Chapter 30AE

'Labour Days – It's No Holiday'

'My Speeder Is No Delivery Vehicle'

'Sessions…The Long Version'

'I Sensed that This Would Happen'

'The Granddaddy of All Siths'

'Imperial Rehab'

The Skywalker home is at peace once again. Anakin tries to stay away from the Naberrie's while they are visiting Coruscant City. It is just as well; he has his scheduled father-son sessions with Kris. There is also the update from the therapist Dr. Melfi.

Anakin does not have the burden of old Palpatine on his shoulders now that the old Sith has a part-time job tormenting shoppers at the mall. Anakin's view is, 'Not my problem'.

The morning is a good time to stop by the Coruscant Rehabilitation Centre formerly named the EmPal SuRecon Center, where Admiral Demetrius Zaarin is continuing his recuperation.

The Imperial entourage marches through the corridor of the critical care therapy wing. Nurses and staff clear the way as the Dark Lord and his officers walk to the room. Before they enter the room, Lieutenant Daine Jir reminds him of something.

"My Lord, is this a good idea? I mean, in light of the lawsuit and all…"

"Lawsuits don't concern me, Lieutenant."

The lieutenant is referring to the pending lawsuit brought on because of the "incident" months before. The Dark Lord does not appear concerned especially after the last visit while Admiral was in the hospital intensive care unit. A warning sign on the door reads, "No Flowers while Oxygen is In Use."

Anakin catches Zaarin "awake" from his coma. The Admiral's nose wrinkles at the strong scent of the bouquet.

The "big faker" Anakin growls under his breath as he watches Zaarin. The Admiral closes his eyes pretending to be asleep. Anakin waves his hand upon leaving the room. The bed suddenly malfunctions and closes in on itself folding Zaarin in half. Nurses hurry into the room after hearing his pitiful cries for help. Anakin is already downstairs in the lobby on his way to his speeder.

"Big Fat Liar" indeed.

Now, on the morning of this 'follow-up' visit, Anakin finds Zaarin practicing his mobility therapy on the parallel bars. A burly attendant spots the recovering Admiral but he is distracted by the presence of the Dark Lord and the entourage that accompanies him. The other physical therapy technicians take notice but do not attempt to move in to stop the Dark Lord. One other burly attendant enters the room chewing on what were the last few bites of his lunch. The deep-set dimples in his cherubic cheeks appear to open and close as he chews. His name is Tiny. The therapist guiding Zaarin along the bar exercise wears a badge with the name Tomo.

Tomo watches Anakin approach the bars. Zaarin suddenly behaves like a fearful child. There is a wide grin on the Dark Lord's face.

"Hey…AZ! Look at you! First steps. I'm impressed, you old buzzard! In a few weeks, you'll be performing on the Galaxies stage. So, how the hell are you?"

"I'm fine…considering…"

"You keep it up. You'll be strong as a gundark the next time I visit."

"Oh, you don't have to do that, my Lord. You're a busy man."

"But I want to visit you. See? I'm interested in your progress. I want you back to your former self. Trust me; I am concerned about my officers. I won't stay long because I know that you need to complete your P.T. session…but I'll have my eye on you. Okay?" Anakin slaps Zaarin hard on the back. The Admiral losses his balance at the bars. Anakin catches him and then leans in close to whisper in his ear. "I know you're faking it. You think you're going to sue me successfully? I recommend you work on a miracle recovery. Atta boy!" Anakin pats his face. You take care now, eh?"

Tiny and the other attendant, Tomo watch as the Dark Lord makes his exit. A female nurse stands between them looks on as Anakin and his entourage leaves.

"Who is that cloaked man?"

A voiceover coming from no place in particular utters the following reply:

"The cruiser with the speed of a light saber, a cloud of Tatooine dust and a hearty "Hi-yo May the Force be with you" - the Darth Vader!

The familiar march can be heard in the distance. Rhythmic, thunderous footsteps of the entourage echo through the corridor.

Outside the hospital entrance, Lieutenant Daine Jir opens the door of the black stretch speeder. He stands at attention as he waits for the Dark Lord to step inside the vehicle.

"Will you be returning to headquarters, my Lord?

"No. I have to see someone. Take me to the university complex."

"The university complex? Are you sure?"

"Did I ask you advice, Lieutenant?"

"No, my Lord."

Several minutes later, the limousine pulls to a stop in front of the Coruscant Medical Arts Building. Anakin walks through the sliding doors.

