Author's Note: Guys, next chapter is it. Like... it's it. This story is over after the next chapter. This chapter is pretty long and explains where everyone is ending up before the end. Also, hint by the title where everyone wants to be.

At 567 reviews, 464 followers, 356 favorites and over 126,000 views... this story has only made it this far because of all of you. Thank you so much.

Also. After all the crap I've put you guys through, all the drama, all the craziness. I think y'all deserve the fluff that's coming to you from here on out. So... enjoy!

Reviews:

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Two Weeks Later...

Groaning. Insistent and quite honestly, depressingly awful groaning was coming from the red-haired girl as she tried everything in her power to zip up her olive colored jumper. The zipper wouldn't budge over the slight bump that was beginning to form in her midsection. It had only been two weeks since she had found out of her pregnancy and already she was having a miserable time. Okay, no, that was a clear exaggeration. She was happy to be pregnant. Her hormones said otherwise. And still, she didn't really look pregnant yet. But damn, could she feel it. Between morning sickness and her constant mood swings. Now this? Ashlyn was over the excitement. At least for now until the bad stuff was over.

"Everything okay in there, darling?" The powerful woman's voice asked as she walked into the bedroom to see if Ash was indeed fine (and secretly also making sure she hadn't hopped off the balcony and ran away. Yes, she realized, that was a liable fear at this point in time all things considered). She saw the disappointed look on the girls face as she tried to squeeze the fabric together. "Oh, Ashlyn." Phasma smiled sympathetically. "We must get you new clothes."

"I knew I wasn't going to fit in this outfit for much longer, I just didn't think it would be so soon." Ash complained, turning to face Phasma in her half-zipped jumper. Her white tank top that no longer rested easily on her exposed form underneath as her arms fell to her sides in defeat. "What do I wear now?" Ash asked, wandering over to the closet, knowing there were no pants inside that would really fit her. The small collection of clothes she had were brought down from the destroyer along with a strangely numerous number of black garments of Kylo Ren's. Ash could have sworn they were all literally the same outfit repeated over and over again considering she had never seen her husband wear anything else.

"I can take you out in the city today." Phasma suggested; taking her new role as Ashlyn's bodyguard quite seriously. "I'm sure our gracious hosts can point us in the right direction to a dressmaker."

Ash grimaced. "Forgive me for not being so eager to jump on the chance to get out of here for a while, but, I still don't have anything to go out in."

"I can see what I have in my closet."

Ash sighed, her eyes skimming the closet again only to stop at the bright orange flight suit that seemed to be stuffed in the very back of her side. She smiled somewhat hopeful. "Actually, I have something."

"I'll let you get to it." Phasma nodded, turning out of the bedroom and back into the living area. Although, she'd be lying if she said she wasn't the least bit concerned at what Ashlyn was going to pick.

Without much thought or effort, Ash grabbed the resistance flight suit and removed her original tight clothing. She grabbed a loose fitting black shirt from Kylo Ren's side and shimmied into the flight suit, tying the sleeves around her waist just enough to keep them from falling down and without being too tight on her sensitive midsection. She looked ridiculous, but it would have to do.

Walking out of her bedroom, her arms outstretched in presentation as she turned; beaming. "Well?"

Phasma chuckled. "'Well', is right."

"I tried, okay?"

"You did try." Phasma agreed. "It will do for now."

When Luke Skywalker entered the security chamber that held Kylo Ren, he was pleasantly surprised when he saw his nephew standing. He was adjusting his top, trying to straighten out the wrinkles from the passed almost three weeks now. Luke felt the dramatic shift that morning, he knew what that meant. It was time to let Kylo Ren out of his cell. "How are we feeling today, Ben?"

Ren snorted. "I need to shower."

Luke let out an airy chuckle at his unscathed sarcasm. "I figured." He agreed as he moved away from the door, allowing his nephew to step out of the cell and into the bright fluorescent lighting of the Ascension. "It is currently mid-afternoon on Chandrila; a beautiful seventy-three degrees." Luke made small talk as he walked alongside his silent nephew. "There is much to discuss, most of it I have no part in as I will be leaving soon now that you're up and about." Ren's brown quirked upward at that. "I'm taking the remaining two stones and relocating them to a safer and out of reach place. They're not needed any longer."

Ren nodded; relief washing over him as he saw his apartment door. "They're expecting me on Chandrila now?"

"They are." Luke confirmed. "Some more than others. Though, you may want to take that slow, all things considered."

"Planned on it." Ren agreed as the door to his apartment slid open. "However, you don't know my wife like I do. She won't have that." Luke merely grinned as the apartment door closed between them. He'd give his nephew a moment to freshen up, he badly needed it after being secluded for so long.

Captain Phasma lead Ashlyn to the nearby dressmaker who was more than helpful when it came to creating maternity clothes for her. Although, Ashlyn was really having a hard time adjusting to the idea of someday having an even bigger bump under her clothes. That day would be coming much sooner than later, she realized. And with a sigh, she agreed to the comfortable dress idea that would be sent to her new apartment once completed.

For now, all she could think about was stuffing her face with buttersweet puffs. Something she swore she had no idea she liked until she tried one at the senate building and became addicted. To her defense, it was the cravings that really made it such a big fanfare. That and her new craving for pickled Corellian buckwheat noodles. A typically disgusting dish that she was dying for.

As the two women walked back to the senate building; the pair taking their time to enjoy the warm sun as Ash walked in her absolutely ridiculous outfit. Perhaps the new maternity clothes were not so awful of an idea. "I saw more senators arriving this morning." Ash commented in passing.

