides, you made it through. We're all standing here. That's a bit of a victory. At least, I'd say so." Padmé added, somehow managing to say such in just the right way to make Anakin feel just a tad better. He bowed his head.

"You're right. It is good to see you Gandalf! You'll have to tell me what's been going on since we left!" Anakin fell back into a welcoming tone and attitude. "You'll also need to tell me who you came with."

"Oh, but why tell you what you can see well enough with your eyes?" The wizard chortled and turned. "Come! They have us waiting in this room."

"What room?" Anakin called seeing nothing but a hallway.

"Follow after me, and you shall see which, Master Skywalker!" Gandalf's voice, rising to a boom retorted and Anakin shook his head.

"Still a demanding grump."

"Oh shush, he seems friendly! Friendlier than even you made out." Padmé shot back.

"You don't have to come you know. I can meet you back at the apartment?" Anakin inquired. His chest tightening as the revelations from earlier that day played over him. Even with Gandalf's unexpected arrival he knew something even more important waited him, and his wife, back at home. Padmé, however, shrugged such a notion off as she made after the old man.

"Nonsense! We'll have more than enough time to catch up and acquaint you." Anakin followed after. Still feeling somewhat unsure.

"If you're positive then..."

"Of course I am. I would like to meet a few of the people who've kept you company for the past year myself. Perhaps even orient them a little further."

"Ever the politician." Anakin playfully scoffed. Padmé lowered her voice and leaned into him as he came to her side once more.

"Yet, you love me." She smirked, and it drove him insane. All he could do was meekly smile back and chuckle. Force, he did love her. More than she could ever truly know.

(…)

It only took a few moments of walking through a series of the overly grandiose halls of the Senate until they reached one among many sets of doors. Through the halls the group of three had silently passed many more clones moving in patrols or moving injured persons of various look and demeanor about. Even as Anakin watched them move and pass him by; saluting or acknowledging him as their General, he felt a tinge of embarrassment mingled with shame as he felt himself far too elated at seeing some familiar faces compared to engaging these brave and battered men.

"Ah yes this should be it." Gandalf intoned causing Anakin to smirk darkly from behind.

"You sure? Senility could make even wizards forgetful." Gandalf twisted around and gave Anakin a pointed look. Silently he observed Anakin and the Jedi folded his arms meeting his gaze. Doing what he knew best to do when Obi-Wan passed him similar a look. Padmé rolled her eyes subtly at her husband's foolishness.

"Ani..." She sighed, but he did not relent. Until Gandalf finally bore a slim smile and shook his head.

"Alas, my young friend your humor is as pointed and engaging as it is below me." Gandalf scoffed.

"Why thank you…wait." Gandalf began chortling proudly as Anakin realized his mistake, but he huffed anyways and winked Padmé's way. Whom could still only shake her head as the door slid open revealing several voices. Some of which set Anakin's eyes into renewed merriment as he eagerly pushed against Gandalf who entered ahead of him.

"I've returned with a guest. Two I should say in fact!" Gandalf announced as Anakin barged in after him and set his eyes over the room. His grin, somehow widened even more than before, and Padmé didn't know such a thing was possible causing her to giggle as he threw his arms up and out.

"Merry, Pippin, and Gimli! You tiny beautiful dwarf!" Anakin called, and Padmé watched two little men, no taller than children, and in fact as small as Anakin had told her both cry out in laughter and joyful chortles.

"Anakin!" One of them called as he ran forward, his small form matching Anakin's before, as he wrapped himself against the Jedi Knight's legs in as powerful an embrace as he could. Anakin laughed and bore a face of some manner of happiness and what Padmé could only call relief as he grasped this small figure with one arm.

"It's good to see you too Pippin! So soon after we left too!" The other, who Padmé could guess to be Merry came up after Pippin and bowed their way.

"It's good to see you Anakin. Oh and greetings, my Lady." This one's voice was more cool and calm, whilst Pippin's was louder, but full of life and a hint of an underlying chuckle always threatening to release itself. Padmé bowed and smiled matching this Merry in stance.

"Greetings, sir. Anakin's spoken of you and your friends."

"Only the good parts I hope." He smiled.

"There's bad parts?" Padmé cocked a brow to which Merry jerked his head towards Pippin.

"Always, my Lady. Pippin is with us after all."

"Oi, I heard that Merry!" Both hobbits grinned and laughed joined by Anakin who pulled Merry into the hugging embrace. Merry happily allowed it as Gandalf could only smile at the display.

"Ah, you've found our long lost Jedi, have you Gandalf?!" Padmé heard a heavily accented and...'broad' voice boom, and turned to see a slightly taller, but certainly more strongly built figure show himself. Across him lay a burgundy tunic of sorts and a helmet of stone with hidden armor about his figure and matching leggings. A simple axe was beneath his chin, as he leaned against it set to the floor. She knew without even needing to hear his name that this was the dwarf Gimli. Someone who Anakin apparently had quite the back and forth with. Two peas in a pod it should seem.

"I know you missed me Gimli! You don't have to hide it, you miserable little dwarf you!" Anakin laughed as the two hobbits pulled away joining him. Gimli huffed and pointed his axe at Anakin.

"Keep on like that and I'll show you 'miserable and little' laddie!" Gimli warned, but Anakin silently opened his arms and raised his brow.

"I know you want in." Anakin joked. Gimli grumbled and did not move...for a moment, before he heartily, abrasively even broke into loud raucous laughter and moved in, joining Anakin in a brotherly embrace.

"You damned fool you! Having us come here amid a battle such as that! No food or quality beer in my belly, and death on my doorstep! Without even Obi-Wan with you!" Gimli complained joyously and Anakin patted his back.

"My apologies, Master Dwarf. I shall tell Obi-Wan, and the rest of the Republic of your poor meal experiences thus far."

"That you should lad! If you are looking to gain my support that is." Both of them chortled and grappled about as Anakin pat Gimli free.

"It's good, no, actually it's great to see you guys again!" Anakin laughed beaming in such joy as to make Padmé feel even the slightest bit jealous. Were she not so enraptured by her husband's own happiness with this lot.

"It's good to see you too, Anakin. Though like Gimli said, we could do without nearly dying. Especially before seeing this world." Merry offered.

"Ah right. The battle." Anakin cringed again.

"I'm sorry Merry. Your ship shouldn't have been sent when it was. My only guess is that the people who sent you hadn't known about the battle at the time. Worst possible timing, but I'm glad you all made it through unscathed."

"Oh as am I!" Pippin began, sounding far more indifferent than Merry.

"Though I wouldn't say it wasn't eyeopening! So many lights flying about the stars battering those err...warships. Explosions of fire and smoke! Voices all over the place, through that table the pilots used!" Pippin went on with a mix of astonishment, horror, and pure awe.

"Yeah well, I guess the taste of warfare on our side you got to see back on Arda was pittance compared to what it can be. A sight you all got to see firsthand sadly. Again, I'm sorry you guys had to see that."

"Perhaps view of such a sight is not without its own merits, Anakin Skywalker." A new voice called out. Feminine, as it was airy and inherently wise. Padmé jumped a bit only then realizing she had not taken in the sight of four others about the room. All of whom watched the reunion of Anakin with his Fellowship comrades in varying degrees of bemusement and amusement.

All eyes turned, and Padmé watched Anakin's eyes crease, narrow in a mix of shock and memory as he joined Gandalf, Merry, Pippin and Gimli in turning to a woman Padmé had already zeroed in on. She bore the vision of a tall woman. Slender, adorned in white dress draped with an equally pure white cowl and cloak that seemed of finely made silks. Her golden hair fell in waves down across her shoulders and much of it hidden behind her. Buried within her cloak, as blue eyes full of age and wisdom fell across Anakin and Padmé. Padmé met her eyes and put on a diplomatic smile. Hoping to make good an impression not just for herself, but for the Republic. At that thought the woman smiled, and it almost made Padmé uncomfortable. As though her manner and bearing had been deciphered in but a second to the amusement of this woman. No ill will though, but certainly unsettling in its own kind of way. Without needing any word or information from Anakin or Gandalf, Padmé could tell this woman was from among nobility. She carried herself in much the same way as she had been forced to carry herself back upon Naboo years ago. Yet, to far greater a show of grace as she all but glided towards the small group.

"Oh..." Anakin began dumbly, and Padmé was shaken from her revelry. Instead she sighed and closed her eyes. Shaking her head as she did so.

"Ani." She whispered and bumped him from behind. He shook his head after and cleared his throat.

"Uh, I mean, my Lady Galadriel." He bowed allowing Padmé to recall him saying that name once or twice, but not giving her much details in the brief time he had regaled her with this tale of Fellowship and rings.

"Apologies for being so uh...informal. I guess I never thought I'd see you again. Were I being honest" Anakin anxiously rubbed his hands together as Galadriel smiled a cool, but welcoming smile as she came to a stop before them. She brought one hand to her chest and waved it outward from herself in a sort of greeting.

"I had thought as you had, young Knight. Yet, here we are. The fates we have woven can even after so many years lead to many unknown twists we cannot foresee. So it may seem." Anakin paused digesting what she meant before he nodded thinking he got her meaning.

"I'd guess so. Even still I know you...well I think I know that you and the rest of the elves have other things to attend to." Anakin tried his best to infer his knowledge on the need to enter into the West. Galadriel smiled, seeming pleased by such a thoughtful notice.

"My kin have much to gain from meeting with those who come from so far away. The journey into the West can wait a time longer even for those whom hear the songs of the sea so endlessly." She clearly inferred of herself and Anakin bowed his head again.

"I hope your stay will be much more welcoming than the initial greetings, my Lady. The war makes a bad impression on anyone. Despite what anyone else may say."

"Perhaps," Gandalf interjected moving nearer. "As I said before, my friend, such a thing should not speak for the whole of your people."

"No, no, you're right. As usual." Anakin snorted and Gandalf chuckled. "I guess my main point is that I want everyone here to be comfortable. Old friends and all." Anakin waved his arms out once more.

"Some food would be a nice start!"

"Indeed! I've been saying that for an hour now me lad!" Pippin and Gimli coarsely added causing both Gandalf and Anakin to scoff.

"Ah, but perhaps you remember my grandsons, Knight Skywalker." Galadriel turned and pointed towards two beings. Both male, both tall and broad and carrying features about them familiar but different. He searched his memory and sifted about many peoples he met back on Arda before he swung his head back and snapped his fingers.

"Oh yes! Elladan, and Elrohir! Sorry, it's been a while!" Anakin laughed, inwardly excusing himself. As their meeting before back in Rivendell had indeed been short and brief.

"Ah, the stranger who fell from the heavens has seemingly forgotten the sons of Elrond of Rivendell!" Elladan began, though Anakin couldn't tell whom was speaking at the moment in all truthfulness.

"Do not mind my brother, my Lord. He's too foolish for his own good." The other replied repeating Galadriel's gesture from before, followed by his brother.

"I merely meant that it is sad he does not remember the sons of Elrond! The finest orc hunters in all of Eriador!"

"Perhaps he wishes to forget your foolishness, and by relation myself, Elladan." Elrohir laughed and Anakin joined him feeling more welcomed even as he rubbed the back of his neck.

"I am Elrohir, and this is Elladan. I, unlike this fool, understand your journeys have been long and hard. I mind not, the fact you've likely put us to the back of your mind."

"Not that I meant to I promise." Anakin smirked.

"We believe you." Elladan began again. "After all, who would wish to forget us?"

"Me sometimes, brother." Elrohir jabbed Elladan and the two of them laughed.

"Well, I'm happy that Elrond, well I assume it was Elrond, chose to send you two. I'll be sure that everything goes well for you all while you're here. My best anyways." Anakin continued on somewhat more uncertain than before.

