Twenty Seven Hours Later

"If you were any tenser, Skyguy, the servos on your hand would pop and fry."

"Yes, do try to relax." Obi-Wan Kenobi admonished Anakin with a grin.

"Easy for you two to say."

The three of them were supervising the loading of Dooku's stasis pod into the drop ship that would eventually take them planet side when they came out of hyperspace. The Count had been placed in suspended animation for the last eight hours of their trip to ensure his compliance, despite his complaints that such methods were 'uncivilized'.

He hadn't been given a choice in the matter.

There had been talk of landing the cruiser, but the chances of someone expecting such a prominent captive in a drop ship were slim. They were trying to minimize the risks of having him rescued and, once planet side, the Count would be incarcerated in the Jedi Temple to be dealt with by the Council. As a former member of the Council and a Sith, he wouldn't be tried by the courts or brought before the Senate. It was being called an internal Jedi matter by the Council and, as such, not the Senate's jurisdiction.

"Easy and fun," Ahsoka confirmed with a cheeky grin.

Anakin shot her a look, lifting his hand to nudge the stasis pod just a little more into the back of the drop ship. "I'm coming home to a completely different situation than what I left."

"And whose fault is that?"

"You can still be reassigned, Snips; shouldn't you be guarding that boyfriend of yours?"

"He's not my boyfriend," she snapped a little too vehemently.

"Now you sound like Obi-Wan." Anakin pitched his voice to a lower octave. "Anakin! No! She's not my girlfriend!"

"Children," the exasperated older Jedi stepped between them, "let's just get this over with and then you can bicker in private - away from me."

"Girlfriend, Master Kenobi?"

"Don't mind him," Obi-Wan returned dryly. "He just thinks everyone should do as he's done and break the rules for love."

Ahsoka's eyes widened

Obi-Wan hastily continued as if he realized what he'd said. "Mister Bonteri will need a disguise for when we land, Ahsoka; it won't do for a known Separatist defector who refuses to ally themselves with the Republic to be seen with this many Jedi."

"I'm on it, Master Kenobi," she assured him. "But don't think I'll forget about this!"

She was gone before Obi-Wan could think of a comeback. "On second thought," he told Anakin as the clones assigned to securing Dooku's cage swarmed the drop ship, "I don't think I want her as my Padawan. She's far too much like you."

"One of me was enough?"

"More than. Are you ready, Anakin?"

"For going home? Of course."

"You have a funny way of showing it." Obi-Wan's pointed look at the clenched fist Ahsoka had mentioned earlier had Anakin consciously relaxing the appendage. "You need to relax. Padmé and the twins are fine."

"Relax? Would you in my position?"

"I've never been in your position; I wouldn't know."

"You could have been."

"Anakin."

He managed a smile and held up his hands in surrender, changing the topic. "Did Cody speak with you?"

"So did Fives and Rex," Obi-Wan confirmed. "They all have similar views on the idea of playing bodyguard, especially for such a long period of time. I told you it wouldn't work."

"It doesn't hurt to ask."

"No, but they're clones, Anakin; their loyalties are to the Republic, not the Jedi and certainly not specific Senators no matter how much they respect them."

"The other side of the Jedi, then?"

"If you choose to look at it that way. We're peace keepers, not warriors."

"Unless you're General Skywalker," commented Rex dryly as he came to stand with them. "Excuse the interruption, Generals, but I felt it was only proper to deliver my reply to you in person."

"I understand, Rex," Anakin offered with a half smile before the clone could say anything. "I've always known where your loyalties lie. It's not a surprise you want to stay."

"Actually sir, I'd like to accept your invitation and formally request permission to accompany you," Rex grinned at Anakin's surprised expression. "Fives and Cody will be along to do the same, I'm sure. We figure if Grievous is holding a grudge against you and General Kenobi there's a better chance of him coming to us than tracking him down."

"Not to mention you're entitled to some down time," Obi-Wan offered diplomatically. "I don't think I've ever seen you take any, Captain."

"Rarely sir," he admitted. "Only when injured or in hyperspace."

"Then this will do you good."

"I'm glad you're coming, Rex; who knows, we might find you that nice young woman yet. Naboo is full of them."

Rex flashed him a grin and a salute. "If you'll excuse me, Generals, I need to go pack."

"So, it would seem our entourage grows," Obi-Wan commented dryly. "I trust this place you plan on hiding at is rather large?"

"Large enough for our purposes," Anakin assured him, teasing. "Don't worry, Obi-Wan, you'll have your own room."

"Unless Ahsoka prefers to bunk with me." Obi-Wan noted with quirk of his eyebrows. "Have you spoken with Padmé?"

"Not since I got the communiqué a few days ago. She's been reinstated, but I got that from the recorded holo feeds when we dropped out of hyperspace for that last course correction eight hours ago."

