Chapter 129

AN: I feel horrible for how long it has been. Honestly, I will be trying to update more frequently. Time just happens to fly at times! Please continue to read and review.

Ari arrived up at the bridge just minutes later, R4 at her side with Taga scampering behind. Not everyone was used to the furry alien, but due to his size, not many paid that much attention to him either.

"What is the status on the battle?" Ari asked, seeing General Palson and Tem, along with some of the other Rebels.

"The battle started a short time ago, concerning the Ssi-Ruuk. However, there are a few other reports that make me wonder if those in power on Bakura want us there," Major Derlin spoke up.

"Why do you say that?" Ari asked, frowning. Something did seem off, but she couldn't place it. Perhaps she was still shaken by the discs, or the news of the battle.

"Reports have been down for a few minutes now and while it was hard to tell, it sounded as if some of the Imperial ships were firing on ours."

"But we are there to help them," Tem was frowning. "Everyone there is risking their life to help them!"

"Ari, I would like to talk to you," Bren Derlin spoke and lead her a few yards from others on the bridge, which was not an easy task with everyone rushing from one post to another.

"What is it?" the young woman questioned, not liking how he sounded.

"I am sure that he is fine, but the last reports we received also said Commander Skywalker has been captured by the Ssi-Ruuk."

"What?" Ari asked. She had heard him, but had she heard him correctly? Luke was one of the best fighters. How could he just be captured like that? Then I realized it all made sense. Luke was a Jedi, something not seen for decades in the galaxy. More than likely, if they saw his ability, they would want to use him for their own means. Also, if the government on the planet had turned on us, it would be much easier to get Luke to them.

"I should have gone," Ari muttered. "I was such a fool!" She had to see Siri, Taylor and Eean. Or at least, that is what she had thought. Could it be that she had made a mistake that could cost Luke his life?

"I need a ship," she told Bren. "Immediately."

"You know that I can't allow you to just leave. We need you here. Besides, what if something happens to you as well? As far as I know, you are the only two Jedi."

Ari frowned, biting her lip. He had a few good points. She had more responsibilities now. She didn't want to admit he was right about the Jedi. Yes, there was still Taylor, but it was not possible for Ari to contact her if necessary. The idea of being the only one starting teaching other Jedi made her heart skip a beat.

It was more than just teaching alone though. It was also the thought of losing Luke at all. He was her best friend, her confidante, and the man she loved.

"Luke…" she whispered so softly it was nearly inaudible to her. There was no answer, not that she expected there to be. She had sensed him on Endor, but this was much further. She refused to let any other ideas come to her as for the reason she could not sense him through the Force. Luke could not come this far only to have everything end like this.

Ari knew she couldn't go to Bakura. Her rational self starting to take control again and she knew that by the time she got there, the battle would be over and it would make no difference whether she was there or not. However, she might make a difference from doing her duty.

"You are right," Ari nodded after letting out a deep sigh. "Let's get back to work."

The next few hours sped by, not just with the few random messages that got to them, but with others in the Alliance. While the Empire had been defeated, news had not reached to all parts of the galaxy and many of those that heard the news did not believe it yet.

When Ari finally was able to return to her room, she was exhausted. The ships were set to be a standard 24 hour day and the new day had officially begun hours before she managed to half stumble into her room.

R4 was charging and Taga had fallen asleep, curled up on her pillow. Ari had sent them back after a few hours since there was not much either of them could do to help.

Ari leaned against the wall and pulled off her boots and let out a small sigh of relief. She was used to wearing them for long hours, but it was nice to take them off and allow herself a moment to relax. It seemed that the chances for such a time were short and rare.

Unclipping her belt, she placed it on the desk. Then she changed out of her uniform and into more casual night clothes.

She laid down on the bed and pulled the blanket over herself, being careful not to disturb Taga as she laid her head down on the pillow as well.

She was tired, but had some doubts about sleep. Yet, she did not have time to dwell on her worries about Luke, the battle at Bakura or anything she had seen on the discs, because as soon as her head touched the pillow she fell asleep

A beeping sound pulled Ari from her sleep and she gave a small groan, still feeling a bit groggy.

She opened her eyes slowly and then got off the bed, going to the desk where she had placed her belt. Attached to it was her lightsaber and comm. which was the cause of the insistent beeping.

"Narabe," she answered, voice sounding still heavy from sleep.

"Ari, it is Major Derlin."

"Is everything alright?" she asked, glancing over at the chrono. That explained why she felt like she had not been asleep long. It had not been only about three hours.

"I have good news," he stated and that perked her interest immediately. She saw movement out of the corner of her eye and saw that Taga was now awake, watching her as he stretched. R4 was turning its domed head to look at her as well.

"What is it?"

"The battle is over. Bakura's government is the first to officially join the Alliance since the war ended."

"Really?" she asked, a smile forming. All their hard work had paid off. She had been worried, but apparently there had been no reason to be. Then her smile faded. Battles had casualties and she already knew that both sides had losses. "Have there been any reports about our troops?"

"Some, but they are still coming in. I don't think you should worry too much though," he answered. Ari was certain he knew why she was asking, but it was probably too soon to know much.

"Can I help with anything?" Ari offered.

"Not yet. Though you will be needed soon. Some of the fleet is already on their way here and it shouldn't be too long before the rest follow."

"Alright."

"You have time for another hour or two of sleep. I suggest you take it. Tomorrow will be a busy day."