"Ah, then allow us to introduce the last member of the delegation, my friend." Gandalf began and waved over the last member of the delegation.

"This is Tauriel, of the Woodland Realm. She represents the elves there, and King Thranduil. The father of Legolas, as you may or...may not remember." Gandalf chuckled as the woman stepped forward. Padmé noted her green attire, and aesthetic and her quite beautiful features, athletic frame, and fair skin with a bountiful display of reddened hair atop her head. She came forward, this Tauriel and awkwardly committed the same greeting action as the other 'elves' had. Padmé noted them now. Recalling Anakin's statements on their human looks, but pointed ears. Of which they all shared. Though to be fair so did the hobbits to a degree.

"Any friend of Legolas is a friend of mine, my Lady."

"Please, just Tauriel will do fine." The woman, with airy but commanding a voice offered.

"Legolas told me much of your help during the quest with the Ring. He also told me that I could trust you and an Obi-Wan Kenobi?"

"Yes, my Master from my Order. He's busy with matters concerning the Jedi, but I can bring him around to reacquaint with everyone here, and meet newcomers." Anakin offered hoping to make this woman feel more welcome. She smiled and bowed her head. So...mission seemingly accomplished?

"Forgive me if I am too forward, but Legolas told me to speak with the Jedi Order in my time here. As part of this delegation business. Would that be possible?"

"Uh, yeah should be. Though by the Order I assume he meant the Council. Our leading body. I'm sure they'd be more than willing to speak to any and all of you! Especially considering what they know of Arda."

"Which would be what, Knight Skywalker?" Galadriel asked inquisitively.

"Well, just what had happened there. Me and Obi-Wan had to write up reports on the Fellowship, the Ring of course, and what we had to do with it for official war business stuff. Sauron and so forth."

"I see..." Galadriel replied and smiled though Padmé did catch the elf pass Gandalf a glance. Though the older man said nothing nor made any other show. She could sense with her own intuition on these things that something was going on here, but she also chose to say nothing.

"Anakin, my lad."

"Hmm?" Anakin turned to Gandalf.

"Your manners truly are something in need of work." The old man tilted his head to Padmé who bore a smile.

"Oh Force, uh right!" Anakin motioned Padmé forward and brought her beside himself.

"This is Padmé Amidala Naberrie. She's a Senator from the world of Naboo, and represents the Chommell Sector in part. She's a...good friend of mine. As well she has an in depth knowledge of the Republic, and all that fun political nonsense." Anakin intonated. Though, Gimli chortled at Anakin's sarcasm while Padmé rolled her eyes and bowed to everyone.

"It's a pleasure to meet all of you. Ani, has told me about some of you, and on behalf of the Republic it's a pleasure to have such fine people consider joining the Republic if nothing else."

"The pleasure is ours lass!" Gimli cut in.

"The lad and his Master were most welcome. Most of the times at least."

"Don't mind him," Anakin began. "He loves me." Gimli scoffed and waved Anakin off.

"The welcome has so far been eventful. I look forward to exploring the world myself! A whole...planet they call it? A whole one covered in a city! Never could have imagined that." Merry added.

"Yes, very...lively." Tauriel added lowly from the back of the group. Padmé was quick to note her undertone of disinterest.

"There are many worlds within the Republic!" Padmé began.

"Some are like Coruscant. Covered in an entire city sprawl. Others are much more like the world you've come from. Green, and mountainous. My home of Naboo is a very green planet. Fields as far as the eye can see, some mountains, many swamps, and smaller cities of beautiful stonework! Though I am perhaps biased." Immediately Anakin could at least see the room turn and become engrossed with her. He smirked and reveled in how quick she was to take control of a scene, and sell the Republic. For as much as that was worth. But, he was also biased against its lack of action, so he kept his mouth shut.

"Oh, that sounds lovely! Would we have the chance to see these worlds?"

"Well there's a lot of them Pip. I mean, more than any one person could see." Anakin responded. A dim memory of wanting to see every star tickling his mind.

"A few are not beyond our ability I'm sure. Though I am not part of the Diplomatic Services, I think I can perhaps put in a good word?" Padmé offered turning to Anakin.

"That'd be great my...that'd be great!" Anakin caught himself again. Her damn brown eyes nearly made him slip. He flushed red as he cleared his throat, the eyes of the elven queen seeming to twinkle his way.

"As long as the trip there does not contain the same excitement as the last perhaps!" The elf, Padmé and Anakin both believed to still be Elladan spoke. That is, if they hadn't moved at least.

"What are you guys waiting for now? Some of the clones told me that you all helped their wounded, and you have my gratitude for that."

"And mine." Padmé smiled and the company all seemed to wave them off.

"It was nothing beyond our abilities or compassion, young Master." Elrohir spoke for the rest, and they all seemed in agreement. A sentiment that alone did something to warm Padmé's heart. Empathy was not lacking throughout the galaxy, but these people...something was genuine with them, and she could see how those Anakin had met could leave such an impression as they had.

"As to why we're here, you know why, Anakin. To meet with representatives of your Republic." Gandalf began.

"No I mean-"

"As for this room!" Gandalf cut him off, and bore an almost mischievous manner about him which made Anakin roll his eyes playfully.

"We're awaiting for what I was told would be someone from among this so called 'Diplomatic Service.' To arrange board I presume."

"Aye, it has been a long day already!" Gimli added.

"Understandable. Maybe I should see if I can find someone to push the process along." Anakin offered quizzically looking to Padmé for her thoughts.

"I'll make a quick call, Ani. I'll have all the necessary arrival documentation sent to my office and have it filled out for you. That way the Offices of the Diplomatic Service can get you lot to your temporary accommodations."

"You'd do that for us, miss?" Merry asked and Padmé smiled.

"Of course! Any friend or friends of Ani, are friends of mine. To the Republic as well."

"Alas, you've got this fine lass believing you to be a good judge of character! The poor girl doesn't know you perhaps?!" Gimli chortled jabbing at Anakin who smirked.

"You're right, master Dwarf! She's been fooled by me." Padmé rolled her eyes and bowed.

"It would be a pleasure really."

"Then you have my, and the rest of the company's thanks, my Lady." Gandalf smiled and the others all shared thankful expressions or gestures.

"It really is great to see you all again! And some of you for the first time." Anakin offered as he reveled being among those, even if not all, of those he had met with on Arda. The others he didn't know so well weren't so bad either. It was like being back inside the strange tale that world weaved for a while longer. It made him feel happy, giddy even. Almost like a kid. Among friends, and comrades. He would be sure to try and stick with them for a bit, before Padmé and him had other duties to attend to. His heart and mind racing as he imagined two bundles awaiting him at Padmé's apartment.

Though, if he were being fair, perhaps he was delaying that meeting. Just a bit though of course...how scary could babies be? Twin babies…

(Later)

Night fell across the Republic capitol. Despite the flurry of gunships and military vessels that patrolled the skies above, the streams of airspeeders seemed as suffocating as every other day since before the battle had begun. Some swaths of the endless cities remained without power and they were under full military and CorSec patrol. The thought of rioting or looting was seemingly anathema to the powers that be. No room was to be left for such apish activity. Really it was for the best. The poorer rabble that thrived off of any leeway and given freedoms to act out their aggression were best to be kept under control.

These were all passive and stray thoughts, however. Her naturally yellow eyes stared numbly out the viewport window of her airspeeder. She sat in its passenger seat and allowed the low hum of the flying car enter her mind as the lone noise. Beside her in the driver seat sat a droid chauffeur. It was a simple unit and one she didn't even bother to really note. Not even its model or designation was known to her. Only that it drove her and kept driving her. The machine was blissfully quiet, and Arsuna appreciated such. Her mind was numbed to any real thoughts. Especially considering what she was being forced to do...again.

She sighed lowly and Arsuna heard the droid's head swivel her way. Though it said nothing and continued flying. She traced her eyes over the passing metal cityscape of Coruscant's endless sprawl. The government sector was under tight lock, but its lights choked the darkened skies. Whilst she found herself flying over a part of Galactic City known as the 'Strip.' The locals called it such because of the endless streams of bars, cantinas, taverns, clubs of varying style and manner, or other nightlife haunts. During the daytime this place was nothing more than a traffic stop with few shops of need or worth between the need for more liquor. At night, it became a loud pollutant of both sound and sight.

Indeed, as they flew over it she winced at the sudden passing of a meandering floodlight from below that swung back and forth. The streets, or more aptly said, the walkways were teeming with passing beings. All of them sandwiched together, and taking revelry in their survival through the battle.

The airspeeder broke away from the traffic stream it was currently forwarding through and dove down toward a large metal walkway sat between a great many larger spires by circumference. Arsuna looked them up and down and sneered at the sights. They were all topped with varying neon colors and lights. Some pulsated and passed from light greens to loud purples through magenta and so on. Others were topped by screens of similarly neon signs. Showing often vague humanoids figures of women dancing provocatively. Enticing the weak, the lustful and the drunken in. Promising them a night of pleasure and usually only taking all they had in their pockets.

The airspeeder made a cooing sound much like a wild aiwha through the skies. It lowered down onto a large outcropped slab of metal that hung over the great deep into Coruscant's under city. Arsuna again sighed and reached her hand into a hidden sleeve along her dress. There she pulled out several credit chips. She eyed them numbly and with a constriction of her chest. Only several thousand credits lay in her hand. Such a number should've meant nothing to her and her family. Yet, they did, and yet these would be lessened come a few moments time. She was sure of it, and it made her stomach turn.

"Wait here. Anyone tries karking with the speeder take off. I'll call you down when we're ready to go."

"Yes, my Lady Sipillona." The droid replied with stiff and posh a robotic voice. Arsuna popped the door open and it swung upwards revealing her as she pulled herself out. She pulled down white gloves atop her small hands. She bore a red dress in much the same vain as her usual white dress and garb. This one lay across and down her lithe form. It hugged her shoulders but revealed them to the open skies, and it fell to just above her ankles. It clung tight to her back and chest, and the dip of her neckline formed an ample V shape towards her self-admitted small breasts. Though it was a show, nonetheless, and one plenty of men gave audience to. The dress itself was a sort of corset though only in design rather than implementation with various tied strapped at her back that were designed to be simple clasps. Down her chest was a parting of white whilst the rest was of a brilliant and clashing crimson red against her soft blue flesh. Her hair was pulled backward and fell free down her back. Her expertly maintained curls at her sides remained shown, and she prided herself on her appearance. The looks she always received were a victory in and of themselves, but she knew the power of persuasion. Looks alone won more battles than many among her age or station gave themselves credit for. Never had she need to go beyond simply appearing the feminine prize to get what she wanted, and she swore that she never would.

The door closed behind her and she moved on through the airspeeder parking center. Many beings stood all around her. Small groups of four to five talking to one another around their airspeeders, others moving to and from their own speeders towards whichever club or cantina of their pick. Arsuna passed a human male clearly drunk out of his mind. Laughing about who knows what, while he was slouched next to and breathily whispering into the ear of his zeltron companion. The woman was clearly not drunk. Her species having developed a second liver, and were thus renowned partiers. She passed Arsuna a coy smile and wink. Arsuna averted her gaze and rolled her eyes. Assuming the woman to have found herself a gullible young fool to take advantage of.

"Charming." She intoned and made her way onto the main walkway of the Strip's liveliest quarter. It was the definition of crowded. Aliens of all imagination, size and stature, look and manner were passing about. The sheer deafening and drowning sound of all their voices was enough to set her anxiety off. A trait she prided herself on never showing. Even if she did feel her arms shake and chest constrict with a heaviness that threatened to cause her to sweat. Arsuna, however, sucked in another breath and shoved it down.