"I'm sure she's fine; Master Plo is a formidable warrior."

"Much like the wolves he named his squadron after," Anakin agreed, turning to walk the deck with Obi-Wan. One of them would have to be on hand at all times while the stasis pod was in the drop ship. "I'll feel better once she's in my arms again, that's all."

"Do you have any other preparations to make?"

"I'm ready. You?"

"The same. Perhaps you should check on your Padawan and Mister Bonteri to ensure they're also prepared." Obi-Wan suggested. "I'll stay here and supervise to ensure nothing goes wrong."

"I hate it when you're right. See you in forty."

Obi-Wan lifted one hand in acknowledgement and turned back to face the ship where Dooku's Stasis pod was being secured to the deck. He folded his hands behind him as Anakin watched, summarily dismissed by his old Master, and shook his head as he exited the flight deck.

With Ahsoka and Lux along, he wasn't anticipating much time alone with his wife regardless of what Rex said. On the bright side, Cody and Fives would be along to keep Obi-Wan company and the four men could deal with his Padawan and the Junior Senator for the most part.

Varykino would give them ample space and time to relax and explore, though he had every intention of housing as many of their entourage as possible in the guest cottages – and separating Lux and Ahsoka. With Ahsoka still officially his Padawan, and on as friendly terms with Padmé as the ex-Separatist boy, he suspected keeping them apart was going to prove... interesting.

Anakin's forty minutes passed in a blur, with Cody and Fives coming to tell him of their agreement to accompany him and Obi-Wan. He gleaned from Fives that they'd received a special request via databurst from the Chancellor to commit any clones Anakin requested to this course of action because of the importance of the Skywalker twins. Having the Chancellor back him unexpectedly when he'd refused to allow another Jedi be assigned to his wife's protection was, in his opinion, just another showcase of how much the Chancellor respected him.

Before he knew it, he was boarding the drop ship with a heavily cloaked Lux Bonteri at Ahsoka's side and Obi-Wan stationed on the far side of the capsule holding Dooku.

The cruiser had emerged into Coruscant controlled space to a massive fleet of escort ships to find that all of the holo channels were broadcasting their return. They ran the story of the Jedi's capture of Dooku, heralding it as a massive step towards ending the war. With the leader of the Separatist Senate in custody, it was only a matter of time, they were saying, until the war was truly over.

Additionally, just about every story held a commentary with Anakin's involvement and the revelation of his new status as husband and father, proclaiming him a hero. The addendum to the story was to note Padmé's involvement in the politics of the war thus far and her drive to end it peacefully without further cost to ordinary citizens.

It was a fanfare none of them had expected and none of them had before seen.

Military officials on planet sent landing coordinates and instructions, tightened security measures and a directive that all clones the ranks of Sergeant and Private were to remain on the ship. As a result, Lieutenant Sizzler was flying the co-chair of the drop ship with Commander Cody having pulled rank to be primary pilot. Once planet side, Cody'd hand controls off to the lieutenant and join them in the transport that would take them to Naboo.

As a result, Anakin knew Padmé and his children would be waiting when he landed and his tension increased.

Captain Rex and Arc Trooper Fives were dubbed as the official clone trooper escort and then, when things settled and the Jedi had taken custody of Dooku, they would be the official senate appointed guards for the Skywalker family along with Commander Cody. All in all, an impressive show of rank and force; something Anakin knew the Count's old world sensibilities would have appreciated.

If he'd been aware of it.

"Isn't this all a little much? If the Separatists were going to try and rescue him by now, they would have."

"With the way they always seem to know our plans before we execute them, Snips, there's talk of a high ranking traitor," Anakin noted shortly. "I wouldn't put it past the Separatists to try an eleventh hour rescue."

"Then why not have a battalion waiting for them?"

Anakin and Obi-Wan exchanged looks.

"We don't know what will be waiting for us when we get down," Anakin admitted.

"We haven't been privy to the landing arrangements other than to know the hand off will take place at the Jedi Temple," added Obi-Wan. "The council members who are available will be on hand to take care of Dooku."

"General Kenobi," Cody's voice carried through the comlink on Obi-Wan's wrist to each of the individuals in the drop ship. "We're entering the atmosphere now, sir; hang on."

"Copy that, Commander." Obi-Wan readjusted his grip on the hanging rings at the turbulence and raised his voice to speak with the rest of them. "When we land, there will be a considerable amount of attention on Anakin. Ahsoka, Lux's safety is in your hands; get him off the platform and into the transport as soon as you can without attracting attention. You may have to wait until everyone's focus is on Dooku's stasis pod. Anakin will distract the Politicians while Rex and Fives and I cover the hand off to the Council."

"Master Jedi, I don't-"

"The arrangement is non-negotiable, Bonteri," Anakin cut him off with a look. "If the Council gets wind of the fact you're here, we'll have to discuss amnesty, you'll probably be jailed and your life might eventually be forfeit."