Doctor Melfi swore she would never take on any more patients, especially the one coming to her office today. On the other hand, she feels a sense of duty to the Coruscant community as a whole. She stares at the flashing light on the telephone console. She can no longer hold off the patient waiting outside. She prepares herself, if only for the sake of Carol the receptionist. Poor Carol, sitting at the front desk putting up with difficult patients. Doctor Melfi is intrigued by what this session would bring.

The good doctor stands beside her desk and glances across the room at the Dark Lord as he lies on the white leather chaise.

"Hey, Doc, what are you doing all the way over there? Time is a-wasting."

"Mr. Skywalker, just because you have an appointment does not entitle you to storm in here before I am ready to see you."

"So?"

"Do you even understand the idea of the "waiting area?"

"Actually, no I don't. Why should I wait when I have important issues to discuss?"

"I need you to respect my secretary when she asks you to be seated in the waiting area; and I want you to wait until 1 come for you."

Anakin stands and paces across the room.

"Are we going to waste time arguing? I'm in crisis. I could be out of here by the time you finish giving me a tongue lashing."

Melfi glances at her watch.

"Point taken. Have a seat."

Anakin lies back on the plush chaise. The doctor takes her usual place in the armchair across the room. There is a drinking glass on the small table beside her. Anakin is quick to notice.

"You're drinking a bit early, aren't you, Doc? That had better be water."

What I drink is none of your business."

"I hope you're not boozing it up when my son is here."

"No, just you."

"You and Obi-Wan would get on well together at happy hour."

"Ah, yes. He used to be your master in your youth."

"Yeah, you remembered."

"I do. Poor man."

"Okay, enough about him. Let's discuss me."

"Okay. Let's do that. How is your 'father and son time' with Kris?"

"I thought this was going to be about me…oh." Anakin remembers the reason he is there. It is time to sound like a concerned parent. He rephrases his answer. He will get back to his issues in a moment. We're doing just fine."

"Is he learning anything?"

"Sure. We went to the Galaxy's Arcade recently. He learned the value of 10 credits, especially when it comes to using those machines. What a rip-off."

"Bullying the arcade attendants now are we? Mr. Skywalker, shaking down honest, hardworking people is not what you're supposed to be teaching your son. The incident at the Imperial Headquarters was supposed to inspire a teachable moment."

"Yeah, you stick to that theory, Doc. I'll decide what a teachable moment is and what is not."

"Perhaps your wife can add balance to these moments with your son."

"What's she going to do?"

"Well, she is Kris' mother. I want her to spend some alone time with Kris. She can surely bring a new perspective to this situation. The parent/child relationship should also involve the mother. She can help him understand the repercussions for his actions."

"Oh, Geez! Listen, Doc, all Isabel needs to do is to provide food and clean clothing for our son. I'll be responsible for the discipline and teachable moments."

"I don't see any positive results, Mr. Skywalker. Let's try things my way for awhile. We'll bring Kris in after a few weeks and see how things progress. After that, I want to meet with you and Mrs. Skywalker together."

There is a long silence. The Force is strong with this woman. Anakin cannot break her. A woman with a degree and a lightsaber is a terrible combination. He has to make her change her mind about involving Isabel in Kris' therapy. 'Think…think…'

"I've got to tell you, Doc, she's trying my patience. Let's not throw her into the mix. She'll get all emotional. It's counterproductive."

Doctor Melfi folds her hands on her lap.

"Oh? What happened this time?"

"I made one innocent comment and she turns it into an intergalactic incident."

Care to elaborate?"

"No, I don't care to elaborate. You women twist things around…eghh!" He rolls his eyes and tries to start over. "Sorry, I didn't mean to insult you. You're a fine person. Why do chicks always dig up old history?"

"Why do you keep digging your own grave? I gave you the opportunity to stop talking but you can't seem to help yourself."

"Okay, it's like this…She accused me of lying while I was dating her."

"Were you? About what pray tell?"

"You're going to pull this out of me, aren't you?"

"You volunteered. I'm just trying to figure out where you're going with this."

"Fine! She got mad because I told her she was a lousy driver and she said I never told her that while we were dating."

"What did you say?"

"All I said was, 'If people didn't lie while they were courting, there would be no marriages."

"Do you believe all couples lie before marriage?"

"Sure they do! No one wants the truth."

"You really believe that?"

"You say that as if it were a bad thing."

"It is a bad thing. That is no way to start a relationship. I'm going to regret asking this but how did the argument start?"

"Isabel wanted to drive my in-laws…excuse me…'former 'in-laws… are visiting from Naboo because my eldest daughter is having twins."