"Alright, the 'Rancor's Keep.'" She spoke to herself and looked for the club in need of her attention. Arsuna tilted left and didn't see it. Thought she did see a patrol of silent clone troopers guided by a CorSec officer holding what looked to be a trianii...or cathar; she didn't know all cat aliens were essentially the same to her, for questioning of some sort. She felt another wave of nausea sparked by anxiety wash over her. Of course none of these lower leveled workers of the Republic would recognize a higher level member of the Survey Corps.

Regardless, their presence forced her to turn right. As she did she was almost bumped into by a passing houk.

"Watch yourself!" The abrasive and ugly alien demanded as he swerved out of her way.

"Shut up Doulk!" His companion, a little twig of a human man laughed him off and wave an apology Arsuna's way as he and the houk carried on down the walkway. She sneered in response but said nothing as she continued looking for the club in mind. As she scanned her eyes along that route from the alien brute and his companion she found a small purple light. It wound around the underside of what looked to be a sort of metallic awning that jut itself out from the main building. Itself a spire, but this one having a squared base from which to enter into. Clearly a multi-floored establishment.

The light, as she noted before, was purple and it seemed to strobe its way along the length of the canopy before it was followed by a red tinge that was brighter and penetrated the menagerie of other lights seeking to deafen everyone's senses. Hung down from the center of the canopy was a small, and otherwise more mundane neon sign. It showed her target, the 'Rancor's Keep.' A moving picture of a Rancor flashed to the right to the left. On the right it held its arms up over its head looking ready to strike. To the left its hands now held a ridiculously large mug and downed whatever was inside of it. The word 'charming' once more came to mind, but she forced herself not to say it aloud. Instead she sucked in another calming breath and loosed it through shaky lips riddled with unspoken anxiety as she pressed ahead.

She had to dodge through the mixture of people moving about. Many of them projecting the vomit inducing pungent odor of liquor mixed with cologne or perfume. Gaggles of women laughed and screeched at one another, and the men leered in every which way or shouted. Small fights looked about ready to break out between one group or another, were it not for the presence of the troopers and CorSec. The streets, though freely tread once more, were still under the watch of the Republic military. They were and had been in no mood for disquiet following cessation of the battle.

Arsuna made for the front and as she got nearer to it she saw a metal gate that seemed capable of descending into the walkway. It was up and at full attention, blocking all access to the main entrance save for a comically simple rope line. Where stood two men. One of them, a large and husky hiitian who towered over the fully grown human men about the entrance. They bore massive bulging muscles down their arms led down to by shoulder that protruded upwards. Must've been a trait of their species as it gave them more height and more intimidating a demeanor as they loomed over nearly everyone else. As well, they showed a large beak which protruded down as they eyed the line of various people looking to gain entry into the club. A line that Arsuna noted was actually quite long and wrapped out nearer to the next club over. Whilst groups of would be guests stood outside the line seeming ready to wait for their chances later.

Beside the hiitian, whom she guessed to be the bouncer, was a male nautolan. Unlike the bouncer, whom Arsuna also assumed to be male, the nautolan had on a sort of suit. Black and close to their chest and equally black pants that fell down to similarly colored boots. While they had a badge on their chest along the left breast. She assumed it to be for the club. Regardless, this man seemed to be the greeter, and the one who gave you one of those ridiculous glowing stamps along your body to gain all night access.

Before she dared skip the line and approach the nautolan, Arsuna checked around herself. Finding a small diverted path from the same walkway into the alley set between this club and the next open over along her right. She tilted her head hoping to gain a better look, but it was too dark and too much of a hassle to see down from her angle. Instead she merely huffed and pressed a small button found on a nondescript golden bracelet that hung tightly enough to her left wrist. So, she resigned herself, hardened her demeanor, set her eyes and made for the gate dividing the entrance from the walkway. The nautolan looked to be scanning a datapad he had in hand as the hiitian blocked the next in line from accessing the club. When he noticed her nearing him and his totally blackened eyes warped to gain a better view of her. Arsuna glanced left at the line and found some watching her. Casting her dirty looks, and others seeming awestruck. Giving her looks that showed they thought her a stupid girl for approaching. After all, if they were stuck in line then surely she must've been a fool to think she could gain entrance?! How little they knew about what her presence here meant, and how little she cared about any of them. The glares and perplexed scoffs didn't stop the nautolan from grinning at her though. She felt her skin crawl but made no sign of it as she came to the gate just ahead of him.

"I'm here to meet Thracko." Arsuna greeted with a forced but pleasant smile. The nautolan approached.

"Really? Thracko ain't seeing nobody as far as I know pretty thing." Here we go. Arsuna remained smiling and tilted her head. The dark purple hair swayed to the side she tilted, but she didn't break eye contact. Even as she leaned onto the gate.

"Really really?" She mocked and raised her voice. It now sounded as girly and feminine as it did patronizing.

"Because I was called by Thracko himself. To meet him here at this club that he runs. I don't think you wouldn't be aware of that. If you are then perhaps you should call him up."

"Hey Illos, ain't she the-"

"Hold on Roke." The nautolan was quick to silence his clearly more agreeable and aware hiitian friend.

"Illos huh?" Arsuna repeated his name.

"That's my name beautiful. How about you tell me yours and I'll see if Thracko did call for you?" He continued smiling and leering. Arsuna leaned into the gate, and purposefully pushed her chest out. That caught his eyes.

"What if I don't wanna give my name?"

"Well then I can't really call Thracko and tell him who's here now can I?" Arsuna leaned in, and she nudged her head towards herself. The nautolan leaned in and her mouth was near to his ears.

"How about you let me in anyways?"

"Can't do it beautiful. 'Less..." He trailed off and Arsuna was no fool. She simply wanted to see if he would go there. Sure enough he did.

"Unless what?" She maintained her air-headed tone of voice. She heard the footsteps. He hadn't yet.

"Well we could always work out a-" He shut himself up as a shadow loomed over him from behind Arsuna. The nautolan seemed confused and tilted his head up. Before he pushed himself back with shocked an expression.

"It is good to see you have arrived, Mistress!" Arsuna smirked triumphantly and glanced over shoulder to see the massive form of her FLTCH-series battle droid. The lumbering giant bore the look reminiscent of Baktoid Combat Automata designs. It stood twice as tall as a human male, and bore a massive barrel like chest. Layered several times over with the finest blaster bolt resistant durasteel plating that seemed similar in concept to the plating of a B2 series. While both arms that hung low came with three equally massive compartmentalized fingers. Where the wrists sported separate, but connected, ports. From which an array of weaponry could be utilized. A flamethrower, a repeating blaster, a plasma discharge, and even massive blades if things needed to get...old fashioned. Its head was rather small compared to the rest of its towering body, but seen upon it were two glowing reddish photoreceptors, for eyes. They bore the twin lined design seen on B1 battle droids and other from the Baktoid series, even though this one had long ago been designed by the Colicoid Nest. As a final few notes, it showed two massive slabs of that same fine durasteel plating that jut up from its shoulders and protected its head from any side attacks. While its legs showed an inverted makeup, or what some would call a digitigrade leg design.

"The kriff is that?!"

"Oh? What's wrong?" Arsuna allowed her natural voice to come through as she bathed in the clear fear this sad little alien man showed. His hiitian friend also looked on with widened eyes. Most of the line was also shifting and whispering. The fear palpable to her as she presumed them all to be imagining the droid to have been a Separatist model. In a way they'd be right.

"That droid!" Illos stuttered.

"My droid? Oh yes, this is J3-N5. Though I just call him Jaythree. He's my personal assistant and bodyguard."

"Emphasis on the bodyguard, mistress!" The droid, with cheery if deep a voice reminded her. Raising a lone finger to emphasize. Arsuna chuckled and nodded.

"You're right, Jaythree."

"We...well there's no droid allowed in the club." Illos' voice was less disgustingly simple in its dismal attempts to woo her. It was now layered with a tremble, and she found that far more suiting.

"Jaythree, did you know this man here attempted to cajole me?"

"Against your wishes Una?" She rolled her eyes at the nickname she could never program out of her droid, but nodded all the same.

"He had scared me."

"What?! You're the one who pushed your ti-"

"That is enough from you." Jaythree cut him off, and simply stepped through the metal gate. It bent in and cracked off its unseen hinges beneath the walkway surface. A thudding step after another followed as Jaythree menaced the sad little man.

"Hey...hey! Roke!" Illos called to his friend.

"What do you want me to do?!" The hiitian demanded.

"Get a blaster!"

"That would be a very bad idea." Jaythree's baritone rumbled and he raised his arm out and forward. Much as a B2 would, and the blaster port atop his arm primed and made ready to fire.

"Come on now! I didn't mean nothing by it! I swear!"

"I don't know about that." Arsuna stepped over the now broken gate. Noting the line of people backing away and those to the rear were breaking off. Skittering into the walkway crowd as fast as they could.

"What do you say now? How about I have my droid here tear your arms off? If for nothing else, than for trying those sad attempts at coaxing me to please you. I've heard better pickup lines from gammoreans, you sniveling excuse for gizka dung!"

"Shall I bore a hole through his head, mistress?" Jaythree wondered aloud.

"Whoa now!" The hiitian, this Roke cried raising his hand. Arsuna found it amusing to watch. Imagining the slab of flesh had rarely ever come across something bigger and clearly more prepared for a fight than himself.

"Alright, enough!" A new voice came from the entrance of the club. Everyone, save Jaythree glanced or turned its way. Standing there was a well groomed older human man. Seeming in his late thirties with a dark and slicked back head of hair. Only beginning to show a peppering of gray scattered about. He was tall and lean, only sporting a slight pouch to his gut. He was light skinned, and bore a loud red suit common of Coruscant. Straightened shoulders with a golden lining down the side of his torso that led to black belt, matching black leggings and boots.

"Thracko, boss! Thank the Force ya' here! I-"

"Shut the kriff up Illos." Thracko, the man she had been expecting to meet sooner warned. He approached the group and cast a glare that could kill between his two henchmen before turning to the droid.

"Mind getting this sore thumb to stop pointing his blaster at my moron of an employee?"

"Depends on whether I have to hear him talk again?" Arsuna sneered though she still found his shivering hilarious.

"He won't open his mouth again. For the whole night." That was added to by another warning glare. Illos nodded and indeed said nothing.

"Good enough?"

"Hmm." She hummed. "Jaythree?"

"Would be better to make his head as empty as it seems." Her droid intoned. Illos gave a whimper. "But, I am yours to command, mistress."

Arsuna openly laughed this time. An airy and haughty laugh as she ran her gloved hand across the massive forearm of the droid. Prompting it to lower it down and cease priming to fire.

"We aren't so uncivil, Jaythree. If we aren't made to be." She winked at Illos. No trace of that lustful bravado to be found. Good.

"Excellent. Now, if you'd follow me, we can tend to the matter at hand." Thracko motioned to the entrance.

"And my droid?"

"A welcome guest."

"Good to know." Arsuna again beamed at Illos, and he said nothing as she followed Thracko into the club followed by the heavy footsteps of Jaythree.

"Good day to you gents!" The droid called back with a wave of its arm. Both Illos and Roke frowned. Both in fear and in awed wonder as its massive frame dipped low and walked into the club.

"Always thinking with your hydrospanner!" Roke shoved Illos hard. As both then got to work cleaning up and doing their jobs.

The three walked into the main hall. Itself thudding and thumping with a rhythm just beyond them. Loud and abrasive but momentarily buffered and muffled through the layers of walls. Though it was dark inside. Dim lights intended on keeping it as dark as possible lined the ceiling as more neon colored signs were hung. Denoting ways to the offices, which were guarded by two beings, and to the restrooms, or the main floor of the club. Drunk patrons and sad collections of beings stumbled about. Some were tucked into corners. Lips locked in drug or drink fueled displays of wanton desire. Arsuna sneered at it all. Her disdain helped mask the anxiety that was trembling beneath the surface.