Phasma hummed in acknowledgement. "They're preparing for a rather large meeting with Hux and General Organa. And of course, once Kylo Ren is ready. If things run on schedule, there should be the vote later this week."

Ash flinched at the name; the two hadn't been sharing dreams since he appeared in her kitchen two weeks earlier. "I feel like everyone is tiptoeing around me when it comes to my husband. No one wants to be the one to inform me of how he's doing. It's always we'll tell you when we know something. It would be easier if I could go up there and see him."

"Unfortunately, you know that's not possible." Phasma said. "A woman in your position should refrain from too much travel. I know it's still early in your pregnancy, but you should be careful at overexerting yourself."

She frowned. "I'm pregnant, not dying."

"From the way it sounded this morning as you tried to fit into your clothes, I could have sworn it was the latter." Phasma teased as Ash reluctantly laughed at that. "However, it is true. We don't know anything more on your husband right now except that he's recovering. If there was anything substantial to report we would tell you."

It made sense, however, that didn't make it any less frustrating for Ash as she plopped down on a nearby cement bench. She would stall as long as possible to stay outside and not go back in to the boring and mundane. Phasma wasn't daft either, she knew what Ash was doing and instead of fighting her, she sat down next to her. "I was talking to Senator Varrek a few days ago." Ash said, making small talk. "He said it's springtime here on Chandrila." She nodded to the the flowers all around them in the courtyard. "Everything is so pretty."

"And spring is known for bringing new beginnings." Phasma added. "A new start, new romance." As if on cue, the two were no longer alone as Rey and Finn wandered into the courtyard. The two women on the bench noticing their hands laced together. A notion that quickly ended as Rey and Finn noticed them staring and grinning. Rey now blushing as Finn rubbed the back of his neck nervously as the two walked over.

"New romance indeed." Ash teased as she looked at Rey and Finn. "It's such a nice day, isn't it?" She asked knowingly.

Rey beamed as she managed to squeeze next to Ash on the bench, resting her head on the girl's shoulder and trying to change the subject. "How are you feeling today?"

Ash sighed. "If my outfit is to say for any of it; not the best."

"Yeah, what's with the outfit-" Finn began to ask, biting his tongue as Phasma glared at him. "It's a cool new look, don't get me wrong!" He immediately tried to recover. "Just wasn't expecting see you in the jumper, is all."

Phasma rolled her eyes. "Smooth."

"I don't fit in my normal attire anymore." Ash explained finally with a hint of defeat.

Rey sat up straight again. "But that's a good thing though. That means he's healthy and growing. You just need to get maternity clothes."

"We went today." Ash said. "Should be ready by tomorrow. And not a moment too soon, all these senators are arriving and I'm sure they'd rather see the wife of the potential future Supreme Leader not wearing a flight suit and tank top."

Finn frowned. "There are a lot of senators wandering around today. Is Kylo Ren ready to meet them yet?"

Phasma glared now as Rey put her head down, groaning. "You really are good at bringing up the worst topics at not the best of times." Men truly didn't understand.

Ash forced a smile. "It's okay, Phasma." She said. "We're not sure about him just yet. However, Hux and Leia have a meeting with the newly arriving senators regardless."

"You don't have to attend these meetings, right?" Rey asked.

She shook her head almost a little too eagerly. "Thankfully, no. I'm just trying to stall having to go back inside. It's so nice out." Ash smirked. "Just don't tell my bodyguard that."

Phasma couldn't help but roll her eyes and grin. "We can stay out here for as long as you'd like, Ash. I'm don't always need to play the mean bodyguard role."

Ash beamed. "Thank the stars."

A hot shower felt amazing and Kylo Ren vowed to never take it for granted ever again. He changed into fresh, clean clothes and was scheduled on the first transporter off the Ascension and down to the planet with Luke. Brass saw to it personally to be the one to take him down. Even though Ren argued he could fly the damn ship himself, Brass was insistent. He also wanted an excuse to go down to Chandrila to see everyone, however, he'd keep that to himself.

As the ship landed in the designated unloading area, he was greeted by saluting troops of not just the Ascension, but also some Resistance ones as well. An amusing gesture, to say the least. However, it made sense considering he was also in the company of Luke Skywalker.

Surprisingly, and also not surprisingly, he was met by his mother, Hux, and the pilot. Leia wasted no time in hugging her son once he came close enough. "It's good to see you." She said softly.

With slight hesitance, he returned the gesture and hugged her back. "I didn't think I'd be given such a red-carpet welcome." He retorted as he looked at Hux before pulling away from his mother.

"I demanded to know the moment you were on the move again." Hux explained cheekily. "Brass was just following orders."

Ren looked back at Brass who was nonchalantly avoiding his gaze all together. With an annoyed eye roll and smirk of his own, he turned back to Hux. "I suppose I don't get a moment to breathe, now do I?"

"I was able to stall your initial meeting for a day. You're welcome, by the way." Hux grinned. "However, we have much to discuss before your mother and I must head to one of our debriefings." The group began walking towards the main building, Hux briefly explaining the area and about the kindness of Senator Varrek.

All that was well and good, however, Kylo Ren seemed almost preoccupied and for some strange reason, Poe Dameron was the only one who really noticed as the two were now walking side by side and behind the group. However, Poe had a good feeling as to why. And while he wanted to kick himself for being even remotely helpful to the man next to him, he knew in the long run, it would benefit Ashlyn too. "Listen, I get whatever happened on the Supremacy… it wasn't you." He mumbled under his breath so only Kylo Ren could hear him. "And I'm not stupid. I know where your head is right now." He nodded to the left, an empty passage the two could sneak down. "This way."