"After what happened to my mother, is that not my choice to make, Master Skywalker?"

"Lux!"

Anakin turned fully to look at the young Senator who was ignoring Ahsoka's hissed caution and staring at him with a defiant look. "Since my wife would never forgive me for letting you get arrested? No," there was no room for discussion in the Jedi's tone, "you'll follow the plan; understand?"

The hooded boy seemed to get the implied threat in Anakin's tone - he was going, either by his own power, or unconscious - and nodded, looking towards Ahsoka. Her expression was grim as she motioned him back into the protected corner opposite where Dooku's stasis pod was being held. He'd be out of sight until the attention was diverted from the drop ship. He'd also be outside Anakin's reach in case the Jedi decided to reinforce his order.

Anakin turned back to Obi-Wan as the turbulence increased briefly and then kicked out, the weight of gravity once again exerting its pull and the whine of the inertial compensators dying as Cody flipped the power to engines. There was a jolt and a sway as the drop ship angled in towards their landing zone. Lux knocked into Ahsoka, who used one hand to steady him. Anakin noted it from the corner of his eye as he addressed his next comment to Obi-Wan.

"Why do I have to deal with the politicians."

"If your wife's among them, I figured I wouldn't be able to stop you," retorted Obi-Wan. "If you'd rather…"

"No, no," Anakin grinned. "I just don't expect her to be on the platform."

"And miss welcoming you home he way she's no doubt wished to for the last five years?" Obi-Wan shook his head. "Trust me, Anakin; you'll want to deal with the politicians this time."

"Escort ships have formed up, General Kenobi," Cody reported, cutting off whatever else Anakin might have said, "opening the blaster shields now; on final approach."

"I copy Commander. Look sharp. If anything is going to happen, now would be the time."

"Yes, sir."

Quiet descended within the ship as they could hear the repulsors winding down as they arced in to line up the approach on the Jedi temple. The blast shields retracted, giving the occupants a blurred view of the city skyline as the ship turned and evened out, wind whipping whistling through the slats but doing no more than ruffling their clothing.

It was barely a minute before the whine of the repulsors sped up and the ship banked, turning on its landing trajectory before coming down on the designated landing pad. With the temple largely by itself and not surrounded by tall towers, it left few places for snipers to gain an upper hand; using the main landing pad on one of the outer edges at the top of the temple, made it all that more secure.

Anakin strained to see beyond the slats, his eyes stinging and watering from the wind as they raced towards touch down, his mind already beyond the transfer and onto the reunion with his wife-

There was a brief thump as the ship settled, Cody practicing a little fancy flying, before the doors retracted. By agreement, Obi-Wan, Anakin and Ahsoka were visible, lightsabers in hand but not lit, Rex and Fives at either edge of the deck, blasters drawn and at the ready.

"Good it is to see," Master Yoda told them with a nod of approval, "your duties you do not take lightly."

Obi-Wan clipped his lightsaber back to his belt first and inclined his upper body. "Master Yoda; where's the rest of the council?"

Anakin was barely aware of Obi-Wan speaking with Yoda, his attention focused beyond the Jedi Masters, on the pale young woman in a hover chair beside Chancellor Palpatine, speaking with him in a low tone. She hadn't noticed the ship had landed and the doors opened yet; none of the Senators or their entourage had. Around them were holo reporters and Anakin dismissed everyone but his wife out of hand.

Without thinking about it, he stepped off the ship, not even having the presence of mind to belt his lightsaber as Threepio touched her shoulder and brought her attention to the drop ship. Her head came around, her eyes widening with delight and love, unexpected tears visible to him even at this distance.

Padmé.

The look that sizzled between them was as loaded with intent and emotion as it ever was and, after almost eight months of being away, her physical presence was like a beacon; a magnet calling to him and drawing him in.

"Anakin."

Obi-Wan's call drew him up short when he took another step, her welcoming smile everything he'd hoped for; everything he'd dreamed… except he had duties to tend to first. Visibly shaking himself, he glanced at Obi-Wan, noting the stern expression and then blinked when his old Master shook his head. "You'll be of no use until you see her, will you?"

Looking helplessly back towards Padmé as if drawn by some invisible force, Anakin couldn't disagree. To see her so worn and wan because of his actions was almost unbearable from across the landing pad.

Yoda's sudden laugh was enough to draw Anakin's attention back to the other Jedi. "Go, you must, if Master Plo is to help us, Skywalker."

It was unspoken permission carried in an amused admonishment. And it was only at that moment he noted Master Plo Koon standing just behind and to the side of Padmé, his watchful countenance a reassuring one. Anakin inclined the briefest of bows to Yoda and strode across the landing pad, his gaze firmly fixed on his wife. Not the Chancellor or his aids or the holo reporters that suddenly seemed to swarm him as he approached had any effect on his focus.