"I apologize for that. My men are often times imbeciles." Thracko began.

"Yes I saw that. You could work on that. Their greetings left something to be desired." She agreed. "In fact, perhaps you should upgrade and hire some new help."

"Now that would be tempting. If I did not trust those I work with already."

"I thought trust was hard to come by, for your type?" Arsuna retorted and Thracko smirked and gave a curt chuckle over shoulder.

"Indeed it is. Yet, when your 'help' is as simple and as compliant; even if foolish as my lot, you tend to have easier a time." He observed. She shrugged at the logic all the same. Though she couldn't imagine the headache such fools would cause her. Then again, considering her business perhaps she did know?

"Mistress, this place is absolutely filthy! I recommend you do not touch anything with your hands. Or, your feet. Or any otherwise exposed skin! Neither with your clothes. The cleaning needed would be ghastly."

"Hey! My people keep this place as spotless as can be." It was mostly feigned anger, that Thracko shot back at the lumbering droid.

"If this is what equates to spotless then I am quite afraid to see what 'clean' looks like, sir." The deep tremble of his voice always made Arsuna smile. Had since she was but a girl of five and was given Jaythree as a present by her father. His baritone and robotic warbling voice coupled with his chosen vernacular was always good for a laugh. Helped her learn some words growing up too.

"Rather mouthy for a droid. You keep that thing on a leash?"

"Jaythree is my watchful protector. He ensures that anywhere I'm going is made safe for my arrival. He's been looming around your little club for a few hours actually."

"Ha!" Again Thracko simply laughed. Perhaps he was mildly impressed. She did that to people often. Being the diminutive, lithe and girlish feminine creature that she knew herself to appear, and all.

"Well, I suppose such is to be expected. Though I do find it weird none of my men, saw him lurking about."

"Your men are quite stupid, sir!" Arsuna smirked as Jaythree erupted in his baritone posh manner.

"Is that right?"

"Quite. I traversed the lower levels of the spire your club resides in, and maneuvered up several floors. From there I went about ensuring this was no trap set down for my mistress. As well, I checked your security, and found it lacking in many regards. A very simple thing to do."

"That sounds impossible." Thracko commented over shoulder. Arsuna could practically smell his confused brow. Or, was it disbelief?

"None of the lower levels have an entry or exit onto my floor. I had all such access points removed upon taking control of the club." No, actually with that tone he sounded insulted.

"I never said I walked in, sir. Rather I traversed the side of the spire! The noise created by the crowd obscured me. As well the lights and sounds in the main club hall I'm sure deafened your security. Despite the strength of Black Sun, no one ever comments on the absolute effectiveness of your organization's followers." Jaythree announced and Thracko seemed a bit put off by being so blatantly described as connected with Black Sun. Regardless of whether he liked it or not, he most definetly was connected with them. It wasn't unusual really. Many clubs acted as fronts or meeting places for such gangsters. Arsuna assumed the only reason she received the call from Thracko was out of a sort of mutual respect between politicians on Coruscant and its resident gangster underbelly.

"Indeed you are capable, for a droid as large as yourself. Though I still find your story a bit unbelievable."

"Oh, as you should, sir."

"What's that?" Thracko turned, a cocked and now clearly confused glare in his eyes. "What do you mean?"

"Nothing by it, sir. Only that I may be telling you the truth about how I investigated your...charming abode, or maybe not." Silence passed between them. Thracko glanced Arsuna's way. She chose to simply shrug. Maintaining a smug smirk to her demeanor.

"Strictly speaking, a professional does not share all tricks of their trade." Jaythree added with matter-of-fact a manner. The club beyond the walls thumped and bounced. The sound of some electronically produced music undulating the whole of the spire and filling the silence the three were found in.

"That is certainly one odd droid you have, Miss Sipillona."

"Jaythree certainly is unique." Was her simple and unrevealing answer. Thracko seemed to accept as much and once more led them down the hall. They moved towards a staircase in no time at all, and climbed it. Jaythree moving over three per footfall. Once they reached the second floor they came to a door. Before it stood a single weequay brandishing a blaster at his hip.

"They're with me." Thracko waved him off and the weequay nodded. Though Arsuna would've imagined such a declaration unnecessary from the local Black Sun strongman.

"Alright, so here's the deal-" He began, turning to face her and Jaythree. Who barely fit in this smaller hall.

"What happened was that this idiot came in just an hour after the Republic lifted its security lock down. No problem for us. Usually he's more than agreeable. However, today he's a real charmer." Arsuna hid the fact that her anxiety once more rippled inside. She felt a sudden renewed wave of heat strike her, but she maintained her outward composure.

"The guy hasn't stopped drinking since his arrival! How he's still alive I have no inclination. Better still he's made a mess of the private booth he paid for, and the amenities surrounding it."

"How much?" Arsuna asked with narrowed eyes.

"Three thousand credits. Plus another for his unpaid tab."

"He didn't pay his tab?!" Arsuna let her demeanor fall, but immediately recoiled and reset herself. Even if she felt anger charge up her back into her shoulders.

"He pay?" Thracko asked. The weequay shook his head to the question.

"No." Was Thracko's simple reply. Arsuna closed her eyes and fought against the irritation she felt. Of course he would do this. Of all days too! The minute the battle ends he's once more killing himself with drink, and in a Black Sun club of all places. The name Sipillona so utterly besmirched. Her teeth ground unheard and unseen by all. Before she heaved a hopefully steadying breath. It barely helped.

"Show me to him, please." Thracko nodded and the doorway opened.

Once opened the three were assaulted by those same thumping noises, but louder. Arsuna cringed but followed Thracko through as Jaythree had to turn sideways to squeeze in after her. The upper floor was a landing that followed the full length of the massive main dance floor and bar below. Along the walls with security access points from several doors like the one they had used, and a lone staircase guarded by two thuggish trandoshans.

Strobe lights flashed in crazed a manner. They seemed more flood-light like...Arsuna wasn't sure, she was no club attendee. Regardless, they streamed and swirled from color to color across the floor and the people crammed into one another. Moving and basking in the combined heat of their bodies and the debauchery of their attendance. All of them perhaps letting loose days of anxiety and fear from the battle. Nonetheless, the floor was a chaotic mess and Arsuna was happy to be away from it.

Instead, she glanced about the second floor as Thracko led her and Jaythree right from the doorway.

Hugging the rails overlooking the main dance floor were set many booths. Some of which had personalized dividers. Many such booths sported love seats or otherwise curved and loudly colored plush seating. Many of which were already occupied by a variety of people of varying look and manner. Some seemed business oriented, though blowing off steam. To be honest, Arsuna based such off of their demeanor alone. Since nearly all here were dressed for the simplistic and revealing. Many humans sat at their tables and seemed deep in conversation. As to what, she didn't know. While others had seated falleen men guarded by trandoshans and nikto. The two she saw seemed to be listening to a devaronian about...something.

Regardless, everyone else was somewhat irrelevant. Arsuna had her own table to attend, and she could tell which before they came to it. It was a booth with some more dividers between it and the others set off against the opposite wall rather than next to the guardrails. Less conspicuously though were the unamused and unimpressed twi'lek and rodian watching it. Blocking anyone from getting too close, or anyone from leaving it.

"That one, I assume?"

"Sure is." Thracko nodded through the music and lights. Arsuna steeled herself and let the simmering anger boil inside. As the three trampled over to it Thracko nudged the two guards away and they moved back to the rail facing the booth. Out of ear range. Arsuna came about and peered within and saw him. Her eyes softened even if only by an unnoticeable fraction.

"Guess he finally lost consciousness." Her guide offered offhandedly.

"May I?" Arsuna ignored Thracko. The man motioned her into the booth and stepped back. Jaythree took up a posture now mirroring the gangsters. Blocking them entry and perhaps unsettling them a little. However, Arsuna had no intention of leaving through the gaggles of Black Sun thugs. Nor leaving debts unpaid.

She shimmied herself onto the seat and across it. Her back brushing the leather to the seat before she was but a foot or two away from him. His head slumped to the table, loud and abrasive snores cutting through the music, and the stench of permeating liquor filling her nostrils. His purple hair, lighter than hers, was matted and wild from his excess, and his face given a deeper discolored blue hue. Indicating his drunkenness. He seemed almost peaceful in such a state, and Arsuna dreaded having to hear him speak. Asleep he was tolerable, and as he had once been. Awake, he was a nightmare, and every bit what their father thought of him. So, she hardened her eyes and jabbed her right foot up into his leg beneath the table.

His knee flew up and struck the table throwing everything atop it, including his head and arms up. He swung up with a start though his eyes opened through slits and a groan passed from him. A cough loosened from his maw and he swiped at the air. Trying to get the lights or smell away? Maybe both, but it didn't figure much. Through squinted eyes he glared at the Black Sun goons, and seemed to wholly ignore Jaythree in front of them.

"I told ya'll to kriff yourselves! My credit is good!"

"Pompadio." Arsuna lowly called, though through grit teeth. The growl caught his attention, and Pompadio turned her way. His short and messy hair obscured just a bit of his eyes and tickled his eyelashes. He rubbed them aside and tried to wake up a little.

"Ah, the prodigal one! My sister has come for me everyone!" Pompadio cried raising his emptied glass. Upon noting its emptiness Arsuna watched him frown and slam it down uncaringly.

"Pray tell, what brings your mighty self from up high?! To deign to meet with your lowly brother must be so terribly hard for you!" Pompadio mocked her. His tone biting and gravely. Not to mention slurred, but far less than one should have expected. His eyes were glassy and yes, clearly he was drunk. However, years of being such had made him a sort of...what was it? 'Functioning alcoholic.'

"What are you doing here?"

"Doing where, my beautiful sister?" He smirked through his feigned confusion.

"Here. At this club. You shouldn't be in one since you're supposed to be recovering. Let alone in a Black Sun spot."

"Oh? Is that who runs this POODOO DEN?!" Pompadio cried and caught the stink eye from many nearby club goers.

"Keep your damn voice down!" Arsuna growled and leaned into him. He only chuckled and sifted about the table through the many glasses.

"Welp, to answer one of your questions; I'm done trying to 'recover.' I don't have a problem to recover from, and I don't appreciate you or anyone else telling me otherwise. I have credits, and I'm an adult!"

"Oh really?" Arsuna snorted. "You sure do a great job proving it."

"I know, I know. I'm a disappointment. Nothing I haven't heard before. If that's all you're here for go back to dad, or whoever sent you here to retrieve me and give em' a message."

"What would that be?" Arsuna crossed her arms as Pompadio leaned in.

"Go kriff yourself." He whispered and laughed. The smell of liquor on his breath truly all encompassing.

"You're hopeless sometimes, Pompadio."

"Yep. Glad to be of valuable contribution to Sipillona Trade!" He again raised a glass but slammed it down. The force shook the table and Arsuna hid her flinch from the impact.

"Indeed. Shouldn't you be back on Pantora with Obali? Actually running the business?"

"I thought that was your job, sister? After all, you've taken the reins in that department. Ignoring the fact dear old dad would stroke out if he knew. But, lucky lucky you, he's a bed bound shriveled shura fruit!" His venom was only made worse by his drunken state, and Arsuna felt her chest constrict. Anger and a flood of other emotions nipping at her.