His brow quirked upward in amusement as he followed Poe, the two sneaking away from Hux, Brass and the two somewhat knowing Force sensitives that were walking. It wasn't until they were deeper within the senate building Hux turned to realize they were gone. "Where… The…?" Hux sighed defeatedly. "Did Ren kill the pilot and run off?"

Leia smiled knowingly. "You have a lot to learn, Armitage." She said fondly. "But, I think I know where my son went."

Luke snorted. "And here he told me she was the one to worry about."

Hux caught on as he let out an exasperated sigh before nodding towards the gardens. "Shall we go get him then?"

Ash's arms were extended forward as she soaked in the warm sun, enjoying the feeling as she sat with Rey on the cement bench. Phasma had removed herself from the bench to harass Finn just a little bit more, however, this time was all in good fun as he teased right back.

"When is Luke taking the stones from us?" She asked.

"He's leaving as soon as Ren is ready." Rey confirmed with a slight hesitancy on mentioning Kylo Ren. "I removed my stone from my saber, have you?"

Ash shook her head. "I will once he's ready for it. What happens after he hides them?"

"From what I understand, the Eye of the Sun will eventually recreate itself somewhere in the galaxy. He plans to hide these two far away from one another and keep an eye on them until further notice."

Ash frowned contemplatively. "So, he's going back into exile?"

"He said he's not needed here anymore." Rey explained sadly. "His time is over; a new dawn of Jedi will see its day."

"Oh right, you're leaving soon to begin your efforts in creating a safe haven for Force Sensitives." Ash then grinned mischievously. "With Finn."

Rey's cheeks burned bright red as the girls stared at Finn, whom was still messing around with Phasma. "Yes, with Finn."

"How's that going?" Ash asked.

"It's-" Rey hesitated with a smile. "Going."

"You don't sound sure." Ash teased.

"Would you fault me if I said I was nervous? I've never done anything like this before."

"It's only natural to be nervous." Ash reassured her. "I was a wreck when Ben and I started growing closer. I almost fainted from panicking when I had a vision about us kissing."

Rey laughed. "Seriously?"

Ash laughed with her. "I mean, I was so used to seeing visions of my loved ones dying that it really threw me off. Also, it was Kylo-freaking-Ren." Ash sighed somewhat fondly. "It's crazy how this all worked out in the end." Ash's smile dropped then as she bit her lip. "Is it selfish of me to say I don't want you to go? I know you're doing something wonderful for people like us, but… I'm going to miss you while you're gone."

Rey smiled, her arm wrapping around the red-haired girl's shoulders as she pulled her close. "I'll be back. I have to be for this little guy." She nodded to Ash's midsection.

"I know-" Ash smiled again, albeit a sad one. "I just feel like I'm running out of friends. You and Finn are leaving, Poe and Brass are always busy. It's like everyone is leaving me."

"Only for a little while." Rey assured her. "Even across the stars, we'll always be together somehow."

Ash leaned in to Rey just a little more. "Promise?"

"Promise." Rey smiled warmly. Both Force Users suddenly stiffened; a reaction that didn't seem to go unnoticed by Phasma and Finn as they stared at the girls. The curious thing was that they weren't even really sure what had made them this way. In fact, it wasn't until Poe Dameron rounded the corner into the garden that they realized who was with him. Rey blinked a few times, making sure she saw exactly what she was seeing. "Ash?" She said, looking to her left to see Ash was already on her feet.

In the distance, he stopped moving. The two staring at one another from across the garden, afraid to move. "I wasn't supposed to see her yet." Ren mentioned in passing to Poe. "I didn't know if we'd be ready for it or not."

Poe hadn't thought of it like that and frowned somewhat apologetically. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have-"

Ren shook his head. "Fuck it." He said. "Thank you, pilot." A term that, for once, held no malice, in fact, it was in good sport when he said it. Poe merely smiled as Kylo Ren began walking forward towards his wife. It took a few seconds for Ash to register that yes, that was Kylo Ren, he was actually here and he was walking forward. In fact, she couldn't find it in her to move until he was standing a good two feet in front of her before stopping again. Perhaps this was a bad idea and maybe Ren had overstepped his boundaries? He sighed, frustrated over being too eager. This was probably a really bad idea. She probably hated him for all the he had done; it only made sense that she would. "Starshine…" He began.

In a matter of seconds, Ash moved and closed the small gap between them. Before he could register her movements, her arms were around his neck and he was already holding her in his arms. Her legs wrapped around his waist as his arms securely fastened around her. She was kissing him; something he had wanted for what felt like an eternity. Something he didn't realize he had missed until she did it. Stars, he missed her. He missed her so much and she missed him. All that mattered then was the two of them, not anyone that was watching. Not the pilot, not the scavenger; nor the traitor, the Captain. The newly arrived Generals or the legend. None of them existed outside of the Grey and Dark Users. Not as far as they were concerned.

When their lips finally parted, he reluctantly put her down as they pulled away, but not by much. They stared at each other again, taking in the sight of one another before he really looked at her, frowning and yet smirking. "Is that my shirt?"

Ash laughed loud enough for everyone to hear as she wrapped her arms around his waist. "It's a long story." She explained as his arms wrapped around her.