Padmé was here to welcome him home and, for the first time since their marriage, he could without fear of ramifications. Much to his surprise, as he drew near, Padmé pushed herself free of the hover chair. Her expression was radiant and while he couldn't hear her over the buzz of the voices around him, he could read her lips as she said one word.

Anakin.

The grin that split his face was delighted and ecstatic all at once.

His pace increased, stepping up to a run as she took two steps towards him, her arms coming up in anticipation of his embrace. It was all that was needed to propel her into his arms-

"Anakin!Are you listening to me?"

Anakin shook his head, clearing his sight, and realized they hadn't yet landed, the ship coming in on final approach and Obi-Wan's expression was amused. His long awaited 'reunion' had been nothing but a figment of his imagination. He should have known; Yoda and Obi-Wan would never have condoned the behavior he wanted to exhibit. Disappointed, he shot a dark look at his old Master. "And what are you smiling about?"

"Oh nothing," the older Jedi returned, glancing back to check on the stasis pod. "Just remember, Anakin; one of the reasons the Council hasn't stripped you of your rank yet is the discretion you and Padmé have shown. When we land, do try to remember that, hmm?"

It was a timely warning as Cody spun the drop ship around smoothly to settle to the landing pad. The repulsors whined down but the doors didn't open. Obi-Wan nodded to Rex and Fives, both in their full uniforms, blasters in hand and at the ready as they flanked the stasis pod.

Ahsoka stood near the hollow where Lux was hidden, her hands well away from her lightsabers, but casually draped so that, should the need arise, she'd have them in hand within moments. Anakin released the strap and ran a cursory glance over Fives and Rex; both were in good shape and, as ordered, at the ready.

On the other side of the stasis pod, Obi-Wan waited until the engines on the ship had spun down before keying his comlink. "Nice landing, Commander. Would you be so kind as to get the hatch?"

"Right away General; everything looks clear out here. There's... quite the greeting party."

"Anything suspicious?"

"No sir; but I suspect General Skywalker will want to come out first."

"Oh?" Obi-Wan and Anakin exchanged looks. "Why's that?"

"The holo reporters sir," Cody informed him shortly. "They're... everywhere."

"It wasn't unexpected, Commander we did just land with Count Dooku in custody."

"It's not that, sir," Cody reported as he popped the hatch instead of the main doors and slipped inside. "It would appear Master Skywalker has become something more of a celebrity."

"More of one?"

"Jedi poster boy," Ahsoka whispered to Lux in answer. "I'll fill you in later."

Anakin ignored his Padawan and the Bonteri boy. "Is it safe to do the transfer, Commander?"

"I would prefer to clear the area first, sir; the crowd right now is enough to hide a detractor or two and the vehicles still circling offer too many chances. I'd rather not take the risk."

"Rex, Fives, join Cody and clear out the crowd."

"Anakin," Obi-Wan held up one hand, forestalling that order. "Perhaps Cody is right. If you get out first and draw them away, we can handle the transfer."

"You want me to speak with the holo reporters?"

"Why not? You're something of a novelty all around, give them their five minutes of madness and let's get this over with."

Anakin sighed heavily, glancing through the blast shield gaps and swung down to the hatchway where Cody backed away. "I'd say you owe me for this," he turned on Obi-Wan before disappearing, "but I think your tactics are sound. Ahsoka?"

"I know, Skyguy," she grinned. "I'll keep him out of trouble."

With a nod, Anakin disappeared, ducking out of the drop ship and into a small sea of people. Holo reporters from dozens of different stations waited, species he didn't recognize suddenly pushing forward, records and stills being taken with an alarming frequency as Anakin bent to avoid knocking his head on the low angle of the wing.

Arden was at the front of the pack, her grin almost feral. "Master Jedi," she greeted, drawing everyone's attention. "Welcome back to Coruscant."

Anakin straightened and almost returned an identical grin as hers was wiped from her face. In holo she was much, much bigger and barely reached the middle of his chest in person. Beyond the reporters were the patiently waiting Jedi - Masters Fisto, Secura and Mundi; Anakin could sense Master Yoda's presence, but not see him and Anakin suspected he wouldn't have the chance to greet the Masters with the circus blocking his path.

It meant, he reluctantly realized, he would have to deal with the reporters before he could pay his respects to the council. If he was able to get to the council.

"Arden." his greeting was curt; this was not a meeting he'd been looking forward to since Cody had said 'reporters' but he'd known it was coming. Padmé had warned him of this possibility. Lifting his hands, he gave them a look that demanded obedience and - surprisingly - got it in the form of silence. "I can't thank you all for coming," he offered, stepping forward as his hands dropped, "and I'm sure you all have questions regarding the capture of Count Dooku-"

"We're more interested in your status as a husband and father," some voice from the crowd called out.