"Besides," Pompadio carried on. "Last I heard Obali was taking a vacation to Denon, or Axxila, or Bestine? Don't remember, and really I could care less what Obali does." The eldest brother was now also missing in action. Arsuna had to close her eyes and steady herself through the anger she was feeling. The three of them had not been close. Obali, the actual stated owner and CEO of SipTrade was a debauched mess. Having long since lost any semblance of care or concern for his younger brother or even younger sister. His hatred for their father was as steeped as Pompadio, but perhaps less expressive.

Pompadio, on the other hand showed no quarrels nor qualms in decrying their father, Amacellino Sipillona. Pompadio was officially the Chief Operating officer, the COO, of the company. Neither Pompadio nor Obali took their positions seriously. In spite of the animosity bred there by their father they had both inherited the business. Arsuna was seen as unfit by their old fashioned patriarch. Yet, despite the old man she did in fact manage it. The survival of her family's name and influence meaning more to her than her father's foolishness. That, and the apathetic disdain of her brothers.

Of the two, Arsuna had always liked Pompadio more. Especially when they had grown up together. He would play the knight come to save the princess. Of course being her. Then she would duel him in a fanciful fencing manner, and both would be terrible at it. Laughing at their poked ribs and bruised egos. Then they grew up, and the resentment that had long taken root came to the surface. Now she no longer recognized Pompadio, nor Obali. All that was left of the name Sipillona, was SipTrade, and herself.

"Do you realize what you've done?" Arsuna finally managed to get out of herself. Pompadio allowing their silence to go on as he ran his hands over the cold table.

"Enlighten me, oh wise one."

"You trashed this booth and made a mess of this place. Your tab is also enormous! How did you even wrack up a thousand credit tab?"

"The finest liquors and wines do not come cheap, dear Una." She narrowed her gaze. In time long past Pompadio had called her by that nickname. No longer did she find it endearing. Only from the vocabulator of Jaythree did she hear it spoken without menace or spite. In fact, the droid had been the only thing given by her father from her childhood that remained an object of fondness.

"Why didn't you bring any credit to pay?" Arsuna sighed and asked.

"Why don't you open up another credit line for me?"

"Because I can't help you. Your credit was shot two years ago because you don't repay your debts. That and you embezzled money. Quite openly too. Don't dare turn this on me!"

"Mrs. High and Mighty! So powerful and wise! She who shadow runs a once mega corporation and also sits in a cushy government job bought decades ago by daddy dearest! Yet, you can't tell my creditors to kark themselves? What? You haven't managed to find the right bureaucrat to fellate?"

"Kark yourself!" Arsuna spat back and in turn slammed her hand on the table. Jabbing a finger his way.

"I've never done any such thing to get where I'm at! Father may have gotten me where I am, but I still do what I can with my time to make a difference for this family and its legacy! While you sit here in the reek, soiling yourself in liquor and your failing bladder! You hopeless drunken idiot! Time and again I've had to bail you out from these farces you drop on my head! You rack up debt after debt, you bleed me and the company of thousands of credits every single day and you accuse me of being a whore?! Kriff yourself, Pompadio! You're every bit as useless as father says!" Arsuna hadn't noticed her chest heaving, nor the tears that had fallen down her cheeks. Her nostrils were flared and she was shaking as thoughts and feelings long unmentioned or unaddressed had managed to pass through the unseen dam.

For his part Pompadio was now silent. His eyes looking down into another empty cup. His features were forlorn and empty. No expression nor rebuke left his mouth and the music beyond was the only thing that filled the silence left after her outburst.

"Maybe you should just let em' kill me then."

"What?" Arsuna demanded as she angrily swept the wetness from her cheeks. Unspoken and unremarked upon.

"If I'm such a burden then let me drink my drink, have my fun and come what may. Black Sun, Hutt Cartel, swoop gang, or drunken thug alike let them put a blaster bolt through my head after I've had my fill." Pompadio cast her an uncaring and mirthless smile.

"No. No I don't think I will." Arsuna sniffled and let a long sigh release as she brought herself more or less back under control.

"If you're going to be killed I'll do it myself. For now, get up, or I'll make Jaythree drag you to your apartment." Pompadio dropped his cup, but luckily didn't seem in any mood to argue anymore. Perhaps her words having affected him more than the drunkard would be willing to admit.

"Whatever. This club is poodoo anyways." Pompadio pushed the table hard and rattled everything atop it. Arsuna shirked back but waited before rising to a stand. Pompadio was half walking half stumbling as he reached Jaythree.

"What's up metal-lump?!" His chosen name for a droid he had once admired as much as her. Jaythree turned and observed Pompadio. His head tilting with a whir.

"Master Pompadio, you're drunk."

"Wow. I didn't know they made Jedi droids! Ya' must be a mind reader!" Pompadio chuckled quite boisterously to his own joke.

"Jaythree, escort him out."

"I can wal-"

"As you wish, mistress." Jaythree acknowledged.

"Hey!" Pompadio lurched back, but Jaythree, with one hand grappled Pompadio whole and hoisted him up.

"Hey! Put me down you karking tin can!" He writhed and smacked, but the metal only clanged. Arsuna ignored him and moved toward Thracko. The human leaned over the guardrail and watched his countless lust filled, odor inducing and intoxicated undulating mass of partiers.

"I take it you've coaxed that idiot out?"

"In so many words." Arsuna replied leaning herself into the rail but turned to Thracko. He drew in a breath and met her stance.

"The damages and cost?" Arsuna asked as she pulled the credits hidden about her dress and produced four, thousand credit chips. "Three for the damages. I assume the seat, and the cups?"

"And the bar." She narrowed her eyes, but Thracko shoved a thumb over his shoulder. There against the far wall was the upper floor bar. An attendant was cleaning what seemed to be a shambled mess of glass and liquid splattered about the bar top and the floor. Arsuna shook her head all the same.

"I see. Well the four there should cover the damages and the tab. Oh and this..." She paused and pulled another thousand credit chip. Flipping it in her fingers she held it out. Thracko eyed it cautiously.

"What for?"

"Consider it a thank you. For calling me, and your due diligence. Which I'm hoping translates to a sense of silence regarding this whole affair." Thracko hummed and took the credit chip. A sniffle passed his nostrils and he shrugged.

"Makes no difference to me. Far as I know, guy's just another drunk with a rich sister. Happened to be in the neighborhood." Thracko assured.

"Then we understand each other. Which also means it's time for me to leave." She declared.

"Agreed. You're free to go the way we came. Nobody will bother you." He gave a curt laugh and returned to overlooking the dance floor.

"Especially not Illos. Probably soiled himself. Nautolan idiot." He laughed further. Arsuna shook her head and turned. Following closely after Jaythree with her captured brother in his hand. Barely resisting and more grunting simply to annoy them both.

When they did reach the main door both Illos and Roke jumped away from them. Arsuna soaked in their fear. Allowing her outward icy manner to once more take full control. She passed them demeaning and controlled a smirk, and said nothing.

In a matter of time they reached the airspeeder where Jaythree threw Pompadio inside.

"Are you comfortable, Master Pompadio?"

"Snug as a gammorean in dung." Her brother shrugged. Arsuna rolled her eyes and took the passenger seat as she had before.

"Jaythree, the speeder is a bit too snug for you. Find yourself back to the apartment."

"Of course Mistress! Happy flying, Master Pompadio."

"Don't fry yourself in a power coupling, Force forbid you make me happy." Jaythree cocked his head to that, but said nothing as he closed the door and left the drunk to his weary eyed daze.

"To Pompadio's apartment. It should be in your computer."

"Yes, Mistress Sipillona." The driver droid replied and primed the speeder.

"Oh, you had received a message during your errand, Mistress." Arsuna was already leaned into the speeder viewport and kneading her weary brow.

"From who?"

"I am unsure, Madam. Merely one of your assistants from the Survey Corps. They have received an important communique from a member of the Diplomatic Services. A Delegate Koll." Her eyes opened from their tired closure and she turned to the droid.

"Koll? You sure that was the name?"

"Undoubtedly, Mistress. The datapad awaits you at your office. At least, that is what your assistant informed me of." Silence passed and the speeder lifted off into the air. Her chest again constricted as a looming anxiety filled her. Out five thousand credits for her brother, but up one communication from her one big gamble. She needed that system to open up, and she needed it quick. The freighter's and their cargo could only wait so long. Enough payment to last a few months if necessary and that was it. Exclusivity rights for SipTrade between two of the super-lanes would mean economic power rivaling that of the Trade Federation. She needed it. Her family needed it and SipTrade needed it.

So, she plastered her normal demeanor to herself again. Straightened how she sat and leaned into the chair of the speeder. There was more work in need of doing. In spite of and to spite her brothers, and her father if need be.

---

The usual show of the nighttime glimmered and gleamed across this world. Though, perhaps it had for the first time in some days returned to normal. Sauron mused at least, as his eyes turned leftward and stared emotionless out a massive window toward the vastness of city beyond. Towers, lined with holes and smoldering debris, buildings collapsed and portions covered in darkness as their 'power' had yet to be restored following the cessation of the combat that had engulfed the world for days. The fluttering of many uncounted lights passed as streams. Like glowing rivers in the night sky. As speeders flew in preordained lanes among the high spires and towers. So soon after so terrible a battle the mortal masses sought some measure of 'normalcy.' Amusing in a way and at the same time assuring. Mortals were just as simplistic in manner and attitude here as upon Middle-Earth. There was in fact no great mystery at least where it involved their mannerisms and minds.

However, Sauron's attention was turned inwards. The building he now moved through was a thing beyond measure. A temple, as much as a palace that put even his old fortresses and those of his Lord before him to shame. A thing of prestigious glimmering metal in daylight. One that he had seen before the setting of the far sun into the distant horizons. The coming night shone it to be a thing of glinting majesty as great lights from the lower depths below shone upward upon it. Turning it into a goliath of metallic craftsmanship that commanded all who could see to look upon it, and be awed. The 'Palace of the Republic,' as he had been informed it was called. Such a foolish thing, such a pathetic attempt to hide what this marvel of grandeur was! Something of opulence and denoting of great and almighty power. A palace, from which to rule, and preside over all those beneath you in stature as in standing. Sauron inwardly found himself in the slight bit jealous of such a marvel of construction. Fit for a Lord of Men and all other such things indeed.

As he followed an escort of two troopers covered in the standard white uniform streaked in crimson colors like that of blood, two in front and two behind, Sauron remembered that he was here to meet with the recently returned 'Palpatine.' Sidious wished to have dinner, and Sauron was not one to let such a critical moment pass him by. It was begun, and he would see it begun in earnest as he silently trekked in the flesh of the witch through the magnificent grandeur of the palace.

"This way, ma'am." Sauron ignored the use of the term and followed the trooper towards a large steel door. Sauron noted the presence of men garbed in crimson armor, bearing equally crimson cloaks, and steel staffs, guarding either side of this entrance as the troopers neared. Presenting him as they did.

"The Chancellor's guest." The trooper began simply and presented some manner of credentials to the guard who slowly and silently seemed to review them.

"Do you ever intend on killing that old fool?" The witch finally spoke up. Sauron loosed the faintest of sighs, inaudible to all but him.

"Alas, I had thought myself free of you for the moment, witch." He retorted inwardly against Vica. For her part he sensed her snort.

"Oh well forgive me for intruding on your aimless walking through this vast empty building!" She mocked. "Now, back to my main point. Couldn't we just kill him? Here and now! You and I are invincible, we cannot die, at least unless he can rip this ring from our hand right?" Sauron's sight was pulled to the ring upon their shared left hand as it dimly shone beyond all but the most adept perception.

"Perhaps that would be possible. Indeed it is." Sauron relented tilting their head shruggingly.