Kylo Ren made it clear to Hux (as did Phasma when the ginger tried to protest) that he was not to be disturbed for the rest of the evening. He would begin all political debriefings in the morning, for now, he was going to spend much needed time with his wife. Which, most of that time consisted of the pair not leaving the bedroom until later in the evening. The two were cuddled up and tangled within sheets as Ash rested her head on his chest, listening to his heart beating. "So, that's why I had your shirt on." Ash explained with a laugh. "Phasma took me to a dressmaker today to get new outfits. I wasn't expecting it to happen so quickly."

Ren smiled, his hand tangling with her red locks as he idly played with strands of her hair. "I just thought you missed me that much you resorted to wearing my clothes." He teased.

Ash laughed. "I missed you, but I'm not that desperate. Perhaps if you took another week or two."

"I'm here now." Ren said. "And I don't plan on going anywhere."

Ash lifted her head to look at him. "You better not."

Kylo Ren rolled over then, he carefully positioned himself on top of her as his arms held him up. "I'm not." He insisted.

She smiled, leaning up and giving him a quick kiss. "Good." There were millions of things Ash wanted to say and ask him Yet, they all seemed to have a very similar structure as Ash found herself wanting to ask him if he was okay. As his wife, she should be concerned with how he was feeling and his steps in recovery. It only seemed natural. However, the more she thought about it, the more Kylo Ren began to pull back. It was a reminder, an awful one at that, as to what he had done. Sure, her intentions were noble, yet, it just brought back the worst of it.

He sighed, his head drooping slightly. "Can we not do this now?"

She frowned, unsure of what he had meant at first. "Do what now?"

"Or ever." He added, rolling off her and now sitting on his side of the bed. Ash forced herself up to look at him, feeling something overtaking him then. Something she hadn't really thought about until it happened. Guilt.

"Ben?" He removed himself from the bed completely then, wandering over to the closet to find a pair of black sleep pants and putting them on. This was why Luke had said not to rush into it. He was still undeniably guilty over his actions and it showed as he stomped out of the bedroom.

With a confused expression, Ash carefully got out of bed and put the baggy black shirt on before following him. If there was one thing Ash couldn't do, it was giving him space right now. They had had their space. Now it was time to talk.

He was at the balcony, leaning over it with his head in his hands. A mixture of so many negative emotions radiating from him as Ash walked closer to him. "I know a lot has happened in the past few weeks." Ash began, her voice soft as she felt tears begin to prick at the corners of her eyes. Stars, the hormonal change from being pregnant was obnoxious at times. "But, please don't shut me out like this. That's only going to make it worse."

"No-" He snapped, standing up straight before turning around. "What's making it worse is the fact that it's not something we can just forget." Ren's voice dark as he walked back into their apartment and passed her. He wandered to the couch, plopping down on it with an angsty thud. "I'm an irredeemable asshole. I almost killed you and our child. How the hell is that something you expect us to just talk out?"

"Then how else are we going to get passed it?" Ash was practically pleading. "I get it, it was an awful time, but we got through. We are still here. It's time to move forward from it-"

"At what point do you realize that I'm not good for you and I never will be?"

Now, the hormones were taking over as she flooded with a mixture of anger that Ren wasn't exactly prepared for. "Oh boo-fucking-hoo, Ren!" She snapped walking over to the couch to confront him; he was actually stunned by her sudden outburst. "I'm tired of this constant bullshit of you trying to protect me like I'm some fragile thing. I'm not. I've proven as much. And, in case you forgot, I'm your goddamn wife and-" She was crying then, angry and hormonal tears. "I can't stop crying; I cry over everything. This stupid pregnancy is making everything awful and I can't even talk to you about it and-" He was laughing now; an uncontrolled and somewhat nervous laugh escaping him as he realized the ultimate cause of the outburst, along with valid feelings. "Why the hell are you laughing?! I'm serious!"

"Because you're being ridiculous." He stated plainly; that feeling of missing her began gnawing at him. The undeniable regret of having not been able to enjoy the fact that his wife was pregnant. Now it was being hurled at him without much restraint. "Even more so than normal."

"I'm really not though." She said, wiping the tears that had fallen. "I'm not because outside of the hormonal pregnant rage, it's still not fair. It's not fair that you continue to choose what you think is right and wrong without even consulting me. I get it, everything's all kinds of fucked up and you're going to be extremely busy after tonight… but that doesn't mean we can't get passed this. I want to be there to help you along the way." Kylo Ren said nothing, instead he looked down, ignoring her intense stare. "Then just tell me you don't want me anymore. That you don't want us. If it's too hard for you, then just say it and I'll go." She gave him the choice. "I won't ask again, I'll stop fighting it. Just say it. Say that's what you want."

He couldn't. He couldn't even look at her. As much as he wanted her to be safe from him, he wanted her all the same to be there. He shut his eyes tightly, maybe she'd just disappear like a nightmare if he did. She didn't, that was a dumb thing to hope for. Instead, she came closer and kneeled in front of him, her soft hand touching his cheek.

Gently, she forced his head up, his eyes opening; he couldn't hide from her anymore. "We're not going anywhere unless you want us to." The concept of 'us' being foreign to Kylo Ren, it was still something he wasn't used to. It wasn't just her anymore… there was a child now. And stars, he wanted to come home. He wanted forgiveness, he wanted to let the past die. He just didn't know how. It wasn't going to be easy and yet Ash was willing to fight for it; to fight for him. Like he had always known, she was too good for him and it was time to start counting his blessings.

"How can you still want to forgive me after all of this?"