Another echoed the sentiment. "Can we get a statement, Jedi Skywalker?"

And then the comments and questions flew about him like thermal detonators and, one or two, made him wish he could pick out the commentators to clarify a few facts. The sheer volume of questions startled him and Anakin was left flat footed, not quite sure how to respond.

"Your wife's been seen in the company of many men with you on the front lines; how do you feel about that?"

"How about another statement now that you've had time to think about your change of status?"

"Is it true you had no idea that your wife was pregnant?"

"Have you had any contact at all that we're unaware of being on assignment in the outer rim?"

"Can you be sure the babies are yours?"

"Can you give us a word to describe your feelings, perhaps?"

"Delighted, no doubt," a smooth voice stepped in, drawing the attention away from Anakin. "For what else would a man so intensely private as to keep the most important part of his life hidden from the public eye for this long be?"

There was a murmur as the reporters turned towards the Chancellor, a line of space appearing between Anakin and Palpatine, allowing Anakin to move away from the drop ship. He moved alone, Cody staying back by the ship to prevent anyone from trying to get inside. Anakin's steps were even and forcibly relaxed as he stuck to the plan; draw the reporter's attention away from the drop ship.

"Your Excellency," he stopped and swept into a bow to the Chancellor.

There was a flash from somewhere to their left as a receptor was adjusted to catch the by-play in all its holographic glory. Anakin chaffed at the delay, able to see the Nabooian transport across the landing platform and wanting nothing more than to race towards it, he knew he couldn't. Not yet. He had to keep the attention off it until Ahsoka was able to get Lux Bonteri on board.

"It's good to see you again, Master Skywalker."

"And you, Excellency; your timing is, as always, perfect."

Palpatine smiled. "I do try, my boy. Come," he extended one arm, high up, as if to indicate that Anakin should stand next to him. "A holo for the reporters, I should think. The hero who captured Count Dooku!"

"I didn't do it alone," he corrected. "Master Kenobi and my Padawan, Ahsoka Tano, were also involved in his defeat. It was more of a team effort."

"Such modesty," Palpatine smiled benignly for the cameras, his bearing proud and tolerant, as if sharing a confidence. "I did warn you all, did I not?" The reporters laughed. "Come, Anakin; stand here."

Slipping under the Chancellor's arm and standing next to the man he'd always considered a mentor and friend, a chill skated inexplicably down his spine and he almost drew back. The hand at his back, which had slipped from his shoulders downwards, lay against his spine. With the contact, Anakin had the strangest impression that the Chancellor wasn't as thrilled about Count Dooku's capture as he appeared to be.

Which made no sense and Anakin, with nothing more than the inkling, dismissed it without giving it more than an idle notice.

"Smile, my boy," admonished the Chancellor jovially. "You return home a conquering hero with Count Dooku in tow and the revelation of the romance of the decade."

"You exaggerate, your Excellency," Anakin returned, managing a grin that was forced. He leaned in as the holo reporters flitted about them to take their holos, his smile turning anticipatory. "But, speaking of Padmé; is she with you?"

"She thought it best to wait on the ship," Palpatine confided, also in an aside, never losing his jovial expression. "The poor girl is exhausted; I hear your twins are quite the handful."

Something in the Chancellor's words settled wrong with Anakin, the gleam in the older man's eye almost avaricious for a split second before his peaceful, proud smile returned. As if... as if Palpatine wanted his children? Anakin shook the thought away; it was preposterous and he was being paranoid. Chancellor Palpatine would have no use for twins, especially Force sensitive twins.

"Chancellor, just how well do you know Master Skywalker?"

Anakin turned in Arden's direction as the question left her lips, surprised; it was the first question worth answering that morning and the only one she'd thus far asked.

Palpatine released Anakin and folded his hands together within his robes, taking a few steps further away from the shuttle and the drop ship, as if understanding what Anakin was trying to do. "Oh very well; I first met Anakin when I was the Senator for Naboo and his future wife, Padmé Amidala, was Queen. Anakin was little more than a boy at the time but had done us a great service. He is a Hero among my people and always will be."

"Those heroics were a long time ago; surely, though by no means a small feat, the actions of that boy haven't dictated your interactions with him."

"Not dictated, no. I made sure that a child of so many talents was never denied my company when he wished it. While almost nothing of that boy remains, in the intervening years I have done my best to offer him what guidance I could with regards to his career."

"As a Jedi, is not up to the Jedi Council to direct his path?"

"Of course," Palpatine agreed amiably. "However, the Jedi do not discourage their members from forming friendships outside the order. I made a point of being available to offer another point of view. After all, a Jedi must have all the facts and understand all angles of a situation before they can make an educated decision."

"Do you do this for all Jedi, your Excellency?"