"Then why not do it?! All caution, all scheming and the pointlessness of waiting to the wind! Grab him by the throat and kill him! Toss the galaxy he's wrapped around his fingers into chaos! No Supreme Chancellor, no shadowy Lord Sidious to command the fools in the Separatist Council, and sweet chaos from which to stab out into and take control of!" Sauron cringed outwardly as her vision of the galaxy without Palpatine flashed across his mind. Perhaps she had merit in her idea, but it lacked what it was he was actually looking for.

However, before he could respond the doors were opened and the guards sidestepped to face against one another in a sort of show of reverence. The troopers also stepped to the side and formed a line on either side of him.

"Proceed inside, ma'am." The same trooper from before offered and Sauron cast him a glaring look. The brown eyes of the witch boring into him even as he remained unmoved. Though the Dark Lord reached out and sensed his shock at her piercing gaze.

The Dark Lord moved ahead though. As he passed by the doors they were shut quickly thereafter in his wake. Within this new room were stood to the far wall two more of these crimson men whom the Dark Lord paid no mind and instead moved toward a large table. It was ovular but angular coming to a sort of point at its far ends whilst being clearly capable of seating at least twenty men by his own estimate. It was sleek and cool to the touch as he approached placing his fair worn hand upon the table. He noted with observant eyes the placement of simple plates with ornate designs fashioned into the metal that they were made with. A swirling but indented design of twisted vines it seemed, and the maiar thought it quaint that no matter the mortal society such a design seemed commonplace. Further from him; toward the wall where these guards lounged, a large opening to a terrace was set with silken drapes gracing either side just behind the guards. Gusts of wind fluttered and waved them about, where beyond was the open vast skyline of the planet, and the busier aspects of its manner in the distance.

"Your vision is limited." Sauron finally replied to the witch after making his observations. Inwardly he spoke and outwardly remained fixed upon the open terrace.

"You don't like much of any of my ideas. I'm used to that, but this one I really think has merit! You kill him and the whole galaxy will be thrown into chaos. He's built everything and brought everyone around himself! He's the karking linchpin of the entire rotten ship! From there we could take control of pockets everywhere. Utilize your powers and my own, to the fullest of extents!"

"An admirable thought, but not one that fits within my own designs." He offered to as she fell into a long exasperated sigh within their shared mind.

"You say that all the karking time too! I have yet to hear any concrete notes or plans so far! Your plans this, your plans that! Every time I ask for some information I get generalized ideas! Korriban, and Arda seem to be your only real objectives! Beyond your incessant reading! What even are we doing about that cloning business?!"

"There is much that is yet to be done. You do not have foresight." The Dark Lord began sensing her trembling in her ever present wrath.

"You calculate the next murder to be, and you commit to it with unwavering nerve and expectancy, but there when you've reached the end of that goal you are left wanting. It is not that you have poor ideas, and those you deem worthy and deserving of death do not deserve and should not be killed. It is that when a murder should be committed in this critical juncture we should know as to why and how it will meet our needs going forward. Beyond the simple annihilation of an enemy. This Sidious will die, when it is his time to do so. In that time I...we will have succeeded in a part of my plan."

"Care to share more on said plan?"

"Not particularly. As I've made it clear to you witch, it is for the protection of the plan. You shall come to see my vision when the doom of our benefactor is at hand."

"Doom?" She repeated, but Sauron said no more on that matter as he felt a thrum echo through the Force. He tilted his head to the right and another small door lay open. The thud of footsteps neared from beyond there.

"Hush now, witch. I have word work in need of doing." Vica harshly scoffed in retort.

"Be my guest. I'd like nothing more than to not have to speak to that false 'Sith Lord.'" Sauron remained silent and waited as the steps neared.

---

Walking through the waiting open door Palpatine sighed aloud and held his hands out at his side.

"Apologies for the wait, my Lord. I have only just arrived myself!" He laughed and noted the figure draped in the flesh of the Vica woman. He observed her skin seemed more alive, even if naturally pale. Her hair bore a strange style to it, and the eyes were dark, but did not show the unnatural fire and dark slits as they had their last meeting.

"I certainly hope I have not kept you." Palpatine went on smilingly and motioned to the seat beside the Dark Lord as he rounded the table and came to his seat opposite them. His own back facing the terrace behind himself. The creature eyed the seat and then back to the Chancellor before it took up the offer and sat down looking directly across from the Sith Lord.

"My wait was not long, Sidious." Sauron; he presumed, replied. Palpatine chuckled and waved his hand about.

"Please! Do call me Palpatine!" He went on laughing lightly as he waved the guards off to gather the meal.

"I do not mind being called my official Sith designation, but it is quite jarring. I have been Palpatine for quite some time. I almost forget my title myself. Oh, I do hope you are hungry!" Palpatine quickly changed the subject as the Dark Lord eyed him quietly.

"I have very little need for food."

"You can certainly still enjoy some though can you not?"

"Yes."

"Then we are settled on the matter then!" Palpatine carried on with his overt show of hospitality. As he continued chuckling warmly the guards returned leading a small procession of droids that warbled through the air by their small repulsors underneath them. They brought many trays of assorted goods. Fine dishes from across the Core, Inner-Rim and some Mid-Rim cuisine like that found on Naboo. Meats, and breads, vegetables and fruits. A pot of stew that Palpatine couldn't quite recall the name of from Corellia filtered into his nostrils and he felt himself come alive with a hunger he had not known himself to be harboring.

"Hmm, it does smell delicious. I do hope you'll come to agree, my Lord."

"It is certainly an assortment." Sauron replied watching the droids drop the many platters, dishes, pots, kettles and wares. One of which went about taking his own plate and setting meats, cheeses, and vegetables across. Some of which Sauron seemed to recognize. Palpatine had watched the expression of his fellow Lord barely change as they went on watching the droids. For his part Palpatine placed a napkin at his lap and set himself gracefully. Showing his manners even if ready to fill his stomach. He hummed happily, and made sure to watch Sauron from the corner of his eyes. As the Dark Lord tilted his head. Causing the woman's hair to wave about.

"You are in harmonious a mood, Palpatine." Sauron noted, and made Palpatine smirk as he used his public name. How courteous.

"Oh but why shouldn't I be?! The excitement of the day came to an end with a great success for the Republic, and a humiliating defeat for the Separatists and their leaders! The Jedi are victorious, the Supreme Chancellor remains alive and on Coruscant to lead the Republic. The world is set to begin rebuilding as soon as possible at that. All is right with the galaxy, my Lord."

"Yet, all of these things you held control of yourself. If not by your direct word then by your unspoken intent. All events have certainly played out as you desired." Sauron intuited and Palpatine chuckled again.

"Of course. Though there are always...unknowns when such vast plans come together. Even I cannot guess them all or plan for each one."

"The battle was very large, and quite monstrous in size and importance. Laying siege to an enemy's capitol is a sure sign of weakness, is it not?" Sauron wondered aloud.

"Perhaps, but it was a sneak attack. One that was only allowed because of deception. And, the Republic repelled the attack spectacularly I might add." The Sith went on as his own plate was prepared before him.

"I hope it has not troubled you, Lord Sauron." Palpatine began in earnest now. His mind raising stern walls, and sensing outwardly from himself as he purposefully smiled Sauron's way.

"You had full control of this battle. You were the instigator of it. I have wondered since its beginning to what end was it begun?" Sauron began and Palpatine eyed him as the womanly visage awaited the droids to pour a glass of fine Belderonian wine.

"I have not yet come to know or understand why you should instigate such an action against your own capitol."

"Don't I have multiple of those?" Palpatine countered with a chuckle. Raising his own poured glass with a smirk. He took a long whiff of the bountiful scent of berry that rose from his glass.

"A fine vintage, my Lord." He sipped form his glass as Sauron raised his own glass in the hands of the woman he wore, and tenderly took a single sip.

"Indeed. Very fine. Though your evasion is evident." Sauron noted. While Palpatine smiled and nodded raising fork and knife as a slab of nerf steak was placed onto his plate.

"Is it so obvious?" Palpatine chortled. "Then, I am not alone in keeping secrets, my Lord. I should like to know myself why you left your apartment while I was indisposed?" The Dark Lord of the Sith now wondered aloud. To the now tilted head of his guest.

"Should you now?" Sauron did not rebuke or lie. That was not entirely expected but not beyond the realm of possibility either. In fact Palpatine noted it. Surely this Sauron was wholly unafraid of him. As previously noted, Palpatine could see now just how deeply arrogant and sure of himself this Dark Lord was. He would use that if possible. Arrogance could be, and was usually quite blinding. He smirked silently.

"Of course!" Palpatine began again. "I had figured you would wait out such an extraordinary affair inside the apartment with all those holobooks and data chips. What, with all of the documentaries and luxuries I've gifted you. To see you left the apartment does concern me. It makes me question, just what exactly compelled you to leave?"

"Does it truly matter? Or, are you afraid?"

"Afraid?" Palpatine let a hint of menace loosen even if he sensed it would do little.

"Afraid that I am utilizing the time you created? Using the gap in your own sight and waiting watch to do what need be done for my own ends and gain? Yes, fear is the ultimate drive for men, mortal or otherwise. Mortal men, such as yourself. Fear of what another may do to gain or build power. Alas, 'Supreme Chancellor' I was indeed struck by the sights of this battle. I sought to experience it for myself." Sauron explained with the feminine voice of his host as he sipped more wine and lazily plucked at a serving of grapes at his dish.

"You wished to just 'see the sights?' I find that hard to believe." Palpatine scoffed and took a bite of his steak. He groaned in elation at the taste and texture making sure to show his lackadaisical and uncaring manner. This Dark Lord hopefully to take the bait…

"You assume as much yourself, 'Sidious.'" Palpatine smirked thinly as Sauron showed a side of pettiness. Also useful to know.

"I am, but a Lord from a far away world not yet to see such 'wonders' as your ships and weapons." False humility dripped from Sauron. "The technology upon this world is already so vast. To see what war is like, and to experience it's full breadth?! Why should it be for any other reason that I leave the confines of your finely groomed jailers cell, but for a leisurely stroll? As I said; to take in the sights."

"I take it that means that is all I shall garner from you on the matter, my friend?" Palpatine chuckled, and watched Sauron's meat-suit smile back.

"Very perceptive, my Lord." Sauron smirked broadly. The Chancellor in unspoken retort.

"Very well. Keep your secrets. So long as it was nothing that can or will lead unwanted eyes to me. To you of course, but through you, to me."

"Death rained down so freely, as like a torrential cloud sweeping down across the plains. If another blade of grass, or five, or even ten should find themselves made wet by a leaking bucket of water during such a downpour, who should notice from where the water came?" Palpatine paused, musing upon the analogy and chuckled quite prominently after.

"That is an apt point, my Lord. I certainly hope they deserved it."

"Whom?" Sauron wondered. Palpatine furrowed his brow and narrowed his gaze. Until he looked into the brown eyes Sauron wore and perceived a dark undertone of humor. In turn Palpatine shook his head.

"'Who' indeed, my Lord. I can see the battle did nothing to lower your mood or raise your ire. If anything it seems to have only improved your manner. Beyond your...stroll, I do still hope your time was not made troublesome by the whole affair."

"It was curious to see unfold. Knowing; perhaps singularly, as to the heart of why the battle was taking place. Or, more correctly, the how. The why is what still eludes me."

"You wish me to share?" Sauron turned silent, and Palpatine watched a range of expressions cross the face he wore.

"No. I suppose the reason does not matter in the end. What matters is that the battle commenced, and a great many changes are sure to follow in its wake. A pivotal moment in this war regardless of outcome or interpretation be it from within or out. Truly, it doesn't matter, so I don't suppose I should care." Not exactly what Palpatine had expected to hear. As such he remained quiet and staring for a moment before he shook himself lightly and hummed.