She laughed; an airy laugh with disbelief that he could even ask her that. "Because after all this time, I still want you and only you. From StarKiller to now, you're all I want. We're supposed to forgive each other, that's how relationships work. You weren't exactly thinking straight on the Supremacy and I know that. Now it's time for you to accept that."

A low and frustrated growl escaped his throat as he leaned forward aggressively, capturing her lips with his. He kissed her hard and hungrily, afraid to pull away from her for if he did, he'd try to run again.

She wasn't going to let him as her arms wrapped around his neck, holding him close. The same fear in her own mind as she kissed him back just as feverently. Kylo Ren didn't even care about the tears now streaming down his own cheeks as he pulled Ash closer, careful not to squeeze her too tightly. This was all he wanted; her. He had always wanted her.

Chaos. A different kind of chaos came over Chandrila as word spread of the arrival of Kylo Ren. Ashlyn was prepared for was the frequent disappearances of her husband as he was dragged to different meetings. She knew how important it was for him to be making appearances now. He had to win over the majority and he had to prove his purpose. It was a lot to ask of someone. However, before he left that morning, she swore to him that she'd be here when he came back. And when he did return, she'd give him a kiss and be by his side no matter what happened.

Slowly, the weight of his guilt was washing away. Whether it was due to the distractions of the day or the fact that his wife was his rock for all of it. Either way, he was grateful for her in so many ways. He could never thank her enough.

His first meeting hadn't gone the way he had hoped; or rather anyone had hoped. The overbearing fear that filled the room was nauseating at first. However, Ren kept his wits about him and delivered his introductions with a grace that clearly reminisced his mother. Who was more than proud of the man her son was becoming as he stood in front of the remaining Galactic Senate. He took their concerns to heart and met them with a passion that none of them had seen before. His plan was strong, his ideas equally as promising. Now, they needed to vote. A house majority vote that would take place in a weeks' time. Until then, Kylo Ren needed to do the one thing he absolutely hated. He needed to mingle. He was most certainly his mother's son.

If it weren't for Hux, he was almost convinced he'd quit then and there. Armitage was at his side through all of it, making introductions and connections. He was charming and he was supportive in all the ways he had to be then. Soon, Ren was seen in a different light. A struggle that would go on for the rest of his days, however, he could sense the change happening. Perhaps, this wasn't so hopeless after all.

"It's exhausting, isn't it?" Hux mused as the two walked slowly down the main hall of the senate building. The duo was taking a quick break to get some fresh air from all the chaos. "I believe your mother and I have set a good ground for you to walk on, you should have no trouble convincing them to join you. Assuming you leave that Kylo Ren charm behind." He teased, causing Ren to smirk. "How we ever got here is beyond me."

"It still amazes me." Ren confirmed. "I had hoped that this end would be a reality, at times I never thought it actually could be."

"And here we are." Hux agreed. "Your wife is driving Phasma crazy."

Ren chuckled. "Believe me, they're driving each other crazy. Ash was never one for being babysat."

"And Phasma does not care for babysitting." Hux waved his hand dismissively. "Besides, you need to talk to her. She's not supposed to be fixing things anymore. Phasma said she caught her and that horrid orange droid the other day in her closet, hiding so she could give him upgrades."

He wasn't the least bit surprised. "That… sounds like my wife alright. I came home last night to an upgraded toaster."

Hux gawked. "She's bored, Ren. What do you expect?"

"Yet she wants nothing to do with politics. Unfortunately, right now I can't really be with her as much as I'd like. And yet, she's still there every day when I get home, waiting for me. Supporting whatever it is I'm doing."

Hux nodded. "And you two are all right after what has happened?"

Ren frowned. "I almost killed them."

"Almost isn't the same as actually doing it." Hux explained. "You, of all people, should know that."

Kylo Ren groaned. "It's easier to deal with hungry politicians than it is her. She's too good for me and I'm reminded of that fact every time I see her."

Hux nodded. "She is too good for you."

If looks could kill, Ren's would have obliterated Hux. "I will demote you from being my second in command."

"What would you like me to say, Ren?" Hux asked. "Ashlyn is too good for you because she always forgives you. Even though you feel like you don't deserve it." Hux explained. "Personally, I think a lot of things you've done before this you didn't deserve any forgiveness. Yet, again, Ashlyn is a saint for putting up with you. The least you could do is take the extra step and learn to forgive yourself now."

He changed the subject then; the overall message was not lost on him however. "I have to win their vote this week."

"Two-thirds vote." Hux reminded him. "We best get back at it and try to win over as many political figures as possible."

"You believe it's still worth fighting for?"

Hux smiled warmly. "Ren, if I didn't, I wouldn't have been by your side through all of it." Perhaps, that glimmer of hope was just enough to convince him that things could work after all.

Ash was wearing one of her new maternity outfits, a somewhat long brown dress with a thin, white short-sleeved shawl over it. She was beginning to show now at eleven weeks, but not exactly noticeable to those who weren't in the know.

Her heart was heavy however, having said goodbye to Luke a few days prior. He took the stones from the Light and Grey User and like a ghost, he was gone. Now, she was watching as Rey and Finn were packing up their ship, ready for their next adventure. It truly felt like everyone was leaving her. At least, for now, she still had Poe by her side as they said their goodbye's.

"Don't look at me like that…" Rey begged, tears forming in her eyes as she looked at Ash. The two embracing tightly. "I told you I'd be back soon."