"The Council, on occasion, seeks my opinion," his words were modest. "However, as Anakin was instrumental in securing the freedom of Naboo, I won't deny a certain level of affection for him above other Jedi. No Nabooian would."

"Is that why it was acceptable for him to have such a close working relationship with Senator Amidala before their marriage was brought to light?"

"A good part of it, I'm sure. She was, after all, his first friend away from his home planet who was not a Jedi. I did not find it at all odd that they were so close. No one did; they were quite accomplished in their deception."

"Be that as it may, you mentioned when Senator Amidala's condition first became public that you wouldn't be surprised if she had a husband hiding in the shadows; were you surprised to discover it was Master Skywalker?"

"Senator Ami – pardon, Senator Skywalker," Palpatine inclined his head towards Anakin in apology as he continued, "has always had a very dynamic working relationship with Master Skywalker," Palpatine's smile was paternal as he looked back at Anakin. "I can't say I hadn't hoped the boy would encourage her, but I never believed it to be more than a hope. The Jedi, after all, do not allow these kind of attachments for a reason. I was simply delighted to learn of their nuptials; however belated I was informed of the facts."

Somehow, Anakin managed not to wince at the barb even though it had been well disguised and wrapped in velvet. Palpatine was pleased, yes, but also put out. It was a confidence Anakin had chosen not to share and, with the magnitude of those he had, no wonder the Chancellor felt slighted.

"You don't think it's odd they chose to keep their union a secret?"

"On the contrary, I think it was very wise of them."

Anakin was drawn with them, glancing back to see Cody, Fives and Rex were outside the ship playing bodyguard and keeping a watchful eye on the reporters. As the Chancellor walked away, drawing most of the holo reporters with them, Anakin walked at his side but only gave half an ear to what the Chancellor was saying. His mental focus was more split between the drop ship where Rex, Fives and Cody were opening the hatch to allow Obi-Wan to remove the stasis pod with the Council member's help, and the Nabooian transport where Padmé and his children waited across the platform.

All around him, holo reporters were jockeying for position and Anakin, without thinking, put out his arm to ensure they were kept back. As he did so, two of the Chancellor's personal guard slipped in and pushed them back further. Arden, who seemed to be spearheading the questions that now came from all sides, was left alone. Anakin, as he turned his attention back to Palpatine, noted that the two of them appeared to be on friendly terms. As if they'd done this often.

Which, when he thought about it, made perfect sense; Arden was based out of Coruscant and Palpatine rarely left. She was likely the reporter he dealt with most.

"What do you think, Master Skywalker?"

Arden's voice broke through his preoccupation and he jerked his attention back her way, just barely managing not to jump. Wouldn't that have just looked classic for the news? "I'm sorry," he deliberately glanced towards the Nabooian craft and then flashed Arden a half smile. "I'm a little distracted. What was the question?"

Palpatine and the holo reporters nearest him chuckled, Arden returning his smile tolerantly. "I was asking if your wife will continue in politics once the war is over or do you think she, and by extension you, will retire from public life to focus on your family?"

"I wouldn't presume to speak for her," Anakin's tone was dry. "My wife, as the galaxy knows, is a very opinionated person. I'm sure when the time comes we'll discuss it. The plan may be to take her into hiding for the duration of her leave from the Senate, but I'm not confident once that time is up she will be comfortable being out of the arena. Once we've discussed the matter, we will no doubt be keeping everyone informed as to her intentions and my own."

"I see. Do you find it at all odd that she's had no contact with us at all since releasing the prepared statement regarding your marriage?"

"She has two babies to take care of that aren't yet a month old, Arden; what do you think?"

"I think I'm grateful that you've taken the time to speak with us on both of your behalves, Master Skywalker."

"And now that this has all been settled," cut in Palpatine, "I believe the exchange is going forward as planned. If you'll all come this way, we will confirm that it is indeed Count Dooku who has been captured. Anakin, I believe your wife is waiting for you aboard that transport?"

"Before you go, Anakin," Arden's smile was charming. "May we ask about your initial plans upon leaving Coruscant?"

"Without risking too much in way of our long-term plans as I have no desire to place my family in danger, I can tell you this much," Anakin offered. "I have a personal apology to make to her parents about not including them in our deception."

"Best of luck." Arden winced almost comically as if empathizing. "Thank you for answering our questions once again, Master Skywalker."

He inclined his head with a smile but said nothing further, waiting as the holo reporters were directed towards where Obi-Wan, Yoda and several other Jedi were lifting the stasis pod free of the drop ship. The Republic guards held them at a distance, ensuring they didn't interfere as the Jedi went about their business.

Anakin, left behind for the spectacle, turned in time to see Ahsoka coming back down the ramp of the Nabooian transport. She then, to his surprise, called on the Force and, boosting her speed, darted around behind the reporters. Ducking under the drop ship, she made it look as if she'd followed the Masters out instead of having snuck away before hand.