"You have a point. It has come and gone. Many things have changed, and yet many things have not. What comes next must work from the battle as the starting point of affairs. I should suppose."

"So, you do have a point to it?" His guest noted. Palpatine chuckled and nodded taking another bite of his steak.

"It had one. Yes."

"Then it would do you well to achieve the ends intended from such a spectacle. Beyond a fine show of fire, and many lights."

"Perhaps that was the only reason, Lord Sauron?" The Chancellor cackled, but Sauron seemed unimpressed by the jest.

"Doubtful, Lord Sidious."

"Ah, it was worth a try." Palpatine continued as he swigged his wine once more. Leading Sauron to copy him and take a bite from a biscuit along his own plate.

"Oh, this does remind me," The Chancellor began after placing his glass down. "I have received notice of the arrival of a delegation representing a planet that may potentially join the Republic." Palpatine offhandedly went on cutting through his steak. For his part Sauron's visage silently observed him with a sideways stare.

"The Chancellor is often times asked to meet with such delegations and their dignitaries. While it may seem in some respects unnecessary for me to do so, I am always happy to do it. A good first impression can often times mean the difference for the Diplomatic Service and their efforts in winning over a new planet or system into the fold. Yet, I had thought about leaving it to others this time. After all I am oh so very rattled by the week." Palpatine went on and smiled Sauron's way as he gingerly bit into a small portion of his steak.

"What made you change your mind?" The feminine voice asked dripping in the hidden power of the one who spoke.

"Who says that I have?" Palpatine countered with a chuckle.

"Your mannerisms and phrasing, Sidious." Again Palpatine chuckled as his fellow Lord dropped the nicety of using his common name. He relented and nodded with a knowing smile.

"Well I am far too open a holobook it seems. Yes, I have chosen to meet with this delegation in a few days time or so. I had changed my mind upon noticing which world they came from. That being, yours. Arda, and they sent quite the number of representatives. Eight in total if I remember correctly. An interesting assortment of names." Palpatine went on recalling their names as he could and taking a bite out of some manner of bread. Glancing upwards Palpatine could see the Dark Lord's eyes narrow ever so subtly. A dark sort of shadow seeming to form underneath the brow as the being glowered in silence.

"Perhaps some of them you would recognize?" Palpatine offered with a continued smile.

"I have already felt the coming of one, Sidious. I had felt their arrival in the midst of that battle you orchestrated."

"Ah, I see. Yet, you do not seem as enthused at their arrival!" Palpatine chuckled down another sip of wine.

"Anyone and everyone from so odd a world as yours I eagerly welcome to the heart of the galaxy. What wonders they can share or ideas they can offer! I had given thought to the idea of asking you if you wanted to meet with them? In a sort of underhanded kind of meeting, of course. Seeing as these are part of the victors in the last war. A war you had instigated and lost, but still..." Palpatine tested Sauron. testing the waters, seeing just how far he could actually prod. As such, he watched the glowering eyes of the woman darken and narrow at his insinuations, but the being that lay within still managed to contain itself. Even as the Sith Lord felt a tremor of anger reverberate through the Force as a shaking undulation of wrath.

"One among them is someone you should not be flippant around. He walks with many names, and bears the look of an old man. Gandalf is the name he is most familiar for. Others are Mithrandir, and Olórin. You should take great care when speaking with him."

"Oh?" Palpatine cocked a brow. "So you say I should meet with them?"

"What I think or say on this matter is irrelevant. What will matter is your prerogative, and so far it seems to be your desire to meet with this delegation. They will come and maybe they shall seek to join into your Republic. Though I have my doubts."

"And why is that?" Palpatine asked as Sauron took another ginger swig of the wine provided him.

"I would imagine that they are come to the Republic because of the alliances made with those Jedi who rode alongside and aided Elessar, or Aragorn, however, you should know his name." Palpatine noted the disdain in his fellow Lord's taken voice.

"Elessar should, I think not so willingly bind his people nor those of all of Middle-Earth to this Republic. He has proven himself slow…methodical even. I would imagine this delegation to be a review on their part. To see the measure and worth of you and your people without much care to whatever you or your lot may promise them."

"You mean to say none of them would be tempted to favor the Republic for say...gifts or promises of luxury? Surely I could...infer a gift of some measure one of them would find very pleasing?" Palpatine offered though in truth he did not know. Rather, he wanted to hear what Sauron had to offer in this regard. Surely something?

"I know not all the names of those Mithrandir brought with him, but I should imagine that they would all of them be in some way accountable to the thoughts and needs of Elessar. If that is the case then they are surely to be confidants and not politically minded fools intent on pleasing themselves and garnering prestige for their own persons." Sauron paused, the eyes he wore turned leftward then down to the plate where the feminine fingers his body sported raised a grape to his mouth.

"Do as you will, my Lord Sidious. I would caution you to not see them not as easily manipulated toads, but as missionaries. Come to assess the sickness your world and people have cast about their persons and spirits."

"That is hardly what one would call a political mission." Palpatine countered but was not so deluded as to ignore Sauron's wisdom on these people. So, he smiled and tilted his head.

"Well I shall take your wisdom to heart when dealing with this delegation. You have no desire to meet or observe them?"

"No, I should not. I am not as of yet prepared to meet with any among their number. Especially if they have the White Wizard with them." Palpatine cocked his brow again. Such a term and title was almost comical, but he had seen and read many odd things from this world. He was not so easily able to wave such things aside in these past few weeks.

"Very well. Though perhaps you would like to stay updated on their time here?" Sauron's form was silent before tilting their head.

"That would be fine, my Lord Sidious." Palpatine raised his glass and chuckled further before sipping down a sizable serving. The two falling into but a momentary, but heavy silence. Palpatine scraped his plate uncaringly and abrasively. Some manner of steamed potatoes were eaten by the Sith before he sighed happily.

"Speaking of Arda; your world, I was wondering when you would prefer to return to it? Seeing as we have yet to discuss the matter since our last real meeting." Palpatine offered as the droids neared and took his dirtied plate and replaced it with another. Placing sweetened bread with a renewed glass of wine.

"The sooner the better for both our needs, Lord Sidious. There is much I need to gather in terms of resources for the next war to come."

"War?" Palpatine repeated.

"Yes. The next great battle for Middle-Earth and in fact all of Arda is on the approach. To when and where has yet to be determined. If it were up to me, it would be as soon as possible with as greatly amassed a force as possible. For my end it will require as much of my prior power and thrall as I can muster."

"Surely." Palpatine replied, though still wondered what use Sauron's forces could offer this Dark Lord of immense power. Let alone himself. Even recalling their prior discussion on these…'orcs' and so forth Palpatine had seen the documentation on them and had found them in many ways lacking. Yet, if Sauron was set on receiving them they should have some manner of purpose, and to that end then their retrieval should have merit.

"Your venture is still something I am committed to I assure you. However, I am distinctly lacking in anything for my end of our arrangement."

"Twice now I have had dealings with those like yourself. With access to these powers in the Force. Twice has payment for services not yet received been demanded of me. An odd sort of treat I think." Sauron gave in annoyance as Palpatine chuckled.

"Perhaps that is so, but you surely know by now that your own powers are quite vast. I am under no illusion that gifting you access to a system that's quite difficult to reach from Coruscant may well lead to your disappearance. Then I would have truly let you loose into the galaxy without having gained anything. What sort of fool would I be to do such a thing?" Sauron, to that statement did bare the faintest of smirks. One that told Sidious he had intuited some manner of thought on this Dark Lord's mind.

"You have a point. Then a show of potential is in order." Sauron offered and raised the hand he wore once more. From across the table Sidious watched his unused spoon rise through the air with a thrum in the Force. Sauron pulled it to his hand and caressed the ornate designs along the simple metals. For a quiet and heavy moment the silence passed between them and Palpatine could sense his guards to his rear grow the faintest bit anxious. Sauron's eyes in an instant turned to those familiar blazing fires with darkened slits and he bore himself a bit more clearly this time.

"When the World arose; that is when everything was created, it was sung into being. By the Ainur, the Valar, the Maiar and those who have yet to enter into the waking world from beside Eru." Palpatine noted some familiar words but remained silent, nonetheless, as Sauron dove into his seeming rumination.

"When everything was sung into being and the waking world came to be with mortal flesh about it, all such powers that was born of the music began to fade. Only in Valinor were such things for-ever maintained. It was the workings of one I...knew named Melkor that retained the so called 'magic' throughout Middle-Earth. When he fell it was by my own spirit, my rings and the One Ring that 'magic' remained a powerful force throughout the world. With my passing it will fade ever more quickly until nothing is so magical or unique across the lands of Men."

"Magic, as you say, is finite a resource?" Palpatine deduced and Sauron seemed thoughtful for a moment.

"It is finite in that Men do not have the right temperament or knowledge where the power of voice is concerned. The Elves and the Dwarves to a lesser degree are very keenly aware of the power retained in their voices and in their written words. The Elvish languages have their roots in the tongues made of the Ainur. They can command of the world the finely tuned aspects born inherently within it, therefore those who do not understand this process call it 'magical.' It is the deeper understanding of the World, of the universe that allows one to tap into the inert true nature of it. The power of my voice, your voice even, and the voice or intent of anyone can greatly increase the abilities of those who utilize it." Palpatine brought a slice of bread to his mouth from then listening on with a finger tapping to his chin. An interesting thought, even if he did not inherently believe the creation story told of this Sauron. It did not mean that Sauron and his like did not understand something none within the galaxy had yet to tap into.

Sauron remained eyes fixed upon the spoon, and Palpatine was shaken from his own thoughts as he felt a sort of heat rise in the room. Barely noticeable, but through the Force a sort of hum traced over as an echo starting from within the body of the woman Sauron wore. The glowing eyes burned hot as Sauron loosened a breath through Vica's nose.

"Tingilindë píca-ondo horya-hranga as ninya níra." Sauron's voice carried an airiness that was unusual to it, and Palpatine was unsure if he imagined it or not, but swore the woman's voice was replaced...or more intermingled with a man's. Not so booming as it had been upon the desert plains of Korriban, but rather soft and commanding and indiscernible in sex. A visceral heat seemed to emanate from the hand Sauron held the spoon within and a glow like white hot fires of a star shone as the metal of the spoon seemed to be melting, yet it remained in the form it had been. Sauron, smirked and as the fire cooled he sent the spoon back to Palpatine who caught it with the Force and let it loom just ahead of himself above the table.

"Words and runes together are greater than either one alone. It gives it permanence, even if it just tells a tale. The tales it weaves carries history and meaning in its own way, and there lay power within such." Sauron carried on. Palpatine furrowed his brow but turned to the spoon and there, he saw it. Small etchings lining the metal where once it had been sleek and smooth. Small...letters of unknown meaning or placement were carved into the simple silverware.

"What did you do?" Palpatine wondered. Sauron reached over and grabbed his own spoon. Using strength of some measure added to by the Force the Dark Lord from afar pushed his thumb into the dip of the spoon and it bent with a nauseating twist of metal beneath his grasp until it was planted back against the grip of itself.

"Use all the power you must and bend the spoon." His guest commanded. With raised brow, Palpatine pressed his thumb into the dip as Sauron had and used all bodily strength he could muster. His hand began to shake but the metal showed no sign of bending. He frowned, and pulled from the Force as he pressed down into the metal. The Force added to his strength doubling it as he pressed. The metal whined but still it did not bend. The runes almost seemed to shine then as Palpatine ceased his actions. It reminded him of that ring Sauron sported on Vica's left hand. A subtle shine that only those looking for it, or those with more vision than the common man could see. It was sort of blue, but tinged and undulated to a shining white like a glittering pearl. Unnatural as it was soft and fulfilling in a natural manner. Palpatine delved into the Force and reached out in a fine tune for that one spot along the spoon. There he sensed a swirling mass, like a cyclone of power embedding itself but not digging through the metal or matter that made up everything in the universe. Palpatine pushed a little bit further into the Force and with a surge of power that loosened the yellow of his eyes the spoon gave a sickening crack and thud as it was snapped clear of its handle to the table.