"I know-" Ash sighed, tearing up. "I know you did, but that doesn't mean I can't miss you." They reluctantly separated then. "Just be safe, okay? Check in whenever you can."

"I'll be back in time to meet him, don't worry." Rey promised. "Good luck to you and Ren." A sentence she never thought she would ever say. It still felt weird to say, but, she meant it.

"And to you and Finn." Ash said with a wink. Rey's cheeks burned as she looked at the dashing pilot next to her friend before hugging him too. The group said their goodbye's. A hard moment for all of them having gone through so much together. Yet, there was that promise of seeing each other soon. That promise that kept them going as Poe wrapped his arm around Ash's shoulders, the two waving as the starship took to the sky, leaving them on the flight deck alone.

"How are you holding up, First Order?" Poe asked her, rubbing her back gently.

"I'm okay." She answered. "Just sad and overwhelmed lately. There's so much going on. I thought it would be easier when the war was over."

"Not for the wife of a political leader."

Ash smiled. "He's not the leader yet."

"But he could be." Poe reminded her dutifully. "Tomorrow's the vote, right?"

Ash nodded; almost hesitantly. "I know he'll do well, I just hope they see what I see in him."

"I don't think any of us will ever see what you see in him." Poe teased, the two sharing a quick laugh as they began walking towards the main building. "But, I'm hearing good things from their meetings. People are starting to turn in his favor."

"Which is all I could hope for." She said.

"And how about that little guy." Poe asked. "How's he doing?"

Ash shrugged. "Eleven weeks. I'm still getting sick at weird times of the day. Oh, and there's the frequent emotional spikes where I'm happy and angry all at once. Poor Phasma, she has to deal with me the most lately." Poe laughed. "But, he's good. He's pretty strong with the Force. I can feel it in him already and the more he grows the stronger it gets."

"Is he going to be a Dark User or a Grey User like you?"

"No clue." Ash said truthfully. "Maybe he'll be light. I just hope whatever he is, he finds balance."

"Most parents hope for, you know, a healthy baby or that they'll grow up to be a doctor or something. You want balance." He teased.

Ash smirked. "Most parents aren't Force Users."

"True." He chuckled. "That is very, very true."

When Ash returned to the apartment later that night, she hadn't expected him to be there already. It was a welcomed surprise, however, she wanted to be there the moment he returned like she had promised. He was standing at their bookshelf, rearranging their books according to his liking when she wandered in. He was frowning contemplatively at the shelf.

Ash snorted. "This is so weird."

Now, he turned to look at her. Stars, she looked beautiful today. Well, she looked beautiful everyday according to him, but something about the way she was standing there made it even more apparent to him. The outfit, her red hair tamed in braids, the small bump forming at her midsection. Yeah, he could get used to this view. Yet, the amused expression on her face was somewhat troubling to him as he tried to read her. "What's weird?"

Ash shrugged, gesturing to everything. "All of this. Isn't this just the tiniest bit weird to you? How domestic all of this feels?"

Ren thought for a moment, looking around at everything before smirking. "You're right. It is weird." He agreed. "But, perhaps we're just not used to it considering all we've been through."

"When I said I'd be here for all your misadventures, I never imagined they'd involve organizing a bookshelf."

His brown quirked upward. "What did they include?"

"I had this weird idea that we'd always be on the run and that this war would never end." She answered truthfully before sitting on the couch. "I'm having trouble adjusting to normalcy."

Ren's lips formed a tight 'Oh' shape as he silently walked over to the couch, sitting next to his wife. "We are still so very far from a normal life, Starshine." He explained. "I'm currently trying to get over the whole nearly-killing-you thing, you're trying to adjust to being in a more permanent position considering your lack of stability the past year. We're just a whole bit of fucked up and tomorrow I might become the next Supreme Leader."

Ash scoffed. "You mean you will become the next Supreme Leader."

"So certain, dear wife?"

"I dreamt it." Ash admitted, looking at him now. "I've been dreaming it for a while now. However, it's finally reaching a path that makes sense for you. Without the stone, you're back to the person you were always meant to be."

"Your dreams have been wrong before." He suggested.

Ash shook her head. "They've come true in some capacity. Perhaps not exact, but they have. That's why I think this has some weight to it." She placed her hand on his thigh. "You're going to make a great Leader, Ben. I'm just sorry I can't be anything exciting with you."

He rolled his eyes in the most loving way possible before placing his hand on top of hers. "Starshine, your role is more important that you realize. You're my driving force, the only thing keeping me from going under. Without you, I'm nothing. It's always been that way. While the title of being my wife doesn't sound exciting, I can promise you I'll make it as exciting as possible for the rest of your life, so long as you'll have me."

She leaned over and kissing his cheek. "Then maybe living this domestic life won't be so bad."

"Not as long as I have you." She smiled that signature smile of hers that drove him absolutely crazy. Stars, if he was crazy enough to have any doubts, they were all gone now as he looked at her. The past year was something out of a storybook, it didn't seem real to him. How drastically things had changed from his original plan then to what happened now. How she turned his world unapologetically upside down and brought him to his knees without even knowing it. She was his world, his everything. And now, things were going to change even drastically come the following day. At least, the one constant in his life would be there to see it.