"Oh, that's wonderful! Congratulations, you're going to be a grandfather."

Anakin stops speaking. He stares at the doctor as if she had just told him he had a dreaded disease. Doctor Melfi senses this but pretends not to notice. She refuses to indulge him.

"Why do you have to be so hurtful? Where's your bedside manner?"

"Don't you want to see your in-laws? I think it's nice. What's wrong with a little company? Your house is almost empty save for Ana-Lena and Kris."

"I like company just fine…as long as they don't come to visit."

"Now, Anakin, you know you don't believe that."

"Are you going to take my side or what?"

"I'm neutral. Look at me as just an observer. There are no judgments here."

"Get the 'eff' outta here. You're judging me right now."

"What is troubling you, Anakin?"

"I've got a lot of stress. My plate is full with issues."

"Talk to me."

"My youngest daughter is not talking to me. One son is leaving the priesthood to become a doctor, and I've got to figure out what to do with Kris for the summer."

"A doctor is a noble profession. You should be proud. Jedi spiritual healers are few and far between."

'He's going to get his pants sued off of him. You know how litigious people are these days, especially those Alderaanians."

"That's a biased remark, don't you think?"

"You know it's true."

The timer signals that the session is over.

"Well, our time is up. I want you to sit down with your wife and work out a schedule with Kris."

"After all the things I said about my wife and you still want to see her?"

"Yes."

"Fine."

"And you will make a proper appointment with my secretary."

"Yes, ma'am."

Anakin hops off the chaise and leaves. He remembers to apologize to Carol before exiting the office.

Upon arriving home Anakin explains to Isabel the new strategy recommended by Dr. Melfi. Isabel is eager to participate…much to Anakin's chagrin.

'Mother and Child Reunion'

A few days later Isabel begins her 'mother and son' time with Kris. Anakin stops by Kris' bedroom to check out the wardrobe selection for his big day. A dull groan rises from his throat.

"Poor kid. Looks like Youngling 'Back-to-School' attire. " He leans over his young son and runs his fingers through his hair as he sleeps.

"Dad, I'm trying to sleep, stop breathing over me."

"Oh, I'm sorry. Good night, son."

"Good night, Dad."

Anakin walks down the hall to the master bedroom. He confronts his wife.

"Isabel, what are you doing to our son?"

Isabel brushes her hair in the mirror.

"What are you talking about, Anakin?"

"That outfit you put out for Kris."

"It's a nice outfit. What's your problem?

"Bimmisaari Country Club crap."

"Will you cut it out? The Bimmisaari Tea House is a lovely place. It's what the doctor recommended."

"She didn't recommend dress-up day." He pulls his sweater over his head.

"This is going to be our day so butt out. I didn't interfere when you two went arcade hopping and stayed out past his curfew."

"We didn't go arcade-hopping. It was the Galaxies Arcade. He's going to be miserable tomorrow, I know it."

"I am not getting into this with you, Anakin."

"You're blowing me off, aren't you?" He sits on the quilted bench at the foot of the bed.

"I refuse to indulge you."

"Fine!" Anakin rips off his socks and tosses them to the floor. "You're a real piece of work, aren't you?"

They get into bed and turn off the lights. A few moments pass. There is a long silence. The tall silhouette of the Dark Lord gets out of bed and stomps his way to the foot of the bed. There is a soft 'whooshing' sound and then a hard thud. "Ouch" The dark shadow hobbles back to bed mutters a string of profanities.

"Socks are in the hamper. You happy?"

Another loss for the Dark Lord.

Morning –

Anakin waits downstairs as Kris prepares to spend the day with his mother. Anakin sips his coffee when Kris comes downstairs. Anakin almost spits out his coffee.

"You look as if you're going to christen a starship."

"The last time I got dressed up like this was for Mass."

"Just say the word and I will put a stop to this nonsense."

"I'll try it, Dad. It's okay."

"Alright, but don't come home crying."

"I promise, Dad."

"Good luck, kid."

Kris and his mother arrive at the Bimmisaari Tea House. The interior is brightly lit. The tables are decorated with fresh freesia. Kabir crystal chandeliers twinkle from the sundrenched glass windows.

The dining room is full today. Ladies in their finery and fascinators sit and chat. A few well-dressed old men, mostly tea aficionados, join women at some of the tables. Kris and his mother receive the royal treatment. Isabel looks beautiful. Anakin had tried to downplay the place during his chat with Kris before leaving the house. Kris was a bit nervous upon arriving but as soon as they are seated, he remembers which spoon and fork to use for each course. He even sees children his own age in the place.