Good girl.

It meant Lux was safely aboard the Nabooian transport and Anakin could leave the transfer of Dooku to the capable hands of the other Jedi. Turning back to the Nabooian transport and the wife that waited him, he'd barely gone a few steps before Master Plo Koon descended the ramp of the ship, Padmé at his side. She had one arm on the Master Jedi's forearm for support, her head cocked to the side, her gaze on the exchange happening between the Jedi and the swarm of holo reporters that Palpatine was expertly juggling.

They stopped at the base of the ramp, Padmé giving her head a shake as the Jedi Master made a motion Anakin interpreted as asking if she wished to join the group. He watched as she scanned the crowd, his heart swelling as he stepped up his pace, knowing she looked for him.

Plo Koon said something else to her, lifting his head to look straight at Anakin and then motioned in his direction. Padmé turned, her eyes widening with delight and love.

It was just like he'd pictured in his mind's eye - minus the tears - as they'd come upon the landing zone. The look sizzling between them loaded with intent and emotion as it ever was and, after almost eight months of being away, her physical presence was like a beacon; a magnet calling to him and drawing him in.

Padmé.

The grin that split his face was delighted and ecstatic all at once.

His pace increased, stepping up to a run as she released the Jedi Master's arm and took several steps towards him, her arms coming up in anticipation of his embrace. It was all that was needed to propel her into his arms. He caught her, spinning her around as he buried his face in the curve of her neck. Her arms wrapped around him tightly, her face ducking to the side of his and her suddenly laugh rang in his ears.

Blatantly ignoring Master Plo Koon's presence, Anakin spun her around once more before putting her back on her feet and swept in to cover her lips with his. The kiss was drugging and passionate; a welcome and a triumph all in one.

"Padmé," her name was but a whisper as their lips parted and he pulled her into a tight embrace, kissing her briefly again before speaking nearly against her lips. "I've missed you. Force how I've missed you!"

"Anakin," his name was a breathless whisper on hers. "I can't believe you're here!" Their lips met again, Anakin cradling her head in one hand as his fingers burrowed into her hair. "I feel like I'm dreaming."

Their foreheads touched.

"It's been too long," he agreed, drinking in the sight of her like a man dying of thirst.

"I trust you'll take it from here, Master Skywalker?"

Anakin's head came up sharply at the amused tone in Master Plo Koon's voice. He blinked, reorienting himself. Master Plo Koon was one of those Jedi who, like Anakin, had a wife and children but, unlike Anakin, had them because his society dictated it.

The other Jedi continued. "I will join Master Yoda to supervise the transfer. My Lady," he inclined his head once again to the couple, this time directing his comments to Padmé. "As always, your company has been stimulating and delightful. It has been my honor, Senator Skywalker. Be well."

"Thank you, Master Plo," she returned, reaching out to grasp his hand and squeeze before releasing him and sliding the arm back around Anakin. "Thank you so much."

"Yes," Anakin offered with a nod. "My thanks, Master Plo; for being here when I could not."

Plo Koon inclined his head once more to them both and then turned, striding towards where the gathered Jedi and holo reporters were waiting for the stasis pod to be installed in a secure transport to be removed to the interior of the temple. The clones had set up in a triangle prong formation around the pod as the Jedi moved it together, keeping watch. Ahsoka, not actually involved in the transfer and her task complete, was standing near Rex and keeping a wary eye out for danger, both from the reporters and the circling craft.

Anakin had already dismissed the Master and barely taken note of the other occurrences on the landing pad. His focus had returned almost immediately to the woman in his arms, his smile almost boyish in his delight. Reaching up, he brushed his fingers over her cheek, drinking in the sight of her. "I can't believe you're here in my arms again," he murmured, leaning down to kiss her once more.

Padmé clung to him, returning his kiss, her fingers tangled in his hair with almost desperate strength. Her kiss was tinged with an emotion he couldn't read and didn't understand.

Reluctantly, Anakin pulled away, able to sense her exhaustion despite her exhilaration. "I was hoping you'd welcome me home some day like this," he murmured with a soft smile, "but I never dreamed you do it when you're so tired."

"You're worth it," she told him firmly, her eyes shining. "I missed you, Anakin; there have been rumors... so many rumors..." she shook her head. "Rumors that you'd been killed or horribly injured and-."

"I'm all right," he assured her, brushing his lips over hers once more to cut her off even as he tightened his grip. "I'm here; whole and hale. I'm home." Their lips met once more and then Anakin swept her into his arms, making her gasp as she clung to him, breaking their kiss. "You're dead on your feet, my love; let's get you to bed."

"Will you come with me?"

With one foot on the ramp, Anakin blinked down at his wife in surprise. "So soon?"

"The doctor said we could as long as we're careful," she assured him as a faint blush stained her cheeks, "and I have missed you; desperately."