"That was a simple demonstration of what can be done when one understands the power they retain in their voice, and the imbued natural strength borne of their writing. The tongues of Men, especially the common language; which your galaxy oddly shares with that of Arda, has lost a great deal of its connection to the natural strength gifted of the universe's creation."

"What had you done to it?"

"I spoke in a tongue common of the Elves, the High language. Even it has lost some of the common phrasing and power of the root word. Quenya is the child of Quendi. And even that tongue lost some of the finesse of the words spoken of the Ainur. My spirit is inherently connected to the World and thus my spirit is attuned to the Music found in all things. For me that was a trifle. To turn the metal from the weak craft of common cutlery to hardened steel made for war. Your Force can perhaps replicate some aspects of these things, but can it be done so quickly and so innately? I do not know, but do not believe it to be so." Sauron explained, and for his own part Palpatine was impressed. He bore a crooked smirk along his features as he raised the spoon handle up and noted the fading power held in those runes, but a distant memory, an echo remained. Perhaps the memory or 'tale' they had to tell as Sauron spoke of it before.

"What other wonders can be done? What other things can your 'voice' or 'writing' do? Or your 'intention.'" Palpatine asked with that lingering crooked smirk.

"Many things, but before we get to such teachings I shall require something in kind."

"Is your return trip to Arda not the bargain?"

"That will happen regardless, if you are to keep me as a willing prisoner about your world of metal." Sauron countered and the Chancellor chuckled dropping the spoon's handle and idly cleaning his hands of imagined dust.

"Then what is it that I can provide you with, my Lord?"

"I will require the most advanced form of metallurgy and craftsman station available for addition to my apartment." Palpatine felt a sensation pass through the Force that put him for a moment on edge. He eyed the Lord's ring that he knew to be the source of his remaining 'spirit.' He read the reports regarding the nature and importance of this so called 'One Ring' and Sauron had been little a stranger when speaking of it before. The Force allowed him to intuit something, and Palpatine believed then that this Sauron's arrogance was indeed so great as to think him a fool! To not know what such a metallurgy station could allow for this being to create. To use against not only his enemies from Arda, but himself! Yet, would the creation of a Ring, one that was imbued with the powers, and words of such a creature be so bad? For himself anyways? Palpatine wondered if it would be so bad a thing to allow Sauron to imagine himself a blind arrogant fool all the while he played him? He smiled and imagined that perhaps Sauron should be allowed a ring crafting station. That he should be allowed to make a ring, or whatever else piece of metal crafts work he desired. Not for Sauron himself, but perhaps a more deserving bearer. His heart gave a shot of adrenaline and Palpatine believed he knew then what the Force had warned him of.

"Should I expect to gain something from your craftsmanship?" Palpatine questioned following his silent and heavy thoughts.

"Untold power awaits us both, my Lord Sidious." To that, Palpatine smiled and raised his glass, to which Sauron mirrored him.

---

"What are you doing?! He already knows about your rings! Why are you even trying to make another?! Have you lost your mind?!" The shrilled howl of the witch thrummed within their mind.

"I am aware. Nonetheless, a new ring is just what we need."

"After what happened last time?! I think you have lost your karking mind. He knows, and you've plainly made him capable of knowing! He will try to take it, and use it!"

"I do not think he should. He would not find any use for it."

"You've lost it!" Sauron ignored her even as they held their internal debate. He knew well what he needed, and what he needed was a new ring. His burning eyes of fire narrowed. Whether she knew it or not...he knew it.

---

It had been a long day and the reunion with some of his old friends, and a few new ones had left Anakin exhausted. That along with the battle and mayhem from earlier in the day. By the time Padmé had managed to get Gandalf and the others some accommodations nighttime had fallen. To be honest, Anakin hadn't wanted to run back to her apartment. When night had come and he knew the return was approaching Pippin had been regaling him with Sam's engagement to a hobbit named Rosie Cotton. He was happy to hear it. But, honestly his chest was tight his palm sweaty and the servos in his other tense.

Padmé always seemed to smile his way whenever he caught a sideways glance from her. She had busied herself and left for a while to attend to her own political business. Or, something like that. When she had come back she had seemed to strike up a conversation with the elf woman, Tauriel. She seemed quite the fiery personality. She had been there for some of the business concerning Bilbo Baggins and his own quest with the dwarves which Anakin was somewhat familiar with. He would like to speak with her at some point. Her and Galadriel...well everyone actually.

Honestly when Padmé had come with an attendant to take everyone away to their suite Anakin was not very...excited. As he carried on thinking about it the more his anxiety rose. Children...his children?! Force, he had never in a million years imagined such a thing. Not when they married, not when he was in the midst of battle, and not in the entirety of his time back on Arda. Force, had they even taken precau...well it wasn't worth mulling such things over at this point. Besides, he damn well already knew the answer. He just felt sick, excited, worried, dumbfounded...a little dumb too. All of it all at once...and he had no idea what to expect.

His mind had been racing and the airspeeder trip back to her apartment had given him a small panic attack he thought, but he had to face it. Had to accept what was done was done. Anakin, just didn't know what he was going to do. Sure Padmé could more than likely take care of them, and all their needs. He never had a father himself. A couple figures, but as far as his mom was concerned he had no father. Of course he fit the mold of the Chosen One for that reason among others, so he wasn't really upset by it. More confused, but where it came to kids of his own?! He thought of Obi-Wan and imagined being like him as a father, and it made him snicker. He thought of Master Qui-Gon for what little time he had and imagined a fatherly sort of manner to him that had some merit. But, if he were honest he had known Qui-Gon for just a few days in a lifetime. Then came Palpatine. More a grandfather type in truth, but still he listened when Anakin needed to speak. Palpatine did'nt judge when he had made mistakes, and he was open to him on any matter he needed counseling on. Maybe he was the best figure he had?

Regardless, he was...yeah he was scared beyond anything. Droids, cyborg generals, Sith Lords and Dark Lords of other varieties seemed pretty easy as he and Padmé landed just outside her apartment's veranda.

"Threepio should've gotten back by now. Dormé helps out a lot." Padmé spoke up, and gave one of her very rare anxious laughs. Kriff, if she was anxious about him meeting them after having been with them for a while now what hope did he have?!

"Uh right. Three..." He had begun to yell for the droid but paused as he realized they're probably sleeping. Padmé passed him a smile, and he mouthed his apology as she moved towards the adjacent hall. As they neared; and every footfall sounded like a bomb in Anakin's ears right alongside his heartbeat, the familiar shuffle of servos sounded out.

"Oh my, Miss Padmé, Master Anakin a pleasure to see you both back, and in good health!" The droid announced with a reasonably lower voice if ever abrasively posh manner.

"The children are fast asleep, and I assure you they were quite amiable today. Rather odd considering the battle, but their spirits are quite, hmm, motivating." Threepio offered and Anakin shook his head.

"Thank you Threepio. Go and attend to your other duties please." Padmé thanked.

"Ah, of course Miss Padmé, and have a goodnight." Threepio bowed to them both and scurried off to his other business.

"I wonder where Artoo is..."

"Threepio probably made him run away."

"Not again..." Anakin laughed causing Padmé to join him. Even if both recognized the other was doing so out of awkwardness and anxiety.

"This way, Jedi Skywalker." She teased him and Anakin followed after her. The silence was deafening and heavy as they reached the spare room which Anakin now mused had a purpose. The air was alight with the smells he would associate with babies. A powdery sort of scent and something he couldn't quite place his finger on. Regardless, he smirked as he found Artoo charging himself inside the room. The little dome bursting to silent life as they came in.

"It's just us Artoo, go back to charging." Anakin ordered with a whisper, and the droid silently dipped itself in a nod and returned to resting itself. Padmé all but skipped over to the two conjoined cribs at the rooms center along the wall. He lifted and waved his collar as he watched her. The heat rising up from his body making him more anxious more nervous. Blast the damnable Jedi robes sometimes!

"Come see your children!" Padmé demanded as forcefully as she could and Anakin chuckled nervously on his duitiful approach. He loomed as a tower over the cribs and stared down. His blue eyes moving back and forth; as through the dim light filtered into the room by the nearby viewport, he beheld the two small bundles . Anakin's breath caught and he watched one of their little faces tilt away form him, their mouth opening and breathing the air around them. Everything was silent, everything was surreal.

"Go on and hold him." Padmé's voice shook him.

"'Him?'" He repeated and she laughed. Anakin only then noted a trace of moisture in her beautiful brown eyes.

"That's your son, Luke."

"'Luke.'" He whispered mimicking her. "My son..."

He reached down and gently as he could, brought the boy up. His little head hung back and Anakin grit his teeth at his own stupidity and was quick to place his right hand under the head for support. The baby grumbled, and Anakin loosed a breathy laugh as he brought Luke...his son up to his chest and nestled him in a sort of natural way. It felt natural anyways. Padmé did the same raising the other baby into her arms and rocked her slowly side to side in her arms against her own chest.

"Our little Leia." A tear had rolled down her cheek and Anakin couldn't place why, but felt it to be a natural response. He pushed Luke onto his right arm and held him so gently, with so little a body and wiped Padmé's face with his free hand, caressing her cheek. Still, Anakin said nothing of the tears. He simply smiled.

He turned back though. Staring down onto Luke and felt a shock travel over his body and mind. He felt anxious, and afraid, and a sense of love that was greater but different than that he felt for his wife.

"Our Luke and Leia." He shakily laughed and Padmé nodded as she sniffled a breath of air.

"Our children, Ani." Both she and Anakin beamed. His, a grin he wasn't even sure for what, and he lifted Luke to his face. The little bundle of a human grunting and tiny hands balled to fists moving above himself.

"A strong little man. Stronger than me already I bet!" Anakin felt his body shake, and knew even then that this being, this Luke would be greater than himself. He would do everything to see that happen. For Leia as well, as he eyed her within her mother's arms.

"By the Force...I never dreamed of this day. Never imagined this to happen to me. To us!"

"It's here. Now we live as best we can, and raise them as best we can. No matter what. They're our priority, Ani."

"No pressure." Anakin breathily replied. He turned to her.

"I'm sorry I wasn't there for you when you brought them into the universe."

"You're here now. That's what matters. For us, for them." She was right, Anakin smiled and nodded.

"I'll never leave you, or them."

"You better not." Padmé laughed as another tear fell down her face. Anakin brought Luke near and planted a kiss upon his brow and breathed in that smell. That distinct baby smell, but his son...his Luke. Before, he turned and caught Padmé's lips with his own and she shook in their meeting as a sense of love flowed over them all unlike anything he had felt before. The Force sung, and beyond that it just felt proper, and right. Sure he was beyond scared, but this was indeed a great day.

The best day of Anakin Skywalker's life. His right hand never even flinched or tensed a little.

---

L's Note: Alright it's been a while since an update, and I along with the author apologize but college is crazy and now so is the world with viruses and other mayhem. Hopefully this chapter is to all your likings, and as a usual note I will be going back and reviewing/correcting grammar issues in the next day or so, but I figured I'd update rather than leave a delay to last even longer. Maybe that's backwards but it's how I am! If you see a grammar error in need of correcting immediately lemme know and I'll take care of it!

Thanks again for your patience and excitement for my friend's story, and hopefully he'll have the next one out soon!

-L

Edit Note: Edited/Updated 9/12/2020