The young girls would steal glances at him from across the room as they pretended to engage in conversation with their parents. Isabel observes her son gazing across the tearoom at the young girls while he tries to sip his beverage from a straw. The straw flies across the table. The girls at table across the room giggle. Isabel catches him and snaps her fingers. The girls are amused as Kris clumsily attempts to act cool.

The Bimmisaari Tea Room is not at all what his father was warning him about earlier. His 'yacht attire' is a big hit. All of the attention is on him. This is heaven!"

Meanwhile, back at the Skywalker residence, Anakin hangs around the house waiting to console his young son for having to play 'dress-up at 'Bimbo-sorry Tea House.' Being home alone today was no fun. It is too quiet….but not for long.

Someone unlocks the front door and enters the foyer. Skippy barks and sprints to the door.

"Hello? Anybody home? Daddy? Out of my way you crazy dog."

Anakin walks to the foyer holding a bowl of cereal.

"What are you doing here?"

"You're spending how much money on therapy and your manners are still lacking?"

"Don't start. Why are you here and where is your husband?"

"On some foolish mission you sent him on no doubt. Where is everyone?"

"Your little brother is at the Bimmisaari Snot Club having high tea with his mother and a bunch of hens."

Leia mocks her father.

"Oh, that can't be as much fun as those mindless arcade games."

"Hey! Those games are for highly skilled players. They improve statistical and logistical acumen."

"Yeah, I heard you gave the arcade attendant the shakedown." Leia heads for the kitchen and grabs a Rodian soda from the refrigerator. Anakin notices only because she never drinks the stuff.

"He was cheating kids out of their game time."

"You had no idea until he tried to scam you."

"Why are you here tormenting me?"

"I need a ride."

"Where? Oh, No! Why couldn't you stay home?"

"Well, unless you want me to give birth here in the kitchen…"

"Fine! My day keeps getting worse every minute. Just hold it until we get to the hospital. I just had my speeder cleaned." Anakin grabs his cell phone and heads for the front door "Wait a minute; how did you get here in the first place?" Anakin speaks into the phone. "Lieutenant, where is General Solo? What? Tell him to get off the ship; plans have changed…that's impossible. Find him now…That is a direct order…Don't make me kill you…General Solo is to report to Coruscant University Hospital immediately." Anakin ushers Leia out the door.

"Hey! Don't push!"

"You don't push! Keep it moving. Keep it moving. What is it with you Skywalker women and the kitchen?"

Father and daughter arrive at the hospital. Leia is at the admissions desk filling out forms. An orderly arrives with a wheelchair. Anakin immediately plops down in the chair.

"Oh, it's about time. My dogs are barking"

Leia completes he registration and turns to see her father in the chair. She folds her arms across her chest.

"I believe that was meant for me."

"Oh." Anakin gets out of the chair.

They arrive upstairs on the maternity ward. A nurse checks Leia's vitals. She is amiable, not at all sharp-tongued like Nurse Ratched. Her name is Naomi.

"Any contractions in the last half hour?"

"No, we're good."

Leia and Naomi turn to look at Anakin who is standing in the doorway. Naomi smiles.

"Is this Mr. Solo?"

Anakin is insulted.

"No, I am not. I am her father…'Mr. Skywalker.'

Naomi continues. She is bubbly and intrigued.

"Oh, will you be joining your daughter in the delivery room?"

"Hell, No!"

Leia rolls her eyes then speaks calmly to the nurse.

"He's had enough experience in the delivery room."

Naomi is stunned by his reaction.

"Don't you want to see your first grandchild, Mr. Skywalker?"

"Of course I do…when they're 18 and can complete a sentence."

The nurse chuckles.

"Oh, you don't mean that, Mr. Skywalker."

Leia flips through her data pad to bide her time. She comments without looking up.

"Yes, he does."

Naomi shakes her head in amazement.

"You're so crazy, Mr. Skywalker."

Leia chimes in flatly. There is a smirk on her face.

"That, he is."

Naomi adjusts the fetal monitor. She is still amused by the father-daughter banter.

"Nurse Ratched mentioned you. She said you were a handful."

Anakin is annoyed.

"Nurse Ratched talks too much." He sees Leia laughing to herself. He squints. "Where's your husband? He had more than enough time to get here. I can't hang around this place all day."

"Oh, stop your whining and have a seat. This is all your fault. He would be here by now if you didn't send him on assignment."