He groaned. "Later," he assured her, kissing her again and putting every ounce of promise that word held into it. There was nothing he'd rather do than retire with her to their room, but Anakin knew he couldn't. Not yet. He had other duties to perform first and an anticipation to fulfill. "First I want to meet Luke and Leia."

Not objecting in the least to his hold, Padmé curled closer into his embrace as Anakin carried her onto the ship. The trip to Naboo, if Artoo helped set the nav computer coordinates, would take several days. He had every intention of enjoying them and getting reacquainted with his wife while getting to know the twins.

Nodding to Moté, he motioned the handmaiden to keep watch as he stepped into the common room. Anakin paused. Lux Bonteri was on board, Artoo keeping him company, and he drew Padmé's attention their way as he gently set her down and helped her onto one of the benches that lined the walls. He wasn't exactly sure how Artoo had beat him to the ship, but he was grateful for the astromech's presence.

"Padmé, you remember Lux Bonteri?"

"Lux," she extended her hands and the young Senator rose, crossing to take them both as he bowed. "I never got to tell you how sorry I am about your mother; she was... she was like family."

"Thank you for your condolences but you did not have to say anything, Lady Skywalker; your feelings were plain." Lux assured her, casting a cryptic look at Anakin. It didn't escape the Jedi that Lux had addressed his wife properly. "My mother was ever grateful for your friendship and I know her death must weigh heavily upon you." He offered a tight, formal smile. "She would not have wanted the blame for the results of your last encounter at your feet and, in truth, I cannot blame you. You gave her hope where there was none, a chance we did not expect, and made her smile again. Her murderer, a man who did everything to thwart peace, is now in Jedi custody. I only hope he will pay for his many crimes."

"It is a Jedi matter," Padmé agreed, glancing at Anakin. "They will manage it as they see fit. It's possible by interrogating him, Dooku will at least bring about the end of this war."

Lux didn't look happy about it and Anakin steered the direction of the conversation away from Dooku. "Lux will be coming with us, Padmé," Anakin told her as he settled next to her. The young Senator released Padmé's hands and stepped back, reaching over to place one hand on Artoo's dome. "Unless you've an objection?"

"What? No! No objection." Padmé assured him, lifting his arm and curling close as he wrapped it about her shoulders. "You're more than welcome, Lux," she assured the boy. "I assume this means the Republic is unaware of your presence here?"

"Master Skywalker has ensured it."

"I - what's that?" Anakin frowned, hearing a gurgling noise and rose to his feet, his hand near his lightsaber.

Padmé laughed. "That, Ani," she teased fondly, "is the sound our daughter or son make when they're content."

Anakin's hand dropped away from his lightsaber as Padmé pushed to her feet and crossed the room, stopping beside a bassinette that was connected to the wall. Anakin hadn't noted it when he'd first entered. She bent at the waist, her smile so softly wondering and loving, it made his throat ache. She extended her arm his way, one hand beckoning as the other rested gently on the wall.

"Lux?" Anakin didn't take his gaze from Padmé and didn't initially move towards her.

"Master Jedi?"

"Go start the pre-flight check, would you? We'll be leaving soon." The young Senator nodded, turning to head for the cockpit. "Artoo, go with him; help program the nav computer for Naboo."

The droid whistled his accent, leaving Padmé and Anakin alone once more. Moving to her side, he took her hand, his fingers twining with hers as he followed her gaze. Twin pairs of blue eyes stared back at him. One baby was slightly larger than the other, but both smiled identical toothless grins as a smile crossed his own lips unbidden.

"Anakin," Padmé squeezed his fingers and reached out to gently stroke one baby's cheek, "This is our son, Luke," and then the other's, making her gurgle, "and our daughter, Leia. They've been waiting to meet their father."

Anakin tightened his grip on Padmé's hand, drawing her closer and then wrapped his arm about her waist as emotion blocked his throat. Reaching out with his free hand, he did as she'd done, and gently stroked Luke's cheek and then Leia's. "They're... they're so small."

"Babies usually are, Ani," she assured him. "Don't worry; they'll grow."

"I can't believe... they're so beautiful...I don't..." he struggled to find just the right words, not quite able to and then gave up, addressing his next soft comment to the twins. "Hello, little ones."

As he was pulling his hand back, Leia reached out and grasped his index finger, Luke latching onto his pinky and both babies promptly stuck them in their mouths. Anakin froze, unsure of what exactly he was supposed to do.

Padmé chuckled softly. "They're saying hello."

Turning to look at her even as his children sucked on his fingers, Anakin dipped his head to kiss her gently, achingly, trying to tell her without words just how he felt when he couldn't identify it himself. She seemed to understand he couldn't describe it for she returned the charged kiss with one of her own before pulling back and using the hand that had been against the wall to cup his face. Her smile was tender.

"Welcome home, Anakin."

TBC