The next morning Ash stared at herself in the mirror for a long while contemplating her new attire. It was a long, blue dress that reminded her of Naboo for some reason. Perhaps the ornate designs that trailed down the front? She almost didn't recognize herself, even her wild red hair was tamed back into braids and wrapped within a golden headpiece. She looked like royalty, something that seemed so foreign to her considering her outfit was typically ripped and torn or a flight suit. The dress hugged her in all the right ways and showed off the small bump just enough to make people look twice had they not known. It all seemed so much, too much in fact and Ashlyn almost ripped the dress off. That was until he walked into the room adjusting his gloves. He stopped short, looking at her from the doorway and said only one word that made her not second guess as much. "Beautiful…"

She turned on her heels, looking at him with uncertainty. "It's not too much?"

"Not at all." He said; looking as handsome as ever in his typical black attire. Ren walked over to her, leaning down and kissing her reassuringly.

Ash smiled, accepting her fate as she asked. "Ready?"

He smirked, however before he could answer, there was a light knock on the door. "She's early." Ren made his way for the door.

Ash frowned curiously. "Who?" The answer to her question came when he opened the door to reveal General Organa as she entered. She was also dressed in a beautiful navy dress, less intricate than Ashlyn's, however it was perfect for an older woman who commanded a room as she did.

She smiled when she saw Ash walk into the room. "I hope you don't mind. I asked to accompany you to the senate today instead of Phasma."

"It's probably for the best you give poor Phasma a break." Ren quipped.

"I'm not that awful." Ash groaned slightly. "But, yes. It's a very welcomed changed to see someone different today."

Leia smiled knowingly. "We should leave, we will want to get good seats."

Ash looked back at her husband. "You're not coming yet?"

"Hux and I need to debrief beforehand." Ren explained simply.

"He also doesn't want you to see how nervous he is." Leia added, receiving a glare from her son.

Ash shook her head lovingly before hugging her husband. "You will be fine."

"Well, now I will be." Ren mused, kissing her quickly. "Go on, let me freak out in peace until Hux arrives."

Ash laughed, taking one last look at her husband before leaving their shared apartment with Leia.

"He's been doing well-" Leia explained thoughtfully as the two women walked towards the main chamber. "The change within him is something no one was truly prepared for within the remainder of the Senate. However, they've been willing to listen for the most part. A few bumps here and there. My son will have to learn to deal with an immovable object." Leia pursed her lips slightly. "I want to thank you, Ashlyn. Never in a million years did I expect something like this to happen. Not after the things he had done; between burning down Luke's Academy, joining the First Order; all of it. My son was gone forever. Then, the day he contacted me about you…" She smiled then. "He only made it here because of you."

Ash shook her head. "He's always been that person."

"While that may be true, sometimes the men-folk need that push in the right direction from a strong woman. Otherwise they never get any traction." Leia's tone was lighthearted as she smiled fondly, a memory coming to her. It seemed so long ago now. "When his Father and I were stationed on Hoth, Han had every intention of leaving the Rebellion and never looking back. After some stubborn convincing on my part, he stayed and became a hero of the Rebellion. If he didn't have that push, I'm certain things would have ended much differently." She smiled a little more then. "So, when I say my son has drastically changed because of you, I mean it. You were that push he needed."

"Do you think he's going to be voted for today?" Ash asked; if anyone had insight to the dealings of all political engagement, it was her mother-in-law.

"Some are still hesitant of him, understandably so. However, I do believe he's done all he can. It's up to them now. He'll be making a speech at the session today and then the voting will begin. Once the count is tallied, we will have our answer."

"So diplomatic."

Leia smirked. "Democracy is why we're here, is it not?"

It was strange, in some weird way, that after all that had been said and done democracy was the way he was going. She remembered a time that seemed so long ago when she and Ren were sitting in his apartment on StarKiller talking about how they'd change the galaxy. He seemed to be pointing towards a more dictator regime and yet, now looking at it, his views had changed towards democracy. A belief that Ash had once had. Perhaps Leia wasn't too far off in her belief that Ash really was that simple push that Kylo Ren had needed.

She smiled to herself as they entered the deceptively large senator hall. Her eyes going wide at the mass amounts of people that were still alive after the attack on the Hosnian system. Granted, there were tons of planets out there to be governed. She had a lot to learn on politics, she realized. "Just take a deep breath and don't let any politician persuade you into saying 'yes' or 'no' to any of their decrees." Leia muttered to her as the familiar Senator Varrek marched forward.

The very generous Senator of Chandrila was in quite the joyous of moods, the middle-aged man with slicked back dark hair that had a decent amount of white protruding through. "General Organa and Mrs. Solo, I am pleased to see you both could attend." He looked at Ash directly then. "How are you feeling today?"

Ash grimaced, she was really growing tired of people constantly asking how she was. Her firm belief of being able to take care of herself always seemed to shine through when that happened. "I'm fine, thank you. Nervous today, but fine."

"Nonsense, he will do just fine." Varrek assured her. "He has a strong woman standing behind him, of course he will be ready to take on anything."

Leia winked at Ash. "I told you, it's all about the strong women."

Varrek laughed with them. "As someone who admired the resigned Senator of Alderaan, I am so very inclined to agree. This young lady has lead such a strong political life, I wasn't too surprised when she came to me regarding her son." The tone of the room began to shift as Ash felt their moods change from pride to uncertainty; a mix of fear and yet hope. The one driving force of the Galaxy. Varrek seemed to notice the change as well, but from a different point of view. "It looks like we are starting soon. Ladies, it has been a pleasure and I will see you after."

Leia locked her arm with Ashlyn's, guiding her towards their seat that was seemingly out of the way of any objects that could be thrown. Leia quickly explained that incidents such as that were a normal occurrence as politicians were known to grow passionate about their causes. However, today, she assumed it would probably be somewhat tame as everyone would be on their best behavior thanks to her son. It was that mixed uncertainty that kept everyone in line.

However, now Ash was beginning to feel butterflies in her stomach as everyone took a seat and soon her husband, accompanied by Armitage Hux, entered the room. Maybe the butterflies were a mix of the growing force user acting up insider her or the fact that maybe she worried that this could end poorly. For once, she was praying it was the former.

Senator Varrek opened the floor with a quick speech about a positive shift in the Galactic Senate and that things would be changing for the better. He spoke of his firm beliefs that we had a chance at this future with the help of Kylo Ren and that the group would be wasting a great opportunity should they not vote for him. After his speech, the room clapped with either politeness of approval, Ash wasn't too sure.

"This is when Ben will go up." Leia whispered to her, keeping the girl up to speed on how these proceedings went. "He'll address the room and make his final statements. He will be open for questioning and if any senator has an inquiry, they will state so. Ben can choose to address any questions as he sees fit until his time runs out. After that, any other speakers may choose to come up and express their concerns or support."

Kylo Ren walked to the podium, his strong and confident demeanor was a given as he did. He didn't seem nervous to the crowd; however, Ash could sense otherwise as he stood there.

"Growing up, I did not really care for any political situations considering it was all I heard in my home as a child-" Senators actually chuckled at that. "And having grown up in such a politically influenced home; I came to realize earlier on that the system was broken. It had been for a very long time. Too easily corruption had found its way into the galactic governing powers due to greed, selfishness; and so on and so forth. Each attempt at creating a new power was giving a flawed concept of power and in doing so caused an imbalance between what was right and what was wrong. Too easily were those placed in power not able to keep the idea of order and structure. Too easily were they swayed to giving only those with the biggerpockets what they needed and forgetting planets that needed them most. Without a structure, without order, we assimilate into chaos-

Now, I know I have a reputation, one I fought so hard to keep. But, in that reputation I've learned so much from my commanding position. I've learned to see what happens when we lack order. The fear of creating another Empire is strong among all of you, it's strong within myself as well. Dictatorships and totalitarian extremes have failed and will continue to fail due to the strongest weapon the galaxy has; hope. It's within that hope; the rebels that want to see such a positive change for everyone, that we need to exact that change. I do not want to be a dictator; totalitarianism is not in my blood, nor will my wife allow it-" Another brief moment of chuckles, Ash couldn't hide her smile as she continued to be mesmerized by her husband.

"She is someone who made me see that democracy can work with the right people. People who believe in that change. People who believe in hope." He looked around the room. "All of us sitting here, those who remain after the war is over, we all fought for the same thing. We fought for a new future, a future I plan to bring along with you. A future that we, as a collective whole, can create but only if we take the galaxy as a whole and not just one piece. A system of checks and balances to keep each side in line; one that will seek to help and create a better galaxy for all of us." He paused. "I will take any questions now."

The moment his speech ended, hands raised immediately with different points of inquiries. Senators asking questions for in-depth insight on his plans. Questions in which Ren had been waiting for and answered as best he could. He wasn't trying to win them all, he knew he never would. However, if he could at least address their concerns and show he was trying, then maybe it would work.

It was a whirlwind as Ash sat there trying to take it all in. Uncertain if this was a good or bad thing when it came to so many questions. Leia sensed the slight distress from her daughter-in-law and gently took her hand within hers. "He's doing wonderfully." She reassured her. The room quieted then to a dull murmur as Senator Varrek addressed the room once more, announcing it was time for voting. Ash noticed at each seat there was a datapad in which each senator was able to cast their vote. The room turning to complete and utter silence.

'Hi-' She was looking towards the podium, where her husband still stood.

His eyes darting up towards her as a small smirk quirked on his lips. 'Hi'

'Pretty cool speech.'

She could practically hear the chuckle in his voice. 'Thank you. How are you enjoying yourself?'

'I've learned that politics are intense and that I really don't care for how quiet the voting process it.'

'You could always just peek into their minds-'

'Ben!'

'I'm kidding.'

'No you're not.'

'You're right, I'm not.' He said. 'But, it will be over soon.'

'Thank the stars…'

'I love you'

Ash felt her breath hitch in her throat at that; stars it never got old hearing it. She simply smiled, giving away to Leia that she had been mentally speaking with her son. Leia smiled warmly then, squeezing Ash's hand gently. "They're going to be announcing their decision."

Ash looked at Leia, her smile dropping then as she returned her attention to the podium where Senator Varrek now stood, Ren was now back at his seat by Hux. "The results are calculating." Senator Varrek said as he held his datapad. "At this time, I wish to thank all of you for your patience and cooperation."

"How do we know he won?" Ash asked.

"The vote results will appear on their datapads. Senator Varrek will also announce it." Leia explained.

"And there we have it-" Varrek began, capturing everyone's attention once more. "With just over the necessary vote count, our new Supreme Leader has been selected." He smiled brightly, looking at Kylo Ren. "Congratulations, Supreme Leader Ren."

Ash's eyes went wide as Leia squeezed her hand once more, the two looking at each other. Leia seemed overjoyed by the news, Ash was not exactly certain. She was happy for her husband; however, she knew what this meant. Everything was going to be changing. There was no way things could be simple. Not any longer. Ashlyn Solo could not lead a simple life after today.

Final Thought: Hopefully Ash can adjust to her new life... considering there's only one chapter left... I did promise fluff and you will get all the fluff. So... hang in there. One more chapter. Remember to review and see y'all next time